By Gordon Anderson | gordon@rantnc.com
A large crowd of mostly young people demonstrated in support of immigration rights in Sanford on Monday night, with estimates ranging from 100 to as many as 250 people in attendance.
The crowd stood along the sidewalk on Main Street near the intersection with South Horner Boulevard, holding signs and flags and cheering loudly when passing motorists signaled support by honking their horns or revving their engines. The event came together in less than 24 hours, largely based off a social media post by Allan Morales, a junior at Lee County High School.
“I posted (to Instagram on Monday) because it was the Day Without Immigrants, and I just wanted to get out and protest,” explained Morales, who was raised in Sanford. “I wasn’t really sure if anyone would show up, but I just wanted to do it to get the message out, that we came here for a better life, and to deport us is really just the same trouble we tried to escape.”
People showed up – more people than Morales ever expected.
Fernando De Paz, another Sanford native, is a soccer coach at Southern Lee High School, and saw Morales’ Instagram post on Monday.
“I saw (Morales’) post and I thought ‘I’m just like him, I grew up in Sanford and I’ve lived here my whole life, I’m just older,’ so I shared it,” De Paz said.
Both Morales and De Paz – who didn’t know each other before Monday’s gathering – were surprised not just with the crowd size, but the positive vibe.
“I just wanted to keep it peaceful and keep it positive,” Morales said. “There was some negativity from some people, but we just booed and they left.”
“It was a great vibe the whole time,” De Paz added. “The police showed up, and they just made sure we were safe.”
The event even attracted attention from others who advocate within Lee County’s immigrant community. Yanira Scott is the executive director of El Refugio, a Sanford-based nonprofit that works to build bridges between new immigrants and established communities. El Refugio was not involved in the demonstration.
“Last night’s gathering was a reminder that this is a community issue – not just a national one,” Scott said. “It showed that the young people of Lee County are paying attention, that they care, and that they are asking us all to do the same. And what’s even more powerful is that these young people are so American at their core – they believe deeply in American ideals, including the right to freedom of expression and the courage to stand up against injustice. They stood together because they believe in what this country is supposed to represent, and they reminded us all that speaking out against what we feel is wrong is not only a right – it’s an American responsibility.”
Morales said his parents only learned about his social media post when he got home Monday night.
“I got home and they told me they were proud of me,” he said. “They said ‘this could have gone a different way, but we’re proud that it didn’t.’ I just want to keep people informed and for the government to see what we’re willing to do to stay in this country.”
Morales said in the wake of the event, the feedback he’s gotten has remained largely positive.
“Everybody wants it to happen again,” he said. “People are proud that Sanford stood up for our community and for all other communities.”
Plans for more demonstrations have been discussed, and while nothing is set in stone yet, both Morales and De Paz say the issue itself isn’t going anywhere.
“If immigrants are here with a criminal history or are committing crimes, I’m all for (deporting those people),” De Paz said. “But I think there’s a lack of understanding and a lack of empathy for the people who are just here to work hard. If people have another opinion, it’s okay to voice that. Sometimes you have to be the bigger person and let people talk. But people are scared, good people are scared. And it’s understandable because of what they’re seeing. (The immigrant community) is a strong backbone for Sanford, and for America.”
Scott said she hopes the broader community will pay closer attention to what the young people who put together Monday’s demonstration are saying.
“Last night, young people in Lee County asked us to look beyond national news, to see the real people behind the policies, and to remember that community means standing together – not just in good times, but in difficult ones too,” she said.
Very proud of the younger people of Sanford for standing up!!!
Yes.stand up to oppression
My main take on this…if you wanted to come here, make a life here, work and contribute here…in the USA…why do I not see one American flag being held by anyone? You left a country that didn’t afford you the opportunities that the US has…yet you haven’t tried to register and stay here – legally. And you’re still flying your former country’s flag and not the US flag??
No other country (that I know of) allows you to go, stay, work and live there as a “citizen” unless you’ve filed to legally become one. That’s the law of our constitution! That’s all I, personally, would ask of anyone. And if you do that, and you make a honest living…GREAT!
My ancestors came from England, Germany, Ireland and Africa. But, I don’t fly any of those flags over the USA flag. Why? Because these ancestors came and registered legally and this…is where they chose to make their home.
All that’s being asked…follow the laws and register legally.
Alright,
American identity ain’t just a flag: Just ‘cause someone doesn’t flaunt the U.S. flag all day don’t mean they’re not putting in work for this country. Their flag ain’t a slap in the face to America, it’s a reminder of where they come from, the battles they fought to get here. If you think that’s disrespect, you need to check yourself. They’re carrying their history with pride, not throwing shade
Immigration’s a maze: You think it’s just about filling out some paperwork? Nah. The process to become a citizen is long, expensive, and full of roadblocks. People aren’t out here just ignoring the law—they’re stuck in a system that’s slow as hell. They’re trying to get it right, but it’s on the government to make it easier, not them.
This country’s built on immigrants: America ain’t just one culture. It’s a blend of different stories, struggles, and people coming together. So, if you’re out here saying people gotta ditch their roots to be American, you’re just exposing your ignorance. We’re not some cookie-cutter country; we’re stronger because of our differences.
The law’s broken: You want people to respect the law? Fine, but don’t act like the immigration system ain’t messed up. People are trying to do the right thing, but it’s stacked against them. Instead of sitting on your high horse judging, maybe use that energy to fight for better reform that actually lets people contribute the right way.
Flying your old flag ain’t disrespect—it’s showing you haven’t forgotten where you come from while building a future here. So next time you wanna come at someone for not fitting your narrow view of “American,” maybe do a little more thinking and a lot less talking.
I agree with an easier system. I know this system as I’ve worked with those coming here to get legal status. No high horse anywhere.
What about when Pres. Obama “supposedly” set something up making it easier to sign up. Many didn’t. Why? I spoke with many who said they were afraid it was just a ploy to get their names/info – to find out who was here legally. OK…but they were given a chance – a free ($) chance. And yes, I’m hoping that happens again.
But for now, those here illegally, committing crimes, should be deported. That’s the main idea/phase, at this time. I’m hoping the follow-up for those here peacefully, will be easier and I know many who feel the same.
But again…reminder that those that left their former countries should embrace their new home more. That’s why they came here. I follow some old traditions my ancestors brought over…many do! But the US is now our/my home. If anything, carry both flags. Show support for both. And following our constitution/laws… keeps a country safer, stronger, and more cohesive. Take care!
Yes immigrants built America, it was built and closed made it a lawful entry country.This is a fact and not an opinion.I have a lot of Hispanic friends and I surely do not want to see any of them deported. However if you think standing by the road holding up Mexican flags send the right message in this political climate you’re a fool -Just invited ICE to Sanford by the one idiot standing with a MAGA sign being disrespectful. Maybe heed some advice and lessen your chances if you’re here illegally fly red,white and blue
When you come to this country you do it legally! You also ditch your roots, give up coronas, cinco de mayo, and all the other nonsense from other counties, and you celebrate the 4th of July, and assimilate into the American culture, not continue with yours. We also speak English, and nothing else. If you want to jabber in your apartment with your native language, ok, but we speak and write in English. Yes this country was mostly built on immigrants, but you are not one of those. You are invaders and illegal. Our ancestors that immigrated here came in LEGALLY! They followed the rules, which are supposed to be difficult and time consuming. You either agree or get the Hell out of the country!!!!!!!
So you will say the same thing come March when I wave the REAL Irish flag?ya know, not the British one?
Yes it’s your heritage? what’d you think this snark comment would do?
I’m not sure that STEALING land from NATIVE Americans should be considered legal.
What land has not been stolen? My country of birth Mexico has been stolen from the original people and many tribes were slaughtered by other stronger tribes to take/steal the land long before the Europeans arrived. The same happened in the US and everywhere. That’s how we got here. Human history is ugly, but to throw the “stolen land” line to justify breaking the law of a “broken system” is ludicrous. Politicians, namely Democrats, have weakened the immigration laws for political expediency. Promising to make it easier for Hispanics in exchange for their vote. Look what it has done, nothing but heartache. The law has not changed and it is not broken, it is the same and millions are waiting to get their green cards as the law requires. Is it fair to them that immigrants that broke the law get legalized without following the law? If there is anyone to blame for the mess the families and children of illegal immigrants are facing it is the Democrats and the parents who decided to roll the dice and break the law. It may sound heartless, but it is not meant to be that. It’s life and the price we pay for not doing things as we should. My ex-wife had to return to Mexico for a time while her application was processed and had to pay a fee with no guarantee that she would be accepted. Me and my 4 children stayed in the US praying she would be allowed to come back. We accepted the terms and paid the price.
I agree totally .learn the language and do what the law requires to be a United States citizen.laws are here for a reason.
I appreciate you being open to discussion. I just wanted to clarify a few points for you, as you seem reasonable:
1. The program you mentioned from Obama was DACA. Not all undocumented immigrants were eligible–only those that were brought here as children.
2. Many undocumented immigrants here now did in fact come through a legal process. Asylum seeking is a legal form of entry. Some did intentionally miss their court dates, though, out of fear of their asylum not being accepted and having to return to their home country. I have personally met immigrants that were fleeing political persecution, where return would mean death, and the courts have not been too kind to them. Can you blame them for traveling to try to save their family? I can’t, personally.
3. The current legal process, besides either marriage or through a job (and the jobs are exceptionally rare), require you to stay in your country for close to a decade. These people are fleeing because they can’t spend a decade in their country. If you hear of their tales crossing the border, you will understand it’s not a decision they take lightly. I also had family immigrate here legally, but that was YEARS ago. The process is much different now.
You sound empathetic. I hope you can see what I’m saying with an open heart. Many of the people here are hard worker, family oriented individuals that are statistically less likely to commit crime than our own citizens. I don’t think deportation is the answer–we need to come up with a pathway to help them.
There has always been a way. We just chose to be like Frank Sinatra and do it our way. It hardly works out. Again, Dems promise the moon and stars in exchange for the Hispanic and black vote. They promise programs like DACA but never see it through. Like Biden told Charlamagne when he told Biden that he should come to the studio in New York City for another interview, because “we’ve got more questions.” Biden said, ‘If you have a problem figuring out whether you’re for me (Democrats) or Trump (Republicans), then you ain’t black (Hispanic)’ We have become the Dems’ pawns. I used to think I was a Dem because I’m Hispanic, but learned fast and never turned back.
Perfectly said. I have nothing to add.
Authoritarian regimes set up straw boogie men as a political target. The Nazis are most famous for it but they were hardly the first. The purpose here is to set middle and lower middle white Americans against illegal immigrants with the specious claim that they are taking white people’s jobs or poor peoples jobs or that they consume services without contribution. Actually illegal immigrants are gold mine for many companies and in many communities they underpin the home rental markets, used car markets, and small grocer and convenience stores. Some do commit crimes, but not nearly at the rate of white natives.
Take them out of the US and you will get a big inflation spike across several sectors of the economy, especially food. The US birthrate is already below replacement rate with the exception of recently immigrated women. That means less demand for all things as time goes on. That’s already showing up in home values in rural America and with empty main streets in rural America.
As far as national displays I have my Welsh and Scottish flag and will not fly the British Butchers Apron. Octoberfest, Columbus Day, Chinatowns, Japan Towns, Little Mexicos, St. Patricks Day, and Maple Syrup in general don’t bother me and being an American is not about waving a flag. Being an American is about standing up for what is right and good at home and abroad. Being an American is state of mind not simply an accident of birth.
If you are an illegal, you need to go! Liberals will never understand the difference between legal and illegal status. I don’t care what you look like but you need to knock and ask permission to enter.
If you are not NATIVE American, then your ancestors weren’t here legally either. Maybe you need to be deported.
Are you “native”? If so, what tribe? What is your language and can you speak it? Why are you wearing Western clothing and not you tribal garb? Should you be deported?
If you want to play the “legal vs illegal” card, let’s talk about your president.
The 34 felonies he’s convicted of were ILLEGAL.
In the 2 weeks he’s been in office, he’s issued dozens of ILLEGAL executive orders.
He has an ILLEGAL immigrant acting as co-President pulling his strings, in Elon Musk.
And those are just a few of the ILLEGAL things he’s done in full view.
And it doesn’t even venture into the legal issues related to shipping immigrants off to Gitmo.
Just Saying.
YES! Mic drop! Unfortunately the ignorant followers will never agree even though it’s very clear.
Your CNN+ rant is an non sequitur. That doesn’t change the fact that imposing your presence without permission is illegal.
@Jack65 – I am native Cherokee and often visit the family graveyard where my ancestors were dumped after being hanged. Thank you for reminding me of such a terrible tragedy.
You’re welcome. You probably don’t know this, but the Cherokee displaced the Muscogee Creek in the 1720s and the Cherokee and Chickasaw forced the Shawnee north of the Ohio River around 1710 effectively “stealing” their land and slaughtering them. Never forget.
Thank god the illegals are getting deported. 👍
Some of y’all need to be worried about meeting your maker. Straight from the bible:
Leviticus 19:33-34: “When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress him. But the stranger who resides with you shall be to you like someone native-born among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.”.
What am I thinking? You aint concerned with, or know the bible, you voted for trump.
The verse is taken out of context. This is referring to the mistreatment of Jews coming to Israel from other countries by Israeli born Jews. In today’s context, it is telling us to treat our Christian brothers “like someone native-born among you” and has nothing to do with illegal immigration. Romans 13, on the other hand, deals with the law. Check it out… 1 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
What we are talking about here is illegal immigration. The U.S. has laws surrounding this, and thus this the focus. Why are we allowing individuals to disrespect the U.S. by not following our laws.
The mass number of illegal immigrants crossing the border is actually a passive invasion of our Country that is out of control, we must reign this in.
I understand these immigrants are being oppressed in their native countries but not by the U.S. Their oppression is due to a broken legal system in their native country. The U.S. as a sovereign country is only trying to enforce its legal rights.
There are many people from European countries that would like to immigrate here but can’t because illegal immigrants have taken the opportunity away from them. Why should immigration laws apply to them but not Mexico?
I’m sorry, but life is difficult. However, if these immigrants would work hard enough, obey the law, they could get their citizenship, it’ll just take some time.
I’m curious, would these immigrants be willing to defend the U.S. to earn the right to citizenship? Would U.S. citizen’s support this idea?
Why are we allowing the world’s richest DEI hire to disrespect the US and break our laws? A citizen that was not elected to any office, taking over the Department of the Treasury and cutting off trillions of dollars in funding is a FAR greater threat to our country and sovereignty than a “passive invasion” of hard working people trying to make a better life for their families.
Please elaborate. Your post is incoherent.
Evil hides best behind religion. When you hear people spouting cruelty no matter their clothing, no matter how fancy their car, no matter their intellect, you are hearing the voice of evil. Remember those voices.
Can’t take the words of an imaginary pagan wizard seriously, unless you’re Utopian.
Round em up, ship them all back home. ASAP!
You fly Mexican flag..If you are so proud of that sewer of filth you came from, why come here? That speaks for itseelf!
But flying a loser Confederate flag is “heritage.” Okay, buddy.
What kind of low IQ simple simon moron thinks the confederate flag has anything to do with the issue at hand?? If you try to pretend to be an intellectual with something to say, at least try to stay on the subject matter at hand..These illegal immigrants bleed this nation of all the resources they can.. They think they are entitled to be here unlawfully and entitled to benefits without paying the dues that lawful legal citizens have paid and earned their way, century after century..If you live here, RESPECT the flag..If they are so in love with the filth THEY RAN AWAY FROM, don’t fly that flag..The only ones in question are not legal, but here unawfully..If you want to defend them, then go live where they came from and show some balls..Then come back with your tail between your legs and RUN away from the same thing they did..Yet, for some delusional idiotic reason, they think the sewer of crap they fled from, should also be defended..Nonsense —-
Legal immigrants are welcome once they prove their respect by doing it the lawful way..The others who are not here lawfully, should not be protected by idiots who think protests protecting them, is sane logic..The USA wants the unlawful ones gone..If those who protest do not like it, go back to that sewer with the unlawful ones, and do more than babble cowardly talk..LIVE where they came from..LIVE where you are so proud of it that you fly their flag..Talk is cheap..Go back where they can make a real difference and prove it, without the safety of this nation they are hiding in..Protestors are cowards who run their mouths, yet fail to act on what is NEEDED to make a real difference…When I the writer of these comments protested the ill treatment and contempt other living creatures get from humans, I did something about it..I adopted and saved almost 300 in my lifetime..I DID NOT protest and jack my jaws pretending to be doing something wonderful like protestors do, while hiding away from the issues —-