Witness Wednesdays

Fifteen hundred residents of Massachusetts were kidnapped by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in May; half of whom have no criminal record. The Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office maintains an Intergovernmental Service Agreement (IGSA) with ICE to jail ICE detainees–the only one in the Commonwealth. Massachusetts should not participate in federal mass deportations. We can’t stop ICE, but we can shine a spotlight on the Plymouth County Sheriff’s office imprisonment of our neighbors, who are not criminals, and their complicity in federal removal operations. 

The Massachusetts Constitution guarantees equal protection under all laws to all people, regardless of nationality, citizenship, or immigration status. When due process is denied to any group, it weakens the rule of law for all of us. The League of Women Voters supports due process for all persons, including the right to a fair hearing, the right to counsel, the right of appeal, and the right to humane treatment, and that no person or group should suffer legal discrimination. 

Safety Note

This is a heavy traffic intersection. We will follow safety protocols to avoid blocking street traffic. Review LWV peaceful protest guidance HERE. We will only be gathering along the sidewalk and grassy areas near the main intersection. 

Logistics

Signs: We will have due process rights signs available. You are welcome to bring your own signs focusing on policies and not people. 

Messaging: Due to our nonpartisan policy and to ensure a coordinated effort, we ask that all signs focus on issues related to supporting or advocating for immigrant communities and focus on due process or immigration policies.

Parking is available at the Home Depot parking lot or the shopping plazas off of Long Pond Road in Plymouth. Please do not park at the Sheriff’s office or police station. Amenities are available at the Shell Gas Station and Alltown Fresh Gas Station, both on Long Pond Road. Questions? Contact lwvma@lwvma.org.