Immigration: Protests and Politics

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The LAPD says there were 200,000 people on the streets of Los Angeles Saturday afternoon, and the LA Times reports 500,000. Organizers claim that more than a million turned out. Picking up where they left off Friday, some 15, 000 high school kids cut classes today and took to the streets of LA. The protests are targeting so-called "immigration reforms" being considered today in the US Senate, including provisions to criminalize undocumented workers and the people who knowingly help them. In a backlash against this polarized political atmosphere, Republican Congressional candidate Howard Kaloogian today accused what he called liberal political leaders of promoting illegal immigration. We get an update, hear how organizers brought out the crowds, and learn what it could mean to the race for Governor in November.
  • Making News: Thousands of Students Protest Immigration Bill
    As the Senate took up controversial immigration proposals, almost 15,000 kids skipped classes today and took to the streets in the San Fernando Valley and LA's Westside. Some students walked out on the 110 and 101 freeways, Mayor Villagraigosa met with another group at City Hall, as walkouts occurred in San Diego and Orange Counties and other places throughout California--and around the country. We get an update from LA Times reporter Joel Rubin and Garfield High sophomore Miguel Lopez who took part in today's demonstrations.

Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005 (HR 4437)

Los Angeles Times editorial on immigration protests

Congressional candidateHoward Kaloogian on illegal immigration

Credits

Host:

Warren Olney

Producer:

Frances Anderton