Protest Against Immigration Enforcement Agencies Draws Large Crowd in St. Albans
In St. Albans, a coalition of faith-based organizations and local advocacy groups gathered over 250 participants to protest the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These agencies have been significantly involved in the detention of immigrants in Vermont and across the United States.
Initially, organizers aimed to conclude the event with a sit-in involving 50 trained activists outside the CBP building; however, upon discovering that the office was closed for the day, the group opted to voice their demands in front of the building, celebrating this modification as a partial success.
Paul Markowitz, one of the protest organizers, addressed the crowd, proclaiming their objective of disrupting the status quo. “Did we succeed?” he asked, to which the enthusiastic crowd responded with a loud, affirmative shout.
Musical Performances and Somber Remembrance
The main protest, held in Taylor Park, oscillated between a festive atmosphere with brass bands and singers, and poignant moments as the names of individuals who died in ICE custody were solemnly read aloud. The presence of musicians, including the renowned Bread and Puppet Theater, added to the vibrance of the rally.
At the periphery of the park, a small group of counter-protesters attempted to disrupt the proceedings by blasting loud music from their vehicles, responding to the activists’ silent tribute.
One counter-protester, Ryan LaRose from Franklin, publicly declared his support for ICE, expressing his intent to disturb the ongoing protest. In contrast, the main protesters highlighted their mission to defend immigrant rights during the rally.
Faith Leaders Advocate for Immigrant Rights
Pastor Jessica Moore from the First Congregational Church of St. Albans addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance placed on the treatment of immigrants within many faith traditions. The event held significant meaning just weeks after a controversial ICE raid in South Burlington, which led to three detentions following a prolonged standoff between law enforcement and protesters.
In a dialogue with ICE and CBP officials prior to the protest, the organizers communicated a series of demands directed at the agencies, condemning practices like racial profiling. They also called for heightened transparency, urging officials to display visible identification and cease wearing face coverings during enforcement actions.
Community Mobilization and Future Actions
Earlier this year, the Vermont Legislature considered legislation aimed at disclosing the identities of federal immigration agents, but the bill ultimately failed to advance. Following this wave of activism, the newly formed “ICE Out Vermont Alliance” expressed commitment to continue their efforts against ICE and CBP.
Event organizer Ginny Sassaman from Calais framed the protest as just the beginning of a long-term campaign. “This is a long battle,” she stated confidently, acknowledging that while immediate changes may not be apparent, sustained effort and visibility are essential for driving real transformation.
The protest underscored a growing desire among community members to address and reform immigration enforcement practices, emphasizing the protection of immigrant rights as a vital aspect of social justice.
