I protested and demonstrated

When I learned about the Farmers Branch illegal-immigration policy, I knew I wanted to protest. I wanted my voice to be heard at the Nov. 13 meeting at Farmers Branch City Hall. As I learned in Dr. Bach's government class, I have a right to protest, demonstrate and watch out for the future well-being of my family and friends.

Republicans from all over the nation are trying to pass anti-immigration laws. In Farmers Branch, city hall is trying to implement federal laws. Councilman Tim O'Hare proposed several ordinances – including English as the town's official language, fines for landlords who rent to illegal immigrants, and encouraging police to step up security in town.

When I arrived that night at city hall, police officers were scattered all around the front of the meeting room and in the staircase. They had riot gear, with transparent shields, batons and helmets with facemasks. They looked like they were ready for a terrorist attack. I never thought I would be considered a dangerous troublemaker!

Hundreds of people gathered in the city hall with American Flags and banners with quotes from the Bible. Among these were groups such as MALDEF (Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund) and LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens). Local leaders like Raphael Anchia, Roberto Alonzo, Carlos Quintanilla, Domingo Garcia and Luis de la Garza were present and protesting as well. I was astonished to see so many Hispanics united by common purpose.

Not so conveniently, police officers guarding the doors only let in the first few people – which happened to be all the groups with the anti-immigration law T-shirts and signs. I was outraged. Only a few Hispanics were let in, making the debate in the City Council chamber quite one-sided. I believe this violates the First Amendment!

Frustrated, I left and joined many other protesters waving American flags and peace signs outside city hall. That night, the council voted 6-0 to pass these anti-immigration laws.

Because Farmers Branch council members refused to talk to Elizabeth Villafranca, who is part of LULAC, that organization decided to file a lawsuit against the new city ordinances.

These ordinances will affect people, government and commerce – including the school district and local businesses. Farmers Branch is nearly 40 percent Hispanic. It is home to over 80 Hispanic corporate headquarters and 2,600 Hispanic small and midsize firms. The city council created fear among the non-Anglo population, who now feel insecure living and/or working in Farmers Branch.

No doubt, illegals should not be here. But these ordinances are unfair to those who already have arrived. What would Farmers Branch businesses, the Metroplex, or Texas do without them? Texas could not survive economically. Our elected officials will have to find a solution that takes all interests into account and minimizes conflict.

— Adriana Davidson is a student in Dr. Gabriel Bach's government class.