Protesters in Asheville march against immigration policies, showcasing their unity and determination.
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Asheville witnessed thousands gather in solidarity against President Trump’s immigration policies on February 8, 2025. This outpouring of support highlights growing concerns about recent executive orders and actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Organizers Karen and Victor Quebrado Perez are building a movement to amplify the Latino community’s voice, drawing parallels to the national ‘Day Without Immigrants’ protest. As both grassroots efforts and protests continue, Asheville’s community spirit remains resilient amid political challenges.
Asheville was buzzing on Saturday, February 8, 2025, as hundreds of demonstrators filled the streets to voice their discontent with President Trump’s immigration policies. This was just the second demonstration in less than a week, signaling a growing wave of concern among locals about recent immigration measures.
As the protest kicked off around 3:30 p.m., the Asheville Police Department (APD) braced for heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic. By the time the sun began to set, the Montford Street bridge found itself closed due to the swelling crowd. It wasn’t until 6 p.m. that those nearby were relieved to see traffic returning to its usual pace.
The previous protest just days earlier, on February 3, also drew a large turnout of over 300 participants. These dedicated individuals stood together, expressing their concerns regarding not only Trump’s immigration policies but also the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
At the heart of this movement are siblings Karen and Victor Quebrado Perez, who took the reins in organizing these protests, aiming to shine a light on the critical role of the Latino community in America. Their ambitious vision doesn’t stop at protests; they plan to establish a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the Latino community.
The protests were part of a nationwide event called Day Without Immigrants, which spread to cities like Los Angeles and Phoenix. Protesters carried signs that made strong statements. Messages such as “We the immigrants make America great” and “Migration is not a crime” echoed through the streets, giving voice to the fears and frustrations of many.
The chants, songs, and passionate expressions from attendees were palpable. Families shared their worries about the potential for separation, particularly as immigration arrests continue to rise. Many of those in attendance had called the U.S. home for years and found themselves confronting the alarming stigma of being labeled as criminals for merely seeking a better life for themselves and their families.
This wave of protests has been fueled by a recent executive order signed by Trump, which aims to end birthright citizenship effective February 19. Shockingly, attorney generals from 22 states have responded by filing lawsuits to stop the controversial order from taking effect, showing that the situation is much larger than just the voices heard in Asheville.
The protest saw significant participation from young people, many of whom joined in solidarity with friends and family members unable to attend. They waved their signs and stood together, emphasizing the community spirit that permeated the event.
As the dust settles on recent protests, the organizers are already planning their next steps. They aim to keep the momentum going and build a lasting foundation for the Latino community in Asheville. The grassroots movement speaks to the resilient spirit of the people in this vibrant city.
It’s worth noting that the APD mentioned that no permit was filed for the February 3 protest. While supporting the right to free speech, they did remind the public that blocking streets and potential trespassing could lead to legal consequences. Nonetheless, this did not deter demonstrators, who were motivated to unite for the cause they believe in.
As Asheville continues to evolve and adapt to the changing political landscape, the voices of its citizens are sure to remain loud and clear. With ongoing discussions and future demonstrations on the horizon, the city stands as a beacon of activism and community solidarity.
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