Ogden protesters rallied to honor Renee Good and advocate for immigration reform, emphasizing community engagement and awareness.
In a powerful display of community solidarity, dozens of protesters gathered on a chilly Thursday evening at a busy intersection in Ogden, Utah, to raise awareness about recent incidents involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This event, organized by Ogden Indivisible and the Weber County League of Women Voters, was sparked by the tragic death of Renee Good, a mother from Minneapolis, who was shot by an ICE agent earlier that week. The protesters aimed not only to honor Good's memory but also to advocate for policy changes and to provide resources for local residents affected by immigration issues.
The protest, dubbed the "ICE Out for Good" rally, emerged from a social media post that rapidly gained traction, drawing a diverse crowd determined to make their voices heard. Despite the frigid temperatures, the turnout was significant, highlighting the community's commitment to advocating for change. Many attendees expressed their deep concern over the implications of the ICE incident and the need for greater awareness and activism around immigration policies.
Kitty, a resident of Ogden and one of the organizers, emphasized the importance of spreading awareness about issues that often go unnoticed. "I talk to so many people who have no idea about what is happening. So, we need to raise awareness," she stated. The rally served as a platform not only for chanting and marching but also for sharing valuable resources that could empower individuals within the community.
Among the materials distributed were postcards for attendees to write to their local representatives, as well as flyers from 5 Calls, a national initiative that helps citizens connect with their lawmakers about state-level issues. "We talk to lawmakers every day," said Peggy Kluthe, another member of Indivisible Ogden. "I think most of the people in our senators' and representatives' offices recognize my number. So that is part of it." This proactive approach aims to encourage community members to engage in the political process and voice their concerns regarding immigration enforcement and other pressing issues.
Participants in the protest also received ICE whistles, designed to alert the community in case of ICE activity in the area. This initiative aims to create a network of informed and prepared citizens who can respond quickly to protect vulnerable community members. The organizers stressed that their goal was not just to protest but to foster an environment of support and action, empowering individuals to stand up against policies they view as unjust.
The sentiment among attendees was clear: collective action is crucial for enacting real change. Many protesters noted the importance of making such events accessible to everyone, regardless of their location or circumstances. "We need to start expanding to these little places so that normal people can come. It’s hard for me to get to Salt Lake; it’s even hard for me to get to downtown Ogden," Kitty remarked, highlighting the need for localized activism that resonates with everyday citizens.
Mike Sims, another participant, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the power of voting and community engagement in driving change. "We are building bridges to reach voters who want to make a difference. There is a wave coming, and we expect that to be shown in the upcoming elections," he stated, underscoring the importance of mobilizing the electorate ahead of critical local and national votes.
The Ogden protest is just one part of a larger movement advocating for immigration reform and community awareness. Following the success of the rally, more "ICE Out for Good" protests are scheduled across Utah, including an event on Saturday at Washington Square Park in Salt Lake City starting at 11 a.m., and another at Provo City Hall at noon. These upcoming events aim to continue the momentum generated in Ogden and encourage further community involvement in addressing immigration-related issues.
As the movement gains traction, local leaders and activists remain hopeful that their efforts will lead to meaningful discussions and, ultimately, policy changes that promote justice and equity for all residents. The tragic death of Renee Good has become a rallying cry for activists, serving as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform in immigration practices and the importance of community solidarity in the face of adversity. The Ogden protest stands as a testament to the power of collective action, inspiring individuals to advocate for a more just and compassionate society, one voice at a time.