FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-



March/Protest Against Costa Mesa's Decision to Deputize Police Officers

COSTA MESA, CA - On Friday, December 23, concerned citizens throughout Orange County will converge upon the Costa Mesa Police Department in protest of the City Council's decision to train city police to enforce immigration law. The measure was approved by the council on December 7, 2005. Costa Mesa will be the first United States city to merge police and immigration duties.

This measure raises concern among Mexicans, Central Americans, and other so-called Latinos. People with brown skin will be subject to racial profiling, based on appearance and surname. The measure will also erode relations between immigrants and police, as immigrants will fear reporting crimes. Furthermore, vigilantism may increase, as residents may attack and harass people that they perceive to be "illegal."

Police officers are not border patrol agents! All are invited to demand the repeal of the City Council's decision and prevent racial profiling and unfair attacks on Latinos in Costa Mesa.

WHEN: Friday, December 23, 2005

TIME/WHERE: March begins at 3PM at the corner of Bristol and Sunflower, near South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa

Protest begins at 4:30 PM at the Costa Mesa Police Department located at 33 Fair Drive

For more information, e-mail matlazinka@hotmail.com

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