All of That After Arizona

The crowd for the May 1 march for immigration reform appeared likely to reach the widely predicted 100,000 mark with a chance to grow even larger as crowds of demonstrators streamed into Downtown Los Angeles as the event prepared to proceed.

The theme of this year's May Day demonstration is a general protest against a state law that recently passed in Arizona and allows law-enforcement officers there to question individuals about their immigration status and arrest anyone who cannot prove citizenship or legal residency.

The marchers are expected to proceed to the area around City Hall, where a number of elected officials will address them.

Here are some images from the run up to the march.

Moses Aguirre captures the general sentiment of the crowd with this placard protesting Arizona's recently passed law.

Mila Cuathemoc brought traditional Aztec dancing to the march, and used a modern convenience to let friends know about the big turnout.

Juan R. Doban said he wanted to make one thing clear to everyone with his sign.

A small band of marchers confronted a couple of anti-immigrant counter-demonstrators who brought bullhorn and urged marchers to "go home." Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers provided protection for the counter-demonstrators and a representative from one of the labor unions involved in organizing the event soon convinced marchers to disregard them.

Willy Garces says he wants to see immigration reform, but also hoped to make some extra money peddling to the marchers.

Related articles:
• After Arizona: 100,000 or More Expected for May Day Demonstration in L.A.
• Expect Some Filipino Flavor in May Day March for Immigration Reform

Jerry Sullivan is editor of the L.A. Garment & Citizen.

Photos by L.A. Garment & Citizen.

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