Utica Joins National Protests On National Emergency

Indivisible Mohawk Valley and Central NY Citizen Action held a demonstration at the Oneida Square Roundabout in Utica today.

The protest was one of many held across the nation to protest the President’s declaration of a national emergency to gain funding for a wall along the southern border of the United States.

The demonstration fell on Presidents’ Day, which organizers chose as an ideal day for Americans to reflect on presidential leadership, past and present.

"On the day we honor two great presidents, we condemn one who dishonors the office," said Indivisible member Shirley Knop, one of the many people who attended the peaceful demonstration.  Joel Ruiz, member of Citizen Action said "This fake emergency is an illegal power grab and a racist attack on immigrants and refugees in our communities. We stand with the most vulnerable people in our communities and demand Congress rescind this illegal and immoral declaration of a fake emergency."

Over 75 people took part in the peaceful demonstration.