Sheriff Joe Arpaio Protest

Tonight was my first event with Border Angels. I went to a protest at the Marriot Hotel in Mission Valley to protest Sherriff Joe Arpaio's presence here in San Diego. Sherriff Arpaio has been accused several times of conducting abusive acts toward his prisoners in Arizona who are illegal immigrants from Mexico. My mentor, Isabel Montano, told us that one of the worse things he does is force his illegal prisoners to wear pink underwear and march up and down the street. If you've ever seen the show "LockUp", you've seen Sherriff Arpaio. He works at Maricopa County prison and is often televised when his prison is being protested, which is nearly everyday. We stood outside of the hotel for about an hour before he arrived with lit candles and crosses. We said a few prayers and spoke to the news channels a few times. As with most protests, there was of course supporters of Sherriff Arpaio. They carried several racist signs and shouted awful sayings. It was nothing like anything I've ever experienced. I hope that every time I go to volunteer with Border Angels, it will not be such a clear view of the ignorance of the American people.

**2 Hours