'We are Immigrants-Somos Inmigrantes' celebration dinner marks continuation of campaign

The dinner brought together campaign supporters, including business owners, homeowners and churches who have placed the purple and yellow signs in their yards, windows, and on their walls. The now-familiar signs with an image of the Statue of Liberty say, "We are Immigrants Somos Inmigrantes."

The goal of the event was to say thank you to those who've helped the campaign grow since the March 7 launch. Starting out with $300 and several hundred signs, the campaign has since distributed more than 2,000 signs throughout the Gorge, and sparked interest in other communities across the U.S.

Speakers included Gladys Rivera, Hood River City Council chairperson; Gabriela Pacheco, educator; Janet Hamada, executive director of The Next Door; and Juan Romero, community leader.

"Imagine if the Japanese-Americans, who were being forcibly removed from their homes in 1942 with only what they could carry, had seen signs of support like these all over the community," said Janet Hamada, whose Japanese family members experienced incarceration. "It would have been a completely different situation, not just one of fear, threats, and discrimination. It is vital to show our support for our immigrant neighbors now so we can break with our past, and instead, show our love, tolerance, and respect for our neighbors."

The campaign's next public event will be at the Wednesday, Dec. 3 Gorge Speakeasy storytelling event. The theme of the night will be immigrant stories, and people who want to talk about their own experiences are encouraged to come sign up. It takes place at The Ruins. Doors open at 6 p.m., and stories begin at 7 p.m.

In the meantime, yard and window signs are available at Riverside Church. Call or e-mail the church office at 541-386-1412 or office@riversideucc.com to arrange for pick up or delivery. Signs are also available every Saturday at the Farmer's Market through November.