Fontana Herald News
Saturday, March 13, 2010
The Inland Empire Rapid Response Network Friday denounced false rumors that Wal-Mart is allowing a large-scale operation of ICE raids in stores around the nation.
The network's hotlines have received a large volume of calls from people worried about the rumors, forwarded by text messages or via the Internet.
Over the last few days, the rumors have spread like wildfire, striking terror in immigrant communities all over the Inland Empire.
But even though the company itself has released a statement reassuring the community that it is not working with ICE, reports of mass Wal-Mart raids continue.
"We are asking people not to forward these text messages," said Jennaya Dunlap, a volunteer with the Rapid Response Network. "Our immigrant communities have already faced enough fear and heartbreak with the intense wave of raids here in the Inland Empire over the past year without this false alarm."
Still, the network urges vigilance, as Border Patrol and ICE actions continue to impact Inland Empire communities.
"If you witness a raid in progress or see immigration and local law enforcement working together, it is important if possible to document it without putting yourself in danger, by taking photos or videos or by talking to other witnesses," said Emilio Amaya, a member of the Rapid Response Network. "You can also report raids and checkpoints by calling one of our information hotlines, (866) 946-9594, or (951) 345-4043."
http://www.fontanaheraldnews.com/articles/2010/03/13/news/doc4b9ae4f78b69d524520966.txt
