Washington, D.C. — Following the abduction of worker-leader Alejandro Guizar Lozano, Jobs with Justice Executive Director Erica Smiley issued the following statement:
“I am devastated to learn that Alejandro Guizar Lozano, a beloved Knoxville community member, labor organizer, and civil and immigrant rights advocate, has been abducted by immigration authorities. This abduction represents yet another attempt to silence political dissent to the current administration’s attack on democracy and basic human rights. This coordinated attack on immigrant rights, human rights, and civil rights underscores the urgency of organizing in this moment to build the world we need and a democracy that works for all, not just the wealthy few. We are clear that these abductions and detentions are designed to terrorize our neighbors and harm all of us. We will not abandon Alejandro to this administration’s violent deportation machine or turn away from the attacks on our communities. We will continue organizing to protect our communities under threat by the current presidential administration. We will double down to protect the most vulnerable from being abducted or silenced in any way. Jobs with Justice stands in full solidarity with Alejandro and the communities devastated by his absence in East Tennessee. We demand Alejandro’s immediate release.”
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