Three Eastside walking clubs are hosting silent peace walks this week in East LA, El Sereno and Montebello to support community members affected by recent immigration enforcement sweeps.
Called “For the Love of Our Communities: Peaceful Walks of Silence,” the idea sprouted last Wednesday, when communities on the Eastside saw one of the heaviest days of immigration enforcement since the raids began last June. Eastside LA Walking Club founder, Brissa Sanchez, wanted to host an event for people who want to show collective solidarity in their community, especially those who don’t feel safe or comfortable participating in massive protests.
“A lot of us are probably feeling depleted of exuding all this energy towards showing up in different ways, whether it’s at a protest or constantly being bombarded with everything that we’re seeing on social (media),” said Sanchez.
So last week, she reached out to other local walking clubs who were interested in participating. At the East LA Walking Club gathering on Wednesday, Sanchez will lead the group through relaxing breathing exercises, she said.
The walks are in honor of “our neighbors that have been affected by our horrible political climate,” the El Sereno Walking Club wrote in an Instagram story.
Participants are encouraged to bring candles and flowers, some of which may be provided onsite. The walks are meant to be a space where neighbors can be present with one another and “grieve together,” rather than march and protest, the post says.
“These walks are a moment to be present with one another, to walk quietly, and to move through our city with care.”
Last week, federal immigration agents and their vehicles were spotted in Boyle Heights and East LA, and at least 6 people were taken in the operations.
On Friday, Los Angeles communities came together to protest during the “ICE Out” National Day of Action, marching from City Hall in downtown LA to Boyle Heights and back.
Find a silent walk near you:
Montebello
The Montebello Walking Club will meet Monday, Feb. 2 and Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 5 p.m. at Montebello City Hall.
East LA
The East LA Walking Club will meet Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. at 5718 Whittier Blvd. The route is posted on the club’s Instagram page.
El Sereno
The El Sereno Walking Club will meet Sunday, Feb. 8 at 8 a.m. The route will be posted on the club’s Instagram page.
