Lucio Perez To End Sanctuary Stay
Lucio Perez addresses tje congregation at First Church of Amherst at an event commemorating his two years of living in sanctuary at the church. Rev. Margaret Sawyer translated his remarks from Spanish. Photo: Art Keene
Source: Pioneeer Valley Workers Center
The Pioneer Valley Workers Center (PVWC) announced that on Saturday March 13, after 3.5 years living in sanctuary at First Church Amherst, Lucio Perez will leave sanctuary. Perez has won his freedom with a stay of deportation issued by ICE on March 5. The community is invited to join the Perez family in a COVID safe celebration at Noon on Saturday March 13 at First Church Amherst, 165 Main Street.
Through sanctuary, Lucio bravely defied deportation and shed light on the devastation wrought by US immigration policy. Lucio’s powerful NO to deportation helped thousands believe another world is possible. PVWC extends thanks for all the ways the community has been part of this victory, and thanks to First Church Amherst for walking this long journey with Lucio. They also continue to lift up the sanctuary journey of Irida Kakhtiranova, nearing 3 years in April and ask people to join in praying for and supporting Irida as her team works to secure her freedom.
If you are able, please consider a contribution to Lucio and Irida.
- Donate to the sanctuary fund of the Unitarian Society of Northampton and Florence to support Irida Kakhtiranova and others in sanctuary.
- Donate to the Immigrant Sanctuary Fund to support Lucio Perez and others in sanctuary in our area.
Read the story about the celebration in the Daily Hampshire Gazette
Event flyers are below.
I was hoping there was a way to send a financial contribution directly to Sr. Perez and his family. Three yrs and 5 mo has brought a large and real hardship to some one who stood up for us all (the latter my reason for joining).
– -Chad Fuller
Ex-Accompaniment Volunteer
First Church Amherst