Federal Investigation Requested in
Border "Sniper Shootings" of Mexicansby
Ernesto Cienfuegos
La Voz de AztlanTucson, Arizona - October 22, 2002 - (ACN) Human rights advocates have called for a federal investigation of several recent border incidents, including last week's double murders near the Mexico/Arizona border believed committed by racist anti-Mexican vigilante groups that advocate the "hunting down" of Mexican migrant workers crossing the border.
At a rally in downtown Tucson, human rights groups Coalición de Derechos Humanos, Alianza Indigena Sin Fronteras and another led by the Reverend John Fife of the Southside Presbyterian Church said they fear things will worsen before improving because southern Arizona has become a "haven for racist vigilantes who are creating an atmosphere of terror."
"The murder of two migrants is not an isolated incident," said the Reverend John Fife. "It is the culmination of a history of dehumanization and racism and militarism on this border that has gone on for a long time. Too long."
Isabel Garcia, co-chairwoman of Derechos Humanos, said that the vigilante groups, Ranch Rescue and American Border Patrol have no jurisdiction to hunt down, arrest or shoot at Mexican border crossers. She said that it is the responsibility of the U.S. Border Patrol to monitor the border. "We call for immediate dismantling of those terrorist organizations and an immediate halt to the murders, the continued gross violations of human rights and civil liberties," added Isabel Garcia.
Former Pima County Supervisor Raul Grijalva who is presently a candidate for Congress, took part in a rally in Tucson yesterday and called out publicly for federal authorities to investigate.
José R. Matus, director of Derechos Humanos, said "These incidents are extremely disturbing!" He added, "We're very agitated and upset at what's going on now. We're fearful of people thinking they can pick up guns and shoot at anyone who looks Mexican."
Related Article:
Hunting of Mexicans along US/Mexico Border Escalates - Two Dead
