Washington D.C., Feb 27, 2018 / 16:20 pm
A group of about 100 people--including Franciscan friars, religious sisters, and laity--gathered in the rotunda of the Russell Senate Building in Washington on Tuesday, and were led away in flex cuffs in a planned act of civil disobedience.
The protest was intended to pressure Congress to take action on "Dreamers," or people who were brought to the United States illegally as children. It was organized as part of the Catholic Day of Action with Dreamers, an event planned by Catholic social advocacy groups.
One of those arrested was Sr. Tracy Kemme, a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati. Prior to her arrest, Kemme told CNA that she considered her actions to be worthwhile to help protect the immigrant community.
"Myself, two of my sisters, and one of our associates will be doing civil disobedience," said Kemme. She continued, "It's a moral moment of truth and it's worth it to us to try to raise the consciousness of our legislators."