MEMPHIS, Tenn — Hundreds of protestors took to the streets of Memphis to make their voices heard.
With signs, banners and children in tow, they marched from Clayborn Temple — a place that hosted protestors during the Civil Rights era of the 50s and 60s –to the National Civil Rights Museum protesting the immigration executive order recently signed by President Donald Trump.
As they continued down side streets blocked off by the men and women in blue, their numbers grew and so did their message.
“Say it loud, say it clear…immigrants are welcome here,” they shouted.
It’s a message being heard all across the country after President Trump signed the order Friday, blocking refugees and citizens from seven majority-Muslim countries from entering the US for 90 days.
Those seven countries include Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.
The announcement sparked protests in cities like Washington, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and now Memphis, where protestors said all they want is to spread love and support the refugees seeking a safe place to call home.
“I think the fact this large crowd has come out with great passion at the site of Martin Luther King’s assassination sends the message that Memphis is a welcoming city,” said Steven Mulroy, an Associate Dean at the University of Memphis Law School.
A message, Nooruddin Jalal wants to continue to send.
“I believe America is a home of hope,” he said.
Jalal moved here from Pakistan three years ago as a student,now he works in Collierville. He said while Pakistan is not part of the ban, his heart hurts for those seeking refuge.
“We stand here together to raise a voice for humanity,” he said.
For Jalal the peaceful demonstration is a reminder.
“America is always, will always and I’m sure its going to be a home to hope,” he said.
The Memphis Police Department said there were no reports of violent incidents or arrests.