MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Keep silent or speak up?
If you noticed something suspicious at work or where you live, would you call police?
“I would certainly say something,” said Anthony Branch of Bartlett.
In this day and time, saying something can save lives.
“There is a lot going on and we should definitely get involved. There are many people that don’t want to say anything, but I think it’s important the we do speak up,” said Branch.
Law enforcement has urged people to report what they see and let them handle the rest.
“Trust your instincts. If you thought about it, looked at it and questioned whether you should call, call,” said Southaven Police Chief Tom Long. “What we would love to be able to do is not solve the crime, but prevent the crime.”
It was a point not lost on a group of religious leaders who gathered in Memphis Thursday to discuss immigration issues.
They wanted churches to get involved in making sure immigrants are welcomed in Tennessee and hope recent attacks won’t be used to label a group of people in need of help.
“How can we have a balance in between and say we want secure borders because we want a secure nation, but at the same time let’s love them first, care for them and give them a path to citizenship?” asked Rondell Trevino, a trainer for the organization Bibles, Badges and Business.
“I believe that people need to get out of their own comfort zone and get to know people outside of their own race. Get to know the immigrant community and they will understand that they are people that have needs, they have dreams and want to do well in this country,” said Pastor Greg Diaz of Nueva Direccion Church.
It means balancing needs while staying aware of what’s going on around you.
“It’s a very tragic time in our society and we all have to be vigilant,” said Chief Long.
Law Enforcement officials said if you suspect something, take action and tell someone.
While it may turn out to be nothing but if it is, it could be a matter of life and death.