On Saturday, March 25th, Watsonville saw the largest march for peace and justice in the history of the city. Documented and undocumented workers, families and allies marched in solidarity with anti-war activists in a peaceful march though the city of Watsonville. The route had been pre-planned and sent to the police. Crowd security was provided by the Watsonville Brown Berets. People marched down the furthest right hand lane of the four lane roads and traffic was moving in both directions.

Yet, after the march, the Watsonville Police Department targeted one organizer (a Brown Beret) and wrote him a citation with 8-10 counts against him, including criminal charges. They will also be charging the Brown Berets for police overtime. This was an effort to show people that “…they can’t do whatever they want to,” in the words of the Watsonville Police.

Residents came from everywhere to use the opportunity to be heard. This has been a silent population until now. Silent because they are working 12-16 hour days in the fields, hotels, and factories so Americans can enjoy the lifestyle and economic privilege they are accustomed to. Read more

Update: Charges Have Been Dropped and the Brown Berets Have Agreed to Pay the $1,500 Fine