Dozens of West Michigan Residents take to Washington for Immigration Reform

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (NEWS CHANNEL 3)- It's estimated that over one hundred thousand people from across the United States will be in Washington, Sunday to rally for immigration reform.

The rally is in response to a promise made by the Obama administration that he would tackle immigration reform during his first year as president.

To push the administration along, Saturday, the fight for reform began at the Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Kalamazoo.

Juan Alverez of Kalamazoo was born and raised in Guatemala City, Guatemala and was one of fifty West Michigan residents heading to the nation's capital for Sunday's march.

"We are committed to be one voice and we need immigration reform now," said Alverez.

Alverez was surrounded by nearly one hundred people shouting "Si Se Puede" or Yes We Can as the group boarded the bus headed to D.C.

Lauren Pott of Kalamazoo told News Channel 3 she is unable to make the rally but is impressed by the number of people from across West Michigan who are making the trip.

She added she is a staunch advocate of immigration reform saying a a local teacher she sees her student's parents struggle with immigration on a daily basis.

"Unemployment benefits, health insurance," said Pott.

21-year-old David Mata of Holland is also headed to Washington.  He came to Holland when he was seven after his parents moved from Mexico City to West Michigan. 

He has been advocating for reform for years; "I really hope its successful  because its been a while since the Latino community has voiced concerns over immigration reform."