VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Saturday in Deland, a lively and passionate protest unfolded at the intersection of International Blvd. and Woodland Blvd., capturing the voices and emotions of the community on both sides of the immigration debate.
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Approximately 250 protesters gathered at the intersection of International Speedway and Woodland Boulevards, holding signs and chanting while passing drivers honked in support.
Among them were Florida residents Perla Sanchez and Daniela Copa, who are deeply connected to their Mexican heritage. “We are out here being the voice for our Hispanic community that cannot do so,” Sanchez said.
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These local reactions come as President Trump has recently signed several executive orders to tighten immigration enforcement.
One of these orders, titled “Protecting The American People Against Invasion,” aims to speed up deportations, increase the number of immigration officers, and cut federal funding to sanctuary cities.
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Nearby, Dan and Pat Stark observed the demonstration, supporting the president’s recent executive orders on immigration.
Moving about the crowd as the protest intensified, attendees were discovered to share some of the same sentiments.
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As the nation grapples with evolving immigration policies, communities like DeLand find themselves at the heart of the conversation, balancing compassion with the rule of law.
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