Hispanics Speak Out Against Immigration Legislation

Members of Tulsa's Hispanic community speak out against a controversial immigration reform bill. Members of the State House tell The News On 6 it's just a matter of time before the bill makes it to the governor's desk. But News On 6 anchor Latoya Silmon reports before it does, some members of the Hispanic community plan to give Governor Brad Henry an ear full.

Thursday night members of the Hispanic community gave a voice to those they say are too scared to speak up for themselves.

"We come to assure them that LULAC, its members and Tulsa leaders, we're going try to secure their interests the best way we can," LULAC Vice President Ed Romo said.

They're organizing to dismantle HB 1804, or the Oklahoma Citizen and Taxpayer Protection Act of 2007.

"People have said this bill is bipartisan. I say it's bipolar," said Romo.

Supporters say it stops taxpayer benefits to illegal immigrants and keeps employers from hiring them.

"We welcome them with one hand for the jobs that are available, and we have done well here with their labor. With the other hand we're pushing them away and calling the police on them," Romo said.

Town Hall organizers believe the legislation creates fear, and division, so they're calling on members of the community to let Governor Brad Henry know their concerns.

"We hope the governor is as courageous as we know he can be," said Romo.

Organizers of Thursday's meeting encouraged everyone to write, call or email the governor and ask him to veto the bill. If he doesn't do that LULAC, which stands for League of United Latin American Citizens, says they are exploring legal options.

Originally aired 4/19/2007 9:50 PM - Updated 4/20/2007 9:30 AM