On a crisp November morning in San Francisco, faith leaders and community activists marched between federal immigration centers, their voices united in protest against what they see as systematic injustice and human rights violations.

Organized by Faith in Action East Bay, the demonstration brought together clergy from diverse religious backgrounds to denounce the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. Rabbi Allan Berkowitz, a key organizer, emphasized the collective commitment to human dignity: “What unites us is the preservation of every human being’s sanctity”.

The march, which began at the San Francisco Immigration Court and concluded at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services building, was more than a symbolic gesture. Participants sang hymns and carried a powerful message challenging current immigration policies.

Statistics paint a stark picture of the current immigration landscape. The Migration Policy Institute reports over 60,000 people were detained as of late August, a significant increase from 40,000 during the previous administration. The Deportation Data Project reveals that more than 2,000 individuals in the San Francisco area have been detained by ICE since the start of the Trump administration.

Rev. Deborah Lee from the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity described the immigration centers as “places of arrest, kidnappings, and family separation” - highlighting the human cost of current policies.

Rev. Katie Choy-Wong shared a personal perspective, referencing her grandparents’ experiences as undocumented Chinese migrants who faced significant prejudice. Her prayer called for compassion, respect, and fundamental human decency within the immigration system.

Berkowitz found hope in recent election results, viewing them as a potential sign of changing attitudes and increased support for more humane immigration policies.

The demonstration underscored a critical message: communities will continue to resist policies that dehumanize and marginalize immigrants, standing firmly for justice and human rights.