Thermal Community Holds Candlelight Vigil in Support of Immigrant Families

Residents from across the eastern Coachella Valley gathered in Thermal Thursday evening for a candlelight vigil to show support for immigrant families facing uncertainty and fear.

Organizers said the event was intended to send a simple but powerful message to families navigating difficult circumstances: You are not alone.

The vigil brought together local church leaders, community members and families from a variety of backgrounds. Faith leaders offered prayers and words of encouragement, while children from immigrant families shared personal stories about their experiences.

Participants then lit candles as symbols of hope before walking together through the community in a peaceful show of solidarity.

Organizers said they hope the gathering encourages understanding and unity while reminding families that they have the support of their neighbors.

"We don't want any more families to be separated. We want communities to come together and understand each other first of all. That's what we're here to do — to show solidarity with each other and show that we all belong and that we're all connected. We're all Americans. We're all here to be together. We're here to prosper, to grow and to become that united America that we have always envisioned," one organizer said.

Organizers said the vigil united people of different faiths, cultures and backgrounds with the shared goal of offering strength, compassion and hope to families during a challenging time.

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