Protesters across the Country took to the street this "May day" | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Fresno, CA With a new White House administration, and a fresh outlook on immigration reform, Valley residents hope change is soon to follow.

"Obama, escucha, estamos en la lucha"

Hundreds of people braved the rain and marched through downtown Fresno Friday.

"Si, se puede."

Organizers say the rain, and people's fear of the flu outbreak did keep some people away, but it didn't stop their fight. They want equal rights for Latino immigrants who came to the United States to work and live the American dream.

"We don't take, we contribute. We're a very proud people, and the sacrifices we make, it's not just for our families, it's for everybody."

"We want to come out of the shadows, we pay our taxes, and we want to be treated as humans."

Felix Gomez arrived in the U.S. when he was just seven years old. He now works as a teacher in Fresno. Gomez says he's fighting for equal rights, not just for himself, but for his children.

"I was once classified as an illegal alien, and I want him growing up knowing what his roots are. This nation is built on immigrants."

Those who attended Friday's rally say they're more optimistic for immigration reform this year because of President Obama.

They hope he'll bring change to a country they'd all like to call home. "It's not that the concerns weren't listened to in the last administration, but there weren't a whole lot of responses. You know actions speak louder than words. So far, Obama has shown that there's been a lot of action."

Organizers say despite a smaller crowd this year, they're pleased with the turnout. They say tonight's rally is just one of much more to come. They're already communicating with Valley Congressmen and hope to bring their fight to Washington D.C.