DALLAS - Arizona is preparing to ask an appeals court to lift a judge's ruling that put most of the state's immigration law on hold in a key first-round victory for the federal government in a fight that may go to the U.S. Supreme Court.
The federal ruling on Arizona's new law has stirred up emotions in North Texas, as well. One group is gathering to celebrate the judge's decision.
Those who agreed with U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton's decision plan to express their support at a gathering at Dallas City Hall Thursday afternoon. A news conference is scheduled at noon at the site.
"Today, the organization applauds the decision of U.S. District Judge Susan R. Bolton to grant a preliminary injunction on a key provision of the law," read a statement released by the Reform Immigration for Texas Alliance (RITA) group. "The Arizona law would have led to racial profiling, inflamed racial hatred and victimized our peaceful border communities."
Many of those attending the celebration at City Hall participated in the Mega March for Immigration Reform, which took place in May. Marchers protested the Arizona immigration law that at that time had just been passed.
Among others gathering are members of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), which is pushing for federal legislation that would provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented children raised in the United States.
The vast majority of voters still support the Arizona law, and its attempt to crackdown on illegal immigration along the border.
E-mail: cvega@wfaa.com
