In response to a controversial proposal to convert the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station into a deportation center, two grassroots organizations are joining forces to stage a "Peace Parade."
The WNY Peace Center and RootsAction are rallying community members to voice their opposition to the request made by Representatives Nick Langworthy (NY-23) and Claudia Tenney (NY-24) to U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Scheduled for February 23rd, the parade will commence at 2pm from the University at Buffalo’s South Campus, culminating in a caravan to the Niagara Falls Air Base. Organizers Victory Ross and India Walton emphasized the importance of community solidarity in their announcement, stating, “We are here to make it clear that we stand against the deportation of our friends and neighbors. We also reject the presence of 900 U.S. military bases that burden our communities with high costs, environmental damage, and social issues like PTSD.”
The groups are advocating for a more constructive use of the air base, proposing the installation of a solar energy array to promote renewable energy instead of a deportation facility.
Additional support for the protest has come from various local organizations, including Jewish Voice for Peace Buffalo, Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, and We Are Women Warriors. This event is part of a broader initiative known as the “Global Day of Action to #CloseBases,” aimed at raising awareness about the implications of military bases and advocating for peace and community well-being
Local Groups Organize 'Peace Parade' to Oppose Deportation Center at Niagara Falls Air Base