Thousands of people took part in a "Day without Latinos" Monday to try and prevent Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke from cracking down on undocumented immigrants.
The event was organized by Voces de la Frontera, and attracted Latinos and other protesters from several cities across Wisconsin. More than 120 businesses were closed to show solidarity.
A variety of supporters gathered at Voces de la Frontera's office before they set off for the Milwaukee County Courthouse.
We asked some of the protesters a simple question -- why are you here?"
"I never want to feel like I don't belong. My mom and I are here today because this is our home. I never want my mom to feel like she does not belong. We have to let people know to stay strong."
"It's important to show our unity as a community and stand up against a racist and bigoted government that targets vulnerable communities in the U.S. We have to show our strength and defeat this type of laws before they go into action of racial profiling."
"I'm from Jerusalem and I'm here to support everybody. Together we are strong, we are united. We are here to support against what [Sheriff Clarke] is doing. It's too hard for him to divide us."
"My parents are from Mexico but they have been here 20 years. We are from here. I don't want them to be deported, I don't want families to be separated anymore. It's not fair, it's not justice."
"Lady Liberty is a symbol of friendship, freedom and democracy. This is what democracy looks like."
"I'm here fighting for everyone that couldn't be here, for everyone that's too scared to be here, the people that got us to where we are today. "
"I'm 15. I was born here, but my mom is from Mexico. This is a time to support us especially during this time of Trump and his plans for immigration. Mexicans are valuable asset to the history of the U.S.A."
"We came from Madison. It's important because we want to keep families together and people deserve to not be scared of who they are. They deserve to be free and work."
"I can be Mexican and American at the same time."
"You are never too old to protest."
"I am from Milwaukee and I feel American but this president is not for us. He does not feel American. I have fear and I do not want to have no more. I am proud immigrant. I no like Trump."
"I don't know Mexico like I used to. Milwaukee is home now. I would like Milwaukee to stay home."
