Call to Action
We have a special call to action today. Community members have been receiving responses from their elected officials, which tells us NOW is the time to have them hear from even more of us. Please use this link to contact Elder’s elected officials TODAY.
Here is the same link, just in case: https://takeaction.io/afu/free-elder/
While it is still particularly important for Alabama-based residents to communicate,
ALL communications matter.
Let’s get Elder back in time for school!
What A Night
Team Elder showed up in force last night in four states – Alabama, Pennsylvania, Louisiana and Georgia. Community members told stories about Elder, shared their sadness and their hope, prayed and sang together. They also heard from the partners of other people detained by ICE, reminding us all that Elder is our main focus today, but he is not the only one. Finally, they all lit candles, bringing light into the darkness.
Messiah Lutheran of Downingtown, Pennsylvania also had an effective display telling the stories of Pennsylvania residents detained by ICE, as well as a heartachingly-beautiful display honoring those that have been killed by ICE. The community was honored to have Downingtown mayor Erica Deuso take the time to visit the memorial display and to light a candle in honor of those that have been killed by ICE.
For those of you who were unable to attend, here’s the YouTube link to last night’s vigil:
August 5 Multi-State Vigil for Elder Chavez
From Abundant Grace UMC in Boaz, Alabama
Deepest gratitude to Pastor Carol for hosting
Pastor Beth spoke beautifully of “seeing Jesus in the eyes of Elder”
Teacher Carmen told of how much Elder has meant to her as a student,
and reminded us he is just a kid.
Elder’s prayer shawl, held with love at Abundunt Grace UMC
Candles lit for Elder
From Messiah Lutheran in Downingtown, Pennsylvania
Our communities joined together thanks to technology.
Together, we all listened to a recorded message from Elder.
Community member Pam overcame technical difficulties to Zoom in from Louisiana.
Pam regularly visits Elder at Winn and keeps us posted on how he is doing.
(He still needs his braces checked).
We were honored to have Ariel Whaley of Kennett Square, PA speak.
Ariel’s husband is currently detained by ICE.
Candles lit and raised, bringing hope to all.
We’ll continue to share more media throughout the day. Please check our socials – -@freeeldernow on IG and FB.