'Si se puede,' 200,000 marchers say

Deanna Dent / THE STATE PRESS

Seven-year-old Mario Rodriguez and his 9-year-old sister, Cielo Rodriguez, were among the marchers to the state Capitol Monday in protest of legislation that they feel is unfair to illegal immigrants.

A historic day in Phoenix brought as many as 200,000 people on a three-mile march for immigration reform under the banner "We are America."

"S se puede" was the most predominant chant in the crowd. The Spanish phrase means "Yes we can." Monday's march was part of the National Day of Action, and 45 organizations from across the state participated. Event organizers said 200,000 people attended, most wearing white shirts to show their peaceful intentions.

Similar events were held across the country to protest House Resolution 4437, known as the Border Security Bill, which would make illegal immigration a felony and expedite deportation processes. Bulmaro Martinez came with his wife and two children from Mesa. With an American flag in hand, Martinez came to protest because he wanted a greater opportunity in America.