Musicians play across border fence

KOLD 13 News
February 20, 2011
By Sam Salzwedel

NACO, Ariz. (KOLD) - Dozens of people staged a concert that crossed the border with Mexico Sunday afternoon.

"People who actually want to overcome divisiveness," Bisbee resident Edward Lee said, "we see fences as divisive."

The musicians played from the Mexican side of the fence near the Naco port of entry. The audience stood on the American side.

The rally was organized by Progressive Democrats of America Cochise County chapter.

Glenn Gerhardt came down from Huachuca City for the event. He says he has illegal immigrants pass near his home regularly.

"Most of the people that I've experienced in my 16 years in Arizona," Gerhardt said, "have been people just trying to get a better life."

Gerhardt hopes the group's message can stop some of the divisive politics in Arizona.

"I have a lot of friends in Mexico," Gerhardt said, "and they're people too. We can't demonize them."

The Progressive Democrats of America will hold another rally at the Tucson YWCA at 7:00 p.m. Monday. The address is 525 N. Bonita Ave.

Rep. Raul Grijalva D-Ariz., is expected to attend.

Rallies in Phoenix and Flagstaff are scheduled later in the week.

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