Peaceful March to Promote a Greater Understanding

Today's March in Salt Lake City, coinciding with a larger gathering in Washington, D. C., was a peaceful procession of an estimated 10,000 people. While Bishop Wester was participating in the Washington, D. C. gathering, Fr. Omar Ontiveros, Fr. Javier Virgen, Deacon Ricardo Arias and members of the Cathedral's Spanish Choir and families participated in the local event which began at the City/County Building, circled the State Capitol and returned to the 400 South and State Street origin.



Both organizers and the police were surprised by the large turnout. The clear message from all gathered was an affirmation of the greatness of the United States and a desire to participate fully in the cultural and economic fabric of this nation. There was no hint of cultural triumphalism, insistence on the Spanish language or a call for amnesty. Only an opportunity through legal channels to redress their status and become active participants in society, engaging the culture in the same way that Irish, German, Italian and many other immigrant communities have before.



Choir School Families and Students, Members of the Cathedral Parish and the Cathedral's Spanish Choir all took part in this afternoon's march.



And, of course, on the way home there is always trouble in the back of the bus!