University of Mary Washington students will hold a campus march for immigrant rights on Wednesday, February 2 at 12:30 p.m. at the Bell Tower. The Mary Washington Chapter of Virginia Organizing will join hundreds of Virginians across the state this week and next week to oppose a slew of anti-immigrant and anti-democratic legislation in the 2011 Virginia General Assembly.

The Mary Washington March for Immigrant Rights is part of Virginia United for Immigrants Rights, a coalition of community organizations, advocacy groups, and labor unions planning over 10 rallies across the state as a part of their “Week of Action for Progress, Fairness, and Security.” The first of the rallies will take place in Alexandria on February 1, and will continue in Fredericksburg, Hampton Roads, Harrisonburg, Danville, and other towns across the state, culminating in Newport News on February 9.

The coalition has been tracking the 2011 legislation since the summer of last year. Among the many anti-family, anti-immigrant laws up for a vote this year are two nearly identical bills by Delegates Scott Lingamfelter and David Albo, both of which would require Virginia police to ascertain the immigration status of anyone who is arrested. In addition, the students are standing in opposition to legislation that would keep undocumented students from attending universities in Virginia.

The Week of Action is expected to draw hundreds of participants, and will consist of diverse programming across each region, including cultural events, rallies, candlelight vigils and town hall meetings.

Who: Virginia Organizing Mary Washington Chapter

What: Mary Washington March for Immigrant Rights

When: Wednesday, February 2, 2011 at 12:30 p.m.

Where: University of Mary Washington Bell Tower, 1301 College Avenue, Fredericksburg, VA 22401