Governor Brian Kemp’s recent enactment of HB 1105 has sent ripples of concern and indignation through the immigrant community. The law’s implications for deportation have become a central fear.

The Law’s Impact

The law particularly affects undocumented immigrants, who are often unable to obtain driver’s licenses due to their status. Despite this, many continue to drive unlicensed. The new law, which obligates sheriffs to report the immigration status of arrested individuals to ICE, has amplified their fears.

Voices of Concern

The question, “What happens if I get pulled over with no license? Will I get deported? Is that enough of a crime?” has become a common question in the community. This concern is especially significant for those who drive to work or transport their children to and from school.

GLAHR’s Stand and Response

In the wake of Governor Brian Kemp’s signing of HB 1105, the Georgia Latino Alliance for Human Rights (GLAHR) sprang into action. Recognizing the fear and concern within the immigrant community, , GLAHR initiated a series of actions aimed at raising awareness and educating the public about the implications of the new law, including a “3 Days of Action” campaign that was made alongside Project South and in partnership with other latino rights groups, such as “Comunidad Estrella” and Migrant Equity Southeast.

On the first day of action, May 1st, GLAHR held a ‘Rally for Justice’ at Liberty Plaza. This powerful rally was an opportunity for the community to raise their voices together, demanding justice and equality for every individual.

On the second day, GLAHR led a protest walk by the governor’s mansion. This peaceful demonstration, however, was cut short by the arrival of police. Pasa La Voz Savannah was able to speak to Adelina Nicholls, executive director of GLAHR minutes after the protest was put to a sudden halt.

On the third day, GLAHR set up over 20 informational tables across the state to spread awareness and educate the public about the law. This is where we met Jonathan Sonia. Pasa La Voz Savannah had a livestream, speaking with Jonathan so the community could ask questions and receive answers in real time to fight misinformation and educate in real time. Jonathan provided some clarity on the topic of driving without a license.

He explained that the decision to arrest someone for driving without a license ultimately lies with the police department itself. However, he emphasized that being caught driving without a license once is a misdemeanor, and three times is considered a felony. This information is crucial, as starting July 1st, the law would require jails to report immigration status to ICE. This is particularly concerning to immigrants who cannot get their license due to legalities.

Edwin Interiano, a member of the community, said:

“The bad thing is that they defend you for something small, then they ask for a license and you don’t have one, and there your journey ends.”

Walter Cruz Sandoval, another member of the immigrant community, reacted:

“I agree that they should catch everyone who is causing trouble. It’s okay if they catch drunk drivers and criminals, but it’s very bad for many of us who only go to work and home.”

Interview with GLAHR’s Executive Director

We spoke with Adelina Nicholls, the executive director of GLAHR, after the protest on May 2nd. She expressed her dissatisfaction with the signing of HB 1105 and discussed the potential impacts of the law.

“We came on a walk that we call a walk for justice and towards the governor’s house to let him know our dissatisfaction for having signed HB1105,” Nicholls said. When asked to tell us about the incongruities, she said,

“This proposal of HB1105 will have an impact, there will be an increase in racial profiling in communities by the provinces and also the request that 159 sheriffs, who represent 159 counties, implement the 287G program throughout the state, which means increasing the number of arrests, detentions, deportations and we consider that this is unfair, this is something that we must continue to express our anger at these types of proposals and policies because our immigrant community what it does is work, contribute to the economy, pay taxes and we believe that it is time to make changes, not to criminalize but to include the community.”

GLAHR has a track record of fighting laws such as these. In 2011, GLAHR, alongside the ACLU, sued the state of GA for HB 87 (copycat of SB1070 in Arizona) and won, removing the most harmful aspects of the bill. I asked Nicholls to tell us about their experience back then, and whether they will implement the same things now.

“Part of the work we have to do is not only the community strategy but also the legal strategy. Legal defense is very important for these cases. In 2011 we entered a legal battle with the state of Georgia for HB87. However, today we are also working and exploring what would be the entry for potential litigation against HB1105.” Nicholls responded.

When asked what our community could do about all this, and how to protect themselves she responded the following

“You have to inform yourself about what the content of HB1105 is but the most important thing is to know what your rights are in case of implementation. We know that the implementation of this law will take place on July first and that it will undoubtedly affect our daily life. But we also believe that the only way to counteract is if we organize, if we mobilize, if we participate, and leave at least a space to express, to educate, to inform and to participate.”

Community Reactions

Reactions to the law from the immigrant community varied. Some expressed fear, while others showed defiance or agreement with the law’s intent to apprehend those committing crimes.

“Many hardworking people who go out to earn their living pay for the sins of others, and sometimes the criminals who don’t want to work are even legal,” said Ana Angeles.

“We’re done for,” said Claribel Mendoza.

“Don’t be scared, nothing happens to those who owe nothing,” said Cesar Gonzalez Hernandez.

Governor Brian Kemp’s signing of HB 1105 has ignited profound concerns and resistance within the Latinx immigrant community, particularly regarding its potential impact on deportation. The law’s provisions, especially regarding driving without a license and mandatory To reporting to ICE, have intensified fears among undocumented immigrants. Organizations like the Georgia Latino Alliance for Human Rights (GLAHR) have swiftly mobilized to educate and empower the community through rallies, protests, and informational campaigns. Despite varying reactions within the community, from fear to defiance, there is a unified call for advocacy, mobilization, and awareness to protect immigrant rights. As Adelina Nicholls aptly stated, informed community engagement and solidarity are crucial in navigating and resisting the repercussions of HB 1105.