Birmingham, AL – Some in Alabama's Hispanic community are encouraging Spanish-speaking residents and their supporters to skip work this week to protest the state's tough new law against illegal immigration.
Facebook users have formed groups and events urging people to skip work on Wednesday and Thursday. They're also asking people to only shop at businesses that are part of the Hispanic community. Hundreds have said they're participating.
A Spanish-language radio station in metro Birmingham is helping promote the campaign. It's telling fans on its Facebook page to stage a labor strike to show that Hispanics are an important part of Alabama's economy.
In heavily Hispanic Albertville, city officials say some Hispanic businesses are planning to close Wednesday. The city is considering a parade permit request so people can demonstrate against the law.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)