Immigration in Sarasota - October Update
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, and in light of the ongoing targeting of immigrant communities across Florida and the nation, our first post is dedicated to the issue of Immigration—lifting up the voices, resilience, and struggles of our immigrant neighbors. From harmful state policies to local enforcement practices that threaten families, we stand with all who seek dignity, belonging, and freedom. Together, we affirm that every person—regardless of race, nationality, or legal status—is sacred and deserving of compassion and safety.
Standing in Prayer and Solidarity
Join us for our Weekly SURE Prayer Vigils, held in solidarity with those being detained at the Big Cypress Detention Center and other detention centers across Florida and the U.S.
📍 Location: Payne Park Pavilion, Sarasota
🕔 Time: Every Sunday, 5–6 PM
Each vigil is led by local clergy and faith leaders. The next three weeks will be led by the following leaders:
October 12 – Pastor Ashley Nicholls, St. Paul Lutheran Church
October 19 – Rev. Andrew Hudson, Covenant Mennonite Church of Sarasota
October 26 – Rev. Stephen Hoffman, Trinity United Methodist Church
We gather in prayer, lament, and hope—believing that our collective witness can help end the suffering caused by unjust detention and deportation systems.
Upcoming Events and Opportunities
Tuesday, October 7 | 11:30 AM–1 PM
Immigration Presentation: “What’s Happening and What Can I Do?”
Join Barbara Smith-Bacon and Michelle Jewell for a conversation with the UU Women of First Congregational. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear personal stories, learn about current realities, and explore concrete ways to take action in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors.
📍 Syster Hall (second building as you enter the parking lot)
🕰️ 11:30 AM – Doors open | 12 PM – Lunch & prayer | 12:30 PM – Speakers & Q&A
Tuesday, October 7 | 8 PM-9 PM
Disappeared In America Day of Action: Information Call
Activists from across the country will share their experiences organizing powerful actions outside detention centers, local jails, Home Depots, and other sites where ICE has carried out operations targeting immigrant communities. Together, we’ll hear from leaders on the front lines, learn how these actions are exposing the administration’s assault on due process and the fundamental rights of all Americans, and get equipped with the tools and support needed to host your own event.
🔗 Click here to register for the Disappeared in America event.
Wednesday, October 8 | 3 PM
Indigenous Americans Heritage Month Presentation
Hosted by SCOR (Sacred Conversations on Race), Racial Justice Mission Group, and Environmental Justice at First Congregational UCC (FCUCC).
Featuring Betty Osceola of the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida (Big Cypress National Preserve) and Michelle Jewell, Executive Director of SURE.
📍 Oasis Center, First Congregational UCC, 1031 S. Euclid Avenue, Sarasota
💻 Zoom ID: 824 5325 5902 | Passcode: 459697
All are welcome to this vital conversation connecting Indigenous wisdom, racial justice, and care for creation.
Wednesday, October 8 | 7–8 PM ET
Faith Leaders Confront Immigrant Detention in Florida
Part of the FFDI Education Series: Speaking Out for Freedom.
Faith leaders and justice advocates will confront the inhumane treatment and systemic cruelty inside Florida’s detention facilities—including the notorious “Alligator Alcatraz.”
Featured speakers include Rev. Dr. Russell Meyer, Rev. Dr. Gayle Fisher-Stewart, Rev. Arthur Jones III, and Betty Osceola, with moderator Sandra Viktorova (WGCU Public Media).
🔗 Click here to register for the Faith Leaders Program.
Saturday, October 25
Immigration Town Hall – Port Charlotte
Join us for a community conversation on immigration, featuring advocates and lived experience stories from across the region.
📲 Link will be added soon.
📍Charlotte Technical Center Auditorium, 18150 Murdock Cir, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
Friday, November 8 | 7 AM Departure
Bus Trip to Big Cypress Detention Center
The Immigration Justice Coalition (IJC), in partnership with SURE, the Suncoast Jewish Alliance, UU Church of Sarasota, and First Congregational UCC, is organizing a trip to pray for and stand with those detained. This is an invitation to all SURE clergy—and to people of faith and conscience—to bear public witness for human dignity. Please reach out if you would like to reserve a seat.
🚌 Seats: 60 available | Cost: $30 per person
Tuesday, November 19 | 1 PM
Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority Public Meeting
📍 Dan P. McClure Auditorium, 6000 Airport Circle, Sarasota
The Immigration Justice Coalition (IJC) is encouraging concerned citizens to speak during the public comment period, urging the board to end its contract with Avelo Airlines unless the airline ceases cooperation with ICE in transporting detainees without due process. Your presence and voice can make a difference.
Together, We Build the Beloved Community
SURE remains steadfast in our commitment to justice for immigrants and all who are marginalized. Every vigil, every conversation, every act of witness helps dismantle fear and build a community rooted in love and respect.
Let’s keep showing up—together—for those who are unseen, unheard, and unjustly detained.
