By Lauren Haviland
Published: June 2, 2016, 4:30 pm Updated: June 2, 2016, 5:35 pm

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – The battle over immigration laws is taking center stage in Wake County.

Throughout the day Thursday, activists gathered at the detention center for a day-long protest. They’re protesting a controversial program, 287(g), which allows a state or local law enforcement entity to enter into a partnership to share information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The protesters wanted the sheriff to publicly announce he wouldn’t renew the program by June 1st.

Over the phone, Sheriff Donnie Harrison confirmed with CBS North Carolina he signed 287(g) last week. He said he signed it because “it makes our county safer.”

The protesters say they disagree. They tell CBS North Carolina they don’t believe the program is working. They said Thursday they believe it’s not good for the community, allows for racial profiling and unjust deportations.

Through an interpreter, Martha Hernandez said, “everyone has the same rights as Donnie Harrison’s family, to live in peace and live without fear.”

Last month, Harrison said that the “only time a person is going to be checked for not being documented is when he goes to jail.”

Kate Woomer-Deters with the N.C. Justice Center, said, “we believe it creates the potential for more danger and more crime to thrive in the community.”

Protesters plan to be at the detention center until 8 p.m. Thursday.

http://wncn.com/2016/06/02/immigrati...ring-with-ice/