East Tennesseans gather to protest an immigration bill

Some East Tennesseans gather to protest an immigration bill. Senator Bill Frist has proposed legislation that would tighten U.S. borders, fine employers who hire illegal immigrants and provide more visas.

This bill concerns some in the Knoxville-area. Saturday more than 600 people came together in West Knoxville to have their voices heard.

The Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition put on the March for Immigration Reform.

Folks there say the senator's plan is undignified and unfair. They are asking for something more realistic.

Lisa Barba is the East Tennessee organizer for the TIRRC. She says, "Senator Frist, we want you to look deep in your heart and listen. We're talking to you. We are the state of Tennessee."

The coalition says this bill that was proposed Friday would affect more than 11 million families.