Faith Leaders in Tallahassee Speak Against Mistreatment of Migrants

Pastors call for justice, due process, and unity amid immigration crackdown in Florida

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:15pm

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Local pastors in Tallahassee, including Reverend R.B. Holmes, Jr. of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, spoke out against national immigration policies and the recent crackdown in Florida. They called for fair treatment of migrants and plan to take action by visiting detention centers and holding a 'Unity and Dignity' prayer service.

Why it matters

The comments from faith leaders come amid ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement, including recent deadly shootings involving federal agents in Minnesota and the creation of controversial detention centers in Florida like 'Alligator Alcatraz' and the 'Deportation Depot'. The pastors aim to advocate for migrants' civil rights and human dignity.

The details

Reverend Holmes and other local pastors criticized Florida's recent immigration crackdown and the establishment of detention centers, arguing that migrants deserve protection and fair treatment. They plan to visit the detention centers to pray for detainees and shed light on potential civil rights violations. The pastors will also hold a 'Unity and Dignity' prayer service on Sunday to affirm the divine worth of all people and the importance of justice.

  • The faith leaders spoke out against immigration policies and the crackdown in Florida on Friday, January 31, 2026.
  • The 'Unity and Dignity' prayer service is scheduled for Sunday, February 2, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.

The players

Reverend R.B. Holmes, Jr.

The pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Tallahassee, Florida who spoke out against the mistreatment of migrants and called for justice and fair treatment.

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

A church in Tallahassee, Florida where the 'Unity and Dignity' prayer service will be held.

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What they’re saying

“I think it is high time. That we raise our voices in a spirit of compassion,courage,and love”

— Reverend R.B. Holmes, Jr., Pastor, Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

“Immigrants built this country .Immigrants strengthened this country, and immigrants are important to the value of this country”

— Reverend R.B. Holmes, Jr., Pastor, Bethel Missionary Baptist Church

What’s next

Reverend Holmes plans to visit immigration detention centers to pray for detainees and shed light on potential civil rights violations.

The takeaway

Faith leaders in Tallahassee are taking a stand against the inhumane treatment of migrants, calling for justice, due process, and unity. Their actions, including the upcoming prayer service, aim to advocate for the human dignity and civil rights of all people, regardless of immigration status.