by Jyoti Parmar, Executive Director, North Central Florida Indivisible
North Central Florida Indivisible (NCFI) has launched the Gainesville edition of Signs of Solidarity, a nationwide Indivisible project that helps local businesses stand in solidarity with immigrants and resist efforts to erode civil rights.
The campaign is simple but powerful. Volunteers visit local businesses to share information about the rights of owners and employees in the event of an immigration raid, whether by ICE or state law enforcement. They provide reliable resources and invite businesses to display a sign publicly expressing support for immigrants, employees, customers, and neighbors. These signs not only make workplaces feel safer but also affirm basic constitutional rights, including protections under the 14th Amendment.
Immigrants—and people perceived as immigrants—have become targets of cruelty and intimidation. NCFI organizers say that the mistreatment of immigrants often serves as a test case for stripping rights from anyone outside the MAGA fold. Launching Signs of Solidarity in Gainesville is a way to push back and show that the community values dignity, safety, and fairness for all.
NCFI’s first canvass took place on October 25 and was a major success, with most businesses welcoming volunteers warmly. The project is ongoing, with new volunteers being trained to continue outreach and education. Each conversation helps create stronger ties between workers, business owners, and community members.
National Indivisible launched Signs of Solidarity as part of its broader effort to defend democracy and protect vulnerable communities. The campaign redefines activism, turning everyday spaces like cafés, stores, workplaces into visible affirmations of inclusion. Every sign in a window sends a simple message: You are welcome here.
In a time when fear is used to divide, Gainesville’s Signs of Solidarity project shows that compassion, courage, and community can build a safer, more just America.
To join our Signs of Solidarity project, email us at NCFindivisible+SOS@gmail.com or join us thru this QR Code.