National Boycott of California Over Prop. 187 May Broaden

Activists planning a national boycott of California over its anti-immigration measure said Sunday that they may also target Disney, Chevron, ARCO, and Mervyn’s department stores.

Organizers said the corporations contributed to Republican Gov. Pete Wilson or the Proposition 187 campaign. Wilson’s strong endorsement of the ballot measure helped his Nov. 8 reelection.

The measure, which is on hold pending court challenges, denies educational, health and other benefits to illegal immigrants.

Some organizations, including a Latino journalists’ group and the Mexico City-based World Boxing Council, have already canceled meetings they had planned in California.

A weekend conference in Tucson to organize the boycott drew about 40 immigrant-rights representatives from 11 states.

Roberto Martinez of the American Friends Service Committee in San Diego said he thinks an effective campaign discouraging tourists and conventions can be launched by early next year.

“Rather than demoralize us, the passage of 187 has reinforced our commitment to organize, mobilize and educate all people of goodwill in the defense of human rights,” said Maria Jimenez of the American Friends Service Committee in Houston.