Boone, N.C. – Two local organizations are working to strengthen community ties and provide essential resources for Boone's Hispanic and Latino residents. Q’Pasa Appalachia and the Immigrant Justice Coalition (IJC) focus on educating, connecting, and supporting this vital part of the High Country community, particularly by fostering trust with local law enforcement.
Yolanda Adams, who co-founded Q’Pasa Appalachia with Iris Straube in 2020, explained that the organization became an essential resource, especially during the pandemic. Adams noted that there was a significant amount of information that needed to be shared, not only about the educational system but also about the community in general. She observed a willingness from many Boone businesses and organizations to help the Hispanic and Latino community, but a lack of a direct communication link. Adams explained that Q’Pasa Appalachia became "that bridge" between the Hispanic and Latino community and the general community, aiming to foster unity and mutual aid. The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce also played a supportive role in connecting these communities, with Adams collaborating closely with them as a former board member.
Sarah Donovan, a board member for IJC, said her group works to bridge the gap between different lifestyles in Boone. The IJC aims to educate people, build community, and remove obstacles that can hinder immigrant neighbors from living and prospering in the area.
A significant effort by Q'Pasa Appalachia involved building trust and dialogue between the Hispanic and Latino community and local law enforcement. Adams characterized this trust-building as "very uncommon in other communities." These efforts included regular meetings, known as “Café con leche,” where attendees discussed local rules and regulations, alongside updates on immigration matters. Adams noted that direct conversation, rather than relying on media narratives, consistently helps people find common ground, as was the case with law enforcement. Over time, these meetings became regular, and community members grew more comfortable interacting with the police.
The IJC has also engaged with authorities to help protect Boone’s Hispanic and Latino community, including discussions about policies related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Donovan noted that IJC representatives had "very useful and revealing" conversations with the sheriff's office concerning certain laws that could mandate closer cooperation between local authorities and ICE.
These discussions have become even more critical following the passage of the North Carolina Border Protection Act in June, after the House Republicans overrode Governor Josh Stein's veto. This state legislation locally requires both the sheriff's office and the Boone Police Department to cooperate with ICE, effectively granting more power and authority to immigration officials in the High Country region. Donovan stated that the community has seen an increase in arrests and detentions, with ICE picking up individuals directly from the Watauga County local jail as a result of this legislation. She emphasized the importance of public awareness that federal and state policies have direct local effects, impacting families within the community.
Despite the complexities of a polarized political climate and increasingly stringent immigration regulations, Adams reported that community members continue to attend every meeting to learn and support each other. Adams proudly noted, "We are the exception," highlighting that over a hundred people attend each meeting because they want to participate. She also pointed to the support from Boone’s law enforcement, which assures Hispanic and Latino community members that they belong and will be treated like any other resident. Donovan added that the community demonstrates mutual support, with individuals not directly affected by immigration issues still wanting to help others "feel welcome, safe, and at home."
