Crowds protest outside SB1070 hearing in Phoenix

PHOENIX - Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the federal courthouse in Phoenix, where a judge heard arguments about whether to block Arizona's tough new law targeting illegal immigration.

Dozens opposed to the measure carried paper doves attached to plants representing olive branches, a symbol of peace. Others beat on a drum while singing and dancing, and some drivers honked their horns as they passed before police shut down Washington Street in front of the courthouse.

Seven people were arrested as they blocked traffic at 4th Avenue and Washington Street, holding a sign reading, "Stop SB1070: We Will not Comply." The street was cordoned off in front of the courthouse and police dressed in riot gear.

According to Phoenix Police spokesman Steve Martos, the protesters were told they had two hours to protest and were then told to disperse. When they didn't the seven were taken into custody without incident.

The protesters said they want to show civil disobedience and even if the law goes into effect they won't comply.

Some supporters of the law waved signs and clutched American flags, and about a half dozen had handguns hanging from their hips.

Overcast skies and a strong breeze gave everyone a break from typically searing heat, but rare humidity was making some sweaty and uncomfortable.

Outside the courthouse, opponents gathered in prayer before the hearing started and carrying paper doves attached to plants representing olive branches, a symbol of peace.

Sarah Fox, a 64-year-old Phoenix nurse, said the new law takes the country's economic problems out on immigrants, who she believes are being used as a scapegoat.

"It's morally wrong," she said. "I'm getting old and I don't have many years left to speak out against what is wrong."

Leighanna Hildago Newton was also protesting, concerned people will be targeted because of the color of their skin.

"You can't get pulled over for looking brown. What does looking illegal look like," Newton said.

Supporters of the law waved signs, some reading "Illegal is illegal," and clutched American flags.

Debbi MacNicol, a 55-year-old Phoenix psychiatric nurse who carried a gun on her hip and wore a T-shirt that read "Don't Tread on Me," said she supports the law because she fears Mexico's drug war will spill over into Arizona.

"It wasn't as much an issue until it started putting our lives at risk," she said.

Renee Taylor also showed her support for the law with a sign.

"The illegals need to come here legally," Taylor said.