NEW ORLEANS - Immigration activists are accusing the federal appeals court in New Orleans of delaying a ruling about President Barack Obama's immigration proposal in an effort to prevent it from reaching the U.S. Supreme Court during the current term.

At a news conference Thursday, speakers with the Fair Immigration Reform Movement said they'll fast and pray at a park across the street from the federal courthouse for nine days. They're urging the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to rule within that time.

A three-judge panel heard arguments July 10 on Obama's proposal to shield an estimated 5 million people from deportation. The court says on its website that it tries to issue opinions within 60 days after arguments.

The judges did not immediately respond to requests for comment.