Spokane City Council Members Introduce "Immigration Enforcement Free Zones"
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~ At the Public Safety and Community Health committee meeting held today, Spokane City Council Members introduced a new ordinance aimed at protecting the rights of immigrant communities. The proposed "Immigration Enforcement Free Zone" ordinance, sponsored by Council Members Sarah Dixit, Paul Dillon, and Kate Telis, seeks to prohibit staging and surveillance on city-owned property and parking lots without a judicial warrant.

Council Member Sarah Dixit emphasized the importance of inclusivity in Spokane, stating that all residents, regardless of their immigration status, belong in the community. She expressed concern over the presence of Federal Immigration Forces in cities across the country and stressed the need for the city to take action to protect its community members. The proposed ordinance aims to prevent city resources from being used for what she referred to as "illegal terror campaigns" against neighbors.

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Under this ordinance, city departments will be required to identify all relevant properties and display signage indicating that they may not be used for immigration enforcement without a warrant. In case of any violations, legal options will be available to seek judicial relief.

Council Member Kate Telis highlighted recent events across the country as evidence of the need for Spokane to take steps in protecting its residents from unconstitutional violations of their Fourth Amendment right to privacy. She stated that this ordinance would strengthen those protections by clarifying that city property cannot be used for any warrantless immigration enforcement operations.

Echoing similar sentiments, Council Member Paul Dillon emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of residents and immigrant communities in Spokane. He stressed that strengthening the prohibition of city resources for immigration enforcement is crucial in ensuring community safety and trust.

The Council is set to vote on this ordinance at its Legislative Session on February 23rd. If passed, it will serve as a significant step towards safeguarding the rights and well-being of immigrant communities in Spokane.

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