Washingtoner - Tacoma City Council Reaffirms Commitment to Immigrants and Refugees, Supports Ongoing State and Federal Advocacy

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~ In a unanimous decision, the Tacoma City Council has adopted Substitute Resolution 41905, reaffirming their commitment to immigrants and refugees and showing support for ongoing state and federal advocacy. The resolution was introduced by District 4 Council Member Sandesh Sadalge, with co-sponsors At-Large Council Members Olgy Diaz, Latasha Palmer, and Kristina Walker.

Council Member Sadalge, who is a foreign-born immigrant himself, spoke about the fear and anxiety that the current federal administration's actions and policies have caused in immigrant communities. He emphasized the city's responsibility to protect these communities and push for state and federal action.

The resolution condemns the pattern of aggressive and unjust enforcement actions carried out by federal immigration authorities. It also reiterates the council's long-standing opposition to private, for-profit detention centers. The council strongly supports Washington State's efforts to impose strict oversight on these facilities through independent inspections, mandatory compliance standards, and consequences for violations.

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Council Member Diaz highlighted the voices of Tacomans who have been advocating for more oversight of U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). She stated that the entire council stands in solidarity with immigrant and refugee communities who continue to be targeted. She also credited the gains made in this year's Washington State Legislature to the voices of people in Tacoma and across the state.

The resolution calls on Congress to implement significant measures to regulate DHS operations in communities. These measures include requiring a judicial warrant before any enforcement actions are taken, ending the use of masked agents during immigration operations, and ensuring transparent investigations are conducted for all deaths involving federal agents or law enforcement.

The City Council also reaffirmed their support for the Keep Washington Working Act and urged state leaders to closely monitor data sharing agreements between state agencies and federal agencies. They also called for a formal review to ensure compliance with the Act and provide additional training for local governments on how to respond to ICE activities.

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At-Large Council Member Latasha Palmer expressed her horror at the lack of compassion and respect shown by many ICE officers across the country. She made it clear that this behavior is not welcome in Tacoma and that she will do everything in her power to ensure the city does not support or benefit from actions that harm community members. She encouraged everyone to learn about their rights and stand in solidarity with those who are unfairly targeted.

At-Large Council Member Kristina Walker, who has been working on issues related to the Northwest ICE Processing Center for the past five years, expressed her support for the resolution. She emphasized that being a welcoming city is a fundamental part of Tacoma's identity and promised to continue advocating for inclusivity and support for immigrant and refugee community members.

To better serve the diverse needs of residents and local businesses, the City of Tacoma has a dedicated Immigration Resources webpage at tacoma.gov/immigrationresources. This webpage provides information on resources available to immigrants and refugees in the city.

The adoption of Substitute Resolution 41905 by the Tacoma City Council reaffirms their commitment to protecting immigrant and refugee communities and advocating for their rights at both state and federal levels. The council stands united in their support for these communities and will continue working towards creating a welcoming and inclusive city for all residents.

Filed Under: Government, City

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