Republicans in Congress are focusing on four cities known as 'sanctuary cities' for their policies limiting cooperation with immigration enforcement. The mayors of Boston, Chicago, Denver, and New York are set to appear before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform this week.
Sanctuary Policies Overview
Sanctuary policies generally involve limited cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While ICE enforces U.S. immigration laws nationwide, some cities and states argue that full cooperation could deter victims of crime and witnesses who are not in the U.S. legally from coming forward. These localities aim to create welcoming environments for immigrants.
City-Specific Policies and Trends
Boston
Boston's Trust Act restricts police cooperation with ICE, with exceptions for certain cases like combating human trafficking. The city must adhere to a 2017 state court ruling that limits holding individuals based solely on federal requests.
Chicago
Chicago has strong immigrant protections dating back to the 1980s, including ordinances barring federal agents from accessing city resources for immigration operations. Mayor Brandon Johnson has upheld these policies, emphasizing the city's welcoming stance towards immigrants.
Denver
Denver has seen an influx of immigrants, with Mayor Mike Johnston facing challenges in providing resources for arrivals. The city aims to be welcoming while prioritizing public safety, especially regarding violent crimes.
New York
New York City has accommodated a significant number of immigrants, incurring substantial costs for support services. Mayor Eric Adams supports policies ensuring access to social services for all residents, but he seeks changes to allow cooperation with immigration enforcement for public safety reasons.
Challenges and Responses
These cities face varying pressures regarding immigration policies, with debates on balancing public safety, immigrant rights, and federal regulations. The upcoming hearing will shed light on the complexities of sanctuary city practices amidst the broader immigration landscape.
