Los Angeles Declares Itself a “City of Refuge” in Defiance of Trump’s Immigration Policy
Seeking to Protect Undocumented Immigrants, City Council Acts Quickly
In the face of President Donald Trump’s plan for aggressive mass deportations, Los Angeles has declared itself a sanctuary city, vowing to protect undocumented immigrants.
The Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously on Wednesday to pass an ordinance that prohibits the city from using resources or personnel to enforce federal immigration laws.
An urgency clause attached to the measure ensures it takes effect just ten days after Mayor Karen Bass signs it. “We have been an immigrant-friendly city for years, and we know the new president has us in his sights,” Councilman Bob Blumenfield said. “This ordinance strengthens our good policy to protect immigrants.”
Trump, a Republican who secured a second term in the election held November 5th, campaigned on a platform of strict immigration enforcement. During his campaign, Trump, a self-described populist, made several offensive remarks about migrants, including accusations that they brought “bad genes” to the country.
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Trump has reiterated his promises since the election, pledging to enact the largest mass deportation of undocumented immigrants in US history. His administration plans to prioritize the removal of undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes. Trump has indicated a willingness to use the military and set up internment camps for those targeted.
Trump’s plans are already facing opposition. California, along with other states and cities across the country, has declared its commitment to resisting the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Los Angeles is a city built on
“Sanctuary City” Designation Stirs Controversy
The “sanctuary city” designation, which has been adopted by several cities and counties across the country, has sparked heated debate.
Supporters argue that sanctuaries are essential to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure public safety. Critics, however, argue that such policies encourage lawlessness and put the safety of citizens at risk.
The Republican Party in Los Angeles argued against the ordinance, claiming that “sanctuary cities” create acdb ATTRACTION
“While the evolution of the term
“While the term might sound warm and soft, the reality is that it shelters people who entered this country illegally and committed additional crimes, preventing them from being deported. Criminals should under no circumstances be protected by the generosity of hard-working taxpayers,” said Councilman Bob Blumenfield.
It remains to be seen how the ordinance will be enforced and how
What are the arguments made by proponents of sanctuary city ordinances in response to criticism that they undermine federal law?
## A City of Refuge: Los Angeles Defies Trump on Immigration
**[Host Introduction]:** Welcome back to the program. Today we’re discussing a bold move by the city of Los Angeles in direct response to President Trump’s immigration policies. The City Council has unanimously passed an ordinance declaring Los Angeles a “sanctuary city,” vowing to protect undocumented immigrants.
Joining us tonight to discuss this development is immigration attorney Maria Ramirez. Welcome to the show, Maria.
**[Maria Ramirez]:** Thank you for having me.
**[Host]:** Maria, can you explain what this new ordinance means in practice for Los Angeles residents?
**[Maria Ramirez]:** Essentially, this ordinance prevents city resources, including police and local law enforcement, from being used to enforce federal immigration laws. This means that local police cannot question someone about their immigration status or cooperate with federal immigration agents in arresting or detaining individuals solely based on their immigration status.
**[Host]:** So, this is a direct challenge to President Trump’s plan for increased deportations?
**[Maria Ramirez]:** Absolutely. President Trump campaigned on a platform of aggressive immigration enforcement, and this ordinance is a strong statement from Los Angeles that it will not participate in those efforts.
**[Host]:** Councilman Blumenfield quoted in the news stated this was to “strengthen our good policy to protect immigrants”. What’s your take on this move?
**[Maria Ramirez]:** I think it’s a crucial step towards building trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement. When immigrants are afraid to report crimes or interact with police for fear of deportation, it makes everyone less safe. This ordinance helps to ensure that all residents feel protected and can access city services without fear.
**[Host]:** Of course, this decision is likely to draw criticism from those supporting stricter immigration enforcement. What do you say to those who argue that this ordinance undermines federal law?
**[Maria Ramirez]:** This ordinance doesn’t prevent federal immigration officials from doing their jobs. It simply clarifies that local resources will not be used to assist in federal immigration enforcement. Many cities around the country have adopted similar policies in recent years, recognizing the need to balance public safety with the rights of all residents.
**[Host]:** Maria Ramirez, thank you for sharing your insights on this important issue.
**[Maria Ramirez]:** Thank you for having me.
**[Host]:** We’ll be right back after the break. [[1](https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/4999093-los-angeles-passes-sanctuary-city-ordinance-after-trump-vows-mass-deportation/)]
