FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Michael Cox 503-823-6593
Portland City Council to Resolve That Portland is a Safe, Welcoming, Inclusive City
City Commissioners to Reaffirm Commitment to and Support of All Residents of Portland,
Regardless of Documentation Status
PORTLAND, OR – Today, which the United States Conference of Mayors has dubbed “Cities’ Day of Immigration Action,” Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler announced that the City Council will vote to approve a resolution reaffirming the City’s Sanctuary City designation tomorrow, March 22nd at 2:00PM. The vote will take place after community testimony.
“Portland is a thriving city because we have a population with diverse backgrounds who contribute positively to the fabric of our community,” said Mayor Wheeler. “Our welcoming attitude towards all residents of our community is a core component of our identity. The City of Portland will remain a welcoming, safe place for all people.”
At the regular Portland City Council Meeting tomorrow, City Commissioners will hear testimony and vote on a resolution to celebrate and support diversity, strengthen regional partnerships, and encourage Portlanders to unite and work together to reject hatred and divisiveness. The resolution will direct City officials to develop and implement a training program informing city staff how to respond to interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
"I am proud to live in a city that is willing to take a stand to protect its residents regardless of immigration status by affirming our standing as a Sanctuary City,” said Commissioner Chloe Eudaly. “We must act together with the county and state to build a wall of resistance around our neighbors to prevent Trump's deportation agenda from terrorizing communities and tearing apart families in Portland."
“President Trump leads by disrupting and destabilizing, and he’s targeting immigrants and refugees. Portland leads by staying true to our values. Today, we reaffirm that we are a Sanctuary City where all people are welcome and safe,” said Commissioner Nick Fish.
“As a first-generation immigrant, I will continue to work to provide support for others to enjoy the opportunities I was given in this great land. I appreciate Portlanders’ resolve to unite and work together to promote kindness and understanding in our shared community, rejecting hatred as we strive to protect the freedoms we all hold dear,” said Commissioner Amanda Fritz.
“Residents around our country and in our community are living in fear and uncertainty of being able to keep their families safe and together” said Commissioner Dan Saltzman. “This resolution makes it clear ‘we have your back’ and will do everything we can to protect you as our neighbors.”
To view the March 22 City Council Meeting and agenda, please visit https://www.portlandoregon.gov/….
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