The Los Angeles City Council has passed a new ordinance to ensure the protection of immigrants residing in the city. On November 19, the Council unanimously approved the “Sanctuary City Ordinance,” which prohibits the use of any city resources or personnel to enforce federal immigration laws. This measure was reported by Reuters.
Councilmember Paul Krekorian stated, “We want to tell our immigrant community that we understand their fears. We stand by them.”
This move comes as a response to the threat of mass deportations under President-elect Donald Trump. The ordinance now includes protections for immigrants as part of Los Angeles’ municipal law.
Before the ordinance was passed, pro-immigrant protesters gathered on the steps of City Hall holding signs that read “We Want Sanctuary City in Los Angeles!” Chanting in Spanish, they shouted, “What do we want? Shelter. When do we want it? Now!”
Approximately 1.3 million immigrants live in Los Angeles, though there is no precise data on how many entered the city legally. According to the City Council, nearly one-third of the city’s population are immigrants, a situation that has raised significant concern among local authorities.
Shiu-Ming Sher, deputy director of the California Immigration Policy Center, said, “The Trump administration’s plans have created fear among immigrants. Many believe that the National Guard or other agencies will be forced to deport them, but I want to reassure everyone: there is no need to fear. We stand united.”
According to the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, 11 states in the US have taken steps to reduce cooperation with federal immigration enforcement in varying degrees.
Trump’s transition team declined to comment on the matter.
