For far too long, we have witnessed the devastating impacts of aggressive federal immigration enforcement — led by ICE — intensify across Santa Barbara County. We have heard directly from residents, families, educators, and business owners about the fear, disruption, trauma and instability these operations are causing. Parents are afraid to take their children to school. Workers are avoiding public spaces. Businesses are losing customers. People are forgoing medical appointments. Entire neighborhoods are living with a level of anxiety that no community should have to endure.
This is not about partisanship. It is about standing up for our community. It is about ensuring that public spaces remain safe, that our elections remain free, and that local voices matter.
Let’s be clear: However one may feel about the broader national debate on immigration policies, the way these enforcement actions are being carried out is harming our community and making us less safe. And as local elected leaders, we have a responsibility to respond.