In the midst of growing sentiments of xenophobia and otherism, it is incumbent upon all of us to stand up and protect our values as an inclusive vibrant community. I am proud to both live and serve in a district that knows immigrants are a welcomed strength and an asset to our community. As Chairman of the Judicial Proceedings Committee, I have led efforts to protect our immigrant communities from lawless and warrantless actions by preventing immigration enforcement in sensitive locations like schools, hospitals, and religious institutions, unless the agents possess a judicial warrant, or exigent circumstances exist. I have also worked to took critical steps to streamline the U-Visa application process for immigrants who are victims of crime or who are aiding police investigations – thereby encouraging people to report violent behavior and crime without the fear of being deported for doing so.
Though I am proud of what we have done to protect our immigrant community, I am under no illusion that we have done enough. I will continue to work in the months ahead to ensure that we do everything in our power to live our values and protect our communities.