Know Your Rights

What are Sanctuary Cities?

They are cities, counties and/or states with an ordinance or law that prohibits local law enforcement, city/state agencies, or local resources to be used to do the work of federal immigration enforcement. The Sanctuary movement was born of the solidarity movement with Central America and other war torn nations during the 1980’s. In 1989, Salvadoran refugees, faith congregations and allies worked to pass San Francisco’s Sanctuary Ordinance, making it the first in the nation. Since, we have strengthened our local policy by protecting and expanding Due Process locally, and seeing the adoption of local Sanctuary policies across the country, because time and time again, Sanctuary City policies have been proven to benefit localities, increase civic engagement, and promote inclusion of all people in cities regardless of their faith, political views, gender identity, country of origin or migratory status.

Why are Sanctuary Cities Important?

Sanctuary Cities promote public trust in law enforcement and cooperation from their citizenry. Communities feel safe by making sure that all residents, regardless of their immigration status, feel comfortable calling the police and fire departments during emergencies as well as cooperating with city agencies during public safety occurrences. Sanctuary cities also promote a healthy population as all residents, regardless of their legal status, feel safe when accessing health benefits and other services provided by the city. Sanctuary City policies are also a statement of values, by promoting welcoming cities for all and recognizing the critical contributions people who migrate make to the economic, cultural, social and civic fabric of cities, states and the nation.