Phoenix council rejects proposals backers said would cut immigration enforcement

The Phoenix City Council voted 8-1 on June 18 to reject a citizen petition aimed at reducing police immigration enforcement practices. Advocates argued that the proposed changes would minimize racial profiling and unnecessary arrests, thereby addressing community fears of deportation. The petition suggested prioritizing citations for nonviolent offenses and eliminating low-level traffic stops, among other reforms. City officials highlighted ongoing police reform efforts, including a new use-of-force policy and enhanced data transparency. Miros Mejia of Poder in Action emphasized that current measures do not adequately protect immigrant communities.

Community members gathered outside the council chambers, sharing personal stories and expressing their desire for safety and respect. They criticized the council for its police budget exceeding $1 billion, despite ongoing issues identified by the U. S. Department of Justice. Although Phoenix police officials stated they do not engage in federal deportation activities, residents remain concerned about the arrest-to-deportation pipeline linked to county jail practices.