Update on ICE in Portland
Councilor Morillo leads initiatives in Portland to safeguard immigrants from increased targeting by ICE under President Trump's administration. As a Sanctuary City, Portland restricts local law enforcement from engaging with ICE, but federal authority complicates enforcement. Strategies include requiring ICE agents to visibly identify themselves during enforcement actions, addressing the use of chemical munitions against protesters, and relocating the Cottonwood School away from harmful areas. Reports indicate that chemical agents used by ICE contain carcinogens, raising health concerns among local residents. Morillo's office is also probing data privacy issues, as federal surveillance technologies continue to threaten civil liberties despite local bans.
The City Council monitors ICE's operations, reviewing permits and potential violations. Collaboration with organizations like the ACLU and Oregon For All aims to enhance immigrant protections. These actions reflect a commitment to community safety and civil rights amid federal overreach.