Spokane City Council Votes to Extend Protections Against ICE Agents

The Spokane City Council voted to approve the “Safe and Welcome in Spokane” ordinance during a Legislative Session, expanding protections against immigration enforcement in designated non-public areas. These areas include public rights of way that are not generally accessible or restricted during special events. Council Member Paul Dillon stated that the ordinance reaffirms the city’s commitment to safety and respect for all residents. This measure follows Ordinance C35681 from 2018, which aimed to prevent warrantless entry by federal immigration officials but did not address public rights of way. Recent increases in federal immigration enforcement, particularly following civil unrest, prompted the amendment and reintroduction of this ordinance.

The city aims to create an environment where residents feel secure and respected, free from the fear of unwarranted immigration actions. For more details on the ordinance, the city encourages residents to check the FAQs on its website. This legislative move reflects broader trends in local immigration policy and community safety initiatives.