Here are some statements from local elected leaders on the federal immigration ban halting refugees from entering the United States and detaining incoming refugees, green card holders, and others at airports around the country:
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA)
“The executive order on immigration flies in the face of core American values and is hurting U.S. interests. As a country, we can find better ways to strengthen security through increased information sharing, law enforcement cooperation, and the use of biometrics and technology.
“We are a country that treats everyone equally under the law and that believes in due process. We do not discriminate based on national origin or religion. The executive order is likely unconstitutional and should be challenged in federal courts.
“Our state has a proud tradition of resettling refugees from all over the world including Cambodia, Vietnam, and Somalia. We have a stronger economy and more dynamic high-tech workforce thanks to diversity. Likewise, the U.S. benefits from immigration. Our country must continue to do its part to help Syrian refugees who are suffering the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II, as well as others fleeing from persecution.”
U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
“It is abhorrent that during his first week in office, President Trump is planning to slam the door on thousands of people, many of whom are women and children fleeing horrific violence in one of the worst refugee crisis in recent history.”
“America has long been a place of safety for people around the world fleeing religious, political, and gender-based persecution and violence. So much of what makes America great is our diversity – and I urge this Administration to work to further our national security, not merely target individuals based on their religion or nationality.”
Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (D-WA)
“President Trump’s irresponsible executive order created chaos for many families today.”
“I’m glad the Western District of Washington stepped in to delay part of the order thanks to the hard work of the ACLU of Washington and the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. We don’t need to close our doors to keep Americans safe and we still have work ahead to ensure the President ends his cruel targeting of individuals based on religion and nationality.”
King County Executive Dow Constantine
“The administration’s action against immigrants and refugees betrays the fundamental principle that has guided our nation since its inception: that we welcome people who come here fleeing tyranny, fleeing oppression, seeking a better life. We do not build walls. We demand that they be torn down. We do not ask people to show their papers when they report a crime or bring their sick child to a clinic.
We do not push children and families into the shadows, and sow fear among our neighbors who may look or speak or pray differently than the majority. King County proudly upholds the fundamental, self-evident truth announced at our nation’s founding: that all are created equal. We embrace the basic American value that we are a nation of opportunity for all. Immigrants and refugees are welcome here, and our region has acted decisively to become more inclusive, removing barriers to affordable housing, transit, and support to help children.
Now, in this toxic environment, we must do even more. We will offer even greater assistance to community partners providing legal services and immigration assistance. We will increase support and resources to those who can gain citizenship. We will work with local cities and other counties to establish stronger safeguards to protect undocumented immigrants and refugees.
Martin Luther King Jr. County is a place where everyone – regardless of where they started in life – has the opportunity to flourish. Today’s actions by the administration, and those actions we expect are to come, serve only to strengthen our resolve, and draw our community closer.”
Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson
“The President’s executive order on immigration is un-American and unconstitutional.
“My team and I are working this weekend to explore our options to oppose this illegal action.
“The rule of law applies to everyone — including President Trump — and I will use the authority of my office to hold him accountable to it.”
