The recent announcement from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has left local authorities in Long Beach, California, in a state of relief. According to the new list of sanctuary cities, which could face lawsuits under the Trump-era policy, Long Beach has been notably absent (Politico).
The move is seen as a significant development in the ongoing debate over immigration policies and the role of local governments in enforcing federal laws. Long Beach authorities have been vocal about their opposition to the Trump-era policy, and their absence from the new list suggests that their stance has been heard.
A Brief History of Long Beach’s Sanctuary Status
Long Beach has a long history of supporting immigrant communities, dating back to the 1980s. In 1987, the city council passed a resolution declaring Long Beach a “sanctuary city” for undocumented immigrants (Los Angeles Times). This move was a response to the growing presence of undocumented workers in the city’s workforce, as well as a recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in shaping the city’s identity.
Over the years, Long Beach has continued to strengthen its sanctuary status, becoming one of the first cities in the country to implement a municipal ID program, which allows undocumented residents to access basic services like healthcare and public transportation. Despite the changing federal landscape, the city has remained committed to its sanctuary values, which recognize the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
The DOJ’s New List of Sanctuary Cities
On January 21, 2021, the DOJ released a list of sanctuary cities that could face lawsuits under the Trump-era policy, which aims to crack down on local governments that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities (Politico). A total of 11 cities across the country made the list, including Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles.
However, Long Beach was not included in the list, sparking both relief and speculation about what this means for the community. While the city’s absence from the list is a welcome development, many are still left wondering about the implications of this move for immigrant communities in Long Beach.
What does this Mean for Long Beach’s Immigrant Communities?
The absence of Long Beach from the DOJ’s list is a significant development for the city’s immigrant communities, who have long been the subject of federal scrutiny and deportation efforts (National Immigration Project). Without the threat of lawsuits hanging over their heads, immigrant residents in Long Beach can now focus on building their lives and contributing to their community without fear of deportation or separation from their families.
The move also underscores the importance of local governance in shaping the lives of immigrant communities. By continuing to support and protect immigrant residents, Long Beach can serve as a beacon of hope and inclusivity in a state with a complex and often contentious history on immigration policy.
The Road Ahead for Long Beach and its Immigrant Communities
While the absence of Long Beach from the DOJ’s list is a cause for celebration, the city’s immigrant communities will likely continue to face challenges related to immigration enforcement and access to public services (Politico). The city must remain vigilant in its commitment to sanctuary policies, which recognize the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
Going forward, Long Beach authorities must work closely with local stakeholders, community organizations, and immigrant advocacy groups to ensure that the city’s sanctuary status is upheld and that immigrant communities continue to feel safe and supported (National Immigration Project). By doing so, the city can remain a beacon of hope and inclusivity, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the community without fear of persecution or separation from their families.
