Marianne LaBarge City Councilor | Ward 6 | Northampton, MA

WARD 6

         CITY COUNCILOR

MARIANNE LABARGE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Text Box: Statement Reaffirming Northampton’s Commitment to Inclusion and Sanctuary   November 18, 2024   We, the undersigned leaders of the City of Northampton, reaffirm our unwavering commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive, and equitable community. These principles are foundational to who we are as a city and are enshrined in our laws, policies, and actions. Today, as always, we stand united in support of all who live in, work in, or visit Northampton, regardless of their immigration status, gender identity, or other protected characteristics. Northampton is dedicated to fostering safety and dignity for all members of our community.   On November 14, 2024, we became aware that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was reportedly in pursuit of a specific individual in Northampton. This action was carried out independently, and the Northampton Police Department was not involved in any way. The enforcement of federal immigration laws is outside the authority of local law enforcement, and Northampton has a long-standing policy of non-cooperation with such actions to the extent permissible by law. Northampton has no further information about this action by ICE.   Northampton’s commitment to sanctuary has been repeatedly affirmed over the years. In 2011, the City Council unanimously adopted “A Resolution of the Northampton City Council on the Secure Communities Program,” expressing its opposition to federal immigration enforcement programs and urging the city to prioritize community trust and public safety.    In 2014, an Executive Policy Order by Mayor David Narkewicz formally prohibited the Northampton Police Department from honoring ICE detainer requests that were non-criminal and not supported by a judicial warrant.   Next, these principles were codified in Northampton’s “Safe City” Ordinance, in Article III, Sections 241-8 through 241-10 of the City of Northampton Code of Ordinances, which was adopted on December 5, 2019. Mayor Sciarra, then a city councilor, was a co-sponsor of the ordinance that affirms that city resources shall not be used:   To determine the immigration status of a person unless such inquiry is required by state or federal law or to provide a public benefit. To take action on the basis of actual or perceived immigration status, unless to provide a public benefit. To neither detain nor delay the release of an individual otherwise eligible for release from custody on the basis of an immigration detainer. To perform the functions of an immigration officer, whether pursuant to 8 U.S.C. § 1357(g) or any other law, regulation, or policy, whether formal or informal. And that: A person's immigration status shall not prohibit or inhibit the City's participation in any government operation or program that confers an immigration benefit, including temporarily or permanently protecting noncitizens from removal as provided through programs such as the U Visa, the T Visa, and the federal Violence Against Women Act.   These policies and ordinances, bolstered by resolutions and city actions, remain in effect today. They reflect the values of Northampton leaders, supported by the tireless advocacy of Northampton’s caring residents, community groups, and legal organizations.    Furthermore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the rights and privacy of all individuals, including those seeking reproductive or gender-affirming care. Today, Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra issued a new Executive Policy Order that reaffirms and strengthens Northampton’s dedication to these protections. The order builds upon Massachusetts’ 2022 legislation, which safeguards individuals seeking sanctuary from out-of-state investigations and ensures that no city resources are used to assist with investigations or actions targeting lawful healthcare activities, including gender-affirming care.    This action aligns with Northampton’s long-standing values. Mayor Sciarra thanks the City Council for its recent adoption of Resolution R-24.146, which declared Northampton a sanctuary city for transgender and gender-diverse individuals. Together, these measures underscore Northampton’s unwavering dedication to ensuring equity, dignity, and safety for all.   We affirm that Northampton is, and will remain, a community where all are treated with dignity and humanity. Our commitment to these values is unwavering. We remain united in our belief that inclusion and equity are the cornerstones of a just and vibrant community.   Signed, Gina-Louise Sciarra, Mayor John Cartledge, Chief of Police Merridith O'Leary, Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner   For more information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 413-587-1249 or mayor@northamptonma.gov.      -- Office of Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra City of Northampton 210 Main Street, Room 12 Northampton MA 01060 413-587-1249 phone 413-587-1275 fax www.northamptonma.gov