Introduction to the Issue
Detainees of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are being held in Glendale, in what some immigration advocates are calling a violation of California’s sanctuary state law.
Since January, 82 people have been detained by ICE and housed in the Glendale City Jail. A city spokesperson told NBC4 those detainees spend between six to 12 hours in the jail facility, but they are not fingerprinted or booked.
The City’s Perspective
The city insists the jail simply provides a bed, food, water, and medical care to the individuals. They add that they do not house any minors and that the city has had a contract with ICE since 2007. In 2017, Senate Bill 54 was passed, making California the first sanctuary state in the nation. Under the bill, state and local law enforcement are prohibited from allowing federal immigration authorities to use space in their facility.
Criticisms and Concerns
Andres Kwon, with the American Civil Liberties Union, calls the city’s agreement with ICE a violation of California law. "Ultimately and effectively, this Glendale contract with ICE is helping the Trump administration carry out its mass deportation agenda that is racist and has abused countless peoples, constitutional, civil and human rights," said Andres Kwon. "It’s shocking Glendale has this contract and it should end immediately."
Community Response
At a city council meeting this week, an immigration attorney claimed her client was not provided food at the facility and urged the council to reconsider the contract. Councilmember Elen Asatryan insisted the city is in full compliance with SB 54, according to Glendale’s police chief.
Conclusion
The issue of Glendale housing ICE detainees in its jail raises significant questions about the city’s compliance with California’s sanctuary state law. While the city maintains that it is providing only basic necessities and is in compliance with the law, critics argue that the contract with ICE is a violation of the state’s sanctuary policy. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the city will respond to the concerns of immigration advocates and the community.
FAQs
Q: What is the sanctuary state law in California?
A: The sanctuary state law, also known as Senate Bill 54, prohibits state and local law enforcement from allowing federal immigration authorities to use space in their facilities.
Q: How many ICE detainees have been housed in the Glendale City Jail?
A: Since January, 82 people have been detained by ICE and housed in the Glendale City Jail.
Q: What services does the Glendale City Jail provide to ICE detainees?
A: The jail provides a bed, food, water, and medical care to the individuals.
Q: Is the city’s contract with ICE a violation of California law?
A: Critics, including the American Civil Liberties Union, argue that the contract is a violation of the state’s sanctuary policy, but the city maintains that it is in compliance with the law.
