Sanctuary cities in New York, California and Washington D.C.: A haven for immigrants in the Trump era
Sanctuary cities not only provide a safe haven, but also represent a conflict between local governments and the Trump administration, which has stepped up efforts to implement tougher measures against these jurisdictions.
Sanctuary cities in California, Washington and New York have become bastions of protection for undocumented immigrants in defiance of President Donald Trump's deportation policies. Despite attempts to cut federal funding, these jurisdictions remain committed to the migrant community.
Since the 1980s, the sanctuary city concept has evolved, allowing more than 200 jurisdictions in the US to adopt policies that limit cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This article explores how these cities have resisted pressure from the federal government and defended the rights of immigrants.
The Sanctuary Movement and Sanctuary Cities in the United States, from Reagan to Trump. Photo: Observatoire.
Sanctuary cities across the United States
California is home to some of the most iconic sanctuary cities in the country. These include Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Oakland and Santa Ana. These cities have implemented regulations that limit cooperation with ICE, thus ensuring the safety of undocumented immigrants. Despite threats of funding cuts, local authorities continue to defend the migrant community.
In New York, New York City (NYC) and other jurisdictions such as Albany and Westchester County have adopted similar policies. These cities have strengthened their laws to protect immigrants from deportations, creating a safer environment for those seeking a better life in the US. The resistance of these cities to Trump's policies has been a recurring theme in the national immigration debate.
Washington also has several sanctuary cities, including Seattle and Tacoma. These jurisdictions have established measures to protect immigrants, limiting cooperation with ICE and ensuring that the rights of undocumented immigrants are respected. Upholding these policies has been crucial in a context where deportations have increased significantly.
How did the term ‘sanctuary city’ come about?
The term ‘sanctuary city’ originated in the 1980s, when communities began offering refuge to Central American migrants fleeing war. Over time, these practices became institutionalised, and local governments began to pass laws limiting cooperation with the federal government on migration issues. Today, more than 200 jurisdictions in the US have adopted some form of sanctuary policy.
During his first administration, Donald Trump attempted to eliminate federal funding to sanctuary cities, arguing that these jurisdictions put public safety at risk. Despite his efforts, including executive orders to block federal grants, the measures were blocked by federal courts. In 2020, the US Supreme Court ruled in favour of sanctuary cities, allowing them to retain their federal funding. Despite the Supreme Court decision, Trump has stated his intention to crack down harder on sanctuary cities if he returns to power. The fight for immigrant rights continues, and these cities remain steadfast in their commitment to protect those seeking a better life in the United States.