In a move aimed at safeguarding vulnerable community spaces, a group of Democratic state Senators has introduced legislation to limit immigration enforcement in designated “sensitive locations.” These areas encompass schools, hospitals, social service centers, and places of worship.
Religious leaders have voiced strong support for the bill during Senate hearings, emphasizing its alignment with their spiritual beliefs. Bishop David Bard of the United Methodist Church highlighted the timeliness of the proposal, drawing parallels to biblical narratives.
“After the birth of Jesus, Joseph and Mary and Jesus had to flee to Egypt, fleeing persecution,” Bard told Michigan Public, noting that the “family lived as refugees.”
Bard clarified that he is not advocating for the complete cessation of immigration enforcement but believes in balancing border security with the principle of welcoming strangers.
The proposed legislation seeks to revive guidelines set by former President Joe Biden. These guidelines established similar locations as “protected areas” to limit Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities.
However, the policy was rescinded by the Trump administration earlier this year. A memorandum from the Department of Homeland Security emphasized the necessity for officers to exercise discretion, stating, “including the degree to which any law enforcement action occurs in a sensitive location.”
“Going forward,” the guidance continued, “law enforcement officers should continue to use that discretion along with a healthy dose of common sense. It is not necessary, however, for the head of the agency to create bright line rules regarding where our immigration laws are permitted to be enforced.”
While Michigan has not reported ICE presence in schools, hospitals, or similar sites, advocates point out occurrences in other states. During discussions, Senator Jim Runestad, a Republican, outlined the conditions under which ICE operates in sensitive locations, emphasizing targeted actions.
Bishop Bonnie Perry of the Episcopal Diocese of Michigan confirmed that such activities have not yet been witnessed in Michigan but shared concerns about incidents elsewhere. Referring to a video of ICE officers detaining a childcare worker in Chicago, she noted, “Yes sir, in Chicago, yesterday morning, where I lived for 27 years.”
Perry expressed additional worries regarding security in religious sites, referencing a recent tragic attack in Grand Blanc. “What we’re really aware of right now is who’s coming,” she stated, emphasizing the need to balance welcoming others with vigilance.
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