Statement from Mayor Gee Regarding Immigration Policies

Statement from Mayor Gee Regarding Immigration Policies

One of the greatest strengths of Redwood City is our diversity. The City of Redwood City is committed to enhancing its cultural fabric by supporting and celebrating its multi-ethnic diversity, which includes newcomers, immigrants and all those who have contributed to creating the Redwood City that we enjoy today - including those who migrated to Redwood City years ago and have called Redwood City home for generations.

In keeping with this philosophy, the Redwood City Police Department does not actively participate in the enforcement of federal immigration laws, which are under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This means our police officers do not conduct sweeps looking for suspected undocumented aliens, and we serve all members of the public equally regardless of immigration status.

Our Police Department only arrests or detains individuals based on factors which establish probable cause of a crime, or pursuant to the California Values Act regarding persons convicted of extraordinary crimes of violence such as murder, mayhem, rape, kidnapping, and other similar violent felonies. We believe we are all safer if anyone who contacts us to report a crime can speak freely rather than feel vulnerable to deportation. Our law enforcement personnel and our staff in all of our departments strive to support the ideals of welcome and inclusion for immigrants and all members of our community.

We know many community members share these values. They, and we, are concerned about possible family separations and community disruption due to increased federal immigration enforcement. For many years we have worked with local community organizations to share accurate information about legal rights and help dispel rumors. We will continue to collaborate with these community organizations and others to address concerns and provide information on resources that residents are able to access.

Our commitment to supporting all who call Redwood City home is stronger than ever, and we will continue doing what we do best: build a welcoming Redwood City through collaboration, responsiveness and excellence.