Responding to What Happened Yesterday

Hi Everyone,

To those who are properly outraged about what happened yesterday in Minnesota, here are updates as to what the City of Madison is doing:

City staff are engaged in scenario-planning for situations that other cities have faced in recent months and are in touch with staff in those cities to make sure that we learn from their experience. As part of that analysis, we are also investigating to what extent the City can restrict the use of City property and resources for federal immigration enforcement under current law. The City has already joined a number of lawsuits challenging federal policy on immigration enforcement and other areas, and will continue to do so where there are opportunities. Additionally, the Madison Police Department has a longstanding policy of not detaining, arresting, or investigating any person(s) solely for a suspected violation of immigration status laws. 

To be clear, there is community-centered work that can be done right now. Concerned businesses and individuals can take advantage of resources offered by groups like Voces de la Frontera, Centro Hispano, and the Community Immigration Law Center. I am available to speak at neighborhood associations or to any of you on this topic. I encourage you to learn and share information about constitutional rights, how to be a legal observer, and more. Consider getting trained in the specifics of non-violent protest. This a moment that calls for leadership at the grassroots level, not grand gestures. The most impactful things we can do are in community, not on social media. 

I'd like to emphasize a message that the Mayor has been consistently repeating: “We want everyone in our community to know — regardless of who you are or where you come from — your City government welcomes and values you. The diversity of our community is part of what makes the City of Madison a great place.

Madison benefits tremendously from immigrants and individuals of all racial, ethnic, religious, and gender identity backgrounds. They study and learn besides us; run the small businesses we cherish and depend on; and most importantly, enrich our city with different ideas, perspectives, and culture. They are our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. Madison stands with them and will continue to be a welcoming community to all.”

Lastly, you can call the offices of Wisconsin Senators Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson, and demand they withhold their vote next week for the Department of Homeland Security without a long list of reforms and accountability for ICE and Customs and Border Protection.

People are on edge, outraged, emotionally spent. This is the time to emphasize concrete action, not engaging in vitriol on social media. Channeling our outrage toward constructive action is how we can make a positive difference.

Don't give in to hate. Don't lash out. Find a place for love and kindness as you resist the chaos and darkness. 

Take care and stay safe,

Tag