Local leaders and law enforcement officials in Orange County, North Carolina, have released joint statements about recent federal immigration enforcement in the Triangle area. The statements, available in English and Spanish, highlight the importance of diversity in communities like Carrboro, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough. Officials reaffirm their commitment to protecting all residents, regardless of immigration status.
The messages respond to recent federal immigration activities that have caused concern among local residents. Leaders, including Mayor Barbara Foushee of Carrboro, Mayor Jess Anderson of Chapel Hill, Chair Jamezetta Bedford of the Orange County Board of Commissioners, and Mayor Mark Bell of Hillsborough, expressed opposition to actions that cause fear and affect community safety.
Law enforcement leaders, such as Sheriff Charles Blackwood and police chiefs from Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough, stated that local agencies do not take part in operations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Customs and Border Protection (CBP). They assured residents that local police and emergency services are available to everyone. They encouraged people to know their rights and seek help from trusted organizations…