Oregon Attorney General Launches Sanctuary Toolkit to Educate Residents on State Laws
Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum has unveiled a bilingual “Sanctuary Promise Community Toolkit” to empower residents with knowledge about the state’s laws, aiming to ensure that every person can live, work, play, and learn safely in Oregon. The toolkit comes as a proactive measure in light of potential immigration crackdowns, providing critical information for individuals, businesses, and local governments.
Oregon’s Sanctuary State Legacy
In 1987, Oregon legislators passed HB 2314, spearheaded by then-Rep. Rocky Barilla, in response to immigration raids carried out by the U.S. Immigration & Naturalization Service (INS), later transforming into USCIS, DHS, and ICE in 2003. This groundbreaking legislation marked Oregon as the first “sanctuary state” in the United States, prohibiting the use of state and local law enforcement resources for detaining individuals solely based on their immigration status.
Toolkit Features and Resources
The Sanctuary Promise Community Toolkit comprises easily accessible documents related to the 1987 law’s enactment, offering insights into its historical context and significance. The toolkit includes FAQs addressing practical concerns such as preparing for encounters with federal immigration authorities, reporting ICE activities in communities, and documenting information following interactions with immigration officials. Additionally, a statewide hotline has been established to report any violations of sanctuary laws, ensuring prompt responses to potential infringements.
Empowering Oregonians
Attorney General Rosenblum emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s rights in advance and encourages Oregonians to engage in conversations with family members to develop preparedness plans in the event of immigration enforcement actions. By equipping individuals with essential information and resources, the toolkit aims to foster a sense of empowerment and resilience within communities across the state.
Looking Ahead
As the national discourse on sanctuary policies evolves, Oregon remains committed to upholding its values of inclusivity and protection for all residents. By proactively engaging with legal frameworks and community resources, Oregonians can navigate potential challenges with confidence and awareness. Attorney General Rosenblum’s initiative underscores the state’s dedication to safeguarding the well-being and rights of every individual within its borders.
