The Washington State Senate Members of Color Caucus (MOCC) issued the following statement in response to the recent wave of federal immigration raids, which have spread fear and instability in communities across Washington state and the nation.
“The Washington State Senate Members of Color Caucus strongly condemns the recent federal immigration raids targeting immigrant communities across the country, including in Washington state. These actions have caused fear, separated families, and disrupted communities who contribute immensely to the economic and cultural fabric of our state.
“These raids do not reflect the values of Washington state. We stand with our immigrant neighbors, workers, and families and reject aggressive and unnecessary enforcement actions that cause fear and trauma. These actions also undermine public safety by keeping people afraid to report crimes or pursue their right to access our state justice systems.
“The MOCC applauds Gov. Bob Ferguson’s recent executive order creating the Family Separation Rapid Response Team, which will provide vital assistance to children and families impacted by deportation. We support these efforts and encourage state agencies, local governments, and community organizations to take immediate action to provide legal, financial, and emotional support to those affected.
“We must be clear: Washington is and will remain a welcoming state. We refuse to allow fear and division to dictate how we treat our neighbors, friends, and colleagues. We urge federal leaders to halt these raids and instead focus on humane and just immigration policies that responsibly address public safety.
“We have made significant strides through legislation like the Keep Washington Working Act, which ensures local law enforcement does not serve as an instrument of federal immigration enforcement. This law plays a crucial role in safeguarding immigrant communities by limiting the involvement of local agencies in federal immigration actions, allowing all residents — regardless of their immigration status — to live and work in Washington without the constant threat of deportation.
“However, our work is far from finished. The MOCC will continue collaborating closely with advocacy groups, legal organizations, and local officials to secure resources and protections vital for immigrant communities during this difficult time. While the Keep Washington Working Act marked a critical milestone, we will keep fighting to ensure every family in Washington is supported. We are determined to strengthen and expand protections for our immigrant communities, ensuring our state remains a place of safety, opportunity, and dignity for everyone who calls it home.”
