OLYMPIA — Following Tuesday’s press conference with Gov. Bob Ferguson, Sen. Javier Valdez (D-Seattle) issued the statement below in response to recent threats from the Trump administration to penalize Washington and other states that maintain so-called “sanctuary” laws:
“Today, I stood proudly with Gov. Ferguson to reaffirm what Washingtonians already know to be true: Our state will not be bullied into abandoning our values.
“Washington is a place where hardworking immigrant families contribute to our economy, our neighborhoods, and our culture every single day. Federal threats to strip away funding or criminalize compassion do nothing to make our communities safer. What they do is sow fear and division, and we refuse to let that define who we are.
“The Keep Washington Working Act reflects the simple truth that no one should live in fear of being separated from their loved ones just for going to work, dropping their kids off at school, or seeking medical care. Our laws were written to keep families together and ensure law enforcement resources are focused where they belong — on protecting public safety, not tearing apart families.
“As the son and grandson of farmworkers and laborers, I know firsthand the courage and resilience of Washington’s immigrant communities. I will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with them, Gov. Ferguson, and all who believe in dignity, fairness, and justice.
“Washington will continue to be a place of refuge, opportunity, and respect for all who call it home.”
