Government

Calls for Watertown to Become Sanctuary City Continue as Neighbors Adopt Policies

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As more area towns pass ordinances to declare that undocumented immigrants will be protected from federal efforts to deport them, the debate continues whether Watertown should join the growing list of Sanctuary Cities and Towns. The ordinances typically declare that local police departments will not check immigration status as part of routine matters, but they will if a crime is committed. Also, illegal aliens are not protected by the Sanctuary City ordinance if they have committed a felony or violent crime. Local supporters of Watertown becoming a Sanctuary Town held signs in Watertown Square followed by a rally at a nearby church attended by hundreds. The next week, dozens packed the Town Council Chambers to voice their opposition to the Council passing a Sanctuary City ordinance.

Illegal Immigrants

LETTER: Resident Urges Support of Police’s Stand on Immigrants, Protecting All Immigrants

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Editor,

Of all the issues that are being roiled politically in this most contentious of times in all my 70 years, I believe that Immigration Detention and Deportation initiatives must be given the utmost attention and consideration. The President has stated that these are priority measures vital not only to the safety of national security, but also to the financial well-being of our national economy. I have tried to see both sides of this issue, and I have been swayed by the view that immigrants both legal and undocumented have been a vital factor in the growth of our nation throughout all of our history. And in times of stress due to war, recessions/depressions, and external threats, they are the first to be scapegoated. More importantly, any interactions that one may have either socially or through one’s work or church activities reinforce the observation that people are basically good.

Government

Hundreds Rally to Support Immigrants, Want to Make Watertown a Sanctuary City

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Hundreds of supporters of undocumented immigrants and refugees rallied on the Watertown Square Delta Sunday before packing the Grace Vision Church to find out how the town can protect these groups. Elected officials told a crowd of about 300 at the event –  known as “Watertown Welcomes Immigrants” – that they would do all they can to create protections for all immigrants at the local and state level, including passing an ordinance to make Watertown a Sanctuary City. Town Council President Mark Sideris said he wants everyone to feel welcome in Watertown. “I am proud to live in Watertown. I am proud to serve Watertown on the Council,” Sideris said.