Berwyn resident urges leaders to protect Welcoming City Ordinance amid federal immigration threats

The City Council of Berwyn, Illinois, held a meeting on January 14, 2025, where a significant discussion centered around the city's Welcoming City Ordinance. A First Ward resident addressed the council, emphasizing the importance of the ordinance, which was enacted in 2017 to protect the personal information of residents and limit local law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration agencies.

The resident highlighted that the ordinance allows individuals to access city services and call 911 without fear of their immigration status being revealed. They expressed concern over recent federal legislative changes, specifically HR 7511, which could undermine the protections afforded by the ordinance. This act mandates that Homeland Security detain individuals suspected of nonviolent offenses, raising fears of increased racial profiling and violations of due process.

The speaker urged the council to consider potential amendments to the Welcoming City Ordinance to ensure it remains effective in light of these federal pressures. They warned that Berwyn could face challenges, including threats to city funding and pressure on local law enforcement to bypass existing laws. The resident called for the council to reaffirm its commitment to maintaining Berwyn's status as a welcoming city, emphasizing the need for leadership to protect vulnerable populations.

The meeting concluded without further comments from the audience or council members, leaving the future of the ordinance and its protections in a state of uncertainty as federal policies evolve.