Lompoc leaders advocate for immigrant rights at city council meeting

In the heart of Lompoc, a community grappling with the harsh realities of drug overdoses and immigration fears gathered at the city council meeting on March 4, 2025. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as residents voiced their concerns over the rising number of fentanyl-related deaths and the plight of undocumented immigrants in the area.

Alexia Miranda, a leader from Voces Sin Frontera, opened the discussion with a poignant plea for increased access to Narcan, a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. "People are dying in our streets," she emphasized, highlighting the tragic reality that many young individuals may unknowingly consume fentanyl-laced substances. Miranda called for distribution events targeting vulnerable populations, including those living in the riverbed and the homeless, stressing that "if somebody's trained in how to administer it, they can save a life."

The meeting quickly shifted focus to the pressing issue of immigration. Several speakers, including Andrea Palacio and Alex Murchison, passionately advocated for a resolution recognizing undocumented immigrants as vital members of the community. They underscored the contributions of immigrants to Lompoc's economy and culture, urging the council to take action to protect their rights and ensure their safety. "When they suffer, we all suffer," Murchison stated, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the community's well-being.

Residents shared personal stories of fear and trauma stemming from the threat of deportation, with many expressing the emotional toll it takes on families. Larissa Elario, a Lompoc native, reflected on her family's immigrant history and the importance of standing in solidarity with those living in fear. "We ask that you stand with the immigrant population and make your position on these issues very clear," she urged the council.

The council members listened intently as speakers highlighted the need for a resolution that would protect undocumented residents from federal immigration enforcement and ensure access to essential services. Janet Blevins, a former school board member, called for clarity on the police department's stance regarding immigration enforcement, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe environment for all residents.

As the meeting drew to a close, the collective voices of Lompoc's residents resonated with a call for compassion and action. The council was urged to place the immigration resolution on the agenda for the upcoming March 18 meeting, a step that could significantly impact the lives of many in the community. The discussions illuminated the urgent need for support and understanding in a city where diversity is both a strength and a source of vulnerability.