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Residents urge compassion, protections for immigrants; speakers cite DACA and urge support for SB250
Summary
Several residents used the public-comment period to urge the commission and community to treat immigrants with dignity, cited DACA experiences and asked local residents to push lawmakers to support Senate Bill 250, which would limit state/local enforcement of federal immigration laws.
Multiple speakers during the Feb. 18 public-comment period urged the City Commission and community to treat immigrants with dignity and asked local leaders to support legislation limiting local enforcement of federal immigration law.
John McCrae said Hobbs's diverse workforce strengthens the local and national economy and urged compassion: “These amazing people are not a burden to our economy, or criminals causing problems… They contribute their time, efforts, and resources as part of our communities.”
Alejandro Seja (as introduced at the meeting) described being brought to the U.S. as a child, an experience with local law enforcement and immigration officials in 2007, and a subsequent path to lawful status after legal assistance. He urged constituents to pressure senators to support Senate Bill 250, saying the bill “aims to not allow state and local agencies to enforce federal immigration laws.”
Lorraine Villegas recounted receiving DACA and described the program as “a beacon of hope” for young immigrants; she said the current legal uncertainty over DACA has returned fear to many families and appealed for community solidarity.
Commission response: Commissioners and the mayor acknowledged the public comments. Commissioner Mills and others urged compassion and an open-door approach for residents with concerns. The mayor and other commissioners thanked the speakers.
Ending: The remarks were public comment; no commission action on immigration policy was taken at the meeting.
