Ithaca council reaffirms sanctuary policies after federal enforcement action; residents press for clearer protections

Ithaca — The Ithaca Common Council on Feb. 5 unanimously reaffirmed the city’s sanctuary policies as residents filled the public-comment period to urge stronger, actionable protections after a recent federal immigration enforcement action in the city.

Mayor Cantalmo opened the meeting by describing the city’s legal stance and values. “The city of Ithaca has an unambiguously clear policy around nondiscrimination and protection for migrants, undocumented Americans, reproductive care, and gender affirming care,” he said, adding the council would reaffirm those policies that night. He framed the city as an independent government actor that “adheres to its obligations under The United States Constitution, the Constitution of the State of New York, and our own laws and ordinances.”

The reaffirmation came after public comment from more than two dozen residents, students, religious leaders and service providers who described fear and disruption in their communities following the appearance of federal immigration officers in Ithaca. Speakers called on the council to back the…