Salinas council backs letter supporting state protections against immigration enforcement at school sites

The Salinas City Council voted unanimously Feb. 11 to send a letter in support of pending state legislation that would further bar immigration enforcement at school sites and prohibit sharing student‑related information with immigration authorities.

Council member Jose Luis Barajas, who introduced the item and said he participated in the County of Monterey’s Immigrant Rights Ad Hoc Committee, framed the measure as a step to protect families and students who live in fear of immigration enforcement. “Salinas is my home,” Barajas said, and “we’re showing them that we choose to support you as well.”

City Attorney Callahan explained the measure’s scope during the council discussion: the proposed state action would limit immigration enforcement at educational institutions and bar the disclosure of information about students, their families and households to immigration enforcement bodies. Callahan said the city’s role was to decide whether to send a support letter to the state legislature.

Council member Barrera described the local impact, noting accounts that up to 30 percent of students had not attended school on a recent day in one district because of fear over enforcement. Barrera urged the council to demonstrate support for residents and the agricultural workforce the city relies on.

Several residents spoke in support during public comment. Sofia Alvarado said families were “afraid” and urged council support; other speakers from local community groups said the measure would reduce fear among children and families. No council member spoke against the action.

The council approved the consent motion that included the support letter (agenda item 027). Roll call recorded votes of yes from Council member Barajas, Council member Barrera, Council member D'Arrigo, Council member Dela Rosa, Council member Salazar, Council member Sandoval and Mayor Denis Donahue; the motion passed unanimously.