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Residents urge Morristown to back Immigrant Trust Act; council signals intent to consider a resolution
Summary
Immigrant-rights advocates pressed Morristown council to pass a resolution supporting the Immigrant Trust Act during public comment, citing fear among immigrant families; council members expressed sympathy and one recommended bringing a draft resolution in January.
During the public hearing on Dec. 10, a coalition of residents and members of the group Wind of the Spirit asked the Morristown Town Council to adopt a resolution supporting the Immigrant Trust Act so state lawmakers in Trenton will pass it.
Leandra Dorena said the act would help avoid alarm and confusion in immigrant communities and "is the best way to combat fear and uncertainty for Morristown residents and New Jerseyans." Blanca Ruizoto, speaking for Wind of the Spirit, said the resolution would help immigrants access police, hospitals and libraries without fear that their information would be shared with federal immigration authorities.
Speakers noted recent action in neighboring towns — they cited Madison Borough’s unanimous resolution — and urged Morristown to follow. One councilmember, after hearing testimony, recommended obtaining the draft bill and targeting the town’s own resolution for the first meeting in January so the town could formally document support and urge the state legislature to act.
Council members expressed empathy for residents’ fears and said the council will privately discuss supporting the request. No formal resolution was introduced or voted on at the Dec. 10 meeting; councilmembers suggested drafting language and returning in January.
