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Watsonville council unanimously adopts resolution condemning federal military deployments against immigrants and protesters
Summary
The Watsonville City Council unanimously adopted a resolution condemning the use of federal military force, including National Guard deployments without state approval, against immigrant communities and peaceful protesters. Dozens of residents and community leaders urged passage during public comment, and council members framed the vote as a defense of local values and civil rights.
The Watsonville City Council on Wednesday unanimously adopted a resolution "strongly condemn[ing] the use of federal military force, including the deployment of the National Guard without state's approval against immigrant communities and peaceful protesters within California," the council’s presenter said.
The resolution, introduced by the mayor’s office, affirms the right of all people regardless of immigration status "to protest, assemble, and live free from fear and intimidation by armed government forces" and calls on cities across the Central Coast and state leaders to act in solidarity. It also directs the city clerk to transmit copies to state and federal officials including Governor Gavin Newsom, Assembly Member Robert Rivas and State Senator John Laird.
The measure drew extensive public comment in support. Marielena de la Garza, CEO of the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County and a lifelong Watsonville resident, told the council the resolution "sends a message to the community that you value and recognize our essential workers and our immigrant families and it really sends a message to the youth of our community." Erica Padilla Chavez, CEO of Second Harvest, said the recent images of militarized responses had left people in the community fearful and urged the council to "do the right thing." Pam Sexton, a PVUSD teacher, read language from AB 481 and warned that militarized equipment acquisition "adversely impacts the public safety and welfare," citing disproportionate effects on low-income Black and brown communities.
Council debate featured strong language but no votes against the resolution. Member Kietals Carter described the moment as confronting "fascism," and said residents must not be "polite" in the face of perceived threats, adding that people should "be prepared to defend our democracy by any means necessary." Council member Ari Parker and Council member Dutra both expressed anger and support for the measure; Dutra also noted the city had earlier joined a San Francisco lawsuit against former President Donald J. Trump.
A motion to adopt the resolution was placed, seconded and approved by roll-call vote: Clark (Aye), Dutra (Aye), Montesinos (Yes), Parker (Yes), Quiros Carter (Aye), Orozco (Aye). The mayor announced "The motion carries." The resolution does not change criminal law or federal authority; it registers the city’s official position and asks other jurisdictions and state and federal legislators to pursue oversight and appropriate actions.
The council adjourned after the vote. The city clerk will transmit the adopted resolution to the named state and federal officials as directed in the document.
