ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Responding to the Trump Administration’s immigration policies, the city of Albuquerque is getting involved telling business owners and others how to navigate the shift in federal enforcement. “I am extremely concerned and anxious and worried about everything that’s happening nationally,” said Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller.
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The mayor said Albuquerque has a big role in welcoming immigrants to the U.S. Now, the city is launching a series of new discussions aimed at teaching community members and immigrants about what to expect in the wake of the Trump Administration’s immigration policies. Starting this week, Albuquerque’s Office of Equity and Inclusion is hosting free and anonymous online meetings focused on sharing resources with the community.
“In America, we have private property. You have to have a warrant to search that property. That is important to remember. For example, if ICE shows up and they want to go into your property, they really can’t without proper cause,” said Keller.
The series started on Wednesday with the city’s Small Business Office hosting a webinar focused on sharing more about the rights business owners and tenants have when confronted by federal immigration agencies. “The biggest concerns we’re seeing is around the Native American communities. For some reason, ICE is actually coming in and questioning their citizenship. It’s insulting and bizarre,” Keller said.
The city said it’s heard dozens of concerns from locals worried about the latest federal policies. The mayor said he isn’t backing down from Albuquerque’s immigrant-friendly policy. That policy in part means the city won’t ask for or track anyone’s documentation status in the U.S.
“What we are reminding people is you can contact the Immigrant Law Center, you can also start with our Office of Immigrant Refugee Affairs and they will refer you to the right place to go,” said Keller.
The city plans to have several other webinars in the coming weeks. See the schedule below:
Immigration and Your Community: Know Your Rights
Understanding Rights & Protections for Family, Friends and Neighbors
Thursday, February 6, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 12, 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 19, 6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 26,12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, March 5, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, March 12, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.
For more information, click this link.