Salem city councilors stood against federal immigration practices Monday, declaring an emergency over enforcement that has raised intense fears and concerns throughout the community over the safety of immigrant families, students and workers.

The declaration states that Salem – Oregon’s second-largest city – has observed federal agents violate people’s constitutional rights while increasing immigration enforcement in the area.

The Salem City Council acted after almost two hours of public testimony filled with personal stories from Salem residents. The councilors were responding to increasing calls from the public for more action to support the city’s immigrant community.

The declaration, proposed last week by Councilor Vanessa Nordyke, passed 6-3. Mayor Julie Hoy and councilors Shane Ma

See Full Page