Jersey City Mayor Blocks ICE from City Property to Protect Residents
Jersey City’s new mayor has limited ICE operations in the city, showing a strong commitment to immigrant neighborhoods. On Friday, Democrat Mayor James Solomon signed an executive order banning ICE officers from utilizing city-owned buildings for enforcement.
The executive order prohibits ICE from processing prisoners, establishing operational bases, or conducting other official activity in Jersey City’s parking lots, vacant lots, public parks, and city garages. The city will also install locked gates to keep federal agents out.
Mayor Solomon said at a press conference that this measure protects families and residents. He remarked, “What we are witnessing in America right now is an assault on families.” In Jersey City, we’ll go another way. We defend all city residents, including immigrants.”
City officials will also work with immigrant nonprofits. This alliance will educate citizens and city staff about their rights while dealing with federal immigration authorities, preventing local resources from being utilized against them.
The executive order is one of Mayor Solomon’s first actions after replacing Steven Fulop last month. State and federal officials praised the city’s immigrant policies at the press conference.
The mayor’s actions were praised by 10th District Rep. LaMonica McIver. Jersey City’s decision counters federal ICE officials’ perceived harsh treatment of local residents, she said. McIver said, “We need leaders like Mayor Solomon and others at the state level who are actively protecting residents from federal overreach.
Representative Rob Menendez (8th District) also supported. He noted that many ICE detainees are not criminals and condemned earlier federal enforcement policies. “ICE’s own data shows that the individuals being separated from their families are not criminals,” Menendez stated, emphasizing the need to safeguard community members from federal interference.
Jersey City prioritizes community safety and civil protections, including for immigrants, as seen by this executive order. It clearly states that city resources, property, and personnel will not be exploited to endanger residents. Jersey City’s commitment to human rights and community-focused governance is reinforced by the relocation.
Sources:
- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – Official Website
- Jersey City Mayor’s Office – Executive Orders and Press Releases
