Statement from Mayor Katjana Ballantyne on Local ICE Activity

These are profoundly difficult times for all in our community. I recognize the fear and suffering that residents are experiencing as federal immigration enforcement activities have increased in Somerville, the greater Boston area, and the nation. As an immigrant myself, I understand this fear personally. 

Let me be clear about our commitment: Somerville will continue to do everything within our legal authority to support all residents. We are providing Know Your Rights trainings, connecting families to legal services, helping with guardianship preparations, and offering wraparound supports for those impacted by detentions and their families. We maintain our lawful sanctuary policies because they keep our entire community safer. We are stepping up to meet the needs of our community in a time of crisis. 

To those who are afraid: we see you, we stand with you, and we will continue using every legal tool available to support you. Our values of inclusion and justice remain unwavering, especially during these uncertain times. Our call for humane immigration reform that respects the dignity and the contributions of immigrants stands firm. 

Below are some supports and information that may be helpful to you: 

1. The MA Attorney General’s Guidance: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: ICE Enforcement, A Guide for Immigrants, Families, and Communities can be found here. 

2. For help finding a loved one who has been detained, the National Immigration Law Center put together a step-by-step guide which can be found here.  

3. Individual supports: The City of Somerville’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (SOIA) is able to support people who live or work in Somerville with referrals to city, state, and non-profit services; referrals to immigration legal services; and provision of resources and information including Know Your Rights information. To connect with SOIA, email SOIA@somervillema.gov or visit SOIA’s website for more ways to contact.  

4. Information and general resources: The City and Schools also maintain a Know Your Rights resources page at www.somervillema.gov/onesomerville.  

5. For businesses owners: The City’s Economic Development Division is able to provide businesses with information and resources on business owners’ rights and responsibilities. To contact the Economic Development division, email economicdevelopment@somervillema.gov. 

6. Somerville Public Schools: SPS staff are ready to assist families and connect them to resources, services, and to help answer questions. Please reach out to school staff, teachers, liaisons, or counselors for assistance.