Another blue city doubles down on vow to obstruct Trump’s mass deportations plan
The Boston City Council took a bold step this week by unanimously voting to double down on the Trust Act, a measure aimed at obstructing President-elect Trump’s plans for mass deportations. This decision comes as the city braces for the impact of a potential second Trump presidency, with council member Gabriela Coletta emphasizing the importance of this move.
The Trust Act, originally passed in 2014 and amended in 2019, is designed to protect immigrant communities from unjust enforcement actions. It restricts Boston police from cooperating with ICE and prohibits them from holding migrants in custody for deportation without a criminal warrant. The council’s resolution reaffirming the Trust Act states that proposals for mass deportations pose a direct threat to Boston’s immigrant families and could tear communities apart.
Council President Ruthzee Louijeune highlighted the need for Boston to reaffirm its commitment to protecting immigrant residents in the face of increasingly hostile national attitudes towards immigrant communities. She emphasized the city’s identity as a diverse and welcoming place for all residents, regardless of immigration status.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, a Democrat, has pledged not to cooperate with Trump and his administration’s plans for mass deportations. She stressed the city’s responsibility to protect residents from fear and economic impact caused by such efforts. Wu’s stance aligns with that of Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, who has vowed to use all available tools to shield residents from deportation.
Recent ICE arrests of illegal immigrants charged with crimes, including child sex offenses, have raised concerns in the Boston area. Despite ICE detainers, some individuals have been released back onto the streets, prompting calls for stronger protections for residents. Governor Healey has made it clear that state police will not assist in Trump’s deportation operations.
Democratic leaders across the country, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, have also voiced opposition to Trump’s deportation plans. Johnston’s promise to physically block ICE officials from carrying out deportations drew a sharp response from former ICE official Tom Homan, who warned resisters to step aside or face consequences.
In the face of uncertain federal immigration policies, Boston is reaffirming its commitment to protecting all residents and upholding the Trust Act. As the city stands firm in its support for immigrant communities, the council’s unanimous vote sends a strong message of solidarity and resistance against unjust deportations.
