Allentown Adopts Policy of Non-Collaboration with ICE as Part of ‘Welcoming City’ Movement
In a significant step toward protecting immigrant communities, Allentown has officially adopted a policy prohibiting local police and city officials from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”). This decision aligns with the city’s participation in the “Welcoming City” movement, an initiative that seeks to foster inclusivity and ensure that immigrants, regardless of status, feel safe and supported. By implementing a non-collaboration policy, Allentown joins a growing number of cities across the country that are pushing back against federal immigration enforcement efforts in favor of building stronger, more cohesive communities.
The new policy ensures that individuals living in Allentown without legal immigration status are not targeted for deportation solely based on their presence in the city. Under this directive, local law enforcement and city officials are prohibited from voluntarily assisting ICE in immigration enforcement activities. This means city agencies will not honor ICE detainer requests unless there is a warrant signed by a judge, nor will they provide access to city resources for the purpose of conducting immigration enforcement. The policy also aims to prevent local tax dollars from being used to support federal immigration actions, reinforcing the city’s commitment to prioritizing the needs and safety of its residents.
Limiting collaboration with ICE fosters trust between immigrant communities and local authorities. Many undocumented residents fear interactions with law enforcement due to concerns about deportation, which can lead to underreporting of crimes and reluctance to seek emergency services. By enacting a non-collaboration policy, Allentown aims to reassure immigrants that they can access public services, report crimes, and engage with their community without fear of immigration consequences.
Opponents of the measure contend that cooperation between local and federal agencies is necessary to maintain public safety and ensure that dangerous individuals are not shielded from immigration enforcement. Despite these concerns, research has shown that sanctuary-style policies do not lead to increased crime and, in many cases, improve relationships between police and immigrant communities. City officials in Allentown assert that this policy is not about shielding criminals but rather about ensuring that law-abiding residents are not subjected to unjust enforcement actions based on their immigration status alone.
The move comes amid an ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement and local autonomy. The federal government has repeatedly attempted to pressure cities into cooperating with ICE, often by threatening to withhold funding or take legal action against jurisdictions that refuse to comply with immigration detainer requests. However, courts have consistently ruled that local governments are not required to assist in federal immigration enforcement and that ICE detainers, which are administrative requests rather than judicial warrants, are not legally binding. As a result, cities like Allentown have the legal authority to adopt policies that limit their involvement in immigration enforcement. Allentown is the third such city in Pennsylvania to adopt a measure, following Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
For many immigrants in Allentown, this new policy represents a crucial step toward greater stability and peace of mind. Knowing that local authorities will not actively assist in federal immigration enforcement allows individuals to live and work without the constant fear of deportation disrupting their lives. It also aligns with broader efforts to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all residents, regardless of nationality or immigration status, can contribute to the social and economic fabric of the community.
At Lehigh Valley Immigration Law LLC, we understand the legal challenges that immigrants face, especially in today’s complex and often unpredictable immigration landscape. If you or a loved one has concerns about immigration enforcement, deportation proceedings, or legal status, we are here to help. Our experienced attorneys can provide guidance on your rights, legal protections, and available immigration options.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can assist you in navigating your immigration journey.