While the members of Culver City’s City Council aren’t always on the same page, last weekend’s events involving protests against ICE in greater Los Angeles and the escalation by the federal government resulted in a united stance at the council meeting on the evening of Monday, June 9.
Members of the public turned out in large numbers to speak out against the presence of the National Guard (with Marines on standby), with just one speaking in favor of the president’s actions. Meanwhile, the five sitting Council Members spoke of the fears in the community, and the fact that the city will do all it can to ensure that its residents are safe.
On that same day, Mayor Dan O’Brien issued the following statement: “Culver City stands with the people who call our community home regardless of immigration status. Immigrants are vital to our City, and we remain deeply committed to protecting their rights and dignity.
In 2017, the City Council formally declared Culver City a Sanctuary City. That commitment continues today. In alignment with California law, the Culver City Police Department maintains clear and strict policies that prohibit the enforcement of federal immigration laws and the sharing of personal data or information with immigration authorities.
Culver City Police do not ask about immigration status when responding to calls for service. Our focus is, and always will be, on ensuring public safety and providing respectful, equitable service to everyone in our community including those who live here, work here, and visit our beautiful City.
No one should ever be afraid to seek help, report a crime, or engage with City services because of their immigration status. In Culver City, we believe every person deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported.”
Culver City remains a sanctuary city.