Massachusetts advocates seek stronger immigrant protections

Immigrant advocates in Massachusetts are urging state lawmakers to create stronger protections for immigrants amid fears of mass deportations under President Donald Trump’s administration. They gathered at the State House on Wednesday to speak out against what they describe as an “all-out assault” on immigrant rights. Local advocates are calling for two key bills. One, called the “Safe Communities Act,” aims to limit collaboration between local police and federal immigration agencies. It would prevent law enforcement from acting as immigration officers and restrict communication with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security about individuals' immigration status. Senator Jamie Eldridge, the bill's author, emphasized that taxpayer money should not be used for deportations. He noted that threats against undocumented immigrants and those with temporary protected status have increased since Trump began his second term. Eldridge has previously introduced similar legislation but believes it has a better chance of passing this time. Meanwhile, federal immigration raids have been highlighted recently in Massachusetts, intensifying the focus on the state’s immigration policies. This scrutiny includes calls for Mayor Michelle Wu to appear before Congress regarding Boston’s practices. Massachusetts officials point to the significant role immigrants play in the state’s economy. Lauren Jones, Labor and Workforce Development Secretary, stated that immigrants make up about 20% of the workforce in Massachusetts, including many highly skilled workers. Advocates are also pushing for the "Immigrant Legal Defense Act," which would create a fund to help immigrants and refugees who cannot afford legal representation. This legislation aims to ensure that those facing deportation have a fair chance in court. Supporters of the immigrant community, like Rep. Carlos Gonzalez, stressed the vital contributions of immigrants to industries such as hospitality and ride-sharing. He declared that immigrants will not back down in the face of challenges and affirmed their commitment to fighting for their rights.