Story perspectives

Cities Unite Against ICE: Protests and New Policies Emerge

2/4/2026

Center

Aldermen Oppose ICE

In Milwaukee, Alderman Alex Brower (Milwaukee) said ICE isn't welcome in Milwaukee as hundreds attended a town hall calling for local action against ICE.
In San Jose, officials enacted policies to limit ICE enforcement, including establishing ICE-free zones.
Protests in San Jose ahead of the Super Bowl urged protection of immigrant communities.
In Maryland, legislators advanced bills to restrict local cooperation with ICE, citing research linking immigration to reduced crime.

Left

Council Condemns Immigration

The Chula Vista City Council unanimously passed a resolution condemning federal immigration enforcement actions, citing transparency and loss-of-life concerns.
The resolution cites Minnesota deaths during protests over immigration enforcement.
Deputy Mayor Cesar Fernandez emphasized that local governments should speak out against deadly enforcement practices.
In New York, City Council candidate Layla Law-Gisiko launched a campaign advocating immigrant rights and housing, criticizing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 3, abolished national origin quotas, significantly altering U.S. immigration policy. This law increased immigration from Latin America and Asia, reshaping communities in cities like Milwaukee and San Jose. Ongoing local actions against ICE reflect the enduring tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and the quest for immigrant rights.

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Aldermen Oppose ICE

In Milwaukee, Alderman Alex Brower (Milwaukee) said ICE isn't welcome in Milwaukee as hundreds attended a town hall calling for local action against ICE.
In San Jose, officials enacted policies to limit ICE enforcement, including establishing ICE-free zones.
Protests in San Jose ahead of the Super Bowl urged protection of immigrant communities.
In Maryland, legislators advanced bills to restrict local cooperation with ICE, citing research linking immigration to reduced crime.

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