By City of Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther has assured residents that they will never be asked about their immigration status when in need of help while responding to the Supreme Court judgement on Temporary Protected Status, TPS of Syrians and Haitians living in Columbus.
“If you need help, we will ask you where you are and what your emergency is-—we will never ask about your immigration status,” said Mayor Andrew Ginther.
“Last week, the Supreme Court sided with the Trump Administration, ruling that Syrians and Haitians living in Columbus on Temporary Protected Status can be stripped of their protected status and forced to return to an unstable and unsafe homeland.
“This policy is irresponsible and inhumane. Our immigrant and refugee neighbors make positive contributions to our community through their unique perspectives, workplace contributions and participation in our economy.”
Mayor Ginther explained that “we cannot prevent federal operations from happening in our city, and federal officers do not communicate their plans with us. During ‘Operation Buckeye,’ we came together to show these operations are unwanted and not helpful to keeping our city safe – Columbus is already safe.”
“In 2017, I issued an Executive Order directing that City of Columbus resources will not be used to support federal deportation efforts, unless there is evidence of a crime having been committed.
“This means the city, including Columbus Police, will not aid investigations into Columbus residents solely based on their immigration status, and we will not use city resources to apprehend anyone living in our city solely based on immigration status,” said Mayor Ginther.
“When our neighbors fear reporting crimes or calling 911, everyone in our city becomes less safe. If you need help, we will ask you where you are and what your emergency is-—we will never ask about your immigration status.
I encourage residents to know your rights:
- Talk with an attorney about your unique situation and the options available to you. Also memorize their phone number in case you need help. Legal Aid (1-888-246-4420, lasco.org) and Community Refugee & Immigration Services (614-235-5747, crisohio.org) can offer support.
- Carry federal identification when possible.
- Stay calm and truthful when interacting with law enforcement. Know that you have the right to remain silent.
- For your safety and the safety of those around you, do not obstruct federal operations.
“Columbus is a safe community where everyone belongs, and the resources of our city will not be used as tools of discrimination or fear.”
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