News Summary
The Department of Homeland Security has classified Rhode Island, Providence, and Central Falls as sanctuary jurisdictions, leading to controversy and potential federal funding consequences. Local leaders assert their policies focus on community safety and maintaining trust with residents. The designation, removed from the DHS website following backlash, reflects ongoing tensions between local and federal immigration policies amidst claims of non-compliance with federal immigration laws.
Providence, Rhode Island
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially named Rhode Island, Providence, and Central Falls as sanctuary jurisdictions, a designation that has sparked significant controversy. This classification stems from allegations that these areas are “deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws and endangering American citizens.” The formal announcement was made on May 29 following an executive order from the Trump administration issued on April 28.
As part of this designation, the DHS plans to send formal notices to the jurisdictions in question, citing non-compliance with federal immigration laws. Jurisdictions failing to amend their policies could face the suspension or termination of federal funding. However, as of June 4, representatives from both Providence and Central Falls have confirmed that they have not received any formal notifications regarding non-compliance from the DHS.
The DHS spokesperson clarified that the list of sanctuary jurisdictions was compiled based on various factors, including self-identification, the jurisdictions’ compliance with federal law enforcement engagements, and the extent of legal protections put in place for individuals without immigration documentation.
Response to Designation
On June 1, the DHS removed the sanctuary jurisdictions list from its website following public backlash and accusations of inaccuracies within the data provided. The state of Rhode Island was noted as a sanctuary jurisdiction due to a court order mandating specific sanctuary requirements, though the DHS did not provide additional details about the court order.
Historically, Providence and Central Falls have taken a stand against federal immigration policies. In 2020, both cities won a lawsuit against the Trump administration, which initiated policies requiring them to act as “agents of immigration.” Both cities assert that their local policies do not violate federal law but rather aim to preserve community safety and maintain trust between local law enforcement and residents.
Local Leadership Standpoints
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley has declared that the city intends to remain compliant with federal law and will not alter its immigration policies in light of the DHS designation. Similarly, Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera has emphasized that the local ordinance enacted in 2019 is designed to support public safety and foster trust within the community without proactively collaborating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In addition, Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse has criticized the Trump administration’s actions, asserting that Rhode Island law enforcement does comply with federal agents when appropriate warrants are presented. Conversely, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has accused leaders of sanctuary jurisdictions of jeopardizing American safety and undermining law enforcement efforts.
Broader Context
Governor Dan McKee’s office has also noted that they have yet to receive any official communication regarding claims of non-compliance from the DHS. The classification of Rhode Island, Providence, and Central Falls as sanctuary jurisdictions places them alongside other regional jurisdictions from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire.
The National Sheriffs’ Association has voiced concerns regarding the lack of transparency in the process of compiling the sanctuary jurisdiction list, pointing to potential negative impacts on cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. As this situation evolves, the local administrations continue to navigate the implications of this designation while reaffirming their commitment to community safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
DHS Identifies Rhode Island Cities as Sanctuary Jurisdictions
Rhode Island Designated as Sanctuary Jurisdiction by DHS
Providence Upholds Immigrant Protections Amid Federal Pressure
Additional Resources
- Brown Daily Herald
- Wikipedia: Sanctuary City
- Providence Journal
- Google Search: Sanctuary Jurisdictions Rhode Island
- WPRI
- Google Scholar: Sanctuary Jurisdictions Rhode Island
- GoLocalProv
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration
- ABC 6
- Google News: Providence Sanctuary Jurisdictions
