Santa Clarita joins other California cities in opposing ‘sanctuary’ law
SANTA CLARITA — The debate over California’s immigration laws raged on in Santa Clarita as the City Council formally opposed the state’s so-called sanctuary law and filed a brief in support of the Trump administration’s lawsuit against the state.
Santa Clarita became what is believed to be the first city in Los Angeles County to officially oppose SB 54, potentially joining a handful of municipalities elsewhere in Southern California that have challenged the law since Gov. Jerry Brown signed it in October.
The council chambers was packed Tuesday night, with people standing in aisles and doorways and spilling out into an overflow room as 200 had signed up to speak. Many wore red “Make America Great Again” caps. Some snacked on popcorn while others cooled themselves with fans.
Some said Senate Bill 54, which limits cooperation by local law enforcement with federal immigration authorities, would promote criminality, while others said it would make communities safer. Some cited legal explanations for why the law violates the Constitution, while others argued California was within its rights.
“I don’t understand. When these people have committed a crime ... why can’t one agency be able to call another agency?” Annette Burns said.
“California has overreached,” Susan Agnes, a resident and mother of two said.
The atmosphere was often tense, punctuated by moments of levity. Audience members repeatedly heckled and booed one another, prompting reprimands from Mayor Laurene Weste — including a brief lesson on the 1st Amendment. Some yelled “line cutter,” “no signs” or “Time!” to enforce the rules. At one point the audio cut out and someone shouted, “Russians!”
More often than not, testimony veered into the broader immigration debate and the symbolism of the resolution. By 9:30 p.m., about 100 people were still in line to speak.
“I consider myself a patriot,” said Alex Reza, a Newhall resident and veteran. “I also consider myself a person who appreciates the tremendous contributions of immigrants, both documented and undocumented.
“By opposing SB 54 you are sending a loud message to Latino communities that (Santa Clarita) is not a family-friendly city,” he continued.
In March, Los Alamitos approved an ordinance claiming exemption from SB 54. That same month, Orange County signed on to the federal lawsuit against California over SB 54 and other laws protecting immigrants.