ICE Presence Reported In Norwalk, Mayor Issues Statement: City

NORWALK, CT — Mayor Barbara Smyth announced Thursday afternoon federal immigration enforcement activity has been reported in and around the city.

In a statement released on the city's Facebook page and website, Smyth said she has "been made aware of reports of federal immigration enforcement activity in and around Norwalk" on Thursday.

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"I understand that this news may cause fear and uncertainty for members of our community, particularly for immigrant families who may be directly or indirectly impacted," Smyth said in the statement. "Let me be clear: Norwalk is a city that welcomes and values all of our residents, regardless of immigration status. Our immigrant communities are an important part of the fabric of Norwalk, and no one should feel alone or without support during this difficult time."

In her statement, Smyth said federal immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the federal government.

"The city of Norwalk and the Norwalk Police Department are separate from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and our local government does not control federal immigration enforcement activities," Smyth said. "The actions of the officers of the Norwalk Police Department are aligned with the TRUST Act of the State of Connecticut, which prohibits cooperation or the sharing of any intelligence or information for immigration enforcement operations."

ICE activity has also recently been reported in some nearby Connecticut communities, including Danbury and Stamford.

Smyth acknowledged the presence of federal agents "can create significant anxiety" for families.

"It is critical that everyone understand their rights, regardless of immigration status," Smyth said. "I encourage anyone who has questions or concerns to seek information from a trusted legal or community organization rather than relying on rumors or misinformation."

Smyth's full statement, which includes a list of community resources available for families, can be viewed here.

Smyth also encouraged families to know their rights, make a family preparedness plan and seek advice from qualified legal professionals or trusted community organizations.

"Norwalk is a city built by people from many backgrounds, cultures and countries," Smyth said. "We will continue to be a welcoming, inclusive community, and we will continue to stand with our immigrant neighbors during these challenging times."

Smyth and Norwalk Public Schools Interim Superintendent Sandra Faioes released a joint statement Wednesday as students returned to school across the city.

"As the new school year begins, we want to reaffirm something that should never be in doubt: Norwalk's schools are safe, welcoming places where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive," the statement reads. "We recognize that recent changes to immigration policies, including changes to Temporary Protected Status (TPS), as well as increased immigration enforcement activity around the country, have created uncertainty and concern for some families in our community. We want our students and families to know that you belong here, and your schools are here for you."

Smyth and Faioes noted the district does not ask students or families to provide information about their immigration status as a condition of attending school.

"Student privacy is protected by federal and state law," the statement reads, "and the district has established protocols for responding to requests for student information and to any law enforcement activity involving our schools."

They also emphasized the safety and well-being of students will always be their highest priority.

"We will continue to work closely with our school leaders, staff, families, and community partners to ensure that our schools remain safe, supportive, and welcoming environments for every student," the statement reads. "We also encourage families to make sure their emergency contact information is current with Norwalk Public Schools and to familiarize themselves with the resources and information available to them."

Families who have questions or concerns are encouraged to reach out to their school or the district, who can help connect them with appropriate resources, the statement notes.

"Norwalk is a community built on the strength of its families, its diversity, and its commitment to one another," the statement reads. "Every child deserves to feel safe walking into school each morning, and every family deserves to know that their community stands with them. We are proud to stand together — as a city, as a school district, and as a community — in support of all of our students and families."

Smyth and Faioes' full statement, which includes local resources and district guidelines regarding non-local law enforcement and ICE actions, can be viewed here.