Somerville Mayor Advocates For 'Sanctuary State' At Mass. Democratic Convention

SOMERVILLE, MA – Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone advocated for making Massachusetts a "sanctuary state" during his speech at the Massachusetts Democratic Convention over the weekend. The mayor's remarks precede a public hearing Friday on the Safe Communities Act, a bill that would preclude local law enforcement from assisting federal authorities in investigations or arrests based solely on immigration status, effectively establishing a "sanctuary state."

Addressing the crowd in Worcester, Curtatone commented on looking back on history in hindsight, saying history books are full of examples of "hate and intolerance" in Massachusetts and the United States, as well as "high moments, because Americans overcome."

"Recently I saw a tweet that said this: Remember all the times you read about national crises in history books and said ‘If I were alive, I would’ve …’ Well, now is that time," the mayor said. "Now is the time to stand up and speak up for what is right and true. Now is the time that Massachusetts must pass the Safe Communities Act and become a sanctuary state."

Curtatone also sought to debunk what he referred to as "myths, lies and misinformation" surrounding sanctuary status, citing a 50 percent drop in crime since Somerville became a sanctuary city 30 years ago.

"Crime thrives in the shadows. Being a sanctuary city has been a burst of sunlight, helping us to promote community based policing, eradicate organizations like MS-13, and improve public health," he said.

Curtatone's argument echoes that of the Safe Communities Act, which states that communities are in fact safer when immigrant groups trust law enforcement to report crimes; according to the bill, there are 35.5 fewer violent and property crimes per 10,000 people in so-called "safe community" counties and 65.4 fewer violent and property crimes per 10,000 people in large metro areas in "safe community" counties.

Dozens of lawmakers pledged their support for the Safe Communities Act earlier this year. The bill would prohibit state and local officers from being deputized as immigration agents, prevent state support for a potential registry based solely on national origin or religion and require detainees to be informed that they have a right to decline an interview with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It would not give immigrants immunity from prosecution for criminal acts.

The Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security will hear public testimony on the Safe Communities Act in rooms A1/A2 of the State House on Friday, June 9, at 10 a.m.

Watch the mayor's full speech below:

Photo by Patch staff