On December 8, 2023, the City of Hood River declared a State of Emergency in response to recent federal immigration enforcement activities that have significantly impacted the local community. During the city council’s regular meeting, members unanimously instructed City Manager Abigail Elder to implement this declaration following concerns raised by residents regarding the treatment of immigrants.
Public comments at the meeting highlighted the pervasive fear experienced by local residents and immigrants due to federal actions. Many speakers shared personal stories that underscored the human impact of these enforcement operations. In light of these testimonies, Elder presented potential actions the city could undertake, referencing successful initiatives from other Oregon cities.
Community Engagement and Future Actions
After thorough discussions, which included input from District Attorney Matthew Ellis and Hood River City Attorney Dan Kearns, the city council resolved to take several steps beyond the emergency declaration. These include organizing community listening sessions to foster dialogue and understanding, training city staff on Oregon sanctuary laws, and establishing protocols for responding to inquiries from federal immigration agents.
Additionally, the council plans to consider a resolution to designate Hood River as a Sanctuary City during their next meeting scheduled for January 12, 2024. This resolution will also include ratifying the emergency declaration with provisions for potential amendments.
During the meeting, Council President Gladys Rivera emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional protections, stating, “The city has the responsibility to uphold the rule of law, and this includes ensuring constitutional protections, due process, judicial warrants, protections from unlawful detention…” Rivera added that federal authority does not negate these protections.
Councilor Doug Stepina expressed strong support for the emergency declaration, underscoring the significance of the planned listening sessions. “I think the listening sessions are especially important to make people feel safe, but also that we are listening at these meetings and getting information from the public,” he noted.
Commitment to Inclusivity
This declaration builds on the city council’s earlier initiatives aimed at fostering an inclusive community. Earlier in 2023, the council passed Resolution 2025-06, which affirmed Hood River as an inclusive and welcoming city. They also adopted a proclamation titled “Somos Immigrantes,” which recognizes Hood River as a city of immigrants, aligning with a local campaign organized by Riverside Church.
The actions taken by the Hood River City Council reflect a commitment to addressing the fears and concerns of its immigrant population while reinforcing community values of inclusivity and support. As the situation evolves, the council’s decisions and community engagement efforts will play a crucial role in shaping the local response to federal immigration policies.
