10/07/2025
🗣️ At the October 7 Cortland Common Council meeting, Amanda X called on the City to match its words with action — urging Councilmembers to adopt a policy prohibiting the use of city-owned property for civil immigration enforcement.
Last month, the City issued a Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month proclamation recognizing the deep contributions of Latino residents to Cortland’s community and culture. Amanda reminded Council that such commitments must be backed by meaningful policy that ensures safety, dignity, and protection for all of our residents.
She proposed that Cortland adopt a local version of the “ICE-free” policy recently enacted in cities like Chicago — a measure that would prohibit Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from using city-owned spaces as staging or holding areas for civil immigration enforcement.
Read her full remarks below:
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📝 Full Statement from Amanda X:
Last month this body issued a Hispanic Latino Heritage Month proclamation recognizing the deep contributions of Latino residents to the City of Cortland’s culture and life. That commitment deserves to be backed by policy.
Only two years ago, Cortland County issued an emergency order regarding Venezuelan asylum seekers — an act that many interpreted as hostile to newcomers in need and contrary to our shared American values. Combined with today’s shifting political climate, such blemishes on our county’s record have left many residents uncertain of their safety and of how local governments will respond if federal immigration enforcement arrives at their doorstep, rightfully or not.
I’m asking Council to consider a formal ICE-free policy for city-owned properties, similar to Chicago’s recent executive order. Such a stance would affirm that our municipal buildings, lots, and facilities are not to be used as staging grounds or holding areas for civil immigration enforcement actions.
This isn’t about obstructing federal law. It’s about protecting Cortland’s residents, property, and legal jurisdiction. When city spaces are used for operations beyond our authority, the city bears the risk — including property damage which we likely receive no restitution for and liability for actions we did not authorize.
Additionally, it undermines public trust, making people less likely to report crimes, risk on-the-books employment, or even participate in basic community life like attending church.
An ICE-free policy would make clear that Cortland governs its own properties and will not allow their use in ways that endanger residents or expose the city to harm. It’s a practical step that matches the values expressed in your proclamation — turning words of inclusion into concrete protection.
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📍 We’re proud to uplift voices calling for bold, compassionate policy. Thank you, Amanda, for your thoughtful advocacy.
