ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On Monday, July 21, Mayor Tim Keller signed an executive order aimed at strengthening protections for immigrant and refugee communities in Albuquerque. The order reaffirms the city’s stance as an immigrant-friendly community and outlines new measures to limit local involvement in federal civil immigration enforcement.
The order prohibits city departments and employees from using city resources to assist in federal immigration raids or detentions unless legally required. It also directs the Office of Equity and Inclusion to oversee implementation and coordinate with legal providers, schools, and nonprofits to support affected families.
Key provisions include:
- Due Process Protections: No city agency may assist in civil immigration enforcement without legal obligation.
- Transparency: City staff must report any ICE activity at public facilities to the Mayor’s Office.
- Youth Support: Departments serving children must develop trauma-informed protocols.
- Community Services: Expanded access to housing, healthcare, and education support for impacted families.
The order also calls for regular Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to monitor federal enforcement activity and commits to prosecuting individuals who impersonate law enforcement to target immigrants.
The move drew mixed reactions. Supporters, including advocacy group El CENTRO de Igualdad y Derechos, praised the order as a step toward justice and inclusion. Critics, including mayoral challengers and some city councilors, called it politically motivated and questioned its impact on public safety.
Mayor Keller defended the order, saying, “This is about protecting families and reaffirming our values. It’s not about politics—it’s about people.”
