Oxnard residents demand city council declare sanctuary status amid ICE arrests

In a charged atmosphere at Oxnard City Hall, community members voiced their deep concerns over recent immigration enforcement actions during the City Council meeting on February 4, 2025. The meeting, marked by emotional testimonies, highlighted the fear and uncertainty faced by many families in the city.

One resident shared a poignant account of their parents' long journey to residency, emphasizing the anxiety children experience when they do not know if their parents will return home after work. This sentiment resonated throughout the evening as speakers recounted harrowing stories of individuals being taken by ICE agents, often without any prior warning or justification. A father was reportedly apprehended just across the street from city offices, and another individual, confirmed to have no criminal record, was taken elsewhere in the city.

The narrative of fear was further fueled by accusations against the Oxnard Police Department (OPD) for allegedly collaborating with ICE. A speaker pointed out that the police chief had acknowledged ICE's presence in Oxnard, raising questions about the city's commitment to protecting its undocumented residents. The speaker criticized the council for previously opting to declare Oxnard a "safe city" rather than a sanctuary city, arguing that this decision has left vulnerable populations unprotected.

As the testimonies unfolded, another resident passionately described the terror that families endure, likening recent ICE actions to kidnapping. They recounted how individuals were taken from the sidewalk without explanation, reinforcing the perception that ICE is indiscriminately targeting members of the community. The speaker emphasized that many of those apprehended contribute significantly to the local economy, paying substantial taxes despite their undocumented status.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the City Council, urging them to prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents, particularly those living in fear of deportation. The emotional pleas from the community underscored a growing demand for transparency and accountability in local law enforcement's dealings with federal immigration authorities. As the council members listened, the weight of their decisions loomed large, with the future of many families hanging in the balance.