During the Pueblo County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on June 10, 2025, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed resolution that would align local law enforcement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) practices. The meeting highlighted deep concerns regarding the impact of such policies on the immigrant community, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding.
Several speakers, including representatives from immigrant advocacy groups, expressed their belief that collaboration with ICE would exacerbate fear and mistrust within the community. Sally Sharp, a dispatcher with the Colorado Rapid Response Network, shared personal experiences that illustrated the trauma faced by immigrant families, particularly those separated from their children. She argued that the resolution was no longer relevant following the removal of a list of sanctuary locations from the Department of Homeland Security's website, suggesting that the community should not cooperate with ICE.
Brianna Guerrero, another speaker, emphasized the dangers posed by the resolution, stating that it would endanger families and undermine the safety of both documented and undocumented residents. She urged the commissioners to reconsider their stance, highlighting the historical context of immigration in the region and the contributions of immigrant communities to Pueblo.
Estella Riveles echoed these sentiments, criticizing the current administration's approach to immigration as fearmongering. She called for unity and protection of vulnerable populations, arguing that immigrants enrich the community rather than threaten it. Riveles and others pointed out that the proposed resolution could lead to a police state, where fear and suspicion replace the community's values of support and inclusivity.
The meeting underscored a significant divide between community members advocating for immigrant rights and the commissioners considering the resolution. As discussions continue, the implications of the proposed policies remain a pressing concern for many residents, who fear that such measures could further alienate and endanger their neighbors. The board's decision will likely shape the future of immigration policy in Pueblo County, reflecting broader national debates on immigration and community safety.