Washington Leaders Support Keep Washington Working Act to Protect Immigrant Communities
August 19, 2025 | Bob Ferguson - Governor, Washington State
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Washington State leaders gathered for a pivotal press conference on August 19, 2025, to address ongoing legal threats from the Department of Justice regarding the state's sanctuary status. Governor Bob Ferguson and other officials emphasized their commitment to protecting immigrant communities and the economic stability of the state.
Ferguson highlighted the overwhelming support for the "Keep Washington Working Act," which has garnered backing from over 150 organizations across the state. He expressed concern over the economic impact of federal immigration enforcement, citing examples of local businesses suffering due to fear and uncertainty among immigrant workers. The governor pointed out that Washington's agricultural sector, vital to the state's economy, relies heavily on immigrant labor, and any disruption could lead to significant losses.
Representative Julio Cortez, vice chair of the Latino Democratic Caucus, reinforced the message of community safety and inclusivity. He stated that Washington is a state that values its immigrant population, which contributes significantly to the economy and culture. Cortez declared that the state would not be intimidated by federal actions aimed at dividing communities and would continue to prioritize public safety over immigration enforcement.
Malou Chavez, executive director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, echoed these sentiments, stressing the urgency of protecting immigrant rights amid rising federal deportation efforts. She noted the fear within immigrant communities, where individuals worry about separation from their families and potential deportation to dangerous situations.
The conference concluded with a strong reaffirmation of Washington's commitment to the "Keep Washington Working Act," which aims to prevent local resources from being used for federal immigration enforcement. The leaders emphasized that the law does not violate federal regulations but instead demands that the federal government respect local jurisdictions.
As Washington State stands firm in its defense of immigrant rights, the implications of this meeting resonate beyond state lines, signaling a broader commitment to community safety and economic resilience in the face of federal challenges.
Ferguson highlighted the overwhelming support for the "Keep Washington Working Act," which has garnered backing from over 150 organizations across the state. He expressed concern over the economic impact of federal immigration enforcement, citing examples of local businesses suffering due to fear and uncertainty among immigrant workers. The governor pointed out that Washington's agricultural sector, vital to the state's economy, relies heavily on immigrant labor, and any disruption could lead to significant losses.
Representative Julio Cortez, vice chair of the Latino Democratic Caucus, reinforced the message of community safety and inclusivity. He stated that Washington is a state that values its immigrant population, which contributes significantly to the economy and culture. Cortez declared that the state would not be intimidated by federal actions aimed at dividing communities and would continue to prioritize public safety over immigration enforcement.
Malou Chavez, executive director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, echoed these sentiments, stressing the urgency of protecting immigrant rights amid rising federal deportation efforts. She noted the fear within immigrant communities, where individuals worry about separation from their families and potential deportation to dangerous situations.
The conference concluded with a strong reaffirmation of Washington's commitment to the "Keep Washington Working Act," which aims to prevent local resources from being used for federal immigration enforcement. The leaders emphasized that the law does not violate federal regulations but instead demands that the federal government respect local jurisdictions.
As Washington State stands firm in its defense of immigrant rights, the implications of this meeting resonate beyond state lines, signaling a broader commitment to community safety and economic resilience in the face of federal challenges.
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