During the Cincinnati City Council meeting on June 11, 2025, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the treatment of immigrant populations and rising anti-Semitic rhetoric. The discussions highlighted the need for stronger local policies to protect vulnerable communities.

Ali Garcia, a resident from Eastgate, expressed her outrage over the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Price Hill, criticizing the city council for its perceived inaction. She called for a more robust response to ensure the safety of immigrant families, emphasizing that the city’s sanctuary status should translate into concrete policies rather than mere labels. Garcia urged council members to prioritize the needs of their constituents and take decisive action against ICE's presence in the community.

Felicia Zocum, representing the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, raised alarms about escalating anti-Semitic violence and rhetoric. She referenced recent violent incidents in other cities and urged council members to uphold a standard of decorum in public discourse. Zocum stressed the importance of creating a safe environment for all communities, particularly Jewish residents, and called for a rejection of language that incites violence.

Jack Cunningham, a long-time Democratic activist, shared his personal experiences with bullying and violence, expressing deep concern over the current political climate. He urged council members to defend the rights of citizens to peacefully protest and to stand against the federal government's actions that threaten community safety.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for local leadership to take a stand against federal policies perceived as harmful to Cincinnati's diverse communities. As residents continue to advocate for change, the council faces pressure to translate community concerns into actionable policies that foster safety and inclusivity for all.