Providing safety: I am proud of Portland as a sanctuary city and support our local government’s defiance of a system of immigration that is backlogged, broken and in dire need of reform. Sanctuary cities are important because, regardless of their situation, illegal immigrants are our neighbors, friends and families. For everyone’s safety we want them to be able to call the police for help without worrying that their families will be broken up or that reporting a small crime will result in a disproportionate punishment.
A sad but real example: victims of domestic abuse are already dealing with an emotionally complex situation. If there is a stigma that calling the police will bring in federal agents, it makes it that much harder for people to get the help they need. Our police are also safer in an environment where they are not directly associated with deportation. Sanctuary cities are vital for everyone’s safety and we should stand proud in the face of a new administration that is ignorant of the reality in which we live.
Nick Boyd, Southeast Portland
Supreme Court pick: I don’t think President Trump’s selection for Supreme Court will have a huge impact on the court (one conservative judge for another). Unfortunately, with a couple of aging judges, he will probably get a second chance. That is when we could see a huge change.
Shannon Moon Leonetti, Southwest Portland
Better late than never: I am glad to see the Democrats at least putting PERS on the table to discuss. It is something that should have been done already, but better late than never. I hope that the intelligent discussion includes trying to cut back future benefits and raising taxes. I think the time of a one-sided solution is past. It will take leadership and trust, but it is very important for the future of Oregon economics.
Brian Ruder, Northwest Portland
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