San Diego Unified announces support for city ordinance requiring due process for federal agents
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) approved a resolution on Tuesday announcing their support of a recently passed city ordinance that establishes safeguards against unauthorized federal operations.
The local law requires Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to acquire judicial warrants to enter city-controlled non-public property and prohibits agents from targeting individuals based on protected characteristics. San Diego City Council unanimously passed the ordinance on Oct. 20.
“San Diego Unified is proud to stand with the City of San Diego in affirming our shared values of safety, inclusion, and equal treatment for all,” SDUSD Board President Cody Petterson said. “Our students and families must know that wherever they go in this city, their rights and dignity will be protected.”
This resolution comes after parents have been arrested by ICE outside of schools, including in San Diego and Chula Vista school districts.
SDUSD shared they also conducted training with staff to help them support students and share resources amid “uncertainties the Trump Administration might create.”
As a result of the resolution, the SDUSD will send a formal letter of support to San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and the City Council. The district also plans to incorporate similar practices in accordance with the law.
“No child or adult should be made to live in fear by the actions of our federal government, and we are here to do everything within our ability to uphold the values we teach in our classrooms of fairness, compassion, and respect for every individual,” Board Vice President Richard Barrera said.
Similarly, the San Diego County of Board of Supervisors has voted to advance policies curbing ICE impersonators and requiring due process for operations.
“San Diego County must affirm that transparency and dignity are foundational to public safety,” County Supervisor Paloma Aquirre shared in a social media statement.
Author of the city ordinance Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera said he was grateful for SDUSD’s support, stating it’s important for people to know their schools are a safe environment.
“San Diegans of all ages and backgrounds deserve to know their schools and their City are committed to making every person feels safe, respected, and treated with dignity. And they deserve to see that commitment through action,” Elo-Rivera said.
“By standing together with the City, we’re helping ensure that San Diego remains a place where every student and family can feel safe and supported,” Barrera added.
