Aguadilla mayor joins call to protect immigrants’ rights

By The Star Staff

In light of the recent spate of interventions by federal authorities in communities populated predominantly by immigrants, Aguadilla Mayor Julio Roldán Concepción reminded the components of the municipal government that its primary duty is to guarantee the safety and civil and human rights of residents.

“In our city, harmonious coexistence and respect for all people, regardless of their origin or immigration status, is a priority,” the mayor said. “The Municipal Police of Aguadilla’s mission is ensuring security and peace in our community, but work related to immigration should be the responsibility of federal authorities.”

Likewise, Roldán Concepción sent letters to the Consul of the Dominican Republic in Puerto Rico, Hon. César Cedeño, and to Annette Martínez Orabona, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in Puerto Rico, in which he commits to guaranteeing the rights of the migrant community on the island.

“In Aguadilla, we will guarantee the provision of services to the immigrant community under Laws 97 of 2013 and 21 of 2015,” Roldán Concepción said. “Deportations and the power to carry out raids are strictly the responsibility of the federal government, therefore, the Municipal Police of Aguadilla has no role in the execution of these operations, just like no government agency of our municipality.”

The mayor also announced that he is making municipal facilities available to the ACLU and any organization interested in offering orientation services to the immigrant community. He added that in the coming days a series of initiatives will be announced to provide assistance and orientation to the immigrant community residing in Aguadilla.