SOMERVILLE, MASS. (WHDH) - President Trump signed executive orders Wednesday, jumpstarting the construction of a U.S.-Mexico border wall and blocking federal funds to nearly 300 “sanctuary cities” in America.
In wake of the news, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh called for a press conference and expressed his sharp disapproval of Trump’s immigration policies.
Walsh said that he was “disturbed and angered” by Trump’s actions.
“The latest executive orders and statements made by the president about immigrants are a direct attack on Boston’s people, Boston’s strength and Boston’s values,” Walsh said.
Boston is considered to be one of many sanctuary cities scattered across New England and the country.
Walsh stressed that he would fight for all Bostonians to provide the “best quality of life.” He said immigrants are welcome to live at City Hall, even in his own office if needed.
“I will never turn my back on those seeking a better life,” Walsh said.
Somerville, also a sanctuary city, is in jeopardy of losing funding as well. Mayor Joseph Curtatone said Somerville could lose up to $6 million. He said the funding goes to the most vulnerable parts of the population.
“The irony of this all is the president, during his campaign, promised to help those cities that he accused the Democrats of abandoning,” Curtatone said.
He urged Trump to reconsider his decision, saying he hopes the president will visit Somerville to see it all firsthand.
Advocates believe sanctuary cities are important so people don’t live in constant fear of deportation.
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