Abington Township officials released a statement this week clarifying their position on immigration enforcement.
“It is important for all residents to understand the practices and policies we follow, as we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of everything in our community, regardless of immigration status,” the statement says.
The statement notes that the township does not enforce federal immigration laws and does not “inquire about an individual’s immigration status during routine police activities or when they access any other Township services.”
“We have not, and will not, enter into ICE’s 287(g) program, which empowers local law enforcement to enforce federal immigration laws,” the statement says. “We emphasize that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility. Local police departments are not required to enforce these laws unless they have entered into a formal agreement to do so, and Abington Township has no such agreement. We remain focused on our core mission: serving and protecting all members of the Abington Township community.”
Glenside Local reached out to Abington Township commissioners for additional comment. We will update this article if/when they respond.
The full statement is below:
In related news, Montgomery County Commissioners released a joint statement today to condemn “hate, division, and violence in all forms.”
“This is a moment to lower the temperature. We call on every resident to lead with respect, to disagree without tearing one another down, and to find paths forward even when it’s difficult,” the statement says. “By honoring our shared values, we make Montgomery County—and America—stronger, safer, and more united.”
“We may not always agree, but we choose respect, collaboration, and common ground. We preserve our democracy by engaging in respectful debate and recognizing the dignity of every person—no matter who they are, how they worship, who they love, or what they believe,” the statement says.
The joint statement dovetails off a recent controversy involving Montgomery County elected officials’ responses to the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk, among other issues.
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