In a session marked by tension, protest chants, and repeated calls to order, Councilmembers Rue Landau (Democratic Party, At-Large) and Kendra Brooks (Working Families Party, At-Large) officially introduced on January 29, at Philadelphia City Hall the legislative package known as “ICE OUT.” The ambitious initiative seeks to limit the activity of federal immigration agents in the City of Philadelphia.
From the City Council gallery, demonstrators chanted “ICE Out!”, forcing Council President Kenyatta Johnson to intervene several times to call for silence and respect as the session continued. Despite the agitated atmosphere, the council members moved forward with the presentation of the proposal, which already has the backing of a veto-proof majority within City Council. The Council has 17 members, and a simple majority at least 9 favorable votes out of 17 is required if all members vote.
The “ICE OUT” package is made up of several measures aimed at strengthening local protections against immigration enforcement operations. These include prohibiting the use of municipal property for immigration purposes, preventing federal agents from using masks or unmarked vehicles, and restricting access to public buildings without a judicial warrant.
The initiative has gained notable popularity among councilmembers, which could force Mayor Cherelle L. Parker to become directly involved in one of the most sensitive issues in local political debate: immigration and the City’s relationship with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Public reactions: fear, anger, and hope
Several community leaders, students, and community members spoke out during the session. Among them was Teófilo Reyes, Organizing Director for Make the Road Pennsylvania, who expressed a strong position on the urgency of approving the measures:
“It is essential that this package passes, because the violation of rights in this country has increased to a level not seen in perhaps 100 years. The fact that the federal government wants to do away with the need for a judicial warrant to enter a home is simply impossible to accept,” Reyes emphasized.
Among attendees, a mix of emotions was evident. Some expressed enthusiasm and hope, while others showed concern and anger. Several people commented that, despite fear, they are not willing to back down:
“There is tremendous fear in the community right now—not only in the immigrant community. It’s in the Hispanic, Latino community and in every ethnicity, because this is a generalized attack, and you can’t live like this,” said one demonstrator.
One example is Lidia, a mother of three who has worked in cleaning services for 18 years:
“That violence can come to Philadelphia abuse of power and we cannot allow ICE to use city resources without consequences.”
Councilmembers announced that in the coming weeks they will detail the scope of each ordinance that makes up the package, which, if approved, would redefine the limits of cooperation between the City of Philadelphia and federal immigration authorities.
The meeting closed with applause and animated conversations, making it clear that although fear is present, the community is also determined to defend and expand its rights.
