APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Following President Donald Trump’s executive orders this past Wednesday against immigrants, the Mayor of Appleton talked to members of the community affected by the news.
Speaking to a full crowd Sunday morning at St. Therese Church, Appleton Mayor Tim Hanna addressed immigration and answered questions about city policies.
Afterwards, Hanna spoke to WLUK.
“I want them to know that we still care about them that they’re part of our community.”
Norys Pina, who runs Unidos por un Futuro Mejor Fox Cities, says many immigrants are concerned.
“The community is living in fear right now with all that is happening around the country. We think it is important for the community to hear the message directly from the mayor.”
On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order denying federal funding to sanctuary cities, which are cities that don’t follow federal orders to detain illegal immigrants.
Hanna says… “We have not declared ourselves a sanctuary city, we do work with the federal government. When they request our assistance we provide assistance.”
But Hanna says that does not mean Appleton police will actively seek out and detain illegal immigrants.
“We still treat people as human beings. We’re going to treat them with dignity and respect, that’s not going to change”
Trump goes on to say his order focuses on people who pose a threat to public safety.
Back at Sunday’s meeting, attendees, like Claudio Lewin, focused on what Hanna had to say.
“I know he meant what he said. He made me feel safe, that’s for sure.”
The group says it will continue to host community events like this to keep the conversation going.
Since Appleton has not formally declared itself a sanctuary city, Hanna says it is unclear whether or not federal funding will be withheld.
