Statement from Sustain Charlotte on Reports of Planned Federal Immigration Actions

Charlotte — Sustain Charlotte stands firmly with our immigrant neighbors and every member of our community who is experiencing fear and uncertainty in light of reports that federal agents may be deployed in Charlotte in the coming days.

Advancing equity in all forms has always been part of our DNA. It is central to our mission because every decision our city makes should move us toward a community where everyone is safe, valued, and treated with dignity and respect.

Immigrants are vital and equal members of Charlotte. They contribute to our culture, our economy, our neighborhoods, and our collective well-being. They deserve the same respect, dignity, and due process as anyone born in this country. We belong to one human family, and differences in language, skin color, or the place we were born do not diminish our shared humanity.

We call on all Charlotte residents to stand together and reject any action that threatens the safety or civil rights of our neighbors. When we allow harm to be inflicted on one group, we weaken the safety and peace of our entire community. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr so eloquently reminded us: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

We also call on local, state, and federal leaders to use every tool at their disposal to defend and support immigrant families in this moment. Protecting the rights and safety of all people who call Charlotte home is essential to the health of our democracy.

Sustain Charlotte is committed to standing with our immigrant neighbors today, tomorrow, and in the days ahead. Our community is strongest when we stand together.

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