Reports of confirmed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity along the Hoboken–Jersey City border over the weekend have understandably raised alarm among Bloomfield residents. Given the recent cruel and unacceptable actions by ICE agents across the country and in New Jersey that have resulted in violence, detentions, and family separations, it is understandable that even activity outside our borders can quickly create fear and uncertainty.

Let me be clear: the safety, dignity, and constitutional rights of every Bloomfield resident are my top priority. Bloomfield remains a Fair and Welcoming Community, and our police do not participate in federal immigration enforcement, consistent with the New Jersey Attorney General’s Immigrant Trust Directive.

I have been in direct contact with the Governor’s office to coordinate on the recently announced tools and protections that they are developing to support transparency and accountability around federal immigration enforcement. I’m also in communication with other mayors and local officials to work towards developing a regional response coordination strategy.

As we continue to monitor developments and remain in communication with regional leaders, it is important that residents have access to accurate information and reliable support. We have compiled trusted legal and know-your-rights resources, and made them available at www.bloomfieldtwpnj.com/1690/Immigrant-Rights-Resources. We will continually update these resources, so please monitor this page. I urge you to rely on official state, county, and township communications for verified information. Most importantly, continue to look out for one another.

Bloomfield is your home. We will continue to stand by every resident, regardless of immigration status, and to lead with humanity, clarity, and resolve.