Executive Constantine on new travel ban: In King County, we are taking a much different path

From King County Executive Dow Constantine

The new Executive Order on immigration announced today may have different words, but the spirit is the same: to exclude people based on their religion and country of origin. Such a policy betrays the fundamental principle that has guided our nation since its inception and been central to our success: that we welcome people who come here fleeing tyranny, fleeing oppression, seeking a better life.

At King County, we are taking a much different path. We are a welcoming community, and I thank Council Chair Joe McDermott and the rest of the King County Council for their fast action on my plan to provide rapid services to help people navigate the naturalization process, as well as supporting community organizations on the front lines of immigrant rights and education.

In addition, more than 75 local elected officials have signed our pledge affirming King County is a welcoming community, and later this month we will convene regional leaders to coordinate local responses and provide legal analysis on federal immigration policies. With our partners around the region, we proudly uphold the promise of hope, freedom and opportunity for all.