WASHINGTON — Arlington, Virginia, leaders are working to reassure residents who are concerned following the election of Donald Trump to the presidency.
“I’ve been hearing from a number of members of our community for whom their particular uncertainty is tinged with fear,” said Arlington County Board Member Katie Cristol.
Trump has promised to deport those who are in the country illegally, but Cristol said local authorities would not be at the forefront of any such possible effort.
“Arlington County law enforcement does not monitor, detain, interview or investigate people solely for the purpose of determining their immigration status,” she said.
In response to Trump’s calls to limit Muslim refugees, she underscored Arlington’s “legacy as a welcoming home to refugees from all over the world.”
“Arlington County has always been and will remain a community that welcomes and values all its residents, treating them with human dignity and respect regardless of immigration status,” said Jay Fisette, another board member.
“This is a beautiful, wonderful community and we will do everything we can to preserve it,” said Board Chair Libby Garvey, “and I am hopeful that we can.”
Voters in Arlington overwhelmingly favored Hillary Clinton over Trump in the presidential race.
