City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County Elected Officials Joint Statement

Our organizations believe that our diversity makes us stronger. And with that belief we are
unwavering in our commitment to a safe and welcoming community where everyone can grow
and thrive. It is critical for all residents to feel secure in our community and know they can live
their lives without being fearful while walking down the street, going to school, work or the
grocery store.

The expected U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (commonly called “Border Patrol”)
operations are causing unnecessary fear and uncertainty in our community as recent
operations in other cities have resulted in people without criminal records being detained and
violent protests being the result of unwarranted actions.

We want people in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County to know we stand with all residents who
simply want to go about their lives, contributing to our larger community. Each of our
organizations have made commitments to the people we serve to protect their rights and
dignity. We are committed to following the law and to protecting the rights of all people who call
Charlotte and Mecklenburg County home.

It is important for people to understand their rights. There are a number of organizations
standing ready to assist individuals seeking legal guidance on immigration matters and if
anyone has questions about their immigration status or rights, please reach out to those
organizations.

If you need the police, don’t hesitate to call 911. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department
(CMPD) does not participate in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations and is not involved in the planning or
execution of any federal immigration enforcement activities.

We know many of you want to speak out and make your voices heard — and that’s your right.
We ask that, as a community, we do so peacefully. We do not want to see violence like many
witnessed in other cities. We can stand up for what we believe in without resorting to violence.
Our region has thrived and grown because our strength lies in our diversity and our collective
commitment to each other and to this community. Let us all — no matter our political
allegiance – stand together for all hard working and law-abiding families.