Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. denounces the decision made on TX SB4, which outlaws “sanctuary cities” by requiring local police, including campus police departments, to inquire about the immigration status of people they lawfully detain. This bill also puts in sanctions for local peace officers (sheriffs, constables, police chiefs, and other local leaders) who do not cooperate with federal immigration authorities to hold individuals who are subject to immigration.
We have historically seen the impact of racist and xenophobic policies that primarily target people of color in regards to their immigration status. Like AZ SB1070, TX SB4, is a policy that could become a “show me your papers” law; therefore, allowing for racial profiling on the basis of “assumed” immigration status. The larger impact on these communities is one of racial profiling and possible “illegal” arrests.
Texas State Representative (D-123) and Founding Brother Diego Bernal (Alpha Omicron, Fall 1997), from San Antonio, TX, released a statement to his constituents saying, “The passage of SB4 undermines public safety by changing the community’s perception of trusted local police officers to that of feared immigration authorities, discouraging immigrants from calling the police in emergency situations.”
Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. is committed to empowering and serving as a leader and voice for the Latino communities and other communities of color. Lambda Theta Phi will continue to uphold and enhance the interests and aspirations of our Latino Unity for the achievement of social justice for all Latinos and dedicate ourselves to uphold our responsibility to develop political consciousness and personal and spiritual strength to be a positive and constructive force to serve our entire Latino community.
Texas SB4 is not in alignment with the mission and values of Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc., and do not support any and all oppressive policies that dehumanize and discriminate against people or communities as they go against what our organization stands for, in pursuing equity and human rights for all peoples.
Bill Summary
Relating to the enforcement by campus police departments and certain local governmental entities of state and federal laws governing immigration and to related duties and liability of certain persons in the criminal justice system; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.