Human Rights

Here's Why You Keep Hearing About 'Sanctuary Cities'

The number of "sanctuaries" is increasing, even though President Trump signed an executive order to cut their funding.

Here's Why You Keep Hearing About 'Sanctuary Cities'
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More places in the U.S. are being called "sanctuary cities." That means they have policies that limit federal detention requests for immigrants.

Some people say those cities protect undocumented immigrants.

"You're seeing the city of Cincinnati, Hamilton County and the state coming together here to say, 'Over our dead body will Cincinnati become a sanctuary city,'" said Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel, who is Republican.

Undocumented Students Weather The Deportation Storm
Undocumented Students Weather The Deportation Storm

Undocumented Students Weather The Deportation Storm

Students at the University of Texas meet weekly to give resources and advice to the undocumented community in Austin.

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Right now, cities and counties in dozens of states and Washington, D.C., are considered sanctuaries for undocumented immigrants. In some places if those immigrants are arrested, they may not be pressed for their immigration status and, therefore, may not be deported, even if they serve time.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order to cut funding for places that are considered "sanctuaries."

Reports and studies found sanctuary cities and counties often have less crime and can be safer than those that report individuals to federal immigration officials.