PRESS RELEASE
August 22, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Sarah Henry, Public Information Officer
(510) 747-4714
The City of Alameda is electing not to submit an application for our proposed allocation of the 2018 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) from the U.S. Department of Justice (USDOJ). Chief of Police Paul Rolleri advised Alameda County officials that the City would not apply for this federal grant, which means Alameda’s allocation of $10,511.75 will be distributed to other agencies in Alameda County.
Last year, a new procedure was established in order for the City of Alameda to apply for this grant, which requires the City Manager to certify that the City does not restrict sending or receiving information regarding citizenship or immigration status. The City of Alameda was the first city in Alameda County that did not agree to sign the Certification of Compliance from the USDOJ.
The City provides public safety for all, regardless of immigration status. The certification from the USDOJ does not meet the intent of the Alameda City Council’s Sanctuary City Resolution adopted in January 2017, affirming the City’s commitment to the values of dignity, inclusivity, and respect for all individuals, regardless of ethnic or national origin, gender, race, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, or immigration status. Alameda’s resolution reaffirmed the stand the City has taken for many years against biased, racist, and unconstitutional acts against undocumented immigrants.
