HomeMy WebLinkAboutCorrespondence - 21
Flores, Dora
From:Hairo Cortes <cortes.hairo@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Subject:Item 21: Support
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good morning, I am writing in support of reconvening the city’s Sanctuary Policy Advisory Committee.
The Committee is needed more then ever as cities across the country face raids by immigration enforcement
agents, and new threats that seek to compel collaboration between local law enforcement and immigration
enforcement agencies.
The Committee is and will be an invaluable asset that will ensure the city receives recommendations on best
practices to protect its residents. It will also ensure that the city receives advise from a multitude of experts
committed to immigrant rights.
1
Flores, Dora
From:Anonymousemail <noreply@anonymousemail.eu>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4, 2025 11:03 AM
To:eComment
Subject:Opposition to Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Powered by Anonymousemail
Hello,
I'd like to express opposition to the reinforcement of our sanctuary city proposal by councilwoman Lopez.
I'm writing as an undocumented person myself for more than 20 years.
Let's state that the sanctuary city status only means that the police department is not going to work with
immigration authorities once they arrest a bad person.
Unfortunately, that forces ICE to look for those people in the barrios instead of jail. Meaning that they may
come to my neighborhood for a drug dealer nearby my home, and I may be arrested just for being in the wrong
place at the right time. There are plenty of videos in social media where this happens.
On the other side of the coin, non-sanctuary cities do not see ICE on their streets. If the immigration authority is
looking for a specific person, they'll find him/her in jail.
Unless I don't understand the role of the advisory group, supporting the proposal will also indicate who you
prioritize- those who try to do our best to live in this country following the law as much as possible, or those
who come to commit crimes and put the whole good undocumented community in jeopardy.
I would like you to discuss on the floor how the RICO Act can affect those Councilmembers who actively
enable undocumented people to commit crimes and released on our streets over and over. Especially if good
standing neighbors are deported because of the situation described in the fourth paragraph.
Thanks
A Santa Ana neighbor
2
Flores, Dora
From:Escamilla, Manny <manuel.escamilla@ocgov.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4, 2025 11:40 AM
To:eComment
Cc:Nunez, Alvaro; Vazquez, Sylvia; Thai, Minh; Downs, Kathryn
Subject:Item 21 - Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group - Letter of Support
Attachments:Letter of Support - City of Santa Ana - Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor and City Council,
Please see the a?ached le?er of support from Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento regarding Item 21 - Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group.
All the best,
Manny
Bcc: Supervisor Sarmiento; Mayor and City Council; Yasie Goebel
Manuel J. Escamilla
manuel.escamilla@ocgov.com
Senior Policy Advisor
Office of Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento
County Administration North
400 W. Civic Center Drive, Sixth Floor
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Office: 714-834-3220
Cell: 657-401-5554
4
VICENTE SARMIENTO
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
SUPERVISOR, SECOND DISTRICT
COUNTY ADMINISTRATION NORTH BUILDING
400 W. CIVIC CENTER DRIVE. SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA 92701
PHONE (714) 834-3220
February 4th, 2025
Mayor and City Council
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA
RE: Item 21 - Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group - Letter of Support
Dear Mayor and Council,
I am pleased to provide this letter of support for Councilmember Jessie Lopez’s request to reconvene the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.
I was a Santa Ana City Councilmember in 2016 when the City’s sanctuary designation was adopted, and
the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group was established to help advise City officials on polices to implement
this sanctuary designation. I believe that our residents will benefit from an engaged advisory group to help
pro-actively navigate responses to the anti-immigrant efforts the current administration is pursuing locally,
and across the Country.
In 2017 City Management met with the OC Immigrant Rights Policy Working Group and subsequently
invited a wide range of organizations including Santa Ana Building Healthy Communities, Resilience OC,
Orange County Immigrant Youth United, Western State College of Law, SACRED, ACLU of Orange
County, UCI Law School, and the Mexican consulate’s office to participate in the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group. Many of these organizations are still active and other new groups have also emerged in
defense of our immigrant communities.
I write this letter of support to encourage a wide base of participation and openness to all organizations that
are working to defend our community members, especially including representatives from our growing
Vietnamese and Arab/Muslim communities This moment calls on all of us to work together to defend our
undocumented neighbors, many of whom we call our friends, colleagues, and family.
I am proud to support this effort and should you have any questions please reach out to my office at 714-
834-3220 or vicente.sarmiento@ocgov.com.
Sincerely,
Vicente Sarmiento
Supervisor, Second District
Flores, Dora
From:Celeste Sanchez <sanchez.celeste25@yahoo.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello,
I am a resident of Santa Ana, and I am emailing the city council to urge city council members to support sanctuary
ordinance, through Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group. It is crucial for our city to support and commit to the safety of our
residents during these uncertain and fearful times.
Thank You,
Celeste,
SA Resident
5
Flores, Dora
From:Maria Ceja <ceja.maria95@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday,
To:eComment
Subject:Council member requested item #21
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am Maria Ceja, a Ward 5 resident and born and raised in Santanera. I am the product of immigrants, like many others
who call this beautiful city home. Santa Ana is a majority immigrant community that should stand with our undocumented
family members, friends, neighbors, and community members, forever and always. This is why I am writing to support
Item #21 and urge the Council to move forward with bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to encourage
those that hold the most power locally to navigate the current and changing terrain of immigration in light of the new
presidential administration and the recent actions across the country to instill very valid fears and terror amongst the
immigration community.
In 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force made up of
community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft policies to
protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in
court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa
Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Maria Ceja
Ward 5 Resident & Santa Ana Community member
1
Flores, Dora
From:Yadany Lievanos <yadanylievanos@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Yadany Lievanos
San Juan Capistrano
2
Flores, Dora
From:ana vargas <avargaaas@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday,
To:eComment
Subject:Item 21
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Council members,
My name is Ana Vargas and am in full support in continuing to keep our city a sanctuary place for the
community. I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing
back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents. In January 2017,
the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force made up of
community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants
fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is
the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary
Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant
residents. Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the
political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman
Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and
recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Ana Vargas, city of Santa Ana
3
Flores, Dora
From:Mayra Vargas <vargas_2011@hotmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Subject:Item 21-Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Mayra Vargas, I am a 31 year old born and raised Santa Ana resident. My family relocated to Santa
Ana over 35 years ago and have made this city their home. My parents are now in their 60’s and with this
administration they are now, yet again, living in fear. Their only crime having been crossing the border for a
better future for their kids. I stand with the immigrant community, for I do not know who this administration
will take aim at next. May I remind the council of the thousands of dollars that immigrants bring into this city
without anything in return. We must fight for them and fight for better treatment of our most vulnerable.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Mayra Vargas
Santa Ana Resident
Sent from my iPhone
4
Flores, Dora
From:Yesenia Altamirano <yaltamirano@chirla.org>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4,
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Yesenia Altamirano, an Orange County resident and community organizer who has directly
impacted community members/ constituents who are concerned about their safety due to current political
climate. Hard working families should not fear for their safety, nor should they fear being separated from their
children every day on their way to school, work, or simply to pick up groceries. It is time to work together to
help our families find appropriate resources and information because they are a vital part of the Santa Ana
community. We must maintain and reinforce Santa Ana's sanctuary policies.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Yesenia Altamirano
Orange County Regional Organizer
CHIRLA
Get Outlook for iOS
5
Flores, Dora
From:Erin <tehrin@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, 12:35 PM
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I have been a resident of Orange County since I was 7 years old. My entire life, immigrants have occupied important
places in my life such as being my neighbors, friends, teachers, coworkers, etc. They have also been yours. Our lives are
enriched by the immigrants we know.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Erin K.
Anaheim, CA
6
Flores, Dora
From:Kim Riley <kimberlylynriley@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday,
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:2/4/2025 Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am the daughter of a Vietnamese immigrant and grew up in Orange County. Growing up in Westminster,
California meant that my neighbors, my friends, my community, were made up of immigrants. I am dedicated
to protecting and enriching the lives of our community members and implore the City of Santa Ana to uphold
its commitment to its immigrant population as one of Orange County's sanctuary cities.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Kim Riley
Resident of Anaheim, CA
1
Flores, Dora
From:evelyn aguilar <evelynaguilar053@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Defend Santa Ana
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am a 28 year old, life long Santa Ana Resident, and coming from a family of immigrants myself, I would love
for Santa Ana to reaffirm it’s support for the sanctuary ordinance especially now in a time full of uncertainty and
fear among the community you were elected to serve.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Evelyn Aguilar
Santa Ana, CA
1
Flores, Dora
From:Izzy Biggs <izzyrbiggs@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday,
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Council-members,
My name is Isabella Biggs and I am a stalwart supporter of the protection of immigrants in Orange County,
regardless of status but especially those who are undocumented bI am 23 years old and an American citizen
born in Dallas, Texas, and moved to California in 2011. When my parents abandoned me financially and i was
facing homelessness, undocumented immigrants are the ones who kept me fed and housed. Without the
undocumented loved ones in my life I— in the most literal sense— would not be alive today. Orange County
runs and thrives on immigrants, they are the reason it has such a rich and vibrant culture. The strong community
in the OC is revered across California— and it’s because of the community that immigrants, undocumented or
otherwise, have nurtured. Undocumented immigrants are not criminals; they are important pillars in
communities that show the beauty of human nature— that prove humans inherently wish to help one another.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
3
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Isabella Renée Biggs
Stanton, California
4
Arevalo, Evelyn
From:
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 12:59 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Lizzette Olvera and I am a Santa Ana resident.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Lizzette Olvera
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Maria Estela Valencia <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 1:05 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Maria Estela Valencia, and I live in Ward 6. I have lived in Santa Ana for most of my life and have
seen the positive impact and richness our immigrants have given it. I am committed to ensuring the
unconditional belonging of all immigrants in Santa Ana and throughout Orange County.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group. This community oversight mechanism, written within the ordinance, facilitates trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time, and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles to protect the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request that the advisory
group reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways to protect residents better.
I look forward to the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance and Advisory Board and to its role in protecting
immigrants' rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Maria Estela Valencia
Ward 6 Resident, Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Alyse DeCavallas <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 1:07 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Council,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Alyse DeCavallas
Santa Ana Resident
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Aaron Cheng <acheng@aesd.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 1:11 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
Hi, my name is Aaron and I am a resident in Westminster, CA, but I strongly support the implementation of Sanctuary in
Santa Ana and supporting immigrants in OC.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Aaron Cheng
Anaheim Elementary School District
Westminster, CA
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: J Nada <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 1:35 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Jay Nada, I am a decades long citizen of Santa Ana and local artist. I am also a US citizen who has
gone through the process of becoming a naturalized citizen, and despite my legal status I fully believe in
providing the opportunity for others, in this case through the status of providing a sanctuary for folks to work
towards full citizenship without fear of reprisal.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Immigrants make the lifeblood of our city, and it is in our best interest, not only economically and culturally,
but morally to do so. Please join us in supporting immigrants and sanctuary in OC and our city. Should the
council succumb to a moral failing, you will see pushback and opposition, at a level yet unseen because we are
(as a country) at the precipice of horrific atrocity and the full inoculation of fascism in this country.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
When future generations look back, will you be proud to answer when they ask what you did during the rise of
American fascism?
Think about it.
i
Sincerely,
Jay Nada
Creative Director,Annex 46 Arts Collective
Santa Ana, CA
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Kevin <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:00 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Kevin Isunza, and I am a concerned resident of Santa Ana who cares deeply about our immigrant community.
With everything happening around immigration right now, it is more important than ever to ensure that our city remains a
place of safety and support for all residents.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Kevin Isunza
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Stephanie Cornwall <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:08 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Stephanie Cornwall and I am a resident of Costa Mesa, CA. I am committed to supporting our Orange County
immigrants. Taking additional action to support our most vulnerable communities is particularly important in times when
ICE has become more brazen and dangerous.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Cornwall
Resident of Costa Mesa
Sent from my iPhone
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Chetkagnchana Keo <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:23 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Council Members,
My name is Chetkagnchana Keo and I have been a Santa Ana resident for almost two decades now. In my time as a
resident, it has been so evident to see how integral they are to the city and the community along with all immigrants
across the nation. I am sharing my forever commitment helping and supporting immigrants in the OC and especially Santa
Ana, ss a proclaimed Sanctuary City, in all possible ways that I can.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Chetkagnchana Keo
Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Oswaldo Farias <oswaldo@resilienceoc.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:23 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: Letter of Support Santa Ana Sanctuary Policy (1).pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good afternoon,
On behalf of Resilience Orange County, I am writing to express our strong support for moving
forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, please see
the attached letter.
In Community,
Oswaldo Farias
Pronouns: (He/Him)
Deputy Director
Resilience Orange County
www.resilienceoc.org
Email: oswaldoPresilienceoc.org
Phone: 714-202-6320
THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY
FOR THE USE OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR ENTITY TO WHICH IT IS ADDRESSED AND MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION THAT IS PRIVILEGED,CONFIDENTIAL AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE
UNDER APPLICABLE LAW. IF THE READER OF THIS MESSAGE IS NOT THE INTENDED RECIPIENT OR THE EMPLOYEE OR AGENT
RESPONSIBLE FOR DELIVERING THE MESSAGE TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT,YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT ANY DISSEMINATION,DISTRIBUTION OR COPYING OF THIS
COMMUNICATION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
1
p 1
RESILIENCE ORANGE COUNTY 2790 Harbor Blvd.Suite 208,Costa Mesa,CA 92626
info@resilienceoc.org www.resilienceoc.org ResilienceOC
February 4, 2025
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
On behalf of Resilience Orange County, I am writing to express our strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and
bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group,a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust
and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Resilience Orange County is a community-based organization dedicated to empowering communities of color through
multi-generational organizing, participatory research,cultivating collaborations,and leadership development.As one of the founding
organizations of Santa Ana's Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group,we have worked to protect immigrant rights and advocate for policies
that ensure due process and foster a sense of belonging for residents.We remain committed to work alongside our communities at
the intersection of issues of immigrant, criminal,economic,and racial justice while emphasizing an approach that moves"at the
speed of trust."
In January 2017,the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force made up of
community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect
immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court.This advisory
group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for
the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City
of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,and human
rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene
within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance&Advisory Board and the role it will take to protect
immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Oswaldo Farias
Deputy Director
Resilience Orange County
CC: vamezcua(@santa-ana.org
PBacerra cDsanta-ana.ore
TPhan @santa-ana.ore
DPenaloza cDsanta-ana.org
JessieLopezCDsanta-ana.org
JRvanHernandez(@santa-ana.ora
bvazauez(@santa-ana.org
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Yesenia Martinez <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:12 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua,Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai
Subject: Public Comment: Agenda Item 21 - Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Yesenia Martinez
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Vanessa Avalos <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:29 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Vanessa and I have been living in Santa Ana since I was born in 1999. My parents arrived here in years before
that to create a better life for themselves and for my sister and I. My parents, like a lot of amazing immigrant parents, gave
their blood sweat and tears to build a comfortable life in this county. We cannot follow an agenda that supports separating
families. Hear your city's pleads.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Avalos
Santa Ana
Best,
.—
o
la�yy A.
1
Vanessa Avalos I B.A. in Criminology,Law, and Society
Santa Ana,CA
(714)305-4027
®vaneavalos437kgmail.com
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Ray Diaz <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:35 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 20 & 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: Letter in Support of Agenda Items # 20 & 21.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Ray Diaz and I am a proud life-long resident of Santa Ana, residing in Ward 6. 1 am the proud son of
immigrants and grandson of farm workers who picked the Orange Groves that once covered Orange County. My family
has also lived through and continues to live through the real implications of deportation and family separation. The impact
is not only multi-generational-- it can break families and create cycles of incarceration.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 20 & 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and
transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents. Additionally, I strongly urge the Council to
move with urgency in hiring a Police Oversight Director so that the Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission can
carry out its critical work.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana AND the hiring of the Police Oversight Director.
Sincerely,
Ray Diaz
Ward 6
Santa Ana, CA
Attached is the Letter of Support for Agenda Items# 20 & 21 in full.
Con Safos,
Ray Christopher Diaz
B.A. Politics I University of California, Santa Cruz
Cell- (
i
2
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Ray Diaz and I am a proud life-long resident of Santa Ana, residing in Ward
6. 1 am the proud son of immigrants and grandson of farm workers who picked the
Orange Groves that once covered Orange County. My family has also lived through and
continues to live through the real implications of deportation and family separation. The
impact is not only multi-generational-- it can break families and create cycles of
incarceration.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 20
& 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community
oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents. Additionally, I strongly urge
the Council to move with urgency in hiring a Police Oversight Director so that the
Santa Ana Police Oversight Commission can carry out its critical work.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they
would establish a task force made up of community members to advise the City Council
on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants
as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the
immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles
fighting for the political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant
communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to
reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways
they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory
Board and the role it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana AND the hiring
of the Police Oversight Director.
Sincerely,
Ray Diaz
Ward 6
Santa Ana, CA
Arevalo, Evelyn
From:
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:40 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with
Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the
ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of
Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with
language stating that they would establish a task force made up of
community members to advise the City Council on policies related to
the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as
well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met
for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community
and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust
and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant
residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-
based struggles fighting for the political, economic, and human rights
of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman
Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to
provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can
better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary
Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to protect
immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Andrea Nunez,
City of Anaheim
2
Alcala, Abigail
From:Angeles Ochoa Carmona <aochoa@occord.org>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:52 PM
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments:February 4th 2025_ Agenda Item 21 PC Email.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello,
Please see the attached letter. Thank you!
Best,
--
Angeles Ochoa Carmona
Digital Organizer
aochoa@occord.org
www.occord.org
1505 E 17th St, Suite 122, Santa Ana, CA 92705
1
Alcala, Abigail
From:Jon X <jon.x0410@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, PM
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Jonathan Morales, and I feel like Santa Ana should keep protecting immigrants because it benefits everyone.
I’m referring to the amount of money immigrants bring into the economy daily. They’re a big part of society, and if
historically correct Mexicans didn’t cross the boarder the boarder crossed them.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary
Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and
transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for
the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the
advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can
better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Morales
Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Karen Hernandez <karen@centerforhumanrights.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 2:57 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Fwd: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Apologies, I typed in the wrong email in error. Please see below.
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Karen Hernandez<karen o centerforhumanri h ts.org>
Date: Tue, Feb 4, 2025 at 2:54 PM
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
To: <Comment@santa-ana.org>
Cc: <vamezcua@santa-ana.org>, <PBacerra@santa-ana.org>, <TPhan o santa-ana.org>, <DPenaloza@santa-
ana org>, <JessieLopez o,santa-ana.org>, <JRyanHernandez c@santa-ana.org>, <bvazquez o,santa-ana.org>
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Karen Hernandez, I am a grassroots organizer with OC Rapid Response Network(OCRRN), a
policy advocate with the Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law (CHRCL), and a proud immigrant
from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico with roots in Orange County since the age of three. My experiences growing
up in Southern California as an undocumented person and seeing my friends and family members unjustly
detained and jailed due to bad policies, and racial profiling have informed my activism throughout my life and
engrained a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of our immigrant community. In both my roles with
OCRRN and CHRCL, our organizations provide a broad range of support to immigrants and to
legal service providers who serve immigrants, including public education and training. We respond to unlawful
local, state, and federal policies that impact our community members by engaging in systemic legal and
nonlegal advocacy. This advocacy impacts hundreds of thousands of people, including some with criminal
histories - none of which we ever leave behind and all of whom we want to protect.
I am writing to express my very strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
1
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Karen Hernandez
Organizer, OCRRN
Policy Advocate, CHRCL
CC: vamezcua(a)-santa-ana.orq
PBacerra(a)-santa-ana.orq
TPhan(a)santa-ana.orq
DPenaloza(a)-santa-ana.orq
JessieLopez(a)-santa-ana.orq
J Ryan Hernandez(a)-santa-ana.orq
bvazquez(a)-santa-ana.orq
Karen Hernandez (she/ her/ ella)
Operations Manager and Policy Advocate
Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law
(213)422-3630
admin centerforhumanrights.org
karen _centerforhumanrights.org
http://www.centerforhumanrights.org
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This communication, including any attachments, is for the sole use of
the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and legally privileged information. Any
unauthorized interception, review, use, distribution, or disclosure not authorized by the intended
recipient(s) is prohibited and may violate applicable laws, including the Electronic Communications
Privacy Act of 1986, Pub. L. 99-508, 100 Stat. 1848, codified at 18 U.S.C. §§ 2510 et seq. If you are
not the intended recipient, please contact the sender and destroy all copies of the original
communication.
z
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Grey Baltes <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:03 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Support of Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Grey Baltes. I firmly believe immigrants in Santa Ana and Orange County benefit the community
and deserve support.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Grey Baltes
Orange, CA
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Dorian Romero <dorian@saascoalition.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:04 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: Agenda Item 21 Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Dorian Romero, Project Director of Santa Ana Active Streets, a community based organization that
focuses on bicyclist and pedestrian safety and advocacy efforts in Santa Ana. In our work we understand that
getting around safely does not just mean on bike or foot. One's personal identity is a factor that influences how
our community members stay alive and get to their destinations safely. The majority of our program
participants come from immigrant backgrounds or households, and do not own a vehicle. Our work is
intersectional and believes that a liveable environment includes many factors such as clean air, safe roads,
affordable housing, access to open space and healthy food, and most importantly an environment that protects
and welcomes our immigrant communities. That is why we are committed to stand with our immigrant
community members in OC and Sanctuary in Santa Ana.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and
recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will
take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Dorian Romero
Santa Ana Active Streets, Project Director
Santa Ana, Ca
i
il� Win_
SANTA ANA ACTIVE STREETS
Dorian Romero, She/They
Project Director, Santa Ana Active Streets
714-340-5186
LCI 96944
@saasctivestreets
2
1
SANTA ANA ACTIVE STREETS
February 4th,2025
Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Dorian Romero, Project Director of Santa Ana Active Streets, a community based
organization that focuses on bicyclist and pedestrian safety and advocacy efforts in Santa Ana.
In our work we understand that getting around safely does not just mean on bike or foot. One's
personal identity is a factor that influences how our community members stay alive and get to
their destinations safely. The majority of our program participants come from immigrant
backgrounds or households, and do not own a vehicle. Our work is intersectional and believes
that a liveable environment includes many factors such as clean air, safe roads, affordable
housing, access to open space and healthy food, and most importantly an environment that
protects and welcomes our immigrant communities. That is why we are committed to stand with
our immigrant community members in OC and Sanctuary in Santa Ana.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing
back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the
ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant
residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would
establish a task force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies
related to the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as
recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court.
This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for
the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of
Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for
the political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with
Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide
updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board
and the role it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Dorian Romero
Santa Ana Active Streets, Project Director
Santa Ana, Ca
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Janice Valdivia <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:05 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Janice Valdivia and I have been a Santa Ana resident for
20+ years. I am writing to express my strong support for moving
forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the
ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of
Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with
language stating that they would establish a task force made up of
community members to advise the City Council on policies related to
the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as
well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met
for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community
and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust
and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant
residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-
based struggles fighting for the political, economic, and human rights
of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman
Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to
provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can
1
better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary
Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to protect
immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Janice Valdivia
Santa Ana
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Giselle Diaz <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:06 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Giselle Diaz and I have lived in Santa Ana for many years. These past couple of days have been full of fear
for immigrants in OC. They are the backbone to this community and deserve to live in a sanctuary city without having to
worry about going to work, weekly groceries, or simply going out for an outing. They deserve our full support.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Giselle Diaz
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Gucci Mar <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:07 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention:This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary
Policy Advisory Group. In January 2017,the Council passed a robust Ordinance stating it would help craft policies to
protect immigrants, and now the time to show you guys really meant that.
As of 2022 (according to datausa) the number of people born outside of the U.S. make up about 40.9%of the population
in Santa Ana,with the majority coming from a hispanic/latino background. And though it's been said that these ICE
agents are coming for violent criminals only, it is not true. There is evidence to support that these agents have led their
"investigations"through racial profiling while abusing power and have more of an incentive to meet a quota, then to
actually keep people safe.
A few examples:
• Gehobani Ruiz- (Resident)AL-arrested & detained by ICE
•Mother, Grandmother,Toddler- (Citizens) WI -arrested &detained by ICE
•U.S. Military vet-(Citizen) NJ -arrested &detained by ICE...The Mayor of Newark, NJ issued a statement himself that
the people of his city were being unlawfully terrorized by ICE
Kids shouldn't have to worry during the school day whether their parent/s will be home or not. Residents of Santa Ana
should feel safe in their city. A city that prides itself on uplifting its hardworking people &celebrating minorities,who
make up almost half of our city's population. We love this city and we need the city to show us that it loves us back.
I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates
to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Mariajose Jimenez
Santa Ana Resident
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Jennifer Gambino <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:08 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua,Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez,Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan;Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Council-members,
My name is Jennifer Gambino, and I am a proud daughter of first generation Mexican American immigrants.
Both my then undocumented parents migrated from different parts of Mexico and found refuge in Santa Ana
where they met, over 28 years ago. My grandmother still lives in Santa Ana and I am enrolled at Santa Ana
College. Santa Ana has always been with me and my heart is with my people. My voice is for my people and I
am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Gambino
Laguna Hills, CA
CC: vamezcua@santa-ana.org
PBbacerra@santa-ana.org
TPhan@santa-ana.org
DPenaloza@santa-ana.org
JessieLopez o santa-ana.org
JRyanHernandez@santa-ana.org
bvazquez o,santa-ana.org
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Kelly Christensen Ribuffo <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:13 PM
To: eComment
Subject: February 4, 2025 City Council Meeting, Agenda Item 21, Sanctuary City Policies
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good afternoon Mayor and Council,
My name is Kelly Ribuffo. I am a resident of Orange and frequent visitor to downtown Santa Ana, both for
work and personal business. I am writing to you today to voice my support for our immigrant neighbors, both in
Santa Ana and throughout Orange County.
Often, conservative Orange County politics have meant that our immigrant residents are not treated with the
same humanity and respect as other residents of the county, by private business and also by local city
governments. Santa Ana has always led the way in setting progressive policies that are good for the community,
and exemplifies those values that we all strive for in our own neighborhoods and cities where less inclusive
politics are still in power.
I hope that the Council will vote to reconvene the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group at tonight's City Council
meeting. Community oversight facilitates trust and transparency with your constituents and has a positive
impact beyond the borders of the city.
Thank you,
Kelly Ribuffo
Orange, CA
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Graciela Rocha <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:16 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Graciela, first generation Mexican-American. Daughter of an immigrant, granddaughter of
immigrants. It is crucial for me to speak up on and be the voice of those who can't speak for
themselves or be heard in this chaotic time. Committing to doing my part for our community in
sending this email.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back
the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance
to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would
establish a task force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related
to the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to
use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not
met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm
its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the
political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with
Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates
to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the
role it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Graciela Rocha
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: vee maxwell <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:18 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: "Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group"
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Veronica Maxwell and I have lived in Santa Ana since 1970 and worked at SAUSD from 1987-2001. 1 love my
city, it's diverse culture and how we have grown through these years. As a child of immigrants we live in a community of
hard working citizens, caring neighbors, united families (both immigrants and other nationalities) many of whom are
philanthropist within our city. We always welcome ALL people in our lovely haven called Santa Ana.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Veronica Maxwell
Resident of Santa Ana CA
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Bianca Isabella Diverde <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:21 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: letter of support
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Bianca Isabella DiVerde
MEChA de UCI, Co-Chair
Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Stephany Gutierrez <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:24 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group"
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
Hello, my name is Stephany Gutierrez. I'm a proud resident of Santa Ana, though I'm currently away finishing
my last semester of college. Growing up in a mixed-status family in Santa Ana shaped my deep commitment to
supporting immigrants and advocating for Sanctuary in our city. The fear my family and community have
experienced over the past two weeks is something I would never wish on anyone. It's this fear and the resilience
that rises in spite of it—that fuels my dedication to fighting for the dignity, safety, and rights of immigrant
communities.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
i
Stephany Gutierrez
Santa Ana Resident
Stephany Gutierrez
Harvard College I Class of 2025
Bachelor of Arts, Government
Secondary in Ethnicity, Migration, and Rights
LinkedIn
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: daelien estavillo <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:25 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua,Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez,Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan;Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Daelien Estavillo and I'm an indigenous tribal member apart of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara
Nation. I am commitment to supporting my community and the people who hold my community together. I
stand by the immigrants in Orange County and wish to speak up to be the voice for those who aren't able to do
so.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
,SE_P,'Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary on ways they can better protect residents.SEP_SEwI
Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely, 'SEP
Daelien Estavillo�SEP,
Santa Ana, CA
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Christina <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:27 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
As a Santa Ana resident, teacher, parent, and loud voice, I feel
compelled to share that this issue is very important to me, my students,
my friends, and loved ones.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with
Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the
ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of
Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with
language stating that they would establish a task force made up of
community members to advise the City Council on policies related to
the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as
well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met
for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community
and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust
and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant
residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-
1
based struggles fighting for the political, economic, and human rights
of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman
Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to
provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can
better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary
Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to protect
immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Christina Wilmer
Santa Ana resident
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Uyen Hoang <uyen@vietroc.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:27 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Hernandez, Johnathan; Lopez, Jessie; Penaloza, David; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai;
Amezcua, Valerie; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: VROC Letter of Support Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: VROC letter of support Agenda Item 21_ Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.pdf
,Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello,
Please see attached VROC's letter of support for agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group for today's
city council meeting. If you can confirm receipt of this email, that would greatly appreciated. Thank you very
much.
Warmly,
Uyen Hoang,MA, MPH (she/they)
Executive Director
ROC
Website I Facebook I Instagram I Linktree
Schedule a meeting with me I Hear my name pronunciation
1
VIET RAINBOW OF ORANGE COUNTY R O C
8682 Beach Blvd#200
Buena Park,CA 90620
IET RAINBOW OF ORANGE COUNTY info@vietroc.org
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Uyen Hoang and I am the Executive Director of Viet Rainbow of Orange County(VROC).
VROC is a grassroots nonprofit organization that advocates for and supports the needs of LGBTQ+
people of color and their loved ones through advocacy,research, education, and community building. I am
writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017,the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a
task force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the
ordinance,including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and
oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for
some time and with so much uncertainty,now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support
for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and
transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the
political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with
Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to
the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the
role it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Uyen Hoang,MA,MPH(she/they)
Executive Director of Viet Rainbow of ORange County
CC: vamezcua@santa-ana.org
PBacerra@santa-ana.org
TPhan@santa-ana.org
DPenaloza@santa-ana.org
JessieLopez@santa-ana.org
JRyanHernandez@santa-ana.org
bvazquez@santa-ana.org
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Gwynn Van Houten <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:30 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy advisory group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear City Councilmembers,
My name is Gavin and as a lifelong OC resident, I am committed to seeing my community be a safe place for everyone, no
matter their citizenship status or background. It is for this reason that I support Agenda Item 21 and the return of the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.
Approving the return of this task force, first established in 2017 along with Ordinance No. NS-2908 and made up of
community members, will restore a sense of trust between the City of Santa Ana and members of our resident immigrant
community. The language of this ordinance is meant to protect immigrant rights, shed transparency on the city's use of
resources, seek to reduce biased policing, and allow immigrants to fight deportation in court. The advisory group established
to oversee all this has not met in some time. Now would be a good time for the City to reaffirm their dedication to this
ordinance-- and thus, to the immigrants living here.
As Councilmember Lopez requested, reconvene the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group within 30 Days. Keep your residents
updated on what the city is doing to protect human rights. The immigrants of Santa Ana bring so much to the city and OC
at large, and the Sanctuary Policy is something to be proud of. Make good on that promise and show your commitment to
this ordinance by passing Agenda Item 21.
Sincerely,
Gavin Van Houten
Tustin resident
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Yesenia Valdivia <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:33 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; abvazquez@santa-ana.org
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Yesenia Valdivia
Ward 5 Resident
2130 W Ninth St Santa Ana CA 92703 United States
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Mabel Khoo <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:33 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Mabel Khoo and I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and
bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Mabel Khoo.
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Irene Mendoza <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:34 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Irene Mendoza, and I am a proud resident of Santa Ana. I grew up here and have called this community
home for most of my life. As an immigrant, along with my family, we have lived and worked here for over 30 years,
contributing to and growing with this city. I am deeply committed to supporting immigrants in Orange County and
advocating for Santa Ana as a sanctuary city, ensuring that our community remains a safe and welcoming place for all.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Irene Mendoza (she/her)
CC: vamezcuaa-santa-ana.orq
PBacerraa-santa-ana.orq
TPhan .santa-ana.orq
D Pena loza(a)santa-ana.orq
JessieLopeza-santa-ana.orq
J Ryan Hernandez(d-)santa-ana.orq
bvazgueza-santa-ana.orq
THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED ONLY FOR THE USE OF THE INDIVIDUAL OR ENTITY TO WHICH IT IS ADDRESSED AND MAY CONTAIN INFORMATION
THAT IS PRIVILEGED,CONFIDENTIAL,AND EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE UNDER APPLICABLE LAW. IF THE READER OF THIS MESSAGE IS NOT THE
1
INTENDED RECIPIENT OR THE EMPLOYEE OR AGENT RESPONSIBLE FOR DELIVERING THE MESSAGE TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT,YOU ARE
HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT ANY DISSEMINATION,DISTRIBUTION,OR COPYING OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Carolina Vilchis <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:37 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group"
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Carolina Vilchis. I was born and raised in Santa Ana. I attended school in SAUSD and graduated from
Saddleback HS. As a daughter of Mexican migrants, I have always been committed to supporting immigrant and migrant
rights. I received my BA in Chicanx/a/o Studies from Stanford University in 2007. Migrants are an important force in our
Santa Ana community and deserve to feel safe from prosecution.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Carolina Vilchis
City of Santa Ana resident
CC: vamezcuaa-santa-ana.orq
PBacerraa-santa-ana.orq
TPhan .santa-ana.orq
D Pena loza(o-)santa-ana.orq
JessieLopeza-santa-ana.orq
J Ryan Hernandeza-santa-ana.orq
bvazgueza-santa-ana.orq
Best,
1
Carolina Vilchis
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: MEChA UCI <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:38 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: letter of support
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Bianca Isabella DiVerde
MEChA de UCI, Co-Chair
Santa Ana
Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanx de Aztlan
MEChA de UC Irvine
@Dmecha.uci
La Union Hace La Fuerza
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Heidy Basulto <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:42 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: "Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Heidy Basulto, I am 22 years old and have been raised in Santa Ana my whole life. I currently
reside in Orange but Santa Ana will always be my hometown.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Heidy Basulto
Orange, Orange County
i
Alcala, Abigail
From:Yesenia Valdivia <yeseniavaldivia29@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and
recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will
take to protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Yesenia Valdivia
Ward 5 Resident
Santa Ana CA 92703 United States
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Mayra <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:42 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Mayra Lopez and I love Santa Ana and its entire community. Having lived here for my entire life, I believe it is
essential to keep this beautiful city as a Sanctuary City. I am an American Citizen but I've supported immigrants because
they are what make this country great. I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21
and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Mayra Lopez
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: yailin molina <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:47 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention:This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I have been living in Santa Ana my whole life like many others. I am proud to be from Santa Ana and have always
defended my home regardless of what people say. We have a community of people who care deeply about this city,
sometimes they don't show it politely but if given the proper time I know we can show up the way we need. We all fall
short sometimes, please carefully consider what you're planning and don't let Santa Ana fall.The pride and glory will
diminish if you remove the sanctuary policy.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary
Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and
transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court.This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for
the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the
advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can
better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Yailin Molina
Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Ramon Campos <ramon@undergroundgrit.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:48 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: Sanctuary Letter Of Support.docx.pdf
;Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello,
I am formally submitting the letter that is attached to this email as a public comment for the city council
meeting later today 2/4/2025.
Thank you
Ramon Campos I Case Manager
Underground GRIT
1914 West Orangewood Avenue, Suite 101
Orange Ca, 92868
C: 714-867-3338
www.under rg ound rig t.org
o
0
"The information contained in this electronic message is privileged and confidential. If you are not the intended
recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking any action in reliance on
the content of this information is strictly prohibited." "If you have received this copy in error, immediately
notify the sender by e-mail and delete the information from your system." (Welfare and Institutions Code,
Section 5328)
i
o
ID
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Ramon Campos, I am a case manager with Underground GRIT. Underground GRIT is a
non-profit organization that provides reentry services throughout Orange County. Many of our members
and staff are residents of Santa Ana. Underground GRIT promotes change in prisons,jails, and juvenile
institutions through innovative in-reach and transformative re-entry services. We believe that when we
Walk Through Life with our members we create communities and promote self sufficiency with advocacy
and support.
I am writing to express our strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a
task force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance,
including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a
city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and
with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant
community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the
political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with
Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to
the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role
it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Ramon Campos
Case Manager/Underground GRIT
Resident of Santa Ana
CC: vamezcua(aDsanta-ana.org
PBacerra(a_�santa-ana.org
TPhan a santa-ana.org
DPenalozar&santa-ana.org
Jessie Looez( .santa-ana.org
J Ryan Hernandezasanta-ana.org
bvazauez(ccDsanta-ana.org
Office of Administration
1914 W. Orangewood Ave Suite 101, Orange, CA 92868
(714) 345.2299 info@undergroundgrit.org www.undergroundgrit.org
GROWING DAILY. REGAINING INDEPENDENCE. INVESTING IN FUTURE GENERATIONS. TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY.
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Evelin Garcia <eveneygarcia@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:48 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Vazquez, Benjamin; Hernandez, Johnathan; Lopez, Jessie; Penaloza, David; Phan, Thai;
Bacerra, Phil; Amezcua, Valerie
Subject: Defend Sanctuary in Santa Ana
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Evelin Garcia and I am a native of Santa Ana. I currently reside in Costa Mesa but I spend quite a lot of time in
SA hanging out with friends and family as well as supporting the community. During this uncertain period in history, now is
the time for the community to stick together. Immigrants are the backbone of America and I am committed to assisting and
supporting my immigrant neighbors in Santa Ana.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Evelin Garcia
Costa Mesa, OC
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Jessenya Reyes <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:49 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Support for Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Jessenya, and I am proud to call Santa Ana my home for over 25 years now. It is a city that has
fundamentally shaped the person that I am today. It is also the reason I am very committed to supporting
immigrants here in Santa Ana and greater Orange County.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Jessenya Reyes
Resident of Santa Ana
Zip code: 92707
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Julie Vo <julie@ocaction.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:50 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: OC Action - Support for Santa Ana Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
On behalf of OC Action, we are submitting our letter of support for the re-establishment of the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group (Agenda Item 21) - letter attached.
Thank you,
Julie Vo
she/her/hers
Chief of Staff
A
INWW
OC ACTION
Wl julie@ocaction.org 1 (714) 908-6642
www.ocaction.org
i
Docusign Envelope ID: EC4855C6-OD6D-4C47-96C2-888E8470AE71
OC ACTION
February 4, 2025
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
On behalf of OC Action, I am writing to express our strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item
21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written
within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant
residents.
OC Action is a progressive AAPI-Latinx-Labor-Environmental Justice Alliance that seeks to build
progressive transformation of Orange County. The seven organizations that anchor OC Action
serve the emerging majority of the county—low-income, immigrant, Latinx and Asian American
communities that work across issues of immigrant, economic, and racial justice across the
county. Through our partnership, OC Action is committed to increasing the quality, scale and effectiveness
of civic participation in communities of color and among low-income populations
in Orange County.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a
task force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the
ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and
oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for
some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support
for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and
transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the
political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. OC Action stands firm with
Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to
the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
We look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the
role it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
9GOPOhfo by:
,61A t(,�AA& Pal
Jonat ian 'ai
Executive Director
OC Action
CC: vamezcua(c�santa-ana.org
PBacerra(a)santa-ana.org
TPhan(absanta-ana.org
DPenaloza(cDsanta-ana.org
JessieLopez(a)santa-ana.org
J Ryan Hernandez(a)santa-ana.org
bvazq u ez(dsanta-ana.org
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Greg Camphire <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:50 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I have made Santa Ana my home for over 10 years, along with my wife who was born and raised here, and her
parents who have been proud Santaneros for over 50 years. Like all U.S. residents who are not Indigenous to
this land, we recognize ourselves as immigrants and/or the descendents of immigrants. We love Santa Ana
because it is filled with proud and hardworking people, whether their families arrived here recently or
generations ago.
The federal immigration system has certainly failed many and is in need of reform. In the meantime, human
beings who live here--regardless of the bureaucratic state of their official documentation and the citizenship
status it may or may not bestow--deserve to be safe from deportation. Residents of this city have demonstrated
clearly and continuously that we want Santa Ana to be a sanctuary city that welcomes all and offers a truly safe
haven to responsible people from everywhere around the globe.
Therefore, I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing
back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Greg Camphire
i
Santa Ana
92701
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Jaykay <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:52 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Jasmine Palmerin
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Leslie Ruiz <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:52 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Leslie and I am a resident of Santa Ana who believes everyone deserves the right to feel safe,
especially in their own communities. I work and serve the city of Santa Ana by working closely with children
who live in our community. I want these children and their families to feel safe, which is why I am writing to
express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and
transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Leslie Ruiz
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Fatima <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:54 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with
Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the
ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of
Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with
language stating that they would establish a task force made up of
community members to advise the City Council on policies related to
the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as
well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met
for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community
and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust
and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant
residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-
based struggles fighting for the political, economic, and human rights
of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman
Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to
provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can
better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary
1
Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to protect
immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Fatima
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Elva Vicari <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:54 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City :
My name is Elva Vicari. I am proud to have lived for 57 years in Santa Ana. My parents, siblings , and my extended family
continue to live in Santa Ana along with my friends and former colleagues from Santa Ana Unified School District where I
taught for over 20 years. I am a first generation Mexican American , child of immigrants who strongly believe Santa Ana
should remain a sanctuary city.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa
Elva Vicari
Haverhill Massachusetts
CC:
vamezcuaa-santa-ana.orq
PBacerraa-santa-ana.orq
TPhan .santa-ana.orq
D Pena loza(a)santa-ana.orq
JessieLopeza-santa-ana.orq
J Ryan Hernandeza-santa-ana.orq
bvazgueza-santa-ana.orq
1
Elva M. Vicari
"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle,and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by
being shared."
-Buddha
2
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: L S <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:55 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Alex Sierra and I am deeply supportive of the rights of the people that live in my communities. I work with the
oc dsa regularly to help others and in that process have come to learn the value that every single person brings no matter
their background.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between
the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Alex Sierra
OC DSA
Buena Park
CC:
vamezcuaa-santa-ana.orq
PBacerraa-santa-ana.orq
TPhan .santa-ana.orq
D Pena lozaa-santa-ana.orq
JessieLopeza-santa-ana.orq
J Ryan Hernandeza-santa-ana.orq
bvazgueza-santa-ana.orq
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Helen Estrada <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:55 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Helen Yajaira Estrada
Student
Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Irma Flores <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:58 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Vazquez, Benjamin; Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez,
Jessie; Hernandez, Johnathan
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Irma Flores and I have lived in Santa Ana since 1970. My husband and I moved here from
Fountain Valley because of the cultural diversity and wonderful people. I immigrated to USA with a resident
card in the early 60s and became an US citizen in the early 80s. Santa Ana has been the safe haven and
home to my children, grandchildren, family, and friends. Now at my young age of 80 1 still consider my home.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Irma Flores
Resident of Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Eliana McElderry <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:58 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Eliana McElderry. I was a student at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, and many of my friends and friends'
families resided in Santa Ana. I spent the majority of my undergraduate researching, working with, and advocating for the
immigrant community in Orange County and beyond. I currently work with immigrants in Garden Grove and am committed
to supporting immigrants and refugees anywhere that they are. I know how important immigrants are to the city of Santa
Ana and to Orange County, and I believe that we must do everything that we possibly can to protect the people of our
beautiful county.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Eliana McElderry
Costa Mesa, CA
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Jenna Perez <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:59 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Jenna Perez, and I am a proud resident of Ward 1 in Santa Ana. Having been born and
raised in this city, I know firsthand that immigrants—regardless of their legal status—are the lifeblood of
Santa Ana. They are our neighbors, family members, and the owners of the businesses we rely on
daily. They deserve protection and support from the city they help build and sustain.
With the growing threat of mass deportations and rising anti-immigrant sentiments in neighboring cities like
Huntington Beach—where immigrant residents have been denied the protections of a sanctuary city—it is more
critical than ever for Santa Ana to not only stand firm in its commitment to immigrant rights but to lead the
charge. Santa Ana has the opportunity to be a beacon of hope and a model for other cities, showing what it
means to truly protect, uplift, and defend the immigrant communities that make our cities thrive.
I am writing to express my strong support for Agenda Item 21 and to urge you to move forward with
reinstating the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group. This community oversight mechanism, written into
the original ordinance, was designed to foster trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana
and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the City Council passed a robust ordinance that included the establishment of a task
force made up of community members to advise the Council on policies related to immigrant
protections. This advisory group was intended to help craft policies that safeguard immigrant
communities and provide recommendations on the use and oversight of a city fund to support
immigrants facing deportation. Unfortunately, the advisory group has not convened in some time.
Given the current climate of uncertainty, now is the time to reaffirm our city's commitment by reviving
this crucial group.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city reflects years of community-based struggles advocating for the
political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant population. I stand in full support of
Councilwoman Lopez's request to reconvene the advisory group within 30 days to provide updates
and recommendations on how the city can better protect its residents.
Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter. I look forward to seeing the Sanctuary
Policy Advisory Group reinstated and the positive role it will play in protecting immigrant rights in
Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Jenna Perez
Resident, Ward 1, Santa Ana
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Alice Nguyen <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:00 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Alice Nguyen, and I am a resident of Westminster, a sister city. Not only do many of my friends
live and/or work in Santa Ana, I also work with many students at UC Irvine who are from Santa Ana (and the
larger Orange County area). As neighboring cities, such as Huntington Beach, seek to further criminalize the
most vulnerable folks in our county, we need cities like Santa Ana who will protect their community members.
Santa Ana has consistently been at the forefront of protecting the rights and affirming the dignity of its
immigrants residents.
I hope the city continues to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its residents so I am therefore writing to express
my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Alice Nguyen
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Elena Vilchis <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:01 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Elena Vilchis and I am a teacher in Santa Ana that is committed to supporting and advocating for
the students and families I serve. Many of whom are undocumented and are feeling unsafe and uncertain
during these last few weeks.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Elena Vilchis
4th grade teacher, SAUSD
Aliso Viejo, CA
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Isuri Ramos <isuri@chispaoc.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:01 PM
To: eComment
Subject: SUPPORT Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: Chispa Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Please confirm receipt of this email
Isuri S. Ramos (she/her)
Deputy Director I Chispa
isuri@chispaoc.org
In order to maintain a healthy work-life balance Chispa has adopted a 4 day work week. Our office
is closed on Fridays. Thank you for your patience.
Chispa is building a political home for Latinx Youth in Orange County! Please consider making a
small donation to help us build our casita. Chispa is a project of Tides Advocacy, a 501(04 non-profit
organization.
i
February 4, 2024
Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
ecomment(&santa-ana.mz
Via Entail
RE: SUPPORT Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Council:
Chispa seeks to engage with excluded peoples to uproot systems of oppression and cultivate systems
grounded in community accountability, solidarity, and self-determination for our communities to thrive.
We are a membership based organization for young people advocating for systemic changes across
Orange County(OC). Chispa is committed to supporting Immigrants in OC, including our members and
their families, and Sanctuary City protections in the City of Santa Ana (City).
We write to express our strongest support for the reconvening of the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
(Advisory Group). The Advisory Group is a critical oversight mechanism written into Ordinance NO.
NS -2908, the Sanctuary City Ordinance (Ordinance), to facilitate trust and transparency between the
City and its large Immigrant population.
In January 2017, the Council passed the robust Ordinance with language directing the establishment of a
task force made up of community members to advise the City Council(Council) on policies related to
the Ordinance; including the crafting of policies to protect Immigrants as well as recommending ways to
use and oversee a City fund to help Immigrants fight deportation in court. This Advisory Group has not
met recently and now is the time for it to be reconvened. Immigrants are under attack and it is
necessary for the City to reaffirm its support for the Immigrant community and revive the
Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City and its Immigrant
residents.
The City's status as a Sanctuary City is a direct result of years of advocacy for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant Immigrant communities. The Council met the moment in 2017 when
it passed the ordinance and it is necessary that the Council meet the moment now in 2025. We
stand firm with Councilwoman Jessie Lopez's request for the Advisory Group to reconvene within 30
days to provide updates and recommendations on how the City can better protect its Immigrant
residents.
Sincerely,
Isuri S. Ramos
Interim Executive Director
Santa Ana, CA
CC: vamezcuansanta-ana.org
PBacerran.santa-ana.org
TPhan&santa-ana.org
DPenaloza(dsanta-ana.org
JessieLopez4santa-ana.org
JRyanHernandez&santa-ana.org
bvazduezn santa-ana.org
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Kayla Asato <kayla@ocej.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:01 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject: OCEJ Support Letter for Item 21 and the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: OCEJ Support Letter for Item 21 and the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.pdf
;Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Kayla Asato
she/they pronouns
OCEJ Political Director
1
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
As one of Orange County's most notable Environmental Justice organizations, we focus a lot on the
health and environmental justice discrepancies between immigrant and non-immigrant communities.
Much of our findings show that immigrant communities are more likely zoned into polluted areas, EJ
clusters, and otherwise sacrificed. Because we work with many immigrant communities, neighborhoods,
and community members, we often fight for issues intersecting with environmental justice like housing
justice, immigrant justice, and criminal justice.
As such, I am writing to express our strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing
back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the
ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a
task force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance,
including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a
city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and
with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant
community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the
political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with
Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to
the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role
it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
I(Ayla ArAta Sas,,ayt1,a Guerrero Erica Gohzalez Keila Villeyar
Political Director Executive Director Finance and Logistics Director Water Justice Director
Former Santa Ana Santa Ana Santa Ana Resident and Santa Ana Resident
Resident Businessowner Businesswoner
Jocelyh SahcAeZ Cyalkey Clevoy Maya cl eav
Field Team Youth Director Land and Health Director
Coordinator
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Michael Wauschek <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:02 PM
To: !City Clerk
Subject: Non-agendra items support sanctuary!
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello my name is Michael wauschek I am concerned citizen We need to keep sanctuary city by we standing against Trump as well
showing Huntington Beach maybe ok with for them to unsanctuary this
is what power of the people looks like
Yahoo Mail - Email Simplified
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Rosie Rokui <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:06 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Rosie I'm a life long Santaner@ I support our immigrant community here in Santa Ana and am so proud that
Santa Ana is a sanctuary city
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Rosie Rokui
Life long resident of Santa Ana
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Mai Do <mai@harborinstituteoc.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:06 PM
To: eComment; Amezcua, Valerie; Phan, Thai; Vazquez, Benjamin; Bacerra, Phil; Penaloza,
David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez, Johnathan
Subject: Agenda Item #21
Attachments: 1.4.25 SACC Letter.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
Please find attached a letter regarding Agenda Item 421, signed by several organizations working closely with
local immigrant and refugee communities.
Best,
Mai Nguyen Do
Mai Nguyen Do
They/Them
Research & Policy Manager
Harbor Institute for Immigrant&Economic Justice
HARBOR
INSTITUTE E2mai(cDharborinstituteoc.org
OR1MM'c�«$ECD«oMl'V�10E @ www.harborinstituteoc.org
'° 837 N Ross St,Santa Ana,CA 92701
000
Join our newsletter: Get the latest on immigration and economic policy in OC!
1
February 4, 2025
Santa Ana City Council
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
Re: Agenda Item #21 - Reconvening of Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Dear Mayor Valerie Amezcua and Santa Ana City Council Members,
As always, we are enthusiastic about supporting policies that ensure local resources do not go
towards immigration enforcement. Residents deserve the reassurance of knowing that local
leaders will not allow taxpayer dollars to be co-opted for Trump's mass deportation agenda.
We write to remind the Council of a few important issues that still need attention to ensure that
sanctuary is truly upheld for everyone in Santa Ana:
- While efforts to reaffirm and build on Santa Ana's sanctuary ordinance are highly
encouraged, we do not recommend attaching Santa Ana's Immigration Legal Defense
Fund to the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group. We would like these two matters to be
addressed separately. The Fund has historically suffered gaps in outreach and services
that remain unaddressed, particularly in relation to the City's Southeast Asian refugee
community members.' Seeing as the Fund's current provider was the only bidder for the
next Fund contract, the Fund should first be restructured to 1) increase the scope of
services and 2) expand outreach to communities not currently serviced before advancing
any process that would result in granting the current provider the contract again.
- Our concerns with the Immigration Legal Defense Fund translate into suggestions
regarding the proposed reconvening of and updates to the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group. We hope that the Advisory Group will reflect the diversity of communities
impacted by the threat of deportation- including the local Vietnamese community,
which remains extremely disproportionately unprotected under state law from ICE
transfers-and we are optimistic that the Council will ensure the Advisory Group is
representative of these various perspectives.2
Sincerely,
Harbor Institute for Immigrant & Economic Justice
El Centro Cultural de Mexico
VietRISE
' Brazil,Ben. "Santa Ana approves more funding for deportation defense fund,"Los Ange/es Times, June 17,2021.
https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/entertainment/story/2021-06-17/deportation-defense-fund
2 In 2024,over 90 percent of individuals with immigration detainers in Orange County Sheriff's Department custody who were born
in Vietnam were not protected under California state law from being referred and/or transferred to Immigration and Customs
Enforcement.See Do,Mai N."Safeguarding Which Communities?An Analysis of the Orange County Sheriff's Department's
Continued Collusion with Immigration &Customs Enforcement,"January 2025.https://h orb orinstituteoc.ora/ocsdicetransfers2024/
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Maritza guevara <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:11 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Agenda item 21 sanctuary policy advisory group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Maritza Guevara and I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21
and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to
facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance
with language stating that they would establish a task force made up of community members to advise the City Council on
policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use
and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and
with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its
immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
[Maritza Guevara]
[Tustin,Ca]
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Juliana Flores-Dole <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 3:58 PM
To: eComment
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Juliana Flores and I have lived in Santa Ana for more than 30 years. The community that is Santa
Ana has been a haven for many migrants and I personally know many who have contributed to the beauty that is
Santa Ana. I am commited to supporting immigrants in OC and deeply request Santa Ana to be a Sanctuary for
them.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate
trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task
force made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including
helping craft policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help
immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much
uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and
revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa
Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political,
economic, and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's
request for the advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations
on ways they can better protect residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it
will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Juliana Flores
Santa Ana
i
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: T B <
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:30 PM
To: eComment; Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie;
Hernandez, Johnathan
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Tatyana Basulto. I am a Santa Ana native who attended Santa Ana public school and became a
physician. I am proud of my roots, of my people.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Tatyana Basulto, PA-C
Santanera
1
Arevalo, Evelyn
From: Veronica De Lara <veronica.delara@seiu-usww.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 4:35 PM
To: eComment
Cc: Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin; Christian Ramirez
Subject: Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attachments: SUPPORT LETTER USWW SANTA ANA (1).pdf
;Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana.Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear City Clerk,
See our letter of support for agenda item #21.
Thank you,
Veronica De Lara, MPA
(she, her, ella)
Senior Political Organizer
C: (323)428-6673
SEIU United Service Workers West
www.seiu-usww.org
i
United Service
Workers West
'.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
SEIU United Service Workers West represents over 50,000 janitors, security
SE1U officers, airport and Disneyland service workers, and other property service
workers across California. SEIU-USWW has workers residing in Orange County,
Santa Ana.
Southern CajffornFa I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item
HLMdquWt&S 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community
828W Wusn'ngton enrd, oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and
Los"eres,CA 90015 transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
t2131 784.77,05 p Y Y 9
f213j 284-7725 fax
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating
Orange County office that they would establish a task force made up of community members to advise
1936 W_Chapman Aw.
Orange,Go�92868 the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
[657181 -6647 policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a
f714) 704-9102 fax city fund to help immigrants fight deportation in court. This advisory group has
San[sego offte not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the City
4,001 E Cajun Blvd, of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the
Suite 211 Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust and transparency
San Dego,CA 92105 between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
fb 19}641-3050
{619a 641-3055 fax
Santa Ana's status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based
Nortmern Callfornia struggles fighting for the political, economic, and human rights of our vibrant
Weadquartefs immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the
3411 East 1 2th Street
Suite200 advisory group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and
Ckakrand, Cn1�4a01 recommendations on ways they can better protect residents.
[800] 777-3326
f510J 241-2039fax I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance &
San Jose ofrree- Advisory Board and the role it will take to protect immigrant's rights in Santa Ana.
1010 Ruff Drive
San Jose'CA 951 10 Sincerely,
408 78 7770[ Christian Ramirez
�os] zs0-��o� fax
Policy Director
SacrarnentDoffce SEIU United Service Workers West
1401 21 st Street www.se i u-u sww.g
Suite 310
Sacrarnemo, CA 95911
i91 6J 498-4505
i91 bJ 497-0+806 fax
k
Flores, Dora
From:Michael Wauschek <michaelwauschek@yahoo.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4,
To:!City Clerk
Subject:Non-agendra items support sanctuary!
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Hello my name is Michael wauschek I am concerned citizen We need to keep sanctuary city by we standing against Trump as well
showing Huntington Beach maybe ok with for them to unsanctuary this
is what power of the people looks like
Yahoo Mail - Email Simplified
1
Flores, Dora
From:Ana Charco <acharco@latinohealthaccess.org>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4, 2025 5:11 PM
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Subject: Letter of Support for Agenda Item #21
Attachments:LHA-LOS Agenda Item #21.pdf
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and Honorable City Councilmembers,
Attached is Latino Health Access’s letter of support for Agenda Item #21. Please let us know if any additional
information is needed.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Ana Charco (She/Hers/Ella)
CEA Department | Policy Associate
Latino Health Access
450 W. 4th Street Suite 130
Santa Ana CA 92701
(714) 542-7792 ext. 1552
acharco@latinohealthaccess.org
HIPAA Notification: The information contained in this email may be privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure (Federal Confidentiality Laws 42
CFR, Part 2). The information contained herein is intended to be for the addressee only. If you are not the intended addressee any disclosure, copying, distribution
or use of the content of this message (including attachments) is strictly prohibited. If you believe to have received this electronic message in error, please notify the
sender immediately via email and delete/destroy the original message and all its attachments.
2
Latino Health Access
450 W. Fourth Street, Suite 130
Santa Ana, CA 92701
714-542-7792
www.latinohealthaccess.org
February 4, 2025
Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
ecomment@santa-ana.org
SUBJECT: SUPPORT AGENDA ITEM 21
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
For over 30 years, Latino Health Access has been proudly working alongside community residents to bring
health, equity, and sustainable change to underserved communities through education, services,
consciousness-raising, and civic participation. We strive to provide culturally appropriate health-related services
and programming to address urgent health concerns while also empowering individuals in low-income,
low-opportunity areas to transform their environments and create positive changes in their homes and
communities. Therefore, we urge you to support Agenda Item 21 and bring back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In 2017, the City Council unanimously passed Ordinance No. NS-2908, which mandates policies that prohibit
the use of city resources for immigration enforcement, protect sensitive information, prevent biased-based
policing, and establish a task force composed of community members to advise the City Council on policies
related to the ordinance. This task force, known as the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, was created to ensure
strong protections for immigrant residents by advising the city on sanctuary policies and immigrant protections,
as well as overseeing the Santa Ana Deportation Defense Fund, which provides legal representation for
immigrants facing deportation.
However, it has come to our attention that the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group has not convened since 2020.
Furthermore, no recent updates have been provided by the City Manager or designee to the City Council
regarding the Advisory Group's activities or the overall status of Santa Ana’s sanctuary city initiatives. This lack
of engagement and accountability poses potential risks to the continuity and effectiveness of the City’s
immigrant protection measures. Given the current uncertainty regarding immigration policy threatening to
deport and disrupt mixed immigration status families, it is imperative for the City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its
support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to help facilitate trust
and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents. Ultimately, the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group plays a vital role in upholding Santa Ana’s sanctuary city designation and ensuring that
immigrant residents are protected and welcomed.
Therefore, we stand with Councilmember Lopez’s request with Agenda Item #21, which will direct the City
Manager to complete the following:
1. Reconvene the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group within the next 30 days and provide a written update
to the City Council within this same time frame; and
__________________________________________________________________________
PREVENTION EDUCATION ACTION
Docusign Envelope ID: 8D564A80-EFB5-405F-B749-3605862BD048
Latino Health Access
450 W. Fourth Street, Suite 130
Santa Ana, CA 92701
714-542-7792
www.latinohealthaccess.org
2. Provide ongoing written updates, at least once every 30 days, relating to activities undertaken by the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group and actions taken by the City Manager or their designee in response to
recommendations by the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group.
It is imperative that we stand behind the immigrant families that call this city home.
Sincerely,
America Bracho, CEO
Latino Health Access
__________________________________________________________________________
PREVENTION EDUCATION ACTION
Docusign Envelope ID: 8D564A80-EFB5-405F-B749-3605862BD048
Flores, Dora
From:Christian Lawrenz <chris.lawrenz12@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4,
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Chris Lawrenz, and I am writing to urge you to reinstate the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group by
moving forward with Agenda Item 21. As the Chair of the Immigrant Justice Working Group for Orange
County DSA, I am deeply committed to protecting the rights and dignity of immigrants in Santa Ana. My
grandparents came to this country for economic opportunities and a better life for my mother and her siblings.
While they were fortunate to have the ability to enter the country through legal means and obtain citizenship,
that is not realistic for many people in our current day legal/political landscape. The only thing differentiating
those deemed "illegal" and "legal" is paperwork. Ultimately, immigrants are human beings and deserve to live a
dignified life without the fear of deportation, detention, or exploitation.
In 2017, the City Council passed a strong Sanctuary Ordinance, which included a provision to create a
community-led advisory group. This body was designed to guide city policies affecting immigrants and oversee
a city fund to assist residents in deportation proceedings. Unfortunately, the advisory group has not met for
some time. Given the current climate of uncertainty, now is the time for the City of Santa Ana to take decisive
action and renew its commitment to immigrant rights by reconvening this group.
Santa Ana has long been a leader in standing up for immigrant communities, and its sanctuary status reflects the
tireless advocacy of residents. Reviving the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group would strengthen transparency,
rebuild trust, and ensure that immigrant voices are at the center of policymaking. I strongly support
Councilwoman Lopez's request that the advisory group reconvene within 30 days to provide recommendations
on how the city can better serve and protect its residents.
I appreciate your time and leadership on this critical issue. I look forward to seeing the reimplementation of the
Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group and its positive impact on our community.
Best,
Chris Lawrenz
OC-DSA, Chair of the Immigrant Justice Working Group
City of La Palma
3
Flores, Dora
From:Rebecca Pasillas <pasillas.rebecca@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Subject:Item 21 Comment
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good evening mayor and council members,
My name is Rebecca pasillas, Santa Ana resident and daughter of Mexican immigrants. I come here tonight in
support of agenda item 21. Reconvening the sanctuary policy advisory group would effectively strengthen the
city’s protection of our neighbors. We are yet again living through an administration that seeks to dehumanize,
harm and incite fear in our communities. Our city must pass policy that protects our residents regardless of
status so we can all continue living in this city with dignity and peace of mind. The policy advisory group
would be able to focus and collaborate on these protections efficiently if reconvened. Absorbing these policies
into other committees would be impractical and creates room for error at a delicate time. Being a first
generation Latina, I felt my parent’s sacrifice throughout my upbringing and instilled in me respect and
empathy for the people in my community. I now urge the empathy of this council to respect the sacrifices of
those like my parents and reconvene this policy group and defend sanctuary in our beautiful city.
Thank you,
Rebecca Pasillas
4
Flores, Dora
From:Joe Saladino <josephmsaladino@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, February
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group Public Comment
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Joseph Saladino and I’m a resident of Santa Ana Ward 5. I am writing to express my strong support for moving
forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism
written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana.
Sincerely,
Joseph Saladino
Santa Ana Resident, Ward 5
5
Flores, Dora
From:Felicity <felicitynf@aol.com>
Sent:Tuesday, 43 PM
To:eComment
Cc:Amezcua, Valerie; Bacerra, Phil; Phan, Thai; Penaloza, David; Lopez, Jessie; Hernandez,
Johnathan; Vazquez, Benjamin
Subject:City Council Meeting on February 4, 202 - Agenda Item 21: Sanctuary Policy Advisory
Group
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Dear Mayor Amezcua and City Councilmembers,
My name is Felicity Figueroa and I am the chair of the Orange County Equality Coalition, a countywide organization that
fights for the rights of our LGBTQIA+ community members, many of whom are immigrants and many of whom live in
Santa Ana.
I am writing to express my strong support for moving forward with Agenda Item 21 and bringing back the Sanctuary Policy
Advisory Group, a community oversight mechanism written within the ordinance to facilitate trust and transparency
between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
In January 2017, the Council passed a robust Ordinance with language stating that they would establish a task force
made up of community members to advise the City Council on policies related to the ordinance, including helping craft
policies to protect immigrants as well as recommend ways to use and oversee a city fund to help immigrants fight
deportation in court. This advisory group has not met for some time and with so much uncertainty, now is the time for the
City of Santa Ana to reaffirm its support for the immigrant community and revive the Sanctuary Policy Advisory Group to
help facilitate trust and transparency between the City of Santa Ana and its immigrant residents.
Santa Ana’s status as a sanctuary city builds on years of community-based struggles fighting for the political, economic,
and human rights of our vibrant immigrant communities. I stand firm with Councilwoman Lopez's request for the advisory
group to reconvene within 30 days to provide updates to the city and recommendations on ways they can better protect
residents.
I look forward to seeing the re-implementation of the Sanctuary Ordinance & Advisory Board and the role it will take to
protect immigrant’s rights in Santa Ana, including those who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Sincerely,
Felicity Figueroa
Chair
Orange County Equality Coalition
CC: vamezcua@santa-ana.org
PBacerra@santa-ana.org
TPhan@santa-ana.org
DPenaloza@santa-ana.org
JessieLopez@santa-ana.org
JRyanHernandez@santa-ana.org
bvazquez@santa-ana.org
6
Flores, Dora
From:Faby Jacome <faby@ocjusticefund.org>
Sent:Tuesday, February 4, 2025 7:35 PM
To:eComment
Subject:02/04/2024 - Item 21
Attention: This email originated from outside of City of Santa Ana. Use caution when opening attachments or links.
Good evening council,
My name is Faby Jacome, and I am the Executive Director of the Orange County Justice Fund. I want to begin by
expressing my sincere gratitude to members of this council for your ongoing support of local organizations that are doing
on-the-ground work with our community. Specially Mayor Pro-Tem Vasquez, Councilmember Hernandez,
Councilmember Lopez, and Councilmember Thai Pham. Your commitment to uplifting and protecting our most
vulnerable residents is deeply appreciated.
I am here tonight to voice our strong support for Item 21, This committee would advise the city on immigrant protections
and sanctuary city policies. As an organization that works directly with impacted individuals and families, we understand
how critical it is to ensure that accurate, accessible information reaches those who need it most. This advisory group
presents an opportunity to strengthen protections and empower immigrant communities with the knowledge they need to
navigate an often hostile and complex system.
We do, however, have one key request: that the individuals selected for this advisory committee truly reflect the full
diversity of our community. Immigration issues are often framed as solely affecting Latino communities, but we
know—through both data and lived experiences—that Black and Asian immigrant communities are also
disproportionately targeted by enforcement and exclusionary policies. If this advisory group is to be effective, it must be
inclusive and representative of all impacted communities.
Transparency and equity must be at the core of this process. We are grateful to this council for taking this step toward a
more just and inclusive city, and we urge you to ensure that this advisory body is built in a way that uplifts all voices,
particularly those most impacted by our immigration system.
Thank you for your time and your commitment to this important issue.
Sincerely,
Faby Jacome
Faby Jacome | Executive Director
Orange County Justice Fund
Direct Dial: (714) 733-7775
Faby@ocjusticefund.org
Physical Address:
837 N Ross Street, Suite 3, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Mailing Address:
PO Box 10113 Santa Ana, CA 92711
The linked image cannot be
displayed. The file may have been
moved, renamed, or deleted.
Verify that the link points to the
correct file and location.
7
Donate at Orange County Justice Fund
8