Sanctuary City

Overview

A sanctuary city is a local jurisdiction that limits its cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. These policies generally focus on separating local public services—such as policing, schools, and health care—from federal immigration activities. Sanctuary policies vary, but they share the goal of encouraging residents, regardless of immigration status, to access essential services and engage with local institutions without fear of deportation.

Core Characteristics

1. Limited Cooperation with Federal Authorities

Local agencies may decline to hold individuals solely for immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant.

2. Access to Local Services

Policies ensure that residents can use schools, health services, or police assistance without immigration screening.

3. Local Authority Over Policing

Sanctuary jurisdictions maintain control over the role of local police in federal immigration matters.

4. Variation in Policy Design

Sanctuary policies differ widely—ordinances, executive orders, police directives, or city practices.

5. Public Trust Framework

The rationale is to strengthen community-police relationships and public safety by reducing fear among immigrant residents.

How It Functions in Practice

Sanctuary policies do not grant lawful status or prevent federal enforcement; they simply limit local involvement. Federal authorities can still operate independently. Local governments often adopt these policies to encourage reporting of crimes, improve public health access, or maintain community stability.

Common Misunderstandings

“Sanctuary cities harbor criminals.”

Policies generally apply to civil immigration matters and do not block criminal investigations.

“Sanctuary cities prevent federal enforcement.”

Federal agencies still retain full authority; local agencies are not required to assist.

“Sanctuary status changes immigration law.”

Immigration law remains federal; sanctuary status is a local policy decision.

The Term in Public Discourse

Often at the center of debates about immigration, local authority, public safety, and federalism. The term is used inconsistently—sometimes referring to formal policies, other times to general attitudes.

Why This Term Matters for Civic Understanding

Understanding sanctuary cities clarifies the difference between federal and local authority, the purpose of limiting cooperation, and how local policies shape community trust and safety.

Neutrality Note

This definition describes sanctuary cities as a legal and governance concept, not as an endorsement of any policy position or jurisdiction.