Words Matter
A plain-language glossary for the words that shape public life.
Political Systems & Ideologies
Government structures and political philosophies that shape how power is distributed, who makes decisions, and how authority is justified. These terms are often used loosely. This section pins down their actual meanings and explains how they function in practice.
Use of Force
Refers to the actions officers may take to gain control of a situation, ranging from verbal commands to deadly force. Laws and policies require that force be reasonable, necessary, and proportional, and agencies review incidents for compliance with constitutional and departmental standards.
Sanctuary City
A local jurisdiction that limits its cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to encourage community trust and access to local services. Sanctuary policies vary but generally separate local institutions from federal immigration activities.
Deportation
The legal process in which a government removes a non-citizen for violating immigration laws. Deportation is involuntary, carried out by the state, and follows a formal legal process. It differs from voluntary return and does not imply criminal conviction.