Key West Community in Support of Documented Immigrants
City Commissioner Kaufman Calls for special commission meeting to examine the impacts increased immigration enforcement actions on the Key West community and the City’s bottom line.
As tensions reach a boiling point over increased immigration enforcement actions across the United States, the Island City is calling on the close-knit community to stand with legal, documented immigrants that have been come the life-blood of the island’s service economy.
In an emailed statement sent to Above the Fold, community organizer Heather Slivko-Bathurst issued the following statement on behalf of business owners, religious leaders and public officials.
“In response to recent immigration enforcement actions in Key West, a broad coalition of local business owners, clergy, residents, and public officials have come together in a unified call for transparency, compassion, and adherence to the rule of law,” wrote Slivko-Bathurst. “Our community stands in support of documented immigrants who contribute daily to the cultural and economic fabric of our island.”
The community activist said the group was deeply concerned by reports from business owners and religious leaders that individuals with documented legal status—including green card holders and those with recognized work authorizations—have been detained or removed from our community.
“These actions have instilled fear among families, deterred residents from attending religious services, shopping for basic necessities, and even sending their children to school,” she wrote.
Local churches have responded with direct outreach and food deliveries, while employers are reporting disruptions to their workforce and expressing grave concern for the safety and well-being of their employees.
“We reaffirm our deep appreciation for the Key West Police Department (KWPD), which has consistently demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and dedication to every corner of our diverse community,” she continued. “We continue to believe in the guiding philosophy of "One Human Family"—a core value that defines the spirit of Key West.”
Commissioner Sam Kaufman — who appointed Slivko-Bathurst to the Key West Bight Board — is calling for a special session of the City Commission to address these serious, recent developments.
Among the key concerns to be discussed at the yet to be scheduled meeting are:
• How was the 287(g) Task Force Memorandum of Agreement — which allows local law enforcement to enforce ICE actions on behalf of DHS — implemented without
formal review or approval by the City Commission? The memorandum allows
• What are the budgetary impacts of this program on city resources, and how might the City seek reimbursement for unauthorized expenditures?
• How many legal residents have been detained under this enforcement activity?
• How many of those detained have criminal records, and what are the broader
community impacts?
Key West has always been a welcoming community. Our strength lies in our diversity, and our resilience comes from our commitment to unity, dignity, and justice for all.
We invite residents, business owners, and concerned citizens to add their names to thisstatement of solidarity. Together, we will uphold the principles of due process, human dignity, and the rule of law.
One Human Family. One Unified Voice. One Key West.
For more information or to join this community statement, please contact Heather Slivko-Bathurst at KeyWestis25@gmail.com.