Key West: The people of Florida that put end to the relationship between ICE and local police
A large number of those attending the vote wore t-shirts with the legend: Migrants keep this island alive
Amid rising immigration tensions in Florida, the city of Key West became an example of community unity by deciding to cut ties with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The measure, approved by a majority of the City Commission, represents an important change in the way that some local communities are facing state and federal immigration policies. This decision has been celebrated by activists and human rights advocates who see it as an act of protection for the migrant population.
A rupture with consequences
As reported by WLRN, the June 30, 2025 vote resulted in a resounding 6-1 in favor of repealing the 287(g) agreement, a pact that allowed local police to act in collaboration with ICE in the detention of migrants.
During the two-hour session, attendees wore t-shirts with the legend: "Migrants keep this island alive," demonstrating the community unity that exists in Key West.
By invalidating this agreement, this town becomes the first city in Florida to formally take this step, directly challenging policies promoted by the state government.
ICE Out of Key West
In addition to terminating the current agreement, the decision also prohibits the signing of similar agreements in the future. Commissioner Sam Kaufman, one of the sponsors of the motion, expressed that the priority is to protect the trust between the community and local authorities.
This measure was adopted despite the warning from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who threatened legal action and even the removal of the local officials involved, as reported by Florida Politics.
In this context, Key West not only challenges a state policy that prohibits so-called "sanctuary cities," but also proposes an alternative model focused on protection and community dialogue, even in the face of political pressure.
A recent case: Montebello Protects Its Migrant Community
In another show of concrete support for the migrant community, the city of Montebello, in Los Angeles County, approved, on June 30, 2025, during a special council session, a $100,000 fund to assist families affected by ICE operations.
Local authorities defined this resource as part of the “Montebello Humanitarian Services Program,” which will offer confidential case management, workshops on legal rights, and direct assistance to residents impacted by the raids.