In a move with potential implications for both residents and local businesses, the Honolulu City Council is pushing for the affirmation of constitutional rights for all individuals within the city and county of Honolulu. As reported by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, Resolution 301, introduced by Council members Matt Weyer and Tyler Dos Santos-Tam, seeks to ensure that the city administration upholds these rights irrespective of citizenship or immigration status.
The resolution's push for due process and equal protection comes at a time when federal immigration enforcement is reportedly increasing its activities. The Honolulu Star-Advertiser notes that the resolution does not explicitly name U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or its activities, but the context suggests a response to their actions. The city administration continues to assert that it already upholds the rights of all residents, and that the Honolulu Police Department has not assisted ICE operations.
The resolution’s intent is to create trust between the local government and all Oahu residents and reaffirm its commitment to protecting the rule of law. The resolution references the U.S. Constitution and its Bill of Rights. It states that these documents guarantee fundamental rights to all persons regardless of citizenship or immigration status. The Council requested that the Mayor review all current and future agreements to ensure the constitutional rights of all residents are protected.
