Public Safety

Municipal Action for Immigrant Integration

Promoting Individual Rights and Safety

Amidst the national debate surrounding the role of local law enforcement in immigration enforcement, local and federal officials alike need to remember the important role public safety personnel play in immigrant integration and outreach.  Police often provide one of the first lines of response in interacting with and informing new immigrants about the rights and responsibilities associated with living in American cities. 

From a public safety perspective, this police-immigrant relationship is essential for effective community policing. Police need to know what is happening within the entire community, including the immigrant population.  Likewise, public safety outreach is crucial for immigrants accustomed to different cultures and police expectations.

Unfortunately, miscommunication and distrust too often strain these police-immigrant relationships and prohibit effective information exchange.  To overcome these barriers, the Boulder Police Department has implemented innovative strategies to reach out and expand public safety to its immigrant populations.

Last Updated on Thursday, 12 July 2012 06:17