A letter circulating in Lincoln County, Oregon, has sparked outrage and condemnation from local authorities and immigrant rights advocates. The letter, which was allegedly sent by the sheriff’s office, encourages community members to track and report people of color who may be undocumented immigrants.
However, the sheriff’s office has since issued a statement denouncing the letter as “offensive and racist” and advising residents against following its instructions. Sheriff Curtis Landers stated that targeting individuals based on their demographic or perceived immigration status erodes trust and undermines the sense of safety and inclusion in the community.
The FBI has also confirmed receiving reports about the letters, which have been described as part of a larger anti-immigrant campaign. Oregon’s attorney general, Ellen Rosenblum, condemned the letter, saying that attempts to intimidate communities and their leaders through racist campaigns are “unacceptable” in the state.
President-elect Donald Trump’s administration has vowed to reduce immigration numbers and increase deportations, which has raised concerns among immigrant rights advocates. The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement and community trust, particularly in rural areas like Lincoln County.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/22/us/oregon-anti-immigrant-letter-investigation.html