The Urban League of Greater Philadelphia Statement on Immigration Enforcement, Community Safety, and Federal Accountability

The Urban League of Greater Philadelphia (ULGP) affirms the dignity, safety, and civil rights of all people. Across the Greater Philadelphia region and throughout the nation, federal immigration enforcement actions have created fear, instability, and profound harm in communities that are already navigating economic and social inequities. 

Immigration enforcement does not exist in isolation. Its impacts extend beyond individuals to families, workplaces, schools, and entire neighborhoods. When enforcement practices lack transparency, accountability, or constitutional safeguards, they erode trust, deepen trauma, and undermine community safety for everyone. 

At this moment, Congress is negotiating the federal budget, decisions that may extend or increase funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Because ICE is a federal agency, these decisions are made at the national level and directly shape how enforcement operates in local communities. ULGP believes that any federal funding affecting human lives must be evaluated through a lens of equity, constitutional rights, and public safety. 

We encourage community members who have been affected by immigration enforcement directly or indirectly, to engage with their U.S. Senators and Members of Congress. Congressional leaders and theiroffices have a formal responsibility to provide constituent assistance in matters involving federal agencies, including ICE. Sharing lived experiences and requesting support is a lawful, non-partisan way for residents to seek answers, accountability, and clarity. 

At the same time, we urge residents to remain informed and prepared. Knowing your rights and understanding available support systems can help protect individuals and families during moments of uncertainty. 

Know Your Rights & Advocacy Resources 

• ACLU – Know Your Rights Provides clear, accurate information about constitutional rights during interactions with ICE or law enforcement, including guidance for home, workplace, and public encounters. https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights 

• HIAS Pennsylvania – Become an Advocate for Immigration Rights Offers education, advocacy tools, and lawful civic engagement opportunities focused on protecting immigrant and refugee communities. https://hiaspa.org/take-action 

Contacting Federal Representatives 

Immigration enforcement is governed at the federal level. U.S. Senators and Members of Congress can submit inquiries to ICE or the Department of Homeland Security, request information on behalf of constituents, and raise concerns during budget negotiations. 

• Find and Contact Your U.S. Senator or Congress member Use the official zip-code lookup tool to identify your federal representatives. https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member 

When contacting an office, residents may request assistance with a federal agency matter, including immigration enforcement concerns. 

Local Update: Community Safety in Philadelphia 

Philadelphia has taken steps at the municipal level to prioritize resident safety, civil rights, and clear boundaries between local services and federal immigration enforcement. City Councilmembers Kendra Brooksand Rue Landau have advanced policy efforts focused on protecting residents and reinforcing public safety without fear or discrimination. These local actions underscore the importance of safeguarding community trust while respecting constitutional rights. 

 

Local Legal & Community Support – Greater Philadelphia 

Residents seeking legal guidance, education, or social support may contact the following verified organizations: 

• Pennsylvania Immigration Resource Center (PIRC) – Legal representation and education for individuals facing detention or removal. https://www.pirclaw.org 

• Nationalities Service Center (NSC) – Immigration legal services, including removal defense and family-based support. https://nscphila.org 

• HIAS Pennsylvania – Legal and social services for immigrants and refugees. https://hiaspa.org 

• Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services (CSS) – Immigration legal assistance through the CSS Helpline. https://cssphiladelphia.org/immigration-legal-services 

Federal ICE Contact Information 

• ICE Detention, Reporting & Information Line (DRIL): 1-888-351-4024 

• ICE Philadelphia Field Office: Philadelphia.Outreach@ice.dhs.gov | (215) 656-7164 

• Federal Detention Center (FDC) Philadelphia Detainee Information: (215) 521-4000 

ULGP remains committed to providing accurate information, trusted resources, and principled leadership during moments that test our collective values. We believe safety is built through dignity, justice, and accountability, not fear. 

We stand with our community and will continue working toward a Greater Philadelphia where every person can live, work, and raise their family without intimidation or harm.