The Orange County Board of Supervisors has reaffirmed its commitment to providing sanctuary to immigrants, despite threats from the federal government to withhold funding. The county has been a sanctuary jurisdiction since 2017, and its leaders have vowed to continue protecting the rights of undocumented immigrants. The decision comes after the Trump administration announced plans to cut funding to sanctuary cities and counties. Orange County supervisors argue that providing sanctuary is a matter of public safety and that it helps to build trust between law enforcement and the community. They also point out that the county has a long history of welcoming immigrants and that it is a vital part of the local economy. The county’s sanctuary policy prohibits law enforcement from inquiring about a person’s immigration status or detaining them solely based on their immigration status. This policy has been praised by immigrant rights groups, who argue that it helps to protect vulnerable communities from deportation and separation from their families. However, the policy has also been criticized by some who argue that it puts public safety at risk by allowing undocumented immigrants to remain in the country. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has stated that it will continue to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, but only in cases where an individual has been convicted of a serious crime. The county’s decision to remain a sanctuary jurisdiction has been supported by local businesses and community groups, who argue that it is essential for the local economy and for promoting diversity and inclusion. The Trump administration has threatened to cut funding to sanctuary cities and counties, but Orange County supervisors argue that this would be unconstitutional and that they will fight any attempts to withhold funding. The county has also announced plans to provide additional resources and support to immigrant communities, including legal aid and language classes. This move has been welcomed by immigrant rights groups, who argue that it will help to promote integration and inclusion. The debate over sanctuary cities and counties is ongoing, with some arguing that they are essential for promoting public safety and others arguing that they put national security at risk. Despite the controversy, Orange County remains committed to providing sanctuary to immigrants and to promoting diversity and inclusion. The county’s leaders argue that this is a matter of moral obligation and that it is essential for building a fair and just society. The decision has been praised by human rights groups, who argue that it sets an important precedent for other cities and counties to follow. The county’s commitment to providing sanctuary has also been recognized by international organizations, who argue that it is a model for promoting human rights and dignity.