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In a 5-2 vote yesterday, Pasadena's City Council approved a resolution lending support to a call for immigration reform on a national level and to delay the implementation of Arizona's SB 1070 until the issue is handled by the courts, reports the Star-News.
While some cities, like Los Angeles, have voted to restrict business dealings with the neighboring state, Pasadena's leaders "opted to take a more moderate stance" with their resolution, proposed by Councilman Victor Gordo. Gordo says:
"We should not remain silent when a law anywhere in the United States has the effect of stigmatizing any Americans. In this case, Senate Bill 1070 has the effect of stigmatizing American Latinos and I think that's wrong."
While some residents agree with Gordo and the majority of the council, some believe the law is meddlesome. Said resident Edna Jones of the Arizona bill:
"With all the problems Pasadena has, what gives it the right to interfere in another state's business. I applaud (Arizona) Gov. Jan Brewer in signing this law against illegal immigrants ... entering her state. As governor, she has the duty to protect the citizens."
Many in Pasadena, including members of the City Council believe a boycott of Arizona would not be a good idea. Councilwoman Jacque Robinson observed: "At the end of the day, it would not be good for everyday employees and residents in the state of Arizona, and those are the individuals that we're trying to support through our actions."
