Worcester Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Inclusion Amid Community Concerns Over Immigration Policies

Worcester City Manager stops by the Talk of the Commonwealth morning show to discuss a joint statement he and the Mayor released. “We want to emphatically state that Worcester is and will always remain a welcoming and inclusive city. There will be absolutely no tolerance of hate or violence toward any member of our community, regardless of their immigration status or identity. The municipality will never target individuals based on their immigration status.” Batista says there is a level of anxiety in the community and that City Councilors have received calls over just what is meant by “mass deportation.” Residents have expressed concerns to City Hall over safety. The statement is meant to provide a sense of security to residents. Batista says it is not the role of the municipality to enforce something that is beyond their capability. He said it is not the role of the police department and that Worcester has a force that cares for its residents. He said if someone commits a crime they will be arrested.