OPINION: Albuquerque needs balanced approach to immigration

As a nation founded on the principles of law, opportunity and equal justice, the United States must uphold public safety while pursuing compassionate and effective immigration reform. In Albuquerque, like many American cities, we are faced with the dual realities of protecting our communities from criminal threats and recognizing the hard work and contributions of immigrants who seek a better life through lawful means. As a city councilor serving the people of Albuquerque, my first and foremost responsibility is to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents — every family, every child and every taxpayer who calls this city home.

Supporting federal collaboration in identifying and removing illegal immigrants who have decided to commit serious crimes and, through their actions, have proven that they pose a demonstrable threat to the safety of our residents, is our duty. Taxpaying citizens deserve to live in secure neighborhoods, free from the fear of violent offenders who exploit weaknesses in the current system. When individuals break not only immigration laws but criminal laws — such as committing violent crimes, drug trafficking or exploitation — the federal government has a duty to intervene. Local and federal agencies working together ensures that dangerous individuals are removed from our communities swiftly and efficiently.

That said, let me be equally clear: Not all undocumented immigrants are criminals, and painting them with the same broad brush is both inaccurate and unjust. They are individuals and families working hard, contributing to the economy and following the laws to the best of their ability. Many have lived here for years, pay taxes and strengthen the fabric of our society. The current legal pathway to citizenship is outdated, complex and inaccessible for many. The system, in many cases, penalizes the very people we should be encouraging to stay, integrate and contribute. But that law must be changed through real reform, not ignored.

So let me be perfectly clear about this, it is not about choosing one side over the other. Public safety and immigration reform are not mutually exclusive. We can — and must — remove dangerous individuals from our streets and create a lawful, just process for those seeking a better life in America. We can keep our communities safe and honor the contributions of those who are here to build better lives. We can protect our neighborhoods and provide a fair path forward for those who seek to be part of the American story.

This balanced approach not only protects our citizens — it upholds the best values of our nation. Albuquerque will not become a sanctuary for criminals, but it will remain a city of opportunity and progress for those who respect the laws and strive to be part of the community.