Utah has long been a state that values opportunity, family and community. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has played a major role in shaping those values, emphasizing compassion, family unity and support for those seeking a better life. These principles are part of why so many hardworking immigrant families come to Utah; they want to contribute, improve their lives and pursue the American Dream.
However, recent developments involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) across the United States are now affecting our communities here at home. Families — both U.S. citizens and immigrants — are increasingly vulnerable, living in fear of harassment and profiling. ICE’s current approach has become “detain first, ask questions later,” creating instability and fear in neighborhoods that have long been peaceful and productive.
In Salt Lake County, unknown individuals wearing masks have intimidated immigrant communities. Students are going to school afraid they may not see their parents when they return home. Families are being separated. Children and parents are being harassed. This is not the Utah we know.
It is troubling that many Utah Republicans speak about “family values” while supporting policies that harm the most vulnerable families in our state: low-income immigrant families who are here to work, contribute and build a better future. According to a Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics Poll, 64% of Utah Republicans approved of the deportation methods being used by federal agents, including 41% who strongly approved.
Rep. Trevor Lee is now sponsoring HB88, a proposal that would prevent undocumented immigrants in Utah from accessing a wide range of publicly funded assistance programs. He is also sponsoring HB287, which would eliminate Utah’s Driver Privilege Card program, a program designed for individuals who cannot obtain a traditional driver’s license but still need to drive to work, school and other essential activities. This includes undocumented immigrants, individuals with work permits and students on visas who are contributing to Utah’s economy.
These policies inflict pain and suffering on vulnerable families who deserve dignity, safety and the chance to thrive.
Ending the Driver Privilege Card program would make our communities less safe, not more. Without a legal way to obtain identification or insurance, more drivers would be forced into the shadows, increasing risks for everyone on the road.
The NAACP denounces both the actions of ICE and Rep. Trevor Lee’s efforts to dismantle the Driver Privilege Card program. These proposals do not reflect Utah’s values, nor do they strengthen our communities. They create fear, instability and unnecessary hardship for families who are simply trying to live, work and contribute.
All Utahns should ask: What is the intent of these proposals and what will their impact be on our neighborhoods and communities? The impact is clear. These policies inflict pain and suffering on vulnerable families who deserve dignity, safety and the chance to thrive.
Families are living in fear. Utah can do better.