Montgomery County Honors Hispanic Heritage Amid Immigration Concerns

Montgomery County officials celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month with proclamations recognizing the contributions of Hispanic communities. The observance, which runs from September 15 to October 15, aims to highlight cultural influences amid growing immigration tensions across the United States.

During the event, Nelly Jimenez-Arevalo, the county’s Director of Immigrant Affairs, underscored the importance of celebration even in challenging times. She showcased artwork by Fatima Oleo, a Mexican American illustrator, emphasizing the resilience and creativity of the Hispanic community. “Even when things are very hard to go through right now, there’s always a reason to celebrate,” Jimenez-Arevalo stated.

National Hispanic Heritage Month originated in the late 1960s as a weeklong celebration initiated by President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded the observance to a full month. Jimenez-Arevalo remarked, “Hispanic Heritage Month is more than symbols. It’s a living legacy of resiliency, survival, passion, and compassion.”

Jimenez-Arevalo immigrated to the U.S. nearly 30 years ago from Venezuela. Before taking on her current role, she served as executive director of ACLAMO, a social services agency in Norristown that supports educational and health initiatives for county residents. This year, Jimenez-Arevalo transitioned to focus on advocacy for immigrants in Montgomery County, which, according to the July 2024 Census, has an estimated population of 868,742, with about 10.8 percent of residents born outside the United States.

Concerns About Immigration Enforcement

The celebration coincides with heightened scrutiny surrounding immigration enforcement in the area. Recently, communities in and around Norristown have experienced an increased presence of federal immigration agents, raising anxiety among local residents. Jimenez-Arevalo highlighted the impact of these operations, stating, “As we acknowledge Hispanic Heritage Month today, I want to also acknowledge the hundreds of immigrant families and children who are being treated with unimaginable cruelty.”

The topic of immigration enforcement was notably addressed during a graduation ceremony at Norristown Area High School. The valedictorian and salutatorian voiced concerns about their peers living in fear of family separation due to increased federal activity. “These are the tears of our children that live daily in fear of the unknown,” Jimenez-Arevalo remarked.

In mid-July, an immigration enforcement operation at a supermarket in West Norriton Township led to the detention of fourteen undocumented immigrants. Witnesses reported dozens of agents, clad in masks and military gear, swarming the parking lot. This incident prompted community leaders and advocates to question the legality and ethics of the operation, particularly regarding the alleged failure to present judicial warrants.

According to a spokesperson for U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE), agents conducted a federal court-authorized search during the operation. Montgomery County’s Vice Chairwoman, Jamila Winder, condemned the actions, stating, “They were terrorizing a particular community, and they’re targeting Black and brown immigrants.”

Diverse Perspectives on Immigration Policy

The ongoing debate over immigration enforcement has divided local officials. Montgomery County Commissioner Tom DiBello expressed his support for law enforcement but cautioned against inflammatory rhetoric. “I don’t think we should be talking about law enforcement agencies terrorizing because that’s only adding onto the rhetoric,” he said.

Residents have voiced varying opinions about the role of local government in immigration matters. One West Norriton resident, Ed Moye, argued for a focus on public safety, stating, “This is not a Hispanic thing. This is about illegal criminals that ICE is trying to remove from our country.” Another resident, Michelle Engarto, questioned the county’s spending priorities, suggesting that legal residents should not bear the financial burden of policies that support undocumented immigrants.

In contrast, Montgomery County Chairman Neil Makhija defended his stance against local law enforcement involvement in federal immigration actions. He emphasized that resources would better serve the community by supporting those who contribute positively. “If I have any say over that, we’re not going to be spending money removing people in our community,” Makhija asserted.

Community leaders urged for a balanced approach that respects the rights of all residents. Winder called for an end to divisive narratives, stating, “Let’s stop the propaganda. Let’s respect our friends and neighbors.” She emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of immigrants who are working hard to build better lives.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

At the municipal level, various towns, including Ambler and Norristown, have implemented immigration-related protocols in response to community concerns. Montgomery County has also issued policies regarding employee communication practices with federal agents. Advocates continue to call for more stringent measures to protect undocumented immigrants.

Makhija reinforced the importance of upholding due process in immigration matters. He stated, “We comply with federal law enforcement if they have a signed warrant from a judge,” underscoring the need for legal protocols in detaining individuals.

As National Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds, Jimenez-Arevalo aims to provide reassurance to the immigrant community. She declared, “Like many Latinos that have been living and working these lands for generations: we are here and we will be here for generations to come because this country, the United States of America, is our country, too.”