Sanctuary City Policy
facilities, programs and services, regardless of immigration status.
What is a Sanctuary City?
In a sanctuary city, all community members can access City facilities, programs, and services without being asked about their immigration status.
In New Westminster, the municipal government is responsible for areas such as fire protection, libraries, community centres, parks, recreation, and parking.
Some people in New Westminster may be afraid of being stopped and deported by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and may not use City services in case someone asks about their immigration status. The Sanctuary City policy tells everyone they are welcome to join in everything offered by the City of New Westminster without being questioned about immigration status by City staff.
What does the Sanctuary City Policy apply to?
The Sanctuary City Policy applies to all facilities, programs, and services provided by the City of New Westminster.
It does not apply directly to the New Westminster Police Department. They have their own guidelines in support of the objectives of this policy, approved by the Police Board.
who does it apply to?
Our region is home to many immigrants and refugees. This is true in New Westminster too. Some people are undocumented migrants.
There are various reasons why people are undocumented. Work permits for temporary foreign workers may expire. Marital breakdown can leave a person without sponsorship. Students may overstay their study or work permits. People may lose their status or have their refugee claims denied. Some people may have been victims of human traffickers. These are just a few examples of what can happen.
How does it affect me?
The policy does not affect New Westminster residents with recognized immigration and citizenship status. The policy simply means that everyone, no matter what their immigration status, can use City facilities, programs and services without City staff asking questions about their status.
Fees and processes apply to all participants. There are no financial supports for this policy. All residents can apply to for the Parks & Recreation Financial Assistance Program and will not be asked for immigration status if they do. The City is committed to reducing barriers to participation.
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