Published: May 19, 2010
Updated: 4:52 p.m.

Costa Mesa residents urged to "evacuate the city"

By ELLYN PAK
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
Costa Mesa residents urged to "evacuate the city"

35 minutes ago

More immigrant rights' organizations are publicly condemning Costa Mesa's self-designation as a "Rule of Law City," with one group calling on residents to evacuate the city.

Zeke Hernandez, president of the Santa Ana League of United Latin American Citizens Council #147, said the resolution that city leaders approved Tuesday sends a message that its Latino immigrant population is not welcome in the city.

"I would guess that in terms of being undesirable, it can go two ways," Hernandez said Wednesday. "If the mayor decides they don't want the undesirables within the city limits, then people in Costa Mesa can also make a statement that the City of Costa Mesa is an undesirable place to live."

"When I say evacuate, certainly you should leave before the mayor sends his troops out," he added. "Because he has been very upfront that you are not welcome in the city of Costa Mesa."

The City Council passed the resolution Tuesday night, at the behest of Mayor Allan Mansoor, declaring the city as one that does not condone illegal immigration. Mansoor, a vocal opponent of illegal immigration, said the action will lead to future proposals cracking down on illegal immigrants in the city.

Mansoor said the city needs to do more to tackle the issue, including taking a look at whether police officers can do more to check immigration statuses of unlicensed drivers. In past years, the city has targeted day laborers and pushed for its police officers to enforce federal immigration laws.

He added that he was tired of the name-calling by opponents, including those who called him a racist, and those who believe that only federal government officials should deal with the issue.

The Anti-Defamation League of California and American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California have also condemned Mansoor's proposals, which they say will divide the community and promote hatred.

In a statement, Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles, said, "The cancer of intolerance that has afflicted Arizona with the passage of SB1070 has now metastasized to the City of Costa Mesa. By declaring itself a "Rule of Law City," Costa Mesa has voted to make life a living hell for immigrants and their families."

Staff Writer Cindy Carcamo contributed to this report.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7956 or epak@ocregister.com

http://www.ocregister.com/news/city-249 ... costa.html