Release: Hazleton Anti-immigrant Ordinance Ruled Unconstitutional

Coalition Applauds Decision to Prevent Chaos and Discrimination

July 26, 2007

Salem, OR – Today, a federal judge in Scranton, Pennsylvania ruled against the City of Hazleton in a landmark challenge (Lozano v. City of Hazleton) to local ordinances aimed at punishing landlords, employers, and people perceived to be immigrants. The following is a statement by Aeryca Steinbauer of CAUSA, Oregon’s statewide immigrant rights coalition.

“Today’s decision is a win in America’s effort to restore the rule of law while upholding our tradition of fairness and equality. We are grateful that the court recognized these are not mutually exclusive concepts and made a decision to prevent the harmful effects we would have all suffered if this law had been implemented. This ruling sends a clear message that the Hazleton ordinance, and other similar antiimmigrant laws around the country, are unconstitutional and will not be allowed to stand.” >>read our entire release