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Dear Friends,
Changes at the federal level of government have caused fear and uncertainty across our community. We know our immigrant, LGBTQ+, and communities of color have been particularly impacted. We understand these concerns and remain resolute in upholding not only the fundamental rights of our residents, but also our local authority to govern. We remain steadfast in our commitment to fairness, justice, and equal treatment under the law.
Montgomery County leaders are united in service and support to our wonderfully diverse county and its one million residents. We are committed to uplifting the values of inclusion, connection, and compassion to ensure that our community remains a safe and welcoming place to live, work, worship, and raise a family.
County agencies, like the Department of Health and Human Services, currently do not collect the immigration status of people who seek or receive services. The County prioritizes the privacy of every resident and will continue to adhere to privacy laws and regulations. The Montgomery County Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office are not part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility. Our county law enforcement is and will remain focused on its essential mission of upholding public safety which requires community trust with all members of our community including the immigrant community.
We will continue to promote policies that maintain community trust, promote racial equity and social justice, and combat hate and discrimination in all its forms. Understanding, tolerance, and respect are hallmarks of Montgomery County as we strive to achieve racial equity and social justice for all.
Approximately 70,000 Montgomery County residents work for the federal government and their public service is a valued part of our democracy and many of them are facing uncertainty. Our community offers job opportunities, workforce development programs, and lifelong educational options for community members experiencing job loss.
We cannot know what will be coming next from the federal government, but we want all residents to know that we will do everything we can to uphold and reinforce the values of Montgomery County.
Available Resources
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Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) has a district-wide policy that has been communicated to students and their families. MCPS will remain a safe and welcoming community for all students, regardless of a child’s immigration status.
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Montgomery County Pride provides a resource page for the LGBTQ+ community around “Knowing Your Rights” and other critical services.
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The County’s Crisis Center offers free crisis services 24 hours a day/ 365 days a year. Services are provided by telephone (240-777-4000) or in person at 1301 Piccard Drive in Rockville (no appointment needed).
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Additional mental health resources are listed on the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) resource page.
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For employment and support resources WorkSource Montgomery is the County’s workforce development service provider serving job seekers and employers.
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The American Civil Liberties Union’s “Know Your Rights” resource page has important information for defending the rights of all communities and how to exercise these rights.
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Additional support services are available by dialing 311 or visiting the Council’s community resource webpage.
Community members may need to consult an attorney for their specific circumstances.
 Kate Stewart
Council President
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Office of Council President Kate Stewart
