Chicago is pledging on Monday to remain a sanctuary city for illegal immigrants, joining other places across the country in defiance of President-elect Donald Trump's vow to cut off those cities from federal funding, Politico reports.
Elected officials say they are taking the stance, because residents have told them they fear imminent deportation following Trump's election victory.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said in a statement that "Chicago is and will remain a sanctuary city. Chicago has been a city of immigrants since it was founded. We have always welcomed people of all faiths and backgrounds, and while the administration will change, our values and our commitment to inclusion will not."
He added that those with questions or in need of legal resources can call 311.
Illegal immigration was a central issue during Trump's campaign, highlighted by his pledge to build a wall along the U.S. border with Mexico.
Illinois Comptroller-elect Susana Mendoza urged Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner to stand up to Trump and convince him not to halt funding.
"As a leader of this state, the governor, and everyone in a leadership position, should be saying it's wrong," Mendoza, whose parents are Mexican immigrants, told Politico. "I would expect that the governor would say, 'that's ridiculous.' Besides moral bankruptcy, it's bad fiscal policy for the city or any city."
In recent days other cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, have urged Trump not to withhold federal funds, Fortune reports, and vowed they would continue to serve as sanctuary cities, which means they have local policies designed to not prosecute people only for being an undocumented individual.
Among other places that have made similar commitments are Seattle, Philadelphia and San Francisco.
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