Sanctuary's Shadow: ICE in California

The article on the World Socialist Web Site argues that "sanctuary" policies in US cities and states, particularly in California, are a deceptive facade, failing to protect immigrants from federal deportation and exploitation. It contends that these policies, promoted by figures like Governor Gavin Newsom, are primarily symbolic and serve to politically benefit Democrats rather than provide genuine protection for undocumented individuals. The article cites instances where California authorities have collaborated with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), facilitating deportations despite the state's declared "sanctuary" status. It accuses Democrats of prioritizing political expediency over the welfare of immigrants, using them as a voting bloc while failing to address the root causes of their vulnerability, which the article attributes to capitalist exploitation. The author criticizes the Democrats' focus on symbolic gestures and limited reforms, arguing that they fail to challenge the fundamental power of the federal government in immigration matters. The article further suggests that "sanctuary" policies can create a false sense of security, leading immigrants to believe they are protected when, in reality, they remain vulnerable to detention and deportation. It concludes that only a revolutionary socialist movement can truly defend the rights of all workers, regardless of immigration status, by overthrowing the capitalist system that fuels exploitation and division. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/05/12/dlbe-m12.html