The Op-Ed begins with an affirmation of deeply held values that Texans share, and from there describes how the proposed policies contradict those values.
"In Texas, we have a long tradition of looking out for one another. We all have a role to play in building our community’s well-being. Texans place a high priority on being practical. We roll up our sleeves and figure out how to handle a challenge in the most sensible way. We have a strong moral compass and understand that all people deserve to be treated with respect and compassion."
They opt for explanation over politicization. According to FrameWorks, the term “sanctuary city” cues up political ideology for the audience, making it easy to take partisan mental shortcuts when deciding to agree or disagree with a message. The authors navigate around this by providing an explanation of local law enforcements’ goals when establishing how to work with immigrant populations, and how those goals benefit the community.
"Our local law enforcement entities, like those in many other cities and counties across the state and the nation, have adopted practical policies that help them stay focused on their responsibility to local public safety…Law enforcement knows that good relationships and focusing on 'people as people' are good for public safety. We are all better off when our neighbors in immigrant communities feel safe talking to police. Witnesses and victims of crime need to feel safe coming to law enforcement for help."
They provide examples of how their community benefits when human service organizations are available to help build well-being at different stages of life.
"Travis County’s strong nonprofit sector helps ensure that children have opportunities to learn and play; that adults can learn new skills after layoffs; and that older adults can contribute to our communities in meaningful ways."
They close with an appeal for policymakers to commit to sensible solutions to address the complex challenge of immigration reform.
"We encourage Texas policymakers to work with the federal government to adjust our nation’s immigration policies and find the best way to embrace the energy and talents of people who come to Texas from other parts of the world. That’s a complex issue that demands thoughtful solutions. In the meantime, the state government has a responsibility to protect the well-being of Texans."
