LINCOLN COUNTY, OREGON — Officials across Lincoln County are expressing outrage after the circulation of anonymous letters urging residents to report individuals they suspect are undocumented immigrants. The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office confirmed the receipt of the letter, which targets people of color and calls for tracking undocumented individuals.
"The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office recently learned about a letter being circulated throughout Lincoln County which encourages community members to track and report information about people of color, particularly those believed to be undocumented," the sheriff’s office stated on social media.
Sheriff Curtis Landers condemned the letter's content, stating, "This type of behavior is harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values we uphold as public servants and community members." Landers emphasized the necessity of fostering trust and safety within the community.
The anonymous letter, which was obtained by ABC News, was filled with typos and included various threatening messages against undocumented immigrants, alarming local authorities. Oregon State Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum responded strongly to the situation, stating, "Attempts to intimidate our communities and their leaders through racist letter-writing campaigns has no place in Oregon, and we will continue to stand together against those who seek to divide us." She affirmed Oregon's commitment to being open and welcoming to all.
During a recent city council meeting, Toledo Mayor Rod Cross shared his disgust after receiving the letter, which bore no valid return address. The letter warned of the Department of Homeland Security's plans to begin what it claimed would be the "largest round-up of brown illegals in our history" by January 2025. "I am livid because I don’t know if history is just not getting taught anymore or if the memories of my father and his generation have just been wiped out of existence, but this is not America. This is not who we are," stated Mayor Cross, reflecting the community's outrage.
Although the letter expresses opinions and threats, Sheriff Landers noted to ABC News, it doesn't constitute a crime. He informed the FBI about the letter for awareness, indicating the serious concerns this incident raises.
State law embodies protections against such discriminatory actions. Sheriff Landers mentioned, "Oregon law prohibits the inquiry or collection of individual immigration or citizenship status, or their country of birth, with few exceptions." This aligns with the philosophy of many officials who prioritize the dignity and rights of all community members, regardless of their immigration status.
Adding historical perspective, the Oregon Department of Justice highlighted the state's designation as the first to implement a statewide sanctuary law back in 1987. This law restricts local law enforcement from participating directly or indirectly in immigration enforcement without judicial warrant, affirming Oregon’s long-standing commitment to protect its residents.
This history reinforces the values expressed by Lincoln County officials, who have rallied together to oppose racism and stand firm against divisive tactics. Such actions resonate with the broader theme of community unity, as public officials stress the importance of working together to uphold the spirit of inclusivity and compassion at the heart of Oregon’s identity.
Authorities continue to encourage residents to report any suspicious or alarming behavior, not aimed at individuals based on race or appearance. They stress the need for vigilance within communities, coupled with deep respect for diversity, highlighting the enriching fabric of life within Lincoln County and the entire state of Oregon.
The public response to the letters has not only spotlighted the issue of social justice and racism but has also reinforced the belief among many Oregonians about the importance of kindness and acceptance, reminding everyone of the Oregon way—where everyone is welcomed and valued.
