The recent executive order promulgated by President Trump and his administration — clearly a Muslim ban — has deepened the fissures in American society. While there have always been forms of discrimination, not for 50-plus years have these been sanctified by the state and its executive apparatus.

This executive order, amongst others, runs contrary to our conception both of America but also of our community in Bellevue. For us, “welcoming the stranger” is inherent in the fabric of our city. For us, the rule of decency, humanity, justice, and equality — for all — is fundamental and sacrosanct.

Bellevue’s very strength is not only its diversity but its open outlook. Bellevue’s strength is its ability to welcome all and to find strength in the best parts of each culture and group that calls Bellevue home. Bellevue’s strength is its liberalism.

To cement this — with words and actions — we ask the honorable City Council of Bellevue to declare Bellevue a sanctuary city and to continue to remind our neighbors — of all classes, races, religions, sexual orientations and creeds — that they are and always will be welcome here.

Romi Mahajan, Parul Shah, Neil Sainsbury-Carter, Allison O’Mahony, Liska Rutherford, Christine Hemnes

Bellevue