NUHW Reaffirms Sanctuary Status Amid Trump Administration Policies

NUHW Reaffirms Commitment to Sanctuary Status Amid New Federal Policies

The National Union of Healthcare Workers (NUHW) has reinforced its status as a "Sanctuary Union" by updating its 2017 resolution. This move comes in response to recent federal actions affecting immigrants, transgender, and LGBTQ+ communities.

Border Policies and Immigration Enforcement

In light of President Trump's national emergency declaration at the Mexican border, along with increased military presence and efforts to construct a border wall, the NUHW has expressed concerns. The administration's push to end birthright citizenship, limit immigration and asylum avenues, and ramp up deportations have further heightened fears. Additionally, the rescinding of restrictions on immigration raids at sensitive locations, such as healthcare facilities, has been noted.

Impact on Sanctuary Cities

The defunding threats towards Sanctuary Cities, as mandated by the Attorney General, have stirred anxieties within communities protected by such jurisdictions. Cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York have been at the forefront of these sanctuary efforts, offering municipal ID programs to safeguard immigrants.

Gender-Affirming Care Under Threat

The executive order titled "Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation" issued on January 28, 2025, has directed federal agencies to limit gender-affirming treatments for minors. This directive has resulted in some healthcare facilities halting critical care, despite endorsements from the American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association recognizing these treatments as essential.

Further executive orders have targeted LGBTQ+ individuals by removing federal insurance coverage for gender-affirming care, restricting gender markers on official documents, and expanding military bans on transgender individuals.

NUHW’s Stance and Advocacy

NUHW has pledged not to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, maintaining members' and patients' confidentiality except where legally required. The union supports the provision of evidence-based care, including reproductive and gender-affirming services, advocating against political interference that could hinder patient care.

Moreover, NUHW is urging healthcare providers to uphold gender-affirming care according to established medical standards and is calling on governments for robust anti-discrimination laws to protect transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals in healthcare environments.

Support for Legislative Measures

NUHW has declared its backing for legislative initiatives that protect vulnerable communities. This includes supporting proposals before the Los Angeles City Council to shield immigrants from federal crackdowns and endorsing SB59, known as "the Transgender Privacy Act," which aims to protect the privacy of individuals undergoing gender transition.

In reaffirming its sanctuary commitment, NUHW seeks to collaborate with healthcare facilities to create welcoming environments and "safe zones" for all individuals, ensuring no one feels threatened when accessing medical care.

For further details on NUHW's resolutions, visit their official website.

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