Protecting Our Immigrant Communities
Providence’s diversity has always been our strength, and Brett’s top priority remains the safety, dignity, and well-being of every person in Providence, regardless of their immigration status. That is why he signed two executive orders to make clear and actionable Providence’s commitment to being a safe and welcoming city for all.
In September 2025, Brett signed an Executive Order titled “A Safe Providence for All,” which reaffirms that the Providence Police Department will not and should not serve as immigration officers. Our officers are focused on public safety, not civil immigration enforcement. They will never ask about immigration status, and our neighbors should always feel confident calling the police without fear. This order also makes clear that the City will not proactively collaborate with ICE, and it directs any federal law enforcement operating in Providence to follow state law and local police procedures.
And in January 2026, Brett signed a second Executive Order prohibiting the use of City-owned property for civil immigration enforcement activities - whether as a staging area, processing location, or operational site. City property exists to serve our residents, not to carry out civil immigration enforcement, and this executive action ensures our public spaces are used to support our communities.
If you would like to learn more about these two actions, check out some of the local news coverage:
Providence Journal: Providence mayor's order blocks ICE from using city-owned property
Rhode Island Current: Smiley establishes ICE-free zones in Providence
WPRI: City property can’t be used for unlawful civil immigration enforcement, Smiley says
NBC Boston: Providence bans police cooperation with ICE under new executive order
Boston Globe: With executive order, Providence mayor reaffirms that city police will not assist ICE
These steps are about keeping Providence safe. They are about maintaining trust, strengthening community policing, and ensuring that families can live without fear while accessing the services and protections they need.
While actions at the federal level continue to create anxiety and instability, local leadership matters now more than ever. Brett will continue to lead with compassion and conviction, and he will use every tool available to stand up for our neighbors and protect the diversity and vibrancy that make Providence so special.