Statement from Port of Seattle Commission President Toshiko Grace Hasegawa:
"This week, we learned — through our community, not through official channels — that a lawful permanent resident arriving at SEA Airport was detained by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for five days. That is surprising and deeply concerning.
"As the governing body of the Port, we do not have jurisdiction over CBP operations or access to federal detention facilities. We are not notified when someone is detained, and we cannot intervene in immigration enforcement decisions. Still, we believe in accountability, and we will continue to ask questions on behalf of the public.
"Recent immigration enforcement actions across the nation raise serious and legitimate questions about transparency, due process, and whether airports are truly safe, welcoming places for all travelers. These concerns are not theoretical; they reflect the lived experiences of our communities and deserve clear, timely, and accountable responses.
"Yesterday, members of our executive leadership team and I toured CBP’s operation at the International Arrivals Facility at SEA in an effort to understand the federal policies and protocols they're following. As a public agency, the Port of Seattle remains committed to ensuring that SEA Airport reflects our RAISE values: Respect, Anti-Racism & Equity, Integrity, Stewardship, and Excellence. These values are not just aspirational — they are the standard by which we hold ourselves accountable. We will continue to push for greater transparency and communication from CBP, and for regular briefings on how federal immigration policies are being implemented on our premises. And we will continue to advocate for the rights of all people.
"Our community expects — and deserves — nothing less."
