Seven years ago the Port Commission adopted a “Welcoming Policy,” reaffirming the Port of Seattle’s commitment to the safety, inclusion, and engagement of immigrants, refugees, and international visitors who interact with our facilities or services.
Extended detentions by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) — a port of entry into the United States — and implementation of a Travel Ban 2.0 put us in familiar territory with this presidential administration. In response, this Commission is preparing to review and update our Welcoming Policy to meet this moment.
Although immigration enforcement is entirely within federal jurisdiction, as leaders we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure that appropriate processes are followed, and that we meet our Welcoming Policy objectives. We expect federal enforcement agencies at all of our Port facilities to provide fair treatment that follows legal and policy requirements. Without this commitment, government undermines public trust. We are sharing this commitment with our federal partners, our congressional delegation, our staff, and our partners.
If you are a visa or green card holder or a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) considering traveling internationally, please review our guidance page. Our website does not replace legal advice but provides information that may be of interest to you as you return to the U.S. and go through Customs.
Furthermore, the Trump Administration’s federal Travel Ban 2.0, which took effect on June 9, directly targets citizens from 12 countries, with additional restrictions for travelers from six more. This travel ban contradicts SEA’s values as a welcoming port and undermines the American values of freedom, prosperity, and fairness. You can watch my video posted on Instagram where I talk about the Travel Ban 2.0, where the Port of Seattle Commission stands, and resources available to you. While SEA does not have any direct flights to or from any of these countries, it sends the wrong message to the world and our neighbors. The Port of Seattle remains a welcoming port in a nation of immigrants.
The Port of Seattle stands firm on our values and will continue to show up for those who are made vulnerable by unjust policies. As your Commissioner, I remain committed to pursuing every available action to ensure that SEA remains a place that upholds dignity, justice, and transparency.
All the best,
Toshiko Grace Hasegawa
President, Port of Seattle Commission
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