Is Denver Actually a 'Sanctuary City'?

Last Friday, Mayor Mike Johnston announced $5 million in city budget cuts in order to reallocate money to support migrant sheltering efforts. The mayor also warned this likely won’t be the last — or the hardest — of the cuts to come. As Denver grapples with the high price of hospitality, other metro communities — namely Lakewood, Colorado Springs, and Douglas County — are making it clear they’re NOT sanctuary cities.

Denver has been upfront and vocal about its support for these new arrivals. In fact, Mayor Johnston recently told us there are few lengths he won’t go to to support them. But does that actually make us a “sanctuary city”? And if so, what does that mean?

What Is a ‘Sanctuary City’?

There’s no legal definition for the term “sanctuary city.” Generally, it refers to municipalities that are unwilling to assist federal immigration authorities and support immigrant-friendly policies. The designation is typically a self-imposed, symbolic gesture of acceptance to immigrants and asylum-seekers.

Despite its welcoming reputation, The Denver Post reports that Denver has never formally adopted the title of “sanctuary city” — regardless, city officials maintain their commitment to welcoming, supporting, and protecting immigrants.

An Important Caveat

While many self-proclaimed sanctuary cities pass local ordinances that protect immigrants — say by prohibiting local law enforcement from asking people about their documentation status — local governments can only offer so much protection. A city may refuse to cooperate with immigration authorities, but federal officials can still make their own arrests.

And a Clarification

A cursory internet browse shows Colorado on several “sanctuary state” lists. In 2019, state lawmakers passed a bill protecting Coloradans from having to disclose their immigration status to local authorities. In 2023, another bill was passed restricting local governments from detaining immigrants on behalf of federal immigration authorities. But still, Gov. Polis’ administration won’t go so far as to call Colorado a sanctuary state.

A special thanks to CPR for their in-depth reporting on this topic.