Edit: Special thanks to our co-counsel at Rodey Law Firm for all their help in this matter.

Lastly, we are glad for Chaves County for removing the nativity scene within 24 hours of receiving our letter. Thank you for serving the people of Chaves equally!

We welcome holiday celebrations of all kinds, but they belong in homes, houses of worship, and private spaces—not on the courthouse steps.

Public institutions have a constitutional obligation to remain neutral on matters of faith, ensuring everyone, of any religion or none at all, can trust their government to serve them equally.

Read our full demand letter: www.aclu.org/documents/ic...

See the full story at the link: www.aclu-nm.org/en/news/lock...

See more of the story of Lybrook Elementary and the parents fighting for their children at the link: www.aclu-nm.org/en/news/lock...

It is up to all of us to ensure that the rights, dignity, and safety of all people in New Mexico are protected.

We urge all of New Mexico's cities to push back against harmful policies pushed by the Trump administration by enacting similar resolutions and to acknowledge the urgent need for state-level protections.

Taxpayer dollars are better spent investing in programs that improve public safety by supporting our communities, not policies that tear them apart.

Research shows that welcoming city policies result in lower crime rates and stronger economies. It also ensures that local resources go to local needs, not cruel and overreaching federal policies.

Our neighbors who are immigrants make New Mexico stronger and more vibrant. They are our coworkers, neighbors, and family members. They make large contributions to our economies and communities.

Bottom line: This resolution reflects our values as New Mexicans: inclusivity, respect, and unity.

Every New Mexican deserves that same security. We look forward to continued commitment from the legislature in addressing public safety with real solutions.

In the safest communities, no one has to worry about how they’ll put food on their table or whether they can afford to get the healthcare they need, including behavioral healthcare.