Mancos issued an immigration enforcement news release and adopted an updated community values statement after a review by Mayor Cindy Simpson and the Town Board of Trustees.
The news release builds on a document created when resident Rosa Sabido took sanctuary in Mancos United Methodist Church to avoid deportation in 2017. Simpson said the incident prompted questions about the town’s role when federal immigration authorities are present.
“The Board of Trustees issues this statement to provide clarity: Mancos will continue to uphold the constitutional rights of all residents, and our responsibility as a local government is to ensure that every member of our community is treated with respect and humanity,” the news release stated.
The Board of Trustees said that it wanted to clarify that the town will protect the constitutional rights of all residents and fulfill its local government duty to treat every community member with respect and humanity.
“Mancos has always been a place where neighbors look out for one another, the news release said. “In times of uncertainty, we recommit to that principle and to governing in a way that reflect both the rule of law and the inherent dignity of all people.”
Simpson said the news release was updated after increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Minnesota in late 2025.
“While federal immigration enforcement authority rests with the federal government, local government has clear authority over its own policies, personnel, property and data,” the news release said. “We reinforce that town staff already operate in accordance with federal and Colorado law and will continue to do so. The town remains committed to strict compliance with applicable statutes while focusing local resources on local responsibilities.”
Mancos last updated its vision statement in 2022 after a community listening session. The new statement reflects the current climate while replacing outdated language. The immigration news release seeks to provide clarity on the town’s responsibilities regarding immigration enforcement.
The community values statement outlines six commitments: belonging for everyone; a safe and respectful community; a local focus and responsible action; clear, calm communication; strength through partnerships; and civic respect and participation.
“The town of Mancos is more than a place on a map – it is a living tapestry of stories, labor and care woven by neighbors who look out for one another. Here, the beauty of our valley meets the quiet strength of everyday kindness: grandparents who share memories, young families who plant roots, Indigenous stewards of this land, newcomers who bring new skills and traditions and workers whose hands keep our town running,” the values statement said.
“We believe a community is measured not by sameness but by the depth of our welcome, the courage of our compassion and the responsibility we take for one another's safety and dignity.”
Both documents are available on the town’s website at www.mancoscolorado.com.
