On National Immigrants Day, the Port of Seattle Commission voted unanimously on Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 to strengthen its Welcoming Port Policy, reaffirming its commitment to treating all people with dignity and fairness across its facilities.

Originally adopted in 2018, the directive was among the first of its kind in the nation.

The updated policy expands language access, strengthens the Port’s stance on civil immigration enforcement, and reinforces protections for personal information.

It also directs Port employees on how to respond to immigration-related activities and inquiries while ensuring compliance with federal law.

“As the proud daughter of a labor leader and descendant of Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II, I know firsthand how policies can either divide or uplift,” said Commission President Toshiko Hasegawa in a statement. “This updated policy strengthens our promise to protect the rights of immigrants and ensure our gateways remain open, inclusive, and just.”

Commissioner Hamdi Mohamed, who co-sponsored the update, emphasized the contributions of immigrants to local and national economies.

“Immigrants power our economy, drive innovation, and contribute billions in taxes that sustain our schools, our roads, and our shared prosperity,” Mohamed said. “From agriculture to aviation, from small businesses to global trade, immigrants are the backbone of American industry.”

The Port of Seattle operates key facilities in South King County, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and seaport terminals in and near Burien, SeaTac, Des Moines, and Tukwila. Port officials said the policy reflects values of equity and inclusion at a time of shifting federal immigration enforcement.

The updated policy was shaped with input from community organizations and legal advocates, according to the Port. Commissioners said they will continue working with partners and federal agencies to ensure that Port facilities remain safe, accessible, and welcoming.