Statements
Below are statements by the Watertown Human Rights Commission, not the City Administration or City Council.
Republic Services | Teamsters Local 25 Strike
The Watertown Human Rights Commission recognizes the demands of IBT Local 25, representing 400 workers who provide essential waste and recycling collection services in Watertown and other municipalities. The Sanitation workers are currently on strike, demanding a fair livable wage, improved healthcare, and other work benefits and protections. The WHRC recognizes that these demands are supported by international human rights law which establishes a right to a livable wage and basic humane working conditions (e.g. Article 23(3) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 7 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; The Preamble of the Constitution of the International Labor Organization). Similarly, the WHRC recognizes the right of all citizens of the town to clean sanitation, including waste management. In particular, the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 70/169, adopted in 2015, recognizes the distinct human right to sanitation, including adequate waste management. In light of these internationally recognized human rights, the WHRC calls on the City of Watertown to urge Republic Services to reach a just and sustainable agreement that aligns with the basic rights of both workers and citizens.
Statement on Protecting our Immigrant Community
Watertown Human Rights Commission
The Watertown Human Rights Commission strongly stands for policies that uphold the dignity, rights, and contributions of all residents of our community of Watertown, Massachusetts, regardless of their immigration status. Immigrants enrich our city of Watertown with diverse perspectives, cultures, talents, and skills. They deserve equitable access to housing, education, employment, and public services.
We are committed to advocating for inclusive policies that protect immigrants from discrimination, ensure safety, and promote full participation in civic life. Watertown thrives when all residents, regardless of origin, are treated with respect and afforded equal opportunities to succeed.
The Watertown Human Rights Commission will educate and defend our communities from threats of mass deportation and family separation.
Please share this welcome brochure from Watertown Police Chief Justin Hanrahan and the Watertown Human Rights Commission among your communities. Together, we can build a more inclusive, compassionate, and equitable community for everyone.
Statement of Support for Human Rights for All
We are deeply concerned by the recent ICE detentions in Watertown and neighboring communities. We want to reaffirm that the Watertown Human Rights Commission stands in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors and reaffirms our commitment to protecting the human rights, safety, and dignity of all members of our community.
We want to clearly state: In accordance with Massachusetts Law, the Watertown Police Department does not collaborate with ICE to detain individuals based on immigration status. Our community remains committed to being a safe and welcoming place for all. In times like these, we urge residents who are able to offer support: check in on your neighbors, share reliable information, and extend compassion where it is needed.
Together, we can build a community rooted in care, safety, and solidarity. For more information about resources, to file issues or complaints with the Human Rights Commission, or to contact the Commission, please visit https://www.watertown-ma.gov/1195/Human-Rights-Commission.
If you or someone you know has been affected, we encourage you to access available resources:
● Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition
● Luce Immigrant Justice Network of Massachusetts