The voters in Mount Desert have made history, declaring it the first 'sanctuary community' in Maine, welcoming everyone equally.

WABI-TV reports the measure was prompted by a citizens' petition that began as a response to President Trump's immigration policies. That petition gained enough signatures to send it to a vote, and the residents turned out to pass the measure 101 to 59.

A 'sanctuary community' welcomes all people, regardless of nationality, which means that local law enforcement and city officials are not required to enforce federal immigration laws. Town officials say it makes sense for their town, since its economy relies on that diversity to thrive. They say tourists and residents alike need to feel safe within the community.

An identical vote will be held at a town meeting in Bar Harbor next month.

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