Vasquez Under Fire for Silence on Prop. 187

Supervisor Gaddi H. Vasquez, Orange County’s highest-ranking elected Latino official, says he has no intention of getting pulled into the battle over Proposition 187, a position that is drawing criticism from both sides of the campaign.

“I haven’t taken a conclusive position on that,” Vasquez said this week. “I don’t intend to get involved in the campaign for either side.”

The controversial initiative seeks to withhold social benefits and public education from illegal immigrants. The measure would also require education, health and law enforcement officials to contact federal authorities when they suspect someone is in the country illegally.

“It’s unfortunate that some elected officials feel that this issue doesn’t need to be responded to,” said Robert Kiley, the political strategist for the Save-Our-State committee. “I think every elected official should stand up and tell their constituents where they stand. It’s a very clear. There should be no fence riding.”

Arturo Montez, a spokesman for the League of United Latin American Citizens, chided Vasquez for not having the “courage” to take a public stance on an issue, which is so important to the Latino community.

“Gaddi Vasquez is the highest-ranking Latino in the county and he’s used it to propel his political career here and on the national level,” Montez said. “But obviously he feels he is on the right side on the street, the safe side, and he wishes to become a spectator just like the good Germans did when they watched other Germans being marched to the ovens.” Among Vasquez’ colleagues, Supervisors Roger R. Stanton and William G. Steiner say they support the measure. Supervisor Harriett M. Wieder said she opposes it. Board Chairman Thomas F. Riley could not be reached for comment Thursday and Friday.

The proposition has sparked an emotional debate among most segments of society. The Latino community is no exception. According to a recent poll by The Times, the measure is opposed by registered Latino voters 65% to 22%.

This week, Vasquez said he has not made up his mind about the measure. He said he has not been contacted by any groups on either side to endorse or oppose the issue.

At the age 39, Vasquez, a former police officer, is a seasoned politician and viewed by many as the most prominent Latino in elected office in Orange County. Gov. George Deukmejian appointed him to the board in 1987, and he was elected to a four-year term in 1992. Vasquez represents the 3rd District, which is about 15% Latino. The sprawling district includes Fullerton, Orange, Brea, La Habra, Yorba Linda, Mission Viejo and Lake Forest.

Many people involved in the campaign are surprised that Vasquez has been silent.

“This Proposition 187 is the hottest button that has been pushed in California since Prop. 13 and I think every official should show his colors on it,” said Bill King, one of local backers of the proposition.

Vasquez’s refusal to take a stand can be boiled down to “one word--fear,” King said. “Fear of the loss of his political position. I don’t think he has shown much courage. These people should be standing up one way or the other. This is not time to hiding around the skirts of ‘no comment.’ ”

Amin David, chairman of Los Amigos of Orange County--a countywide Latino activist organization, said he believes all elected officials should let their constituents know where they stand on the issue, but contends that Latino leaders bear a greater responsibility.

“It is clear the proposition is directed at Latinos,” David said.

He said he would respect Vasquez more if he took a stand supporting the measure than taking no position. “I think that would be full of honesty and I think our community deserves it.”

David said time is running out for Vasquez to take a stand.

“We will take note of the Johnny-come-latelys and Gaddi-come-latelys,” he said. “We are very sensitive that now is the time to speak and now is the time to act.”

John Palacio, of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, also called for Vasquez to take a stand.

“This is the most significant ballot measure to impact the Latino community this decade,” Palacio said. “Orange County is one place that is greatly impacted by the proposition. It was born in Orange County, the anti-immigration movement is from Orange County. It would seem to me leadership requires all elected officials to take a position.”