SACNAS, a society of scientists dedicated to fostering the success of Hispanic/Chicano and Native American scientists, formally withdrew Phoenix from consideration as a conference location. In a letter to Governor Brewer, the organization stated that SB1070 would guarantee attendees would be subject to harassment. SACNAS estimates that this represents a loss of in revenue to the local economy of $3 million.

From the organization’s press release:

The leadership of SACNAS strongly believes the immigration law SB1070 will make the state inhospitable to people of color, especially Hispanics,” says society president, Jose Dolores Garcia, PhD. “We have been seriously considering Phoenix as a site for our conference in 2012. However, we feel the passage of this law and the policies of Maricopa County Sheriff Arpaio will lead to racial profiling of our students and faculty.

Here’s what I love about this. This is not the type of organization that the anti-immigrant side can point fingers at as a fringe or activist organization. This is an organization of scientists taking a principled stand on a law that could potentially target their members. Additonally, it has to be noted that SACNAS made the connection between SB1070 and the policies of Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio under 287(g) which laid the groundwork in many ways for SB1070′s passing and it’s eventual implementation.

Boycott Arizona!