In reaction to President Donald Trump’s
newly announced travel ban
and an influx of immigrants
law enforcement activities at municipal immigration courts
On Wednesday, members of the New York City Council along with various advocacy organizations convened at the foot of City Hall to condemn certain policies and encourage peaceful protest.
The rally, spearheaded by Council members Susan Zhuang (D-43) and Farah Louis (D-45), gathered over 30 supporters of immigrant rights along with community members. They held placards stating “We Support Immigrants” and “Rights for All in America.”
A few days earlier, municipal officials debated the possibility of whether the
partnership between the NYPD and the federal government
had violated
the city’s sanctuary laws
, which prevent collaboration between city and federal agencies in civilian affairs. Since then, thousands of New Yorkers have taken to the streets in
protest of ICE detentions
and in solidarity with
demonstrators in Los Angeles.
“Many individuals have lately witnessed large-scale deportations. Numerous people believe this issue doesn’t concern them personally, yet they could become targets someday,” Zhuang stated. “These immigrants fill positions that nobody else wishes to occupy. On rainy days, they’re the ones delivering our meals.”
Zhuang represents sections of Sunset Park, Borough Park, and Bensonhurst, which
based on the 2020 census information
, 53% are of Asian heritage, cautioned about the financial impact that widespread deportations would have on the city.
If we expel all the immigrants, how do you think it will affect our city? The prices of goods will likely rise,” she stated. “Food costs will soar dramatically, leading to an enormous spike in inflation.
Zhuang made unsettling comparisons between the recent immigrant deportations and the
The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882
, which banned the entrance of Chinese laborers into the U.S. for ten years.
The speakers similarly called out Mayor Eric Adams for failing to support New Yorkers at this time and urged him to voice his opposition to President Trump, just as he had previously spoken out.
against then-President Joe Biden
.
The speakers likewise condemned the latest execution of
Trump’s travel ban
, which came into force shortly after midnight on Monday. This order prohibits citizens from 12 nations from entering the U.S., and imposes limitations on individuals from another seven countries.
Also Read:
As ICE Arrests Increase, Resistance Grows in New York City
Councilmember Louis, who has family roots tracing back to Haiti and the Bahamas, criticized the travel ban policy for directly discriminating against nations primarily populated by Black and Brown individuals. She stated, “Such sweeping prohibitions only divert attention from the genuine issues confronting our nation and city, and they go against our democratic principles.” Adding further, she commented, “Denying entry to immigrants and preventing Haitian people escaping turmoil is nothing more than sheer callousness.”
Louis, represents parts of
In Brooklyn, according to census information, 61% of residents identify as Black.
. Many residents of her district are also immigrants from Haiti, Jamaica, and Guyana. She urged New Yorkers to amplify their voices and take a stance against the latest enforcement actions around and near immigration courts.
Immigrants who are at their hearing are getting arrested post-dismissal of their case by judges, following ICE’s request.
“Holding our government responsible is our basic right,” Louis stated.
When questioned regarding the continuous citywide protests, Louis urged every governmental department, along with the NYPD, to adhere to both the U.S. Constitution and local statutes. “It’s crucial that we uphold the law so as to ensure everyone remains secure.”
Concerning those who are defacing property or stirring up trouble, Louis stated that the police have a duty to act; however, he also emphasized that individuals not engaged in criminal activities ought to be permitted to exercise their right to peaceful protest under the First Amendment.
This is a city built by immigrants,” Louis stated. “We form the very essence of this nation. Everyone relishes our cuisine. Everyone benefits from the contributions we offer. We add flavor to life in New York City. We infuse zest into this country, and people appreciate it. So as you savor it, show some reverence.
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Local Officials Gather at City Hall to Protest Travel Ban and Rise in Deportations
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