Immigrant Advocates Criticize Trump’s Corona Virus Response—Fear & Xenophobia Instead of Solutions

New York, NY—On Wednesday evening,President Trump announced a 30-day suspension of travel from Europe to the United States, beginning on Friday. The President also imposed a 30-day ban on foreigners who in the previous two weeks have been in the 26 countries that make up the European Union’s Schengen Area. The limits exempt American citizens and permanent legal residents and their families, although they could be funneled to certain airports for enhanced screening. Additionally, the US State Department issued a Global Level 3 Health Advisory its second-strongest travel advisory.

In response to the Administration’s travel ban, Steve Choi, Executive Director of the New York Immigration Coalition, issued the following statement:

"At a time when we need reasoned, thoughtful leadership to address a public health crisis, we instead get a desperate, confusing grab out of the anti-immigrant toolbox. A European Ban, following on the heels of an African Ban and the Muslim Ban makes clear that the Trump administration only has one remedy to any national concern real or imagined—foment fear by attacking immigrants rather than forging honest solutions like more COVID-19 test kits, at a minimum. Now, more than ever, New Yorkers must stand united against fear and xenophobia and our elected officials must stand ready to ensure every New Yorker across the state can access the health services they need to keep their families safe and secure, regardless of legal status or health insurance."