New York, NY—Today, NYS Governor Kathy Houchul and NYC Mayor Eric Adams held a press conference calling for expedited work authorization for asylum seekers, and coordination with local municipalities across the state to house them.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, New York Immigration Coalition:
“Today, Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams showed what can be possible when multiple levels of government work together to turn a challenge into an opportunity. In recognizing that thousands of asylum seekers are currently in New York, they joined together to send a unified message in alignment with a chorus of advocates who have called on the Biden administration to provide a pathway for individuals here to get immigration relief, and expedite the process for work permits to allow people to more quickly become a part of New York’s economy. Both acknowledged the opportunity that asylum seekers offer to help the state fill its labor gaps, and the desire of asylum seekers to get to work and become self-reliant. We appreciate the Governor and the Mayor’s acknowledgement of the much needed coordination with local municipalities to promote a welcoming culture for asylum seekers and reject the racism and xenophobia of the past. We stand ready to work with all levels of government to ensure that our newest New Yorkers have the opportunity to get work, get on their feet, and live safe and happy lives in their new home.”