New Yorkers Rally Against Trump’s Deportation Agenda, and to Keep Families Together

Photos and videos here. Live stream here.

New York, NY—Today, the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC), member organizations, allies, and immigrant New Yorkers rallied in Foley Square to stand up for immigrants and fight back against the imminent threats posed by a second Trump presidency and his proposed Project 2025 agenda.

Project 2025 seeks to create a nationwide deportation system that will have devastating consequences for many vulnerable communities. Donald Trump has explicitly threatened to deploy local law enforcement to deport all undocumented immigrants in the U.S. – an estimated 11 million people – including around 4,500,000 people residing in New York. These policies undermine the rights and dignity of immigrants but also aim to dismantle the principles of inclusion and justice that define our country. Mass deportations would cost New York City alone billions of dollars in economic activity, reducing the workforce by hundreds of thousands of people and destroying countless small businesses.

“Trump’s victory won’t stop our movement from standing up to his racist and fascist agenda. New York would not be the same without the 4.5 million immigrants who have helped shape our culture and fueled our economy for generations. Donald Trump has demonized our communities and promised to tear our families apart starting on Day 1; but we will not be intimidated. Trump has underestimated our strength before, and we will show him once again that we are united and resilient. The work ahead will be challenging. But united, we can ensure New York remains a beacon of hope for our immigrant neighbors and future generations. Together, we will keep fighting for a future where every New Yorker can thrive,” said Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition.

“Neighbors Link joins with NYIC and fellow member organizations to vehemently oppose any policies that would rip families apart, disrupt communities, deport long-standing residents and undermine basic human dignity. The Trump administration’s anticipated push for increased deportations, targeting millions, represents a direct threat not only to immigrant families but to the very fabric of communities across the nation. Neighbors Link will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with immigrant families by providing expanded legal aid, resources, and advocacy. We are prepared to meet this moment with our mission to serve and uplift those who call this community home. As we have seen in the past, our entire community will stand together to uphold what is just, defending the rights, humanity, and contributions of immigrants,” said Carola Otero Bracco, Executive Director, Neighbors Link. 

“As New Yorkers, we know that our immigrant communities help make up the backbone of our economy and culture. Donald Trump’s extreme MAGA agenda and promise of mass deportations have the potential to devastate families, disrupt communities, and hurt our great city. New Yorkers must stand together to oppose these attacks and ensure our city remains a safe, welcoming home for all who seek a better life,” said Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez, District 7. 

“The result of the presidential election is disheartening. I am deeply concerned that the implications of another Trump presidency will have detrimental impacts for generations to come. The continued polarization of our country is at a dangerous and terrifying precipice. Economic inequalities will likely widen. Women’s reproductive rights, environmental protections, and basic American civil liberties and freedoms are in jeopardy with the incoming administration's potentially unchecked power to implement Project 2025. As a woman of color, I know all too well how marginalized people have historically fared poorly in our country. I pray and hold out hope that the American people will hold President-elect Trump accountable for his decisions and that we will see equitable treatment for everyone," said Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, District 141. 

"The time to act to protect our immigrant communities is now, and the stakes could not be higher. Donald Trump has made clear that he wants to carry out sweeping raids and deputize local police to detain immigrants on a mass scale. But tearing apart families and sowing fear and chaos in communities does nothing to ensure public safety or fix our broken immigration system. By passing my New York for All legislation, we protect our immigrant neighbors from Trump's worst impulses and enable families to do basic things like call first responders without fear—a policy that makes us all safer. It's time to meet the urgency of this moment. It's time to act," said State Senator Andrew Gounardes, District 26. 

“The security and prosperity of our communities should never be built on fear, division, or the marginalization of our most vulnerable. Project 2025 directly contradicts the values that make New York -and America-strong with its harmful agenda  of mass deportations. We stand with immigrant families and oppose any efforts to strip them of their rights, tear apart families, or sow division for political gain. In the face of such unjust and destructive policies, we must not remain silent,” said Senator Gustavo Rivera, District 33. 

“I know that there is a lot of fear right now surrounding what a second Trump administration will mean for all of us, and for immigrants specifically. It’s ok to be scared and it’s ok to be upset but it is not ok to give up. I promise that no matter what happens at the federal level, here in New York we will always stand up to protect our immigrant neighbors and fight the disturbing rise of white Christian nationalism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism and xenophobia. One way we can do that next session is by passing the Access to Representation Act (S999A) to reform our broken immigration court system, before Donald Trump has the chance to do even more damage to it. The ARA will guarantee that all those in New York State facing legal challenges related to their immigration status have access to legal representation, which is not currently the case. Over the next four years we in the state government will need to stand together with groups like NYIC to protect our neighbors, and we will,” said Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, District 48.

“The outcomes of this election have instilled a wave of uncertainty in marginalized communities across New York, particularly within our Haitian community, who are grappling with the looming threat of deportation under the new administration. Despite these obstacles, we remain resolute in our dedication to safeguard our neighbors and strive toward a just and equitable immigration system. We won’t dwell on the challenges; instead, we will mobilize," said Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages, District 22. 

"In light of yesterday's disappointing election results, New York and New Yorkers will continue to do what we've always strived to do- protect each other, welcome all, and stay resilient," said Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi, District 28.

“Tuesday’s Presidential election results were not what we were hoping for and I join millions of Americans in their shock, sadness, and fear. In the coming months, we will need to reckon with the fact a campaign built around hate, racism, and destructive policy resonates with so many Americans. However, regardless of who serves as President, New York will continue to be a beacon of hope for all. We will continue to care for our communities and do what’s right by them. The next four years will be tough but the work doesn’t stop,” said Assemblymember Steven Raga, District 30. 

"We face a grim new reality today, and must now prepare for a full-scale assault on the fundamental values and protections of our city. Millions of our neighbors are immigrants, and Trump has promised to tear them from their homes. We will not allow this. Instead, we must fight to build the movements, institutions and policies that protect our immigrant communities and the most vulnerable in our city,” said Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, District 36.

“We don’t have the luxury of hanging our heads after a disappointing election result. Now more than ever, we need to stand and fight for the most vulnerable among us and for those communities in peril as we prepare for a second Trump administration that may be even more damaging, more divisive, and more willing than ever before to upend Constitutional freedoms. I stand shoulder to shoulder with the immigrant community across New York State as we ready ourselves in defiance of what’s to come, and ready for the fight ahead,” said Assemblymember Jon Rivera, District 149.

“New York City and the people who call it home are resilient, and we will always remain steadfast in our commitment to the values that shape our communities. We remain prepared to protect New Yorkers from any anti-democratic and unconstitutional attacks that threaten the people of our diverse city. New York City is home to rich immigrant communities who have built our city and power its economy, and we will continue to be a beacon for them. Our city has consistently persevered in the face of adversity, including a previous Trump presidency. Standing together is how we emerge stronger, safeguarding our neighbors, our rights, and our shared values." said NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, District 28. 

“Now is the time for our community to stand strong and fight to protect one other. As the Chair for NYC Council’s Committee on Immigration, I know that every New Yorker has a role to play in protecting our city’s sanctuary status--policies that have kept our community members safe for decades. I will not stand by and allow deportation policies proposed by an ultra-conservative administration to incite violence, economic disruption, or the devastation of our vibrant immigrant communities. We must put an end to hateful rhetoric and protect our immigrant communities that make NYC whole,” said NYC Council Member Alexa Aviles, District 38, Immigration Committee Chair. 

“I agree with Kamala Harris when she said in her concession, ‘Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars,’ and she called on us to fill the sky ‘with the light of a billion stars.’ That’s what we must do as we continue the hard work of seeking justice for all,” said NYC Council Member Gale A. Brewer, District 6. 

"It is a sad day for our city and country. With Donald Trump as President, we may lose federal funding we need to make our crumbling subways, schools, and streets better. His vile language will only continue to cause harm to our LGBTQ+ communities. Undocumented immigrants will live in fear, afraid to come forward to report crimes and to seek healthcare for fear of deportation. But now is not the time to stand still. We will do as New Yorkers always do: stand up for each other, for what we believe in, and for what’s right. We will continue to fight for a New York City that doesn’t force parents to decide between childcare, rent, and dinner. We will fight for a city that is safe and affordable for everyone-- families, cab drivers, bodega owners, delivery workers, and teachers. For dignified housing, equal employment, healthcare, and green space. Our nation’s President-elect is not going to make the lives of New Yorkers and everyday Americans better. But, together, we will continue to do this work ourselves," said NYC Council Member Shekar Krishnan, District 25. 

"Although this defeat is disappointing, our fight goes far beyond any single election. We come from a lineage of resilient people and this setback is a call to organize ourselves stronger and invest in building a future that truly reflects our needs. The working class is facing an impossible choice between rent and groceries, healthcare and basic necessities. It's time for us to commit to an agenda centered on the will of the people,” said NYC Council Member Sandy Nurse, District 37. 

New York City will continue to stand firmly by the values that have made it a thriving city of immigrants, where all residents—no matter their immigration status—should feel able to trust their local government and seek a better future for themselves and their families. We understand that our immigrant communities are facing heightened fear and uncertainty. It is important they know that New York City is fully committed to following our Sanctuary City laws. These laws clearly define the boundary between our role as a city government and federal immigration enforcement, protecting the privacy and identity of immigrant New Yorkers. This respect for privacy enables immigrant New Yorkers to access critical, often life-saving, city services without fear.” said Manuel Castro, Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs.

“For nearly 20 years, Adhikaar has been a lifeline for over 10,000 Nepali-speaking immigrants and low-income New Yorkers. Now, as we face renewed threats to immigrant rights, we stand resolute. In the face of uncertainty, Adhikaar remains resilient. Our doors will stay open, our programs will persist, and our members will stand shoulder to shoulder with us. Together, we will fight for a New York-and a nation-where every individual, regardless of status, can live with dignity, security, and pride,” said Narbada Chhetri & Cynthia Saxena, Co-Executive Directors, Adhikaar.

“As we approached this election, we spent the last few months preparing for this very moment, building out strategy and reshaping our coalitions. We knew that no matter who won, we’d have to be ready to mobilize to defend our communities – whether in the streets of New York City or in the halls of power. The election of a person who has deeply villainized our communities means only that we are re-committing and deepening our fight against the deportation machine. New York must ensure it refuses any and all cooperation with federal immigration authorities and cement itself in the fight against what’s to come next. We are ready, energized and ready to fight for our Afghan-American and other immigrant communities,” said Arash Azizzada, Executive Director, Afghans For A Better Tomorrow.

"We know what we are up against, but we will continue to fight for the dignity and respect our communities deserve. Immigrants are a vital part of American society. We are not political pawns, we are not burdens on society, and we are not scapegoats. We are workers, we are students, we are neighbors, and we are families who deserve basic human rights just like anyone else. We are human beings. We at African Communities Together, remain committed, now more than ever, to fight against injustice and call on all our allies to join us in our collective fight for a better future for all,” said Diana Konaté, Deputy Executive Director, Policy & Advocacy, African Communities Together.

"A Trump administration puts immigrant communities at risk at all levels — blaming them for our affordability crisis; denying climate impacts that overburden environmental justice communities at home, at school, and at work; and targeting their very existence. That’s why here in New York, our movement must stand together and our leaders must take urgent, ambitious action to protect our most vulnerable communities and ensure that our state is a just, safe, and healthy home for all New Yorkers," said Theodore A. Moore, ALIGN, Executive Director.

“APNA stands together with NYIC and other coalition partners to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. Since its founding, APNA has been working to support the underserved and underrepresented communities. New York was built by immigrants, and it will continue to thrive because of them. Our strength lies in our diversity, and we stand together to ensure that every New Yorker, regardless of where they come from, is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. A society is only as strong as its most vulnerable. We must protect and uplift working-class and low-income families. Protecting immigrant New Yorkers from deportation is our civic duty, we are a collective force with our own unique experiences and perspectives, we build a coalition that is stronger than before, greater than the sum of its parts—united in purpose, unstoppable in action,” said Erum Hanif, Chief Executive Officer, APNA Brooklyn Community Center.

"Donald Trump’s re-election is a painful reminder of the harm inflicted during his previous term—marked by the 2017 Muslim Ban, rising Islamophobia, and violence against immigrants. This moment comes during one of the most difficult years for Arab Americans. AAFSC continues to collaborate with partners to respond to hate, advocate for vulnerable communities, and provide safe spaces. We stand with our communities together for the days ahead to face these renewed challenges," said Hizam Wahib, Assistant Executive Director, Arab-American Family Support Center. 

“Generations of immigrants have shaped the past and continue to build the future of New York with their talents, heart and hands. At 17% Asian Americans are the fastest growing population in New York City; Asian owned small businesses employ 555,000 people and generate $121 billion in economic activity. Despite being integral to New York for generations, a racist and divisive agenda once again threatens the safety and livelihoods of our immigrant neighbors. However, even as thousands face harm and injustice, we find home in our community’s past strength and unity. AAF remains deeply committed to improving the wellbeing of our communities. We will continue to offer vital services like research and work tirelessly to advocate for better mental health and a better economic future. The only way forward is to continue to stand strong, build resources and community, support one another, and defend the rights and safety of the most vulnerable New Yorkers. We will not back down, and trust that our unity and resilience will light the way forward, said” Jo-Ann Yoo, Executive Director, Asian American Federation. 

“For 25 years, Cabrini Immigrant Services of NYC (CIS-NYC) has been committed to advocating for our immigrant communities in NYC. Now more than ever, we will continue to do what we have been doing - providing legal and social services, challenging injustice, and ensuring our communities continue to receive essential resources through our food pantry. We will stand tall in the face of fear, knowing that our strength lies in welcoming immigrants, who have always been the foundation of this city,” said Javier Ramirez-Baron, Executive Director, Cabrini Immigrant Services of NYC.

"We stand united, stronger than ever, amplifying our voices and intensifying our fight for justice. CGA joins with NYIC, we bring our unwavering support as a resilient community of immigrant workers and workers of color. We firmly reject any racist rhetoric from politicians that seeks to spread hatred against our communities. Together, we are unbreakable in our commitment to equity and respect for all," said Ben Fuller-Googins, Deputy Director, Carroll Gardens Association.

“The political landscape may shift, but in these times of uncertainty and change, we at Caribbean Equality Project remain steadfast in our dedication to empowering Caribbean LGBTQ+ New Yorkers. Our journey as LGBTQ+ individuals is marked by stories of courage and resilience. We have faced challenges head-on, from advocating for our civil rights, immigration reform, and trans equity to navigating continued racism and the complexities of the COVID-19 crisis. Each obstacle has only served to fortify our resolve and deepen our commitment to one another. Our history is a testament to the power of community, solidarity, and unwavering hope. We are more determined than ever to ensure that our community thrives in a society that values diversity, inclusiveness, and equality. Our mission is to empower Afro and Indo-Caribbean LGBTQ+ immigrants, asylum seekers, and vulnerable working-class people to lead healthy, successful lives, and we stand ready to face any challenges that come our way with courage and conviction,” said Mohamed Q. Amin, Founder and Executive Director, Caribbean Equality Project.

“Today and every day, CARECEN joins with NYIC and many others to hold the line in our fight for justice. We will continue doing what we do—being in the community, teaching English classes, guiding clients through immigration court, connecting them to vital resources, and standing beside them every step of the way. We will keep showing up because immigrants make Long Island, New York, and America stronger. As long as our communities face injustice, we will fight back. No anti-immigrant policies or tactics will stop us. Our mission is rooted, our resolve is unbreakable, and we’re here to stay. We will not quit,” said Melanie Creps, Executive Director, Central American Refugee Center. 

“The Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC) proudly serves over 80,000 Asian American and Pacific Islander, immigrant, and low-income New Yorkers each year. Since our founding, we have been committed to serving immigrants who arrived in greater numbers following the end of the Chinese Exclusion Act and the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965.  As the trusted partner to community members of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, immigration status, income, language ability, disability, gender identity, and sexual orientation, CPC is here to serve all New Yorkers. While the President-elect has made clear that his Administration plans to enact policies that threaten to unravel decades of progress made in empowering immigrants and their families, we will fight back against policies that threaten our communities, and work alongside allies to ensure that New York is a sanctuary state where all can thrive,” said Wayne Ho, President & CEO, Chinese-American Planning Council.

"The Chinese Progressive Association joins with the New York Immigration Coalition to protect our communities from policies that would break families apart and disrupt our community.  Chinese immigrants first arrived in this country in the late 1800's and experienced anti-immigrant laws and an xenophobic climate. Yet they and their descendants have contributed through the generations. Our newest immigrants are doing the same today.  Let's work together and promote policies and an atmosphere that will support our newest immigrants to grow and thrive,” said Mae Lee, Executive Director, Chinese Progressive Association.

"As people of faith and conscience, we cannot and will not remain silent. We call on our state’s leaders to meet this moment with courage by passing the New York for All Act, ensuring that no New Yorker lives in fear of separation. We believe our churches will stand as sanctuary spaces during these challenging times, places of refuge and hope. Together, we will protect our immigrant communities, uphold the principles of inclusion, and build a future that truly honors every New Yorker. New York belongs to all of us, and we will not let this agenda of cruelty and division tear it apart,” said Brayan Pagoada, Director of Organizing, Churches United for Fair Housing. 

“There is no question that another Trump presidency will have devastating effects for immigrants. The cruelty of detention and deportation tears families apart, traumatizes individuals, and destroys our communities. Unfortunately, this is nothing new. But we know what to do. Envision Freedom will continue to fight with and for the 1,000 community members we've freed from detention since 2018. And we will not stop fighting until these harmful policies end, and our communities are free,” said Rosa Santana, Co-Executive Director, Envision Freedom Fund.

"It’s sad to think that the people of the United States elected a candidate who demonized immigrants and Black people in migration, who lied about Haitians in Springfield to inflame hatred and fear and incite intimidation and violence, who promotes racist and xenophobic narratives, who is willing to put an entire town in a state of emergency for weeks just to score political points, who has threatened to deport people in Springfield and across the country, and who has said the Haitians in Springfield were not legal in his mind. But Haitian Bridge Alliance was made for this moment, and we are dedicated to protecting the communities we serve and fighting for human rights, using all the tools--humanitarian, legal, and social--that we have built over the last near decade. We are committed to working together with every partnership we have, and to building more whenever possible, to protect our community and promote a just world.  Now, as much as ever, anpil men chay pa lou,” said Erik Crew, Staff Attorney, Haitian Bridge Alliance. 

“Today HFC firmly stands with NYIC against Trump's deportation agenda that threatens to tear families apart. Our organization is committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of all immigrant communities, regardless of age, background or immigration status. We believe that everyone deserves compassion, empathy and inclusivity in our immigration policies. It's crucial that we prioritize holistic wellness, inclusivity and social justice for all, from youth to elders, and ensure they have access to essential services and support. We will continue to work and support our vulnerable communities, because they are not a sheer number but they are our family and the integral fabrics of our society. Only together can we build a more just and compassionate society where everyone can thrive,” said Yamina Kezadri, Founder and Executive Director, Halal Food Connections.

"We are built and we exist for times like these. MinKwon celebrated its 40 year anniversary less than a month ago, which is a fresh reminder that this is not our first rodeo, and many immigrant rights organizations like those here today have been doing the long term infrastructure and movement building work for decades. For the challenges we anticipate ahead, we have never been more prepared, and we have the best immigrant rights organizations and partners in the country. No matter what happens under the next White House administration, we are committed to keeping immigrant families together and free from threat and harm,” said John Park, Executive Director, MinKwon Center for Community Action. 

“Since our founding, Mixteca has fought for immigrant rights, dignity and respect, and today we join the NYIC to demonstrate that our commitment to the immigrant community is stronger than ever. As a proud Mexican and Latinx community organization, we'll continue to enrich, equip and empower NYC's immigrant community in Brooklyn and beyond. Despite the challenges ahead, our doors will remain open, our staff will continue to serve those in need, our workshops will go on, and our heritage will continue to be celebrated. Together we are power, and together we will continue to create a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment for all. Mixteca is here for the immigrant community today, tomorrow and always,” said Jorge Paz Reyes, Community Organizer & Immigration Coordinator, Mixteca Organization.

“The hope of a better life for ourselves, our families, and our communities is a hope all New Yorkers share. Hope is the reason our state has such a proud legacy of welcoming immigrants who, in countless ways, have always made New York what it is. Immigrants build up our communities, invigorate our culture, and drive our economy — and Donald Trump’s racist, inhumane demonization of immigrants shows that he’ll never understand that. Together, we are ready to fight a new Trump administration’s cruel anti-immigrant agenda and deportation machine once again — and win,” said Donna Lieberman, Executive Director, the New York Civil Liberties Union.

“No matter what, the majority of Americans know this to be true: our sexual and reproductive health decisions, including abortion, belong to us. No matter what the future holds, Planned Parenthood of Greater New York will never stop fighting alongside our partners for our patients, for health care, and for the future our communities deserve. We know that when our bodily autonomy and access to health care are under attack, it’s our most vulnerable communities that suffer: immigrants, women, low-income and disabled communities, LGBTQIA +, and people of color. In this moment, we both mourn and renew our commitment to New Yorkers and the future we deserve. Our doors are open, and we’re here with you and for you,” said Wendy Stark, President & CEO, Planned Parenthood of Greater New York.

“Proyecto Faro was born out of the urgent need we saw to mobilize in order to protect and uplift our vulnerable immigrant communities in Rockland County during the sharp rise of xenophobia in 2016 and 2017. Now, once again, our immigrant communities are being unjustly scapegoated and targeted. But this time we are ready. We will steadfastly defend our immigrant communities in Rockland. We are proud to join NYIC and our allies in standing up for our shared values that immigrants are vital to all of our communities. We stand in solidarity in the fight against xenophobia and will remain relentless in our call for justice and dignity for all,” said Dilcia Suazo & Liz Roberts, Co-Executive Directors, Proyecto Faro.

“In this moment of challenge and resolve, Terra Firma National staunchly reaffirms our dedication to supporting immigrant children and families in their pursuit of healthcare, justice, and safety. As challenges to the principles of equality and opportunity intensify, our commitment to these values remains steadfast. Despite the uncertainty ahead, Terra Firma National continues to strive for a future where every child and family, regardless of immigration status, can thrive. As we move forward, we pledge to advocate for health equity and legal equality with renewed vigor, honoring the resilience and courage of the communities we serve,” said Brett Stark, Executive Director and Co-founder, Terra Firma National.

“Regardless of our political or religious orientation, in response to the results of the recent elections, the United Community Center of Westchester, Inc. (UCCW) reaffirms its strong commitment to the values of inclusion, unity, and mutual respect. We categorically oppose any policy that unfairly targets or discriminates against members of our community. We believe that all people deserve to be treated with justice, dignity, and respect, regardless of their race, country of origin, immigration status or sexual preference. We are convinced that it is the collective effort that makes this country great. Through cooperation, empathy, and shared commitment, we strengthen our communities and build a better future for all. UCCW reaffirms its resilience and dedication to stand by working families and firmly opposes unjust and cruel deportations that affect these families and individuals, many of whom have lived in this country for decades and contribute positively to our society. At UCCW, we will work tirelessly to support, uplift, and advocate for every individual, ensuring they have access to the resources and support necessary to thrive. We will continue to foster an inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Together, united by common values, we can overcome any challenge and make our communities stronger,” said Jackeline Agudelo, Founder and Executive Director, United Community Center of Westchester, Inc.

"Now more than ever, we must hold ourselves accountable to being there for one another—not despite our grief and the outcomes of our political process, but because of it. Because we need each other to ensure our sisters, friends, neighbors, the Korean lady at the corner store, the Haitian refugee next door, the immigrants building our clean energy infrastructure, and the young person down the block fighting to protect our air, water, and rights, are right here with us. Our fight for environmental justice is inseparable from our fight for true democracy. Today, we say no to any future where our rights and our planet’s health are compromised. To love our communities means we must build in spite of the forces that mean to destroy, and New York’s young leaders and environmental warriors are here to reclaim our power, to protect our communities, and to demand a just, resilient future for us all,” said Nyiesha Mallet, Youth Organizer, UPROSE.

"President-elect Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies pose a direct threat to millions of New York families. Enacting cruel family separations and mass deportations would decimate our state’s economy and communities. New York’s elected officials now face a choice: stand by as communities are torn apart or take action. What this moment requires is passage of the New York for All Act to protect our neighbors, prohibiting the use of scarce state and local resources to subject immigrant New Yorkers to detention and deportation. We must also invest in strong, stable, and safe immigrant communities. As the nation looks to New York for positive solutions in this difficult time, we must act boldly and without hesitation,” said Shayna Kessler, Director, Advancing Universal Representation Initiative, Vera Institute of Justice. 

“Protecting immigrant New Yorkers from deportation is more than a legal duty; it's a commitment to unity, family, and the vibrant diversity that strengthens our city. We must stand united against Trump's racist agenda to ensure that every New Yorker, regardless of origin, has the right to live with dignity and security. This commitment preserves the unique fabric of America,” said Somia El-Rowmeim, CEO & Founder, Women's Empowerment Coalition of NYC.