New York—Today, New York Governor Kathy Hochul delivered her fourth State of the State address at The Egg, in Albany, preceding the upcoming Presidential inauguration.
Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition:
“Governor Hochul outlined her vision for a New York that is more affordable, where more families can make ends meet, find housing, and prosper. Yet, she failed to mention the immigrants who have already contributed so much to making that vision a reality. While federal politicians across the political spectrum are demonizing immigrants, and the incoming President has pledged mass deportations, she lost an opportunity to make New York a leader by strengthening protections for immigrant families and including them in her proposals – to ensure the safety and well-being of all communities, as well as New York’s economy. Without the $68 billion that immigrants pay each year in New York, the childcare, school lunches and child tax credits that Governor Hochul is advocating for will be difficult to implement. Without enacting legislation like New York For All to build community trust for law enforcement, the public safety being espoused cannot be achieved. Without investing in immigration legal services and passing the Access to Representation Act, the construction workers who would build affordable housing will not be able to stay and work in New York. It is time for our elected leaders to unequivocally stand up for everyone who calls New York home, and fight for a future where all New Yorkers can thrive. When we support our immigrant neighbors, all of New York benefits. Quoting Wayne Gretzky, Hochul herself said, ’you miss one hundred percent of the shots you don’t take.’”