New York, NY—Today, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Donald Trump held a joint press conference to promote legislation aimed at “elevating the issue of non-citizens voting in federal elections.” House Republicans plan to introduce a bill requiring proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections. The bill mandates states to remove noncitizens from existing voter rolls. However, in the United States, federal law already bans noncitizens from voting in federal elections, and instances of noncitizen voting are extremely rare. Across the country, states are required to conduct list maintenance to eliminate ineligible voters from registration lists. Investigations led by Democratic and Republican officials have found almost no instances of noncitizen voting.
This proposed bill represents MAGA Republicans’ continuous attempts to amplify their anti-immigrant agenda, fearmonger immigrant communities, and delegitimize the country’s democratic process in order to advance their own political interests.
Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO of NYIC Action, said:
“Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans continue to spread lies about noncitizen voting in federal elections, using scare tactics to advance their anti-immigrant agenda and secure votes. Spreading these lies undermines the integrity of our democratic process, and puts a target on immigrant communities by perpetuating a culture of fear and division. The facts demonstrate that noncitizen voting is a fabricated issue that lacks any evidence to validate its existence. The GOP’s exploitation of this falsehood further reveals their disregard for the truth and their motive to create confusion, spread misinformation, and scapegoat immigrants for their own election losses.”
NYIC Action Endorses Immigrant Champions for NYS Legislature, As Immigration Emerges As Top Voter Issue
New York, NY—Today, NYIC Action, the 501(c)4 sister organization of the New York Immigration Coalition, announced its first round of endorsements for the New York State Senate and State Assembly.
This round of endorsements encompasses elected leaders from across the state who have all demonstrated their commitment to immigrant rights. They represent diverse communities, helping to ensure inclusive representation for all New Yorkers. These endorsements come at a pivotal moment in a critical election year, as immigration has emerged as the top issue for voters while New York Democrats strive to maintain control of both the State Senate and State Assembly.
Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO of NYIC Action, said:
“As immigration takes center stage, it is crucial that we elect pro-immigrant candidates who have proven their dedication to pushing forward the rights of all New Yorkers. We are proud to endorse this slate of candidates for re-election in the State Legislature, who have consistently stood with immigrant New Yorkers amidst rising anti-immigrant politics fueled by MAGA Republicans. These legislators are experienced leaders who have championed immigrant New Yorkers within the halls of Albany, advocating for representation and equal rights for all. We need a strong legislative body that will pass laws that center the voices of our immigrant neighbors so that all New Yorkers can thrive in our great state.”
NYIC Action's State Legislature endorsed candidates are:
State Senate
Andrea Stewart-Cousins - District 35
Michael Gianaris - District 12
Andrew Gounardes - District 26
Brad Hoylman - District 47
Brian Kavanagh - District 27
Gustavo Rivera - District 33
Jabari Brisport - District 25
Jessica Ramos - District 13
John Liu - District 16
Jose M. Serrano - District 29
Julia Salazar - District 18
Kristen Gonzalez - District 59
Luis Sepulveda - District 32
Nathalia Fernandez - District 34
Pete Harckham - District 40
Robert Jackson - District 31
Samra Brouk - District 55
Shelley Mayer - District 37
Zellnor Myrie - District 20
State Assembly
Carl Heastie - District 83
Al Taylor - District 71
Alex Bores - District 73
Andrew Hevesi - District 28
Anna Kelles - District 125
Catalina Cruz - District 39
Chris Burdick - District 93
Dana Levenberg - District 95
Eddie Gibbs - District 68
Emily Gallagher - District 50
George Alvarez - District 78
Grace Lee - District 65
Harvey Epstein - District 74
Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas - District 34
John Zaccaro - District 80
Jonathan Rivera - District 149
Karines Reyes - District 87
Kenny Burgos - District 85
Khaleel Anderson - District 31
Latrice Walker - District 55
Manny De Los Santos - District 72
Marcela Mitaynes - District 51
Michelle Solages - District 22
Phara Souffrant Forrest - District 57
Rebecca Seawright - District 76
Robert Carroll - District 44
Ron Kim - District 40
Sarah Clark - District 136
Sarahana Shrestha - District 103
Steven Otis - District 91
Steven Raga - District 30
Tony Simone - District 75
Yudelka Tapia - District 86
Zohran Mamdani - District 36
"I am immensely proud to be endorsed by NYIC Action and ready to continue building a New York that serves the many, not the few. As a proud daughter of an immigrant family, Queens native, and community organizer, I believe that everyone has a right to a dignified life and shouldn't have to struggle for it. That's why I believe in continuing to be a staunch advocate for immigrants in Albany, including by fighting for the New York Health Act and Coverage for All, to ensure that low-income immigrants have equal access to healthcare programs and services,” said State Senator Kristen Gonzalez (D59).
“I’m so proud to be endorsed by NYIC Action. As the daughter of an immigrant and the representative of vibrant and diverse immigrant communities, I’m committed to advancing economic and social justice for all New Yorkers. I’m honored to be the prime sponsor of Coverage for All and to work with NYIC on its passage because healthcare is a human right,” said Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas (D34).
“NYIC Action has long led the fight to ensure that our state’s vast patchwork for immigrant communities has a seat at the table. Thank you for NYIC Action for your support and for never relenting in the pursuit of a more just and welcoming New York,” said State Senator John Liu (D16).
"I am so honored to receive the endorsement of NYIC Action, who do the vital work of fighting to protect New York's immigrant communities every day. As a daughter of Haitian immigrants and the chair of the Assembly's New Americans Task Force, it's essential that I'm using my office to organize in tandem with immigrant communities in my district. It is my duty as a legislator to serve all New Yorkers and ensure across-the-board access to vital public resources. I'm excited to organize with NYIC Action over this next term to pass the Access to Representation Act and ensure all of my constituents have the right to counsel. Together, we can continue our fight to balance the scales of justice in New York,” said Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest (D57).
"As the representative of New York's 31st Assembly district, I am deeply grateful for the endorsement of NYIC Action. Their support energizes me to continue championing the rights and opportunities of all immigrants in our diverse community,” said Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson (D31).
Background:
This election cycle, NYIC Action endorsed candidates for New York State Senate and State Assembly. These endorsements were made following a careful review of candidates who signed on to NYIC Action’s policy platform pledge, to create healthy communities; end state support for detention, deportation, and mass incarceration; create quality education for all; build immigrant power and guarantee civil rights; and ensure economic justice and good jobs.
Immigrant Advocates Applaud Congress’ Vote to Remove MAGA Republican George Santos from Congress
New York, NY—Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted and expelled Republican Congressman George Santos from Congress following an ethics committee report that revealed he used his campaign funds to pay for personal expenses. Representative Santos is now the sixth lawmaker in U.S. history expelled from Congress.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of NYIC Action, said:
“George Santos was tasked with representing New Yorkers in Congress and he served nobody but himself for an entire year, as evidenced by the ethics committee report. As the country prepares for next year’s crucial election, it serves as a reminder of how important it is for the American people to be represented by elected officials who can take their duty to serve the people in their district with honesty and integrity seriously. Instead of prioritizing extreme, anti-immigrant policies designed simply to forward a racist and xenophobic agenda, Republicans should focus on governing their colleagues and ensure they are rightfully serving the people who elected them into office.”
Voters Stand Up for Immigrant Communities and Elect NYIC Action Endorsed Candidates
New York, NY— Last night, New Yorkers reaffirmed their support for immigrant communities at the ballot box by reelecting our slate of immigrant rights champions, who believe in a New York that works for everyone regardless of legal status.
NYIC Action’s slate of endorsed candidates for New York’s general election emerged victorious. Next year, immigration will be at the forefront of electoral issues, and it is crucial we have champions across all levels of government fighting for legislation that supports immigrant communities and all New Yorkers.
All endorsed candidates have committed to NYIC Action’s Policy Pledge, 2023: A Blueprint for New York State. This political agenda ensures that our vision of an inclusive New York is integrated into their policy platform.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of NYIC Action, said:
“New York voters have once again emphasized the importance of upholding our legacy as a welcoming city to all when they cast their ballots. The results from last night’s election serve as a reminder that visionary and bold leaders who will not shy away from championing legislation aimed at strengthening protections for immigrants and vulnerable New Yorkers can win at the polls. Once again, we congratulate our endorsed candidates on their reelection and look forward to working with them to ensure that the voices of immigrant New Yorkers are heard.”
NYIC Action-endorsed candidates who won their races include:
Erie County Legislature
Howard Johnson, District 1
April Baskin, District 2
NYC Council
Justin Brannan, District 47
Linda Lee, District 23
Christopher Marte, District 1
Carlina Rivera, District 2
Erik Bottcher, District 3
Julie Menin, District 5
Gale Brewer, District 6
Shaun Abreu, District 7
Diana Ayala, District 8
Carmen De La Rosa, District 10
Pierina Sanchez, District 14
Althea Stevens, District 16
Amanda Farias, District 18
Francisco Moya, District 21
Tiffany Caban, District 22
Shekar Krishnan, District 25
Nantasha Williams, District 27
Adrienne Adams, District 28
Lynn Schulman, District 29
Jennifer Gutierrez, District 34
Crystal Hudson, District 35
Chi Osse, District 36
Sandy Nurse, District 37
Alexa Aviles, District 38
Shahana Hanif, District 39
Rita Joseph, District 40
Background
This election cycle, NYIC Action endorsed candidates for New York City Council and Erie County Legislature. These endorsements were made following a careful review of candidates who signed on to NYIC Action’s policy platform pledge, to create healthy communities; end state support for detention, deportation, and mass incarceration; create quality education for all; build immigrant power and guarantee civil rights; and ensure economic justice and good jobs.
Immigrant Advocates Denounce GOP Election of House Speaker Johnson
New York, NY— Today, the U.S. House of Representatives elected Representative Mike Johnson as the 56th House Speaker after Republicans struggled to agree on Kevin McCarthy’s replacement.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of NYIC Action, said:
“Today’s Speaker of the House of Representatives election proves once and for all that the GOP is fully in the hands of MAGA Republicans who are committed to pushing their anti-immigrant and anti-democratic agenda with Rep. Mike Johnson as the next House Speaker. Instead of prioritizing the safety of asylum seekers and the country’s democratic values, Rep. Johnson continues to advance racist and dangerous false narratives like the ‘great replacement’ conspiracy theory to rile up his party’s base and demonize Democrats. This is proof that Johnson’s GOP will do anything to maintain power, even if that means endangering the lives of immigrant communities. The American people deserve better, which is why we will continue to fight for an America that values each and every one of its residents and their contributions.”
NYIC Action Applauds Court’s Decision to Redraw NY’s Congressional Districts
New York, NY - Today, the Appellate Division of New York State’s Supreme Court ordered the Independent Redistricting Commission to redraw New York’s Congressional district maps. Last year, New York went through several rounds of redistricting for the State Assembly, State Senate, and U.S. Congress. Barring any further court challenges, the NYS Legislature, which is controlled by Democrats, will have final say over any redrawn maps.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, NYIC Action:
“Last year, New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission failed in its mission of creating fair and bi-partisan congressional maps. As a result, immigrants and communities of color were faced with the detrimental consequences of new Congressional maps creating majority districts for politicians who did not reflect their values winning seats in Congress. In fact, the Commission’s actions led to a slew of xenophobic candidates winning races in their newly drawn districts. Today’s decision is an important step towards ensuring the protection of the rights and needs of all New Yorkers, including immigrant voters, by offering another opportunity to ensure that redrawn maps prioritize the preservation of communities of interest. We are pleased to see the Appellate Division of State Supreme Court’s efforts to revert and create a more fair map that is representative of New York.”
NYIC Action’s Immigrant Rights Champions Emerge Victorious in Primary Election
New York, NY— With the majority of the races called in the June primary elections, it is clear that New Yorkers showed up for immigrant communities at the ballot box.
Last night, NYIC Action’s – the New York Immigration Coalition’s sister 501 (c)4 organization -- slate of endorsed candidates for NYC Council cruised to victory. They can now continue their work as champions for immigrant New Yorkers in their respective legislative bodies.
All endorsed candidates have committed to NYIC Action’s Policy Pledge, 2023: A Blueprint for New York State. This inclusive political agenda ensures our vision integrates into their policy platform.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of NYIC Action, said:
“Once again, New Yorkers affirmed the significance of our ongoing pursuit for a more equitable and inclusive state at the ballot box. At a time when New York State’s legislative session fell far short in serving our communities and county officials have tried to vilify newly arrived asylum seekers, the significance of having champions who are committed to immigrant rights and the well-being of every New Yorker at all levels of government has become increasingly vital. The results speak to the increasing political power of immigrant New Yorkers. We congratulate our endorsed candidates and eagerly anticipate collaborating with elected officials from across the state who will persistently drive forward transformative legislation, improving the lives of everyone who calls New York home.”
NYIC Action-endorsed candidates who achieved triumph include:
NYC Council
Christopher Marte, District 1
Carlina Rivera, District 2
Carmen De La Rosa, District 10
Marjorie Velazquez, District 13
Pierina Sanchez, District 14
Tiffany Caban, District 22
Linda Lee, District 23
Shekar Krishnan, District 25
Lynn Schulman, District 29
Jennifer Gutiérrez, District 34
To view NYIC Action’s full slate of 2023 endorsed candidates, click here.
Background
This election cycle, NYIC Action endorsed candidates for New York City Council and Erie County Legislature. These endorsements were made following a careful review of candidates who signed on to NYIC Action’s policy platform pledge, to create healthy communities; end state support for detention, deportation, and mass incarceration; create quality education for all; build immigrant power and guarantee civil rights; and ensure economic justice and good jobs.
###
NYIC Action Endorses Immigrant Rights Champions for Erie County Legislature
New York, NY—NYIC Action, the New York Immigration Coalition's sister 501 (c)4 organization, announced its slate of endorsements for the Erie County Legislature.
NYIC Action is endorsing two candidates, Legislators Howard Johnson (District 1) and April Baskin (District 2), who have demonstrated their commitment to building long-lasting power across immigrant communities in New York. These candidates fought alongside us to advocate for the implementation of language accessibility across all departments of Erie County in 2023, and have shown up as champions for our immigrant communities in Buffalo.
All endorsed candidates have committed to NYIC Action’s Policy Pledge, 2023: A Blueprint for New York State. They vowed to champion our vision and incorporate it into their policy platform.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of NYIC Action, said:
“Across New York, we are seeing those who want to uphold our states’ tradition of welcoming newcomers with open arms and those who seek to sow division in our communities by closing their doors to those in need with hateful rhetoric. Now more than ever, it is crucial that we elect pro-immigrant candidates into office at all levels of government in New York State, especially at the county level where policy can have such a direct effect on our immigrant neighbors’ lives. We are pleased to endorse Howard Johnson and April Baskin for Erie County Legislature, two incumbents who have already proven their commitment to supporting immigrant New Yorkers by advocating for inclusion and championing language accessibility to ensure that all Erie County residents can access the government services they need without language barriers. We are certain they will continue to fight alongside us in future campaigns to build a more just county and state.”
NYIC Action's Erie County endorsed candidates are:
Howard Johnson - District 1
April Baskin - District 2
“I am deeply appreciative of NYIC ACTION's endorsement. Buffalo has experienced population growth for the first time in over 70 years and the primary reason for the increase is our growing immigrant community. As our population has grown, so have the demands for inclusivity and access in local government for our newest Buffaloinans. I have introduced a Language Access Plan for Erie County to bring our vital County services into the languages of our immigrant community. This will not only provide better service, but hopefully build trust with some of our most vulnerable residents. I am grateful to NYIC ACTION for their support of immigrants in Erie County and across New York State,” said Legislator April Baskin (D2).
Background
This election cycle, NYIC Action endorsed candidates for Erie County Legislature. These endorsements were made following a careful review of candidates who signed on to NYIC Action’s policy platform pledge, to create healthy communities; end state support for detention, deportation, and mass incarceration; create quality education for all; build immigrant power and guarantee civil rights; and ensure economic justice and good jobs.
###
NYIC Action Unveils Endorsements for Pro-Immigrant Candidates for New York City Council
New York, NY—Today, NYIC Action, the 501(c)4 sister organization of the New York Immigration Coalition, announced its endorsements for the New York City Council. All endorsed candidates have enthusiastically committed to championing NYIC Action’s policy platform, “2023: A Vision for New York City,” a plan that works to protect the rights of all New Yorkers and pushes legislation initiatives that will help immigrants not just survive but thrive in New York.
NYIC Action’s agenda is centered in five policy areas that are critical to immigrants in New York City. The issue areas include: ending state support for detention; deportation and mass incarceration; creating healthy communities; securing quality education; building political power and guaranteed civil rights; and ensuring economic justice and good jobs.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of NYIC Action, said:
“With the arrival of over 50,000 asylum seekers since last spring, New York City is at a critical moment in building on its rich history as a welcoming city for all immigrants. To meet the needs of this moment, it is more important than ever that we have champions in city government who are fighting for the rights and security of every single New Yorker, whether they arrived here 30 years or 30 days ago. In the last City Council elections in 2021, NYIC Action helped propel a range of pro-immigrant candidates into office. In 2023, we are pleased to endorse an exciting slate of candidates who over the last two years have shown their commitment to supporting our immigrant communities. When this slate is elected we will be in an even stronger position to pass legislation that centers the health, education, jobs and rights of our immigrant neighbors.”
NYIC Action's endorsed candidates are:
In Manhattan:
Christopher Marte - District 1
Carlina Rivera - District 2
Erik Bottcher - District 3
Julie Menin - District 5
Gale Brewer - District 6
Shaun Abreu - District 7
Diana Ayala - District 8
Carmen De La Rosa - District 10
In The Bronx:
Marjorie Velazquez - District 13
Pierina Sanchez - District 14
Althea Stevens - District 16
Amanda Farias - District 18
In Brooklyn:
Jennifer Gutiérrez - District 34
Crystal Hudson - District 35
Chi Ossé - District 36
Sandy Nurse - District 37
Alexa Aviles - District 38
Shahana Hanif - District 39
Rita Joseph - District 40
Justin Brannan - District 47
In Queens:
Francisco Moya - District 21
Tiffany Cabán - District 22
Linda Lee - District 23
Shekar Krishnan - District 25
Nantasha Williams - District 27
Adrienne Adams - District 28
Lynn Schulman - District 29
"I'm proud to be endorsed by New York Immigration Coalition Action, as we work to ensure the City equally prioritizes support for immigrant communities that are critical to the strength of our neighborhoods. As New Yorkers, we must share in the benefits and struggles of our city. I will continue to provide leadership that centers the diversity of New York City, empowers immigrant communities, and delivers access to the resources that improve the lives of all New Yorkers who too often have not been a priority of the government. I look forward to continuing the work with advocates, communities, and everyday residents to secure equitable inclusion in advancement opportunities for immigrant New Yorkers." said NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (CD28).
"I am honored to once again have NYIC Action's endorsement. NYIC Action has worked tirelessly to dismantle the oppressive systems that prevent hardworking individuals who come to our city from creating a better life for themselves and their families. I am proud to stand with NYIC Action and work towards creating a better home for our city's more than 3 million immigrants," said Councilmember Crystal Hudson (CD35).
"It doesn't matter if you've been a New Yorker since birth or since breakfast, you are home now. New York is a city of immigrants built by immigrants and powered by immigrants. That's who we are and who we will always be. I'm grateful for the endorsement of New York Immigration Coalition Action, a powerful advocate for the rights and dignity of all people. Together, we will work to ensure that every voice is heard and all people are treated with dignity, respect and fairness,” said Councilmember Justin Brannan (CD47).
“As the daughter of two working-class Bangladeshi immigrants, I am overjoyed to have the NYIC Action in my corner once again. Having worked with the coalition to push our City toward a compassionate response to incoming asylum seekers, I am thrilled we will be working together on my reelection campaign. I have always sought to put the needs of our immigrant communities front and center in my political work, from my work in government and Immigration Committee Chair to our grassroots organizing across my district. With the help of the NYIC Action, I know this election we’ll turn out even more of our immigrant neighbors and send a strong message to City Hall that in New York City, immigrant rights are human rights,” said Councilmember Shahana Hanif (CD39).
“I am very grateful to be endorsed by New York Immigration Coalition Action! NYIC Action has been leading the charge to secure fundamental rights for immigrants across our state, many of whom work laborious jobs for low pay and little recognition. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with NYIC Action to improve conditions for immigrant workers by expanding street vendor licenses, fighting for rights for gig workers, and ending 24 hour workdays for home attendants,” said Councilmember Christopher Marte (CD1).
“As the daughter of an immigrant, I am thrilled to receive the endorsement of NYIC. I look forward to continuing my partnership with NYIC Action fighting for a more just and equitable City that supports its strong and diverse immigrant population,” said Councilmember Julie Menin (CD5).
“We are thrilled to be endorsed by New York Immigration Coalition Action. The battle to protect our immigrant families is personal for me. As a son of Dominican immigrants and first attorney in my family, I will work to finally secure the universal right to counsel for every single immigrant facing the threat of deportation in New York City. I will also be a champion for immigrant workers and small business owners by making sure they have equal access to the resources they need to flourish,” said Councilmember Shaun Abreu (CD7).
"I am proud to stand in solidarity with New York Immigration Coalition Action and am grateful for their endorsement. With rising anti-immigrant sentiments in our country and the ongoing humanitarian crisis facing asylum seekers and other immigrants, we need the leadership of NYIC Action to advance policies that ensure the conditions necessary for a just future for immigrants. I commit to fighting for the NYIC Action agenda. As Chair of the Civil Service and Labor Committee, in particular, I commit to supporting immigrant workers' efforts to improve their working conditions and livelihood,” said Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa (CD10).
"I am proud to stand with NYIC Action in its fight to transfer resources from detention, deportation, and mass incarceration to public education, public health, and economic justice. It is an honor to have their endorsement of my campaign for true public safety and a city where working people are free from the domination of the billionaire class. To win that city, we must build immigrant power, and that's what NYIC Action is all about,” said Councilmember Tiffany Caban (CD22).
“I’ve been proud to stand with New York Immigration Coalition Action in every fight for immigrant New Yorkers, from winning cash relief for undocumented families during COVID, to expanding the right to vote to green card holders, to guaranteeing legal representation for our neighbors facing deportation. I’m humbled to have the support of these fierce immigrant justice advocates,” said Councilmember Shekar Krishnan (CD25).
“Thank you to NYIC Action for your endorsement of my re-election campaign. Your support not only validates the work I've done, but also inspires me to continue fighting for the issues that matter most to immigrant communities. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve,” said Councilmember Nantasha Williams (CD27).
"NYIC Action is leading the charge to ensure that New York’s immigrant communities have true partners in government, and I am honored to have their support. As Chair of the Council’s Health Committee and a longtime health care advocate, I especially share their focus on addressing health care inequalities and inequities across the five boroughs. Every New Yorker should have access to quality, affordable health care — as well as housing, education, and other essential services — regardless of their immigration and economic status. I look forward to continuing my collaboration with NYIC Action to build a better city for everyone,” said Councilmember Lynn Schulman (CD29).
“I’m proud to have the support of NYC Action and am dedicated to the fight for greater stability and support to our newest neighbors in New York City. District 38 is home to a diverse range of immigrant communities who demand their fair share of resources from city government and should expect nothing less. If re-elected, I remain ready to center their voices and champion their causes in city hall,” said Councilmember Alexa Aviles (CD38).
"It is a great privilege to receive the endorsement of NYIC Action. As an immigrant myself, I deeply understand the challenges and obstacles that immigrant families encounter in our city. I am proud to work alongside NYIC Action to fight for solutions that address these challenges head-on. From securing quality education for our children to promoting economic justice in our communities, there is much work to be done to create a fair and just future for immigrants. I am committed to this critical work, and I thank NYIC Action for their partnership and support," said Councilmember Rita Joseph (CD40).
###
Immigrant Advocates Congratulate Hakeem Jeffries
New York, NY—Today, the U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Caucus voted to make Hakeem Jeffries the House Democratic Leader, where he will lead the minority party in Congress.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of NYIC Action, said:
“We congratulate U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries on his new position as House Democratic Leader, and look forward to continuing to work with him to fight for the rights of immigrants in New York and across the country. He knows that when our immigrant neighbors wake up every day – whether it’s to go to work or take their children to school —their ability to build their lives and futures in New York ultimately depends on what action Congress will take to implement meaningful immigration reform. When people fleeing violence in their home countries are not offered an orderly process for claiming asylum, or are not given the opportunity to turn their deferred or temporary protected status into a permanent one, they are forced to live in the shadows with an uncertain future, perpetually planning their lives in increments. For too long, Washington has chosen partisan bickering over doing their jobs to govern, and refused to come together to build humane immigration systems. We know it doesn’t need to be this way, and that our elected officials can choose dignity over neglect. We trust Rep. Jeffries knows this too, and will bring his colleagues together to pass the laws that will create a pathway to citizenship and a humane immigration system in America.”
###