Statement from New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark Viverito

“This latest round of proposed deportations is an absolute disgrace. Deporting women and children who have fled unspeakable violence is a stain on our nation and runs directly against who we are as a people. These are refugees and we need to treat them as such. It’s shocking that for the second time in just a few months, immigrant communities in New York City and around the country are forced to live in fear that their families will be ripped apart. This fear only drives immigrants into the shadows. Every day, immigrants across the country work hard, contribute positively and help our cities run- these raids need to end.”

“La más reciente ronda de deportaciones es una desgracia absoluta. Deportar a mujeres y niños, que han escapado una violencia indescriptible, es una mancha en nuestra nación y va en contra de lo que somos como pueblo. Estos son refugiados y necesitamos tratarlos como tal. Es chocante que por la segunda ocasión en solo un par de meses, las comunidades inmigrantes de la Ciudad de Nueva York y a través del país sean forzadas a vivir en miedo de que sus familias sean divididas. Este temor solo empuja a los inmigrantes a las sombras. Cada día, inmigrantes a través de todo el país, trabajan fuertemente, contribuyen positivamente y ayudan a que nuestras ciudades prosperen – estas redadas tienen que terminar ya.”

Statement from New York City Council Immigration Chair Carlos Menchaca

“Raids at a national level are always felt strongly in New York City where we continue to make our neighborhoods safe. We will stand strong against these federal actions and ask all New Yorkers – not matter your immigration status – to stand with us and your neighbors are we denounce these raids.”