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Hundreds of immigrant New Yorkers head to Albany calling for policy changes

Supporters argue that the bill would help build trust between immigrant families and law enforcement, allowing communities to feel safer.

Edric Robinson

Feb 11, 2025, 12:10 PM

Updated 4 hr ago

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Dozens of people boarded buses early Tuesday morning, joining hundreds of immigrant New Yorkers from across the New York City, Long Island, and Westchester on a trip to Albany.
Their goal: to push for stronger protections and more community investments.
One of the key issues on their agenda is the New York for All Act, a proposed law that would prevent local police and state agencies from working with federal immigration officials.
Supporters argue that the bill would help build trust between immigrant families and law enforcement, allowing communities to feel safer.
“This is very important because I know that our community and immigrant community has been under attack,” said Perla Silva, senior civic engagement coordinator with Make the Road New York. “We have been working closely with the community, and they are prepared. This is one of the ways that they’re showing up.”
However, not everyone agrees with the proposed legislation.
Critics argue that local authorities should be able to cooperate with federal agencies, particularly when dealing with individuals accused of crimes.
Some lawmakers have expressed a need to balance protecting immigrant rights while ensuring public safety.
Once in Albany, the group plans to hold a press conference and a vigil outside Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office before meeting with lawmakers to push for change.
Whether the New York for All Act gains enough support in the legislature remains to be seen.