Immigrant advocates and New York City officials rallied on the steps of City Hall on Monday, calling for an inclusive city budget that expands protections and services for immigrant communities as federal immigration enforcement intensifies.
The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC), joined by member organizations, elected officials and immigrant New Yorkers, urged city leaders to allocate significant funding for legal services, education and language access programs. The coalition is pushing for $188 million for immigration legal services, $50 million for adult literacy programs and additional investments in health access, interpretation services and community outreach.
Advocates also called for policy changes, including strengthening the city’s sanctuary laws, expanding housing vouchers regardless of immigration status and prohibiting cooperation between city agencies and federal immigration enforcement.
“Budgets are moral documents,” said Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO of NYIC. “As federal attacks on immigrant New Yorkers escalate, too many immigrant families have found themselves excluded.”
Speakers warned that without increased funding and protections, immigrant communities could face greater risks of deportation and reduced access to essential services. They framed the proposals as critical to maintaining the city’s economic stability and social fabric.
City Council members echoed the call for action, emphasizing the role of immigrants in New York City’s growth. Councilmember Christopher Marte said the city must “protect immigrant families, invest in the services they rely on, and ensure they are treated with dignity and respect.”
Councilmember Harvey Epstein said the city should expand protections as federal authorities increase enforcement nationwide, while Councilmember Virginia Maloney said the city budget must reflect its responsibility to support immigrant families.
Advocates also highlighted concerns about access to education and language services. Darnell Benoit of the Flanbwayan Haitian Literacy Project said language access is essential for immigrant families to fully participate in society, while Ira Yankwitt of the Literacy Assistance Center called for increased local funding to offset potential federal cuts to adult education programs.
Others stressed the need for stronger protections in schools. Lara Evangelista of the Internationals Network for Public Schools said more consistent training is needed to ensure immigrant students are safe and supported across the city’s school system.
The rally comes as negotiations over New York City’s budget continue, with advocates urging officials to act quickly to ensure resources and protections for all residents, regardless of immigration status.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
