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Dear John,
The early days of the second Trump administration have been deeply troubling. From attempts to erase the identities of trans and gender non-conforming Americans to withdrawing from the Paris Climate Accord and threatening birthright citizenship, President Trump is attacking the core values that define us.
While many cities have already mobilized emergency plans to brace for these actions, Mayor Eric Adams has instead chosen to prioritize his relationship with the President. He canceled his Martin Luther King Jr. Day plans to attend the inauguration, aligned himself with MAGA-right figures like Tucker Carlson, and has refused to condemn Trump’s first-day executive orders. Absent meaningful action from the Mayor, it’s clear that our communities ([link removed]) , our City Council ([link removed]) , and leaders like Attorney General Tish James ([link removed]) are stepping up to fill the leadership void.
Despite the flood of executive orders and fear tactics coming from the White House, we must stay focused and not give in to panic. While Trump’s deportation policies remain a real concern, I want to reassure immigrant families: continue your normal activities—attend school, access city services, and interact with city agencies and nonprofits. New York’s sanctuary protections are strong and in place. All New Yorkers—regardless of immigration status—have rights and access to city services ([link removed]) .
It’s still critical to know your rights and be prepared in case you or someone you know encounters Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE). I urge everyone to review Make the Road’s Deportation Defense Manual ([link removed]) to better understand how to protect yourself and your community. If you witness an ICE detention, arrest, or ticketing, please contact the Immigrant Defense Project’s Immigration Helpline ([link removed]) at (212) 725-6422 for assistance. You can also refer to resources from Desis Rising Up and Moving ([link removed]) for guidance on how to report ICE activity.
Now more than ever, our work at the city and state level is crucial. At City Hall, I’m focused on strengthening local laws and holding the Adams Administration accountable. My team and I are committed to supporting you with responsive constituent services ([link removed]) and district-wide organizing.
* Join a Know Your Rights Training, 2/6
Knowing your rights at every level of government is key to protecting ourselves, our families, and our neighbors from unjust detention. That’s why my office, in collaboration with the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) and Council Members Jennifer Gutiérrez and Lincoln Restler, is hosting a Know Your Rights Training on Thursday, February 6th at 7 PM. NYLAG experts will cover federal immigration regulations, expectations under the new administration, New York’s sanctuary city policies, and available local resources. Register here ([link removed]) to attend.
* Join Light the Way BK Community Town Hall, 2/9
On Sunday, February 9th, my office is leading, in partnership with Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon and State Senator Andrew Gounardes, Light the Way BK, a community town hall focused on organizing, building power, and ensuring collective safety in our neighborhoods. This important gathering and discussion will focus on reproductive health, education, and immigration and explore how we can lead the way locally to push back against the challenges ahead. Space is limited, so please RSVP by filling out this form ([link removed]) . Together, we’ll ensure that New York City continues to be a beacon of racial and economic justice. I hope to see many of you there!
Constituent Services Corner
An older Kensington constituent faced over $2,000 of medical debt at NYU Langone and struggled for months to find a resolution. After exhausting all other options, he reached out to our office for help. We immediately stepped in, working with both the Department of Social Services (DSS) and NYU Langone to move the case forward. Thanks to our efforts, his bill was successfully contested and forgiven, bringing much-needed relief and debt forgiveness!
Community Bulletin
* Due to a fire hydrant relocation on McDonald Avenue and Fort Hamilton Parkway, no parking will be allowed from 9 AM to 4 PM, Monday, 1/27, through Friday, 1/31. For questions or more information, please contact DDC’s Construction Community Liaison, Claire Nurse, at (631) 973-3583 or
[email protected] (mailto:
[email protected]) .
* Share your transportation priorities with NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rogriguez! This year’s “Commissioner in Your Borough” series kicks off at the Fort Hamilton Senior Center, 9941 Fort Hamilton Parkway, on Wednesday, 1/29, at 6 PM. Please RSVP by emailing
[email protected] (mailto:
[email protected]) .
* Want to learn more about the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) discretionary and capital funding application process? Join a virtual training session ([link removed]) on Wednesday, 1/29, at 10 AM. Applications are due by Wednesday, 2/19.
* New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist will be installing equipment on its hospital roof on Saturday, 2/1, from 7 AM to 5 PM (weather permitting). This will result in street closures on 6th Street between 7th and 8th Avenue. Cars parked on the block will be towed to another location. "No Parking" signs will be posted 72 hours in advance.
* Help shape the future of Gowanus by joining the Gowanus Oversight Task Force! Applications are open through Friday, 2/28 ([link removed]) . Task Force members will engage with city agencies, participate in public meetings, and help ensure implementation of the 56 Points of Agreement, which were established as part of the Gowanus Neighborhood Rezoning.
In Solidarity,
Council Member Shahana
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Our mailing address is:
New York City Council Member Shahana Hanif
197 Bond Street
Brooklyn, NY 11217
USA
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