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, our City Council, and leaders like Attorney General Tish James 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.
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 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 at (212) 725-6422 for assistance. You can also refer to resources from Desis Rising Up and Moving 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 and district-wide organizing.
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 to attend.
