Council Member Alexa Avilés urged New Yorkers to stand up for local immigrants as ICE enforcement increases nationwide. Speaking at an anti-ICE rally at City Hall on January 16, Avilés, along with other leaders, condemned ICE’s actions and the government’s policies, describing the agency as a “rogue” force harming both the economy and democracy.
Avilés emphasized New York City’s immigrant population, which constitutes nearly 40%, and called for a collective fight against what she termed “fascism.” Fellow Council Member Julie Won also expressed solidarity, sharing stories of immigrant families affected by these enforcement actions, and reiterated the city’s commitment as a sanctuary place.
The event, organized by Hands Off NYC and Vocal-NY, not only criticized ICE but also condemned President Trump for escalating threats against immigrants, referencing the recent violence against protesters. Activists highlighted the broader implications of authoritarian policies, suggesting that language of targeting immigrants could soon extend to anyone perceived as an outsider.
