In an 11-mile march, the Caribbean and other immigrant New Yorkers marched from Manhattan to Brooklyn demanding a pathway to US citizenship.
The march was organized by the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC), Center for Popular Democracy, Make the Road New York, New Immigrant Community Empowerment, and allies.
Starting at 110th street in Harlem and ending at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn, the marchers reminded Democrats in Washington, D.C. of their campaign promises to deliver legalization for 11 million immigrant Americans, which comprise a significant number of Caribbean nationals.
“We marched today because we refuse to stay silent while Democrats refuse to seize the first real opportunity for comprehensive immigration reform in decades,” Murad Awawdeh, NYIC’s executive director, told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).
“From President Joe Biden to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, our national leaders promised they would deliver for immigrant Americans. They offered heartfelt praise for the sacrifices our communities made on the front lines of a global pandemic but have failed to provide immigrants with the real protection and opportunity of a roadmap to citizenship. We can’t afford their excuses, because it will be our families who will bear the brunt of their limited imaginations,” he added.
“Washington Democrats have the power to build a better vision of our country, and secure a true recovery for each and every one of us who call America home,” Awawdeh continued. “It’s time they start listening to the majority of the American voters and take bold action to ensure all our futures.”
Yaritza Mendez, co-director of organizing at Make the Road New York, said communities have fought tooth and nail for decades for a pathway to citizenship, “and that is what we deserve”.
“Immigrants are integral to our country and should not constantly fear being separated from their loved ones,” Mendez said. “Temporary work permits fall short of meeting the needs of our loved ones and neighbors. We urgently call on the Democratic leadership to deliver on their promise and ensure the ‘Build Back Better’ package includes a path to citizenship for millions of immigrants.”
The rally and march came after the news that the current ‘Build Back Better’ package in Washington only includes a parole plan, which would grant temporary and time-limited immigration and work benefits to immigrants brought to America as children; Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, such as Haitians and farmworkers; but without any path to a green card and eventual citizenship.
