Albany, NY – On June 11th, the Council joined leaders in advocacy, government, labor, housing, and business from across New York State at the statewide convening of the Ellis Island Initiative. The purpose of the convening was to examine concrete solutions for welcoming newcomers to our communities, ensuring coordination, and solidifying partnerships, including creating jobs, housing, and supportive networks.
For several years, the Council has worked with organizations addressing the needs of asylum seekers. The needs of asylum seekers align with the needs of most New Yorkers: access to housing, quality jobs, healthy food, healthcare, and education. In some communities in New York, businesses are closing due to a lack of staff, school districts are shrinking, and houses of worship are closing because of population loss. Welcoming asylum seekers to our communities is not only a moral duty but also a way to strengthen our communities.
Our elected officials can play their part by removing barriers to crucial legislation that, if passed, would benefit all low-income New Yorkers. Housing Access Vouchers, for instance, help prevent homelessness and housing insecurity by providing a subsidy to all income-eligible New Yorkers, ensuring they only pay 30% of their income for housing. Right to Counsel would provide legal representation to all New Yorkers at risk of eviction, and Coverage for All would ensure that all low-income New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status, are covered by the state-funded Essential Plan.
We remain committed to fighting for the passage of these bills until they become law.