September 8, 2023

Contact: media@haitianbridge.org

San Diego, California – The Haitian Bridge Alliance is deeply concerned by recent comments made by Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City, characterizing migrants as burdens who will destroy cities across America. Mayor Adams’s remarks have elicited significant concerns within the immigrant and migrant advocacy community. It is regrettable that Mayor Adams has taken such a stance regarding migrants, considering his advocacy for sanctuary cities when he was elected in 2021. Mayor Adams was elected in part with support from the very immigrant community he is now attacking, many of whom are Black. 

Guerline Jozef, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance issued the following statement: 

“We call upon Mayor Adams to clarify and reconsider his statements, and we urge him to engage in meaningful dialogue with organizations and experts in the field to gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding migration. We further extend an invitation to Mayor Adams and his administration to collaborate with us and other organizations to ensure that New York City continues to uphold the principles of diversity, equity, and justice for all.”

Migrants are protected under domestic and international law, particularly when facing persecution in their home countries. Many of these migrants have undertaken arduous journeys from nations grappling with severe violence, natural disasters, and chronic instability, often exacerbated by climate change, past and current failed U.S. foreign policy interventions.

Contrary to Mayor Adams’s assertion in a recently circulated video that migrants will destroy New York City, migrant workers are essential contributors to industries such as agriculture, hospitality, construction, and caregiving. Foreign-born workers account for more than one in five of all workers in the U.S. food supply chain, performing vital roles such as growing crops, harvesting fruits and vegetables, processing meat, transporting goods, and participating in wholesale and retail sales. 

Furthermore, Immigrants disproportionately work in jobs that are labeled essential. As of 2020, there were 19.8 million foreign-born “essential workers, working in positions arrayed across sectors and skill-levels. A higher share (69 percent) of all immigrants, and undocumented immigrants (74 percent), are in the essential work categories compared to native-born workers (65 percent)

The language used by public officials can profoundly influence public perception, and policy decisions, and ultimately impact the lives of those seeking refuge or a better life in the United States. Therefore, it is imperative that leaders at all levels of government demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and respect for the rights of migrants and refugees.

The Haitian Bridge Alliance remains committed to advocating for the rights of migrants and refugees, promoting humane immigration policies, and fostering a more inclusive and welcoming society.