Planned Parenthood of Greater New York (PPGNY) proudly stands in solidarity with asylum seekers across our state and stands against xenophobia and racism lodged at migrant communities.
Living and raising children in safe and healthy communities is reproductive justice – and when marginalized communities are attacked and ostracized, this is a violation of safety and bodily autonomy.
On May 11th, 2023, the Biden administration lifted Title 42 immigration restrictions, leading to an influx of people seeking shelter and asylum across the US. In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams ordered that hundreds of asylum seekers be bussed to various NY counties outside the five boroughs, claiming that there was minimal space to house them in the city. Groups of asylum seekers have already arrived at hotels in PPGNY affiliate counties Orange and Dutchess, with more anticipated in the coming weeks.
Since arriving, asylum seekers have been subjected to hateful anti-immigrant protests and legal disputes over where in our state they are welcome (see recent examples in Orange and Dutchess Counties). Politicians at all levels of government and across party lines have also been pitting asylum seekers’ right to shelter against others who are unhoused and have even spread harmful false stories to amplify this narrative.
As a reproductive health and rights organization and a health care provider that proudly welcomes all, we stand against this hatred and violence. We ask our supporters, especially those in counties seeing an influx of migrants, to support local organizations like For the Many, the Newburgh LGBTQIA Center, Reunite Migrant Families, Grannies Respond, Celebrate845, and others taking the lead in supporting asylum seekers, including through material donations, protection against anti-immigrant protestors, and public education. Through the Raiz program, Planned Parenthood of Greater New York Action Fund has also proudly provided financial support to asylum seekers in Newburgh.
New York is a state built on the promise of welcoming all who come here for a new life, new opportunity, and fresh start. The right to seek asylum is a foundational human right and a critical issue of sexual and reproductive justice and freedom.
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