NEW YORK CITY (WABC) — Mayor Eric Adams has issued a stern warning against ‘violence and lawlessness’ in light of recent protests across the United States, sparked by the Trump administration’s intensified immigration policies.
This statement follows a series of protests in cities like Los Angeles, where tensions escalated, resulting in demonstrators being met with tear gas and flash grenades. Hundreds gathered to voice their discontent over the administration’s immigration crackdown, demonstrating in downtown streets.
In response to the unrest, U.S. officials confirmed that 700 Marines in California have been dispatched to assist, set to arrive within 24 hours.
The ripple effects of heightened protests on the west coast have been felt in New York City, which is home to a diverse population with around 40% of residents being immigrants.
During a news conference held at Gracie Mansion, Mayor Adams, accompanied by NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, addressed the escalating demonstrations around the nation.
Emphasizing his commitment to safety, Adams stated that while peaceful protests are welcome, any form of violence will be swiftly dealt with. ‘The escalation of protests in Los Angeles over the last couple of days is unacceptable and would not be tolerated if attempted in our city,’ he declared.
Commissioner Tisch added that she has been in constant communication with federal officials, assuring them that the NYPD knows how to handle protests safely and lawfully. ‘We have a plan in place to deploy the full resources of the NYPD if necessary,’ she confirmed.
Amid persistent protests in New York, demonstrators gathered to oppose Trump’s travel ban and mass deportation efforts. One protester in Foley Square expressed, ‘This is not the America that we know; this is supposed to be a nation of the rule of law, and this administration continues to trample on the U.S. constitution.’
At Trump Tower, approximately 20 to 25 protesters were arrested after entering the lobby, while at City Hall, labor unions held an emergency rally demanding the release of detained SEIU California President David Huerta.
‘This is an abuse of power and tarnishes our democracy,’ one participant insisted. ‘We demand David Huerta’s release and an end to the cruel, militaristic ICE raids happening across the country.’
Another protester remarked, ‘People who killed a Capitol police officer and charged at this government were pardoned, and this administration has the nerve to call people who are standing up for human rights insurrectionists? We are in the Upside Down.’
Rep. Adriano Espaillat, Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, criticized President Trump’s activation of the California National Guard as a ‘knee-jerk… probably premeditated reaction.’ He expressed concern over the potential for further escalation from the Trump administration rather than seeking resolution.
As immigration raids increase in New York City and with larger demonstrations anticipated in the coming days and weeks, officials are contemplating the deployment of National Guard troops in the city.
Over the weekend, city officials shared that they had golfed with President Trump at his club in Bedminster, New Jersey, which attracted criticism from some quarters. Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry took to social media to express gratitude for the meeting and the hospitality received from Trump. Meanwhile, NYPD Chief of Department John Chell also shared his experiences from the day, highlighting enjoyable conversations and the camaraderie of the outing.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams reacted sharply to these social media posts, labeling them ‘disgraceful.’ He questioned the timing of such meetings, pointing out that they occurred just days before arrests were made during demonstrations. ‘What the hell is that, Eric Adams? Where are you?’ he asked rhetorically.
Sources revealed that discussions between NYPD officials and Trump also revolved around the National Guard’s potential presence in the city during protests.
President Trump recently tied his new travel ban to a recent terrorist attack in Boulder, Colorado, arguing that the attack highlighted the dangers of individuals overstaying their visas. U.S. officials confirmed that the suspect in the attack, who was charged, entered the country from Egypt and overstayed a tourist visa.
The new travel ban affects citizens from various countries including Afghanistan, Myanmar, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. It imposes additional travel restrictions on individuals from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela who do not possess valid visas and are located outside the U.S.
Importantly, the newly imposed ban does not revoke previously issued visas, with guidance provided to U.S. diplomatic missions stipulating that travelers holding visas granted prior to the ban may still enter the United States.
One Haitian American expressed her discontent, stating, ‘I don’t think it’s a good thing. I think it’s very upsetting to see and hear, and I hope that times get better.’
As New York City prepares for ongoing demonstrations amid rising tensions surrounding immigration policies, the call for unity and dialogue is louder than ever, reflecting the diverse opinions and experiences of residents throughout the city.
image source from：https://abc7ny.com/post/protest-expected-new-york-city-trumps-travel-ban-takes-effect-impacting-12-nations/16703399/
