It’s been a tumultuous few months at the US-Mexico border. The influx of migrants seeking asylum has overwhelmed the resources of multiple cities, including New York. While Mayor Eric Adams has called on the Biden administration for help, his pleas have gone largely unanswered.
In a desperate attempt to make space for migrant families, the city of New York recently moved hundreds of single male migrants from the Watson Hotel in Manhattan to a new shelter at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. However, more than 50 of these migrants have chosen to camp outside the hotel in protest.
After being bussed to the BK Cruise Terminal, some single adult men asylum seekers have returned & set up ⛺️ outside the Watson Hotel, their former shelter. Migrants & activists, say because of “poor conditions” at the cruise terminal they do not want to stay there. @NY1 pic.twitter.com/j6rHxO4rCN
— Alyssa Paolicelli (@APaolicelli17) January 30, 2023
The migrants claim that the conditions at the new shelter are far from livable. According to reports, the shelter lacks heat, blankets, and the necessary privacy for these migrants. Activists from South Bronx Mutual Aid have provided food, water, and translation services to the migrants, but the city’s response has been lacking.
Just passing by the Watson Hotel this morning where migrants are refusing to leave to be relocated to a city shelter. The sidewalk in front looks like a tent city https://t.co/mibn2qtpWb pic.twitter.com/6KTohbABcV
— Evan Siegfried (@evansiegfried) January 30, 2023
The mayor’s spokesperson, Fabien Levy, has said that the city continues to “surpass its moral obligations” in caring for the influx of migrants. However, Mayor Adams himself has said that this is simply unfair for cities to carry the burden of a national problem.
Maybe someone needs to explain to them that these shelters are provided to them by the taxpayers of New York. Just a thought…
Outside the Watson Hotel, a group of asylum seekers spent the night outdoors after returning from Brooklyn Marine terminal where they say there was no heat, privacy, or blankets to keep them warm. pic.twitter.com/Drh1jWauq4
— Gwynne Hogan (@GwynneFitz) January 30, 2023
The situation is deeply concerning, and it is time for the Biden administration to step up and provide the necessary resources to help these Cities. It apparently not enough to merely provide shelter and food; these migrants also want access to free healthcare, education, and other services.
US cities have done their best to provide for the influx of migrants, but it is not enough. The Biden administration must take responsibility for this situation and take steps to address the issue. It is the only way to ensure the safety and well-being of these migrants.
Erica Carlin is an independent journalist, opinion writer and contributor to several news and opinion sources. She is based in Georgia.
