Mayor Walsh Convenes Community Briefing on Immigration
Published on February 25, 2025
Residents are encouraged to register, watch in groups, and submit questions in advance
Mayor Ben Walsh announced a virtual Community Briefing to provide updates to residents seeking guidance and resources to navigate changes to federal immigration policy, understand local enforcement, and understand their rights. The City is coordinating with immigration advocates, community resource and resettlement agencies, local law enforcement and others.
“Access to credible information on immigration policy is greatly needed. The changes in federal policy are affecting the status of visa holders and causing anxiety and confusion among immigrants, New Americans and many constituents regarding their schooling, work, and daily safety,” said Mayor Walsh. “Our partners are working very hard to provide both support and information. It is important that we do that together.”
The virtual briefing is Monday, Mar. 3 from 5:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and includes information from legal advocacy groups, partners in education, and community agencies. Frequently asked questions to be addressed include Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protective Status, ICE enforcement, and how residents can stay informed.
“We are working to streamline this information for residents, as we understand it may be overwhelming. As the federal policies change, we see this briefing as a way to encourage questions and help residents prepare for possible changes,” said Adol Mayen, Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Coordinator in the Department of Neighborhood and Business Development (NBD).
The panels are being facilitated by NBD. Participants include the Syracuse City School District, New York State Office of New Americans, Office of New York State Attorney General, New York Civil Liberties Union, Volunteer Lawyers Project, Refugee & Immigrant Self-Empowerment (RISE), InterFaith Works, and Catholic Charities. The City is also encouraging watch parties among residents and local agencies to help bridge potential language and digital access gaps.
The virtual meeting requires registration. Residents can register and submit their questions at syr.gov/immigration-briefing.