New York City Officials Move to Phase Out National Guard from Migrant Shelters Amid Fears of Trump’s Deportation Campaign
New York City officials are racing to scale back the use of National Guard members in migrant shelter operations ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. The move comes as the city prepares for a potential increase in deportations under the new administration.
The Background
Gov. Kathy Hochul sent National Guard members to work in city migrant shelters in October 2022 amid a surge in new arrivals. The Guard helped with shelter operations but did not play a role in security, according to Eric Durr, a spokesperson for the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs.
The Move to Phase Out the Guard
The city is working to remove all Guard members from shelters by early next year. This decision was made in response to concerns that Trump could federalize the Guard and use members to round up migrants living in shelters. Advocates fear that the National Guard could be used by the federal government to target migrants.
Reactions from Advocates and Officials
Kathryn Kliff, a staff attorney at the Legal Aid Society, expressed relief at the move, saying, "We’re just very glad that the city is not going to have the National Guard in shelters anymore. Hopefully, that helps protect people."
Dave Giffen, executive director of the Coalition for the Homeless, welcomed the phase-out of the Guard. "While I know the city appreciates having the National Guard step in to fill a critical need, it’s way past time to focus on delivering that kind of help that new arrivals need to move out."
The Future of Migrant Shelters
The city’s migrant shelters are starting to scale back, coinciding with a decline in the number of new arrivals. The city is considering shutting down the tent facility for families on federal land at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn.
Conclusion
The move to phase out the National Guard from migrant shelters is a precautionary measure to protect against potential deportation raids under the new administration. While the city officials are working to scale back the use of the Guard, advocates are urging preparedness for the worst-case scenario.
FAQs
Q: What is the current situation with the National Guard in migrant shelters?
A: The city is working to remove all Guard members from shelters by early next year.
Q: Is the city concerned about the potential use of the National Guard for deportation purposes?
A: Yes, the city is concerned about the potential use of the National Guard for deportation purposes and is taking steps to phase out their use in migrant shelters.
Q: What is the current situation with the number of new arrivals in New York City?
A: The city has seen a decline in the number of new arrivals for four straight months, coinciding with tighter border controls.
Q: What is the city’s plan for dealing with the incoming Trump administration?
A: The city is working to prepare for the worst-case scenario and is considering shutting down some shelters as part of its plans.
