Hudson Valley Community Coalition Statement on Governor Cuomo's Announcement Ending NY's Participation in DHS' Secure Communities Program
The Hudson Valley Community Coalition Applauds Governor Cuomo’s Suspension of New York’s Participation in “Secure Communities” Program
Wednesday June 1. Cross River, NY. The Hudson Valley Community Coalition applauds Governor Cuomo’s decision today to suspend New York State’s participation in the “Secure Communities” deportation program in all counties in New York, including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester. It was introduced in New York without any public input or notice. But it has come under fire for not meeting its goals while eroding civil liberties and discouraging cooperation between immigrants and police officers.
Governor Cuomo’s action today is a victory for the people of New York, especially immigrants and people of color. “Today is a day to remember that people can make the difference in government,” said Norma Pereira-Mora, director of community organizing for Hudson Valley Community Coalition. It represents the culmination of organizing efforts by advocates across the state, working together with elected officials and law enforcement to end participation in a program that undermined community policing and created a climate of fear and terror among immigrant families.
“We are glad that New York is withdrawing from this program that has caused so many problems. New York can be a leader and inspiration to other states that are also discovering how destructive this program really is,” said Betsy Palmieri, executive director of the Hudson Valley Community Coalition.
Just recently, the Inspector General’s Office of the Department of Homeland Security announced its own investigation into the program, underscoring the concerns raised by government officials, law enforcement officers, and advocates around the country. By suspending New York’s participation in this program, Governor Cuomo is also standing with law enforcement officers across the state and nation, many of whom have expressed great concern about the impact Secure Communities is having on their ability to do their job of keeping us all safe.
We are proud of Governor Cuomo for taking this bold step. With his action, Governor Cuomo continues New York’s great legacy of being a welcoming state for immigrants and a strong supporter of civil rights for all.
A copy of the Governor Cuomo’s letter to DHS can be found at: www.governor.ny.gov/assets/Secure%20Communities.pdf.