Pro-Immigrant Groups Denounce Remarks Targeting Migrants in Atlantic City
A coalition of pro-immigrant organizations in Atlantic City has come together to denounce recent remarks made by local officials that targeted migrants. Last week, a bipartisan group of elected officials held a news conference outside City Hall to condemn a proposal to house migrants at Atlantic City International Airport. However, representatives from nine Latino advocacy groups and Unite Here Local 54, the city’s largest casino union, stood in opposition to these remarks, highlighting the contributions that migrants make to South Jersey.
The rally by the pro-immigrant groups was organized by El Pueblo Unido of Atlantic City, a Latino advocacy group. They emphasized the importance of love and reminded elected officials of the positive impact that migrants have on the community. The rally was sparked by a report from Bloomberg, which revealed a list of federally owned properties where migrants could potentially be relocated. The airport in Egg Harbor Township was among the locations mentioned.
New York City officials, including Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul, have been urging the Biden administration to provide more assistance in handling the surge of migrants seeking asylum. However, the proposal to house migrants at Atlantic City International Airport faced opposition from both Democrats and Republicans in Atlantic County. They argued that while they have compassion for migrants, the airport and the county are not equipped to handle such large crowds.
Some elected officials on Friday made remarks that were deemed unfair and targeted migrants as the reason for increased population and burden on local assets like hospitals. State Sen. Vince Polistina suggested that the growing migrant populations have contributed to longer medical wait times, rising inflation, and supply chain issues. U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew also made controversial comments, insinuating that there would be criminals among the migrants.
The rally on Tuesday aimed to condemn these remarks and remind the public of the positive contributions made by immigrants. Representatives from immigrant justice organizations highlighted how immigrants have fueled economic growth in Atlantic County through their businesses and labor. For example, it was noted that out of the 10,000 members of Unite Here Local 54, which represents casino employees in Atlantic City, 70% of them are immigrants.
While there was bipartisan agreement among elected officials at Friday’s gathering, Atlantic City Councilman Kaleem Shabazz acknowledged that some comments went too far. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and welcoming legal entrances to the country. Immigration policy has long been a contentious issue, and speakers at the rally called for immigration reform and urged a more compassionate approach towards migrants.
Both Atlantic County commissioners and Hamilton Township officials were also preparing to vote on resolutions opposing the airport proposal. The hope among the pro-immigrant groups is that the contributions of immigrants to the community will not be overshadowed by the airport proposal and the challenges associated with processing migrants.
The rally by pro-immigrant groups in Atlantic City serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policy. While some officials continue to raise concerns about the impact of migrants, others emphasize the positive economic contributions they make. As the debate continues, it is essential to find a balanced approach that addresses the needs of migrants while also considering the capacity of local communities to provide proper care and support.
