New York City Considers Curfew for Immigrant Shelter Residents
New York City is considering possible curfews for immigrants currently housed in city shelters as a measure to address the symptoms of the migration crisis. Specifically, asylum seekers have been allegedly going door-to-door asking for cash and food, prompting the consideration of a curfew.
The latest development comes in the midst of the controversy surrounding the use of tents at Floyd Bennett Field for shelter, which many argue are not family-friendly. Residents in surrounding neighborhoods have reported seeing migrants knocking on doors and asking for money, clothing, baby items, and food.
City Councilwoman Joann Ariola revealed that migrants have been asking for help at night, prompting her to push for an 11 p.m. curfew on all migrant shelters. She indicated that Mayor Eric Adams’ office may be open to the plan.
Currently, migrants are free to come and go as they please and rely on buses to take them to and from remote refuge locations. While some residents have expressed support for immigrants, others are concerned about frequent door-knocking from immigrant mothers with children during the day.
Opposition to the proposed curfew questions its effectiveness in addressing what they perceive as a daytime problem. However, curfew advocates argue that it is a measure that would bring immigrants in line with the curfew regulations that apply to homeless New Yorkers.
The Adams administration spokesperson, Kayla Mamelak, informed NBC New York that the City Council is considering all options and that no decisions have yet been made regarding curfews.
The possibility of a curfew for immigrant shelter residents in New York City is a controversial issue that continues to spark discussions among residents and officials alike.