Legislative Black Caucus Statement on the Safety of Immigrant Communities

With continued tragedies and despicable callousness from federal authorities, the Albany County Legislative Black Caucus (LBC) stands as a beacon of hope and support for communities of color and other disenfranchised communities across Albany County.

The harm inflicted on immigrant communities over the past few weeks reflects racial profiling, fear, intimidation, and systematic aggression that have targeted Black, Brown, and other marginalized communities for decades. This is a sustained assault on our values and freedoms as Americans and as human beings.

Every person in America is guaranteed protection of their civil rights, including the fundamental right to due process under the law. Protecting these rights requires coordinated action and access to community resources.

The LBC remains a conduit of representation and equitable access to Albany County services through our partnerships with the Albany Regional Immigration Assistance Center, Crime Victims and Sexual Violence Center, Department of Children, Youth, and Families, Department of Mental Health, Public Defender, District Attorney, Sheriff's Department, and County Executive.

Beyond county partnerships, legislative action is essential. The LBC is proud to sponsor legislation introduced by the Albany County Legislature that strengthens protections for immigrant communities. By advocating for these measures, the LBC works to create a safer, more equitable Albany County for all residents.

Albany County's history, economy, and culture have been irrevocably shaped by the contributions of generations of immigrants who call this place home. Therefore, we stand in unwavering solidarity and commitment to protecting these communities and upholding the values that define us as Americans.