Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.
AGENCY TESTIMONY
Commissioner's introduction and message to immigrant communities
2:18:10
·
4 min
Commissioner Manuel Castro begins his testimony by introducing himself and delivering a heartfelt message to New York City's immigrant communities. He acknowledges the fear and uncertainty many immigrants are experiencing and encourages them to continue accessing city services without fear.
- Castro shares his personal experience as an undocumented immigrant to empathize with the community
- He emphasizes that city services are rights available to all immigrants, regardless of status
- The Commissioner urges immigrants to maintain hope and not let fear dictate their lives
Manuel Castro
2:18:10
Thank you chair Aviles and chair Brennan and the committee on immigration and the committee on finance for holding this budget hearing.
2:18:17
My name is Manuel Castro and I serve as the commissioner of the mayor's office of immigrant affairs.
2:18:21
I'm joined today by Jasnia Sanchez, deputy commissioner of administration and strategic initiatives, and Lorena Lucero, deputy commissioner of programs and policy.
2:18:31
In my testimony, I will discuss fiscal year twenty twenty six budget and our priorities.
2:18:38
But before I begin, I want to speak directly to New York City's immigrant communities.
2:20:37
Now in English, I know this is a difficult time.
2:20:41
I know many are feeling fear.
2:20:43
Fear of being separated from their loved ones.
2:20:46
Fear of having to leave their place, the place that they have now called their home, or even fear simply being seen.
2:20:55
I felt that fear.
2:20:57
I crossed the border when I was just five years old and grew up undocumented in this very city.
2:21:02
I know that it what it's like to try to build a life while carrying uncertainty every single day.
2:21:09
So I want to take this moment to say this to you clearly and directly, our immigrant communities.
2:21:14
As you've heard from the mayor and from our city's leadership, keep accessing all city services without fear.
2:21:21
As you've heard directly from the school's chancellor, continue to send your children to school.
2:21:26
From the police commissioner, if you witness or experience a crime, call 911.
2:21:32
From the president of our health and hospital system, and the commissioner of the department of health and mental hygiene, seek care at our public hospitals and city administered health programs when you need them.
2:21:44
And I can go on and on because this city has people, public servants, educators, healthcare workers, your neighbors who care deeply about your safety and your future.
2:21:56
These are not only city services, they are your rights and they are here for you.
2:22:01
But most importantly, don't lose faith, don't lose hope, continue to live your life and don't let fear win.