Clarke Decries Court Decision Delaying Immigration Applications
Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement on the decision by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to continue delaying implementation of Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and the expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which would allow millions of undocumented Americans to avoid deportation and become authorized to work in the United States.
A three-judge panel of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a district court injunction that prevents the implementation of these programs by the Department of Homeland Security.
“Unfortunately, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has decided to continue the delay in implementing Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and the expanded Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, even as millions of undocumented Americans are waiting for desperately needed support,” said Clarke.
“I was proud when President Obama and Secretary of Homeland Security Johnson acted to allow millions of American families to remain in the United States and participate in our economy. The decision by the District Court that the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has allowed to remain in effect was completely unprecedented.”
Clarke noted that from Ronald Reagan to George W. Bush presidents have acted under the same authority as chief executive as defer action in immigration cases.
“I urge the United States Supreme Court to reverse this decision, ending the delay that now exists in processing applications for deferred action and employment authorization. Millions of people have waited for years for a resolution to this crisis and a confirmation of their status in the United States. The wait must end,” she said.
Brooklyn Lawmakers Salute Veterans
Brooklyn lawmakers from across the borough saluted the nation’s veterans yesterday in honor of Veteran’s Day. Below are some of their comments:
Southwestern Brooklyn Congressman Dan Donovan: “The sacrifices veterans and their families have made to keep our country safe are too numerous to count. We can honor our nation’s 23 million veterans, nearly 1 million of whom live in New York, by saluting their service, recognizing the challenges they face, and acting to ensure that as a community we work to overcome those challenges beyond Veterans Day.”
Central Brooklyn State Sen. Jesse Hamilton: “In Albany I am taking action with my colleagues to help veterans in need by supporting legislation to put New York on a path to ending homelessness for veterans – I urge you to join me in supporting Senate Bill 2575 which would get critical information to the legislature and governor on how we can further help this community of veterans in need.
“In our neighborhood I am taking action with community partners to help job seeking veterans by hosting career resource fairs, our first Veterans Career Resource Fair will be tomorrow, November 12, at St. Francis de Sales School for the Deaf at 6:30 PM.
“This Veterans Day, I encourage our entire community to consider ways we can join together in honoring the service of our community’s veterans on Veterans Day and beyond.”
Flatlands City Councilman Jumaane Williams: “As the day comes to a close and we paused, like we do every year, to honor our nation’s veterans for answering our country’s call, let us be reminded that their sacrifice still stands tomorrow, when they are in need of housing, medical care and work.
“Today isn’t the day to discuss the choices that our nation’s leaders have made in sending our veterans and current service members into particular wars. Instead, today is the day to ask ourselves if we are doing everything we can to make sure that returning veterans receive the support that they are entitled to. Far too often, the answer is no.
“I am proud that this Council, led by Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito and Council Members Ulrich and Vallone, have passed legislation establishing the Department of Veterans Services in the City of New York. When signed by the Mayor, this Department will gain additional resources needed to serve our city’s veterans. I also look forward to passing legislation that I sponsor, Reso. 0079-2014, which calls on the City of New York to honor veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars with a ticker-tape parade down the Canyon of Heroes.
“On behalf of a grateful city, and on behalf of the 45th Council District, I want to thank each veteran for their service to our city’s nearly 8.5 million residents.”
Midwood Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte: “The sight of a soldier embracing family after returning home is a beautiful and unforgettable scene. For many, though, the reunion signals the beginning of a new set of challenges. Veterans face many obstacles as they strive to re-enter civilian life and the workforce, often while coping with the physical and psychological repercussions of defending our freedoms. Veterans Day, November 11, is a time to recognize these heroes for their service to our country and renew our commitment to getting them the support they deserve.
“Home to nearly 900,000 veterans, New York State has a moral responsibility to care for service members who have returned home. Unfortunately, statistics show that about half of all post-9/11 service members will face some period of unemployment upon their return. In addition, veterans make up 12 percent of the adult homeless population in our country, including a growing number of women with children.
“This year, the Assembly unanimously passed legislation that would direct key state agencies to gather information on the state’s homeless veterans and their children so we may better support them (A.434). In addition, we passed a new law creating the Homeless Veterans Assistance Fund, to which New Yorkers can easily contribute by simply checking a box on their income tax forms (Ch. 428 of 2014).”
This Veterans Day, make sure to take time out to reflect on all that our brave heroes sacrificed for our freedom – and thank them. As always, if I can be of any assistance on this or any other issue, please feel free to contact my office at 718-940-0428 or via email at bichotter@assembly.state.ny.us
Golden Partners With Marines In Toy Drive
Bay Ridge State Senator Martin J. Golden announced a partnership between the U.S. Marine Corps League, Turning Point Brooklyn and his offices in which they will be collecting clothing items and toys for distribution to families in need of assistance during this holiday season.
The U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program annually collects new, unwrapped toys during the holiday season and distributes those toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in the community.
Additionally, Turning Point Brooklyn reaches tens of thousands of individuals a year throughout Brooklyn. They provide many effective programs and services designed to empower under-served, high-need individuals to overcome difficult circumstances and make positive changes in their lives. Through its efforts, Turning Point Brooklyn gives hope and strength for the most neglected members of our community.
“I am honored to partner with the U.S. Marine Corp Reserve and Turning Point Brooklyn this Holiday season to help bring some happiness and comfort to families in need here in Brooklyn,” said Golden. “Our community is extremely generous and always responds to help our neighbors who are less fortunate. I encourage everyone to please donate toys and clothing this Christmas season so we can deliver happiness,
goodwill and love to all who need our help.”
Golden said any residents with toys or clothes to donate can drop their donations off at his offices either at 7408 5th Avenue or 3604 Quentin Road, before December 11 to ensure that a person in need receives your help this holiday season.
