Suffolk County Residents Rally Against Immigration Policy Proposals

Suffolk County recently became a focal point for discussions surrounding immigration policies, particularly those related to the potential sheltering of undocumented migrants. Multiple rallies, held at various locations, provided a platform for residents to express their concerns about recent statements made by New York City Mayor Eric Adams regarding the relocation of illegal immigrants to different New York counties.

Adams recently cautioned that "the ongoing migrant crisis will destroy NYC," a statement that struck a chord with rally organizers. Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, a staunch ally of Mayor Eric Adams, has introduced legislation to prevent local governments from using emergency orders to block housing for asylum seekers in their counties. One of the key organizers of these rallies, Susan W. Ciarfello, emphasized their group's stance on the issue.

She stated, "We firmly believe that anyone crossing our border illegally should be promptly returned. Our concern is that a mass influx of illegal migrants would strain our financial resources, and we also fear that there may be criminals among them who could jeopardize the safety of our American citizens." In response to a recent statement made by Mayor Adams, Susan expressed her group's views, saying, "Mayor Adams has finally admitted on camera to the truth about failed Democrat policies.

The situation in New York is becoming increasingly challenging, and the consequences of mass illegal migration are becoming more apparent. We also observe Mayor Adams attempting to shift blame elsewhere." Susan firmly believes that the solution to these challenges lies in electing conservative Republicans to power in 2023 and beyond. She stressed, "The time has come to put an end to this madness." Another event organizer, who wanted to be called Elaine from Long Island, shared her perspective on Mayor Adams' statements.

She underscored, "Our presence here today is a direct response to Eric Adams' suggestion that 'we should ship these migrants out to Long Island.'" She recounted her participation in an event outside Gracie Mansion in Manhattan, where her concerns found echoes in the sentiments expressed by figures like Curtis Sliwa and others. "We are all residents here, shouldering substantial taxes in our quest for safety, cleanliness, and freedom from the scourge of drugs and crime.

We are wary of importing these challenges into our cherished community," she emphasized. Elaine stressed the importance of Long Island residents' safety and quality of life in their neighborhoods, expressing concerns about the potential ramifications of policies advocated by Adams and Hochul. In response to the argument that adequate funds are available to address the needs of illegal immigrants, Elaine challenged, "Show me the money! Why are our roads riddled with potholes?

Take the Northern State Parkway, for example; it has become nearly impassable. Our roadways now resemble those of underdeveloped nations." She contended that taxpayer resources should be directed toward resolving pressing local issues before accommodating the needs of illegal immigrants. Elaine clarified that her concerns were not rooted in opposition to immigration itself. She pointed out, "We hold deep respect for immigrants, as they form the very foundation upon which this nation was built. My great-great-grandparents were immigrants who fled the Holocaust, and I bear no ill will towards anyone.

However, it is essential to recognize that upon their arrival, they did not receive cell phones, cars, houses, driver's licenses, stipends, or hotel accommodations." Moreover, she highlighted what she viewed as more pressing challenges that deserve priority over-allocating resources to the needs of illegal immigrants. She asked, "Have you visited Sunken Meadow Beach lately? The conditions there are deplorable. Our highways are in dire need of repaving. In the high schools where my children attend, air conditioning remains a luxury. Why not prioritize addressing these issues first?"

When questioned about the exodus of residents from New York during Governor Hochul's administration due to the high cost of living and taxes, Elaine lamented, "We have not witnessed effective governance in the state of New York for many years. The issue transcends any single individual." She critiqued Governor Hochul's statements during her inauguration and a subsequent quote in which she implied that dissatisfied individuals should leave New York.

Elaine recounted a personal narrative: "My brother relocated, my sister followed suit, my other brother departed, and my aunt also left the state. Consequently, I now find myself on Long Island without family due to policies implemented." A fellow rally attendee, Tom, echoed the sentiments of the organizers and provided further insights into the frustrations of Long Island residents. He asserted, "Politicians like Hochul and Adams are disconnected from the realities on the ground.

We are the ones who call this place home, grappling with the escalating cost of living and burdensome taxes. While they make lofty pronouncements, it is we who must bear the consequences." Tom observed numerous families leaving New York due to financial strain. "They found themselves unable to meet tax obligations or manage high mortgage rates, leading them to seek refuge elsewhere," he explained. He voiced dissatisfaction with Governor Hochul's approach to addressing residents' concerns.

The rallies concluded with an earnest plea to elected officials not to divert resources from veterans' programs or schools and to prioritize the well-being of Long Island's taxpayers first. The gatherings highlighted the deeply rooted concerns of residents and their determination to be heard on immigration issues impacting their community.