Albany, NY – New York State Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero (D, WFP) presented a check for $10,000 to the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) to support its rapid response preparedness and community engagement initiatives that aid immigrant communities in the Capital Region.

These initiatives include programs such as direct financial assistance to families impacted by detention, travel accompaniment to immigrant court hearings and detention facilities, professional translation and interpretation services to ensure language access for all, and ‘Know Your Rights Education’ to help our community stay educated and informed. With Assemblymember Romero’s support, NYIC will be able to continue to provide these vital services in the Capital Region and expand their community outreach efforts to advance their mission of protecting and promoting immigrant rights. 

Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero:
“New York Immigration Coalition has consistently done outstanding work here in the Capital Region and throughout the state to support the immigrants and refugees that help our communities thrive. At a time when our friends and neighbors are being egregiously attacked and endangered by the federal government, I am proud to make this necessary investment in our immigrant communities. I look forward to seeing the continued positive impact NYIC will make in Albany and beyond with the vital programming and services they provide for those in need.” 

Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy:

“I want to thank Assemblywoman Gabriella Romero for her leadership in supporting the New York Immigration Coalition of the Capital Region. The NYIC has been an essential partner in empowering immigrant communities and ensuring our neighbors know their rights. This investment will strengthen their ability to reach more families, leaders, and stakeholders with critical information. At a time when so many are facing uncertainty, this funding reaffirms our shared commitment to dignity, opportunity, and justice for all.” 

Albany County Legislator Susan Pedo:

“When the federal government targets our immigrant neighbors, New York State and local governments stand strong in our support for them. This funding comes at a critical time to enhance the vital work of RISSE and the New York Immigration Coalition. We thank them for their unceasing efforts and Assemblymember Romero for securing state funding to expand their work.”

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan:

“Albany is not only a welcoming city but one where we truly help support our refugee and migrant communities, and this grant is yet another example of that commitment. We are living in unprecedented times where our federal government is targeting those very neighbors, and it’s great to see a program where state government is working to lift up our immigrant refugee community instead of tearing it down. Thank you to Assemblymember Romero for leveraging our tax dollars to help support our neighbors who also pay taxes and work hard to make our city vibrant and diverse.” 

Albany Common Councilmember Owusu Anane:

“Immigrant communities in Albany, its surrounding communities, and throughout the country are facing the most hostile federal administration in generations. However, thanks to organizations like the New York Immigrant Coalition, these communities are not alone. I am appreciative of Assemblymember Romero in providing the New York Immigration Coalition these funds so that they may continue their vital work in advocating for immigrant communities across New York.”

Albany School Board Member Austin Wolfgang: 

“When ICE is spotted in Albany, community activity, event participation, and, yes, school attendance all drops. The fear and uncertainty around ICE is literally causing our kids to miss out on an education. That’s unacceptable and un-American. These ‘know your rights’ presentations are crucial in making sure everyone, especially our kids and young people, know the rights afforded under the constitution to every person when interacting with law enforcement. I am proud to stand alongside Assemblymember Romero to help announce this funding and say Albany supports our immigrant community.”

RISSE Executive Director Daniel Butterworth:

"RISSE is a proud partner of the New York Immigration Coalition as we work together to uplift and empower our immigrant neighbors in the Capital Region. This recognition by Assembly Member Romero is a testament to NYIC's ongoing efforts to advocate for community members in need, and ensure that our community and our state remain welcoming and supportive of newcomers who come here seeking safety and opportunity. The funding provided today will help many local families impacted by the egregiously cruel and inhumane immigration policies of the federal government. A big thank you to AM Romero for her steadfast support for refugees and immigrants in the Capital Region and for continuing to raise awareness of the critical and urgent needs in our community."