Contact: Brian Pacheco, Safe Horizon’s Director of Public Relations
t. 212-577-7709 | c. 646-306-1136 | e. Brian.Pacheco@safehorizon.org
LARGEST VICTIM SERVICES AGENCY IN THE U.S., SAFE HORIZON, RESPONDS TO RECENT ICE RAIDS
February 14, 2017 (New York, NY) – Safe Horizon’s Vice President of Government Affairs, Michael Polenberg, made the following statement on the recent raids by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) across the nation over the past week.
“Safe Horizon loudly condemns the widespread arrests of immigrants nationwide, and here in New York City, by federal agents over the last week. Tearing families apart will not make our communities safer. In fact, in response to these ICE raids, innocent immigrant victims of crime and abuse may become even more fearful of reaching out for help. For immigrants who are victims of domestic violence, they may feel forced to choose between staying in a violent and abusive relationship or risk detainment and deportation if they choose to seek help. This is a choice no one should have to make.
“Additionally, ICE raids can deter victims from getting the help they need. Immigrants seeking asylum from the threat of violence or death in their home countries may be scared to seek the legal assistance to which they are entitled and can keep them, and their loved ones, safe. Our country is strongest when everyone – regardless of immigration status – feels safe to ask for help, whether by seeking medical care, legal assistance or calling the police.
“Safe Horizon stands with immigrants today and forever.”
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About Safe Horizon
Safe Horizon empowers victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking to move from crisis to confidence – touching the lives of 250,000 New Yorkers every year.