Raga joins rally demanding immigrant protections

ALBANY, NEW YORK - Assemblymember Steven Raga joined fellow elected officials, union members, immigrant justice advocates, and community supporters at the State Capitol and in rallies across the streets, calling for the immediate passage of the New York for All Act.

Raga, who represents a predominantly immigrant and working-class district in Queens, delivered a strong message against federal immigration enforcement policies, particularly those tied to mass deportation efforts.

“I refuse to stand by while families are terrorized,” Raga said, criticizing what he described as a system built on fear, detention, surveillance, and local government cooperation.

The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit state and local agencies from working with federal immigration authorities, including limiting information-sharing with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and preventing the use of public resources for deportation efforts.

Supporters say the measure is critical in protecting immigrant communities across New York, especially amid growing concerns over federal immigration crackdowns.

Raga emphasized that the final days of budget negotiations represent a defining moment for state leaders.

“These final budget days are a test of who we are,” he said. “We must stand with our neighbors, defend our communities, and protect the right to live without fear.”

Advocates are urging lawmakers to act swiftly, framing the bill as a necessary step to ensure New York does not participate in federal deportation policies.