NYCLU Condemns President Biden’s Asylum Ban

NEW YORK, NY – In response to President Biden’s issuance of an executive order to severely restrict people’s legal right to seek asylum in the United States today, the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) issued the following statement from Executive Director Donna Lieberman: 

“This unlawful, anti-immigrant executive order flies in the face of New York values of community, justice, and humanity — the ACLU will challenge it in court.

“New York is home to one of the largest and most diverse immigrant populations in the country. For generations, our state has been a beacon of refuge for those fleeing persecution or seeking a better life for themselves and loved ones. That hope is something we all share, and the promise of refuge has made New York, and the United States, what it is today.

“Denying asylum to the vast majority of people arriving at the U.S. border will put thousands of lives at risk and fuel discrimination against the millions of immigrants that call New York home. Our state’s communities and economy will suffer, and thousands of people will no longer be able to reunite with their families, friends, and loved ones.

“The well-being, success, and contributions of migrants are critical to the future of our nation and New York.”