On November 29, 2025, immigration activists in New York City took a peaceful stand near Canal Street, blocking vans believed to be used by ICE. They chanted “ICE out of New York” and demanded answers following recent immigration raids that had already shaken the Chinatown community.

Instead of being heard, they were arrested.

Multiple protesters were taken into custody by NYPD for refusing to disperse, despite exercising their First Amendment rights in a city that claims to be a sanctuary for immigrants. Some of these same protesters were reacting to a prior incident where four U.S. citizens were detained for nearly 24 hours without federal charges during a previous ICE operation in the same area.

This is not just about one protest. It is about a dangerous pattern of punishing dissent.

We are calling on Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch to:

• Drop all charges against protesters arrested on November 29 during the ICE-related demonstration near Chinatown
• Publicly affirm that New Yorkers have the right to protest federal enforcement actions that take place in their communities
• Establish clear NYPD guidance limiting local cooperation with federal agencies during protests and demonstrations

When local law enforcement arrests peaceful protesters responding to federal raids, it sends a chilling message that standing up for your neighbors may come with punishment. That message is unacceptable in a city where immigrants and allies have long fought together for dignity, safety, and human rights.

We know that community-led protest is a cornerstone of justice. We also know that real sanctuary cannot exist without the freedom to speak out against injustice. If New York City is to remain a sanctuary city in more than name, then it must protect, not punish, those who speak up.

Sign this petition to demand that NYC respect the right to protest and drop all charges against those arrested while standing up for immigrant communities.

Photo Credit: ABC