I'm writing as a concerned citizen and as a testament to the American Dream, having migrated from Venezuela and becoming a U.S. citizen through a long, legal and bureaucratic processes. 

Like millions of immigrants in the U.S., my journey to American citizenship, from my arrival in 1989 to obtaining citizenship in 2003, exemplifies the potential and dedication of immigrants who follow legal pathways.

Despite following every rule, my parents and brother have been stuck in the legal limbo of immigration since 2003, waiting for their residency cards. And I'm not the only one: thousands and thousands of legal immigrants are in the same situation. This stark contrast between my family's long wait and that of others, and the immediate threat posed by recent Venezuelan migrants involved in violent assaults—apparently without facing consequences—highlights a deep injustice within our immigration system. 

The rise of criminal gangs among asylum seekers in New York City has compromised our community's safety and the integrity of our immigration system, damaging the image of diligent Venezuelans and Hispanics across the U.S.

We urgently need a comprehensive and bipartisan approach to address this issue, including:

1. Developing and implementing a strategic plan to combat the influence and activities of international criminal organizations like the Tren de Aragua in the U.S., especially in NYC.
2. Balancing our immigration policies to ensure they are secure against threats and compassionate towards law-abiding immigrants.
3. Accelerating the immigration process for families that have been in bureaucratic limbo for years, in recognition of their patience and adherence to legal pathways.
4. Taking decisive legal action against illegal immigrants involved in violent incidents, ensuring they face the consequences of their actions.

This approach requires collaboration at the federal, state, and municipal levels, maximizing our law enforcement and immigration resources to ensure the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers.

Why is this important?

New York City's safety and the integrity of our immigration system are jeopardized by Venezuelan criminal gangs, threatening both public safety and the positive contributions of immigrants. It's vital to address this to keep NYC a place of hope, where law and immigrant contributions thrive.

This situation underscores the need for immigration policies that balance security with immigrants' contributions. Action is essential to uphold justice, safety, and American values of fairness and opportunity.

The Tren de Aragua gang, originating from Venezuela and now active in NYC, symbolizes the challenge of fighting international crime. Led by "Niño Guerrero," this gang's influence and violent activities, including assaults on NYPD officers, highlight the urgent need for action against such criminal networks.

These incidents strain community relations and challenge the perception of authority, sparking debates on immigration policy and public safety. The actions of a few risk unfairly tarnishing the reputation of many Venezuelans and Hispanics, potentially affecting voter sentiment.

The campaign advocates for justice, fairness, and an immigration system that doesn't let the crimes of a few overshadow the contributions of many. It calls for policies that ensure public safety while respecting immigrant rights, urging leaders to combat the violence threatening our communities.

Supporting this campaign is a stand for a future where safety and immigrant dignity coexist, demanding change that reflects our values and aspirations for a safer, more inclusive society.