Gov. Cuomo announced new measures which aim to protect the rights of immigrants in the Hudson Valley and across the state who are targeted by ICE and the federal government.

On Thursday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced two new measures which aim to help and protect immigrants targeted by ICE and the federal government's anti-immigrant policies in their communities.

Governor Cuomo's first-in-the-nation Liberty Defense Project selected regional providers and attorneys for a Rapid Response Program to respond to unanticipated ICE enforcement actions, targeted raids and sweeps statewide, officials say.

Additionally, Governor Cuomo's Office for New Americans has selected 21 new Opportunity Centers across the state to deliver essential services, education and guidance to immigrants in their own neighborhoods - including the Southern Tier for the first time, according to the Governor's Office.

"While the federal government continues to threaten our immigrant communities, New York will not stop fighting to protect the rights of new Americans," Cuomo said. "With this new program and expanded opportunity centers, we are ensuring vulnerable immigrants who are unfairly targeted by ICE have the legal assistance and services they need to achieve their full potential in New York."

Through a competitive bidding process, seven providers were selected to dedicate at least 15 LDP attorneys to assist immigrants in urgent, time-sensitive legal jeopardy in every region of the state.

In the Hudson Valley, Neighbors Link, providing two dedicated attorneys, was selected.

The attorneys will provide legal support and direct representation for separated and/or unaccompanied children and their families. They will also conduct Know Your Rights workshops/trainings in particularly hard-to-reach communities such as farms, rural areas and in a variety of languages addressing: what to do when approached by ICE; how to create a family preparedness plan; how to create a financial plan; how to contact your consulate; and what to do if you or a family member is detained.

"New York is committed to ensuring protections and services for immigrant children and families," Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul said. "The new measures included in the Liberty Defense Project will give immigrants access to legal services and ensure proper representation. While the federal government continues to attack immigrants' rights, we embrace our diversity and rich culture that makes New York the Empire State."

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