Make the Road New York, an organization with over 25,000 members that helps immigrant and working-class New Yorkers, said that during the pandemic immigrants were the essential workers who risked their lives to keep the country running but continue to be excluded from state programs and a pathway to citizenship.

“Undocumented essential workers are part of the backbone of this country and economy, and many put their lives on the line during the pandemic. Yet, they remain excluded from a path to citizenship and full protections,” said Yaritza Mendez, co-director of organizing at Make the Road New York.