Image Credit: Photo by Nataraj Munoli
Trenton, NJ—Over 100 advocacy organizations have united to call on New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to strengthen protections for immigrants in the state. Ahead of his second-to-last State of the State address, these groups have intensified their campaign, urging decisive action to safeguard immigrant communities facing heightened federal enforcement pressures.
Key Facts:
- Advocates are pushing for expanding immigrant protections, including limiting state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
- Concerns have grown over federal policies and threats targeting undocumented individuals, prompting demands for proactive state-level measures.
- The coalition includes prominent organizations like the ACLU-NJ and the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice.
Advocacy groups have emphasized the importance of advancing legislation to restrict the state’s entanglement with federal immigration authorities. In particular, they seek the implementation of policies that bar local agencies from sharing information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), echoing actions already taken by other progressive states.
The groups have also demanded stronger workplace protections for immigrant laborers and increased access to legal representation for individuals in immigration proceedings. They argue that these measures will protect vulnerable communities and strengthen the state's economy and social fabric.
The advocacy efforts come as federal enforcement actions against undocumented immigrants intensify. New Jersey, home to a significant immigrant population, is under increasing pressure to safeguard its residents from policies that may lead to detentions and deportations.
Image Credit: NJ.gov
"New Jersey must lead by example and create a model for immigrant inclusion and safety, especially during uncertain federal times," said Amy Torres, Executive Director of the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice.
The coalition plans to maintain its advocacy momentum throughout 2025, urging the state legislature and Governor Murphy to prioritize immigrant rights in the final years of his administration.