Brandon Holmes says his work as the co-interim field director for the New York Civil Liberties Union is challenging but rewarding, especially during this year’s migrant crisis.

“If it's not for the voice of the experiences of those communities, a lot of our work doesn't have the grit and the teeth and isn't humanized in the way that we need it to be to achieve that change immediately," he said.

It is still frustrating to see public perception about migrants be distorted, he said.

A recent Siena poll showed 46% of New Yorkers say the last 20 years of migrants resettling here is a burden. But Holmes says there are a lot of misconceptions.

“Just because someone else is receiving resources doesn't mean that you can't get access to those same resources or supports in your community and for your family," Holmes said. "You have every right to and you should fight for that right. And just because someone else gets that right doesn't mean it takes away or infringes on your right.”

Immigrants also play a big role in the state’s workforce, most critically on farms and in the hospitality industry. The 2018 U.S. Census shows they make up 28% of New York’s workers.

Holmes said they are hard-working people who want security and freedom, like all Americans.

“They're just here to take our resources," he said, referencing the narrative that is sometimes applied to migrants arriving. "They're there to take, take, take from us. And people don't acknowledge how much immigrant communities give and have given to America, not just New York, but America at large.”

Holmes said action on common-sense immigration reform is needed on the local, state and federal levels, so those who come here seeking a better life can find it.

“[We are] calling on Gov. Hochul to evaluate state-operated facilities that would be able to address some of the housing needs and concerns without displacing other New Yorkers," he said. "We also need her to increase the funding that is being made available for these relocation efforts.”