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New York City Mayor Eric Adams faced backlash from immigration activists following his meeting with Tom Homan, the incoming border czar appointed by President-elect Donald Trump. Activists accused Adams of undermining the city’s sanctuary policies by engaging with Homan, who is known for his strict immigration stance.
Murad Awawdeh, president of the New York Immigration Coalition, criticized Adams for what he described as “collaborating” with Homan. He stated, “It’s despicable that Mayor Adams continues to shirk his responsibilities to uphold New York City’s existing policies and values as a sanctuary city” .
The meeting took place Thursday afternoon, where Adams expressed his intention to discuss cooperation on deporting violent criminals. Homan has emphasized that public safety threats will be the focus of the anticipated mass deportation efforts under the Trump administration
Adams remarked last week, “I’m not going to be warring with this administration; I’m going to be working with this administration.” He acknowledged Trump as the president-elect and expressed a desire to find common ground. “I believe I have some ideas that could deal with this issue,” he added, while also asserting that law-abiding immigrants should not be subjected to nighttime arrests .
Despite facing criticism from some quarters, Adams stated he would prioritize protecting New Yorkers. “Well, cancel me,” he told critics. “If you come into this city and think you’re going to harm innocent New Yorkers and asylum seekers, this is not the mayor you want” [3][11].
Activists remain concerned about the implications of Homan’s policies. Awawdeh warned that under Homan’s leadership, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) could exacerbate divisions within communities by targeting immigrants. He cited past incidents where ICE actions led to violence in neighborhoods.
Former Democratic National Committee vice chair Michael Blake also condemned the meeting, labeling it “wrong” and emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue in city governance.
Homan, who previously served as acting director of ICE, has indicated his willingness to work with Adams to enhance community safety. He stated, “I’m willing to meet with anybody to help make their communities safer,” underscoring a commitment to prioritize public safety threats in immigration enforcement.
The meeting comes as New York City grapples with a growing migrant population and ongoing debates about its sanctuary city status amid federal immigration policies.
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