New York City’s decision to relocate almost 2,000 migrants from a tent shelter to a high school due to an impending storm has sparked criticism from parents and others. The city, already struggling to accommodate the growing number of migrants seeking refuge, has faced backlash for its use of the remote and vulnerable tent shelter at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn.
Mayor Eric Adams announced the proactive relocation on Tuesday, citing expected winds of up to 70 mph and the need to ensure the well-being of those in their care. However, the decision to use a school as a temporary shelter drew ire from parents and community members.
A Questionable Shelter Location
Floyd Bennett Field has long been regarded as an unsuitable location for a shelter due to its remoteness and vulnerability to the elements. Critics argue that the city could have utilized the thousands of square feet of abandoned commercial property instead.
Images captured during the relocation showed migrants, including young children, being dropped off in yellow school buses amidst the rain. The move prompted James Madison High School to conduct classes remotely, causing frustration among parents.
Voices of Dissent
At a rally held at the school, parents expressed their frustration and deemed the situation “unacceptable.” State Assemblyman Michael Novakhov, who organized the rally, criticized the decision, stating that the school is not an appropriate place for migrants.
The relocation also attracted hate calls and a bomb threat, according to Zach Iscol, the commissioner of New York City Emergency Management. Iscol condemned these actions, calling them not only deplorable but also criminal offenses.
Concerns and Advocacy
Advocacy groups, including The Legal Aid Society and the Coalition for the Homeless, questioned the last-minute evacuation’s potential traumatic and disruptive impact on the migrant families. They urged the city to find alternative shelter options.
Councilwoman Inna Vernikov demanded that the city stop using public schools as shelters, emphasizing the concerns of the approximately 4,000 students at James Madison High School and the disruption caused to their education.
A Complex Issue
New York City has taken in around 170,000 asylum-seekers since April 2022 and currently cares for about 70,000 individuals, in addition to the homeless population. The city projects spending $4.7 billion to provide shelter, food, and services to asylum-seekers in fiscal year 2024.
Despite acknowledging that Floyd Bennett Field is not an ideal location for housing families with children, Iscol praised the city’s effort in making it work. He assured that alternative plans are in place in case of future evacuations and stated that returning migrants to the tent shelter was the priority after receiving the all-clear from the National Weather Service.