Press Releases
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement opposing the Trump Administration's decision to roll back Deferred Actions for Childhood Arrivals (DACA):
"The President previously said that Dreamers have little reason to worry because he has a ‘big heart.' Today's decision belies that statement and makes clear the callous and hateful ideology that is driving this Administration's policies.
Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding racist graffiti that was found at Beth Hachasidim DePolen Synagogue and on an Upper West Side Methodist church:
"Acts of hate have no place anywhere in our society and we must always be unified in condemning them. Given recent national events it is more important than ever that we stand united in sending a clear message that there is no room for hate in our City. I urge the New York Police Department to swiftly investigate these appalling crimes.
Washington, DC – Through the annual appropriations process, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) has secured language directing the Department of Education, to work closely with Puerto Rico to identify and address technical assistance needs. This crucial step will enhance the federal government's role in assisting the people of Puerto Rico. Velázquez was instrumental in urging the Department of Education to provide technical assistance to Puerto Rico during this year's appropriations process.
Bill Dedicates Additional $50 Million to Tackle Bias-Based Attacks
Washington, DC – Following the violent rally by white supremacists in Charlottesville this weekend, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) has authored new legislation that would dedicate additional federal resources to combat the growing prevalence of hate crimes around the country. The "Hate Crimes Victim Assistance Act," would authorize an additional $50 million in federal funds to help prevent, track and prosecute hate crimes and assist victims.
Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding reports of racist vandalism in Cypress Hills Cemetery:
"That anyone would desecrate graves is beyond reprehensible. The fact that this vandalism was biased-base makes this crime even more outrageous.
"Acts of hate never have any place in our city or our nation. However, coming so closely after the events of Charlottesville, these crimes are particularly painful and disturbing. All of us must speak with one voice in condemning bigotry of any kind.
Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) announced federal grant funding to expand dental care for patients living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). These grants, sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) were awarded to two local Brooklyn health centers, NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull and Wyckoff Heights Medical Center.
Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding events in Charlottesville:
"When President Trump refuses to identify those responsible for the horrors in Charlottesville - namely white supremacists - he emboldens them. All of us must stand together in condemning bigotry and violence without hesitation or equivocation.
Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) and Rep. Jenniffer González-Colon, the Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, have written the head of the Small Business Administration (SBA) expressing the need to expand contracting opportunities for small businesses in Puerto Rico. Amidst the turmoil of bankruptcy, the letter urges SBA to help small firms operating there to participate in the federal marketplace.
Washington, DC –Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the resignation of New York State Senator Daniel Squadron:
"Since his election in 2008, Daniel Squadron has been a stalwart champion of residents of Brooklyn and the Lower East Side, working tirelessly to improve New Yorkers' lives.