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Agency Testimony

Commissioner Ali details Rapid Response Legal Collaborative and schools coordination

New York City Council · May 28, 2026 · starts 4:33:30 · 1 min 7 sec

Ali explains the $3M increase in rapid response legal efforts for detained or at-risk immigrants, coordination with schools through Project Open Arms, and connections to legal resources and know-your-rights information for immigrant families.

Member of the Public - Faiza Ali

I will skip now to and talk a little bit about the Rapid Response Legal Collaborative.

Member of the Public - Faiza Ali

MOIA has significantly expanded our Rapid Response Legal Collaborative, which provides legal assistance to immigrant New Yorkers who are detained or at imminent risk of detention or deportation.

Member of the Public - Faiza Ali

To meet the growing demand, MOIA increased our investment in rapid response legal efforts by $3 million this fiscal year.

Member of the Public - Faiza Ali

MOIA also coordinates rapid response efforts in schools to ensure that immigrant families receive timely information and support when immigration enforcement activity occurs in or near their communities.

Member of the Public - Faiza Ali

It includes connecting schools, families, and community partners to legal resources, know your rights information, and direct services.

Member of the Public - Faiza Ali

Referrals are centralized through Project Open Arms, a dedicated team within New York City Public Schools that coordinates across public schools, including charter schools, District 75, and District 79.

Member of the Public - Faiza Ali

nine schools as well to support immigrant families and help ensure access to a full range of services.