A number of high-profile detractors spoke out this weekend regarding Arizona’s controversial new immigration law — which would make being an undocumented immigrant in the state a crime, and allow police officers to ask anyone “suspected of being an illegal immigrant” for documentation. Reverend Al Sharpton and New York–area Hispanic leaders are planning a protest involving “civil disobedience” when the bill — which President Obama has referred to as “misguided” — goes into effect in late July or August.
Senator Chuck Schumer and Mayor Bloomberg also expressed their disapproval. “We do need comprehensive immigration law in this country but not like this,” Schumer said, “This law is mean-spirited and I’m opposed to it.” And leave it to Bloomberg to point out the potential financial repercussions: “As a country, America will be badly hurt if more states follow Arizona’s lead. Foreign investment and tourism are critical to our national economy, and this new law sends exactly the wrong message to international companies and travelers.” A nationwide rally is scheduled for May 1, with the New York City protest to take place in Foley Square.
New York politicians rip into Arizona immigration law, call it ‘un-American’ [NYDN]
