In the midst of New York City’s ongoing political and immigration debates, Rev. Raymond Rivera, President of the Latino Pastoral Action Center, has issued a powerful call for justice, compassion, and comprehensive immigration reform.

A spiritual leader in the city for over five decades, Rivera is urging for a balanced approach—one that ensures public safety while protecting law-abiding immigrants from indiscriminate crackdowns.

Addressing the political turmoil surrounding Mayor Eric Adams, Rivera emphasized that the people, not political pressure, should decide his leadership.

“I have publicly advocated for our mayor to continue his tenure until the upcoming primary, allowing the citizens to determine his leadership,” he stated, urging for stability as the city navigates critical challenges.

Rivera made it clear that while violent, repeat offenders who are undocumented should not remain in the country, indiscriminate immigration enforcement is unjust.

“I stand in unwavering opposition to indiscriminate immigration crackdowns targeting law-abiding, tax-paying, and hardworking immigrants—many of whom are devoted members of the Body of Christ and integral to our communities.”

He pointed out that many immigrants have fled economic hardship, religious persecution, and political oppression, seeking nothing more than an opportunity to build a better life. Dreamers, asylum seekers, and others awaiting court hearings deserve due process, not immediate deportation, he argued.

“Arresting and deporting them without due process is an injustice that contradicts our nation’s foundational principles,” Rivera asserted.

Rivera’s advocacy is deeply rooted in his faith, drawing inspiration from Scripture’s call to welcome the stranger.

“The Gospel of Jesus Christ calls us to transformative action, urging us to welcome the stranger and treat them as our own,” he emphasized, highlighting the Christian duty to challenge unjust systems.

Beyond immediate concerns, Rivera called for legislative solutions that create a just and legal pathway to citizenship. He also criticized cuts to global humanitarian aid, which have historically supported vulnerable populations.

“These initiatives, backed by bipartisan administrations, reflect the positive role our government plays in serving the poor worldwide,” he said, urging for continued investment in programs that provide aid to refugees and displaced communities.

Rivera made a passionate plea to the Church and interfaith communities to unite in prayer and action.

“I humbly call upon the Church of Jesus Christ and our interfaith community to unite in prayer for our city. Let us seek divine guidance, wisdom, and strength to navigate this crisis together.”

As New York City grapples with political uncertainty and ongoing immigration challenges, Rivera’s message is clear: Justice and compassion must guide the way forward, not fear and indiscriminate enforcement.