The Trump administration’s deportation campaign has transformed New York City. Once busy commercial corridors have fallen silent. Fewer people are visiting hospitals and health clinics in some neighborhoods. Some bar and restaurant owners say their business is slow.
Documented’s Special Projects Team decided to take a closer look at how some of the city’s immigrant neighborhoods are faring at this moment in an effort to understand our reporting can help New Yorkers to navigate these difficult times.
Elmhurst, Corona and Jackson Heights are Queens neighborhoods where up to 70% of people who live there were born abroad. We conducted a listening tour with residents of the area; speaking to more than two dozen residents; from community organizers and politicians to non-profit leaders and longtime residents. We attended a community board meeting; and gathered insights from people in all three neighborhoods to better understand the situation on the ground.
We spent the past three months reporting in the neighborhood and are now publishing a series of stories based on what we’ve heard on the ground. This project is a mix of long-form investigative articles, instructional guides with actionable information for residents in those neighborhoods on issues of deportation, and a series of local events and workshops that we’ve organized to bring important information to these communities directly.
One Corner. Seven Arrests. A Community Changed.
A quiet crisis is brewing in New York Streets, where immigrants are arrested in the neighborhoods they call home.
‘No One Will Save You’: How a Band of Volunteers is Helping Identify People Arrested by ICE
Members of a devoted Queens rapid response group have been able to identify six people who were taken from their neighborhoods.
Hands-On Help: A Printable Safety Planning Guide for Immigrants
For those at risk of ICE detention, preparation is crucial — so Documented made a printable guide to help immigrants plan ahead and protect themselves.
Three Strategies to Help Neighbors at Risk of Being Arrested by ICE
From organizing neighbors into a group chat, to helping them make plans in case they’re arrested by ICE — here’s how New Yorkers can help support our immigrant community.
Connecting with Immigrant Neighbors, One Hot Dog at a Time
These Queens organizers are putting on a monthly potluck series to bring new immigrants together with U.S. citizens.
Documented Special Projects: Max Siegelbaum, Lam Thuy Vo
Editors: Katrine Dermody, Carrie Melago, Max Siegelbaum
Reporters: Eileen Grench, Lam Thuy Vo
Spanish language producer: Rommel H. Ojeda
Engagement: Shayma Alshiri, Natalia Gutiérrez
