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WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko today released the following statement on the removal of residents from a Super 8 Motel in Rotterdam:

“It’s never acceptable to kick families and long-term residents to the curb with mere hours’ notice. The callousness shown towards these individuals by Mayor Adams and the motel is beyond belief. This is not about migrants — it’s about basic human decency and respect.

“That we were only informed of these actions by the Mayor’s office after the fact makes these actions even more egregious. We were assured communication, collaboration, and support to our communities throughout this process of relocating migrants. So far, that promise has been blatantly ignored.

“Let me be clear — we are a welcoming state and a welcoming region. We are more than capable of welcoming asylum seekers with open arms and hearts without banishing current residents from their homes.

“This issue will never be resolved without a compassionate, coordinated and holistic response that both provides critical resources for our communities while addressing the needs of asylum seekers who are pursuing a better life for themselves and their loved ones.”