May Update: Due Process, Fairness and Transparency Matter

This is my latest newsletter to constituents.

Credit: Annette Dragon

As Donald Trump rolls out extreme anti-immigrant policies and threatens our most vulnerable neighbors, I’ve been outspoken and active in resisting these dangerous actions. I joined community members at a Day of Action rally and at a protest opposing the visit of border czar Tom Homan, whose cruel deportation tactics have devastated families. These policies not only tear families apart — they undermine basic constitutional principles like due process and equal protection under the law. I am committed to ensuring Monroe County remains a community that stands up against hate, dehumanization, and attacks on our most fundamental rights.

Holding Avelo Airlines Accountable

I am disturbed that Avelo Airlines is profiting from harmful deportation flights. Many of these deportations are essentially lawless — people, including children, have been denied due process and basic constitutional protections. I was the first local elected official to speak out and called on others in government to join me in demanding that Avelo end its collaboration with ICE. These flights do not reflect our community’s values. I will continue using my voice to hold Avelo accountable and to stand with immigrants and advocates fighting to stop these inhumane practices.

Pushing for Transparency in Surveillance Technology

As our county considers new investments in public safety tools like license plate readers, I believe residents deserve to know when powerful surveillance technologies are being purchased and deployed. I support the use of license plate readers in this case because I believe safeguards are in place to protect privacy and ensure appropriate use. However, I am concerned that many other technologies — including software with capabilities like facial recognition or behavioral analysis — can be quietly acquired without public scrutiny or legislative approval. That’s why next week I will introduce legislation requiring disclosure to the Legislature of any planned purchase of surveillance technology above a certain threshold. The public has a right to know how tax dollars are being spent and how these systems may impact privacy and civil liberties.

Fighting for Housing Access

I recently joined advocates and fellow elected officials at a rally in Rochester to call on the state to pass the Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP), which would help low-income and homeless New Yorkers afford safe, stable housing. I also submitted a memorializing resolution in the Monroe County Legislature urging state leaders to fund the program. I’m thrilled that our collective advocacy paid off — HAVP now appears to be included in the state budget. This is a major victory for tenants and families struggling to stay housed, and I will continue pushing to make sure the program is implemented effectively and reaches those who need it most.

Legislation Withdrawn

I’m disappointed to share that I withdrew my proposal to stop the use of closed-door party caucuses to do the people's business. I strongly believe the public deserves more transparency from their elected officials, but without enough support from my colleagues to advance the legislation, I made the difficult decision to pull it. I remain committed to fighting for open and accountable government — and I will continue pushing for reforms that bring more sunlight to county business.

Youth Awards

I was honored to present a Young Citizen of Excellence Award to Shaun Nelms of Eastridge High School. Learn more about the awards here.

Thank you for staying engaged — together, we can keep fighting for justice, transparency, and compassion in Monroe County.