In July 1997, New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani intervened in the case of approximately four dozen deaf-mute Mexican immigrants facing deportation and potential jail time. According to a report by Mary McGrory in the Washington Post on July 26, 1997, Giuliani took direct action to protect the group, providing them with lodging at a motel and shielding them from both the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and the NYPD.
A Personal Account of Intervention
The situation came to light through a request for assistance from Deputy Mayor Randy Levine, who at the time also served as President of the Yankees. Levine contacted an individual with knowledge of both the situation and the mayor’s needs. Giuliani, despite a complex personal relationship with the individual – described as one of “grudging respect” stemming from their time as classmates at Manhattan College – sought their help in calming the fears of the vulnerable group.
The individual spent two weeks with the group, providing support through familiar cultural touchstones. Soccer balls, jerseys from both Major League Soccer and the Mexican League, traditional meals, and visits from Mexican soccer stars were arranged. The effort aimed to ease the anxieties of those who were largely unable to hear or speak.
Broader Implications
The account highlights a moment of unexpected compassion from a Republican mayor, and draws a parallel to contemporary debates surrounding immigration. The author expresses strong feelings about the rhetoric often used to describe immigrants, citing terms like “rapist,” “murderers,” and “pedophiles” as tools to justify harmful actions.
The author concludes by referencing a recent situation involving Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and suggests a similar assertive stance toward federal authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the role of the NYPD in this situation?
According to the account, Mayor Giuliani directed the NYPD to surround the motel where the immigrants were staying, effectively keeping federal authorities at bay.
What was the author’s specific role in assisting the immigrants?
The author, being bilingual and having a recognized profile in the sport of soccer, was asked to calm the fears of the immigrants and provide them with a sense of familiarity and comfort.
What was the basis of the Mayor’s decision to intervene?
The Mayor’s motivation, as described, stemmed from a desire to defend “the defenseless” and demonstrate compassion, despite a potentially strained personal relationship with the individual who assisted.
How might similar situations be addressed by local leaders today, given evolving immigration policies and political climates?
