CAIR-NY Condemns ‘Unethical’ ICE Raids in Chinatown
(NEW YORK, NY, 10/23/25) — The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned a series of what it called “unethical” raids carried out by federal immigration agents targeting vendors and community members in Manhattan’s Chinatown.
According to news reports, on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 21, 2025, federal officials conducted enforcement operations along Canal Street, raising concern and fear among residents, workers, and immigrant communities who already fear increased profiling and deportations. Four US citizens and nine immigrants from Africa were arrested.
SEE: Federal agents carry out joint ICE crackdown on Canal Street in Chinatown
SEE: 4 US citizens arrested during ICE crackdown on NYC's Canal Street, congressman says
In a statement, Afaf Nasher, Esq., CAIR-NY Executive Director, said:
“These raids lead to fear and trauma in immigrant communities who are simply trying to survive. Targeting vulnerable communities under the guise of enforcement undermines public trust, weakens community safety, and contributes to xenophobia. No one should have to fear being snatched away from their family. CAIR-NY stands in full solidarity with Chinatown and all New Yorkers impacted by these unethical raids.”
CAIR- NY urges elected officials and New Yorkers to reject fear-based enforcement and push for policies protecting immigrant communities from harm and discrimination.
CAIR-NY's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT:
Afaf Nasher, Esq., CAIR-NY Executive Director, CAIR-NY, 917-669-4006, anasher@cair.com;
CAIR-NY Communications Team, comms@ny.cair.com