NYYRC Bronx Caucus & Local Candidates Protest Proposed Migrant Shelter In The Bronx

Gonzalo Duran
Published on January 23, 2025, 6:00 pm
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In a fierce demonstration on the cold streets of the Bronx, members of the New York Young Republican Club (NYYRC) Bronx Caucus, alongside community activists, political candidates, and residents, gathered today to protest the opening of a proposed men’s migrant shelter next month in the heart of their borough. The rally, held at 12:00 p.m. in front of the South Bronx office of New York City Council Member Diana Ayala, at 214 Saint Ann’s Avenue, marked the latest chapter in a growing community movement concerned about the shelter’s impact.

The proposed facility, which Ayala backs, has drawn intense criticism from various corners of the Bronx. Many protestors are worried about rising crime rates and the overwhelming strain on already overstretched social services. Their chants made their message clear: “Put the Bronx First”, “Prioritize Our Veterans and Residents”, and “No More Shelters—We’re Full”.

At the heart of the protest, Christopher Reid, Chairman of the NYYRC Bronx Caucus, rallied the crowd of over 20 protesters, their voices amplified through a bullhorn. Standing firmly against the proposed shelter, Reid delivered a sharp message about the community’s needs.

“I am here for the same reason everyone else is here,” Reid declared. “That is to put the Bronx first. People like Diana Ayala have prioritized greed over community, and that is unacceptable. The Bronx Caucus is here to fight for the people who live here, and we will continue to ensure the Bronx is always put first.”

As the cold temperatures pierced the air, protestors voiced concerns not just about the shelter, but about the broader challenges facing the borough. Among the most pressing issues raised was the need to prioritize services for local residents, particularly veterans and others in dire need of assistance, before focusing on migrants. As one protester put it: “Our schools are overcrowded, our hospitals are overburdened, and our streets are suffering from neglect. How much more can we take?”

Tyreek Goodman, a conservative candidate for NYC Council District 8, echoed these sentiments. Addressing the crowd, Goodman stated: “The issue is not the migrants or asylum seekers; the issue is the people we elect to office who are misusing our city funds. You cannot say you are putting people first when the ones who are here asking for help are being ignored. We have potholes, vacant buildings popping up everywhere, but the shelters are filling up instead. It’s time to put the Bronx residents first. You cannot continue putting people in front of those who have been waiting for help.”

Goodman’s remarks touched on a key theme: the belief that the city’s resources are being stretched too thin to properly support both new arrivals and existing residents. Protestors, including local candidates, community leaders, and activists, all voiced the same message: put the Bronx first.

Beyond issues of migration and sheltering, the rally also underscored the need for greater civic engagement. Goodman pointed out that young people—specifically 16-year-olds—could join local community boards, register to vote, and eventually run for office once they turned 18. “If you want change, you have the power to make it,” he said.

A representative from the Bronx Conservative Party also reminded those in attendance that the 2025 elections are fast approaching. “If you want your voice to be heard from a legislative perspective, running for office is always an option,” they said.

Other notable speakers included Kwasi Baryeh, Edwinna Herrera, and Justin Baird, all of whom passionately voiced their concerns about the shelter plan and the broader political climate in the Bronx.

At the time of publication, Councilwoman Diana Ayala’s office was contacted for comment but did not respond. If a response is received, this article will be updated accordingly.

As the protestors dispersed, the message was clear: the Bronx residents want to be heard, and they are ready to fight for their community’s future. With the 2025 elections on the horizon, this protest may only be the beginning of a much larger political battle ahead.

Gonzalo Duran
As a seasoned professional in both the military and civic realms, Gonzalo Duran brings a wealth of experience to his role as the Chief Executive Officer of Devil Dog USA Incorporated. A former United States Marine Sergeant, he not only leads a non-profit dedicated to supporting Veterans’ reintegration but also holds key positions in Bronx County’s political landscape, including Vice Chairman of the Bronx County Conservative Party and (C) District Leader for the 79th Assembly District. With over a decade as a CEO, Gonzalo is a multifaceted contributor to his community, excelling as an access producer, talk show host, columnist, chaplain, and advocate.