NYC's Top Education Lawyer Backs Migrant Aid, Sparking Debate

Elizabeth Vladeck, the New York City Department of Education's (DOE) top lawyer, is asking people to donate to a non-profit that helps migrants fight deportation. This has some people wondering if she's going against Mayor Adams' plans to work with President-elect Donald Trump. Vladeck posted a message on X on December 31, encouraging donations to the Florence Immigration & Refugee Rights Project. The project provides free legal and social services to people facing immigration removal proceedings. Some people are surprised by Vladeck's request. A source close to the DOE told The Post that a top official is "basically bucking the mayor" by asking for donations without approval. Mayor Adams has been toughening his stance on deporting migrants accused of violent crimes. He wants to change the city's policy that limits contact with federal agents. He also wants the NYPD to work with Homeland Security against migrants who commit crimes. The Florence Project has helped thousands of migrants coming through the Arizona border with Mexico. They inform asylum seekers about their legal rights if they're caught by ICE. The DOE has a project called "Project Open Arms" to support migrant children. After Trump threatened mass deportations, Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos reminded principals to stop ICE or FBI agents from entering schools without a warrant or subpoena. David Bloomfield, an education professor, doesn't see a problem with Vladeck's request. He thinks it's consistent with DOE policies to protect immigrant student rights. The DOE says Vladeck posted the donation request on her own time, when schools were closed. Vladeck didn't respond to questions, and City Hall had no comment.