I want to express my unconditional support for Aleksander Nijal. I have known Aleksander for more than 10 years, dating back to my return home to the Bronx following my service in the United States Marine Corps.
Aleksander was a welcoming presence as I became involved in the Bronx community, nonprofit organizations, and local leadership. When I first met him, he was volunteering with the Morris Park Patrol, helping protect and serve his neighborhood. He was always eager to speak with me about my work assisting veterans through Devil Dog USA Incorporated.
Over the years, I witnessed his growing commitment to community service, including his involvement with the Open Hands Association Incorporated food pantry. I have consistently praised his efforts and offered my assistance whenever possible.
Despite our differences in political affiliations and the current political climate, we believed it was best to avoid working directly together. Nevertheless, my admiration for his dedication to the community has never wavered. Our occasional interactions over the years have always been respectful.
My most recent interaction with Aleksander was earlier this year, while I was collecting petition signatures in his neighborhood for my congressional campaign. Although we share many political beliefs, we sometimes differ in how we approach them, something we have always mutually respected.
Given his political allegiance to the incumbent in New York’s 15th Congressional District, we both understood that our conversations and interactions would likely remain limited during the election cycle. However, political differences should never diminish our respect for one another or erase the years of service someone has dedicated to their community.
Aleksander embodies the type of individual whose contributions demonstrate one of the many reasons New York City has maintained its sanctuary-city policies. His immigration status should not overshadow the years he has spent volunteering, serving families in need, and making a positive difference in the Bronx.
My support for President Donald Trump’s immigration framework has not changed. However, I continue to disagree with how immigration enforcement through ICE has been implemented. I have consistently urged the administration to prioritize the apprehension and removal of violent criminals before focusing its resources on individuals such as Aleksander, who have demonstrated a commitment to serving their communities.
Throughout my years of advocacy, I have supported immigration reform, including efforts to expedite visa processing and improve access to legal immigration pathways. Through my nonprofit work, I have also helped provide services to individuals in need through donations, internships, employment opportunities, and assistance with application fees in recognition of their service to veterans and the broader community.
I firmly believe that immigration enforcement and compassion are not mutually exclusive. We can support the rule of law while recognizing the contributions of individuals who have spent years giving back to our neighborhoods.
Although I was unable to attend the community gathering in support of Aleksander, I want to publicly pledge my support to him and his family during this difficult time.
My prayers are with Aleksander and his loved ones. If a petition is circulating in his support, I will proudly add my signature.
I stand behind Aleksander Nijal, not because of politics, but because of his character, his years of service, and his unwavering dedication to the Bronx community.