Over 400 of New York City’s tech leaders came together to stand in opposition to President Trump’s executive orders suspending entry for citizens of certain countries and limiting the refugee program.
Tech:NYC, a nonprofit member organization that represents New York City’s growing technology sector wrote an open letter to Trump to share concerns that his recent executive orders will not only undermine the rich diversity New York City and its residents provide but also “send a dangerous message to all immigrants that they are not welcome here.”
The letter continues: “Your executive orders suspending entry for citizens of certain countries, even those who currently have legal status, along with limiting the refugee program, threaten those immigrants who are our current and future neighbors, friends, colleagues, customers, and even bosses.
Their presence is a crucial ingredient that sets New York City apart and a fundamental reason why we have all chosen to build our careers and companies here.”
The letter also discussing the significant role immigrant entrepreneurs play in the American economy,
“Immigrant entrepreneurs started, in whole or in part, some of the most important technology companies of our time including LinkedIn, Tesla Motors, Zipcar, Google, Intel, Yahoo!, eBay, and WhatsApp,” the letter stated. “More than half of the companies on the current list of U.S. technology startups valued at $1 billion or more were started by immigrants.”
The letter concluded with a request to encourage Trump to rescind his executive orders.
Julie Samuels, Executive Director, explained in a statement: “Can and must we do more? Absolutely. This letter is just the beginning of our work to ensure that our city, our state, and our nation remain open to those who need and want to be here, not least of all because we need and want them here just as badly.”
For those who want to sign, you can sign here.
