Joseph Hernandez's 'Work for the Dream' Immigration Initiative
In a groundbreaking announcement, Joseph Hernandez, an independent candidate for Mayor of New York City, revealed his ambitious immigration plan called 'Work for the Dream.' This two-year pilot program aims to provide undocumented immigrants with a structured pathway to legal residency while promoting accountability and civic responsibility within the community.
Hernandez pointed out that New York City is home to over 500,000 undocumented immigrants, a population larger than that of Miami. He emphasized that the majority of these individuals are honest, hardworking persons contributing significantly to the city's economy. They work across various sectors, including construction, food service, and healthcare, all vital to the city’s functioning. However, Hernandez firmly believes that immigration must be regulated for sustainability.
"Most undocumented immigrants are honest, hardworking people who want nothing more than a chance to build a better life," Hernandez stated during the announcement. "But we need order in our city. 'Work for the Dream' ensures that promise while protecting public safety and upholding the law."
Key Features of the 'Work for the Dream' Program
Hernandez outlined several critical components of the program:
- - Removal of Felons: The plan mandates the removal of anyone convicted of a felony to ensure the safety of the community.
- - Registration Requirements: Participants will be required to register with fingerprints, proof of residence, and other personal information, ensuring a transparent process.
- - Work and Educational Mandates: Individuals must maintain legal employment or education and file annual taxes, ensuring they contribute to the city's economy.
- - Community Service: Active participation in community service will be a requirement, promoting civic engagement among participants.
- - Reporting Changes: Participants must report any address changes promptly, maintaining their accountability.
- - No Government Benefits: The plan prohibits participants from receiving any government benefits.
- - Criminal Convictions: Anyone convicted of a crime during the program will be denied further participation.
- - Pathway to Residency: After completing two years of compliance, participants will have the opportunity to apply for legal residency, though they will be placed behind those already in line.
Hernandez asserted that the 'Work for the Dream' initiative would be a boon for the city, enhancing tax revenue by billions and rewarding responsible behaviors. He passionately remarked, "This program will remove dangerous criminals, strengthen our economy with billions in tax revenue, and reward responsibility." He believes that this approach respects the law while giving hardworking families a fair opportunity.
A Personal Commitment to Immigrant Rights
Should Hernandez be elected, he has vowed to personally advocate for the 'Work for the Dream' plan on a national level, collaborating with Congress and the White House to galvanize support for this vision.
"Whether from Havana or Haiti, Queens or Queens Village, we all share the same dream - safety, opportunity, and the dignity of work," Hernandez declared. "'Work for the Dream' makes that possible."
About Joseph Hernandez
Joseph Hernandez is a Cuban-American biotech entrepreneur who immigrated to the U.S. at the age of seven. His background as a refugee and a child of a political prisoner drives his commitment to enhancing public health and safety in New York City. As a candidate, his goal is to restore safety, affordability, and accountability to the city's leadership, ensuring a prosperous future for all residents.
For more information on his campaign and the 'Work for the Dream' program, visit
hernandezfornyc.com.