Queens Residents Protest: Cops or Community Support?

In Queens, sex workers and vendors are protesting against the NYPD's crackdown on Roosevelt Ave. They argue that this operation unfairly targets vulnerable communities, like immigrants and transgender residents. Instead of deploying more police, they believe the city should invest in community programs. Maxima Rodas, from Make the Road New York, criticized the operation as racist and anti-immigrant. A protest on Roosevelt Ave. echoed this sentiment with chants like "No more raids, more resources. "

The push started after Mayor Adams announced raids on two brothels, allegedly involved in sex trafficking. The task force, including NYPD, FDNY, and health departments, will focus on Roosevelt Ave. until the end of the year. Community advocates, however, see this as a distraction from the mayor's legal troubles. They highlight that many turn to sex work to survive. The crowd's anger also targeted former state Sen. Hiram Monserrate, who called for the crackdown. The protestors argue that instead of raids, the city should support these communities. They want resources, not just police action.

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