"Project Rousseau: Empowering Asylum Seekers on Ellis Island Towards Citizenship"

Asylum seekers in New York City, including migrants from Venezuela and Ecuador, are expressing disappointment and frustration with the reality of their new lives in America. Many had hoped for safety, job opportunities, and stability, but instead find themselves struggling to navigate the language barrier, make money, and obtain basic necessities while relying on the city's overwhelmed shelter system. With thousands of migrants entering the city's shelter system each week, New York City officials warn of a looming disaster without significant financial assistance and policy changes. The broken immigration system and lack of political will to address the situation have exacerbated the crisis, leaving migrants sleeping on sidewalks and the city grappling with the costs of caring for them.