Abdelrahman
In the heart of Midtown Manhattan stands The Roosevelt Hotel, a historic establishment over a century old, which has unexpectedly become a pivotal emblem of New York City’s ongoing migrant situation. Often referred to as “the new Ellis Island,” it has served as a vital arrival hub for migrants seeking refuge in the city.
Two summers ago, poignant images of immigrants waiting on the sidewalks for accommodation highlighted the intense cultural and political discussions surrounding the crisis. Recently, Mayor Eric Adams announced that the hotel will stop operating as a shelter by June, a significant change that reflects the decline in migrant arrivals. This decision marks a turning point as authorities dismantle the emergency shelter system that had been in place for almost three years.
Originally closing to guests in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, The Roosevelt became a shelter for migrants and attracted national media attention during the peak of the crisis. Its once-grand lobby became a focal point in America’s immigration discourse — serving as both a stark reminder of the crisis’s severity and a target for criticism from those against taxpayer funding for migration-related expenses.
The recent announcement also underscores a broader trend of decreasing migrant crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border, which has eased the financial and political pressures on cities like New York. Chicago closed its last dedicated migrant shelter in December, with Denver following suit.
Currently housing 2,852 migrants, The Roosevelt is one of over 50 shelters in New York that have either closed or are set to close as the arrival rate of new migrants has diminished. The city has also recently shuttered two large tent facilities on Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn and on Randall’s Island, further reflecting the shifting dynamics of the city’s response to the migrant situation.
