NYC Protests: 66 Arrested at Anti-ICE Demonstration in Manhattan Hotel Lobby

Sixty-six people were taken into custody Tuesday night following a protest in Manhattan prompted by the alleged presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers at a local hotel. The demonstration, held at a Hilton Garden Inn on Sixth Avenue in Tribeca, involved protesters voicing opposition to the hotel’s potential housing of federal immigration agents.

Protest and NYPD Response

Demonstration at Hilton Garden Inn

Around 6 p.m., a crowd gathered at the hotel, entering the lobby and chanting slogans. Protesters carried signs with messages such as “Hilton, don’t let ICE stay” and “Hilton: stop housing ICE.” Activists stated they had been monitoring the hotel and observed what they believed to be daily activity by federal agents.

Did You Know? Activist Liv Seghon stated the group’s concern was to prevent a situation similar to events that occurred in Minneapolis from unfolding in New York City.

According to the NYPD, officers repeatedly instructed the protesters to leave the hotel lobby. After nearly an hour, police moved to clear the lobby, resulting in 66 arrests. Sixty-four individuals received summonses for trespassing and disorderly conduct, while two others were issued desk appearance tickets for resisting arrest. No injuries to either protesters or officers were reported.

Official Reactions

It remains unclear whether ICE agents were actually staying at the Hilton Garden Inn at the time of the protest. The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comment. A spokesperson for Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated the mayor was “pleased” the protest concluded without violence.

Expert Insight: The mayor’s statement highlights a potential balancing act between upholding the right to protest and maintaining public order, particularly when demonstrations center on sensitive and politically charged issues like immigration enforcement.

Mayor Mamdani’s statement further characterized ICE as a “rogue agency” that has engaged in “cruel, inhumane, and lawless raids and arrests of American citizens.” He also commended the NYPD’s response in ensuring a non-violent resolution to the demonstration.

What Could Happen Next

Following the arrests, those issued summonses or desk appearance tickets are likely to appear in court to address the charges. Further protests could occur at the Hilton Garden Inn or other locations if concerns about ICE activity persist. It is also possible that the incident could lead to increased scrutiny of the hotel’s contracts and policies regarding housing federal agents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the protest?

The protest was prompted by the alleged appearance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers at a Hilton Garden Inn in Tribeca.

How many people were arrested?

A total of 66 people were taken into custody by the NYPD.

What was the Mayor’s response to the protest?

Mayor Zohran Mamdani was “pleased” the protest concluded without violence and commended both the protestors for exercising their right to protest and the NYPD for their response.

As debates surrounding immigration policy continue, what role do you believe local businesses should play in addressing concerns about federal enforcement activities?