Recently, Staten Island made national headlines as protests against COVID-19 restrictions turned violent and attracted a hate group to Staten Island. As we enter the ninth month of the COVID-19 pandemic the pleas of small business owners, laid off workers, individuals with pre-existing conditions, etc. are growing louder and more desperate. The need to protect public health is tantamount but in order to do that, we must also provide economic relief to those suffering economic hardship as a result of the pandemic. Staten Islanders are hurting and need swift support from our government during this unprecedented time.

We must take action and demand our elected officials do their jobs and pass a comprehensive relief bill NOW!

At a minimum, the relief bill must provide:

• Direct relief to small business owners

• Enhanced unemployment benefits

• A continued eviction moratorium for renters and mortgage deferments for landlords, as well as, financial assistance for rent payments

• Student loan assistance

• Relief for state and local governments

We also believe that the relief bill should apply for all regardless of immigration status.

We're thrilled that the following organizations have signed on to this campaign:

Move Forward Staten Island

Staten Island Progressive Coalition

Sustainable Staten Island

New York Center for Interpersonal Development, Inc.

Pride Center of Staten Island

La Colmena

CWA Local 1102

Above Ground Railroad

CSI Chapter Executive Committee of the Professional Staff Congress

Democratic Socialists of America: Staten Island Branch

Staten Island Women Who March

Staten Island Inter-Religious Leadership

Peace Action of Staten Island

Staten Isla