More immigration controversy in the ‘burbs of New York

On Sunday, Bill posted an update on the situation in Farmingville – the Long Island community that has been a flashpoint for the domestic controversy over unauthorized migrants. Yesterday’s New York Times had a story about another New York suburb that is experiencing similar dynamics — the town of Brewster, in Westchester County. Anahad O’Connor writes:

“EVERY morning at the glimmer of dawn, scores of immigrant workers from Mexico and Central America gather along Main Street here, lining up to await their deliverance. It arrives in the form of local contractors and homeowners who drive up looking for an extra hand or two, offering the men construction work at $8 to $10 an hour, and on a good day more.

It is a ritual that has gone on quietly in Brewster for about a decade now, generally ignored by those residents and business owners who do not want the day laborers around.

But recently something changed: Many of those opposed to the influx of undocumented workers say they can no longer turn a blind eye. And their fight against the workers’ presence has created a small firestorm.”

For the full story, see http://www.nytimes.com/2006/02/05/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/05webrew.html

-jmc