Rep. Nydia Velázquez, a longstanding member of the U.S. Congress representing New York’s 7th district since 1993, recently shared her thoughts on several pressing issues via social media. Velázquez, who was born in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico in 1953 and now resides in Brooklyn, graduated from the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras in 1974.
On May 8, 2025, Rep. Velázquez expressed optimism about the beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy. She stated “Today, we welcome a new chapter of hope and unity as Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, bringing compassion and a vision for a more inclusive world.” She further emphasized her hopes that his leadership would inspire others to pursue justice and dignity for all individuals.
The following day, May 9, Velázquez addressed an incident involving Rumeysa, who faced deportation under the Trump administration due to an op-ed she wrote for her university newspaper. Velázquez described this action as “an attack on free speech and our immigration system,” calling for Rumeysa’s immediate release.
Later on May 9, Rep. Velázquez commented on the arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka by ICE officials. She criticized the agency’s actions stating that “ICE just arrested Newark Mayor Ras Baraka for trying to do his job and standing up for immigrant rights.” Velázquez demanded his immediate release and remarked that ICE is “out of control.”
Nydia Velázquez continues to be an influential voice in Congress with her active engagement on social media platforms highlighting significant national issues related to immigration policy and human rights.
