Chaos erupted in Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s New York City district on Tuesday when a Democrat politician was chased out of a public square because he backs a recent police crackdown on illegal sex work plaguing the area. Hiram Monserrate, a former New York state Senator running for state Assembly, was giving interviews to the media praising the police when he was set upon by raging protesters who had been holding a rally calling for the NYPD and state troopers to stop shutting down brothels and illegal street vendors who sell hot food and other merchandise without permits.
The Queens neighborhood is known as a “Red Light” district, with some residents comparing the unsanitary and seedy conditions to a “Third World” country. The demonstrators say residents need to accept prostitution and vendors as a way of life in the neighborhood. The group chanted “More resources, no more raids” while surrounding Monserrate, who was speaking to the press about 50 feet away from the rally taking place at Corona Plaza.
As the chants grew louder, Monserrate attempted to walk away but was followed and heckled by protesters, including Mateo Guerrero, who directed the rally for a local migrant nonprofit. Other members of the group chased after Monserrate, with one protester holding a sign reading “Do not decide for sex workers.” The situation escalated, and Monserrate eventually fled the square with the help of a local activist.
Monserrate emphasized the need for police presence due to a crime wave in the community, citing the importance of cracking down on illegal activities in the area. Last week, New York City Mayor Eric Adams launched “Operation Restore Roosevelt” to address miscreant behavior in the neighborhood. Monserrate called on residents to support the police and attend a rally in their favor.
The battle between sex workers, illegal vendors, and law enforcement has been ongoing in the neighborhood for years. Many sex workers and vendors are migrants who struggle with limited English and accessing legitimate work. Groups like Make The Road New York provide resources and support to these individuals, advocating for their rights and condemning police crackdowns.
Mateo Guerrero, a Make The Road New York program manager, criticized the police crackdown and called for an end to the raids, emphasizing the need for community resources like housing, healthcare, and education. He defended the presence of sex workers in the neighborhood, stating that they have been a part of the community for decades.
After the rally, activists were seen supporting Proposition 1, which aims to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution. Critics argue that the measure could lead to illegal migrants voting in elections. Supporters of sex workers, like Cathy Lopez, a trans woman and current sex worker, emphasized the importance of survival and choice in engaging in sex work.
The situation in Ocasio-Cortez’s district highlights the complex issues surrounding illegal sex work, policing, and community support. As debates continue, it is essential to consider the perspectives of all stakeholders involved and work towards solutions that address the needs of the community while upholding the rule of law.