Representatives from the Mexican government, along with activist groups and elected officials, launched a campaign called "Somos Staten Island," or "We are Staten Island," with the aim of halting hate crimes against Mexican immigrants.

"Given the recent rise in hate crimes against immigrants, we are comforted by the fact that a common strategy has been developed at various levels of government and within the community to condemn and prevent these types of acts," said Ruben Beltran, the Mexican consul in the tri-state area, standing outside the Staten Island Supreme Court.

Beltran expressed his concern over the recent attacks against Mexican immigrants that have occurred in the community.

He referred specifically to the case of Bernardo Garcia, who was attacked by various individuals while on his way home to his apartment from a store, in the neighborhood of Port Richmond, on July 7th around 8:00 p.m.

Beltran met with City Councilmember Debi Rose (D-District 49), Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-District 3), Congressman Michael McMahon (D-District 13) and New York Attorney General Dan Donovan.

"We are going to make sure that everyone here understands that we are Staten Island, that everybody represents this community, and that we all have the right to feel safe in any neighborhood," said Debbie Rose, Councilmember of Staten Island.

The strategy

The campaign aims to eradicate hate crimes by persecuting and punishing these xenophobic acts, and by educating the immigrant community and encouraging them to report attacks, which in turn will prevent future aggression.

A labor union will meet periodically to manage the campaign.

Authorities invite the Mexican community to contact the consulate for assistance with these cases. To report an attack, call 917-459-2143.