In November 2025, Fordham Campus Ministry together with the Initiative on Migrants, Migration and Human Dignity hosted the second meeting of the New York City Jesuit Accompaniment Network, where local Jesuit and affiliated organizations gather to discuss migration accompaniment work. The gathering was held at Fordham University and brought together representatives from Fordham, St. Ignatius Loyola Parish, the Ignatian Volunteer Corps, St. Peter’s University, Xavier Parish, the Brooklyn Jesuits, the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus, among others.
NYC Jesuit Accompaniment Network in November 2025
Participants discussed both the strengths of ongoing accompaniment work, and the challenges brought on by the heightened fear surrounding today’s immigration climate. Several attendees emphasized the need for improved coordination across institutions, noting that meaningful accompaniment needs structure and collaborative efforts.
Nick Napolitano of the USA East Province of the Society of Jesus noted that the Province has been particularly strong in witness work, supported by a recent statement from the U.S. Bishops. However, he emphasized that the Province remains less prepared in responsiveness. Nick referenced existing initiatives such as the JRS Court Observation Program as a potential model and highlighted the importance of initiatives that move past observation and toward direct engagement. Similarly, the work of the Ignatian Solidarity Network was upheld for its success in engaging students through the Unity Network, which provides space for undocumented and mixed-status students and recent alumni to build community.
The gathering reflected a shared commitment to bringing the NYC community together and emphasized the need for visible engagement across institutions that work in migration justice. To maintain this momentum, the group agreed to establish a dedicated communication channel to share events and information. Additionally, the group plans to introduce a plus-one policy to their meetings in order to expand their network.
Flyer for Launch of Cura Companions Accompaniment Network
The resolve of the NYC network will be strengthened through several key initiatives launching in early 2026. On January 13, the Cura Companions accompaniment network will launch to encourage Jesuits to deepen their personal involvement in migration issues.
Also in January the Jesuit Migration Network of Canada and the US will gather in Miami and several members of this network will be in attendance. Finally, JRS has announced their Advocacy Day (online and in person) for April 21, 2026.
The luncheon closed with a sense of resolve to strengthen existing bonds to one another in anticipation of potentially worsening migration conditions.