Recently, on a subway platform in the Bronx, a young girl in a puffer coat walked past passengers carrying a basket of M&M’s, Kit Kats, and Trident gum. She appeared to be around 7 or 8 years old.
A video posted on X captured a rider calling out, “No parent, no parent, where the parent at?” as the girl passed by.
One troubling aspect of the migrant crisis in New York City is the sight of children selling candy on the subway. This occurs at various times, sometimes with parents, sometimes without.
New Yorkers have raised concerns about child labor laws and the legality of selling merchandise in the transit system without a permit.
Children between 6 and 17 are required to be in school, and those under 14 are restricted from most jobs. Selling merchandise in the transit system without a permit is also prohibited.
However, when queried, city and state agencies seem to pass the responsibility to others.
Many migrants in New York City are facing challenges due to the expensive living costs and inability to work legally. Selling food becomes a primary source of income for some.
The Department of Education has attendance teachers to ensure children attend school, but they do not actively patrol subway platforms.
The Police Department issues summonses for unlawful vending and solicitation in the subways, but it’s unclear if officers intervene when school-age children are selling candy during school hours.
The State Labor Department finds it challenging to determine if children selling candy in the subway violates labor laws.
The Administration for Children’s Services encourages reporting any unsafe situations involving children.
Logistical hurdles make it difficult to address the issue promptly, with delays in responses from state agencies.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority prohibits unauthorized commercial activity and refers inquiries to the police and City Hall.
Most candy sellers are from Ecuador, and advocates express concerns about children selling candy in New York.
Efforts are being made to assist migrant children and families in pursuing education and living with dignity.
On a Friday afternoon at Columbus Circle, a woman with two children was selling candy on the subway platform. Onlookers expressed concern about the children not being in school.
The young girl explained that she was not in school due to a missed vaccine appointment.
While some sympathized with the mother’s situation, others highlighted the dangers and the importance of education for the children.
Liset Cruz contributed reporting.
