Despite the anti-immigrant rhetoric popularized by the president over the past year, Upstate New Yorkers are having none of it. In cities and towns along the Erie Canal, these refugees are just what the doctor ordered for these formerly ailing areas.

Harsh winters and closures of well-known businesses have taken their toll on many of these cities. And while these areas weren’t as attractive to native-born citizens, immigrants were able to look a little closer and see the ample opportunities that existed.

When people left the area in search of greener, less snowy pastures, refugees were able to take advantage of vacant housing at lower prices. Neighborhoods considered to be less-than-suitable for local residents have experienced financial, community, and aesthetic growth. Religious and health centers have been revitalized; schools with dwindling student bodies are full again.

Local businesses benefitted too, having a whole new workforce that was willing to do labor that locals were not. These hardworking individuals seized the chance to become entrepreneurs themselves, offering exotic flavors and other goods.

Buffalo mayor Byron W. Brown, stated at a town hall meeting last month, “One of the reasons that Buffalo is growing, that Buffalo is getting stronger, that Buffalo is getting better, is because of the presence of our immigrant and our refugee community.”

His position stands in opposition to that of Trump, who has painted refugees as “bad hombres” and “dangerous people” on numerous occasions. But those in Upstate New York have found that this idea, based on fear and lack of understanding, could not be further from the truth.

These refugees aren’t going anywhere — and that’s to the benefit of the area. In Rochester, the loss of 50,000 jobs at Kodak lead to a virtual mass migration of locals. The exodus hurt local businesses even more, but refugees have helped fill some of the gaps. Plus, there’s work here to be done.

Contrary to what the Trump camp would have Americans believe, the majority of the jobs taken on by immigrants are starter positions. Others are looking for higher-level work, and their perseverance will serve them well. In fact, a strong work ethic and a sense of dependability are the two most sought-after soft skills by employers, as 73% of employers seek applicants who possess them. And these refugees overwhelmingly possess the dedication needed to succeed.

In light of the president’s attempts at a travel ban and increasing violence towards certain racial and ethnic groups, many immigrants are worried about their safety. But both Syracuse and Rochester recently reaffirmed their status as sanctuary cities, and Mayor Brown of Buffalo reaffirmed the city’s welcoming attitude towards refugees.

As he referenced the “Refugees Welcome” flag outside City Hall, he noted, “That flag, so far, has withstood that wind [from Lake Erie]. Just like all of us are going to withstand what is coming out of Washington right now.”

And, as eloquently stated on The Hamilton Mixtape: “Immigrants, we get the job done.”