African migrants gathered in large numbers outside City Hall Tuesday, highlighting the struggles of over 1,000 who sought assistance from city legislators.

"The situation is not good for us," said Abdoulaye Diallo.

Diallo was among the hundreds present circling the perimeter as the City Council's Committee on Immigration & Hospitals met with advocates to discuss the experiences of African migrants. The showing outside is what advocates say represent only a fraction of those struggling to live in the city while seeking asylum.

”We need help with working permits because we need jobs, and the living is not easy with us because of the sleeping area - we are living in the shelter,” said Diallo.

Diallo described how unstable shelter conditions are with some migrants forced to sleep outside. Additionally, he said they lack access to halal meals.

Nafanba Sanogo, of African Communities Together, pushed lawmakers for urgent assistance.

“We’re not animals, we’re human beings. We need help, we are tired. We need lawyers to help,” said Sanogo

She and others hope the turnout prompts swift action from policymakers.