The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) hosted its convening of Long Island member organizations on Tuesday, April 3, at the Huntington Public Library in Huntington Station to continue its efforts to build a united front of statewide partners, while also adding a local dimension to its Blueprint for Immigrant New York.
The NYIC shared vital details on the latest developments in statewide policy, including the passage of the state budget that included $10 million to continue the Liberty Defense Project. Members also collaborated to highlight key local issues, including language access, police cooperation with ICE, access to legal services, and the creation of a county-level ID.
Also discussed was the merger between Long Island Wins and the NYIC, which will strengthen both organizations and enhance immigrant advocacy communications across our region. The NYIC is now also seeking a qualified community organizer for the position of Manager of Member Engagement for Long Island.
Members attending included Cheryl Keshner, senior paralegal with the Empire Justice Center and coordinator of Long Island Language Advocates Coalition; Sabrina Storms, social work intern with the Empire Justice Center; Susan Gottehrer, director of the Nassau chapter of New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU); Laura McKinley, librarian with the Huntington Public Library; Dulce Rojas-Mendez, community organizer for SEPA Mujer; Marton Dioszegi, outreach specialist for Health and Welfare Council of Long Island; Irma Solis, director of the Suffolk chapter of NYCLU; Pat Young, program director of CARECEN; Yanira Chacon, director of St. Brigid’s Casa Mary Johanna; and Nelly A. Romero, program director of the Long Beach Latino Civic Association.
