YLN & AU Unite Organizations, Nonprofits, and Community Members for Their First Civic Dinner on Immigration
On Wednesday, February 12, the Young Latino Network (YLN) and Avanzamos Unidos (AU) hosted their inaugural community civic dinner, bringing together organizations, nonprofits, and engaged community members to discuss the impact of recent executive orders on immigration. The event, held in both English and Spanish, provided a space to examine the challenges posed by targeted deportation policies and explore strategies for community protection.
We were honored to be joined by Attorney Jose A. Juarez, Jr., Founder and Partner at Bartell Georgalas & Juarez, LPA Co., who provided a detailed explanation of the new executive orders and addressed questions on how community members can safeguard themselves. (Access the presentation here.)
Additionally, Attorney Brandilyn Cook led a Know Your Rights presentation, ensuring attendees—regardless of immigration status—understood their legal rights and protections. (Learn more about your rights here.)
Following these presentations, attendees participated in structured breakout discussions centered on key areas affected by immigration policies, including:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Small Businesses
- Faith-Based Initiatives
- Housing
- Labor & Employment
- Advocacy & Policy
These breakout sessions allowed organizations, nonprofits, and community members to assess current challenges, identify systemic changes needed for meaningful solutions, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Why This Convening Was Critical
The recent policy changes have not only disrupted lives but have also threatened the stability and well-being of our communities. With direct implications for families, small businesses, healthcare services, education, and other essential sectors, now is the time for action. This gathering served as an urgent call to mobilize, share lived experiences, coordinate resources, and develop tangible solutions in response to these evolving challenges. By coming together, we reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting and advocating for our community.
Looking Ahead
YLN and AU will continue to host community civic dinners and virtual sessions to keep our community informed and empowered. Stay updated on our future events here.
About The Young Latino Network
The mission of the Young Latino Network is to coalesce the power of Latine communities to liberate and transform our people. We amplify our ability to enact change through community-building, civic engagement and advocacy in Ohio.
About Avanzamos Unidos
The mission of Avanzamos Unidos is to grow Latine political power in the state of Ohio. We are building a multi-class, multi-generational grassroots community organization that harnesses the collective political power of the Latine community to advance racial, economic, and social justice for a more equitable Ohio.
