Southside United HDFC-Los Sures, MOIA, Inform Immigrants of their Rights

For Immediate Release Contact: Stephanie Pinilla

March 22, 2017 spinilla@lossures.org

Southside United HDFC-Los Sures, MOIA, Inform Immigrants of their Rights

Brooklyn, NY, 3/22/17: On Tuesday, March 21, 2017, concerned community members got answers to questions at an immigration forum hosted jointly by Southside United HDFC- Los Sures and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA).The event took place at First Spanish Presbyterian Church, 161 South 3rd Street. The presenters at the forum were Los Sures Community Organizer Raul Flores, New York Legal Assistance Group Attorney Lizeth Castillo, and Carlene Pierre of (MOIA), who discussed information about legal rights and naturalization.

“A lot of the information that’s been out there has been scaring the people that we serve. What we’re trying to do is inform individuals about their immigration rights in order to reduce that fear and ensure that their rights are protected,” said Southside United HDFC- Los Sures Executive Director Ramon Peguero, Esq.

In recent months, the immigrant community has expressed fear due to a lack of understanding about their rights.

“We are sharing accurate information about immigration regulations, and giving people resources to know what actions to take if faced with an immigration problem or issue,” said Flores.

Flores, Castillo, and Pierre took turns answering questions from the attendees. One resident was so eager to speak that he asked his question while Castillo was still making her presentation.

Castillo said, “The wrong information can get people in so much trouble. Really, I hope people leave feeling a little more calm and with a better idea of their rights.”

Pierre presented information about IDNYC and encouraged attendees to apply for their card.

Attendees crowded the panelists after the event to thank them for taking the time to share vital information. To get more details about immigration contact Stephanie Pinilla at spinilla@lossures.org.

Southside United HDFC- Los Sures, www.southsideunitedhdfc.org, is a pioneering, community-based non-profit organization that was among the first to answer the call to rebuild North Brooklyn 45 years ago. Not only has Los Sures undertaken large-scale rehabilitation of many buildings, allowing families and individuals to live comfortably while creating an aesthetically pleasing neighborhood, but the organization provides a range of social services, including a food pantry, a fresh produce distribution center, a senior center, tax preparation assistance, community and tenant advocacy and workshops. The organization also operates a community museum, El Museo de Los Sures, which showcases diverse artists.