Coalition for Asian American Children and Families Executive Director Wayne Ho in support of the Education Equity Act

New York is growing.  According to Department of City Planning estimates, over the next 25 years we will add more people than populate the cities of Boston and Miami combined, reaching a total population of 9 million by 2030.  Our city is more diverse than ever: nearly 60 percent of New Yorkers are immigrants or children of immigrants.  Change is happening in every neighborhood. It seems there are no corners of the five boroughs that are not seeing some new development. 

While these changes bring a sense of hope, there is also apprehension.  Will New York’s growing economy offer living wage jobs and opportunities for advancement? Will schools keep pace with the growing needs of a culturally rich and diverse student body? Is our health care system prepared for the estimated New Yorkers who are over 65?  Will anyone but the most wealthy find housing that is safe, accessible and within their means? 

The organizations we support find themselves in the center of that dilemma; between a New York that holds out hope and possibility and one that shoves people to its margins. As the city’s administration forecasts exciting infrastructure changes, capital improvements and economic development projects, our grants reflect the determination of New Yorkers to reclaim their neighborhoods, to contribute as active citizens and to demand a fair share in all that the city has to offer.

Stephen Heyman
Chairman

Maria Mottola
Executive Director