A speaker at the event emphasized the ongoing role of immigrants in shaping New York’s collective identity. | Contributed Photo
NEW YORK – The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) celebrated the pre-launch of the “New York Proud” campaign, a public art project celebrating the vibrant and diverse stories of immigrants across New York City at the iconic Flatiron Building in Manhattan.
Subway posters and public art placements are likely to be installed today in time for the start of the day tomorrow, August 30.
The pre-launch event for the New York Proud campaign featured a power lineup of speakers, including:
Murad Awawdeh – President & CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition. He framed the campaign as a reset of the immigration narrative in NYC, emphasizing immigrants as drivers of innovation and progress.
Oscar B. Castillo – Venezuelan documentary photographer. He spoke about the emotional depth of capturing each portrait and the power of public art to foster empathy and understanding.
Council Member Alexa Avilés – Chair of the Immigration Committee. She highlighted the importance of storytelling in combating xenophobia and uplifting immigrant communities.
Council Member Carmen De La Rosa – District 10 As the first Dominican woman to represent North Manhattan, she shared personal reflections on immigrant identity and solidarity.
City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams – District 28. She praised the campaign as a testament to the value and contributions of immigrant New Yorkers.
Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris – District 12. He emphasized the ongoing role of immigrants in shaping New York’s collective identity.
Also, there were two campaign participants, Sarah Marquez, a restaurant owner, and Mayoma Nwdike, a Nigerian visual artist. Both shared their lived experiences and the significance of being publicly represented in the campaigns.
Jean Cooney, Director of Public Art at the Times Square Alliance, spoke about transforming public spaces into platforms for immigrant storytelling.
The New York Proud campaign features a striking photo series of 25 portraits, displayed across subway stations and public spaces throughout New York City. These 25 portraits form the core of the campaign’s visual storytelling.
Each portrait showcases immigrants in their workplaces or moments of joy — from fruit vendors and drag performers to visual artists and bus drivers — emphasizing their integral role in shaping New York City’s cultural and economic life.
A photo exhibition in Times Square will be on display from August 30 to September 14. Additional pop-ups in Brooklyn (starting August 29) and Queens (beginning September 15)
“New York Proud is not just about defending the rights of immigrants – it’s about reminding New Yorkers the indispensable role immigrants play in keeping our city alive,” said Awawdeh, President & CEO, New York Immigration Coalition. “Immigrants have been critical in shaping the past, present, and future of New York City.”
The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) is a powerhouse in immigrant advocacy. Founded in 1987, NYIC is a statewide umbrella organization representing over 200 immigrant and refugee groups across New York—from NYC to Buffalo, Long Island to Syracuse.
Their mission is to transform the lives of all New Yorkers by building member power, educating communities, and advocating for justice and opportunity.
