Engaging our Immigrant Community in Louisiana

Navigating complex systems, rights, and resources can often leave families feeling frustrated, uncertain, and unheard. As part of our YMECI Grand Opening events at 535 Holmes Blvd in Terrytown, we brought community members together for an essential session focused on advocacy, rights, and practical preparation.   

The session featured guest speaker Guerline Jozef, Co-Founder of Haitian Bridge Alliance, alongside attorney Colette Pichon Battle from Taproot Earth. Focusing on the critical topic of immigrant rights, they provided clear, straightforward guidance to help demystify legal protections and address the real-world concerns facing many in our community. For many attendees who have felt hopeless or overwhelmed when seeking trustworthy information, the discussion offered much-needed clarity, renewed hope, and actionable insight.   

Alongside the legal rights session, we also hosted a Free School Supplies Giveaway to relieve some of the immediate burdens on local families preparing their children for school. By pairing advocacy and education with practical assistance, our goal remains simple: to stand alongside our neighbors, restore confidence, and ensure no one has to navigate these challenges alone. We are grateful to our speakers and everyone who took part in making this session a meaningful step forward for our community. 

Here are photo recaps from the event.

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