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By Salman Akhtar - February 27, 2024
Explore the 16th annual Long Island Lobby Day, where a diverse coalition united to advocate for vital funding in transportation, infrastructure, and more. Discover how communities came together to secure investments for a sustainable future.
On an early morning, as the sun barely began to cast its golden hue over the bustling streets of Long Island, a diverse coalition of small business owners, civic leaders, and advocates embarked on a journey to Albany. Their mission? To advocate for the critical needs of their communities on the 16th annual Long Island Lobby Day. This gathering of passionate individuals aimed to secure vital funding and support for transportation, sewage, infrastructure projects, and much more, underscoring Long Island's significant contribution to New York State's budget and its rightful claim to substantial investments in various sectors.
A Unified Front for Long Island
The coalition represented a powerful alliance, comprising organizations such as Vision Long Island, Citizens Campaign for the Environment, and the Long Island Federation of Labor, to name a few. Their agenda was ambitious, addressing the immediate needs for buses, pedestrian safety, clean water, renewable energy, and fair compensation for those dedicating their lives to care for the region's most vulnerable residents. Eric Alexander, a leading voice in the coalition, emphasized the stark budget gap Long Island faces—over $14 billion sent to Albany without sufficient returns. The coalition's plea was clear: it was time for Albany to invest in Long Island's future, from its sewers and roads to affordable housing and small business assistance.
Advocacy in Action
Throughout the day, the coalition met with key figures in the State Senate, Assembly, and representatives from Governor Kathy Hochul's office. Their discussions were not mere formalities but a genuine plea for recognition and support. Adrienne Esposito, co-chair of the coalition, highlighted the diverse nature of the group and its proven record of accomplishments, showcasing the power of a unified voice in making policymakers listen. The coalition's efforts were not just about securing funds; they were about ensuring Long Island's sustainability, health, and prosperity for generations to come.
A Focus on Human Services
One of the coalition's critical areas of focus was the human services sector, particularly the need for fair compensation for those working with the region's neediest residents. Jeffrey Reynolds, CEO of the Family and Children's Association and a member of the coalition, underscored the importance of this issue. Workers in group homes, counseling rooms, and community services are often overlooked, yet they perform some of the most critical work in society. The coalition's plea for annual COLA increases and fair wages was a testament to their commitment to not just the infrastructure of Long Island, but its heart and soul—the people who call it home.
As the Long Island Lobby Day drew to a close, the coalition left Albany not with mere promises, but with a renewed sense of purpose and hope. Their journey was a reminder that when communities come together, their voice can echo through the halls of power, demanding the attention and support they rightfully deserve. For Long Island, the fight for investment and recognition continues, bolstered by the unity and passion of its advocates.