Nov.19, 2004—Africans
In America, Inc. (AIA), a community-based
organization dedicated to providing social services, self-empowerment
and community awareness to the underserved and economically
disadvantaged African communities in the New York metropolitan
area has won 2004 Union Square Award. AIA’s
primary purpose is to end the abuse of the victims of human
trafficking, especially of women and girls, from Africa
living in the United States. New York City is a point of
entry and destination for trafficking victims who are lured
with false promises of good paying jobs, skills training,
education and better lives in exchange for their services.
According to the U.S. State Department, approximately 50,000
trafficked women and children are brought into this country
each year.
The Union Square Awards Program was
established in 1998 through the generosity of an anonymous
donor who wanted to recognize the work and contributions of
grassroots activists in New York City.
The program was named after the park
on 14th Street, a historic gathering place where since the
nineteenth century to the present, New Yorkers have organized
and spoken out about the major social issues of the day. Known
as a forum for the poor and disenfranchised, Union Square is
identified with strong commitments and highlights the essential
qualities embodied in the award.
The Union Square Awards Program seeks
to encourage grassroots activism as a means of strengthening
communities throughout New York City.
The program
honors individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment,
creativity and dedication in leading projects and organizations
that respond to the city’s most pressing social issues.
The award recognizes activists making
vital contributions that improve the lives of people in communities
throughout New York City and who, by example, serve as an inspiration
to others.
The Union Square Award consists of
a grant of up to $50,000 and is made once a year through the
generosity and commitment of the Union Square Fund.
The Union Square
Awards Program is a project of the Tides Center.
To view the award
acceptance vote of thanks by our founder, click
here
