As an organization rooted in and led by immigrant communities, we know what it means to build a life in a new place. We also know the systemic barriers that continue to prevent many from accessing the resources they need, not because of lack of will or effort, but because of policies that exclude or ignore them.

We envision a Maine where immigrant families don’t just survive, they thrive. Where newcomers are welcomed, supported, and empowered. And where policies reflect the truth: that immigrants are not only part of our communities, they help lead them.

Our work is rooted in healing, prevention, and justice. We believe that safety must come from care, connection, and community—not fear or isolation. Ending gun violence means addressing its root causes, advocating for policies that protect people, and supporting those who’ve been harmed. We are committed to building a future where no one has to live in fear of gun violence and where every community has what it needs to thrive.

We’ve seen the rising cost of living force our neighbors to work multiple jobs just to make rent. We’ve watched our neighborhoods change rapidly, pushed by gentrification, displacement, and development that does not serve the people who live there. And with a shortage of high-paying, livable-wage jobs, too many families are left behind, struggling to keep a roof over their heads.

Everyone deserves the chance to live in a neighborhood where they feel safe, rooted, and respected for generations to come.

For too long, our youth have bravely spoken out about the inequities they experience in schools across Maine. Students of color face disproportionate discipline, over-surveillance, and under-support. Immigrant and ELL students often remain stuck in under-resourced programs, unable to fully advance because the system wasn’t built with them in mind. Many never get the chance to reach their full academic potential, not due to a lack of ability, but due to a lack of access, respect, and opportunity.

Educators and administrators too often fail to reflect the diversity of the communities they serve. Our students deserve to see their cultures, languages, and histories celebrated—not erased. They deserve a curriculum that is culturally responsive, educators who understand their lived experiences, and school environments that affirm rather than alienate.

We believe in transforming our schools so they truly serve all students. That means investing in multilingual learning, dismantling discriminatory discipline practices, and hiring and retaining diverse teachers and staff. It means listening to students when they tell us what they need and acting on it.
Education should be a place where students feel safe, empowered, and inspired. Anything less is unacceptable.

In too many of our communities, people are forced to delay or skip medical care because they’re uninsured or underinsured. For immigrants and non-citizens, the barriers are even higher. Most are excluded from public programs like MaineCare, leaving them without access to preventive care, mental health support, or affordable treatment when they’re sick. This doesn’t just harm individuals, it puts the health of our entire community at risk.

We’ve seen the consequences: crowded emergency rooms, chronic illnesses left untreated, and growing health disparities. We also know the fear many feel such as seeking care while undocumented, of not being understood because of language barriers, or of facing discrimination when they do show up.

Everyone deserves the chance to live a healthy life, one filled with dignity, compassion, and care.