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Dear John,
As we come off celebrating our country’s independence, the call for our leaders to choose care over cruelty has never been more urgent.
We must reckon with the reality that while America was founded on ideals of freedom, it has long denied those freedoms to so many—Black, brown, immigrant, Muslim, LGBTQ+ communities, and others historically targeted by state violence.
As a first-generation Muslim American raised in the shadow of 9/11 and the Patriot Act, I know what it means to grow up under suspicion. That experience drives my commitment to building a city and country that protects—not punishes—families, immigrants, and those who’ve been denied justice.
I celebrate the promise that everyone deserves due process and basic human rights. That work continues every day as your Council Member—because there are no kings in America. We fight for the people.
Safety Note: Animal shelters report a rise in lost pets after the July 4th holiday, as fireworks can be disorienting and traumatic for animals. To keep your pets safe, please keep them indoors during fireworks, ensure they’re wearing up-to-date ID tags or are microchipped, and avoid bringing them to public displays. Walk dogs earlier in the day before the celebrations begin, and create a quiet, secure space at home where they can feel safe. Let’s make sure the holiday is safe and comfortable for our beloved pets too.
I’m deeply concerned about Congress’s proposed Budget Reconciliation Bill, which poses serious threats to working families across New York and the nation. Spearheaded by Trump and his Congressional allies, the bill slashes healthcare coverage for over a million New Yorkers, cuts SNAP benefits for 250,000 people, and puts nursing homes at risk of closure—exacerbating food insecurity and putting lives on the line. These targeted, reckless cuts are part of a broader effort to dismantle the social safety net while protecting billionaires and defense contractors.
In response, the New York City Council took proactive steps in our Fiscal Year 2026 Budget to “Trump-proof” essential services and expand investments that support our most vulnerable communities. On Monday, I highlighted major citywide wins that will help shield New Yorkers from the fallout of these looming federal cuts ([link removed]) . I remain in close coordination with elected officials at the state and federal levels to protect working families in our district and across the city.
Meanwhile, as we witness a troubling increase in ICE raids across New York City, I urge everyone to review the updated NYIC Community Safety Toolkit. This vital resource includes best practices for preparing yourself and your family, and guidance on how to support someone in detention. Access the toolkit here: NYIC Community Toolkit (PDF) ([link removed]) .
FY26 Capital Wins for District 39
This week, I’m proud to share the capital investments I secured for District 39 in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. Each year, my office allocates $5 million to capital projects that improve quality of life and expand access to critical services across our district. This year, thanks to a strong partnership with Speaker Adrienne Adams, we secured an additional $7.4 million, bringing our total capital investment to $12.4 million. I’m deeply grateful for the Speaker’s leadership and collaboration. Here are some of the highlights:
Public Health & Housing – $2.5M
* $75K for a new FDNY passenger van for EMS Division 8, ensuring faster and more efficient emergency response.
* $216,000 for the Fifth Avenue Committee to rehabilitate Supportive Slope, a five-story building in Park Slope with 48 units of permanently affordable supportive housing.
+ This project also received $750,000 in additional funding through the support of Speaker Adrienne Adams.
* $500K for Catholic Charities to develop 121 units of affordable housing for seniors.
* $1M in Speaker-supported funding for the Fifth Avenue Committee to construct 111 units of permanently affordable senior housing in South Slope.
Education & Childcare – $5.9M
* $500K for One World Project to support the development of a new community center and childcare facility in Windsor Terrace.
+ This project also received $4.1M in additional funding through the leadership of Speaker Adrienne Adams.
* $350K for MS 88 Peter Rouget to install supplemental cooling systems.
* $300K for PS 154 to upgrade its cafeteria.
* $450K for PS 282 to complete much-needed bathroom renovations.
* $75K for the Pre-K Center at Bishop Ford for bathroom upgrades.
* $90K for Cobble Hill School of American Studies to modernize classroom technology.
* $150K for Cyberarts Studio Academy to implement advanced technology upgrades.
* $200K for MS 51 to support new classroom tech infrastructure.
* $50K for PS 372 to complete a comprehensive technology upgrade.
Arts, Culture, & Parks – $880K
* $195K for Spoke the Hub to upgrade lighting and audio-visual systems, enhancing accessibility and supporting high-quality community programming.
* $37K for Rooftop Films to purchase an LED display system for free public outdoor film screenings and events.
* $500K to upgrade the public restrooms at the Willink entrance of Prospect Park, improving access and usability for all parkgoers.
* $150K to install tree guards across District 39, protecting street trees and supporting a greener, more climate-resilient city.
Community Bulletin
* Join the District 39 Cleanup Crew on Saturday, July 12 at 10:00 AM for a community cleanup in South Slope! We’ll be meeting at the corner of 5th Avenue and 20th Street. Bring any gloves, trash pickers, or bags you may have—tools will also be provided if needed. Be sure to dress comfortably and wear plenty of sunscreen. Let’s work together to keep our neighborhood clean and vibrant! RSVP here ([link removed]) .
* Join the Department of Transportation (DOT) for an online session for older adults and people with disabilities on Navigating NYC With Confidence: An Info Session on Accessible Transportation ([link removed]) , on Thursday, 7/15, from 1 PM to 2:30 PM.
* Are you a CUNY senior or recent graduate eager to start your career in public service? The Civil Service Pathways Fellowship, a two-year paid program run by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), is now accepting applications for its next cohort! This program offers a direct route for college graduates to impactful careers in NYC government, providing professional development, mentorship, and practical experience in shaping our city's future. Don’t miss this incredible chance to make a difference. Apply today: [link removed].
* Powerhouse Arts just launched their Artist in Residence (AiR) program and is now accepting applications from merging to mid-career New York City-based artists working in print, ceramics, public art, and textiles who have been historically underrepresented in traditional AiR programs, specifically Black, Indigenous, artists of color, LGBTQIA+, disabled, and low-income artists. Apply by 8/10 ([link removed]) .
* For the fifth year running, Brooklyn Conservatory of Music’s (BKCM) Midsummer Nights series is bringing four evenings of free music to BKCM’s front stoop in July and August. BKCM’s front stoop on 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, and 8/14 at 6:30 PM! Check out the lineup and RSVP here ([link removed]) .
In solidarity,
Council Member Shahana
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Our mailing address is:
New York City Council Member Shahana Hanif
197 Bond Street
Brooklyn, NY 11217
USA
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