History

During the 1980’s the City of Syracuse experienced an increase in the Hispanic population. However, these newcomers faced many barriers because of their language and integration into the American culture. Inspired by the activities of the Somos Uno Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force conference in Albany, New York, concerned Syracusans decided to form a coalition to address issues affecting the Latino community.

Founding members of ANCLA include Sylvia Martinez Daloia, Ampara Ocasio, Sam Velazquez, Theresa Pagano, Bea Gonzalez, Ruth Henry, Carlos Lavezarri (deceased), Kathy Rusciotto, Anita Garcia, and Dotti Barraco-Hetner.  Today, some of the founding members are still actively involved.

At the beginning of its creation, a New York State grant was secured to implement the goals and objectives of ANCLA’s statement of purpose. ANCLA began holding monthly At large meetings in an effort to strengthen communication between the Latino community and the community at large.  Service agency providers, elected officials, and community people, attended monthly at large meetings. These meetings were also an informational and networking opportunity for Latinos and non-Latinos to exchange ideas and create cultural awareness. In order to facilitate ongoing communication, identify and seek solutions, and determine a course of action, ANCLA formed committees to address specific concerns regarding issues of health, education, employment, drug and substance abuse,  housing and law enforcement.

One of these issues was the need for a health clinic in the near Westside. Members of ANCLA’s health committee worked to bring health services into the neighborhood that would help ease the burden of transportation and child care issues. Today, residents of the near Westside are still benefiting from the health care services provided by the St. Joseph’s Health Clinic.

Since its inception ANCLA has advocated for an increase in bilingual/bicultural professional staff in all aspects of government and non government institutions; advocated for trained medical interpreters in the local hospitals; conducted voter education and registration drives; conducted community “Know Your Rights” forums; facilitated community forums for elected officials; sponsored youth leadership conferences; facilitated and sponsored cultural awareness and educational events.

One important event that will celebrate its Fifteenth year is the Realizando Mis Sueños Latina conference to be held on Saturday, June 3, 2006.     

It is important to note that ANCLA is not a direct service provider. It is a coalition of volunteers and community members. ANCLA is directed by Core Members who are voted in and guided by the Bylaws of the organization.  Current Core members include:  Arlene Melchiorre, Sylvia Martinez Daloia, Theresa Pagano, Robin Braunstein, Maria deLourdes Fallace, Gina Grullon, Lydia Media, Anthony Otero, and Josie Otero.  For more information contact Sylvia Martinez-Daloia at 315-443-5181.