View this email in your browser ([link removed])
[link removed]

Dear John,
* Nearly 40 families at Gowanus Houses have faced gas line shutdowns. In partnership with CHiPS and Meals on Wheels, we’ve organized supplemental food services to support them. To spread some holiday cheer, my office is coordinating a special holiday pie distribution. The Fifth Avenue Committee will purchase pies from Four & Twenty Blackbirds ([link removed]) to help deliver them to local families. If you’d like to support, please donate here ([link removed]) by 5 PM on 12/16 and comment “Gowanus/Pies” in the “Leave a Comment” section. Any additional funds raised will go toward providing more food resources for these families.

Local Opportunities to Defend Our Values

Over the past month, many constituents have expressed concern about the potential impact of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office on our city, our rights, and our communities. These worries have only intensified as Mayor Eric Adams has increasingly aligned with Trump. Recently, the Mayor has threatened to roll back sanctuary protections, praised his collaboration with incoming “border czar” Tom Homan, and openly supported Elon Musk. In times like these, it’s crucial that we resist the temptation to disengage politically and instead channel our dissatisfaction with federal politics into meaningful local action.

My team and I are committed to strengthening our city as a sanctuary for communities most vulnerable to the threats of a second Trump presidency. For instance, last week, my Resolution 94—calling on New York State to mandate age-appropriate, comprehensive sex education for K-12 students—was heard in committee. This resolution is a crucial step toward protecting and promoting the health, safety, and well-being of our youth. Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade, essential sexual health education has been rolled back across the country. By implementing inclusive, comprehensive curricula, we can equip the next generation with the tools to make healthy, empowered decisions.

In addition to this, the Governor’s reinstatement of congestion pricing, effective January 9th, will play a vital role in protecting our city, state, and planet from the effects of climate change. We are also continuing to fight for reproductive rights, uphold our status as a sanctuary city, and defend the rights of our LGBTQ community against any attacks.

As your Council Member, my team and I have always been—and will continue to be— committed to our safety and unity. I will consistently work to bring us together, not divide us, and remain responsive to the public safety concerns that matter most to our communities.

Organizing, resilience, and building strong, civically engaged communities go far beyond the ballot box. Now, more than ever, we must take action locally to shape a brighter future for our city and country. Here are a few ways you can get involved and make a real difference:

* Join Your Local Community Board: Get involved in shaping decisions on transportation, housing, sanitation, and more by joining your local community board. Applications are open through 2/15 ([link removed]) .[link removed]
* Support Mutual Aid Networks: Help organize and contribute to mutual aid efforts that provide resources to neighbors, including asylum seekers, homeless individuals, and English learners. Active groups like the Gowanus Mutual Aid ([link removed]) , South Brooklyn Mutual Aid ([link removed]) , and Red Hook Mutual Aid ([link removed]) are serving the 39th district and nearby areas.
* Volunteer with Pro-Se Immigration Efforts: Assist immigrant New Yorkers through ImmigrantArc’s Friend of the Court Program ([link removed]) , which helps individuals navigate the immigration court system. You can also support asylum seekers with legal filing assistance and authorization applications at the South Brooklyn Sanctuary ([link removed]) and Asylum Support Clinic ([link removed]) .
* Attend Planned Parenthood’s Day of Action ([link removed]*19q5guy*_ga*MjE3OTkzMDM3LjE3MzM4NjAxODI.*_ga_ENXC8KHJL8*MTczNDAwMzk4OC4yLjAuMTczNDAwMzk5Ni4wLjAuMTczNzc5Njc1Mw..) : On 2/26, join hundreds of advocates in Albany to demand expanded access to reproductive care. Boxed lunches will be provided, and bus transportation may be available.
* Protect Transgender, Non-binary, and Gender-Expansive Rights: Update your documents, such as driver's licenses and passports, before January to reflect your desired name or gender marker changes. Explore volunteer opportunities ([link removed]) to support LGBTQIA+ communities across New York.
* Know Your Rights: Review your fundamental rights ([link removed]) under the U.S. Constitution, New York State civil rights laws ([link removed]) , and enhanced protections for consumers, tenants, workers, protesters, immigrants ([link removed]) , students, and more. Being informed ensures you’re prepared to assert your rights.
* Fight for Healthier, More Sustainable Communities: Join the NYC Environmental Justice Alliance ([link removed]) and 350Brooklyn ([link removed]) in advocating for cleaner air, environmental equity, and a healthier future for all.
* Join the District 39 Youth Leadership Council: On Tuesday 12/17 at 5:30 PM, attend the Youth Activism Forum at the Park Slope Library Auditorium. Learn how youth can take action on issues like immigration, reproductive justice, and environmental advocacy. This event is open to all youth in District 39 and beyond— RSVP ([link removed]) to secure your spot!


Constituent Services Corner

My office has received multiple reports of private companies sending mailers to homeowners that appear to be official notices from the Department of Buildings (DOB). Please be aware that the official DOB notices ([link removed]) are distinct. If you receive a suspicious mailer or have concerns about its authenticity, contact our office immediately.

We encourage homeowners to review the DOB's new Annual Parapet Observation Guide ([link removed]) , which outlines when an annual inspection is required. The guide clarifies common terms like “parapets” and “cornices” and includes photos to help you distinguish between the two. You can find more information on page 3 of the guide.

What Are Parapet Inspections?

Since January 2024, building owners with parapets fronting a public right-of-way (such as streets, sidewalks, or roadways) must conduct an annual observation regardless of the building’s height. Learn more about the new parapet inspection rules ([link removed]) , read the FAQ ([link removed]) , and review the Annual Parapet Observation Guide ([link removed]) . If you have any questions, please email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .


We’re Hiring! Park Slope & Windsor Terrace Constituent Services Liaison

We’re looking for a dedicated Constituent Services Liaison to join our team and support the residents of District 39, with a particular focus on Park Slope and Windsor Terrace. The ideal candidate will have a strong knowledge of the 39th Council District and experience in case management. If you’re passionate about serving the community and making a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today ([link removed]) , or please help us spread the word!

Community Bulletin
* Join the next Brooklyn Marine Terminal public workshop on Monday, 12/16, at 6 PM to provide input on the future of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal corridor. Register here ([link removed]) .
* The Panel for Educational Policy (PEP) is considering a proposal to merge MS 266 and MS 301. Share your feedback at a virtual community meeting on Monday, 12/16, at 6 PM ([link removed]) or 7:30 PM ([link removed]) to learn more.
* The holidays can be especially stressful for caregivers. Join Heights and Hills for a virtual workshop ([link removed]) on Wednesday, 12/18, at 12 PM to connect with others and discuss strategies for navigating caregiving challenges during the holiday season.
* Sign up for Animal Care Center’s upcoming foster orientations ([link removed]) ! A 90-minute session is all it takes to help a homeless pet find a temporary home. All supplies are provided, and anyone 18+ can foster.
* The Powerhouse Arts Artist Subsidy Program ([link removed]) is accepting applications now through Wednesday, 1/8. This program provides financial support for NYC-based artists facing barriers in realizing their creative projects. Priority is given to low-to-moderate income artists with other marginalized identities, specifically Black, Indigenous, artists of color, LGBTQIA+, disabled, and refugee artists with little to no institutional support or gallery representation.

In solidarity,
Council Member Shahana

[link removed]
[link removed]
[link removed]

Our mailing address is:
New York City Council Member Shahana Hanif
197 Bond Street
Brooklyn, NY 11217
USA
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences ([link removed]) or unsubscribe ([link removed])
[link removed]