Stewards of OUR community.

ICC’s founders envisioned a better world for their children, and today we carry on that legacy for future generations. For 5 decades, ICC has believed in and acted upon building a healthy community by organizing and advocating for justice and a better quality of life. 

As part of ICC’s Legacy, Ironbound Justice is expanding the fight for a brighter future by spearheading work that contributes to creating a safe, healthy, just, and nurturing Ironbound, a welcoming and fully inclusive community that supports equal and accessible opportunity and the quest for a better life. 

Meet the team

Maria Lopez-Nunez, deputy Director of Organizing and Advocacy

Melanie Reyes, Director of Operations - Advocacy and Organizing  

Shavani Hurry, Housing Justice Policy Lead and Program Manager

Shannel Paulino,Community farmer 

Chloe Desir, EJ organizer

Vanessa Thomas, EJ Organizer

Nancy Zak, EJ Organizer (contact for parks)

JV Valladolid, Frontline Communications Manager 

Milagro Blanco, EJ Operations Administrator 

what newark deserves

  • Newark residents deserve cleaner air to breathe freely without the fear of respiratory illnesses or health complications. By advocating for stricter pollution controls and promoting renewable energy sources, we're ensuring that every individual can enjoy a healthier environment and a better quality of life.

  • Newark residents deserve land that is free from pollution and contamination, where they can live, work, and play without fear of environmental harm. Through cleanup initiatives and environmental restoration projects, we're reclaiming polluted land and preserving natural spaces for the well-being of current and future generations.

  • Access to clean water that is safe for all uses is a fundamental right that Newark residents deserve. Through community-driven efforts to monitor water quality and implement green water solutions, we're safeguarding public health and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and clean drinking water for themselves and their families.

  • Newark residents deserve access to clean and sustainable energy sources that reduce pollution and mitigate climate change. By promoting renewable energy solutions and advocating for green infrastructure, we're creating a cleaner, healthier future for our community, where clean energy powers our homes and businesses without harming the environment.

  • Every Newark resident deserves access to affordable, safe, and dignified housing. By fighting for housing equality through grassroots organizing and policy advocacy, we're striving to eliminate homelessness and housing insecurity, ensuring that everyone has a place to call home.