IRUSA Advocate Profile: Erum Hanif
How did you first become involved with IRUSA Advocacy?
I started working with IRUSA in 2021 during the COVID-19 Pandemic when APNA Community Center received our first grant for the Ramadan Hot Meals Distribution. I have been coordinating with the IRUSA team since then, and soon after that, I started participating in the advocacy efforts with IRUSA.
What other activities have you participated in?
I have participated in the advocacy meetings in 2022, specifically attended the meetings with Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, Senator Schumer’s office, and attended the IRUSA’s 2023 Food Security Convening and Partnership Gala in 2023. I signed up as an IRUSA Advocate in 2023 and shared the advocacy efforts via social media multiple times. Currently, I am a co-lead of NY for the 2024 Advocacy Days of We Are All America. I have joined 250+ advocates and refugee leaders for #AdvocacyDays24.
What has been the most challenging aspect of doing advocacy?
The most challenging aspects of advocacy are overcoming resistance and dealing with political pushback due to a lack of resources and support. It is challenging to convince and shift the perspective of decision-makers when the cause or community interest does not have adequate supporting data and resources.
For me, the most challenging part of advocacy is the unavailability of accurate data about the Muslim community in NYC, specifically the ethnic groups. There is no authentic source that can give us accurate information about the number of Muslim New Yorkers and the subgroups or ethnic communities; further, the inadequate resource allocation to historically marginalized communities, in addition to that, the limited advocacy training and support for the leaders and advocates of the marginalized communities is another big challenge.
What has been the most rewarding aspect?
The most rewarding aspect of getting involved in the advocacy efforts is to see how, after any campaign, I can initiate and start a new program or service at my organization or how the new program or existing program/service could benefit thousands of individuals. The broader impact of advocacy efforts is to see how, due to the collective advocacy efforts, we can bring a change in policy and legislation and how it could uplift the lives of thousands of individuals, including immigrants, low-income, and refugees, in getting access to the most critical services or programs and to live freely and pursue their immigrant dream on this land of opportunities we call America.
The most rewarding aspect of advocacy often lies in the tangible impact it can have on people’s lives. When you advocate for a cause or a community, seeing the positive changes — whether it’s new policies, increased awareness, or direct support — can be incredibly fulfilling. It’s about making a difference and knowing your efforts have contributed to meaningful progress. Additionally, the relationships and connections you build with others who share your passion can be deeply rewarding. It’s a blend of achieving goals, helping others, and fostering a sense of community.
What would you tell potential advocates?
I suggest to potential advocates that knowing your community and cause is the key for continuing your advocacy efforts. Also, it is good to join more prominent groups, like-minded individuals, and coalitions when you do not have all the resources and support to share your perspective and continue your fight. If you want to bring a transformative change in your community and want to get things done or care about a cause, you must continue developing your knowledge, skills, abilities, and connections.
Collaboration, competence, appropriate resources, support, and a network could lead to bigger wins in achieving just and equitable representation for all with dignity and respect.
Any other stories you’d like to share?
I am an immigrant, and I work for immigrants, I will continue my fight to uplift historically marginalized communities.
