BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — The Brooklyn Bar Association assembled a diverse panel of three New York-based attorneys who gave a thoughtful presentation on law and the American Dream, focusing on immigration, foundational diversity, equity and inclusion practices, and more.
The event took place the evening of May 19 at the BBA’s historic headquarters, 123 Remsen St.
From left: Tifany Gangaram, Esq., Samantha Sbrocchi, Esq., and Dan Antonelli, Esq. Photo: Wayne Daren Schneiderman/Brooklyn Eagle
“They viewed me as a person,” he said. “That prepared me for my move to Brooklyn, giving me the confidence I needed when I came here to pass the bar, find a job and be a member of the Brooklyn Bar for 26 years. There were so many people within the state of New York who looked out for me.”
Vaughn added that today he sees numerous efforts made by universities to bring people in from various backgrounds to diversify their student population, as it “enriches the conversations in the classrooms.”
Bhushan said that, to him, the American Dream is pretty straightforward. “I believe if you pursue your wishes and desires, put in the hard work and are given the opportunity to do so, you should be able to achieve whatever you desire.”
From left: Ronald Cosme, Esq., Neal Bhushan, Esq., Eli Fuchsberg, Esq., and Dan Antonelli, Esq. Photo: Wayne Daren Schneiderman/Brooklyn Eagle
“They viewed me as a person,” he said. “That prepared me for my move to Brooklyn, giving me the confidence I needed when I came here to pass the bar, find a job and be a member of the Brooklyn Bar for 26 years. There were so many people within the state of New York who looked out for me.”
Vaughn added that today he sees numerous efforts made by universities to bring people in from various backgrounds to diversify their student population, as it “enriches the conversations in the classrooms.”
Bhushan said that, to him, the American Dream is pretty straightforward. “I believe if you pursue your wishes and desires, put in the hard work and are given the opportunity to do so, you should be able to achieve whatever you desire.”
From left: Anthony Vaughn Jr., Esq., Christine Ortiz, Esq., and Danielle Noel, Esq. Photo: Wayne Daren Schneiderman/Brooklyn Eagle
Chua pointed out that for her, the American dream is very much about one’s access to justice.
“That access to opportunity shouldn’t rely on their ability to pay a lot of money or their ability to speak English,” she said. “It’s about the ability to navigate the system such that they can build whatever they want for themselves.”
Another topic of conversation dealt with the role practitioners and bar associations should play in making the courts feel more accessible to the public, regardless of immigration status.
“You shouldn’t feel at risk if you make a police complaint and go into court,” said Chua. “You shouldn’t be afraid that you’re going to be arrested or deported because you have a claim against your employer.”
DEI, a high-profile issue under scrutiny for the past few years, was also discussed. When asked for his observations regarding the evolution of diversity within the legal profession, Vaughn said that from 2000 to the present, he has seen significant improvements.
“When I first joined the Brooklyn Bar, there were quite a few Black judges on the bench,” he said. “However, as a young attorney some decades ago, there weren’t many at all.”
From right: Panelists Anthony Vaughn Jr., Esq., Neal Bhushan, Esq., Melissa Chua, Esq., and moderator Danielle Noel, Esq. Photo: Wayne Daren Schneiderman/Brooklyn Eagle
Vaughn said he has seen an evolution of the judiciary in Brooklyn. “It’s becoming younger and more energized,” he said. “I think that everybody who practices law in Kings County is ultimately going to be very happy with the trajectories.”
Looking forward
Noel concluded the discussion with a look toward the future.
“When our nation was founded, there was one idea of what our fabric would look like in terms of immigration and who gets to be American and who doesn’t,” Noel said. “We’re at the 250-year mark, and we get to shape what that vision looks like for the next 250 years. How do you see things in the years ahead?”
“If you have a positive mindset, all good things will come,” Bhushan added.
From left: Danielle Noel, Esq., Melissa Chua, Esq., Neal Bhushan, Esq., and Anthony Vaughn Jr., Esq. Photo: Wayne Daren Schneiderman/Brooklyn Eagle
Chua said she would love to see more people being able to pursue their dreams and that she was optimistic.
Vaughn said that it all comes down to information, adding that an informed public is a stronger public.
“People must understand that civic engagement is critical,” he said. “It’s all about putting others in office who will draft and interpret laws in ways that are fair and equitable for everyone.”
The BBA’s primary purpose is to promote professional competence among attorneys and increase respect for the legal system. It also works to ensure all Brooklyn residents have equal access to the criminal and civil justice systems. The association’s mission is further supported by its Access to Justice Task Force and other initiatives focused on diversity, equity and inclusion.
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
