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“Celebrating the Changemakers,” Councilman Brannan joins NIA Network to honor unsung women at luncheon gala

CONEY ISLAND — “Celebrating the Changemakers,” a Women’s History Month luncheon, was held at Gargiulo’s Restaurant (2911 West 15th Street) Saturday afternoon — presented by Councilman Justin Brannan in partnership with NIA Community Services Network (a Brooklyn-based non-profit youth organization).  

The architect of the event, Charlene Batts, who is director of strategic initiatives and public affairs for Councilman Justin Brannan, told the Brooklyn Eagle that her objective was to make women feel “empowered, inspired, and strengthened.” 

“I wanted it to be special, and I wanted them to feel celebrated,” Batts said, adding that she selected everyone personally, approached Brannan with her choices, and he wholeheartedly agreed.

“There are some women that are doing some outstanding things but go unrecognized,” Batts pointed out, “and I’m really hoping this is something we will continue to do to encourage and inspire women to do more.”

Among the accolades bestowed was “The United Order of Tents” (UOT) award, which Essie Gregory accepted.

UOT was formed in 1848 to provide aid to those escaping slavery via the Underground Railroad. Their mission is to promote the social and economic liberation of Black women in order to enrich their communities. 

In addition, Pamela Pettyjohn, CIBP’s co-founder and president, received the “Coney Island Beautification Project” (CIBP) award. The environmentally focused civic organization was formed after Hurricane Sandy to involve the Coney Island community in the repair, maintenance, and enhancement of the local environment.

And Amonni S. Taylor-Chavis, a Brooklyn native who currently serves as director and senior case manager at the Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island’s “Work Plus” Job Readiness Program and as executive coaching director and owner at “I Am My Sister 2, Inc.,” a wellness program in The Bronx, was also honored.

Her award was accepted by First Lady Donna Hobbs (Coney Island Cathedral). 

Finally, Shirley Edmunds Tanyhill, former director of the Coney Island Multi-Service Center and a beloved community leader who supported residents through housing, education and family crises, was posthumously honored by Diane Martinez.

Michael Bove, NIA president and founder, said that it was “an absolutely terrific day,” adding, “Without women, we’d be nowhere.”

Brannan noted that when you do a Women’s History Month event, people often focus on the women who paved the way, “but it’s also about celebrating the women making history right now,” he said. “Fifty years from now, when they are doing a Women’s History Month, hopefully, they’ll be talking about the people we honored today.”