Columbia County Sanctuary Movement - Creatives Rebuild New York

A group of individuals gathered in front of an ornate mansion, displaying banners and signs as part of a protest or demonstration. Participants are bundled in winter clothing, indicating cold weather. The mansion, characterized by its elaborate architectural style and large size, serves as the backdrop, separated from the group by a tall wrought iron fence with pillars. The group's signs and banners contain messages and illustrations, one of which reads "#CoverAllKids." Snow or frost is visible on the ground, reflecting a wintry setting.

Rally for #CoverageForAll

Photo by Tony Ramirez

A diverse group of people standing on a grand, ornately decorated staircase in what appears to be a government building or significant public venue. The architecture features intricately carved sandstone pillars and railings, with decorative lamps hanging overhead. The group is holding various signs, with messages related to advocacy, community, and social issues. Many of the participants wear matching t-shirts and blue beanies, suggesting they are part of an organized event. The atmosphere is one of solidarity and activism, with smiling faces and group unity emphasized.

Photo by Tony Ramirez

Two people working in a kitchen setting, with backs turned to the camera. The focus is on one person's black t-shirt, which has a quote from Malcolm X printed on it: 'ALL REVOLUTION IS BASED ON LAND.' Both individuals are wearing hats, and the atmosphere suggests a busy and functional kitchen environment. Large cooking equipment is visible, including a sizable pot on a countertop and a range hood above. The scene conveys a mix of culinary activity and a strong social message.

Photo by Tony Ramirez

Several individuals are engaged in a farming or gardening activity outdoors. A person in the foreground, wearing a maroon beanie and glasses, crouches down, handling straw or hay. Behind them, another person dressed in an orange sweater works with a pile of similar material. The group seems focused on their task in a field surrounded by trees, displaying autumn foliage with a mix of green, yellow, and orange leaves. A blue wheelbarrow is visible in the background, and the weather appears to be clear and sunny, suggesting a pleasant day for outdoor work.

Photo by Tony Ramirez

The Collaboration

Tony Ramirez collaborated with the Columbia County Sanctuary Movement to produce bilingual instructional videos as resources for the local immigrant community. As the collaboration progressed, the project evolved to include documentary work, legal help, presentations, promo videos, graphic design support, interactive video production, and more. The partnership gave Tony a new opportunity to make a full-time job out of creative media work.

The Organization

Columbia County Sanctuary Movement organizes with immigrants and allies to collectively support, empower, and defend our communities. CCSM was founded in rural NY so we could build a base, create direct service infrastructure, and support a political home for immigrants. Since the beginning, we have utilized a service and organizing model that engages our community of members directly in our work.

Collaborating on this grant has allowed me to push boundaries and explore new dimensions in my work, ultimately leading to a creation that is richer and more vibrant than I could have imagined on my own. Tony Ramirez

This collaboration has been a powerful testament to our community's creativity and unity. It’s not just about the art; it’s about coming together, sharing our unique perspectives, and creating something that reflects the heart and soul of our collective spirit.

Artists

Tony Ramirez

Location

Hudson, NY

Communities Served

Criminal Legal System-involved

Immigrant

Rural