By Ericka O’Connell, Roosevelt Island Daily
Coming Together for Safety and Support
Hello, friends! There’s an important event coming to our island this November that deserves every neighbor’s attention. On Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the Roosevelt Island Library at 504 Main Street will host a Domestic Violence Resource Fair, presented in partnership with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and State Senator Liz Krueger.
This gathering is part information session, part community connection — a space where residents can learn, listen, and find resources that could make a difference in someone’s life.
What to Expect
The evening begins with an open discussion on domestic violence, led by representatives from the Manhattan DA’s Office and community advocates. Around 5:30 p.m., the event transitions into a resource fair, where neighbors can connect directly with service providers, prevention programs, and support networks.
You can expect to:
- Meet local and citywide organizations offering survivor support and education
- Pick up informational materials on prevention and assistance programs
- Speak with representatives from the DA’s office and local partners
- Learn how to help friends, family, or neighbors in need
The fair runs through 7:30 p.m., and all are welcome to attend.
Why This Matters to Roosevelt Island
Domestic violence can affect anyone, anywhere — and creating safe spaces for dialogue and education is part of what keeps our community strong. Hosting this event right here on the Island makes an important statement: that our library isn’t just a place for books, but a beacon of connection, compassion, and care.
It’s also a chance to show solidarity. By learning, showing up, and sharing information, we become allies for one another. Whether you’re there to find help, to understand more, or simply to show support, your presence matters.
How to Get Involved
If you’d like to attend or have questions, contact Julia Maenza at MaenzaJ@dany.nyc.gov or 917-690-1282.
Here are a few simple ways you can help:
- Show up: Attend the fair and take part in the conversation.
- Spread the word: Share this with your neighbors and building groups.
- Support someone: Offer to go with a friend or neighbor who might want to attend but feels hesitant.
Together, we make Roosevelt Island a community where everyone feels seen, supported, and safe.
Events like this remind us that awareness and action start close to home. By opening our doors to education and empathy, we ensure that no one on Roosevelt Island feels alone in facing difficult challenges.
Let’s show up for each other, neighbors — because caring for our community is what truly makes the Island feel like home.
“I Can Ask”
Chair Fay Christian opened the Operations Advisory Committee on February 12th, reading out member names from a prepared sheet that omitted Melissa Wade. It didn’t feel intentional, but it struck me as odd precisely because it came from something prepared. Lydia Tang gently corrected her, noting that Wade was, in fact, a member of the committee. Wade met the moment with grace, or perhaps she simply wasn’t bothered by it.
