March marks the beginning of Women’s History Month and this year’s theme, which is “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion,” celebrates women who understand the importance of eliminating bias and discrimination entirely from our lives for a positive future. There are so many incredible women to celebrate and honor not just during Women’s History Month, but every day.
It’s important to recognize and highlight Sister Marion Agnes Daniel, who founded Nazareth Housing in 1983 as part of the urban homesteading movement on the Lower East Side. At that time, 13 abandoned buildings were rehabilitated to create safe and secure housing for vulnerable community residents. Nazareth Housing developed services of outreach, advocacy, and community empowerment to prevent homelessness. Her critical grassroots efforts and compassion for people helped shape the quality of life in the Lower East Side – and we continue to honor her commitment to service as we expand our homelessness prevention services to meet the critical needs of underserved New Yorkers.
The Lower East Side is where our story began, and Lillian D. Wald played a vital role in helping to bring affordable health care to the residents of the Lower East Side. She wore many hats including being a nurse, social worker, public health official, teacher, author, editor, publisher, woman’s rights activist, and the founder of American community nursing. Her understanding of how income inequality was linked to poor health positively impacted the future of so many New Yorkers. And, ensuring our clients have access to healthy food options at Louise’s Pantry has the potential to impact long term health outcomes in areas with high rates of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.