Marwa Janini: Palestinian-American Leader Appointed to Key Immigrant Affairs Committee in New York
Director of AAANY brings Arab-American voices into New York’s immigrant policy and civil society planning.
When Palestinian-American activist Marwa Janini was appointed to a transitional committee focused on immigrant affairs and civil society, it marked a significant moment for Arab communities across New York. Her selection reflects not only her long-standing dedication to immigrant advocacy but also the growing recognition of Arab social leadership in shaping public policy.
Strengthening Arab-American Support Systems in New York
As the Executive Director of the Arab-American Association of New York (AAANY), Janini oversees one of the most influential community organizations serving Arabs in Brooklyn and surrounding neighborhoods.
For years, AAANY has filled critical gaps in government services—helping families navigate immigration systems, access healthcare, secure language support, and build political power in a city where Arabs are often underrepresented.
Janini’s leadership is particularly important at a moment when immigrant communities face heightened challenges: shifts in federal immigration policies, rising economic pressures, and increased demand for culturally competent social services. Under her direction, AAANY has expanded not only its outreach but also its political engagement efforts, ensuring that Arab voices are heard in citywide and statewide decision-making.
A Growing Role for Arab-American Leadership
Her appointment to the transitional committee signals a broader shift: Arab-American leaders are increasingly influencing the direction of policy debates related to immigration, civil rights, and community safety. Janini’s work bridges grassroots organizing with institutional policy change, positioning her as a critical figure in the evolving landscape of New York’s diverse immigrant communities.
For many Arab families—Palestinian, Yemeni, Egyptian, Syrian, Moroccan, Algerian, and beyond—AAANY represents more than a service provider. It is a cultural anchor, a safe haven, and a civic training ground. With Janini at the helm, the organization continues to advocate for justice, equity, and dignity for all immigrants, especially those navigating linguistic, legal, and economic barriers.
Her new role allows her to bring these community needs directly to policymakers, ensuring that the lived experiences of Arab immigrants help guide the next phase of New York’s approach to inclusion and civil society development. For many, Janini symbolizes what Arab community leadership can achieve when rooted in both activism and compassion.
