New York, NY – On January 12, 2025, the Armenian Bar Association hosted a highly informative and
impactful Immigration Awareness Day at St. Vartan Armenian Church, New York, bringing together
community members and a panel of expert immigration attorneys. The event aimed to educate and
empower individuals on critical immigration issues, providing valuable insights into topics such as the
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), changes in administration, public benefits, deportation
concerns, and more. To ensure accessibility, the event offered multilingual support in English, Armenian,
Russian, Spanish, and Georgian, reflecting the diverse community in attendance.
The event featured several distinguished immigration attorneys who addressed urgent issues affecting
immigrants today, including Hasmik Vardanyan, Yuliya Sadyhyan, Lucy Magardichian, Elena Denevich
and Irina Hovhannisyan. Key discussions included the current state of DACA program, the implications
of the President’s stance on it, and the potential impact of recent administrative changes on immigration
policies and legal status. Attendees also learned about Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Lebanese
nationals, receiving crucial updates on eligibility and program status. Additionally, the event provided
guidance on immigrants’ rights and steps to take in the event of enforcement actions.
A standout feature of the day was the opportunity for one-on-one consultations, where attendees could
seek personalized guidance on their specific immigration situations. The services were provided pro bono
to the community. Immigration Awareness Day proved to be a valuable resource for the community,
equipping participants with expert advice and practical knowledge on complex immigration matters.
Attendees left the event better informed about their rights and the potential challenges they may face,
including how to respond to immigration enforcement.
The event was a resounding success, offering a vital platform for education, community engagement, and
empowerment on immigration issues. “With its multilingual presentations and personalized consultations,
it not only provided attendees with a clearer understanding of the current immigration landscape but also
gave them the tools to protect themselves and their families,” said Irina Hovhannisyan, Armenian Bar
Association Chapter Member and Immigration Law expert. As immigration policies continue to evolve,
events like this are essential for ensuring individuals and families stay informed and prepared for
whatever challenges may arise. Contact the Armenian Bar Association Pro Bono Clinic at
probono@ArmenianBar.org or 818-660-6898.
About the Armenian Bar Association:
The Armenian Bar Association is a professional and public outreach organization dedicated to advancing
the legal profession and promoting justice within the Armenian community. The ABA provides a range of
services, including continuing legal education, pro bono services, professional development, and
advocacy for legal reform.
