On June 7, 2026, friends, supporters, activists, community leaders and students, gathered at Fairways at Dunwoodie in Yonkers to celebrate the 52nd Anniversary of WESPAC and to honor two outstanding organizations that have strengthened grassroots democracy and progressive activism throughout our region: NYCD16/15 Indivisible and the Lower Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America.
The afternoon was a powerful reminder that meaningful social change is built through persistence, solidarity, and community. At a time when many people feel discouraged by political polarization, economic inequality, threats to democracy, and ongoing social injustice, the gathering affirmed the enduring importance of grassroots organizing and collective action.
Honoring NYCD16-15 Indivisible
WESPAC was proud to recognize NYCD16-15 Indivisible for its extraordinary commitment to civic engagement and democratic participation. The organization was founded during a snowstorm in January 2017, when a group of concerned friends came together to discuss how to resist the Trump agenda and protect democratic institutions. Inspired by the original Indivisible Guide, they launched what would become one of the region’s most effective grassroots organizations.
From those humble beginnings, NYCD16/15 Indivisible has grown to more than 1,200 members and has become a powerful force for electoral and legislative reform in Westchester County and the North Bronx. Early victories included successfully lobbying then-Congressman Eliot Engel not to participate in symbolic gestures legitimizing the Trump administration and organizing a town hall at the College of Mount Saint Vincent that drew more than 800 participants to discuss social justice issues.
The organization played a significant role in efforts to end the control of the Independent Democratic Conference in Albany, helping secure a true Democratic majority in the New York State Legislature and paving the way for numerous progressive reforms. Through its many committees and partnerships with allied organizations, NYCD16-15 Indivisible continues to serve as a vehicle for civic engagement, legislative advocacy, and electoral organizing.
Honoring the Lower Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America
WESPAC also proudly honored the Lower Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America, a regional chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America and a growing force for social and economic justice throughout Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, and surrounding counties.
The chapter brings together individuals committed to building a more democratic, equitable, and compassionate society rooted in solidarity, economic democracy, and collective action. Through grassroots organizing, political education, tenant advocacy, mutual aid, labor solidarity, and electoral engagement, the Lower Hudson Valley DSA has worked tirelessly to advance affordable housing, universal healthcare, immigrant rights, racial justice, Palestinian freedom, labor rights, and climate justice.
By empowering ordinary people to organize collectively and advocate for community-led solutions, the chapter has become an important voice for progressive change throughout the Hudson Valley and an indispensable coalition partner in many local and regional campaigns.
A Powerful Keynote from Zephyr Teachout
The celebration was further enriched by an inspiring keynote address from Professor Zephyr Teachout of Fordham University School of Law, one of the nation’s leading voices on democracy, corruption, and monopoly power.
Professor Teachout is the author of numerous influential scholarly works and landmark books, including Corruption in America: From Benjamin Franklin’s Snuff Box to Citizens United and Break ‘Em Up: Recovering Our Freedom from Big Ag, Big Tech, and Big Money. Her scholarship has shaped national conversations about antitrust law, political corruption, and democratic accountability, and has been cited by Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens in his dissent in the Citizens United case.
Drawing from her work challenging concentrated corporate power, Professor Teachout spoke passionately about the growing threat posed by monopolies and the ways corporate consolidation affects the daily lives of working people. Her story about a rideshare driver who had lost meaningful control over his own livelihood deeply resonated with attendees and illustrated the human consequences of unchecked economic power.
Most importantly, she left the audience with a message of hope and responsibility: that meaningful change comes from people who are willing to tell the truth, organize their communities, build grassroots power, and remain steadfast in their commitment to democracy and justice.
Music, Community, and Gratitude
The event was beautifully enhanced by the music of Paul Gross and Diane Gross of the band Avalanche at Dawn. Their generous volunteer performance helped create a warm and joyful atmosphere that reminded us that movements for social change are sustained not only by activism but also by community, culture, and human connection. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Paul and Diane for sharing their remarkable talents and helping make the afternoon so memorable.
Thank You
As WESPAC marks its 52nd year, we are reminded that our accomplishments are only possible because of the thousands of people who have supported our work over the decades. We extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who attended the celebration, purchased tickets, sponsored the event, volunteered their time, donated resources, and stood with us throughout the year.
We will create a dedicated space on our website where you can learn about this year’s and previous years’ honorees, and also view our awards journal with our sponsors.
For more than half a century, WESPAC has worked to educate, organize, and advocate for peace, justice, environmental sustainability, economic democracy, and human rights. The challenges before us remain significant, but gatherings like this remind us that we are not alone. Together, we continue to build the relationships, institutions, and movements necessary to create a more just and compassionate world.
Thank you for being part of the WESPAC community and for helping carry this work forward into the future.
Nada
