ROCKLAND POST DESK
SPRING VALLEY — Democratic candidates running for Congress in New York’s 17th District met with members of Rockland County’s Haitian community this past weekend at Konbit Neg Lakay, a long-standing Haitian cultural and community organization in Spring Valley. The event gave residents a chance to hear directly from those hoping to unseat Republican Rep. Mike Lawler and discuss issues affecting their community.
Founded more than three decades ago, Konbit Neg Lakay’s mission centers on supporting and empowering Haitian residents while promoting cultural awareness and community engagement. The organization offers services such as citizenship preparation, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, homework help, youth development programs, computer literacy training, and assistance navigating health insurance and other social services. Its name reflects the Haitian Creole term konbit, a tradition of cooperation and collective action.
During the gathering, candidates addressed topics ranging from immigration reform and affordable housing to local economic development and access to social services. Attendees asked questions about how federal policies impact Haitian immigrants and their families, with several emphasizing the importance of fair representation in Congress.
Organizers said the event was part of an ongoing effort to engage the Haitian community in the political process, encouraging voter participation and dialogue with candidates. Residents expressed appreciation for the opportunity to hear directly from multiple candidates in one setting, rather than through media coverage alone.