Yemeni American Merchants Association

Grant Type: General Operating

Duration: January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022

Organization Overview

The Yemeni American Merchants Association (YAMA) is a community-based, multi-service organization that elevates Yemeni American merchants and their families through education, civil rights advocacy, business, and social service support.

Summary

YAMA emerged from the Yemeni Bodega Strike that brought together merchants from across New York City to protest Executive Order 13769 (the “Muslim Ban”). YAMA has made tremendous strides in organizing the Yemeni American community to challenge unjust immigration policies, educating the community about its rights, and advocating for individuals facing specific immigration visa challenges. They serve as a critical local partner in the national #NoMuslimBanEver campaign. In 2019, YAMA began providing one-on-one immigration case assistance to their clients. In 2020, they spearheaded a citywide Census campaign that reached over 138,738 people. They also provided critical services to small business owners and low-income families impacted financially by the pandemic. Now, YAMA is leading federal advocacy efforts to pass the No Ban Act and fight for Diversity Visa winners who have not been able to enter the U.S. because of the Muslim Ban.

Year founded: 2017

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Website: http://www.yamausa.org/