Foundation Seeks Support for Planned Ironbound Immigrants Memorial

NEWARK, NJ — The Ironbound Business Improvement District has joined with East Ward Councilman Augusto Amador and individuals and organizations from the East Ward and around the city of Newark to announce the formation of the Ironbound Immigrants Memorial Foundation.

The foundation is committed to the fulfillment of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute to the city of Newark’s 350th anniversary celebration in 2016 by comp

leting and erecting a statue to memorialize forever the individuals and families who are the foundation of the Ironbound’s past and future success. The goal is to raise more than $200,000 necessary to complete and install the memorial by the fall of this year.

Designed by local artist Camilo Satiro, a noted painter and sculptor, the memorial will be carved from marble and erected on the island located at the Five Corners intersection of Ferry Street, Wilson Avenue and Merchant Street that fronts historic St. Stephan’s Church.

“Newark’s Ironbound District has welcomed generations of immigrants from eastern and southern Europe and the Americas, including African Americans from our southern states, seeking freedom and opportunity,” stated Amador at a kickoff event recently at the Mediterranean Manor.

“It is estimated that more than 40 different ethnic communities call the Ironbound home; all have made important contributions, helping to build the Ironbound, Newark and New Jersey,” the councilman added. “Through their pursuit of the American Dream, a dream that for many began in this community, the Ironbound has become one of Newark’s leading neighborhoods for residents and visitors, with a thriving business district, acclaimed restaurants, safe and welcoming streets and respected cultural and artistic institutions.”

“We are proud to support the plan for this memorial because it salutes and respects the Ironbound’s most important asset — its people,” added Seth A. Grossman, the Ironbound Business Improvement District’s executive director. “The Ironbound is already one of Newark’s top destinations, and we believe this memorial, and the individuals and families who will be recognized through this work of art, will prove to be a powerful new reason to visit and support the foundation’s efforts and celebrate the past while embracing today’s Ironbound and its vibrant future.”

The Ironbound Business Improvement District will be managing the fundraising effort on behalf of the foundation and will join with the councilman and other committee members to host additional information sessions in the weeks ahead. For more information or to find out how to make a contribution to the memorial fund, contact the Ironbound Business Improvement District at 973-491-9191 or [email protected].

For more information on how to join and support the Ironbound Immigrants Memorial Foundation, contact Amador’s office at 973-733-3665.

  Ironbound