ABOUT US

Founded in 1996, the Connecticut Immigrant & Refugee Coalition (CIRC) is a nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) registered nonprofit based in Hartford whose central mission is to serve Connecticut’s dynamic community of immigrants. CIRC has evolved and expanded over its 25+ years to meet the current needs of the community, utilizing advocacy and direct support.

CIRC is a vast coalition of members who are deeply committed to welcoming refugees and fostering civic participation in topics of immigration reform. CIRC has partnered with its network of community organizations for over 25 years, leading grassroots efforts, building a more equitable community, and fighting for the rights of immigrants, refugees, and their children.

Today, CIRC continues to participate in local and federal policy advocacy, is developing immigrant workforce initiatives, and is expanding its programs across the state.

Board of Directors

Werner Oyanadel, Chair
Bio

K. Umesh Vig, Vice President
Bio

Adam M. Formus, Treasurer
Bio

Andre Blaszcynski
Bio

Dana Bucin
Bio

Ray da Rosa
Bio

Robert Fishman
Bio

Edgar Johnson
Bio

Dr. Susan Levine
Bio

Aicha Ly
Bio

Susan Schnitzer
Bio

Zaheer Sharaf
Bio

Honorary Members:
Archbishop Christopher J. Coyne
Alan Lazowski
Rabbi Philip Lazowski
Lucian Pawlak
Henry Zachs

Ex-officio Members:
Christopher George
Megan Torrey

Coalition Members

CIRC is a proud coalition of businesses and organizations who advocate together for the rights of immigrants and refugees in Connecticut.

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