Vanguard Independent Democratic Association

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Vanguard Independent Democratic Association

Please email [email protected] to receive regular announcements and meeting notices! Henry L. Butler, President

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS
Hon. Annette M.

*Who is VIDA?*
VIDA is an organization of active and involved citizens from diverse backgrounds dedicated to building a better community for today and for the future.

*A Short History of VIDA*
The origins of VIDA go back to the 1960s, and the struggle for “community control” of the schools, waged by parents and educators of the Central Brooklyn Community. In 1972, Central Brooklyn residents draft

ed Al Vann, then head of the African American Teachers Association, to run for State Assembly. In that year’s general election, Vann pulled an unprecedented 2,000+ votes under the Vanguard Independent Party in the community which had registered overwhelmingly Democratic. The same organization which originated in the struggles of the 1960s and led the charge for meaningful political change in the 1970s continues today as the Vanguard Independent Democratic Association (VIDA), Inc.

*VIDA Philosophy and Purpose*
The basic philosophy of VIDA is “Community Empowerment.” This means sincere emphasis on community progress and advancement: promoting the interests of the many, as opposed to promoting the interests of a few. We achieve this broad goal by:

1) Developing maximum community participation in the political process through voter registration and political education;
2) Developing maximum community input in policy-making and decisions that affect our community;
3) Developing and supporting political representation that is of, by, and for the community;
4) Developing community control of elected officials and local institutions to insure that they are responsive to the needs of the community, and;
5) Organizing the community to gain and exercise power so that it will receive its fair share of goods and services. Albert Vann
Hon. Robinson
Hon. Robert E. Cornegy, Jr.

09/05/2026

This is only a small portion of V.I.D.A’s expansive history in Bed-Stuy spanning more than 50 years!

The next V.I.D.A general body meeting is on September 15th at 7pm at restoration plaza. Come join us to learn more in person!

08/26/2026

For over 50 years, VIDA has helped organize voters, develop Black political leadership, and build power in Central Brooklyn.

This is the story of a community that decided it deserved a seat at the table …and kept building.

07/04/2026

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Frederick Douglass’s question still challenges us: Who gets to share fully in the promise of freedom, opportunity, and dignity?

This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice; I must mourn.” — Frederick Douglass

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Douglass’s words remind us that freedom is not a finished achievement—it is an ongoing responsibility.

While we honor the progress of the last 250 years, we also recognize that the promise of liberty, justice, and opportunity is still not fully shared by everyone.

We need your help. What can we do—together—to make the American Dream more accessible for all?

06/23/2026

🗳️ 2 HOURS LEFT TO VOTE!

Every vote matters and every voice counts. If you haven’t cast your ballot yet, there’s still time to make your voice heard. Head to the polls before they close and encourage your family, friends, and neighbors to do the same.

06/19/2026

Today, VIDA honors and celebrates Juneteenth — a day that marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a powerful reminder that freedom, justice, and opportunity must continue to be advanced for all communities.

Juneteenth is both a celebration of resilience and a call to action. As we reflect on our history, we recommit ourselves to civic engagement, community empowerment, and building a future rooted in equity and progress.

May we continue to educate, organize, uplift, and create pathways for generations to come.

Happy Juneteenth.

Brooklyn

06/08/2026

What’s at stake with the Black vote? Find out tonight at our special general body meeting with special guest .

It’s virtual, so you can log on right before the game begins.

06/07/2026

Early voting begins June 13th. Are you ready?

Join us for a special virtual general body meeting tomorrow at 7 PM to discuss the State of the Black vote in our Districts.

We’ll make sure to be off in time for the Knicks game. KNICKS IN FOUR! 🧡💙

05/25/2026

Want to meet the potential judges on the ballot? ⚖️

Tomorrow, join us for our end-of-month mixer featuring candidates who could soon hold power on the bench. Come connect, ask questions, and hear directly from those seeking a seat.

📍 Cheri’s Bedstuy
🕡 6:30 PM

Bring a friend, share with your network, and we’ll see you there!

05/18/2026

On Saturday, VIDA brought together members and community advocates for meaningful dialogue centered on civic engagement, legal education, and housing justice.

Our May General Body Meeting featured a timely presentation by the VIDA Legal Committee, “Dissecting the Recent Decision from the Supreme Court on Voting Rights,” where participants explored the broader implications of the ruling and its impact on voting access, civic participation, and our communities.

Following the meeting, we gathered at Restoration Plaza for “Stop the Silent Takeover of Brooklyn Homes,” where guest speaker Audra J. Barrow provided valuable insight on homeowner rights, deed theft prevention, protecting assets, and safeguarding housing within Brooklyn communities.

These conversations reinforced the importance of staying informed, recognizing housing-related risks, and working collectively to protect our neighborhoods.

VIDA remains committed to continuing to support, educate, and advocate for our communities, ensuring residents are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to protect their rights and strengthen our collective future.

Thank you to all who participated and contributed to these important discussions.

Address

399 Tompkins Avenue
Brooklyn, NY
11216

Telephone

+13477650826

Website

http://vidabk.com/, http://VIDASPRINGSOIREE2026.EVENTBRITE.COM/

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