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.

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.

05/09/2026

🚨 Brooklyn homeowners — this one’s for you!

Did you know a home or any asset, can be taken without the owner even realizing what’s happening until it’s too late?�
Next Saturday, V.I.D.A presents “The Silent Takeover of Brooklyn Homes” — an important community conversation about protecting your property, understanding your rights, and staying informed.

Join guest speaker Audra J. Barrow, Esq., along with community leaders who are working to keep Brooklyn homeowners educated and empowered.

📍 Restoration Plaza — 1368 Fulton Street�🗓 Saturday, May 16th�⏰ 11:00 AM

Knowledge is protection. Bring your questions, bring your neighbors, and don’t miss this conversation.

05/08/2026

Your home is more than property — it’s your legacy.

Join us for an important community conversation on protecting your assets from illegal property takeovers, deed theft, and housing fraud.

Learn your rights, ask questions, and get empowered with real information from legal and community leaders.

📍 Restoration Plaza – 1368 Fulton St, Brooklyn
🗓 Saturday, May 16
⏰ 11:00 AM (Immediately following the V.I.D.A. meeting)

Featuring special guest speaker Audra J. Barrow, Esq. and community leadership committed to protecting our neighborhoods.

Knowledge is protection. Awareness is power. Don’t let silence cost you your home. RSVP using the link in our bio 🔗

05/07/2026

Great energy, great people, and a room full of community power 💫

Last Wednesday, VIDA gathered at Hatch BK for an incredible Meet & Greet in support of the re-election of District Leaders/NY State County Committee members Henry Butler and Kenesha Traynham-Cooper.

From meaningful conversations to community fellowship, the evening was a reminder that strong leadership and grassroots organizing continue to move Brooklyn forward. Our District Leaders continue to show up and do the everyday work to uplift our community, advocate for residents, and help ensure every voice is heard.

Thank you to everyone who came out, connected, and stood with leaders committed to service, empowerment, and progress.

VIDA is the place to be. ✨

04/27/2026

District Leader Butler can’t stop, won’t stop. Yesterday, he was outside on his birthday, talking to neighbors in community about what’s on the ballot!

This is community work.

04/26/2026

AD 56 has proven leaders who have been showing up and will continue to show up and stand tall for community. This leadership in community isn’t built on hashtags, it’s built on proven results.

Meet your District Leaders this Wednesday at the April VIDA mixer because V.I.D.A is tested & trusted.

04/20/2026

Yesterday, we kicked off our weekly canvassing, meeting neighbors in the community. This is a coordinated effort. This is a community effort.

We’ll win this together! Make sure you lock in with us & sign up to volunteer using the link in our bio. We need your help.

VIDA is the place to be!

Address

399 Tompkins Avenue
Brooklyn, NY
11216

Telephone

+13477650826

Website

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

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