Background

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, and has also expanded its programs to take a more hands-on role in the Greater Hartford area.

Our Team

Board of Directors

K. Umesh Vig, Chair

Werner Oyanadel, Vice President

Adam M. Formus, Treasurer

Andre Blaszcynski

Robert Fishman

Dana Bucin

Edgar Johnson

Honorary Members:

Archbishop LeRoy Bailey Jr.

Dana Bucin

Alan Lazowski

Rabbi Philip Lazowski

Lucian Pawlak

Henry Zachs

Coalition Members

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

GHRRC
PAACT

Dr. Susan Levine

Susan Schnitzer

Zaheer Sharaf

Ex-officio Members:

Christopher George

Megan Torrey

About Us