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Austin Interfaith readies for accountability session
Group members hope to turn anger into action
By By Ramiro G. Hinojosa (Daily Texan Staff)
AIF, a multi-ethnic issue-driven organization, was founded in 1985 to connect community institutions for the improvement of the Austin community. The AIF members discussed their community agendas and shared their accomplishments within local organizations throughout the Austin area. Participants vented their anger with policies affecting their respective communities, but also expressed pride in how AIF was confronting social issues with its grass-roots tactics. Carol Darby, co-chairwoman of AIF, said nothing can be improved if the community fails to act. "We are here because we understand that this is an opportunity to have a say in the future of Texas," Darby said. "We understand that we must be active citizens and take responsibility for our community and our schools. Tonight, let's turn that outrage into action." Shirley Martinez, with the Capital IDEA Members Association, an adult job training program, said AIF leaders have been meeting with the mayor for additional program funding and have received an added $40,000. The group supports policies that will positively affect education, housing, health care, immigration and economic justice. AIF wants the development of an equal public education system that ensures all schools have equal facilities and sufficient resources. Regina Rogoff, AIF co-chairwoman, said the organization's goal is to push these issues to the forefront at their meeting in September, during which Texas candidates will be asked to take a stance on certain issues affecting Texas. "We want to have major statewide candidates respond to our agendas," Rogoff said. The Texan strives to present all information fairly, accurately and completely.
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