The Free Press Outstanding Community Organization is the Ohio Immigrant Alliance
This year's Free Press Outstanding Community Organization is the Ohio Immigrant Alliance (OIA). The OIA has been supporting the immigrant population in Ohio since 2007. Founded by Lynn Tramonte, the mission of OIA is to respond to overreaches in federal immigration law enforcement and advocate for a fairer, more dignified immigration system for all.
The OIA’s reports and investigations are published regularly on freepress.org., including how to close the Butler County Jail, ICE harassment of Haitians in Springfield, statistics on detentions and deportations, ICE agents’ criminal activity, and many more.
At the Free Press November 2026 Free Press Salon and Awards event, we will honor the Ohio Immigrant Alliance and three activists. The awards ceremony will happen Saturday, November 14 from 12:30-3:30pm at the Goodale Park Shelterhouse, indoors,
120 West Goodale St.
The Ohio Immigrant Alliance is a group of immigrants and U.S. born citizens working together to protect the dignity and rights of all individuals who choose to make Ohio their home — regardless of race, religion, gender expression, age, ability, and citizenship status. We engage in activism and volunteerism that connect communities, expanding our voices and our collective power to build the state and world we want to live in, together.
The act of migration is as old as time, and a basic part of being human. The decision to leave the place where you were born can be difficult and can take courage and love. The OIA welcomes people who have come to Ohio from other places and know that now, Ohio is home.
The OIA provides many resources for the community regarding how to deal with ICE, how to support immigrant families, and
- The OhioIsHome.org protection website
- Ohio Immigrant Hotline
- Working with detained immigrants, lawyers, and allies to end two ICE contracts with Ohio county jails during the first Trump administration — and fighting to do it again
- The Ohio Is My Second Country Coloring Book, Columbus Arts Festival events, and #BraveOfUS Immigrant Solidary Tattoo Contest
- Advocating for fair immigration policies and humane and dignified treatment
Learn more at ohioimmigrant.org.Donate; sign up for their email list; and purchase swag from their online store. Follow OIA on Threads, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
Other awardess at the event are We are happy to acknowledge the following 2026 awardees: Michel Coconis receiving the 2026 Free Press “Libby” Award for Lifetime Achievement in Community Activism, Stephen Molk with the 2026 Free Press Founder Award and Mahmoud El-Yousseph, our 2026 Free Press Reporter of the Year.
There will be light refreshments. This event is free and all are welcome. There is a parking lot available. For more information, contact: colsfreepress@gmail.com.
