Veteran Identity, Equity, and Justice in Focus at New York State Department of Veterans' Services Human Rights Conference at Fordham Law School on June 25

NEW YORK, June 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a time when the national dialogue around civil liberties and inclusion is evolving in profound and often polarizing ways, the New York State Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) will hold its 2025 Human Rights Conference on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at Fordham University Law School, Costantino Hall, 150 West 62^nd Street, New York, NY.

Themed Veils to Vision: Navigating Double Consciousness in the Veteran Experience, the conference will take an honest look at the complex intersections of identity, service, and social justice through the lens of Veterans from historically marginalized and underrepresented groups. Expert panels will examine both the challenges and opportunities in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion for Veterans.

"In an era where rights once considered secure are now being questioned, our conference serves as both a mirror and a megaphone," said DVS Commissioner Viviana M. DeCohen. "It reflects what many Veterans face and amplifies our responsibility as a state to continue standing strong for the dignity, safety, and humanity of every person who has worn the uniform."

As national policies increasingly marginalize communities that have long served in silence, the conference reaffirms New York's commitment to equity, truth, and representation. The conference is part of DVS's mission to ensure that New York's Veterans and Military Families receive not only the benefits they have earned but experience a genuine sense of belonging and justice in their daily lives.

The conference will include panel discussions on:

• Urgent Veteran policy issues in today's political climate.
• Federal rollbacks affecting LGBTQIA+ Veterans and their rights.
• Building and sustaining allyship for Veterans and Military Families in tumultuous times.

Additionally, the New York State Division of Human Rights will present a special tribute to James Zappalorti, a Staten Island Navy Combat Veteran murdered in an anti-gay hate crime in 1990. His tragic death helped spur the passage of New York's landmark hate crimes law.

The conference is free to attend and open to the public, but registration is required. Attendees can register at https://tinyurl.com/yncud4nt.

About the NYS Department of Veterans' Services

The NYS Department of Veterans' Services proudly serves New York's Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families, connecting them with benefits, services, and support. Visit www.veterans.ny.gov or call 1-888-838-7697.

Contact: Joshua Fitzpatrick, [email protected], (518) 419-4206

SOURCE New York State Department of Veterans' Services