Julie Schwietert Collazo

Julie Schwietert Collazo is a creative arts therapist, writer, editor, and translator. Formerly, she was a social worker. Her work now mainly revolves around social activism and working towards bettering her community.

In June 2018, along with her husband, Francisco Collazo, Ms. Collazo founded what has evolved into Immigrant Families Together, an organization of rapid response volunteers who work against the Trump administration’s immigration policies, including zero tolerance and family separation.

In six short months, and almost entirely through social media, Ms. Collazo and IFT raised nearly a million dollars, and to date they have posted bond for more than 65 parents, grandparents, and older siblings who were detained by Immigration and separated from their children and families.

IFT also provides ongoing support and services for many of these families so that they can build a healthy, stable life for themselves as they undergo their asylum proceedings.

She is a sought-after speaker and commentator on immigration policy, migration, and resettlement issues.

Ms. Schwietert Collazo has been a resident of Long Island City since 2003.