​Open New York Learning Studio is a new series with the goal of building connections and community while learning together.

​This month's Learning Studio will feature ONY members in small group discussions. This won't be a panel, but rather a few rotations of discussions, so you can dive deep on the topics you're most interested in, ask dumb questions (JK, there are no dumb questions!), and tap into our membership's collective expertise.

​Member experts include:

• ​Jesse Lang, Housing and Transportation Policy Analyst, Office of the Manhattan Borough President, Mark Levine: Jesse's day job is in the office of one of our city's highest profile pro-housing elected officials. Jesse has insights into how policymakers champion housing initiatives, navigate local government, and drive legislative changes to address our housing shortage.

• ​Zachary Thomas, Member of Community Board 3, Parks Committee: Data scientist and software engineer by day, weighing in on parks and zoning by night. Ask Zachary community boards' role in the ULURP process, how community input shapes decisions about development, and how advocates can influence local policy implementation.

• ​Salvatore Palma, Digital Advocacy Expert:
  Salvatore is a social media strategist who leverages digital platforms to engage, mobilize, and amplify housing advocacy efforts. As the brain behind Open New York’s Instagram and a key contributor to campaigns across our other social platforms, Salvatore works to shift the narrative on housing by humanizing the issue and making solutions not only more relatable but also emotionally impactful. Ask Salvatore how to use social media tools to rally support and enhance reach and visibility!

​What to expect

​6:30 - Snacks, mingling

​7:00 - Small group discussion rotations with member experts

​8:30 - Close