ERASE Racism's New President Takes Office

SYOSSET, NY — Long Island's ERASE Racism swore in its new president this week. Laura Harding, Esq., takes over the non-profit from President Elaine Gross, who led the organization for its 21-year history and becomes President Emeritus and a consultant to ERASE Racism. Gross informed the board more than a year ago of her plan to retire.

Harding is an advocate, attorney and public administrator with extensive experience advancing racial justice, equity and inclusion. She brings extraordinary experience in a wide range of areas that relate directly to ERASE Racism’s advocacy and programs — especially in public education, housing, and other aspects of public policy. She brings a depth of knowledge in effective approaches to addressing structural racism and enabling systems change to impact government and school policies.

Her professional expertise encompasses program planning and implementation and has centered access to quality services and opportunities for under-served communities for school-age children and families eligible for affordable housing.

Harding also understands Long Island, its history and its opportunities. She earned her undergraduate degree at Adelphi University in Garden City, where she currently has a consultancy as a facilitator in the Diversity Certificate Partnership Program, training Long Island residents about diversity, equity and inclusion.