About Upstate Independence
Upstate Independence is driven by a singular purpose: the establishment of an independent state in Upstate. Our motivation stems from a profound love for the region and a deep frustration with the rampant incompetence and corruption that characterizes New York State governance. We firmly believe that Upstate is a truly exceptional place, unlike anywhere else in the world. Its unmatched natural beauty encompasses iconic landmarks such as Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes, the Adirondacks, and the Hudson River Valley, to name just a few. Not long ago, it was a global cradle of innovation, home to pioneering companies like IBM, General Electric, and Kodak. Upstate possesses abundant natural resources and fertile farmland, yet its greatest asset, however, lies in its people. Those who have experienced life here know that Upstaters are some of the best people burdened with the worst state government.
It is this glaring contradiction that compelled us to form Upstate Independence and advocate for the creation of an independent state. On one hand, we see a region brimming with potential, an economic and cultural powerhouse fueled by a community that holds an unwavering love for their home. On the other hand, we witness a New York State government entrenched in corruption, grossly inept, and overwhelmingly focused on the interests of New York City.
At Upstate Independence, we envision ourselves as a vital information hub for politically conscious Upstaters and a unifying force for forward-thinking individuals throughout our region who share the vision of a brighter future. Our goal is to develop and actualize a new political vision specifically tailored to Upstate while actively identifying and connecting people who are dedicated to transforming this vision into a reality. Through grassroots initiatives, strategic advocacy, and active community engagement, we strive to raise awareness, garner support, and drive meaningful change.
We invite you to join us on this transformative journey towards a brighter future for Upstate. Whether you are an individual, business, or community organization, your participation and support are crucial in shaping the path towards the revitalization and flourishing of our region.
Together, we can reclaim the true potential of Upstate and forge a prosperous and independent future that reflects the values and aspirations of its remarkable people.
What We Do
Looking to get involved, but unsure where to start? Here are some ways you can take the first step.
Advocacy
We are committed to raising awareness about the issues faced by Upstate and advocating for its independence. We strive to be a strong voice for the region, ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of Upstate residents are heard and taken into account.
Information Hub
Our website serves as a valuable resource for those seeking information about the independence movement and its progress. We provide up-to-date news, informative blog posts, and details about upcoming events related to our cause. Stay informed and join the conversation!
Join the Cause
Committed to the vision of an independent Upstate, we advocate for economic prosperity and cultural recognition. Join us in our pursuit of self-governance and community upliftment.
Who Is Upstate Independence?
Upstate Independence is a non-profit organization dedicated to the vision of establishing an independent state in Upstate. Our mission is to advocate for the interests, rights, and unique identity of Upstaters, with the goal of fostering self-governance and creating a prosperous and sustainable future for our region.
We have a profound understanding of the challenges faced by Upstate, as well as the rich cultural heritage, natural resources, and economic opportunities that make this region truly special. Our vision is to create a platform where individuals, businesses, and communities can come together to actively shape the future of Upstate, working towards greater autonomy, sustainable development, and the enhancement of the quality of life for all residents.
Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and a commitment to open and honest dialogue, Upstate Independence aims to empower Upstate by providing a platform to voice their concerns, propose innovative solutions, and actively participate in the decision-making processes that impact our region’s future.
Join us on this exciting journey towards an independent Upstate, where the voices of our community are amplified, the potential is realized, and the pride in our shared home is celebrated.
Will You Help Save Upstate?
Support the cause of a strong, dynamic, and independent Upstate by generously donating to Upstate Independence. With our secure online donation portal, it’s simple to contribute and make a meaningful impact. Your financial support, regardless of the amount, plays a vital role in advancing our advocacy efforts. Join us in shaping the future of Upstate today.
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Independence
A Letter From Our Team
We wanted to take a moment to share with you the reasons behind the creation of Upstate Independence and why we are so passionate about its mission.
We founded Upstate Independence to take a positive, proactive step toward the creation of a political order that genuinely serves our families and communities. Our vision is a future where Upstate becomes a thriving hub of opportunity, attracting businesses, fostering economic growth, and offering a high quality of life to its residents. We envision Upstate Independence as the acorn that will eventually grow into a new state with a fundamentally different and improved political order. While it may seem unconventional in a political context, we envision Upstate Independence as akin to a startup company. We have identified an underserved market and idea within a ripe-for-disruption monopoly—the New York State government. Like the best startups, Upstate Independence will remain agile, lean, innovative, and disruptive. We will be scrupulous stewards of our donors’ funds, utilizing them efficiently to achieve our ultimate goal of an independent Upstate.
It has pained us to witness the dysfunction and incompetence displayed by the New York State government over the past several decades. Despite its remarkable cultural and economic potential, Upstate has been overlooked and underserved for far too long. Year after year, corruption scandals erupt in Albany, our cities rank near the bottom of national economic rankings, and a growing number of people are compelled to leave. Faced with this ongoing catastrophe, the response of our political class and institutions has been to perpetuate a failed status quo.
This frustration with the status quo, coupled with the realization that New York State is structurally broken and no longer serves the interests of Upstaters, has led us to the firm conviction that reform is no longer possible. Instead, our only chance at a brighter, more dynamic future is to start anew, govern ourselves, and seize ahold of our destiny. We are equally tired of the defeatist mindset that often pervades our communities—a world-weary pessimism that dismisses any possibility of improvement, uplift, and victory. This defeatism must be rejected along with the stale status quo of New York State.
Our co-founders, Jon and Alina Pierowicz, have a unique appreciation for what makes Upstate distinctive. Jon’s upbringing in Orchard Park, a stone’s throw from Buffalo, has deeply woven him into the community’s fabric where he remains active to this day. Alina’s arrival from Ukraine at the age of 6 has bestowed upon her a unique perspective, illuminating the boundless possibilities and latent potential of Upstate. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to call Upstate our home and feel a profound duty to help our region reach its full potential.
At its core, Upstate Independence was founded out of an abiding love for Upstate. This love will permeate everything we do and serve as the guiding light of our movement. We invite you to join us on this journey toward an independent Upstate.
Bio
Our founder, Jon Pierowicz grew up in Orchard Park, just south of Buffalo. He attended Wesleyan University before pursuing his legal education at the UCLA School of Law. Jon served as an Officer in the United States Marine Corps, deploying to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Today, he practices law in Buffalo, leveraging his expertise to contribute to the growth and flourishing of Upstate.
Alina Pierowicz came to Buffalo from her native Ukraine. She attended the University at Buffalo obtaining a degree in Biological Sciences graduating with honors before pursuing a career in real estate investment and management. Alina is an active philanthropist and the founder of Verax Real Estate, a premier real estate company serving Upstate.