Oma Deonarine’s story is a powerful testimony to the impact of resilience, education, and community engagement. As one of eight children in a family that immigrated from Guyana in 1969, she navigated the challenges and financial hardships of growing up in a large family in a poor neighborhood.
Oma’s career is marked by a commitment to justice and public service. She is currently serving as Court Attorney in Family Court, and previously worked as a Court Attorney to the Hon. Michael Sonberg in Manhattan Supreme Court, Criminal Term, for 15 years. Her educational journey began in the City University of New York (CUNY) system, where she earned a bachelor’s degree from the City College of New York, followed by a law degree from the City University of New York Law School
Oma’s professional career started as an Assistant District Attorney in Bronx County, where she prosecuted major felony cases, including murders, rapes, robberies, assaults, and drug offenses over an 11-year tenure. She then transitioned to the NYC Department of Correction at Rikers Island, focusing on litigating excessive use of force cases.
Her personal experiences as a child of immigrants and witnessing inequality and discrimination from a young age inspired her commitment to social justice. Her parents’ emphasis on hard work, education, and community service deeply influenced her path. This upbringing propelled her to mentor and tutor young people, work on literacy projects, support food banks and senior centers, promote partnerships, as well as collaborating with local organizations throughout the community.
Oma Deonarine stated, “My career hasn’t been about me, it’s been about serving the community. I’m looking to continue serving the community at the highest levels where it can really make a difference.”
Oma is active in her community. She has organized community meetings at the local library and facilitated community relations with law enforcement. Her dedication has earned her a place on the board of the Southeast Queens Chamber of Commerce, where she received the Renaissance Leader Community Award for her contributions. She is also a recipient of the Danny Glover Power of Dream Award.
Assemblyman David Weprin in the 24th Assembly District told NYCPolitics.com, “Oma is very well respected throughout the community, and she has been a strong advocate for our diverse community. I would love to see her as a judge. She would be a great addition to our judicial system.”
She is also active in the Indo-Caribbean Federation, the Indo-Caribbean Bar Association, and the South Ozone Park Civic Association (SOPCAW), continually lending her voice and expertise to her community.
