Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - June 2025
Caribbean American Heritage Month
Honoring a Vibrant Legacy, Celebrating a Powerful Presence
Each June, the United States officially recognizes the invaluable contributions of millions of Caribbean Americans with the observance of Caribbean American Heritage Month, a celebration deeply rooted in history, cultural pride, and national significance.
Formally adopted by the U.S. Congress in 2006, following years of advocacy led by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, the resolution designating June as Caribbean American Heritage Month became a landmark in acknowledging the long-overlooked influence of Caribbean people in shaping American life. The month now serves as both a reflection of the past and a celebration of the present-day vibrancy of the Caribbean American community.
Caribbean immigrants have played a crucial role in the evolution of the United States for more than two centuries. From early migration waves in the 19th and 20th centuries to the booming influx of professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs in recent decades, Caribbean Americans have brought with them a powerful legacy of resilience, cultural depth, and civic engagement.
Trailblazers such as Shirley Chisholm, the daughter of Barbadian and Guyanese immigrants and the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress. ....cont'd on pg. # 5.
Orlando Carnival Downtown
Weekend 2025
This year’s Orlando Carnival Downtown (OCD) 2025 delivered an unforgettable weekend of Caribbean culture, pulsating rhythms, colorful costumes, and joyful unity — despite Mother Nature throwing her most extreme challenges our way.
The multi-day celebration kicked off in spectacular fashion with Carnival on the Runway, an electrifying display of fashion, flair, and mas band magic. Masqueraders lit up the catwalk with
dazzling costume previews, setting the tone for a weekend steeped in style and cultural pride.
On Saturday, revelers embraced the sunrise at J’ouvert, Orlando’s beloved early-morning paint, powder, and water fete. Tinker Field exploded with color as thousands danced to the beat of soca and celebrating freedom, release, and the pure joy - Ct'd Pg 8
Samuel J. Roberts, Publisher/Editor
Two Parties Aren’t Enough: Why Real Democracy Demands More Voices
In an age where we demand diversity in our workplaces, media, community, and institutions, why do we settle for so little of it in our politics?
Every election cycle, we’re told the same thing: choose a side. Red or Blue, Green or Orange, Left or right, Us or them. But as our society grows and the World evolves, there is more diversity in our ideas, in our values, and in our needs, we must ask, why do our politics remain stuck in such a narrow binary?
In theory, democracy is meant to give voice to the people. In practice, a two-party system silences too many of them.
From Congress to local councils, and from Parliament chambers to presidential ballots, winner-take-all politics has created a political monopoly that rewards partisanship over progress, and loyalty to party over service to people. The result? Gridlock, disillusionment, and a growing divide between government and the governed.
The dominance of two political parties might bring a sense of stability, but it also enforces a false choice. Not every voter fits neatly into “liberal” or “conservative” boxes. People’s beliefs, about climate change, healthcare, education, civil liberties, the economy, are nuanced. Yet they’re forced into a system that flattens complexity into competition.
The consequence? Millions of Americans feel politically homeless. Voters are disenchanted, young people are disengaged, and viable third-party candidates are marginalized before they even reach a debate stage.
The strength of a democracy is not measured by how loudly two sides can argue, it’s measured by how many voices are heard, how many perspectives are included, and how well policy reflects the real lives of the people.
A multi-party system brings more than just choice. It brings accountability. It forces coalitions, compromises, and genuine negotiation, not just partisan performance. More political representation means more pressure to actually govern, not just campaign.
We’ve seen this globally: in countries with proportional representation and ranked choice voting, lawmakers are incentivized to work together. No one party can govern alone, which means consensus becomes a necessity, not a PR stunt.
To break the monopoly of two-party dominance, we must first recognize it as a structural problem, not just a cultural one. Winner-take-all elections discourage competition and consolidate power. Reforming our systems by implementing ranked-choice voting, opening access to third-party candidates, reforming debate qualifications, and eliminating gerrymandering can help restore fairness and broaden the political conversation.It’s not about
weakening the two existing parties. It’s about strengthening democracy by giving voters more authentic choices, and by creating room for new ideas, new leadership, and new coalitions that reflect modern realities.
In an era marked by rapid change economically, socially, and environmentally, it is dangerous to assume that two political ideologies alone can provide all the answers. We need fresh thinking, independent perspectives, and issue-driven platforms that aren’t trapped in a tug-of-war between red and blue, the green an the orange...etc.
Diverse governance reflects a diverse electorate. And in a true democracy, no one ideology should dominate the conversation. No party should hold the people hostage to their dysfunction.
The people deserve more than two choices. Democracy deserves more than two voices. Let’s move beyond the old binary and build a political system where the table is bigger, the dialogue is broader, and the outcome serves not just the winners, but all of us. Until more voices are invited to the table, we’re not really having the conversation we deserve. It’s time for a political system that looks like the people,not just the parties.
Copyright (C) GGR Marketing & Public Relations. All rights reserved.
Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher/Editor
REAL ESTATE WITH KADEEM
Why the Right Real Estate Agent is More Than Just a Closer: They’re a Long-Term Partner in Your Future
In today’s fast-moving real estate market, it’s easy to get caught up in flashy listings, quick deals, and agents who promise the world just to close a sale. But for savvy buyers and sellers, especially those thinking beyond just the next sale, the key to real success lies in choosing a real estate agent who’s in it for the long haul, not just the commission.
The right real estate agent doesn’t just help you buy or sell a property, they help you build a real estate strategy that fits your long-term goals. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer looking to grow your family, an investor building a portfolio, or a seller trying to time the market right, a true professional sees beyond today’s transaction. They ask the right questions:
• Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
• Are you looking for equity growth, rental income, or lifestyle flexibility?
• What kind of properties align with your life goals?
This strategic mindset makes all the difference. It’s not just about helping you find a house, it’s about helping you create a foundation for your future.
A high-quality real estate agent has deep roots in the market. They understand neighborhood trends, upcoming developments, school districts, and shifts in buyer demand. But more importantly, they can explain how these trends affect your unique position, and they’ll never push a deal that doesn’t make sense for your budget or vision.
Working with an agent who cares about building trust and growing with you means you’ll have someone in your corner through every stage of your real estate journey. That’s not just service, it’s a partnership.
In a world where deals can be fast and impersonal, working with the right real estate agent gives you the confidence that you’re not just another number on a sales board. You’re a valued client with goals, dreams, and a future worth planning for.
So take your time. Interview agents. Look for someone who listens more than they talk, who educates instead of pushes, and who sees your success as their success.
Because in real estate, as in life, the right partner makes all the difference.
Whether the market is hot, cooling, or somewhere in between, your agent should be your guide, not your salesperson. They should keep you informed, grounded, and confident, not pressured.
The agents that stand out are those who invest in relationships, not transactions. They return your calls after closing. They check in months or years later to ask how things are going. They send you market updates, connect you to reliable contractors, and help you prepare for your next move—whether it’s around the corner or across the country.
Give me a call, let's grab lunch and talk real estate. I am confident that I'm the rightrealestateagentforyou.
Let'stalk-407-780-7364
Caribbean American Heritage Month
Honoring a Vibrant Legacy, Celebrating a Powerful Presence
Shirley Chisholm helped redefine American politics. Meanwhile, figures like Stokely Carmichael of Trinidad and Tobago galvanized the civil rights movement with unwavering passion. The list continues, in sports, education, business, health care, and the arts, with names like Patrick Ewing, Colin Powell, Wyclef Jean, and Rihanna all representing the extraordinary global reach of Caribbean talent.
Caribbean American Heritage Month is more than a nod to history; it is a vibrant celebration of the rhythms, flavors, and customs that Caribbean people have infused into American culture and right here in Central Florida.
From reggae, soca, and calypso to the rise of Caribbean culinary influence, from Carnival traditions to storytelling and spoken word, the Caribbean American experience is a dynamic fusion of African, Indigenous, European, and Asian cultures, a living expression of global connection.
Events across the country, including festivals, panel discussions, flag-raising ceremonies, and community forums, highlight the diversity and unity of the Caribbean diaspora, which includes communities from Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Haiti, Barbados, The Bahamas, Grenada, Guyana, Saint Lucia, the Dominican Republic, and beyond.
In a nation built by immigrants, the contributions of Caribbean Americans remain essential to the broader American narrative. Caribbean communities have consistently enriched national discourse, strengthened the economy, and expanded the reach of American influence abroad.
Yet, despite these contributions, the stories of Caribbean Americans are too often underrepresented in mainstream media, textbooks, and public history. Caribbean American Heritage Month is a corrective, a time to amplify those voices and ensure that young Caribbean Americans see their heritage reflected, respected, and uplifted.
As we look toward the future, Caribbean American Heritage Month also serves as a call to action: to preserve cultural identity, to empower the next generation, and to strengthen Caribbean American political, economic, and social influence.
Cont’d from pg. 1
Organizations across the country, including Caribbean chambers of commerce, diaspora alliances, cultural collectives, and media outlets, continue to lead the charge, keeping Caribbean heritage alive and visible, not just in June, but year-round.
This month, as we raise our flags, play our music, and share our stories, we affirm a simple truth:
Caribbean Americans are not just a part of America’s story, we are essential to it.
Celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month with us! Follow our coverage all month long at [Caribbean American Passport News Magazine]
SENIOR LIVING
A SUPPLEMENT COURTESY OF WELLCARE
Get Paid as a Caregiver for a Family Member: What You Need to Know.
Caring for a family member is an act of love, sacrifice, and dedication. Whether it’s an aging parent, a spouse with a disability, or a child with special needs, family caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of their loved ones. But caregiving can also be financially challenging, especially if it requires reducing work hours or leaving a job entirely.
The good news is that some government programs and private resources can provide financial support for family caregivers. If you’re currently providing care for a loved one, here’s how you may be able to get paid for the work you do.
Become a Paid Caregiver Through Medicaid: One of the most common ways to receive financial compensation as a caregiver is through a state Medicaid program. Many states have consumerdirected personal assistance programs, which allow people with disabilities to
hire a family member or friend as a paid caregiver. If your loved one already receives Medicaid benefits, check with your state’s Medicaid office to see if they qualify for a home and community-based services (HCBS) waiver or a self-directed care program. These programs typically cover services such as:
Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
Medication management
Meal preparation and feeding assistance
Light housekeeping
Transportation to medical appointments
Each state has different rules and payment rates, so it’s important to research your state’s specific guidelines. Some states even allow family members to become legally employed caregivers through Medicaid-funded home care agencies.
Caring for a Family Member Who Is Not Eligible for Medicaid. If your loved one does not qualify for Medicaid, other financial assistance options may still be available.
Taking Care of Family — Strategies for Making Caregiving Work
In Caribbean families, taking care of our own isn’t just a choice — it’s part of who we are. We step up for our elders, care for relatives who are ill, and make sure no onegetsleftbehind.
But caregiving takes a toll — financially, emotionally, and physically. What many Caribbean-Americans don’t realize is that there are programs and benefits, especially in the U.S., that can support you and even payyouforthecareyou'realreadyproviding.
If you're caring for a parent, grandparent, or veteran in your family, here’s how to take care of them — and makethesystemworkforyou,too.
1.CheckLong-TermCareInsuranceforCaregiverPay
If your loved one has long-term care insurance, it may include a benefit that allows family members to be paid for caregiving. Some policies even reimburse you directly for helping with daily needs like bathing, cooking,andmobility.
But these rules vary. Some insurers require that you register through a home care agency or complete training. The first step is to call the insurance provider and ask: “Can a family member be paid for providing care?”Don’tassumetheanswerisno—ask,push,and advocate.
2.UsePaidFamilyLeave(IfYou’reintheRightState)
Several states — including New York and California, where many Caribbean-Americans live — offer paid family leave. This lets you take time off work to care for a seriously ill loved one and still get a portion of your paycheck. For example, New York allows up to 12 weeks off with about two-thirds of your pay. If you’re working and also trying to manage care, this benefit can give you breathing room without losing your income. Ask your HR department or check your state’s labor websiteforhowtoapply.
3.Veteran Benefits: Get Paid to Care for a Veteran in YourFamily
If your parent or spouse served in the military, don’t overlook veteran care programs. The Veteran-Directed Home and Community-Based Services program gives qualified veterans a flexible budget to hire caregivers — and yes, that can include family. A counselor helps set up a care plan, and then your loved one decides how to use their care funds, often choosing a trusted family memberoverastranger.
AnotherpowerfulbenefitisAidandAttendance(A&A)— a monthly payment for veterans or their surviving spouses who need help with everyday tasks. This money can legally be used to pay you, the caregiver, for yourtimeandwork.
Well, Excuse Me!
“I believe that sex is one of the most beautiful, natural, wholesome things that money can buy.” If that is not enough for the world to consider Steve Martin both a consummate entertainer and a glib consummate entertainer, try these for size. “All I’ve ever wanted was an honest week’s pay for an honest day’s work.”: “Chaos in the midst of chaos isn’t funny, but chaos in the midst of order is.”; “A day without sunshine is like, you know, night.”; and “Lorne (his friend) is the kind of power producer who can get things done with simply a phone call. Especially pedicure.” Worse, even though he was compulsive and focused on his art and craft, he said, “The greatest thing you can do is to surprise yourself.” Given that Steve Martin is an American comedian, actor, writer, producer, and musician, I am sure there is much more he can do at this stage and age. In fact, a few nights ago, I saw him on the “Jimmy Kimmel Show” and it was clear that with his new book, banjo playing and jokes he clearly has a long, long way still to go. In fact, when same-sex weddings were legalized in New York, Steve said to his friend, Alec Baldwin, the actor, and film producer, “Alec! Now we can get married!” To which Baldwin said, “Okay, but if you play that effing banjo after eleven o'clock...”
EXCUSE ME PLEASE, SIR STEVE MARTIN
The only way Steve Martin can surprise himself now is not to hit age 80 on August 14th. Like me, he was born on August 1945. However, I was born four days before him and I am doing everything possible to be able to send him a note on my birthday telling him, “Well, Sir Steve Martin, excuse me. Please!” Then, while waiting for his response, I will continue to read some more of his humour. Here are some more that I like because of the link of facts, humour, and his own incredible style. “Hosting the Oscars is much like making love to a woman. It is something I only get to do when Crystal is out of town.”; “I am tired of wasting letters when punctuation will do. Period!”; “I have got to keep breathing. It will be my worst business mistake if I don’t.”; “There is one thing I would break up over, and that is if she caught me with another woman. I won’t stand for that.”; “Dinosaurs did not walk with humans. The evolutionary record says different. They gambled.”
A BROWN CHRISTMAS AND A BUTTONHOLE
It is difficult to reduce the almost 80 years into all his jokes and comments but here is a mix that will make us think and still crack us up: “You know what I love about Los Angeles? It’s the only place where you can have a brown Christmas,”; “I remember when I was born. I was so surprised, I didn’t talk for a year and a half.”; A celebrity is any well-known TV or movie personality who is no longer in a relationship.”; “First the doctor told me the good news: I was going to have a disease named after me.”; “I thought about becoming a doctor, but I didn’t have the patients.”; “I’m so happy. I found a buttonhole that matches one of my buttons!"; "Some people have a way with words, and other people… not have way."; "I was the class clown— but you know, I was in grammar school, so I was only the class part-time entertainer."; and “I believe Ronald Reagan can make this country what it once was: an arctic region covered with ice." But just to help you understand the extreme, off-key humour here are two. First, “I love money. I love everything about it. I bought some pretty good stuff. Got me a $300 pair of socks. Got a fur sink.
...
By Tony Deyal
An electric dog polisher. A gasoline-powered turtleneck sweater. And of course, I bought some dumb stuff too.” Then this, “I got a standing ovation the other night. I had to stand up to take a drink of water.”
BILLY CRYSTAL OUT OF TOWN
Thinking about that special Steve Martin mix, here are some more. First there is Billy Crystal, the comedian and filmmaker, “Hosting the Oscars is like making love to a beautiful woman- it's something I only get to do when Billy Crystal is out of town.” There were also, “Comedy is not pretty. It’s a lot of later nights, a lot of rejection, and a lot of looking in the mirror saying, ‘What aren’t I funnier.’”; “How to make a million dollar: First, get a million dollars.”; “I got into comedy to meet women. Unfortunately, so did most of the women.”; and one for the female road, “I like a woman with a head on her shoulders. I hate necks.” The women seem to be difficult and hard to understand, “I remember the first time I had a date with a girl. She asked me to take off my shirt. Then she asked me to take off my pants. Then she asked me to leave.”
ZENO OBI CONSTANCE, A TRINI OF WORTH
This takes me to my Trinidad-born friend and colleague, Zeno Obi Constance, who deserves a national award for his knowledge, ongoing lists, and backgrounds of our country’s Calypso. As we say, they go from bard to verse, starting in the 18th Century and is still as good as gold so many years after in his 75th year in 2025. The one thing that he knows very well is that we in Trinidad and the Caribbean love and look forward for the humour, the double-entendre, which is always open to two interpretations, one of which is usually risqué. Take a look, to end this article, with “Kaiso” (or Calypso) compared with Steve Martin and the US.
BIRTH CONTROL AND SINGLE PAN
First is Brother Valentino on “Birth Control.” He sang, “No woman eh go give me no story/ About how she making baby for me, not me/ I could never catch myself in that jam/ I “breaksing” (hiding) from child like any woman/ And the secret is in the palm of my hand.” Then there is the female, Mirasa Joseph with “My Single Pan.” Her approach is, “I feel to ramajay (sing and make music) all by myself alone/ Nothing eh stopping me I do so happily/ I am in a perfect role when I am playing alone.” The great Chinese calypsonian, “Chang Kaichek” did, “Naughty Boy”, which went, “Whole day you pitching marble/ From yard to yard well you causing trouble/ Must tell you that what happen last night/ In the middle of the night you still flying kite.” And to end with the great Explainer, “I love Miss Palmer in her arms I feel better/ She lights up my fire/ I doh want to get AIDS or herpes/ Or any kind of sexual transmitted disease…”
*Tony Deyal’s version of a Steve Martin joke, “I love to go to the gym and watch the ladies jumping up and down. They don’t know I’m firing blanks.”
