Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - Feb 2025. pdf
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Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring the Legacy of Geraldine Thompson and the Fight for Equality
Black History Month is a time to reflect on the profound contributions of Black leaders, activists, and trailblazers who have shaped history. It is also a call to action—a reminder that the struggle for justice, equality, and opportunity is ongoing. One such trailblazer is Geraldine Thompson, a distinguished leader in Florida who has dedicated her life to preserving Black history, championing civil rights, and advocating for educational equity.
Black History Month, first established in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson, was created to ensure that the achievements of African Americans were recognized and celebrated. Initially observed as “Negro History Week,” it later expanded to a full month in 1976, coinciding with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Today, it serves as an essential time to educate communities about the resilience, innovation, and cultural impact of Black individuals throughouthistory.
Florida has Lost a Giant, A Trailblazer, A Leader, and A Champion for the People
Among the many leaders who have fought for the preservation of Black history, Geraldine Thompson stands out as a fierce advocate for truth, education,andempowerment.
Geraldine Thompson is a name synonymous with dedication, resilience, and service. A true trailblazer in Florida politics and an unwavering advocate for civil rights, education, and community empowerment, Thompson has left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.
Born with a spirit of determination, she rose through the ranks to become a respectedleader,servingasaFloridaState RepresentativeandSenator.
Samuel J. Roberts,
Publisher/Editor
Start This Year with Intention—Put Your House in Order
The world around us is shifting—economically, politically, and socially—and the days of living without a plan, waiting for the "right time," are long gone. If there’s something in your lifethatneedshandling,handleitnow.
If you need to get your citizenship, prioritize it. The rules andpolicies around immigration are always evolving, and the security of knowing you have your paperwork in order cannot be overstated. Citizenship is not just a document; it’sprotection, access, and peace of mind. If you’ve been procrastinating, make this the year you take action.
If you’ve been meaning to get married and settle your affairs, do it. Love is important, but so is stability. Whether it's legal protections, financial benefits, or securing a future together, waitingindefinitelytotakethatstepdoesnotserveyou.
Thisisalsothetimetogetyourfinancesinorder.Save,invest, collaborate. Look at your expenses, cut unnecessary spending,andfindwaystomakeyourdollarstretch.Inflation, housingcosts,andjobsecurityareallunpredictable—havinga financial cushion and working within a strong communitynetworkcanmakeallthedifference.Don’tgoatit alone. Pool resources, share knowledge, and create support systemsthathelpeveryonerise.
America is changing. The cost of living is rising, laws are tightening, and the margins for error are getting slimmer. Do not live recklessly. Do not move without strategy. Live withintention.
This is the year to make smart, decisive moves. Put your house in order, strengthen your foundation, and build toward a future that is secure, stable, and prosperous. The timetoactisnow.
Beyond personal finances, we must build stronger communities. Now is the time to strengthen connections, support local businesses, and foster relationships with neighbors and like-minded individuals. Don’t wait for a crisis to recognize the power of community. Stay politically engaged, educate yourself on policies that affect your future, and work together to create spaces where everyone can thrive. We are stronger together, and our collective resilience is what will sustain us in uncertaintimes.
As we focus on external stability, we must also prioritize health and well-being. Without good health, financial and social stability mean little. Schedule your medicalcheckups, get insured, and take your mental health seriously. The stresses of modern life can be overwhelming, but by making intentional decisions aboutdiet, exercise, and self-care, you ensure that you are physically and mentally prepared for whatevercomesnext.Healthiswealth—investinyourself.
Martinique Joins CARICOM: A New Chapter for Regional Integration
In a historic move that signals deeper Caribbean unity, Martinique officially became an associate member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on February 20, 2025. This milestone marks a significant shift in the island’s engagement with its Caribbean neighbors, reflecting its growing commitment to regional cooperation despite its status as an overseas departmentofFrance.
Why is Martinique’s CARICOM Membership Important?
CARICOM, established in 1973, is a political and economic bloc that fosters trade, collaboration, and policy coordination among Caribbean nations. Traditionally, membership has been limited to independent Caribbean states, but in recent years, there has been a push to integrate non-sovereign Caribbean territories like Martinique, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana into regionalaffairs.
Economic Integration – This move strengthens economic ties between Martinique and the wider Caribbean, allowing the island to participate in CARICOM trade agreements, investment partnerships,andbusinessdevelopmentinitiatives.
Cultural and Historical Reconnection –Though politically aligned with France, Martinique shares deep cultural, linguistic, and historical connections with its Caribbean neighbors. This membership affirms its Caribbean identity and fosters greater people-to-peopleexchanges.
–The Caribbean is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes,rising sea levels, and climate change. Through CARICOM, Martinique can work more closely withregional bodies on disaster preparedness, emergency response, and environmental sustainability initiatives.
Political and Diplomatic Influence – As an associate member, Martinique gains a greater voice in shaping regional policies on tourism, trade, and governance, eventhoughitremainsunderFrenchjurisdiction.
Why Would Martinique Join CARICOM?
For years, Martinique has been strengthening its ties with regional organizations. In 2016, it became the first nonEnglish-speaking territory to join the Organization of EasternCaribbeanStates(OECS).Thismovehelped
Joining CARICOM is a natural progression. As a highly developed Caribbean economy, Martinique sees opportunities for business expansion, cross-border collaboration, and better economic resilience. Additionally, its participation in CARICOM’s single market initiatives, sustainable development programs, and educational exchanges allows it to share resources and expertise while benefiting fromthecollectivestrengthoftheregion.
WhatDoesThisMeanforMartinique’sFuture?
WithCARICOMmembership,Martiniqueislikelytosee:
Greater Business & Investment Opportunities –Martinique-based companies may expand into other CARICOM markets, and Caribbean investors may findnewavenuesinMartinique.
Stronger Regional Identity – As Martinique aligns more closely with its Caribbean neighbors, this could deepen the push for more autonomy from France, particularlyineconomicaffairs.
Increased Mobility & Trade – While its EU and French ties remain intact, Martinique could push for better transportation and trade agreements within CARICOM, facilitating easier movement of people and goods.
Tourism & Cultural Exchange Growth –CARICOM’s support could help Martinique attract more Caribbean tourists, further diversifying its economy.
A
Step
Toward a More United Caribbean
Martinique’s entry into CARICOM is a powerful statement about Caribbean cooperation. It demonstrates that the Caribbean, despite its colonial legacies and linguistic differences, can work together toward economic andpoliticalprogress.
As the island integrates further into regional affairs, its influenceinshapingclimatepolicy,economicdevelopment, and cultural exchange will only grow. The Caribbean is stronger together, and Martinique’s addition to CARICOM isawinfortheentireregion.
Soca 2025: A Return to Its Fusion Roots of African & Indian Sounds
This year’s Soca season in Trinidad & Tobago showcased a bold return to the genre’s foundation—one built on thefusion of African and Indian musical influences. From the rhythmic percussions of African drumming to the melodies and instruments of Indian classical music, 2025’s Soca music brought these elements together in a way that felt both revolutionary and deeply rooted in history.
Thissonicreintegrationismorethanjustanevolutionofthe genre—it is a celebration of the unity and cultural blending that first gave birth to Soca. To understand the significance of this year's shift, we must go back to its creator, Lord Shorty, and his vision of a musical form that embraced bothofTrinidad’slargestethnicgroups.
Lord Shorty’s Vision: Soca as a Unifier of African & Indian Roots. The late Garfield Blackman, known as Lord Shorty, was a visionary. In the 1970s, Calypso was the dominant music of Trinidad & Tobago, but Shorty saw its limitations—it was deeply rooted in African musical traditions, yet it did not fully reflect the other major influence on the country’s culture:Indo-Trinidadianmusic andrhythms.
With this in mind, he experimented with fusing Calypso’s African beats with Indian instruments like the dholak, tabla, and sitar. He called this new genre "Sokah," a word meant to represent the soul of Calypso. Over time, the spelling evolved into "Soca," but its essence remained the same: a fusion of African and Indian musical styles, representing the diverse cultural makeup of Trinidad &Tobago.
For Shorty, Soca was not just music—it was a movement of unity. At a time when the island still experienced deep ethnic divides between Afro-Trinidadians and Indo-Trinidadians, Soca was his way of blending cultures, bridging gaps, and showing that music could transcend differences.
This intentional reunion of Soca’s African and Indian influences has been met with excitement across all communities in Trinidad, showing how the genre remains a symbol of unity in a land shaped by multiplecultures.
WhilemanyCaribbeanmusicalgenresarerootedinAfrican musical traditions, Soca is unique in that it is the only mainstream music that intentionally fuses both African and Indianelements.
Trinidad & Tobago is home to two of the largest ethnic groups in the Caribbean—descendants of enslaved Africans and indentured Indian laborers. Soca is the only genre thatreflectsbothheritagesinitscoresound.
Soca is not just Afro-Caribbean music—it is AfroIndian-Caribbeanmusic.
Soca is a living symbol of multiculturalism, showing that different cultures can come together to create somethingbeautiful.
Soca is a unifier, just as Lord Shorty envisioned, bringing people together through music, rhythm, andsharedidentity.
With the resurgence of Indo-Trinidadian musical influences in mainstream Soca, the future looks promising. Younger artists and producers are rediscovering the fusion thatmadeSocaspecialinthefirst place, and fans are embracing this reintegration of sounds. As Soca continues to evolve, this year’s Carnival season provesthatTrinidad&Tobago’snationalsoundisstrongest when it fully embraces all of its roots—African, Indian, and beyond. Soca is more than just party music. It is history, culture, and unity in motion. And in 2025, it feels morealivethanever.
Florida has Lost a Giant, A Trailblazer, A Leader, and A Champion for the People.
In every community, there are leaders who serve office, and then there are those who serve the people— champions who uplift history, fight for justice, and ensure that cultural contributions are recognized and celebrated. Senator Geraldine F. Thompson is one of those rare leaders. From her tireless advocacy for the exoneration of the Groveland Four to her commitment to preserving Black and Caribbean history in Central Florida, she has dedicated her life to ensuring that the past is not forgotten and the future is built on justice and opportunity.
The Caribbean American community extends its deepest gratitude to Senator Geraldine Thompson for always seeing our culture, our businesses, and our people. WhetherinthehallsoftheFloridaLegislature,throughthe Wells’Built Museum, or in the fight for equity, she has ensuredthatAfricanAmericanvoicesremainatthecenter ofFlorida’shistoryandprogress.
African American History and Culture, located in Parramore, Orlando’s historic Blackneighborhood.
A Life of Service: From Education to Advocacy Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and raised in Perrine, Florida, Geraldine Thompson’s early life was shaped by hard work, perseverance, and a deep sense of justice. She came from a family that worked in agriculture and construction, industries that are deeply tied to the Caribbean and African American experience in Florida. These roots gave her an early understanding of labor struggles, economic challenges, and the importance of accesstoopportunity.
She pursued higher education at the University of Miami, where she earned her undergraduate degree in 1970, followed by a Master of Science Degree from Florida State University in 1973. Armed with knowledge and a passion for uplifting others, she spent six years as an Orange County Public Schools teacher before transitioning to ValenciaCollege,wheresheservedasanadministratorfor 24years.
While at Valencia, she founded the College Reach Out Program, which enabled thousands of low-income and disadvantaged students, many from Caribbean and African American backgrounds, to achieve their dream of attending college. This initiative reflected her lifelong belief in education as a pathway to empowerment, and many of its beneficiaries have gone on to become professionals, business owners, and community leaders. One of Senator Thompson’s most significant contributions tothepreservationofhistoryistheWells’BuiltMuseumof
During segregation, the Wells’Built Hotel provided lodging to some of America’s most prominent Black and Caribbean entertainers, including Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, and Justice Thurgood Marshall. However, as timepassed, the building fell into neglect—until Geraldine Thompson led the campaign to restore and transform it into a museum, preserving an essential part of Florida’s Black history.
The Wells’Built Museum stands as a tribute to the contributions of Black and Caribbean communities in Florida.It serves as a reminder of how far we have come and thelegaciesthatshouldneverbeforgotten.
In addition to the museum, Senator Thompson has championed the recognition of African American historical figures through road dedications and resolutions.
Through these recognitions, she has ensured that the contributions of Black pioneers are permanently woven intothefabricofFlorida’shistory.
Justice for the Groveland Four & Fighting for Civil Rights While Geraldine Thompson has always been a champion for education and history, her unwavering pursuit of justice sets her apart. One of her most significant accomplishmentswasherleadershipintheexonerationof the Groveland Four—a case that exposed the deep racial injusticesofFlorida’spast...Cont'd on page 7
Florida has Lost a Giant, A Trailblazer, A Leader, and A Champion for the People.
The Groveland Four—Charles Greenlee, Walter Irvin, Samuel Shepherd, and Ernest Thomas—were falsely accused of rape in 1949. They suffered horrific violence, wrongful imprisonment, and, in the case of Thomas and Shepherd, state-sanctioned murder. For decades, their names were stained by a crime they did notcommit.
Through her work in the Florida Legislature, Senator Thompson fought tirelessly to clear their names, bringing the case back into public focus and leading to theirexonerationin2021. This victory was not just about the past—it was about demanding accountability, restoring dignity, and proving that justice can prevail, evendecadeslater.
She also worked to secure compensation for James Joseph Richardson, a man wrongfully incarcerated for 22 years, ensuring that he received restitution for the years stolen fromhim.
Championing Government Accountability: The Fight for Term Limits Senator Thompson dedicated her life to public service, but she also understood that accountability in government is critical to democracy. She played a pivotal role in making Florida the first state to pass the U.S. Term Limits Convention resolution, casting the deciding vote that set the stage for a national conversation on term limits in Congress.
She didn’t stop there. After securing this historic victory, she continued advocating for congressional term limits in otherstates,encouragingleadersacrossthecountrytotake action. She understood that term limits are essential to restoring accountability in Washington, and she fought to make them a reality. Her belief in fair representation and preventingpoliticalstagnationshowcasedhercommitment tojustice,notjustinFloridabutacrossthenation.
Senator Thompson has served in both the Florida House of RepresentativesandtheFloridaSenate,
She made history as the first female Democrat and person of color to serve Florida House District 44, and she continues to serve as Senator for Florida Senate District 15, which includes Parramore, Pine Hills, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips, Eatonville, Apopka,andWashingtonShores.
On behalf of the Caribbean American community, we saythankyou.Thankyouforfightingforjustice,for preserving our history, for ensuring government accountability, and for championing our culture and businesses.
Your work is more than legislation—it is a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Your efforts have ensured that Black and Caribbean American voices are not just included but celebrated in Florida’s historyandfuture.
As we look to the future, we know that your leadership, wisdom, and dedication will continue to shape our communities in profound ways. We see you.Wehonoryou.Wecelebrateyou.
How to Stand Out on Social Media in an AI-Powered World
In a digital landscape where AI-generated content floods social media, standing out is harder than ever. Whether you’re a brand, entrepreneur, or content creator, the key to success lies in authenticity, engagement, and strategy. Here are quick, powerful tips to make sure your content risesabovethenoise:
• Show Your Face & Personality
AI can create content, but it can’t replicate YOU. Personalbranding matters more than ever. Share behind-the-scenes moments, real-life stories, and video content tomake authentic connections. People follow people, notjust content.
• Create Interactive Content
Don’t just post—start conversations. Use polls, quizzes,and Q&A stickers on Instagram andLinkedin to engageyour audience. The morepeople interact with yourcontent, the more visible you become.
• Short-Form Video is King
With platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTubeShorts dominating engagement, video content is non-negotiable. Keep it visually appealing, and packed withvalue to grab attention in the first 3 seconds.
• Be Hyper-Specific in Your Niche
Generic posts get lost in the shuffle. Find your niche anddouble down on it. Whether it's Caribbean culture, AI inmarketing, or fitness for busy moms—narrow your focus tobuild a loyal audience.
• Write for Humans, Not Just Algorithms AI-generated captions and posts are everywhere, butauthentic storytelling still wins. Infuse your content withemotion, personal experiences, and relatable moments thatAI can't replicate.
• Engage Like a Real Person
Social media is social—don’t just post and disappear. Spend15-30minutesdailycommentingonposts, respondingtoDMs,andengagingwithyour community.Themoregenuineinteractionsyoucreate, themorevisibilityyougain.
Get Paid as a Caregiver for a Family Member:WhatYouNeedtoKnow.
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 workhoursorleavingajobentirely.
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 consumer-directed 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. Theseprogramstypicallycoverservicessuchas:
Personalcare(bathing,dressing,grooming)
Medicationmanagement
Mealpreparationandfeedingassistance
Lighthousekeeping
Transportationtomedicalappointments
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-fundedhomecareagencies.
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 beavailable.
1. Long-TermCareInsurance
Ifyourlovedonehasalong-termcareinsurancepolicy,check whether it includes caregiver compensation from family members Some policies allow payments to relatives for providingin-homecare,buttherulesvary
Next Step - Contact the insurance provider and ask for a written confirmation of benefits to see if caregiver paymentsarecovered
2. PaidFamilyleave
Some states require employers to offer paid family leave, allowing employees to take time off whilereceiving partial wages to care for a seriously illfamilymember.
The length of leave and amount paid varies by state and employer.
Not all employers are required to participate in these programs.
Next Step: Contact your State Labor Office or employer's Human Resources (HR) Department to see if you qualify for paidfamilyleavebenefits.
3. Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) & Community Resources
Next Step: Search for your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) by entering your ZIP code or city and state on Eldercare.gov.
Veterans Programs for Family CaregiversIf your loved one is a veteran, there are several programs available that may provide financial assistanceforfamilycaregivers.
1. Veteran-DirectedHomeandCommunity-Based Services (VD-HCBS) ProgramThis program gives eligible veterans a flexible budget to hire caregivers—including family members—to assist with daily activities. Veterans work with a counselor to determine their needs and allocate their fundsaccordingly.
2. Respite Care for Family CaregiversCaring for a veteran full-time can be exhausting. The Respite Care program provides short-term relief for caregivers, ensuring the veteran still receives quality carewhiletheprimarycaregivertakesabreak.
3. Aid and Attendance BenefitsThe Aid and Attendance (A&A) program provides monthlypaymentstoveterans(ortheirsurvivors)who need help with daily activities. These benefits can be usedtopayafamilymemberforcaregivingservices.
Next Step: Contact your local VA Pension Management Center or visit www.VAgov to see if your family member qualifies for financial caregivers assistance.
Caringforafamilymemberisafull-timeresponsibility that deserves both recognition and compensation. While family caregiving has traditionally been seen as an unpaid duty, more programs are emerging to provide financial support to those who dedicate their timetocaringforlovedones.
ThePowerof$50
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VISITUS
REAL ESTATE WITH KADEEM
House Hacking: The Smart Way for Young Buyers to Build
Wealth and Maximize Tax Breaks
For many young people, owning a home feels like an impossible dream, especially with rising property prices, high interest rates, and the challenge of saving for a down payment. But what if there was a way to buy a property, live in it for free (or close to it), earn passive income, and get valuable tax breaks—all at the same time?
Welcome to house hacking—a strategy that allows young buyers to ease into real estate investing, afford homeownership, and build long-term wealth. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or someone looking for creative ways to maximize your money, house hacking canbeagame-changer.
WhatisHouseHacking?
House hacking is the practice of buying a multi-unit property,livinginoneunit,andrentingouttheothersto cover your mortgage and expenses. This strategy can also work with single-family homes by renting out extra bedroomsorabasementapartment.
TypesofHouseHacking:
Duplex, Triplex, or Fourplex: Buy a multi-family home, liveinoneunit,andrentouttherest.
Single-Family Home: Rent out extra bedrooms, a basementunit,orevenadetachedgarageapartment.
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU): Some properties allow youtobuildorrentaseparatein-lawsuite
By bringing in rental income, house hacking allows you to dramatically reduce your living expenses or even live mortgage-free—making homeownership much more affordable.
Why House Hacking is the Perfect Strategy for Young Buyers House hacking is an easier and lower-risk way to become a landlord while benefiting from multiple financialadvantages:
2. Qualify for a Home Loan More Easily When applying for a mortgage, lenders consider your future rental income, which can increase your borrowing power.Thismeansyoumayqualifyforalargerloanthan youwouldifyouwerebuyingasingle-familyhometolive inalone.
For instance, FHA loans (which allow you to buy a home withz as little as 3.5% down) permit buyers to use potential rentalz income from other units to helpqualifyforalargermortgage.
Deduct Mortgage Interest & Property Taxes – Just like a regular homeowner, you can deduct the interest paid on yourmortgageandpropertytaxes.
DepreciationWrite-Offs–Theportionofyourhomethat isrented out qualifies for depreciation, allowing you to writeoffaportionoftheproperty’svalueeveryyear.
Home office expenses (if you manage the property yourself
Potential Capital Gains Tax Benefits – If you live in the property for at least two of the past five years, you may be able to sell it tax-free (up to $250,000 in gains for single owners, $500,000 for married couples) under the CapitalGainsExclusion.
