October 2, 2024

VOL. XLIII NO. 2187 WEEK OF OCTOBER 2 - 8, 2024

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TOP DEMOCRATS PUSH

BRONX, NEW YORK

UNION, CARIBBEAN PARADE

Organized by Senator Jamaal Bailey Karl Rodney honored - Hugh Campbell was Grand Marshall

Page 12

UNITED STATES

STOP TRAFFICKING OF GUNS & ARMS TO CARIBBEAN U.S. Attorneys General - Letitia James and others appeal to US congress to take action Page 6

UN - TRINIDAD

DECENT PEOPLE AGAINST GAZA ATROCITIES Declares Foreign Minister Browne as he addresses General Assembly criticizing hypocrisy of powers

Page 5

JAMAICA

INTEGRITY COMMISSION WILL ‘NOT COWER’ Says head of the Commission in regards to political and public pressure around the findings

Page 5

CARIBBEAN

CONSTITUTIONS BOUND BY COLONIAL LEGACY Charges Prof. Tracy Robinson, which hampers true independence

Page 15

ST.CROIX - USVI

WELCOMES SOCA CRUISE

JAMES FOR MAYOR LETITIA JAMES, ATTORNEY GENERAL OF NEW YORK STATE IS PROPOSED TO RUN FOR MAYOR OF NEW YORK CITY MARTHA’S VINEYARD

MARRIED

For J’ouvert celebration and beach party

Page 17

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SHEENA WRIGHT AND DAVID BANKS TIE THE KNOT

CARIBNEWS

2

CaribNews EDITORIAL Condemns Attacks Against Haitian Immigrants

by Donna Cristensen - P 9

EDITORIAL It’s Time to Bust the Myths Surrounding the Clean Energy Economy

by Ben Jealous - P 9

HEALTH New Bill Lowers Insurance Premium and Curbs Fraud for For-Hire Drivers - P 17

SPORTS Former West Indies Captain Receives Prestigious Hummingbird Medal - P 20

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

AFRICA

WORLD BRIEFS

Collective effort essential to get DR Congo on firm path to peace

Indian minister says ‘we can change the world for the better’

Mobilization at the national, regional and international level are needed to support the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the face of continued violence in the east, trafficking of natural resources, and other challenges, the UN Security Council heard on Monday.

“We need to collectively remain engaged in assisting the country on its path to peace and stability,” said Bintou Keita, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for the DRC and head of the UN Mission there, MONUSCO. Ceasefire and dialogue ‘framework’ There has been a notable reduction in fighting among warring parties in the volatile east since a 30 July ceasefire - announced by the DRC and Rwanda during a meeting facilitated by Angola - “but peace is not yet won”, she said.

“However, today, there is an active framework for dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda invested in proactive mediation, sparing no efforts to resolve this conflict, an operational instrument supporting this mediation and genuine prospects for peace which are now possible,” she added.

Ms. Keita told ambassadors that the DRC has made recent incremental progress in political and institutional reform but daunting challenges remain.

Women and girls in Sudan disproportionately impacted by ongoing conflict

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Women and girls in the midst of the brutal conflict between rival militaries in Sudan are being disproportionately impacted, including 5.8 million who are now displaced, according to an alert released by UN Women on Friday.

The need for gender-based violence-related services has increased 100 per cent since the crisis began in April 2023, the UN agency championing gender affairs reported, with up to 6.7 million people needing assistance by the end of last year.

Cases of conflict-related sexual violence, sexual exploitation, and abuse have been growing since then, especially in Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan.

Many cases of abuse perpetrated against displaced women and girls go unreported due to a fear of stigma from other community members and inadequate support.

Insufficient food and healthcare With cases of acute food insecurity and abuse now at a record high in war-torn Sudan, female-headed households are being more affected than male-headed households.

Additionally, 1.63 million women of reproductive age lack access to adequate healthcare services, even though around 54,000 childbirths are expected over the next three months.

The alert explained that “women and girls also continue to be disproportionately impacted by the lack of safe, easily accessible, and affordable water, sanitation, and hygiene.”

“At least 80 per cent of the internally displaced women are unable to secure clean water due to affordability, safety concerns, and distance,” it continued.

India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said the world stands fractious, polarized and frustrated amid war, unfair trade practices, climate change and food and health insecurity.

Trust has eroded, processes have broken down and countries have extracted more from the international system than they have put in it, enfeebling it along the way.

“Conversations have become difficult, agreements even more so,” he said. “This is surely not what the founders of the UN would have wanted for us. Reforming multilateralism is, therefore, an imperative.”

The General Assembly must ask itself “how has this come to pass?” he said.

“Every change must begin somewhere, and there is no better place than where it started,” he continued.

“We, the Members of the United Nations, must now seriously and purposefully address ourselves to that task. If we carry on like this, the state of the world is only going to get worse, and that could mean that more of us are going to be left behind.

For its part, India has sought to respond in a variety of ways, including targeted policies and initiatives focused on issues of the vulnerable, women, farmers and youth, from assured access to piped water, electricity, cooking gas and new homes to financial support for food producers.

Lebanon crisis: UN launches $426 million aid appeal as ‘limited’ ground invasion reportedly begins UN humanitarians launched a $426 million appeal for Lebanon on Tuesday to support one million people uprooted by widespread Israeli shelling amid what Israel has described as a “limited, localised and targeted” ground operation into Lebanon, across the UN-patrolled line of separation.

From the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, spokesperson Jens Laerke described chaotic scenes across Lebanon as people continued to flee airstrikes that have killed more than 1,000 people in the past two weeks alone, according to the UN human rights office, OHCHR. “We should expect further displacement,” Mr. Laerke told journalists in Geneva.

“We do not have enough supplies, we do not have enough capacity and that’s exactly why we are launching this appeal because we need this additional injection of funds to actually procure it and capacities in place to increase the response which is not where it should be, because we are, as usual, running after the facts,” he continued.

“It’s easy to break things and hurt people but getting them back to some sort of normality takes a long time and costs a lot of money. So that’s why we need to stop this development and de-escalate this conflict as soon as possible.”

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

CARIBNEWS

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US Congress To Act on Gun Trafficking to Caribbean Urged by Attorneys General

NEW YORK, CMC – New York Attorney General, Letitia James, is leading a coalition of 12 attorneys general calling on the United States Congress to take action to stop gun trafficking from the US to Caribbean countries.

In their letter, the attorneys general say gun trafficking from the United States has contributed to gun violence in Caribbean countries, where many New Yorkers and Americans have families.

The coalition outlines a number of measures the US Congress can take to help reduce gun trafficking into the Caribbean, including ensuring inspectors at ports have enough resources to make inspections and passing the Caribbean Arms Trafficking Causes Harm (CATCH) Act. James said the CATCH Act would provide state and federal governments with more information about gun trafficking into the Caribbean and determine which anti-gun trafficking methods are working to reduce gun violence.

“American-made guns are flowing into Caribbean nations and communities and fueling violence, chaos, and senseless tragedies throughout the region,” the New York Attorney General told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).

“This issue hits especially close to home, as many New Yorkers have family in Caribbean nations who are enduring dangerous conditions, partially because of easy access to dangerous weapons from our country,” she added.

“We have a responsibility to address this crisis, and that is why I am calling on Congress to take action to stop gun trafficking into Caribbean countries. When we tackle the gun violence crisis from every angle, we protect everyone.”

In their letter, James and the coalition of attorneys general said the number of guns smuggled into the Caribbean from the United States has surged in recent years and contribute signifi-

cantly to gun violence in those countries.

For instance, they point to a 2023 United Nations report that indicated that the United States has been a “principal source of firearms and munitions in Haiti”.

Additionally, the attorneys general write that “Jamaican Security Ministry estimates that at least 200 guns are trafficked from the United States into the country each month”.

They say that addressing the outbound flow of guns from the United States is “a service to our constituents”, many of whom have ties to family and loved ones in the Caribbean, reiterating that passage of the CATCH Act would give both state and federal governments much-needed information about gun trafficking into Caribbean countries and anti-trafficking measures.

They are also asking Congress to take additional steps by ensuring that inspectors at American ports are given sufficient resources to inspect shipments being sent from the United States to countries in the Caribbean; and ensuring that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has sufficient funding to inspect federal firearms licensees that are responsible for a disproportionate number of firearms that are traced after having been used in crimes in countries in the Caribbean. The attorneys general are requesting briefings from the United States Postal Service, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Justice about their ongoing efforts to interdict shipments of guns from the United States to countries in the Caribbean, with a focus on what additional resources and legal tools they need to accomplish this important task.

STRENGTHEN ACTIONS “I am appreciative of Attorney General James on these latest actions to stop gun trafficking from the US to Caribbean nations,” said US Representative Adriano Espaillat of Harlem, who introduced legislation in Congress to reauthorize funding for the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI).

“This further strengthens our actions to combat crime and illicit drug trafficking, while supporting peace and stability to the region.”

“I commend Attorney General James and

each of the attorneys general for their ongoing state-federal collaboration to stop the flow of gun trafficking between our nations,” added the Dominican Republic-born congressman.

New York State Senator, Zellnor Y. Myrie, who traces his roots to Jamaica, said “we’ve long known that firearms are being trafficked around the US, flooding our communities with deadly weapons and putting our lives and safety at risk.”

“I’m proud to have written the nation’s first law to hold bad actors in the gun industry liable for reckless conduct that allows this situation to occur, and honored to stand with our attorney general as she leads the fight against gun trafficking from the US to Caribbean nations,” noted the representative for the 20th Congressional District in Brooklyn, New York.

Myrie’s Senate colleague, Roxanne Persaud, the Guyanese-born representative for the 19th Senate District in Brooklyn, said “we cannot turn a blind eye to the devastating impact that gun trafficking from the United States is having on our Caribbean neighbors, and it is our duty to take action.”

She added, “The CATCH Act is a crucial step toward implementing effective measures to combat this crisis. I thank Attorney General James and the attorneys general for helping to protect communities both here and abroad from the scourge of gun violence.”

New York State Assembly member Phara Souffrant Forrest, the Haitian-American representative for the 57th Assembly District in Brooklyn, said “the unchecked flow of illegal guns from the United States into the Caribbean is fueling violence and destabilizing communities across the region.”

“Congress must act now to pass comprehensive legislation to stop gun trafficking, and I applaud Attorney General James for her leadership on this issue. Our Caribbean neighbors deserve safety, stability and the ability to thrive without the constant threat of gun violence, which we know all too well here at home,” Souffrant Forrest added.

“By strengthening enforcement, closing loopholes and promoting regional cooperation, we can protect lives on both sides of our borders and build a safer future for all.”

NY - Tish James for Mayor is Pushed by Top Democrats Top Democrats are quietly preparing for the possibility that New York Attorney General Letitia James may need to step in for a special mayoral election if Mayor Eric Adams steps down before completing his term. With Mayor Adams facing federal charges of bribery and wire fraud, discussions are emerging about who could take his place if he were to leave office.

According to state Democratic Party leader Jay Jacobs, many party insiders are rallying behind James, seeing her as the candidate who could maintain stability in the city during such a turbulent time.

“There are a lot of people interested in

Tish running for mayor,” Jacobs said, though he emphasized that this remains a “what if ” scenario and has not suggested Adams should resign.

The urgency behind the support for James comes in part from concerns about who might enter a special election if one were to happen. While figures like State Sen. Jessica Ramos and City Comptroller Brad Lander have been floated as potential candidates, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo is also reportedly eyeing a political comeback. However, Democratic leaders, including Jacobs, are not eager for Cuomo’s return, noting the controversies surround-

ing his resignation in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations. “You open a whole can of worms with Cuomo,” Jacobs said.

James, for her part, has remained focused on her current role as attorney general and has dismissed speculation. While she has not ruled out a run for mayor, James told reporters, “I don’t believe in speculation.

Right now, I’m focused on the office of the Attorney General.”

The potential shakeup in New York politics has led to growing uncertainty, especially within business circles. Paul Zuber, vice president of the Business Council of New York State, noted that while business

leaders are watching the situation closely, they are already asking, “What’s next?” amid the uncertainty surrounding Mayor Adams’ political future.

While Mayor Adams continues to fight the charges against him, the speculation surrounding a possible mayoral race—and Letitia James’ potential candidacy—continues to gather momentum. For now, however, James remains focused on her role as attorney general, while political insiders prepare for a future that may see her take center stage in New York City politics.

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CARIBNEWS

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

UN - Mia Mottley Supports Emergency Financial Considerations for Climate Vulnerable States In a third iteration of the Bridgetown Initiative supported by several poor nations, Barbados will advocate for the establishment of a new World Bank financial facility to supply emergency cash to climate-vulnerable nations, according to people briefed on the preparations.

While there have been some improvements made, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley informed the Council on Foreign Relations that more reforms of international financial institutions were required to address the mounting issues of high debt levels, climate change, and slower development.

She stated, “The success that we need is a change of attitude and a resetting of attitudes across the world.”

She added, “Changing the rules of the game to allow us to be seen and heard is absolutely critical, particularly given the multiplicity of challenges that we are facing.”

The Bridgetown Initiative, which was initially published in 2022 and revised again

in 2023, advocates for changes to lower borrowing costs for developing nations and emerging markets, of whom 70 are in danger of financial crisis.

Additionally, nations are researching a range of tax policies, including taxes on shipping and aviation as well as a tax on the ultra-wealthy, to generate the substantial amounts required to develop more climate-resilient economies without incurring additional debt.

According to the sources, Bridgetown 3.0 advocates for certain measures that might open up additional funding to support nations in adapting to climate change and strengthening their economy against shocks from natural catastrophes, all the while fostering long-term economic growth.

It projects that emerging markets and developing nations will require $1.8 trillion a year to address the climate catastrophe and investments connected to the environment, and an additional $1.2 trillion a year to accomplish other

Sustainable Development Goals such as improving education, reducing poverty, and achieving sustainable development.

The agenda proposes that the Group of 20 Common Framework for Debt Treatment be reformed to make it more relevant and that international financial institutions provide developing nations with a bigger

voice in governance and decision-making.

Additionally, it demands that the World Bank create a special “universal contingent finance facility” to offer emergency funding to all nations that are susceptible to climate change on low- or no-interest conditions in the event of a natural disaster.

The revised proposal also calls on donor nations, both new and old, to provide at least $120 billion this year to restock the World Bank’s low-income country arm, the International Development Association (IDA), and to mobilize an extra $500 billion annually from private sources.

The president of the Rockefeller Foundation and a former administrator of the US Agency for International Development, Rajiv Shah, praised the revised project and stated that, if put into action, it might help attract billions of dollars in additional funding for poor nations and emerging economies.

UN - Haitian Official Denounces Trump’s False Claim About Haitians in Ohio DON’T JUST KINDA TV. DIRECTV.

A prominent Haitian politician brought a peculiar moment in American politics to the U.N. General Assembly on September 26, 2024.

Speaking to international leaders about gang violence in his nation, Edgard Leblanc Fils, the president of Haiti’s transitional council, lamented the enormous number of people leaving their country to escape the bloodshed. Then he brought up unfounded rumors that said Springfield, Ohio, Haitians were consuming dogs and cats for food.

The disproved material gained international attention at last month’s U.S. presidential debate, where former President Donald Trump reiterated the assertions that have

gone viral online and been bolstered by Ohio Senator JD Vance, his running mate.

Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump’s opponent from the Democratic Party, supports President Joe Biden’s immigration policies, which are being criticized by the Republican ticket.

Fils expressed his nation’s worry about the fallout from the false allegations made against fellow Haitians in his speech to the General Assembly.

“I would like to extend a brotherly greeting to all friends of Haiti that have shown solidarity towards the migrants from our country — and in particular those living in Springfield, Ohio,” he stated.

A look back at US-Haitian relations “enables us to say with confidence that the American people reject any incitement to hate against our community,” he noted.

“The passions that naturally arise during an election campaign should never serve as a pretext for xenophobia or racism in a country such as the United States, a country forged by immigrants from all countries, and which has become a model of democracy for the world.”

Trump brought up Springfield during the Harris debate, claiming that immigrants were encroaching on the community.

“They’re eating the dogs. They’re eating the cats. They’re eating the pets of the people that live there,” he said.

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WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

CARIBNEWS

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NY - Elected Officials React to Eric Adams Indictment

On September 26, 2024, federal charges were brought against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, claiming he accepted bribes and illicit campaign donations from overseas sources.

Mayor Adams “compounded his gains” from the illicit contributions, according to the indictment filed by the U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan, by taking advantage of the city’s matching funds scheme, which offers a substantial match for modest gifts.

The court stated that Adams is anticipated to be charged on the indictment before a federal magistrate on September 27, 2024, at noon.

Following the indictment’s release, responses from both federal and local authorities started flowing in.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is pleading with Mayor Adams to identify an “appropriate path forward.” In a statement, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul of New York said that she “carefully reviewed” the indictment on Thursday, calling it “an extraordinarily difficult day for New York City.” Hochul has the power to dismiss Mayor Adams from his position.

She stated, “It’s now up to Mayor Adams to show the City that he can lead,” without explicitly asking Adams to step down.

While she considers her options and respon-

sibilities as governor, she continued, that she anticipates the mayor will use the next few days to assess the situation and “find an appropriate path forward to ensure the people of New York City are being well-served by their leaders.”

Hochul noted, “We must give New Yorkers confidence that there is steady, responsible leadership at every level of government.”

In order for him to focus on the city, Adams stated that his lawyers would handle the lawsuit. Adams declared, “My day-to-day will not change.”

If Adams resigned, the public advocate for the city, Jumaane Williams, would take over right away. The Democrat Williams would then call for a special election.

Williams just appeared on NY1’s “Inside City Hall” for the first time since the indictment.

Williams, who has experience with criminal justice reform, argues that the “presumption of innocence is really tantamount,” but he also notes that he is ready for any “eventuality.”

Williams said, “It is federal officials’ obligation to prove their case, it is the mayor’s obligation to prove to New Yorkers that there is a real plan and path to govern the city effectively and regain trust, and his time to show that plan is rapidly running out.” in a statement, though

she did not specifically ask Adams to resign.

The majority leader of the Senate, Chuck Schumer, discusses Adams’ indictment. “No one is above the law, including the Mayor of New York City,” the Democratic lawmaker from New York stated in a statement. “The charges are serious, and the legal process should now play out speedily and fairly.”

“We will continue to monitor the situation,” said the Speaker of the New York City Council.

Speaker of the New York City Council Adrienne Adams, a fellow Democrat and unrelated to the mayor, stated during a press conference that she hasn’t started thinking about the mayor’s possible departure from office. People who are accused of crimes, according to her, are entitled to self-defense and are assumed innocent.

In addition, she noted, “I ask the mayor to seriously and honestly consider whether full attention can be given to our deserving New Yorkers who need our government to be sound and stable.”

When inquired about ousting the mayor, Adrienne Adams said, “We are of course, like I said, very troubled by everything that’s transpired.

We are not prepared today to give an answer to that question. We will continue to monitor

the situation, to be in talks with our colleagues both at city and state level as we all monitor the situation and see how this further unfolds.”

Mayor Adams is urged by Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso to place “New Yorkers first”. Current Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Brooklyn Councilman Chi Osse are asking Mayor Adams to step down. In a message posted on social media, Reynoso asked the mayor to put “New Yorkers first.”

“Through this the mayor will see his inability to be able to lead,” Reynoso stated.

As president of Brooklyn Borough and a state senator representing Brooklyn, Eric Adams held two positions before he was elected mayor.

About Adams’ indictment, Robert Holden, NYC Council District 30, “I don’t know how you defend this. I’m for good government. I’m for leadership. I’m for honesty. This is anything but.”

The White House answers Adams’s allegations regarding his indictment. The mayor of New York City made accusations that he was singled out for criticism of the administration’s attempts to curb immigration and border crossings, but the White House refuted these charges, asserting that the Justice Department’s

Jamaica - Integrity Commission Head Pledged ‘We Will Not Cower’

Retired Judge Seymour Panton has urged members of the Integrity Commission (IC) to bravely carry out their responsibilities in line with the law, declaring that he would not be frightened by threats and jabs aimed at the commissioners and personnel of the anti-corruption organization.

The IC chairman’s comments are contextualized against the following social media message, which was delivered on Saturday to IC Director of Investigations Kevon Stephenson: “Yes! Nasty PNP bwoy yu must go down old germs’, a comment Panton described as being designed to drive fear into the heart of the director.”

Speaking to Dr. Horace Chang, Minister of National Security, the IC chairman claimed to have brought up the issue.

According to the minister of national security, if the investigation’s director felt endangered, the police should look into it and then notify him.

Stephenson recently said to reporters that he will file an official police complaint.

Panton claimed in a recent interview that prominent politicians had also made disparaging remarks about the IC commissioners.

Panton claimed to have received notification of

one such WhatsApp message.

“It is clear to me and until I see evidence to the contrary, there are members [politicians] … who are saying things and doing things that are causing their supporters … to be acting in the way they are doing by threatening and libeling members of the commission as well as employees of the commission,” Panton stated.

According to him, the disparaging remarks were not spoken in Parliament.

“I will not be intimidated by any of them,” Panton said, even as he expressed concern that their well-thinking colleagues “have been silent. They are silent concerning the attacks and the libel. They are very silent”.

Further, Panton charged that a member of parliament from a rural parish had also circulated “the images of myself and the directors with a scandalous statement that we are trying to bring down either the Government or the prime minister. That is the subject of legal consideration at the moment”.

The purported tweet was allegedly uploaded on September 17 following Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s address to Parliament about his statutory declarations. The Native Gleaner has received a screenshot of the post. Holness’s remarks followed the IC’s investigative report being tabled, which was forwarded for examination to the Financial Investigations Division and Tax Administration Jamaica.

Four commission members were included in the article along with their photographs, which said they were “attempting to bring down Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his government.”

When The Gleaner contacted the politician who was allegedly behind the tweet, he said, “I’ve never heard of this before.”

Chang, the general secretary of the governing Jamaica Labour Party and deputy prime minister, was questioned about Panton’s concerns.

He emphasized, “There is nothing from the Integrity Commission that I comment on.”

Claims that members of an independent committee established to look into corruption were trying to topple an administration, according to an attorney-at-law who wished to remain anonymous, are significant accusations that, if confirmed, may be considered acts of subversion, subject to severe punishments.

Claims of subversion, he argued, should not be taken lightly, particularly in the absence of hard proof.

Executive Director of Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), Mickel Jackson, stated that while news of threats against the IC and its personnel is extremely worrying, it is unfortunately not surprising.

Jackson stated, “We have observed alarming comments made by some parliamentarians, cloaked in the security of parliamentary privilege, that suggest a witch-hunt by the IC or imply undue political affiliations.”

She issued a warning, stating that further derogatory comments made by political affiliates on social media are not only impolite but also harmful to the credibility of the anti-corruption organization.

“While we acknowledge that the IC is not above criticism and should be subjected to critique as we hold them to account, it is vital to ensure that government officials do not create an impression of undermining this essential institution,” Jackson told the reporter.

According to Jackson, the current state of affairs supports the JFJ’s unwavering position that the IC has to be firmly established by the constitution in order to protect it from the whims of political meddling while it does its

legitimate functions.

She reasoned that rather than making provocative remarks that would instigate assaults, parliamentarians should seek judicial review if they have valid reservations about the IC’s judgments.

Jackson urged the IC to carry out its duties fearlessly while putting the required safeguards in place to protect the officers.

Greg Christie, the executive director of the IC, stated that following a prominent blogger’s invitation for people to demonstrate against the IC at its New Kingston headquarters last week, the commission strengthened its security measures.

“Let’s stand up for our prime minister, stand up to bullies, misinformation, lies, and a corrupt IC,” the subsequently deleted social media message stated.

As far as the gleaner is aware, four or five people showed up at the IC headquarters with placards. But lack of support seems to cause the demonstration to end soon after.

“These threats are intended to intimidate us into fear and inaction. But they will not work.

We must not allow this to happen. We must be forthright and resolute in the continued discharge of our responsibilities and our oath of office, in the interest of our beloved country and our fellow citizens,” presents a passage taken from a letter written by Panton to the employees of the IC.

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WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

Caribbean - Constitutions of Countries Still Bound by Colonial Legacy the colonized.”

The law professor clarified that because the Privy Council’s Judicial Committee still meets in the Caribbean, there is a lasting closeness between the two organizations. While UK barristers appear in regional matters and build specialized practices in local laws, Caribbean attorneys regularly go to London.

Tracy Robinson, a recently recruited lecturer at The University of the West Indies, contends that the Jamaican Constitution and several other Caribbean constitutions show a persistent British influence that impedes full independence.

At the UWI, Mona campus in St Andrew, Robinson gave her first professorial lecture titled “A Caribbean Common Law in Flux: Imagining a Future for a Fuzzy Legality.” She made the argument that these colonial legacies have led to a protracted process of decolonization while also acting as a guide for the region’s current state.

Robinson noted, “Decolonization is often viewed as a breakup; however, it has generated new entanglements between the colonizer and

Robinson referred to this link as a “dyadic constitution,” in which the external British constitution, which has been greatly impacted by colonial history, is entwined with the formal constitution. She emphasized that by incorporating British institutions into Caribbean government, imperial laws and policies create the structural foundation for Caribbean constitutions.

“The Privy Council, the monarchy, the UK Government, and Parliament have all played significant roles. Notably, the Privy Council became a much more powerful court in the Caribbean after 1962, serving as a supranational constitutional court with oversight over our new constitutions and constitutional changes,” she explained.

Robinson went on to say that the procedures that resulted in the constitutions that are presently in effect throughout the area were carried out in a way that does not make it clear how the various nations arrived at their current legal systems. She pointed out that the Privy Council is one of the main examples of the

imperial inspection structures included in the independence constitutions of most Caribbean countries.

She emphasized that, in the ten years after gaining independence, Guyana was the first nation to do away with Privy Council appeals.

However, in situations when local parliamentary rights are absent, Trinidad and Tobago’s republican constitution still permits UK parliamentary privileges to take precedence.

“Except for Dominica, all have incorporated British institutions into their governance structures, including the monarchy as the head of state,” Robinson noted.

She further drew attention to the fact that several OECS constitutions not only contain clauses about ongoing supervision but also firmly establish them.

Robinson contended that a referendum is required in the majority of OECS countries, the smaller Caribbean states at the time of independence—to rectify this error.

After the presentation, she informed the Gleaner, “The legal foundation for the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is a UK Order in Council, which has been deeply entrenched in all the OECS states. So, bizarrely a UK statutory instrument is entrenched in constitutions in our region.”

“This isn’t a philosophical question, it has produced enormous challenges for reform to the ECSC.” Robinson emphasized that it is frequently

unjustified to criticize Caribbean nations for failing to succeed in referenda to break their links to the Privy Council.

“I think we have been hypercritical of Caribbean countries being unable to achieve successes in referenda in the OECS to delink from the Privy Council. Rarely do we ask, ‘Wait, why do independent states need a referendum to end a colonial arrangement?” She thought to herself.

“It is extraordinary that an independent state could need the permission of their old colonizer to end appeals to an imperial court, entirely with UK control.”

In her remarks, she cited a legal advisor to the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office who mentioned that constitutional “weavers” in London worked on 33 independence constitutions, and their work frequently resembled “scissors and paste.” By using this strategy, long-standing British policies were maintained, and Caribbean governments were replicated.

Robinson issued a warning to Caribbean countries about the need to refrain from “digging into an unmoored identity” in the future.

According to her, Caribbean common law must look outside itself in the future.

“If we give careful and just attention to a Caribbean common law, we find in our present constitutional [arrangements] intimacies that we have misrecognized that have left us highly self-critical of our Caribbean bodies and incurious about the durability and pressure of our imperial garments,” the instructor ended.

UN - T&T Minister, All Decent People Against Gaza Atrocities During the 79th UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 29, Minister of Caricom and Foreign Affairs Dr. Amery Browne may have caused a ruckus among diplomats when he spoke up in favor of women, children, and relief workers who were being massacred in Gaza by Israeli forces.

In an ardent 30-minute address, Browne—who was accompanied by a group of six people from Trinidad and Tobago—criticized the international powers’ incoherent approach to the catastrophic humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

According to Browne, there are blatantly unfair disparities between the treatment of Palestinian war victims and other victims of warfare. The Palestinians are frequently treated like collateral damage and are not as worthy of protection.

Browne emphasized that the Caribbean, T&T, and he were against this worldview.

“Mr. President, T&T is deeply troubled by the escalation of conflict and tensions in the Middle East.”

“We remain distressed by the ongoing war on Gaza and by the chilling flashpoints or expansion that are being deployed (daily).”

As she saw, Palestine’s diplomatic envoy nodded slowly in agreement as Browne mentioned the collective punishment meted out to the Palestinian people following Hamas’ attack on October 7, 2023. The Palestinian terrorist organization Hamas carried out an attack on Israel that claimed the lives of almost 1,400 innocent civilians.

Nonetheless, a number of international leaders

have denounced Israel’s action.

Nearly 100,000 people have been injured and over 40,000 people have died in Gaza since October 7, according to Palestinian health authorities. Israel, which maintains it is battling Hamas, has been dropping bombs on Gaza, leaving hospitals, schools, churches, and other facilities in ruins.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leaders Yahiya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh were all targeted for arrest warrant requests made by Chief Prosecutor Kharim Khan of the International Criminal Court in May 2024).

A resolution calling for an end to Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory and a 12-month disengagement timeline was approved by the UN General Assembly on September 18.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ), which ruled that the occupation was illegal, provided advice that informed the resolution in part.

Browne declared, “Only someone absolutely bereft of humanity would think that it is lawful and just and even godly to respond to atrocities committed on one awful day of terror by, in turn, committing atrocities after atrocities.

“How else are we to describe the killing of over 200 UN staff members as the highest death toll in UN history – and the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians including women and children?”

“And this is not being done in secret. The entire world is watching, and the global South is

appalled.”

Browne cited what he saw as the world’s superpowers’ hypocritical stance.

The United States has been the closest friend of Israel for many years, giving it billions of dollars’ worth of weapons, bombs, and other military support. A ten-year memorandum of agreement was signed by the two nations in 2016, in which the US committed to giving Israel $3.8 billion a year.

The US increased its assistance following the Hamas attack on October 7. As part of a wider US$105 billion foreign assistance package, US President Joe Biden proposed an additional US$14 billion in funding to Israel in October 2023.

Browne did not specifically address the US’s support for Israel or the backing of any other country.

If the casualties had come from a developed country, he claimed, the world’s powers would have handled the matter differently.

“The question remains: if innocent civilians, including women, children, and UN staff were being killed at this record rate in the developed world, how would the world’s big powers have reacted? Not likely with euphemisms and platitudes.”

“Send a chilling message to the global South,” he warned, referring to the double standards and ongoing funding of international law infractions.

“And that message is this: There are some powerful people in this world who are of the view that a Palestinian child is less worthy of defense, protection, food, water, and life than another child.”

“I am not of that view. The people of my country are not of that view. Caricom is not of that view, and decent people all over the world, including in Israel, are not of that view.”

To emphasize his point, Browne stated again that international law is “not a tool of mere convenience to be muted for friends and trumped against our enemies.”

“In this regard, T&T has joined the call for an immediate full, and complete ceasefire and the unconditional release of every single hostage.”

“The truth is there is no military solution to this conflict, as peace will only be achieved through negotiations in good faith and constructive dialogue among all concerned parties.”

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Reclaiming Constitutional Sovereignty in the Caribbean The Caribbean, despite over half a century of political independence, remains constrained by colonial legacies embedded within its constitutions. Legal scholars like Tracy Robinson have underscored the deep-rooted colonial structures that persist in Caribbean governance, raising concerns about the real extent of national autonomy. Robinson, a respected voice in Caribbean constitutional law, points to the lasting influence of British legal frameworks as a barrier to achieving genuine sovereignty.

The constitutions governing many Caribbean nations were crafted during the transition to independence, often under the watchful eye of departing British colonial authorities. These documents were meant to balance the desire for self-governance with the need for stability during the fragile post-colonial period. However, decades later, many of these constitutions remain untouched, preserving outdated provisions that hinder the region’s progress toward true independence.

Robinson’s concerns are particularly compelling when it comes to the role of the British monarchy, the symbolic presence of the British monarch as the head of state in several Caribbean countries, including Jamaica and The Bahamas, continues to undermine national identity. Even though the role is largely ceremonial, it signals that these nations have not fully extricated themselves from their colonial past. This connection to the Crown, albeit distant, raises questions about the extent to which these nations can claim full sovereignty.

The legal and judicial systems in the Caribbean also bear the imprint of British colonialism.

Despite the establishment of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as a regional alternative, several countries still rely on the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, based in London,

as their final court of appeal. Robinson highlights this dependency as a significant obstacle to the development of a truly independent legal system. While the CCJ offers a more regionally relevant and culturally informed approach to justice, many Caribbean nations are hesitant to fully embrace it, revealing a deeper tension between regional autonomy and colonial legacies.

This reluctance to transition to the CCJ, Robinson argues, reflects a lack of confidence in local institutions—a sentiment that has been fostered by centuries of colonial rule. Under British governance, the Caribbean was conditioned to view British law and legal institutions as the gold standard. As a result, even decades after independence, there is a lingering belief that Caribbean courts are somehow inferior to their British counterparts. This perception not only undermines confidence in local institutions but also perpetuates a sense of dependency that is incompatible with true sovereignty.

Beyond the judicial system, Caribbean constitutions themselves are often characterized by rigidity, making it difficult to amend or reform them. Many of these documents were designed with an eye toward preventing radical changes, requiring super-majorities in Parliament or even public referenda to enact amendments.

While these measures may have been necessary in the early years of independence to ensure stability, they now serve as obstacles to much-needed reforms. Robinson emphasizes the need for constitutional flexibility, arguing that Caribbean nations must have the ability to adapt their foundational laws to meet the challenges of the modern world.

The rigidity of these constitutions is not merely a legal issue; it is also a political one. In many Caribbean countries, the political elite benefit from the existing system, which allows for a

concentration of power in the hands of the executive. Prime ministers in these nations often wield considerable influence over both the legislative and judicial branches, leading to a lack of checks and balances that is essential for a healthy democracy. As a result, there is little political will to pursue the kind of meaningful constitutional reform that Robinson advocates for.

The challenges posed by climate change, economic inequality, and globalization demand innovative governance solutions that are rooted in the realities of Caribbean society. However, the colonial structures embedded in these constitutions often impede the region’s ability to respond effectively to these challenges. As Robinson and others have noted, true independence requires more than just political sovereignty—it demands legal and institutional frameworks that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people.

In this regard, the role of the people is crucial.

For constitutional reform to be successful, it must be driven by a popular movement that challenges the status quo and demands a governance system that is truly reflective of Caribbean values and priorities. Robinson’s insights emphasize the importance of citizen engagement in this process. Constitutional reform cannot be left solely to the political class, whose interests may not align with those of the broader population. Instead, it must be a collective effort that involves all sectors of society.

In the face of these challenges, there are signs of progress. Barbados’ recent decision to remove the British monarch as head of state and become a republic is a significant step toward reclaiming full sovereignty. This move, widely praised across the region, has reignited

Something Old…Vote Blue As was so often said in the homes and churches of my childhood, there is nothing new under the sun. The popularity of the name Ezekiel was itself a persistent reminder, a testament at once to the grafted roots of our existence in the Americas and a rejoinder of the prophet himself. It is true, of course, that there is nothing new under the sun. Even from our perch here in the closing months of 2024, so much of our lives and our struggles remain fundamentally the same.

What happens to our hold on the world if we let go, if only for a moment, of the narcissism of our novelty? For one thing, so many of the distractions around us begin to break apart, so that despite all our present wonders—including the ones that make reading these words possible—the questions before us in this moment remain the same: will we make real a world where we treat everyone around us with dignity, or will we live in one where our differences are weaponized in the name of dishonest strength?

This matters as much politically as it does interpersonally, as much in our everyday lives as it does in our shared civic and public spaces.

Whether one agrees with a person’s policy positions or not, it matters whether someone learns to pronounce a person’s name, and more broadly whether they address those persons in the way they’d like to be addressed. It’s a

childhood lesson to speak to others the way they’d like to be spoken to, whether that lesson is learned at home, in school, or else on either end of some playground confrontation. It matters, making a choice in the road ahead of us, whether we vote for leaders who can manage to summit that basic principle in their interactions with others. That’s true whether that person is running for president or someone we encounter in our own lives.

Those basic dignities have always been undermined on the basis of our everyday differences, differences that matter no more than the fact that our core hopes, needs, and desires remain the same. The demand for everyday dignity has been at the core of struggles from recent memory to our distant past, from the Civil Rights Movement to our stories inherited through ancient accounts. Regardless of the terms of one’s identity, it matters to each of us whether we are able to live our lives with the respect of the people we encounter in them.

Even now, in 2024, we can all testify to moments where we find ourselves treated as less than those around us, whether ignored or outright minimized. Today as much as ever, one can go into a restaurant and find themselves not served or treated poorly based on assumptions about who they appear to be, unable to spend their money without being looked upon with doubt or derision. As much happened to

discussions about the future of other Caribbean nations that still retain the monarchy. It serves as a reminder that constitutional reform is possible, and that Caribbean nations have the power to reshape their political and legal systems in ways that reflect their own identities and priorities.

As the Caribbean continues to navigate the complexities of post-colonial governance, the question of constitutional reform will remain at the forefront. The concerns raised by Tracy Robinson and others serve as a powerful call to action. If the region is to achieve true independence, it must unshackle itself from the remnants of colonial rule that continue to bind its constitutions. Only then can Caribbean nations fully realize their potential as sovereign, self-determined states.

The road to constitutional reform will not be easy. It will require bold leadership, political courage, and a commitment to democratic principles. But as Robinson reminds us, the pursuit of true independence is not just a political endeavor—it is a deeply personal one that speaks to the heart of Caribbean identity. The region must now decide whether it is content with symbolic independence, or whether it is ready to embrace the full meaning of sovereignty by reforming the very foundations of its governance.

It is clear that the time for this conversation is now. The region must confront its colonial past, not only as a historical reality but as an ongoing influence that continues to shape its political and legal institutions. Only by doing so can the Caribbean hope to achieve the true independence that its people so deeply deserve.

by Tyrik LaCruise

me earlier this week, dining at a restaurant I’d spent years circling back to. It happens to each and every one of us so much (and for the privileged few only so often) on the basis of race or otherwise. So often in our lives we decide to remain silent. All the same, there are times we cannot allow as much. Fall 2024 is such a time.

It’s true that I recently experienced a familiar indignity in a surprising place. The fact that it happened should be no more surprising than it ever is. All the same, it’s hard not to see what it means amid a domestic and international moment where basic values of dignity and equality are so often under threat. When elected leaders in pursuit of promotion knowingly spread vicious lies about those around us whose great sin is having been born speaking a different language, its no surprise that some among us would interpret their dishonorable behavior as a personal invitation to engage in the same.

Still, we know better than the imagine that something need be a surprise to be worthy of our attention. As much for ourselves as for future generations, it matters whether we opt to say silent or take the opportunities before us to speak up.

So of course, those of us who are eligible to vote must vote—whether you’ve never done so or are a seasoned veteran—but voting alone is just a part. We all, voters or not, need to take the opportunity before us this Fall to have a

long overdue conversation about the state of the nation and our hopes for the road ahead of us. Once we do, it won’t be long before its clear that each and every one of us—regardless of party, race, or creed—hold dreams of a nation where our everyday lives are defined by equality, opportunity, and dignity, not just for ourselves but for our families and communities.

Though it’s not always the case, this election cycle offers a clear choice between a leader with a proven track record of fighting for that vision, however imperfect it may be, and a former office-holder whose spent his life undermining the possibility of that future at every turn.

I know it, you know it, and everybody knows it: Donald Trump and J.D. Vance are proof perfect that those words from Ezekiel might just be true. There is, at least in the difference between leading with dignity and doing so dishonestly, nothing in life the sun’s light has not already touched. The question before us now is whether we—as individuals and as a nation—should continue to allow that dishonest duo to repackage familiar hatreds through empty claims at offering something new. For this writer the answer, as it’s so often been throughout human history, is a resounding and enthusiastic “no.”

My only wonder, reader, is what that answer is for you.

Beyond that, what do you intend to do about it?

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Urgent Message from Jamaica Progressive League Inc. The main objective of Jamaica Progressive League since its inception in 1936, is to champion the cause of immigrants in the United States. One of its major accomplishments is its advocacy in getting the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 passed into law. This law abolished the National Origins Formula which has been the basis of U.S. immigration policy since the 1920s.

We might have rested on our laurels for too long thereby allowing some slippage and even bad actors seize the opportunity to infiltrate and gnaw away at some of our valuable gains thus making us vulnerable in this current political climate.

It took some extraordinary effort but we are back on track and are committed to doing our part by becoming involved in the process to support the Harris/Walz ticket for the Presidency of the United States.

We are aware of the numerous immigrants who have made immeasurable contributions that make America the great country it is today. It would most definitely be a monumental success to have the daughter of immigrants to hold the highest office in the US. Nonetheless in this election year, we will hear claims that immigrants are bad for the country. Donald Trump, in

his campaign for the presidency, links immigration to crime and violence, even repeating the thoroughly debunked claim that Haitian immigrants in Ohio are eating their neighbors’ pets. Not only is this a lie but this violent language is dehumanizing and poses potential harm to law abiding citizens.

According to a recent poll, roughly 3 in 4 American adults believe the upcoming presidential election is vital to the future of U.S. democracy, and we are fully aware of which candidate they think poses the greater threat.

We have seen enough and we can no longer sit on the sidelines and let insanity

reign. It is time for us to go all in. So I am calling on my fellow Jamaicans and those of Jamaican Heritage, as well as friends of the League, to join the Jamaica Progressive League’s push to solidify that this history - making potential become a reality. Your financial support, as well as canvassing efforts to get out the vote could be a tremendous push towards achieving our goal.

We only have a few weeks to go and your participation could make the difference.

If this message piques your interest you may contact me at: Tel: 718.994.5496 Email: ethelredbrown@aol.com Sadie Campbell (President)

Caribbean-American Political Action Committee Condemns Attacks Against Haitian Immigrants

by Donna Christensen

Washington, D.C., - The Board of Directors, Advisory Board, and members of the Washington DC-based Caribbean-American Political Action Committee (C-PAC) condemn the lies and egregious scapegoating leveled by former President Donald Trump and Sen. J. D. Vance, against the Haitian immigrant community in the United States. We view attacks against the Haitian community as attacks against the entire Caribbean immigrant community in the United States, and our relatives at home. These attacks are viewed

by C-PAC as racist and directly or indirectly aimed at all immigrants of color and the peoples of the Global South.

C-PAC unequivocally rejects and con-

demns these patently xenophobic statements by Messrs. Trump and Vance. These lies are abhorrent and immoral. They are against the Christian values and tradition of the United States, and contrary to all religious doctrines which form a part of the American demographic milieu. We call on the Republican Party, all Members of Congress (Senators and Representatives of both parties), and all decent Americans to join C-PAC in calling for the rejection and condemnation of these egregious statements by Messrs. Trump and Vance.

We also call on Messrs. Trump and Vance to retract these unwarranted and grossly offensive statements which have put the lives of Haitians and other Caribbean

immigrants - as well as all immigrants of color - at grave risk.

We remind the offenders and their supporters that Haitians and other Caribbean immigrants have contributed significantly to the development of the United States for more than 248 years - from the Revolutionary War to the present. Americans should know too, that the Haitian revolution was the event that contributed most to the Louisiana Purchase. Caribbean people have served honorably in the armed services of the United States in every war since America’s independence; and have sacrificed their lives to protect American democracy and the freedoms and rights which all Americans hold

sacrosanct. As is well known, Caribbean immigrants contribute at very high levels in the professions, business, science and research, academia, technology and service industries, and strengthen the technical and labor force on whose backs America has been built. The undisputed truth is that Caribbean immigrants have served America with honor and distinction for centuries, from the “cradle to the grave.” Haitians are sons and daughters of the Caribbean.

Former Congresswoman Dr. Donna Christenson, President, Caribbean-American Political Action Committee

It’s Time to Bust the Myths Surrounding the Clean Energy Economy

by Ben Jealous

“Made in the USA” is a tagline that should apply to every major piece of the clean energy economy. It is within our grasp. But first we need to bust some myths.

Earlier this month, clean energy and sustainability leaders from around the country got to tour the site of a new Qcells solar panel factory in Cartersville, Georgia. Once the new facility is up and running, Qcells will maintain the first fully integrated solar supply chain in the US—all right there in Georgia. Not far from Cartersville, the Qcells plant in Dalton, Georgia, has already shown how good-paying clean energy jobs can help communities and even give the workers and their families a sense of pride and purpose. The new plant will further demonstrate how onshoring clean energy supply chains can create even more good jobs and help us achieve energy independence, all while helping to meet our climate goals.

Yet there is a myth that seems to live in the minds of many people, that solving the world’s most critical and overarching problem—the climate crisis—must necessarily be all about sacrifice as opposed to widespread economic gain. It is an example of so-called conventional

wisdom being, well, nonsense. This is nothing new. But it is a reminder to beware conventional wisdom pushed by fossil fuel interests over basic common sense and what we see right in front of us.

What is happening with Qcells in Georgia was spurred by investments from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). That law, along with the other crucial policies of the Biden-Harris administration—like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and its tariffs against China—is helping give rise to the boom in clean energy projects across this country and a boom in manufacturing jobs supporting them. The broader picture is of a powerful partnership between the public and private sectors to create a rising economic tide that lifts all boats.

A report last year by E2 analyzed job creation from clean energy projects in the first year following passage of the IRA. It found that for every direct job in clean energy, even more indirect and induced jobs were created to support clean energy production and its supply chain. The construction industry and the supply chains that feed it benefited the most, but “sectors ranging from health care and hospitali-

ty to retail trade and real estate will also benefit greatly.” We must continue to onshore our supply chains, to manufacture domestically the steel and other raw materials needed for infrastructure and every aspect of the next economy.

Breakthroughs in manufacturing processes make it much cleaner to do here than in China, and it is American workers who will experience the economic windfall.

National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi, who joined the group hosted by Qcells in Georgia, describes it all as a “manufacturing renaissance,” noting that “for too long, technologies were invented here and manufactured somewhere else.”

This partnership between the public and private sectors is also a model for how the climate movement must grow to meet its goals. Yet our movement has been stymied by the same sorts of myths that have led some to mistakenly believe the clean energy transition carries more economic cost than benefit.

The urgency of tackling the climate crisis is undeniable. We have just come out of the hottest summer on record. A recent report based on satellite data shows extreme wildfires

have more than doubled over the past 20 years owing to climate change. Just this month, Southern California was at the mercy of three out-of-control wildfires—all in the midst of a major heat wave—that closed schools, forced resident evacuations, and made the air toxic to breathe. We know that fully transitioning from fossil fuels to clean, renewable energy is the only way to save our planet. And we need the most broad-based, inclusive movement possible to get it done.

I have spent my entire life deeply embedded in movements for change and justice—civil rights, environmental justice and conservation, workers’ rights. I have seen firsthand how much all our movements have in common, how our goals are often the same, and how the few who benefit from an unjust status quo always fight tooth and nail to keep us divided—and promote dangerous myths to do it.

Coming together to meet the existential challenge of the climate crisis means doing away with those myths. We have to bust the myth that the environmental movement is somehow “white”—while in fact people of color are not only among the most impacted...

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Caribbean Labor Union Parade in The Bronx

By Basil Roman

The beauty of costumes and the pulsating music of the Caribbean took over parts of White Plains Road in the Northeast Bronx.

This was the fourth annual Caribbean Labour Union Parade organized by Senator Jamaal Bailey of the 36th District of the Bronx and Mount Vernon. Senator Bailey chairs the powerful Committee of Codes in the Senate and is the Chair of the Bronx County Democrats organization. Senator Bailey says the Parkway Parade is great (Eastern Parkway), but that the Plain is buzzing too (White Plains Road).

The Caribbean Labour Union Parade, on the afternoon of September 21, kicked off from 238th Street and White Plains Road, on a bright afternoon with the sound of

the Caribbean and costumes. Senator Bailey welcomed the group and stressed the importance of the parade in bringing about unity in the community. Borough President Vanessa Gibson brought greetings and stressed her “Trini” roots, and also talked about the need for unity. Christina Contreras, CEO of Lincoln Hospital Center, the main sponsor of the event, also brought greetings. Rabbi Elijah Thompson gave the invocation, and the Grand Marshal of the Parade, Hugh Campbell Esq., along with the dignitaries, led the parade down White Plains Road.

Along the route to PS 41 at Olinville Ave, the sound of music filled the air, and the parade was greeted along the route, with

some onlookers occasionally joining in the dance. A great time was had by all en route peacefully.

The group gathered in the auditorium for refreshments and a program of performances and awards. The principal of PS 41, Michelle Moore Maynard, greeted the group and talked about the great partnership between the school and Senator Bailey. Principal Moore Maynard also acted as Mistress of Ceremonies. There were performances by students and also from the Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center. City Council Member Trevor Riley brought greetings to the group.

Senator Bailey then made a presentation to three honorees: Bevolyn Williams from

1199 Healthcare Workers Union, Odettly Tineo from District Council 37 – Political and Legislative Director, and Karl B. Rodney, founder and publisher of CARIB NEWS. All were lauded by Senator Bailey for their outstanding work in the community and were presented with a proclamation from the New York State Senate.

Dishes from the Caribbean and the U.S. were served along with refreshments. A great time was had by all. Senator Bailey promised that the fifth anniversary of the parade will be bigger and better. The event was organized by the Bailey Bunch, a group of volunteers working with the Senator’s staff.

Bronx, NY - Affordable Housing to Open in Wakefield Vanessa L. Gibson hailed “The Plains” for bringing much-needed stability to families and individuals, highlighting its potential to uplift the surrounding community.

Assembly Member Jeffrey Dinowitz also praised the project, noting its impact on vulnerable populations, including seniors and those previously experiencing homelessness.

“The Plains” marks another chapter in The Doe Fund’s nearly 40-year history of combating homelessness. With this latest project, the organization now provides safe, affordable housing to over 1,200 individuals and families across New York City, reaffirming its commitment to addressing housing insecurity.

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The Doe Fund, a renowned nonprofit dedicated to serving the homeless population, has recently celebrated a major milestone with the opening of “The Plains,” a new affordable housing complex in the Bronx. Located at 4519 White Plains Rd., the nine-story, 98-unit development has officially received a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO), signaling that tenants can begin moving in.

In collaboration with Robert Sanborn Development, this $51.6 million project is designed to address homelessness and support vulnerable populations. Of the 98 deeply affordable units, 49 will be reserved for formerly homeless adults with disabilities, while an additional 20 units are set aside for seniors aged 62 and older.

“The Plains” aims to not only provide housing but also foster long-term stability through robust support services. The Doe Fund will offer on-site mental health care, therapeutic group sessions, and medical

care referrals. The building is equipped with offices for program staff, a multipurpose room, laundry facilities, a fitness center, and 24/7 security, as well as private outdoor recreation spaces.

Jennifer Mitchell, President and CEO of The Doe Fund, emphasized the importance of the development in addressing the city’s housing crisis. “With nearly 100 New Yorkers moving into ‘The Plains,’ we are giving individuals the opportunity to live with dignity. This building is a testament to the innovative design and dedication of our team.”

The process for leasing the affordable units began earlier this month, with applications submitted through the New York State Office of Homes and Community Renewal’s (HCR) housing lottery. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned after the leasing is complete.

Local officials have expressed their support for the project. Bronx Borough President

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WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

CARIBNEWS

13

Fordham University Launches a New Conversation Series Geared to Faith, Education, and Civic Engagement

by Carib News Staff

As many minds and hearts are focused on the upcoming presidential election, institutions of faith and academia have become an area of focus when it comes to educating voters –and potential voters – about the importance of civic engagement. This is especially true when it comes to Black voters.

A recent report from the Pew Research Center highlights “Black eligible voters stand out for turnout rates that are higher than among Latino and Asian eligible voters”. The report further offers: Black Americans are projected to account for 14.0% of eligible voters in the U.S. in November. The percentage of eligible voters who are Black has risen slowly in the past two decades . . . Black voters could play an important role in determining the outcome of key 2024 elections, including for U.S. President. (Krogstad, J.M., and Moslimani, M., January 10, 2024).

On Sunday afternoon, September 22nd, nearly 300 attendees filled the Costantino Room at the Fordham Law School’s Lincoln Center campus, with a few dozen attending virtually via Zoom webinar, as the University hosted the first event of a new series titled Faith, Education, and Civic Engagement Conversation Series. The event was free and open to the public, thanks to the generous support of The Office of the President and Anthony Berry, a 2024 Fitzsimons Fellow.

Included in the discussion were renowned faith and education leaders Rev. Dr. Derrick Harkins, a former Presidential Appointee, National Director of Faith Outreach for the Democratic National Committee, and Principal

of The Raben Group, a top public affairs and consulting firm, and Rev. Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard, Executive Chief of Staff to the President of the Borough of Manhattan Community College.

“I am thrilled to continue working with Fordham University, from which I earned a doctorate, on important conversations concerning faith and education, and to now extend that dialogue to include civic engagement during this critical time in our country’s history. It’s been the driving force of my work as both an educator and a faith leader,” says Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard. Dr. Derrick Harkins continues, “I have had the opportunity as a faith leader to be on the inside of what it looks like to have productive, positive and informed civic engagement, both via the Obama-Biden and the Biden-Harris administrations. Inclusive civic engagement not only means progress, but it also means freedom. And that’s what we hope to impart in these conversations.”

Also on the panel were Rev. Rashad Raymond Moore, PhD, Pastor, First Baptist Church of Crown Heights in Brooklyn, and Tanya R. Kennedy, Associate Justice, Supreme Court of the State of New York, Appellate Division and an Adjunct Professor at Fordham School of Law. Jamila Ponton Bragg, Founder of JamRock Productions LLC and Manager of the Broadway Women’s Fund, moderated the panel.

Upon reflection of the discussion, Rev. Moore wrote, “Sis. Jamila asked a question that has stayed with me: How do I encourage leadership among the younger generation? As such, I

recalled wisdom from the philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre: Moral traditions decay, disintegrate, and disappear while others are sustained and strengthened… A living tradition—a tradition that is vital—embodies continuities of conflict.

Traditions are sustained by those who challenge and agitate for change, who ask critical questions, raise objections to unjust practices, and speak truth.”

The discussion’s foundation was built upon the Black Education: Faith, Race and Educational Equity (BE: FREE) research initiative. Driven

by Dr. Phillip A. Smith, Assistant Professor at Fordham’s Graduate School of Education, BE: FREE showcases innovative, culturally rich educational practices, leadership, and community engagement, towards sustained outcomes for students, schools, and communities.

“The 2024 presidential, congressional, and local elections represent a historic season of decisions for our generation to be civically engaged. This is a moment with profound implications for all communities, and especially so for those from race-marginalized backgrounds,” says Dr. Smith. “It’s more important than ever that these communities are energized and motivated to be involved in the process, not just for what’s happening this year but also going into the future. These conversations will be designed to continue to build on the excitement of going to the polls in November to vote for the next President of the United States but to also understand that we all have a role, no matter what political party you may affiliate with, if any political

party at all.”

Renowned vocalist C. Anthony Bryant performed musical selections, and award-winning actor Courtney B. Vance provided closing remarks.

Organizers announced that there will be a second event on October 20th, also to be held at the Fordham’s Lincoln Center campus, at 2:00PM; doors will open at 1:00PM. Confirmed panelists for the October 20th event, alongside Dr. Harkins will include Rev. Dr. Eboni Marshall Turman, Published Author and Associate Professor of Theology and African American Religion, Yale University; Joy Bivins, Director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, as well as Afrika Owes, a recent Fordham Law School graduate and an extraordinary emerging attorney whose social media post about passing the bar on her first attempt went viral. Bragg will also moderate the panel next month.

An important, but separate, part of the afternoon was the on-site voter education and registration drive provided by The Pi Kappa Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Volunteers were on hand for anyone who had questions about their voter status or those who need to register to vote. The voter education and registration began once the conversation closed.

Advance registration will be required for both in-person and virtual attendance for October 20th and can be completed by visiting: http:// bit.ly/3zzr4ko

14

CARIBNEWS

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

Senator Parker Hosts Black College Expo Brooklyn, NY--Championing access to higher education has been a hallmark of State Senator Kevin Parker’s leadership throughout his time in the Senate. Continuing this mission, the Brooklyn lawmaker partnered with Black College Expo to host a Black College Expo event at Long Island University.

The expo provided students and families with an opportunity to explore higher education options while celebrating the achievements and contributions of the Black community in an educational and resource-rich environment. “I am truly honored to have spearheaded the Black College Expo, an impactful event that uplifts our youth and showcases the limitless opportunities higher education provides,” said Senator Parker. “By linking students to crucial resources and pathways to success, we are not just opening doors—we are unlocking their potential for a brighter, more promising future.” The Black College Expo drew a diverse crowd of students, parents, and educators, eager to engage with colleges, explore scholarship options, and attend informative workshops. Dr. Teresa Price, Founder of the National College Resources Foundation and Black College Expo, expressed her excitement about the event’s impact and its potential to shape the future of the students involved. “We are so excited to have Senator Parker partner with us again to provide scholarships to these amazing students. Together we have provided over $100,000 in scholarships for students helping to make their college aspirations attainable. We want to help as many students as possible achieve their dream of going to college,” said Dr. Price. A highlight of the event was Senator Parker’s presentation of two $1,000 donations to deserving students which underscored his ongoing dedication to fostering educational growth and ensuring that financial challenges don’t stand in the way of academic success.

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

CARIBBRIEFS

Security Council Renews Haiti Mission Mandate At least 3,661 people have been killed in Haiti since January due to rampant gang violence, “maintaining the high levels of violence seen in 2023,” the UN human rights office, OHCHR, said in a report issued on Friday.

Tackling insecurity in the Caribbean country must be the utmost priority, the report said, urging the authorities and the international community to do more to protect people and prevent further suffering.

“No more lives should be lost to this senseless criminality,” said UN High Commis-

sioner for Human Rights Volker Türk.

Abuse, rape and intimidation Haiti has been plagued by violence and insecurity at the hands of armed gangs, amid ongoing political, socioeconomic and humanitarian challenges.

The situation escalated in March, when gangs mounted coordinated attacks against key government sites, including several police stations and two of the main prisons in the capital, Port-au-Prince.

The report details extremely serious patterns of human rights violations...

Guyana - Urged to Repeal Anti-Same-Sex Laws Guyana has been told that the tourism industry could bring US$1 billion in revenue annually if it repeals some of the “colonial” era laws that could be used to discriminate against same-sex couples.

President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Dee George, speaking at a Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) event, said that Guyana should position itself to cash in on the global Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) tourism market which

contributes US$200 billion annually to the travel industry, and US$65 billion annually alone from the United States’ LGBTQ+ segment of tourists.

“Assuming Guyana can capture just one percent of the global LGBTQ+ travel market, this would translate to an estimated annual revenue increase of two billion dollars,” George told the Guyana Together event, ahead of the September 27 observance of World Tourism Day.

15

T&T – PM Rowley Wants to Create a Culture of Love and Responsibility

To ensure that the country’s kids are raised properly, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has called on parents and guardians to instill a culture of love and accountability in their homes.

The prime minister utilized his Republic Day speech to emphasize the nation’s recent achievements, such as our effective term-ending as the United Nations General Assembly’s President.

He declared: “This is further testimony

to the strength of this country’s foreign policy, formulated in 1962 with respect for the equality and sovereignty of all states, and adherence to international law.”

Additionally, he emphasized that the nation has advanced significantly, “which should be felt by and known to all citizens.”

Rowley stated, “We are just two small islands, yet our impact on the world stage could be described...

Andrea Bocelli Plans to Aid Schools in Haiti, Honored

Andrea Bocelli has been named the recipient of the 2024 Morton E. Ruderman Award in Inclusion, a prestigious honor presented by The Ruderman Family Foundation. Bocelli is being celebrated not only for his illustrious musical career but also for his tireless philanthropic work through the Andrea Bocelli Foundation (ABF). As part of this recognition, ABF will receive a $100,000 contribution to support the rebuilding of schools in Haiti.

Bocelli will formally accept the award during a visit to Boston later this year,

coinciding with his 2024 holiday tour.

Reflecting on the honor, Bocelli expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Throughout my life, whether through music or philanthropy, I have focused on giving a voice to the voiceless and creating opportunities for those in need. It’s a true privilege to receive this award from the Ruderman Family Foundation, an organization that shares my commitment to creating a more inclusive world.”

Since its founding in 2011, the Andrea Bocelli Foundation has raised 70 million.

16

CARIBHEALTH

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

New Bill Lowers Insurance Premium and Curbs Fraud for For-Hire Drivers

NEW YORK – Today, Council Member Carmen de la Rosa (D-Manhattan, District 10) introduced a major new bill to reduce the excessive, costly insurance coverage requirements for struggling Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) drivers in New York City. This much-needed reform will reduce the Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage requirement for TLC drivers, aligning it with the coverage standards set for Transportation Network Company (TNC) drivers and personal vehicle drivers across New York State.

Currently, for-hire drivers in New York City are required to maintain $200,000 in PIP insurance coverage per person—four times the $50,000 requirement for similar drivers throughout the rest of the state. This disparity places an unnecessary financial burden on for-hire drivers in New York City, while also fostering an environment where insurance fraud is incentivized by the higher coverage limit.

The legislation comes at a critical time for the industry as the largest insurer of taxis and Ubers in the city, American Transit Insurance Company, faces collapse, threatening the jobs of 74,000 drivers (more than 60 percent of the city’s fleet). By lowering insurance require-

ments, this bill will also help avert the fallout from ATIC’s insolvency.

Council Member Carmen De La Rosa, Chair of the Committee on Civil Service and Labor at the New York City Council said, “This bill addresses an urgent problem facing our city’s hardworking for-hire drivers. By reducing the insurance requirement from $200,000 to $50,000, we are creating an equal standard across New York State, reducing drivers’ out-ofpocket costs, and making the insurance market more accessible to additional carriers. This will be a major breakthrough to help for-hire drivers, root out fraud, and stabilize the insurance market in an industry that has sustained New York’s working-families for generations.”

Key benefits of the bill include: Lower Insurance Costs: Bringing the PIP coverage requirement down to $50,000 will significantly reduce insurance costs for all TLC drivers, who are already facing high commercial auto premiums. It will also pass along savings to consumers.

Fraud Reduction: The current high PIP limits have fostered an environment for fraudulent claims, as fraudsters target the higher insurance payouts available under NYC’s $200,000

Council Member De La Rosa coverage limit. According to a report released by the New York State Department of Financial Services, suspected no-fault fraud reports accounted for 75% of all fraud reports the department received in 2023. Lowering the limit will help curb these abuses, benefiting both insurers and drivers.

Increased Market Competition: Reducing the PIP threshold will make the NYC market more attractive to insurance carriers, increasing

competition and providing more options for drivers.

New York City drivers of for-hire vehicles, including Uber, Lyft, yellow taxi, and livery, are already covered by additional benefits through the Black Car Fund or Workers’ Compensation for yellow taxi drivers, which further diminishes the need for such a high PIP requirement. These benefits, which include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and death benefits, also overlap significantly with PIP coverage, making the current $200,000 threshold redundant and unnecessary.

The bill also comes at a critical time, as the number of insurance carriers offering commercial auto insurance in NYC has dwindled, with the largest provider facing financial instability.

“We must act now to protect drivers and ensure they can afford the insurance coverage they need without being weighed down by excessive costs. This is a big step towards tackling the affordability crisis head on,” added Council Member De La Rosa.

The bill is expected to receive widespread support from driver advocates, industry stakeholders, and fellow Council Members. A copy of the bill is available here.

Haiti - Hunger at Famine Level as Gang Violence Increases Haiti is grappling with an escalating hunger crisis, with nearly half of the country’s population of over 11 million people experiencing severe food insecurity. A recent report reveals that 5.4 million Haitians are facing crisis or worse levels of hunger, including 5,636 people on the brink of starvation. This marks a sharp increase of 1.2 million people over the past year, largely due to gang violence that has paralyzed daily life in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and beyond.

The report, released by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, highlights the devastating impact of gang control on the transportation of goods and people’s ability to leave their homes. “This is one of the highest proportions of acutely food-insecure people in any crisis around the world,” said U.N. spokesman Stéphane Dujarric.

Gang violence, which has spread across 80% of Port-au-Prince, has blocked crucial roads, cutting off farmers and aid workers from delivering food. In addition to the violence, inflation has soared to 30%, making food unaffordable for many Haitians. A typical food basket has risen by 11% in cost over the past year, and food now makes up 70% of household expenses.

“The situation is shocking,” said Martine Villeneuve, Haiti director for Action Against Hunger. “We were not expecting that level.

Two million people in hunger is massive.”

While the violence is the primary driver, many communities far from gang hotspots are also suffering from hunger. Years of natural disasters, including the devastating 2021 earthquake, droughts, and the 2016 Hurricane Matthew, have compounded the crisis.

Despite some progress from a U.N.-backed mission led by Kenya to quell gang activity,

officials acknowledge that much work remains. Humanitarian agencies have issued an urgent call for an additional $230 million in funding to address the growing needs.

Among those hardest hit are families living in makeshift shelters, where 70% of the population faces severe hunger. Joceline St-Louis, a 28-year-old mother, described the heartbreaking reality of feeding her children.

“Food doesn’t come around very often,” she said, holding her 1-year-old son who relies on nutritional supplements to survive. “I’m sometimes so depressed that I want to kill the kids and myself.”

Families like St-Louis’s rely on sporadic aid distributions that often end in chaos and fights. Others, like Judeline Auguste, 39, depend on remittances from abroad, which barely cover basic needs. “It’s very rare that I can get a meal a day,” Auguste said, adding that her 8-year-old son often cries in hunger.

With violence and hunger stretching across northern, central, and southern Haiti, many families like Jean Yonel’s struggle to survive.

Yonel, a father of seven, used to work as a mason but now scavenges for wood to make charcoal. “Some days, we eat only white rice or spaghetti,” he said. “We take just a spoonful of food and leave the rest for the kids so they don’t die.”

The crisis shows no signs of abating, and with a nation already battered by violence, inflation, and natural disasters, the outlook remains dire. “Haiti continues to face a worsening humanitarian crisis,” the report concluded, underscoring the need for immediate and sustained international support.

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

CARIBA&E

17

T&T – Elton John Lauds the Naming of Winifred Atwell Hall Elton John, a pianist, singer-songwriter, and five-time Grammy Award winner, selling over 300 million in record has commended Trinidad & Tobago for renaming Queen’s Hall Auditorium in honor of a Trini-born pianist whom he considers his first inspiration.

John stated in a video message that was shown during the September 23 renaming ceremony: “Winifred Atwell…gave me the momentum to become who I am. Congratulations to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago on renaming the Queen’s Hall Auditorium to the Winifred Atwell Auditorium. Well deserved and thank you so much.”

John revisits memories as a young child learning to play the piano. The legend recalled his family purchasing many of Atwell’s albums to aid in his practice as a young musician.

John shared, “The turning point for me with Winifred Atwell was seeing her on television. Seeing how beautiful she was, her smile, the way she played the piano.”

“She could do classical things, she could do great boogie-woogie stuff…I was entranced by her. She fascinated me and I fell in love with her. I fell in love with her kindness. She had an aura of kindness and talent and her smile – I copied that smile.”

“I idolized her. She was literally my first idol as a piano player and it’s never left me really. She’s always in my heart.”

Atwell’s influence on John and his admiration for her are well-documented; in his 2019 autobiography, Me, he referred to her as “a big, immensely jolly Trinidadian lady who performed onstage with two pianos.”

“I loved her sense of glee, the slightly camp way she would announce, ‘And now, I’m going to my other piano’; the way she

would lean back and look at the audience with a huge grin on her face while she was playing, like she was having the best time in the world,” he noted.

John mentioned in his video message that once he became successful in show business, he was able to meet her at an airport.

“She came over to me and we both gave each other the biggest hug and she bought me a Koala bear which I thought was so sweet. So, I did meet my idol.”

On August 22, the government gave the name change approval. Growing up in Tunapuna, Atwell was born in 1915. In 1946, she relocated to England from New York following World War II. Over 20 million albums of her boogie-woogie and ragtime classics made her extremely successful in Britain and Australia starting in the 1950s.

She was the only female instrumentalist

to achieve a number-one hit in the UK Singles Chart as of 2023 and the first Black artist to accomplish it. For her contributions to global music, she received the Hummingbird Gold Medal in 1969.

St. Croix to Welcome UberSoca Cruise for J’Ouvert Celebration

The V.I. Department of Tourism and the Division of Festivals have announced that the 2024 UberSoca Cruise will be making its way to St. Croix for an exciting day of cultural celebrations and festivities.

This year’s event will mark an important milestone as it represents the 10th voyage for UberSoca Cruise. Over 2,500 revelers are expected to be aboard the Norwegian Jade, which will dock at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility in Frederiksted on October 24.

The festivities will kick off with the UberSoca Cruise x USVI J’ouvert, a lively parade through the streets of Frederiksted, presented by the Department of Tourism.

This year’s J’Ouvert, themed around a vibrant Zombie-inspired road march, will see cruise guests and locals alike reveling in Crucian culture, accompanied by music, paint, powder, and foam. The procession will feature local and international entertainment, including performances

by Virgin Islands natives DJ Avalanche and Adam O, as well as a host of other entertainers from the UberSoca Cruise lineup, according to a DOT release issued Monday.

“As we continue to expand marketing the destination to the world, we know the

importance of continued recentering in culture and heritage,” said DOT Commissinoer Joseph Boschulte. “The partnership with UberSoca Cruise allows us to connect and showcase our islands with the Caribbean diaspora and lovers of our rich regional culture.”

The 2-mile J’ouvert route will lead participants to Frederiksted Beach, where the festivities will culminate in a beach party. The event will feature performances by St. Croix’s own Pumpa, as well as international Bouyon artist Asa Bantan.

Local vendors will also be on hand to offer food, drinks, and treats, creating a vibrant atmosphere for both cruise passengers and locals.

“We are thrilled to return to the shores of the US Virgin Islands for our upcoming sailing,” said Nathaniel Turner, CEO and Founder of UberSoca Cruise. “Our 2023 visit to St. Thomas was nothing short of historic, marking a celebration of culture and community. This year, we are excited to bring the USC family to St. Croix and extend a warm invitation to locals and those from surrounding islands to join us on the road for an unforgettable experience.”

Event Schedule for UberSoca Cruise x USVI St. Croix Day: 7:00 a.m.: Norwegian Jade docks at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility.

9:00 a.m.: J’ouvert celebration begins in Frederiksted.

12:00 p.m.: Beach Concert at Frederiksted Beach kicks off.

2:00 p.m.: Beach Concert concludes.

3:00 p.m.: Norwegian Jade departs the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility.

18

CARIBTRAVEL

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

Global Hotelier Sam Nazarian & Global Business Icon Tony Robbins Announce ‘The Estate’ NEW YORK, NY - Following Bloomberg Pursuits exclusive reveal earlier today, global hospitality leader Sam Nazarian, best-selling author and life-coach Tony Robbins, global music icon Marc Anthony, and international strategist Richard Attias, have announced The Estate – a revolutionary investment in St Kitts & Nevis marking the first luxury hospitality and residential ecosystem in the Caribbean.

This groundbreaking luxury hotel platform, titled simply, The Estate, is the vision of Nazarian, the founder and CEO of sbe, and Tony Robbins, an entrepreneur, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, philanthropist, and the US’s #1 life & business strategist. They are joined by partner and global music icon and ambassador of Latin music and culture, Marc Anthony, and international strategist and visionary architect of global influence, Richard Attias.

The first of four Estate Luxury Hotels & Residences will launch in St Kitts and Nevis, home to less than 50,000 people, in 2026. Never in the wider Caribbean have such influential and powerful business and cultural icons as Robbins, Anthony, Nazarian and Attias, with up to 150-million followers across all social media, put their names to such a development.

The Prime Minister of St Kitts & Nevis, a medical doctor, was instrumental in securing this global innovation in medical wellness ahead of the United Kingdom, Italy, Switzerland, and the GCC, (Gulf Cooperation Council).

Always ahead of the curve, Sam and Tony

began developing the luxury hotel brand of the future concept pre-pandemic. They resolved to create a new omnichannel approach to longevity, meeting the customer wherever they are rather than solely a destination offering.

The Estate will lead the luxury hotel industry through its resorts and collection of urban preventative and longevity centers in core markets through partnership with industry leader Fountain Life, the leader in disease detection, prevention and reversal, providing the knowledge, coaching, andtherapeutics that can increase vitality and health span, and turn back the clock on aging.

The Luxury Hotels & Residences is set to quickly become the largest ecosystem of preventative medicine and longevity in the world featuring 15 global hotels & residences and 10 urban preventative medicine and longevity centers by 2030, totaling 25 world-class centers in partnership with Fountain Life.

The Estate will partner in select urban locations with globally renowned Clinique La Prairie, the leader in longevity for more than 90 years, under the leadership of CEO Simone Gibertoni, offering premier holistic treatments through the ‘Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie’ and their iconic line of Longevity Supplements® ‘CLP Holistic Health®.’

“In 2006 I created SLS Hotels, a brand both relevant and disruptive for the emerging lifestyle industry. Then, lifestyle was ‘access’, now luxury is ‘longevity’,” commented Nazarian.

New Babymoon Package at Sandals and Beaches Resorts

Designed for couples to recharge and reconnect before welcoming their baby, Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts’ new Babymoon Package makes celebrating the next chapter an island breeze. Curated with the help of a dedicated Celebration Concierge, the Babymoon Package can be fully customized, beginning directly after booking with an online preference survey.

Upon arrival at the resort, the Celebration Concierge will meet one-on-one with couples to discuss their preferences and will be the point of contact throughout their stay to craft the perfect vacation. To help satisfy those pregnancy cravings, moms will be treated to a dedicated “Cravings Menu.” Available across resorts from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to Jamaica and beyond, the “Cravings Menu” of-

fers sweet and savory snacks like chocolate chip cookies, loaded chips and salsa, pink-sprinkled doughnuts, fruit sushi, and more—all delivered straight to guests’ rooms. Expecting moms will sleep comfortably with a maternity pillow and sleep mask, and can enjoy breakfast in bed one morning of their choosing as part of the package. On-resort, the Celebration Concierge will arrange a romantic candlelight dinner, a parents-to-be spa day at the Red Lane Spa with a prenatal treatment for mom and Swedish massage for dad, and a baby bump photoshoot with 10 digital images to take home and cherish the moment forever. The Babymoon Package is available as an add-on priced at $900 and can be enhanced with the help of the Celebration Concierge.

“The Estate will lead with luxury. In 2024, we are disrupting again, by bringing together global market leaders, providing a platform for the best ideas to surface, and giving them scale.

We are not building medical hotels – we are building luxury hotels, residences and urban clinics that are differentiated by a commitment to changing people’s lives. I have the honor of working with titans I have always admired, who share the same vision. Tony, Marc and Richard have led globally celebrated careers of excellence and inspiration, rooted in philanthropy and love and I couldn’t be more proud to start this journey with them.”

“High-quality preventative medicine has significantly enhanced my own life and I’m thrilled to collaborate with Sam on launching The Estate,” said Robbins. “By meeting people where they are, we blend a five-star experience with some of the world’s leading experts and offerings in preventative diagnostics and longevity on a global scale.”

“The Estate is a truly unique and transformative project, and I’m excited to partner with Sam and Tony to bring it to the world,” added Anthony. “Working alongside visionaries like Sam and Tony – individuals I’ve long admired for their dedication to excellence, philanthropy, and love – is an incredible honor. I couldn’t be prouder to embark on this journey with them. Together, we’re merging five-star luxury with the expertise of the world’s top specialists in preventative diagnostics and

longevity. The Estate will re-define what luxury means, setting a new standard for the future.”

“The Estate represents a bold convergence of luxury, innovation, and purpose—an approach that aligns deeply with my work in creating transformative global platforms,” stated Attias.

“This project is more than just another development; it is a revolutionary ecosystem where world-class hospitality meets the cutting edge of preventative medicine, AI, and longevity. We are setting a new standard for how we live and thrive.”

The fact that the Estate will, through the sbe Foundation, ensure that underprivileged communities are able to access preventative diagnostics and treatments by working with partner charities, would surely benefit the wider community of St Kitts & Nevis. Construction in St. Kitts & Nevis is expected to start in the first half of 2025 to support the first planned pre-sales of residential sales units, anticipated to begin later that summer.

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

CARIBDINING

19

Aim for Healthier Hydration with a Habit-Building Beverage Begin building tiny, healthier practices into routines you already have to help make it easier to establish habits you can stick to. This concept is called “habit stacking,” and it can help you improve habits from morning to night.

Consider those busy mornings when you need an on-the-go solution – rather than opting for sugary foods and drinks, turn to Green Tea Berry Banana Smoothies that include unsweetened green tea. When incorporated as part of an overall healthy diet, unsweetened tea can support heart health.

This no-sugar-added recipe from Lipton, a proud national sponsor of the American Heart Association’s Life is Why campaign, can help you enjoy healthier mornings while checking emails or hydrating before heading to the office.

Choosing beverages with no added sugars can contribute to a healthy heart, according to the American Heart Association, making these

smoothies perfect for building into a morning routine. Because it’s predominantly water, which is needed to keep your body running at its best, unsweetened tea provides a delicious way to hydrate without ditching those healthier habits.

Visit Heart.org/eatsmart to find more habits that contribute to heart health.

Green Tea Berry Banana Smoothies Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association Servings: 4 (1 1/2 cups per serving) 3 cups water 8 single-serving green tea bags 16 ounces frozen mixed berries (about 3 cups) 2 medium bananas, peeled, cut in half and frozen 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt

A Bowl Full of Flavor

If you’re looking for a dinner or lunch combination that is wholesome, filling and, of course, easy, you’re not alone. Meal prepping is a popular trend for many people (and families) who are working on healthy eating habits but are constantly on the go.

No matter if you’re searching for a healthy family dinner, a quick lunch at home or an easy idea to meal prep for the week ahead, this Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowl is perfect for seafood lovers who also enjoy a hint of spice. It’s fresh, healthy and full of deliciously prepared shrimp and veggies, including mushrooms, peppers and cucumbers.

The sauce is light and has a sweet yet spicy vibe.

Everything rests over 1 cup of steamy quinoa – a filling base that also serves as an easy way to add some healthy grains to your diet.

To make this quick and easy recipe, prepare the quinoa according to the package directions and set aside.

Next, combine orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso in a medium bowl and whisk together.

Pour about one-fourth of the liquid into a separate bowl and set aside the smaller portion.

In the medium bowl, add shrimp to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Add butter to a hot skillet, along with the shrimp mixture. Cook shrimp for 2 minutes on each side then add mushrooms and cook until tender.

Now it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start with quinoa then top with bell peppers, cucum bers, green onions, avocado and the perfectly

2 teaspoons fresh-grated peeled gingerroot (optional) 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional) 2 teaspoons chia or flax seeds (optional)

and monounsaturated fat); 3 mg cholesterol; 23 mg sodium; 29 g carbohydrates; 5 g fiber; 18 g total sugars (0 g added sugars); 8 g protein.

In small saucepan over high heat, bring water to boil. Remove pan from heat. Submerge tea bags. Steep 4 minutes. Discard tea bags. Let tea mixture cool 30 minutes. Pour into pitcher.

Refrigerate 2 hours, or until chilled.

In food processor or blender, process tea, berries, bananas and yogurt until smooth. Add gingerroot and vanilla, if desired, and process until smooth. Pour into four glasses. Sprinkle with chia seeds, if desired.

Nutritional information per serving (without optional ingredients): 136 calories; 1 g total fat (0 g saturated fat, trans fat, polyunsaturated fat

Add shrimp to remaining mixture and marinate 15 minutes.

Heat large skillet over medium heat with butter.

Add shrimp, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes on each side until pink. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.

In two serving bowls, divide quinoa, bell pepper, cucumber, onions, avocado and shrimp.

Sprinkle sesame seeds and cilantro over both bowls.

Drizzle with reserved dressing.

pink shrimp. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and cilantro for some extra texture. Drizzle bowls with the remaining sauce.

Find more wholesome and healthy recipes at Culinary.net.

Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls Serves: 2 1 cup quinoa 1 cup orange juice 1 tablespoon hot sauce 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon soy sauce 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon white miso 1/4 cup butter 1 1/2 pounds shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 cucumber, sliced into half moons 5 green onions, sliced 1 avocado, sliced 1 teaspoon sesame seeds 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.

In medium bowl, whisk orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso until combined. Pour one-quarter of liquid into separate bowl. Set aside.

Marva Layne: A Culinary Journey from Island Spice to Negril Village NEGRIL VILLAGE: 70 W. 3RD STREET, NY.NY 10012 (212) 477-2804 Marva Layne, the seasoned Manhattan restaurateur, her warmth and passion for food envelop you, instantly forging a connection. With over four decades in the food business, Marva's journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Inspired by her familial roots and driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, Marva has carved her niche in New York City's vibrant culinary landscape.

Marva's culinary odyssey began in the late 1980s with Island Spice, a quaint Jamaican bakery nestled in Hell's Kitchen. With offerings ranging from savory soups and pastries to delectable patties, Island Spice quickly became a favorite eatery among the neighborhood's music and art aficionados. Marva attributes her culinary prowess to the teachings of her aunts, who instilled in her the essence of love in every dish she prepared.

While Island Spice became a staple of the community, Marva yearned for growth, supply needed to meet demand and expansion was necessary thus, Negril Chelsea emerged as her next venture. This location was the first of its kind offering Caribbean food like Smoked Corn Soup and Mango BBQ Wings, different but a welcome addition to

the neighborhood. Its popularity grew, Negril Chelsea became the Mecca for colorful, tropical flavorful Jamaican cuisine and was a testament to Marva's entrepreneurial acumen and culinary creativity.

Buoyed by its success, Marva opened Negril Village in 2001 situated in New York's West Village.

Negril Village is a culinary sanctuary, offering an authentic and fashionable Jamaican dining experience. Following a lavish refurbishment during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic, Negril Village emerged as a beacon of culinary vibrancy and hospitality.

With its tantalizing menu, pulsating ambiance, and impeccable service, Negril Village stands as a testament to Marva's vision and tenacity.

Marva's culinary repertoire transcends boundaries, infusing traditional Jamaican cuisine with global influence and adding her own flair. Her dishes, meticulously crafted and artfully presented, redefine Caribbean culinary offerings anywhere, delivering a symphony of flavors, textures and combinations.

From aromatic spice seasoned; fall off the bone slow cooked oxtail, to their Jerk Salmon, flamed grilled and finished in an Old Rhum sauce; accompanied by mashed white yams and grilled asparagus drizzled with a

silky jerk sauce. Every dish at Negril Village is a culinary masterpiece.

Whether you seek a taste of authentic Jamaican cuisine, a vibrant atmosphere, or an unforgettable culinary journey, Negril Village beckons. Marva Layne's indelible imprint on New York City's culinary landscape is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to the art of culinary excellence. Every dish she serves, Marva weaves a tapestry of eclectic flavors, deep rooted history, and an abundance of love; testament to her culinary legacy that continues to captivate palates and hearts alike.

Always developing and expanding her culinary prowess and undeterred by challenges, Marva's entrepreneurial spirit knows no bounds. Jerk'd-Modern Caribbean Kitchen, her latest venture in Hackensack, New Jersey, epitomizes affordable yet authentic Jamaican cuisine. This concept caters to the ever moving pace of life, Jamaican food on the go, hot and ready for take out or a quick dine and dash.

Marva's ventures include Negril Village, Jerk'd-Modern Caribbean Kitchen and the Negril Atlanta Group; which further solidify her reputation as a trailblazer in the

world of Jamaican cuisine and underscores her commitment to culinary excellence and innovation.

Overall, Marva Layne's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence in the culinary arts. Her restaurants not only serve delicious food but also provide a welcoming environment where patrons can immerse themselves in the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Jamaica.

20

CARIBSPORTS

WEEK ENDING OCTOBER 8, 2024

Former West Indies Captain Receives Prestigious Hummingbird Medal ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) extends warmest congratulations to former West Indies Captain Merissa Aguilleira on her remarkable achievement of receiving the prestigious Hummingbird Medal (HBM) Gold Award at the 2024 National Awards of Trinidad & Tobago. The awards ceremony took place on Tuesday 24th September, at the President’s House in St Ann’s, Port-of-Spain.

CWI President, Dr. Kishore Shallow congratulated the former captain on behalf of the organisation. Dr. Shallow said, “On behalf of the CWI Board and Management, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Merissa for the well-deserved recognition conferred upon her. Merissa’s exemplary dedication and outstanding contributions serve as an inspiration to us all. As she embraces and embarks on other influential roles in cricket, particularly to develop other young athletes, we express our gratitude for her ongoing commitment and wish her continued success.”

The Hummingbird Medal Gold Award is one of Trinidad & Tobago’s highest

honours, recognising loyal and devoted service beneficial to Trinidad and Tobago, in any field of human endeavour or for gallantry or other humane action. Merissa was recognised not only for her immense contributions as a Trinidad and Tobago national to the West Indies team, but for her contributions to the sport on the island.

Despite her retirement in 2019, Merissa Aguilleira remains an inspiring figure for

aspiring cricketers, particularly women in the sport. Her journey and achievements highlight the growth of women’s cricket and the impact of dedicated athletes in challenging traditional norms. As a player and a leader, Aguilleira has left an indelible mark on the game, paving the way for future generations.

Merissa played in over 100 One Day Internationals (ODIs) and captained the West Indies Women from 2009-2015, a pe-

riod during which she led the team to the final of the ICC Women’s World Cup in India 2013, and the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s World T20 in 2010, 2012 and 2014 and was part of the 2016 ICC Women’s World T20 winning team in Kolkata.

In her primary role as a wicketkeeper, she has over 100 dismissals in ODI cricket, having recently achieving the magical three figures during the home series against South Africa Women in September 2018. In addition, she has over 70 dismissals in T20 internationals (T20Is) from the 95 matches she has played. Having made her ODI debut against the Netherlands Women in July of 2008 and her T20I debut against South Africa in June of 2009, she played 112 ODI matches, amassing 1752 runs at an average of 20.61 and 95 T20Is, scoring 768 runs at an average of 14.49.

In 2023, CWI Vice President, Azim Bassarath and former West Indies twotime world champion, Samuel Badree also received The Hummingbird Medal Gold Award.

Saprissa Hosts Antigua With Semifinals, CCC Berth on the Line away goal rule serving as the first tiebreaker in the knockout round.

If the two sides play to a nil-nil draw again, extra time will be played with the

MIAMI — The 2024 Concacaf Central American Cup quarterfinals conclude with second-leg encounters, as the remaining eight teams continue their quests to be crowned champions in early December.

A place in the semifinals is not the only thing at stake. The semi-finalists will also qualify for the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. Deportivo Saprissa vs. Antigua GFC Deportivo Saprissa hosts Antigua at Estadio Ricardo Saprissa in San Juan de Tibás, Costa Rica. The two teams played to a scoreless draw in the first leg.

Saprissa enters the match on a run of four wins in its past six matches in the competition. The Costa Rican club will also aim to improve its unbeaten home record in the

CCAC, boasting five wins and a draw.

A victory would secure Saprissa’s best finish in the tournament after reaching the quarterfinals in 2023. Ariel Rodríguez is the club’s all-time CCAC scorer with six goals. Javon East has registered the most assists for the club in the CCAC with four.

Antigua remains unbeaten in its debut campaign, recording two wins and three draws. The Guatemalan club will seek a spot in the semifinals to continue its impressive start.

José Ardón leads Antigua in scoring with three goals, and Romario Da Silva leads the team in assists with three.

Because of the result of the first leg, either side only depends on an outright victory to advance. Any draw other than nil-nil would favor the Guatemalan side, with the

away goals rule no longer in effect after regulation. If a winner is not determined through extra time, a penalty shootout will decide the series.