November 13, 2024

VOL. XLIII NO. 2193 WEEK OF NOVEMBER 13 - 19, 2024 HAITI

PRIME MINISTER FIRED

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(OUT OF TOWN) $1.50

GRAPPLING WITH LOSS

By Transitional Council

AIRPORT SHUT DOWN Because of continued gang violence people fleeing

Page 4

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

NO DEVALUATION OF THE DOLLAR Says Minister of Finance Colm Imbert as country tries to cope with shortage of foreign exchange

Page 2

FLORIDA

JAMAICAN ELECTED MAYOR OF LAUDERHILL Denise Grant was first elected as the first Black Mayor of that city

Page 6 NEW YORK

MINORITY VOTE PROTECTION Struck down by Upstate judge - weakens the voice of Blacks and Hispanics

Page 19 A&E

RIHANNA TO RETIRE

The artist hints at the possibility - says God might have some other work for her

Page 17 SPIRITUALITY

KAMALA VOWS

DETERMINATION NOT DESPAIR

PLANS TO CONTINUE TO FIGHT A GREAT LOSS

DR. MICHELLE MALCOLM-JAMES PASSES

President of OID and a strong health advocate - provided mobile cancer screening activities

Page 13

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CaribNews EDITORIAL For Black Americans, ‘Sundown’ Approaches as a Fateful Inauguration Looms

by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA - P 9

EDITORIAL Why We Cannot and Will Not Go Backwards on Clean Energy

by Ben Jealous - P 9

HEALTH COP29 Climate Summit - ‘Pay Up or Humanity Will Pay The Price’, Guterres Warns - P 16

SPORTS Usain Bolt to Athletes, Stay Away from Drugs - P 20

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

AFRICA Nigeria: 33 million could face hunger next year

Children face unprecedented crisis amid rising violence in Haiti

Three UN agencies appealed on Tuesday for lifesaving support in Nigeria, where record inflation, climate shocks and ongoing conflicts are projected to push the number of food insecure people to 33 million in 2025.

The figure represents a sharp increase from the 25 million who need assistance today, the World Food Programme (WFP) said in a joint statement alongside the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

“Never before have there been so many people in Nigeria without food,” Chi Lael, WFP Spokesperson for the country, told journalists at the UN in Geneva.

This year has seen a staggering 1,000 per cent or ten-fold surge in sexual violence against children in Haiti, during an unprecedented crisis which has seen armed gangs continue to terrorize communities amid a growing humanitarian disaster.

Virginia Gamba, UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, highlighted the impact on children of the extreme levels of brutality and lawlessness across the country.

“Children are being used by armed gangs in Haiti and we are witnessing some recent troubling trends, notably the use of sexual violence, including rape and collective rape, as a weapon of war by gangs.”

“I call on all actors to ensure that children are protected from violence, including sexual violence, and clashes and that they are not involved in hostilities,” she added.

Political crisis Meanwhile, political instability continues to plague the Caribbean island nation as members of the transitional governing council which was formed in April, removed interim Prime Minister Garry Conille from office amid reported in-fighting, replacing him with businessman Alix Didier Fils-Aime.

Avert potential disaster A recent assessment found that immediate support is needed to avert a potential food and nutrition disaster in the face of triple-digit increases in food prices, the aftermath of devastating floods, and 15 years of insurgency in the northeast.

Nigeria faces a monumental hunger crisis in the second half of 2025, particularly in the northeastern states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe, home to some five million people who are facing acute food insecurity.

Other areas including emerging hunger hotspots in Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto states are also at risk.

Sudan: Allies of warring generals ‘enabling the slaughter,’ Security Council hears

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WORLD BRIEFS

The people of Sudan face an ever-deepening crisis as the relentless war between rival militaries pushes the country further into chaos, the UN’s top political affairs official told the Security Council on Tuesday, underscoring that a ceasefire and a negotiated political solution remain the only viable path to peace.

“Sudan is trapped in a nightmare,” Rosemary DiCarlo, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs told ambassadors, echoing the grim declaration made by the Secretary-General two weeks ago.

The latest surge in violence has been especially brutal, notably in eastern Aj Jazirah state (also spelled Gezira), where the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched assaults described by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as among the most severe of the war so far.

Civilians have borne the brunt of these offensives, with countless lives lost, homes destroyed and communities displaced. Reports also indicate shocking violations of human rights, including widespread sexual violence against women and girls.

Both sides responsible Ms. DiCarlo condemned not only the RSF attacks but also the indiscriminate airstrikes by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in civilian-populated areas such as the capital Khartoum and El Fasher, a major city in North Darfur hosting thousands of internally displaced which has been besieged for months by the RSF.

Nicaragua: Alarming erosion of freedom and academic autonomy The UN’s independent Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua has raised alarm over rights violations which have been sanctioned by the Government against the university sector.

In a new report released on Friday, the three-person group of experts – who are appointed by the UN Human Rights Council – found authorities have used physical and psychological violence, including threats of intimidation, beatings and prolonged solitary confinement against both students and faculty.

Some of these cases could amount to torture and largely involve students and professors who participated in widespread anti-Government protests in 2018 or those who have publicly criticised the Government of President Daniel Ortega.

Universities in Nicaragua have long played a historic role as spaces for social change and resistance, dating back to the 1979 Sandinista Revolution, the experts note.

Consequently, “the Nicaraguan Government has directly targeted universities as part of a widespread repressive campaign, eliminating their autonomy and turning them into centres of political control,” said Jan Simon, who chairs the group, none of whom receive payment for their work and who are not UN staff.

Closures, expulsions Between 2021 and 2024, at least 37 universities and higher education institutions – most of which are known for supporting social movements...

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

CARIBNEWS

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Caribbean-American Community Disappointed with Kamala Harris’ Loss

The Caribbean-American community in New York early expressed profound disappointment and frustration over the election of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States.

Trump, the 45th US president, defeated Caribbean-American US Vice President, Kamala Harris, the daughter of Jamaica-born retired economist Dr Donald Harris, in the hotly contested race.

The former president, among other things, survived a criminal conviction, indictments, assassination attempt, and charges of authoritarianism in securing the requisite swing states— including Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania —and won 277 Electoral College votes to reclaim the US presidency. Harris received 224 Electoral College votes.

“It’s very disappointing,” Guyanese-born New York State Senator Roxanne Persaud told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC), adding, “The bottom line is America is not ready for a woman president.

“She’s (Kamala Harris) the best qualified. It’s misogyny; it’s a shame,” added Persaud, who represents the 19th Senate District in Brooklyn, New York, about Harris’ defeat in Tuesday’s US “We have work to do. We’ll never give up.

In terms of moral compass, I don’t think they (Trump and his Republican surrogates) have any. When someone can talk about such evil, and reward him, it’s sad.

“A woman has to jump through all the hoops and still don’t get elected. His (Trump) surrogates are speaking what he wants them to speak. He said he’s going to send immigrants home; it’s the immigrants who are babysitting their children, etc,” Persaud added.

The Jamaica-born community activist, Delroy Wright, said he was in disbelief about the election result.

“I can’t believe it. America has voted for a man who only uses sound bites and has no comprehensive plan on how he’s going to lead this country. He uses sound bites such as ‘immigrants are poisoning the blood of America; they’re taking Black jobs; Kamala is not Black’.

“I can’t understand how America can fall for that,” Wright told CMC. “The economy is clearly good.

Kamala has put forward a clear plan of what she would do for America and even put forward how we would pay for them,” he said, adding “In the traditional America that we know, bread and butter issues were the main reason why a president is elected or got re-elected.

“Trump has had one prior chance, elected, where he inherited a good economy from Obama (former US President Barack Obama), and he ‘tanked’ it, and he mismanaged COVID-19 pandemic – the only major issue he faced as president. He encountered no other major issue, and he mismanaged it to create great harm to this country – a tremendous loss of life – and tanked the economy in the midst of it.

“Come January 20, 2025 (Inauguration Day), he will again inherit a good economy, based on all the standard measurements, and I predict he’s going to ‘tank’ that also,” Wright said.

Brooklyn-based lawyer, Benjamin Pinczewski, who’s very active in the Caribbean-American community and supports several Caribbean elected officials, said he was “very frustrated, disappointed, disgusted and downhearted” with Trump’s victory.

“I’m very disappointed, but I’m not surprised. I think White America was enraged over the fact that Obama was elected president, and they never got over it,” he said, blaming President Joe Biden for the loss.

“He was clearly significantly impaired but refused to step aside until it was too late, unfair to Kamala and to America,” Pinczewski said, adding “never underestimate the hatred so many of our fellow Americans have for people they perceive as ‘different’”.

Grenadian-born adjunct college professor, Martin Felix, warned that it is going to be a long, cold winter, a metaphor for the four

years approaching.

“I think the polls were showing a closer race than what actually transpired,” said Felix, an executive member of the Brooklyn-based group, Caribbean-Americans United in Support of Kamala Harris for President.

“I believe that was because people had cognitive dissonance (mentally conflicted). They may have been too embarrassed to say openly they are voting Trump. But, ultimately, their racism, sexism and anti-immigrant sentiments got the better of them.

“I believe our worst fears came through. Many people were impacted by racism and misogyny, and they allowed base instincts to get better of their reason,” Felix said, noting that while working in polling stations in Brooklyn on Tuesday, “a lot of people were fearful about a Trump administration.

“The danger is real because he (and the Republicans) has the (US) House, the Senate and the Presidency. The thing for us to do right now is to re-organize, regroup, reflect, create.

“There’ll be a lot of attack on Black institutions.

We will need an outlet. So, we have to create those spaces, strengthening our cultural outlets.

We’re going to go through some difficult times, but we have to find time to organize and resist.”

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines-born community worker in Brooklyn, Sherrill-Ann Mason-Haywood, said “we were on the right side of history, but America has spoken loudly.

As sad a day as this may be for us, we have real decisions to make.

T&T - No Devaluation of T&T Dollar says Minister Imbert

The T&T dollar will not be devalued since doing so will not make more foreign exchange available in the nation. “All a devaluation will do is cause a massive spike in the cost of living and make everything more expensive,” stated Finance Minister Colm Imbert.

He said in a press statement that he had observed the previous two weeks of discussion on (1) the foreign exchange availability, (2) the foreign exchange distribution strategy, and (3) the T&T dollar exchange rate.

Economists, industry associations, and commentators have all pointed out the persistent scarcity of the US dollar and the challenges it presents.

He stated, “reality is that the (International Monetary Fund’s) recommendation that the T&T Government should allow the T&T dollar to float, which would result in an immediate devaluation of the T&T dollar, is not new”.

He continued, “As far back as 2012, the IMF recommended ‘greater exchange rate flexibility to allow pricing to play a bigger role in equilibrating the market’. This was repeated in the IMF’s 2013 Article IV Report on Trinidad and Tobago, where the

IMF reiterated its view that ‘our exchange rate should be allowed to fluctuate within a wider band’.”

“However, the then UNC Government told the IMF that they were not contemplating changes to the exchange rate system at that time. Again in 2014, the IMF told the then UNC Government that the foreign exchange allocation system existing at that time ‘had led to an apparently widespread and persistent recurrence of foreign exchange shortages’. However, the then UNC Government did not agree to the IMF’s recommendation that our dollar be allowed to float,” Imbert further noted.

He emphasized that the current PNM government has repeatedly declared since 2015 that it will not place “hardship on the poor and vulnerable” by depreciating the T&T dollar and that it will keep the exchange rate constant in order to manage inflation, which is now among the lowest in the world.

Notably, he said, Barbados, “which has been in an IMF program for many years, and at one time within the last ten years almost ran out of foreign reserves, has resolutely refused for the last 49 years to float or devalue its dollar.

The minister further noted, “The fact is that the Barbados dollar has been pegged to the US dollar at a rate of BB$2 to US$ 1 since 1975. Further, there are exchange control restrictions in Barbados that do not exist in Trinidad.”

He recommended that, despite being part of an IMF program, emphasis be given to Barbados’ ability to limit capital movements and maintain a steady currency for such a long time.

As previously mentioned, he will engage with a number of interest groups over the course of the next month to decide the appropriate course of action regarding the

distribution of foreign exchange to the business sector.

“Again, this is not new, and it was based on representation made by the business community that the Government makes forex available in a targeted manner, that the forex windows at the EximBank, which from all accounts are working well, were created four years ago.”

According to Imbert, the Ministry of Finance established that specific forex window in 2020, and months ago, the government informed EximBank customers that it was re-evaluating the list of necessary imports and the amount of foreign cash available via it.

According to him, the current government has innovated the forex windows for export producers and critical imports at Eximbank to guarantee more focus, equality, and logic in the allocation of the government’s foreign money.

He continued, “The essential imports facility has worked well for the last four years but it needed restructuring because there is no longer any need for preferential access to forex for the importation of items such as face masks, respirators, and hand sanitizers.”

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CARIBNEWS

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

Caricom Condemns Move by Israel to Ban UNRWA in Gaza The 15-member regional integration grouping, CARICOM, Wednesday called on Israel to reverse its decision and allow for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to continue its operations.

“The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) expresses grave concern about the vote taken by the Israeli Knesset on Monday 28 October 2024 to prohibit the humanitarian assistance provided to the people of Palestine by the UNRWA for Palestine Refugees in the Near East,” the grouping said in a statement, adding “the Israeli action is a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter”.

The UN Human Rights Office declared that aid deliveries will “grind to a halt” without UNRWA, and the head of the World Health Organization called the development “intolerable.”

The UN Secretary-General Antonio

Guterres has stressed that the effective ban would have “devastating consequences” while UNICEF chief Catherine Russell declared that “this decision is dangerous; the lives and futures of Palestinian children are at stake,” while James Elder, a UNICEF staffer in the region, denounced the decision, saying “a new way has been found to kill children.”

In its statement, CARICOM said the protection of civilians and the respect for human rights in all circumstances is sacrosanct. ”CARICOM calls on Israel to allow the UNRWA to continue to operate within the framework of UN General Assembly mandate 302 (IV) of 18 December 1949 in providing essential humanitarian services to Palestinian refugees in areas controlled

by Israel, notably in Occupied Palestinian Territory, including the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

”Further, CARICOM reiterates its call for a permanent cease-fire and the immediate release of hostages and the provision of humanitarian support for all civilians affected by the military action in Gaza and other affected areas.”

The regional grouping said that it “remains steadfast in support of efforts towards a two-state solution within secure borders”.

Earlier, the Belize government issued a separate statement saying “Israel has ignored the binding orders of the International Court of Justice to stop the killing and allow humanitarian aid.

“It is no less than a death warrant gratuitously and heartlessly inflicted on hundreds of thousands of children, women, and the elderly by the Israeli state,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade said in the statement. (CMC)

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A decree was recently approved by a transitional council that was established to restore democratic order in Haiti, dismissing interim Prime Minister Garry Conille and installing Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, a businesswoman who had been considered for the position, in his place.

A government source gave a selected group of reporters access to the directive, which is scheduled to be published on November 11, 2024.

It adds even more chaos to Haiti’s already difficult political transition process, which

has been marred by gang violence in the Caribbean country, which has prevented democratic elections for years.

The transitional council was set up in April with the intention of bringing an end to Haiti’s unrest by selecting the country’s new prime minister and cabinet.

However, politics and internal strife have beset the council, and many council members were accused of corruption in October.

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WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

CARIBNEWS

5

US – FBI Probes Racist Political Texts to Black People

Imagine having a nightmare of being in a ruthless scene of Django Unchained.

Wouldn’t it be terrifying? Just imagine waking to text that places you in a category that should be ready on schedule to pick cotton!

Black individuals in various US states are receiving racist text messages that invoke slavery, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and other authorities.

Reporters said that anonymous letters telling black women, men, and kids, including middle school students, to appear at a certain place at a specific time “with your belongings” sparked alarms across the United States.

According to the worldwide news agency, New York, Alabama, California, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee were among the states where the occurrences were recorded.

According to reports, the letters’ tone and emotion were identical, but their phrasing

differed—some told recipients to report to a plantation, and a few referred to the upcoming presidential government.

The Missouri NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) president, Nimrod Chapel, stated that black students at Missouri State University who belong to the organization’s chapter recently received texts announcing Trump’s victory and identifying them by name as being “selected to pick cotton”.

According to Chapel, police have been alerted in Springfield, Missouri, which is home to the institution.

Chapel remarked, “It points to a well-organized and resourced group that has decided to target Americans on our home soil based on the color of our skin.”

In addition, the organization denounced the occurrence as “deeply disturbing.”

NAACP President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Derrick Johnson, stated, “The threat — and the mention of slavery in

2024 — is not only deeply disturbing, but perpetuates a legacy of evil that dates back to before the Jim Crow era, and now seeks to prevent Black Americans from enjoying the same freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.”

He added, “These actions are not normal.

And we refuse to let them be normalized.”

Regarding communications, the FBI communicated with the US Justice Department, and the Federal Communications Commission stated that it was looking into the texts “alongside federal and state law enforcement.” Also, the office of the Ohio Attorney General stated that it was investigating the situation.

Racist Political Texts Sent to Students Condemned by AG James

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New York Attorney General Letitia James today released the following statement in response to reports of racist text messages targeting Black and Brown people – including students – in New York and nationwide: “The racist text messages targeting New Yorkers, including middle school, high school, and college students, are disgusting and unacceptable. I unequivocally condemn any attempt to intimidate or threaten New Yorkers and their families. I encourage anyone in New York who has

received an anonymous, threatening text message to report it to my office.”

In recent days, there have been reports of New Yorkers and people across the country receiving messages from unknown, anonymous senders claiming that they have been “selected to pick cotton at [their] nearest plantation,” or “chosen to be a slave.” These texts appear to be targeting Black and Brown individuals, including students, and may include personal information about the recipient such as their name or location.

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CARIBNEWS

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

NY – Jamaican Pastor, Head of Godsquad, Charged with Sex Charges New York police are holding Brooklynbased pastor Reverend Edward-Richard Hinds, who was born in Jamaica, on allegations of sex crime.

The charges, which were made public in the Brooklyn Supreme Court on November 6, 2024, accuse Hinds of third-degree rape and having sexual relations with a male child who is underage.

The information given indicates that Hinds arrived in the United States in 2010.

The divorced father reportedly hails from the Grants Pen district of St Andrew.

According to law enforcement authorities who spoke to a major media organization, Hinds has been charged with sex abuse for having an improper connection with a youngster.

The indictment was allegedly revealed at the pastor’s appearance yesterday afternoon in Brooklyn Supreme Court. He serves as executive director of the 67th Precinct Clergy Council, also called “The GodSquad.”

According to a special prosecutor from the Staten Island district attorney’s office,

the allegations stemmed from an event that occurred in 2022, when police alleged Hinds engaged in sexual activity with a 16-year-old boy on Christmas Eve. Hinds serves as the youth pastor at the Brooklyn-based Rugby Deliverance Tabernacle on Snydner Avenue.

The GodSquad has contracts with local agencies worth around US$10.5 million, and Hinds has participated in several initiatives started by the government of Mayor Eric Adams.

Florida – Jamaican Woman Elected Mayor of Lauderhill

Denise Grant is a Jamaican American who was elected on November 5, 2024, as the first black woman mayor of Lauderhill, a thriving Florida city known as “Jamaica Hill” due to the fact that many of her countrymen call it home.

In a recent election, two more Jamaicans, Richard Campbell and John T. Hodgson, were chosen to be city commissioners in the municipal government of Lauderhill, which is in Broward County.

After a contentious campaign in which she had to defend accusations of misusing a government car while serving as commissioner in the last days of the campaign, Grant emerged victorious as mayor-elect. She defeated Vice-Mayor Lawrence “Jabbow” Martin.

According to preliminary findings, Grant received 16,117 votes, or 62.55 percent of the total, while Martin received 9,648 votes, or 37.45 percent, according to the Broward County website.

The victories of Hodgson and Campbell both came from four-way battles. Campbell won the fourth commissioner position with 13,020 votes, or 52.13 percent, defeating his closest opponent, Mae Smith, who received 8,046 votes, or 33.66 percent.

With 8,335 votes or 33.75 percent of the total, Hodgson defeated three other candidates for the first commissioner position. Tracey Roach received 7,953 votes, or 32.20 percent.

Following her win, Grant stated that her key goals were small business support, youth and elder programs, and public safety.

Grant explained, “I will also seek to undertake an independent audit of the city’s affairs to understand where things stand and especially to make an informed determination on the way forward where taxes and other critical issues are concerned.”

She has made it apparent that she wants to reduce taxes. She went on to say that she “plans to be laser-focused on the public safety issue, along with providing a business-friendly atmosphere to lure business to the area,” as Lauderhill is regarded as one of those communities with a high crime rate.

In June 2024 Grant stated her goal of taking mayor office in an interview noting, “I decided to seek the office of mayor as I believe I will have more leverage, more capital, and more resources than a commissioner.” She continued, “These are important to improve conditions and move the city of Lauderhill forward.”

The Christiana, Manchester native seemed to suggest that her plans for the city could be furthered by having two of her countrymen serve as commissioners.

Grant is no stranger to controversy; according to published sources, she also escaped a 2023 Florida Department of Law Enforcement inquiry concerning the public official code of ethics and a complaint about her actions toward a commission staffer.

Her supporters pointed out that following in-depth investigations that often took more than a year, she had been exonerated of all the accusations made against her.

Meanwhile, Hodgson and Campbell appear to share some of Grant’s priorities. Hodgson, a former pupil of William Knibb Memorial High School in Trelawny, stated on his website, “My focus will be on youth development, public safety, business and community development as well as fiscal responsibility.”

In addition to being a former member of the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Hodgson presents the folk show John T. On The Morning Ride on WAVS 1170 AM Radio in South Florida.

“To be an elected official is a feeling of trust, respect, and acceptance. The campaign

was long and challenging with three other candidates, two Americans and a Haitian. My objectives as commissioner are public safety, property taxes, senior residence, youth development, fiscal responsibility, and accountability,” he told a local media house in a recent interview.

“I will be aiming to make Lauderhill the number one city in the United States,” Campbell

a high priority on security and economic growth.

The majority of the more than 73,000 residents of Lauderhill are Jamaicans, who also make up the majority of the black population.

Mark A. Douglas, a native of Clarendon, lost to incumbent Michael J. Ryan in the Sunrise mayoral race, while Marlon Bolton was also re-elected as commissioner of the neighboring city of Tamarac.

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WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

CARIBNEWS

Rep. Yvette Clarke on Her Re-Election to Congress Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement: “Thank you to the good and decent people of New York’s 9th District for entrusting me to another term representing you in Congress. I have devoted my life to public service for the families of Brooklyn, and I consider myself incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to fight for you – addressing the issues closest to your hearts and delivering the futures you deserve.

“This community has been my home since the day I was born. Over my lifetime, we’ve witnessed great change take root.

From the era of Shirley Chisholm to the days of Major R. Owens, we’ve met new neighbors with bold new ideas, and we have confronted and overcome countless hurdles. And, over the years, we have held fast to Brooklyn’s immovable identity.

“It has been a true privilege to serve you, and I look forward to my 10th term as your representative. Together, we will continue to advance our progressive agenda and serve as a bulwark against oppressive actions and regressive ideologies – fulfilling the highest ideals of all those who built this borough into the special and diverse

community it is today.”

Rep. Clarke also responded to racist text messages sent to Black Americans nationwide since the election.

“It has been just over two days since we received the results of the 2024 Presidential Election, and now we have witnessed vile text messages sent en masse to primarily Black youths all across our country.

“I am outraged by this attack. For countless Black Americans to be bombarded with threatening and dehumanizing text messages is not only a grave danger to young people at this vulnerable moment for our nation, but an affront and insult to our common humanity. Within our traditional and new media spaces, in our communities, and even in our government, hate continues to be emboldened to a disturbing degree.

“We must not stand idly by as racism and bigotry become even more pervasive and further normalized in America. I urge a full investigation into the source of these despicable messages and call for the perpetrators of this hateful scheme to be held accountable for their actions.”

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The Caribbean Diaspora Has Lost a Cultural Custodian with the Passing of Dr. Elizabeth Nunez

by Mell P

Dr. Elizabeth Nunez’s passing at 80 leaves an indelible void in literature and education, not only in America but across the Caribbean diaspora, where her work continues to resonate deeply. As a distinguished Trinidadian-American author, educator, and mentor, Dr. Nunez carved a path for Caribbean voices in mainstream American literature since arriving to the United States at 19 years old.

In her prolific literary career, Dr. Nunez became a towering figure whose works drew on the depth of Caribbean folklore, spirituality, and socio-political landscapes, bridging gaps between American readers and the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean. Her writing brought forward complex characters and narratives that invited readers to grapple with the nuanced lives of Caribbean and Caribbean-American communities.

Through her narratives, she continually highlighted themes of colonialism, immigration, and personal resilience—concepts central to Caribbean diasporic literature. In addition to garnering multiple awards, her novels earned her recognition as a Caribbean literary pioneer, one whose voice broke through barriers and provided a platform for future Caribbean authors. Her only memoir, “Not for Everyday Use”, won the 2015 Hurston/Wright Legacy Award for Fiction.

Dr. Nunez was co-founder of the National Black Writers Conference alongside John Oliver Killens, and served as director for fourteen years. She raised funds for the conference

through grants and private donors. In 1994, the New York Times recognized the importance of the conference with a much-deserved article in its Arts section. Dr. Nunez was the executive producer of the NY Emmy-nominated CUNYTV series Black Writers in America, narrated by Ossie Davis, which was aired on PBS stations across the country. She has served on the jury for national and international literary prizes/awards, including the international Dublin IMPAC Literary prize, the National Endowment for the Humanities Award; the Ernest Gaines Literary prize and the Fulbright Award for Creative Writing. She generously gave readings of her work in the US and in the Caribbean.

Dr. Nunez received her PhD in English Literature from New York University. She was a former Distinguished Professor at Hunter College, the City University of New York until 2023. She joined the faculty at the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference in Summer 2021 and 2022.

In 2019, the Brooklyn Caribbean Literary Festival (BCLF) established two prizes in Nunez’s name for Caribbean writers in the US and in the diaspora.

Her latest novel “Now Lila Knows” was published in spring 2022 by her longtime publisher, Akashic Press.

Dr. Nunez’s contribution to education is equally profound. As Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs at Medgar Evers College, the City University of New York, she inspired a generation of writers, especially from

underserved communities, to find and express their voices. Fellow Trinidadian-born Dr. Kevin Adonis Browne, a Caribbean American photographer, writer, and scholar of contemporary rhetorical theory, and former corporate lawyer turned novelist, Lauren Francis-Sharma, are just two examples of the writers of this generation that speak fondly of her as both a mentor and friend.

Her mentorship ushered in a dynamic community of emerging writers who found in her a compassionate yet steadfast advocate for Caribbean narratives. By encouraging students to explore their cultural backgrounds and personal stories, Nunez was instrumental in ensuring that a new wave of Caribbean writers would carry forward her legacy of storytelling grounded in authenticity and rich, layered storytelling.

A cherished friend of the Brooklyn Caribbean Literary Festival (BCLF), Nunez played a significant role in helping shape the young organization into a platform that celebrates and preserves Caribbean storytelling. From its inception, Nunez became a namesake for their annual Short Fiction Story Contest and her commitment to the festival underscored her belief in the importance of community-driven spaces that champion diasporic narratives and support Caribbean voices in New York and beyond. She contributed not only as a guest and mentor but also as a beacon of encouragement for many Caribbean writers who found in BCLF a literary home. Her presence lent

credibility and gravitas to the festival, making it a vital part of New York’s cultural landscape and a nurturing space for Caribbean literature.

Last year, the festival produced and screened “5 Minutes with Elizabeth Nunez”, an original BCLF short film series celebrating a selection of five novels by Elizabeth Nunez as the gemstone in the crown of its fifth anniversary celebrations. In these conversations beautifully shot in the quiet comfort of her home in Long Island, New York, Nunez walked viewers through the creative inputs of five of her most revered novels. Candid and sometimes deeply personal, she engaged in a process of reflection, deep insight into the historical and political cultures of the eras of her writing. In her characteristic anecdotal way, Nunez also offered rare and touching details into her own process of becoming and reckoning - as wife, mother, writer, feminist, immigrant and black woman.

Dr. Elizabeth Nunez’s passing is felt deeply by the Caribbean diaspora, where her work has left an enduring legacy. She was more than a writer; she was a cultural custodian, an educator, and a voice for those often relegated to the margins. Her absence leaves a palpable void, but her impact on literature, education, and the Caribbean diaspora will endure, inspiring new generations to carry forward her mission. As we honor her memory, we recognize the profound gift she has left behind—a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to foster understanding and unity across borders.

New York’s Voting Rights Setback Reflects National Struggle for Equity In a significant ruling, Orange County state court Justice Maria Vazquez-Doles recently struck down New York’s 2022 Voting Rights Act (NYVRA), a progressive state law that aimed to empower minority groups in challenging electoral practices that could dilute their political voices. This law allowed New Yorkers to seek legal redress if electoral systems, such as at-large voting districts, systematically marginalized minority voters.

Yet, citing equal protection concerns under the 14th Amendment, Justice Vazquez-Doles ruled the law unconstitutional, aligning the decision with the Supreme Court’s recent judgment against affirmative action in higher education.

The ruling represents a setback for the nation’s evolving struggle to secure voting rights in a polarized legal and political landscape.

The NYVRA was designed to be the strongest state-level voting rights law in the nation, a response to growing voter restrictions seen in many states. With the lack of federal legislation to protect voting rights, New York took a bold step in enacting a measure that allowed communities of color to challenge practices seen as dilutive to their votes, such as at-large voting districts and racially biased districting. The law sought to provide recourse for voters like those in the Town of Newburgh, where at-large elections allegedly limited Black and Hispanic residents’ ability to elect their preferred candidates.

New York was one of several states, largely Democratic-led, that enacted such protections, especially after legislative stalemates in Washington, D.C., left national voting rights

reform unaddressed. Proponents argued that the law was necessary to counter barriers that could hinder minority voters, reflecting a broad movement to protect electoral participation amid what advocates describe as a troubling trend of voting restrictions elsewhere.

Justice Vazquez-Doles’ ruling centers on the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment, which prohibits the government from creating racial classifications without a compelling state interest. She concluded that New York’s law was flawed because it afforded legal privileges based on race without requiring plaintiffs to demonstrate a history of discrimination, which she argued is necessary to meet the “compelling interest” standard. The judge noted that this omission opened the door for any group—potentially even white voters—to claim their voting power had been diluted, diluting the law’s intended focus on historically disenfranchised groups.

The court’s decision also emphasized that the law lacked objective criteria to assess when a group’s voting power had been sufficiently diminished to warrant intervention. Hypothetically, the judge wrote, the law could allow any racial group to sue for electoral adjustments, irrespective of that group’s history of discrimination. This reasoning reflects similar considerations made by the Supreme Court when it ruled against affirmative action, which used race as a factor in college admissions to help historically marginalized students. Both rulings suggest a tightening judicial stance on racebased remedies that do not adhere strictly to standards of demonstrated past discrimination

or compelling state interest.

For New Yorkers, particularly Black and Hispanic communities, this ruling could restrict their ability to challenge potentially discriminatory voting practices. The law’s nullification hinders efforts to address longstanding imbalances in political representation, especially in areas like Newburgh, where an at-large election system may prevent minority groups from having a meaningful voice in local governance.

By making it harder for voters to prove their rights have been violated, the ruling may dissuade challenges to practices that perpetuate inequities.

The judge’s insistence on evidence of past discrimination raises concerns among advocates who argue that such proof may be elusive, especially where subtler, modern forms of discrimination are at play. Supporters of the NYVRA contend that structural barriers, such as the geographic concentration of polling places and restrictive at-large voting systems, disproportionately impact minority voters’ influence, even if overt discrimination cannot be demonstrated. The judge’s ruling arguably overlooks these realities, focusing instead on an equal treatment doctrine that does not account for the historic and social context of electoral inequities.

The ruling in New York echoes similar legal battles across the country, where voting rights laws face opposition based on equal protection arguments. In Republican-led states, restrictions such as stringent voter ID requirements, reduced early voting, and gerrymandered districts have drawn criticism for suppressing

minority votes. In contrast, Democratic-controlled states like New York have pursued protective measures aimed at enhancing electoral access for marginalized groups. This ruling potentially weakens these protections, setting a precedent that may influence other states and even future federal rulings.

For advocates, the court’s decision underscores the fragile state of voting rights in a polarized era. On one side, lawmakers argue that racial considerations are essential to rectify historical injustices and ensure that electoral systems reflect a diverse citizenry. On the other, opponents argue that laws like the NYVRA create special privileges and dilute the equal standing of all voters, regardless of race. Justice VazquezDoles’ ruling, if upheld, could shift the balance further toward the latter viewpoint, limiting the scope for states to enact robust voting rights protections.

Supporters of the NYVRA are committed to appealing the decision. Attorney David Imamura, representing the six Black and Hispanic voters from Newburgh, expressed confidence that the appellate court would reverse the ruling. State Sen. Zellnor Myrie, one of the law’s sponsors, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the law’s significance as a tool to counter disenfranchisement in marginalized communities. The appeal process will test the legal resilience of state-level voting rights protections and provide further clarity on the constitutionality of measures that seek to empower racial minorities in the political process.

See full Editorial online via www.nycaribnews.

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

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For Black Americans, ‘Sundown’ Approaches as a Fateful Inauguration Looms

by Stacy M. Brown

With more than half of Latino men and white women voting to elect Donald Trump, the repercussions for African Americans were blatantly ignored. While there’s little doubt that white women—sacrificing their rights to choose healthcare—and Latinos—sealing the fate of many of their brethren who will be ostracized, deported, and worse, will reap some of the repercussions of Trump’s return—Black citizens face the brunt of that decision, confronting the potential resurgence of sundown towns, unchecked racist policing, and policies that threaten to let America’s ugliest prejudices flourish once more.

Trump’s proposed and devastating agenda includes dismantling the Department of Justice’s civil rights division and ending federal oversight that has long been essential for marginalized communities. Even more alarming, Trump has pledged to grant police officers complete immunity in cases involving unarmed citizens, signaling a return to a climate where police can act without accountability. For many, this agenda is not only a step backward—it is a revival of an era when Black Americans had to tread carefully in towns across America to avoid violence or worse.

Sundown Towns: A Legacy Closer Than Expected Historically, “sundown towns” were communities where Black Americans were told to leave by sunset or face violent consequences.

Though often associated with the Jim Crow South, these towns spanned the entire country, from coast to coast, leaving their mark in states not far from Washington, D.C. In Levittown,

Pennsylvania, for instance, Black families were explicitly barred from purchasing homes when a town was developed in the 1950s—a policy reflective of racial exclusion in other nearby communities. Similarly, Elkton, Maryland, located less than two hours from D.C., held an unspoken “no-go” rule for Black travelers after dark, a reminder of the racial divide near the nation’s capital.

Further examples dot the region. Vienna, Virginia, although not historically labeled a sundown town, had neighborhoods with restrictive covenants excluding Black residents, and Greenwood, Delaware, similarly held an exclusionary legacy through much of the 20th century. Such towns, both near and far, stand as reminders that racial hostility is not confined to distant history or faraway places.

In Ohio, Parrysville and New Lebanon carry lingering reputations for exclusion, while Martinsville, Indiana, a required pass-through town for students heading to Indiana University, is marked by Confederate flags and reminders of a time when Black residents were warned to stay away. In Kentucky, research indicates that at least 60 towns continue to be identified as sundown towns, with Corbin and Salisbury, North Carolina, retaining incredibly hostile attitudes toward Black residents and travelers.

In Vidor, Texas—another notorious sundown town—Confederate flags and racially exclusive policies create an environment where Black visitors know they are unwelcome.

Driving While Black: An Ongoing Risk The legacy of sundown towns is alive in the experiences of Black Americans today, especially while traveling. The experience of Sheila

Lettsome and her husband in 2019 serves as evidence that “driving while Black” is still a dangerous reality. Driving through a quiet Ohio town, police stopped the couple without reason. Despite having an updated registration, police officers asked where they were going and if they were “lost.” Sensing a silent threat, they quickly took the officer’s “suggested route” out of town. Only later did they learn they’d crossed into a known sundown town—a reminder that, in some places, Black travelers are still unsafe on the road.

Such incidents highlight the dangers Black Americans continue to face in areas with sundown legacies. Trump’s plan to grant police full immunity—especially in cases involving unarmed citizens—amplifies this threat. The proposed protections for police, combined with a dismantling of the DOJ’s civil rights division, effectively tell Black Americans that abuses could go unchecked and unpunished, making “driving while Black” an even greater risk.

Trump’s Campaign Rallies: A Signal to “Sundown America” Trump’s campaign rallies themselves sent alarms across Black communities. Choosing to hold events in towns known for racial exclusion and Ku Klux Klan activity, such as Howell, Michigan, and Cullman, Alabama, many civil rights advocates argue these stops are intentional dog whistles. Cullman, a town where for decades Black visitors were warned to “not let the sun set on their heads,” hosted a Trump rally—a move some called a loud signal to his far-right base.

In Howell, which has a history of KKK activity, videos from the rally showed Black attend-

ees facing verbal and physical harassment, reinforcing the racial tensions that sundown towns once weaponized to intimidate. At the time, Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign described these venues as a “deliberate choice,” intended to rally extremist supporters and rekindle painful reminders of America’s past racial hostilities.

A Future Without Civil Rights Protections The Trump agenda is not limited to rhetoric or rally locations; his proposal to eliminate the DOJ’s civil rights division would strip away vital protections for Black communities. The DOJ has long served as a backstop for holding law enforcement accountable and defending against housing, employment, and voting discrimination. Without it, Black Americans are left without crucial federal support, leaving them exposed to abuses and discrimination that could escalate under Trump’s immunity plan for police.

Granting complete immunity to police who An Ominous Roadmap for Black America...

Continued online at www.nycaribnews.com

Why We Cannot and Will Not Go Backwards on Clean Energy

by Ben Jealous

More jobs. Better jobs. Lower energy prices.

Cleaner water. Cleaner air. Fewer asthma attacks. Fewer heart attacks.

Those are just a few of the benefits working people and communities across this country are reaping from the transition from fossil fuels to a clean energy economy. Sure, it is also about saving the planet – which most of us can agree is a good thing. But the economic and health benefits for millions of American families are very real as well.

Donald Trump and his Project 2025 agenda have threatened to upend the clean energy transition and move us backwards. He has shown us he is more interested in lining the pockets of fossil fuel oligarchs than helping everyday Americans.

But we will not go backwards. That is due in part to market forces that are not going anywhere. And it is due to the resistance that strong leaders and a strong movement for justice will wage in defense of the American people.

In Illinois, more than 130,000 people are now employed in clean energy jobs. In 2023, clean energy jobs grew eight times faster than the rest of the state’s economy and clean vehicles are now the fastest growing sector in the state. California has more than 545,000 people employed in clean energy.

Those two states come to mind not only

because they are both in the top five states for clean energy jobs, but because the governors of both those states are already pledging to resist Trump’s attacks on their progress and the wellbeing of their people. But the governors of every state should be as protective of their constituents. Two other top five states for clean energy jobs are Texas (second only to California with about 262,000) and Florida (with about 172,000). And maybe the far-right governors of those states will stand up against potential efforts to roll back clean energy investments like those found in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). After all, 18 US House Republicans already wrote to Speaker Mike Johnson back in August asking him to leave the IRA’s clean energy tax credits in place because of how they are helping their districts.

It should not be a partisan issue. Nationally, the Department of Energy found clean energy jobs to be growing at more than twice the rate of US employment overall. A lot of these jobs are in deep red states and districts, because that is where a lot of the IRA investments are flowing.

One of the greatest stories of how the clean energy economy is reinvigorating communities and reshoring supply chains – and the jobs they create – comes from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s district, where Trump received 75 percent of the vote in 2020. There, the IRA has allowed the solar panel manufacturer Qcells

to build solar panel plants and the capacity to house entire supply chain for their panels locally. That means thousands of good jobs as well as hope for the US competing with China in the global solar market – 80 percent of which China currently dominates.

In addition to good jobs and the rebirth of American manufacturing, another major real-life benefit of the clean energy transition for American families is improved health outcomes. Ditching fossil fuels saves lives. The Sierra Club has successfully worked to retire more than 380 coal-fired power plants since 2010. As of this past spring, those retirements are estimated to have prevented roughly 900,000 asthma attacks and over 84,000 heart attacks, saved $25 billion in health care costs, and saved more than 54,000 lives.

Make no mistake, Trump has made big promises to the fossil fuel industry. He is a climate denier. And it is not unwarranted to be worried about what his next presidency will mean for the clean energy boom.

But the clean energy transition is already happening and some bumps in the road will not stop it.

Again, that is because of market forces. Clean energy is more resilient and less expensive than fossil fuels – and its costs are falling rapidly. As just one example, between 2010 and 2020, the cost of producing electricity from solar power

decreased by 85 percent.

But it is also because of resistance from – and progress in – the states. Again, see the stands being taken by governors like Gavin Newsom in California and JB Pritzker in Illinois. Illinois passed its groundbreaking Climate and Equitable Jobs a year before we even had the IRA, and right now legislators in that state are moving a bill that would save ratepayers an average of $30 a month on their energy bills by modernizing the state’s power grid.

And it is because of those of us dedicated to combating the climate crisis and protecting communities. We are going to redouble our efforts and grow our movement. And we are going to help people understand what speeding up the clean energy transition means for their pocketbooks and their health.

Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

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WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

T&T - Kamla Persad-Bissessar Feels Bond with Trump

In a rare show of political kinship across borders, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Trinidad and Tobago’s Opposition Leader, has drawn a unique parallel between herself and U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. As both leaders gear up for returns to high office— Trump, after defeating Kamala Harris with an estimated 277-224 electoral votes, and

Persad-Bissessar, looking to secure the prime ministership in her country’s upcoming election—they find themselves united in a common narrative: that of a “returning leader.”

Trump’s victory on November 5 made history as he becomes the second U.S. president to reclaim the office in a non-consecutive term since Grover Cleveland. Persad-Bissessar, reflecting on the significance of his win, shared her view that leaders returning to power often carry valuable experience from past terms. “Returning leaders have not only the insight from their previous leadership but also a renewed sense of purpose for their country’s future,” she said.

She also pointed to Trump’s political resilience as a defining factor in his victory. Describing Trump’s commitment to American values, she praised his ability to overcome “years of personal attacks, political persecution, and even assassination attempts,” adding that his dedication to his vision never faltered. Persad-Bissessar extended her congratulations to Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance, seeing their win

as a mandate for conservative ideals amidst shifting American political values.

Within her United National Congress (UNC) party, this win sparked reflections on how such a shift might impact Trinidad and Tobago. David Lee, UNC’s deputy leader, emphasized how Trump’s focus on crime and the economy resonated with voters—issues that remain deeply relevant to Trinidad and Tobago. He suggested that a Trump administration may influence the nation’s dealings with Venezuela, especially regarding gas and energy projects that cross their shared borders.

One area of concern for Lee was the ongoing Dragon gas and Cocuina-Manakin projects, collaborative initiatives between Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago with major economic potential. Energy Minister Stuart Young, a key player in securing licenses for these projects, may face intensified negotiations with Trump’s renewed policies toward Maduro’s administration. “We might even see Young traveling more frequently to shore up support,” Lee added, alluding to the recent OFAC license, granted by the Biden

administration, allowing the government a 30-year exploration window for Dragon’s valuable gas fields.

As the landscape shifts, the UNC anticipates possible impacts on energy multinationals like BP and Shell, who have committed to investments in fields straddling the Trinidad-Venezuela maritime border. Lee speculated that they may await Trump’s official stance before committing further. The UNC’s Chairman Davendranath Tancoo summed up the party’s view simply, saying, “The American people have spoken,” while deputy leader Dr. Roodal Moonilal jested that Prime Minister Rowley may soon be congratulating the “real McCoy,” recalling Rowley’s previous labeling of St. Lucia’s Allan Chastanet as a “Tropical Trump.”

For Persad-Bissessar, Trump’s victory is a testament to the enduring appeal of returning leaders. With her eyes set on the upcoming election, she, like Trump, appears poised to make a comeback, armed with experience, renewed vision, and a fresh mandate for change.

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CARIBNEWS

Tribute to Norman Scott Norman Alexander Edward Scott was born in Kingston Jamaica and was the first of the four children of his parents the late Cyril and Ivy Scott. He passed away in New York on his birthday October 18, 2024 at the age of eighty six. Norman attended Mico Practising School (elementary school) then at age 11 started High School at Kingston College. Norman’s attendance at Kingston College (KC) was a pivotal point in his life at it spawned a lifelong love and dedication to his beloved alma mater. Like most schoolboys of his era they loved, admired and respected Bishop Percival Gibson the Principal and founder of KC as well his able Assistant Principal Douglas Forrest.

Mr. Crick, a Barbadian teacher of Latin was often teased behind his back because of the shape of his nose but was nevertheless loved by the boys. Another teacher ,Foggy Burroughs though crippled by polio was a respected and inspiring Sportsmaster who was instrumental in helping the athletes to achieve dominance and excellence in sports. As a director and secretary of the Kingston College Old Boys Association New York Chapter

Norman worked tirelessly in activities for the betterment of his beloved alma mater.

In recognition of his dedication and unselfish service to the Kingston College Old Boys Association he received the President’s Award in May 2012. It may surprise many people to know that Norman along with his brother Karl were survivors of the disastrous Kendal train crash of September 1, 1957 when hundreds of people who attended a church excursion lost their lives. Norman lost many teenaged friends in that horrific accident and faced death himself but was spared, as no doubt the Lord had more work for him to do on this earth.

After Norman graduated from Kingston College he joined the Government of Jamaica Civil Service in the Customs Department. Though a young man, he was promoted to Senior Customs Officer and Supervisor of Customs because of excellent job performance. He later emigrated to the United States and lived in New York for more than fifty years. He attended and graduated from Baruch College with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Norman is a retiree of Chase

Manhattan Bank of New York where he was Supervisor in the Department of International Money Transfers. A man of great faith, Norman was an active member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church participating in many church functions such as serving on the Vestry and often reading the lesson at Mass. He was a member of Men on a Mission and was elected President of that Church organization. He

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treasured his ‘Church Family’ at St. Luke’s and his ‘Church Family’ embraced him.

The church was a big part of Norman’s life and there he found solace and peace.

Norman was a generous, unselfish and kindhearted human being and in his quiet way touched the lives of many. His pride and joy were his beloved daughters Thalia and Janine and his granddaughter Athena.

He was extremely proud of their accomplishments.

Norman leaves behind to mourn his passing his children Thalia and Janine his granddaughter Athena, former wife Monica, sisters Fay and Clove, brother Karl, nieces and nephews, a host of other family and friends, the Kingston College fraternity and the St. Lukes Episcopal Church Family. Funeral services will be held on Saturday November 16, 2024 at 10. A.M. as follows: St. Luke’ Episcopal Church 777 E 222 St. Bronx 10467 Interment: Kensico Cemetery 273 Lakeview Avenue Valhalla, New York 10595 May the Lord grant unto Norman eternal rest and may perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace.

Dr. Michelle Malcolm James, President of OID, Passes

Dr. Michelle Malcolm-James was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and grew up in New Forest, Manchester, where she attended New Forest All-Age School. In 1979, she moved to Washington, DC, to join her mother, and shortly after, they moved to the Bronx, New York.

She attended Harry S. Truman High School and received a scholarship to the University of Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 1989. Seeking her true calling, she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of New Rochelle in 1992. Dr. Malcolm-James began her career as a Registered Nurse at North Central Bronx Hospital and worked as a Staff Nurse at Our Lady of Mercy Hospital and Montefiore Medical Center. Driven by a continuous desire for knowledge and a commitment to her patients, she enrolled in the Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Pace University, earning a Master of Science in advanced nursing practice in 1997, and subsequently obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice

degree from Chamberlain University in 2017. Dr. Malcolm-James has developed a strong focus on providing quality, safe healthcare to women and children. Over the years, she has worked in various capacities, including in an OB/GYN private practice with Dr. Claudette Anderson, as well as at St. Joseph’s Medical Center’s Comprehensive Care program for women and children affected by HIV/AIDS. She has held roles such as Clinician Coordinator at the Family Centered Asthma and Allergy program at Jacobi Medical Center & North Central Bronx Hospital, Clinical Manager of the Children’s Aid Society School-Based Health Center at Salome Ureña Middle School Academies and Senior Associate Director/Chief Nurse Practitioner in the Adolescent Medicine at New York City Health + Hospitals/Harlem Hospital. Dr. Michelle Malcolm-James is presently employed as the Wellness Clinical Manager/Con Edison at the Orange & Rockland Utilities.

Dr. Malcolm-James was recruited into the Organization for International Development, Inc. (OID) in 1998 by Mrs. Enett Francis. Initially, she anticipated that her involvement would be a one-time summer commitment. However, 26 years later, she has continued to serve the organization in various capacities. Throughout her tenure in OID, she participated in the Fundraising, Membership, and Sponsorship committees & served as Secretary, Executive Board Member & now President. She implemented the women’s cancer screening program to include pap smears and self-breast examination education on the

OID humanitarian missions to Jamaica.

Dr. Malcolm-James is spearheading the OID Mobile Women’s Health Services Mammography Initiative aimed at providing breast and cervical cancer screening for women in Jamaica. This initiative reflects her ongoing commitment to enhancing women’s health services in OUR communities. In recognition of her contributions to women’s & children’s healthcare, Dr. Malcolm-James received the 2009 Orga

nization for International Development Community Service Award, the 2017 Harlem Hospital African American Visionary Award, and the 2018 Bethlehem College Alumni Association (NY) Community Service Award. She expresses gratitude to her family, particularly her mother for her strength and love, to her husband, Andre, and to her daughters, Ashley and Anika, for their unwavering support of her activities within OID.

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CARIBNEWS

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

Elizabeth Nunez, Caribbean Jamaica - Court to Rule on Writer and Educator Passes Prime Minister Objectives Elizabeth Nunez, a well-known novelist from the United States born in Trinidad and Tobago, passed away. Nunez was a distinguished professor of English at Hunter College in New York. She also held a doctorate in literature from New York University.

It is anticipated that her family will release a statement on her passing.

In 1963, Nunez immigrated to the US at the age of 19. Her most well-

known pieces include “When Rocks Dance”, “Prospero’s Daughter”, and “Bruised Hibiscus”. She received several honors for her work. “Now Lila Knows”, her final book, was released in 2022.

Black Writers in America, a television show that was nominated for an Emmy in 2004, had her as an executive producer.

Among other things, Prime Minister Andrew Holness wants the results of the Integrity Commission’s (IC) financial probe to be rejected as “unlawful” and “unfair.”

On December 6, 2024, he will learn whether the Supreme Court will grant his request for a judicial review of the IC’s disclosure of his statutory declarations.

A judicial review gives the court the ability to look at the methods

a public body employs to make decisions.

On Thursday, Justice Althea Jarrett heard arguments from both parties and decided to wait until December 6 to make a decision. The review was one of many administrative directions the king asked the Supreme Court to issue on September 30.

Trump’s Plan for Mass Deportations According to Edison Research, Trump made a surprising political comeback by defeating Democrat Kamala Harris, assuring supporters that America had given him an “unprecedented and powerful mandate.”

According to six former Trump officials and allies, Donald Trump is anticipated to rally agencies throughout the U.S. government to assist him in deporting record

numbers of immigrants, expanding on his first-term initiatives to use all available resources and compel so-called “sanctuary” jurisdictions to cooperate...

Supporters of Trump, some of whom may serve in his second term, expect the Republican president-elect to urge the U.S. military and foreign ambassadors to fulfill his campaign pledge of mass deportations.

Cooperation with Republican-led states

Dr. Julius Garvey Launches New Book

The new book by Dr. Julius Garvey, Justice for Marcus Garvey: Look for Me in the Whirlwind, is a tribute and rallying cry for one of the preeminent Black pride and self-determination champions. In this one-of-a-kind event, Garvey’s son Dr. Julius Garvey, editor of this new book, converses about Garvey’s life and legacy with Diane Richards of the Harlem Writers Guild.

The event will take place Wednesday, November 20 at 6:00 PM Eastern, at the New York Society Library, 53 East 79th Street in Manhattan. A live stream will also be provided. Registration is required.

Details and Registration - https://www. nysoclib.org/events/dr-julius-garvey-justice-marcus-garvey-look-me-whirlwinddiane-richards About Visiting the Library: https://www. nysoclib.org/visit More About the Book Marcus Garvey (1887-1940) was a Black political activist, journalist, entrepreneur, and orator who founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League, which had a following of more than six million African-descended people worldwide.

Despite his massive popularity, this

Jamaican-born international leader was wrongfully sentenced to prison by the U.S. government on trumped-up mail fraud charges.

While exoneration efforts began immediately and have continued since his sentencing, a new groundswell movement for Garvey’s posthumous pardon is underway - led by his nonagenarian, still-spirited son, Julius Garvey.

Edited by Julius Garvey, Justice for Marcus Garvey is a collection of informative essays and personal narratives about senior Garvey’s life and work, demonstrating his essential influence on current social justice movements. The book features contributions from thought leaders and activists, including a foreword by bestselling author Ta-Nehisi Coates. Contributors include Paul Coates, founder/ director of Black Classic Press; Goulda Downer, president of the Caribbean-American Political Action Committee (C-PAC); Justin Hansford, professor at Howard University School of Law; and Maulana Karenga, widely known as the creator of the holiday Kwanzaa.

would be part of the endeavor, and federal funds would be used as pressure against recalcitrant places.

Trump promised a massive immigration crackdown when he retook the White House. His pledge to deport a record number of immigrants—an initiative that Trump’s running mate JD Vance said might remove one million people annually—was the cornerstone of his reelection

campaign.

Trump’s deportation campaign, according to immigrant groups, would be expensive, polarizing, and cruel, causing families to be split up and communities to be destroyed. According to Edison Research exit surveys, 56% of voters said that most illegal immigrants should be allowed to apply for legal status, while 39% of voters believed that they should be deported.

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

CARIBHEALTH

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Movember: A Call to Men’s Health – The Diseases Men Need to Know About This Month

by Mell P

starting at age 45 can catch this cancer early, often before it even starts. The preventive potential of screenings could reduce deaths by up to 60%, making it a life-saving step.

As Movember rolls in this November, we’re reminded that it’s more than just growing mustaches—it’s about confronting the pressing health issues that affect men worldwide. Movember, often symbolized by growing facial hair, shines a critical light on the top health risks facing men today, aiming to encourage awareness, open discussions, and preventive action.

From silent killers like heart disease to the all-too-common challenge of prostate cancer, let’s take a deeper look at the most prevalent diseases affecting men and the real statistics behind these risks. This awareness might be the spark that helps men take proactive steps toward healthier, longer lives.

Heart Disease: The Silent Killer Heart disease is the number one cause of death among men in the United States, and its numbers are staggering. The CDC reports that heart disease is responsible for one in every four male deaths in the U.S., claiming about 370,000 lives each year.

Nearly 12% of men over 20 are living with some form of heart disease, whether they know it or not.

With contributing risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and stress, heart disease creeps up on men silently, often going undetected until a heart attack or other significant event occurs. Common signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, and cold sweats can be subtle, easily mistaken for other issues.

The good news is that heart disease is largely preventable. Cutting down on smoking, maintaining a heart-healthy diet, managing stress, and embracing regular exercise can lower the risk significantly.

It’s not about drastic changes but steady, sustainable habits that add up to make a big difference.

Prostate Cancer: Know Your Risk Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men after skin cancer. The American Cancer Society highlights that about one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, with 288,300 new cases expected this year

alone. Sadly, around 34,700 men are expected to lose their lives to prostate cancer in 2023.

Though it’s highly treatable if detected early, prostate cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms. Advanced stages might bring issues like difficulty urinating, pain in the hips, or even erectile dysfunction, but it’s best not to wait for symptoms.

Men over 50, particularly those with a family history or African American men who are at a higher risk, should prioritize regular screenings.

Screening can be a lifesaver—when caught early, the five-year survival rate is over 98%. Movember is a great time to start a conversation with your doctor and learn more about the options for early detection.

Lung Cancer: A Preventable Tragedy Lung cancer continues to be one of the most aggressive cancers affecting men, particularly those with a history of smoking. In 2023, approximately 117,000 men are expected to be diagnosed with lung cancer, leading to 68,000 deaths. Smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer, and men who smoke are 23 times more likely to develop it than non-smokers.

Though it is deadly, lung cancer is also highly preventable. By quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke, men can significantly lower their risk. For those at high risk, such as long-term smokers, regular screenings can help detect the disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.

Colorectal Cancer: The Need for Screening Often discussed less but equally deadly, colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in men. Each year, over 52,000 men in the U.S. lose their lives to this disease. Both colon and rectal cancers are on the rise, with about 106,970 new cases of colon cancer expected in the U.S. this year.

Age is a significant factor, with men over 50 at higher risk. Other contributors include high-fat diets, sedentary lifestyles, smoking, and family history. Screening is a powerful tool here: regular colonoscopies

Erectile Dysfunction (ED): More Than Physical While not life-threatening, erectile dysfunction is a common condition that affects many men, especially as they age.

Roughly 40% of men over 40 and 70% of men over 70 report issues with ED. But ED isn’t just a standalone problem; it’s often linked to other health conditions, particularly cardiovascular disease.

Causes of ED range from lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and smoking to psychological factors like stress and self-esteem. It can also indicate underlying health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or even early heart disease. Regular checkups, a heart-healthy diet, and exercise can help reduce the likelihood of ED and contribute to a better quality of life.

Diabetes: A Growing Epidemic Type 2 diabetes is surging among men,

impacting their quality of life and increasing their risk of other serious health issues.

Around 11.3% of American men over the age of 18 have diabetes, and many remain undiagnosed. This is worrying, as diabetes doubles the risk of heart disease in men.

Symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue are often dismissed, but early detection and management are crucial. Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and monitoring blood sugar levels, can prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes.

Movember isn’t just about the mustache; it’s about creating conversations and fostering awareness. This November, consider these staggering statistics not as just numbers but as a call to action. Men’s health deserves attention, both from the men themselves and from their loved ones.

From regular check-ups and screenings to small, manageable lifestyle changes, there’s plenty that can be done to improve health outcomes for men everywhere.

Take this month as a reminder: Be proactive, be informed, and, if necessary, be brave enough to ask for help.

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CARIBHEALTH

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

COP29 Climate Summit - ‘Pay Up or Humanity Will Pay The Price’, Guterres Warns UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Tuesday that leaders gathered in Baku for the COP29 Climate Action Summit must take immediate steps to cut emissions, safeguard people from climate chaos, and “tear down the walls to climate finance” in response to the “masterclass in climate destruction” that the world has witnessed in 2024.

“The sound you hear is the ticking clock. We are in the final countdown to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. And time is not on our side,” he warned.

In his opening remarks to the World Leaders Climate Action Summit, the ministerial-level segment of COP29, which officially opened on Tuesday in the Azerbaijan capital of Baku, Mr. Guterres pointed to the proof, noting that 2024 is almost certain to be the hottest year ever recorded.

Meanwhile, “no country is spared” from climate destruction ranging from hurricanes to boiling seas, drought ravaged crops, and more, all being supercharged by human-made climate change.

‘Avoidable injustice’ In the global economy, supply chain shocks raise costs – everywhere: Decimated harvests push up global food prices; destroyed homes increase all insurance premiums.

“This is a story of avoidable injustice: The rich cause the problem, the poor pay the highest price,” stated the UN chief, noting that Oxfam has found that the richest billionaires emit more carbon in an hour and a half than the average person does in a lifetime.

“Unless emissions plummet and adaptation soars,” he emphasized that “every economy will face far greater fury.”

‘Reason to hope’ But there is every reason to hope, the Secretary-General continued, pointing to the solid steps that had been taken last year at COP28 in the United Arab Emirates.

In the UAE, all countries had agreed to move away from fossil fuels; to accelerate net zero energy systems, setting milestones to get there; to boost climate adaptation; and to align the next round of economy-wide national climate

plans – or NDCs – with the 1.5-degree limit set at Paris.

“It’s time to deliver,” he said stressing that a poll by the University of Oxford and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) had found that eighty percent of people around the world want more climate action. In addition, “scientists, activists, and young people are demanding change – they must be heard, not silenced.”

The UN chief went on to note that last year – for the first time – the amount invested in grids and renewables overtook the amount spent on fossil fuels and today, almost everywhere, solar and wind are the cheapest source of new electricity.

“Doubling down on fossil fuels is absurd. The clean energy revolution is here. No group, no business, and no government can stop it. But you can and must ensure it is fair, and fast enough to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius” he explained.

Continued online at www.nycaribnews.com

Continuous Medicaid Enrollment Linked to Lower Risk of Late-Stage Lymphoma Diagnosis Continuous enrollment in Medicaid was associated with a lower rate of a late-stage lymphoma diagnosis in children and adolescents/young adults (AYAs). However, fewer than half of Medicaid-insured patients in these age ranges were continuously enrolled before diagnosis, according to a study published today in Blood Advances.

Lymphoma – which is divided into two types, Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) – is a cancer of the lymphatic system and the third most common cancer among children (ages 0-14 years) and AYAs (ages 15-39 years) in the United States. New treatment options have emerged for the disease, increasing the five-year survival rate, but there is a significant outcomes gap between insured and uninsured children and AYAs with lymphoma.

In an observational study of 3,524 participants with HL or NHL, Xu Ji, PhD, assistant professor in the department of pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine and Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and her colleagues used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) cancer registry and Medicaid enrollment data to determine if there was an association between the timing of Medicaid enrollment and coverage continuity with lymphoma stage at diagnosis in children and AYAs enrolled in Medicaid.

Many people do not enroll in Medicaid, despite being eligible, until something happens, such as a cancer diagnosis. However, it may be too late at that point because they have lost the opportunity to access preventive or primary care for early evaluation of signs and symptoms and timely referral to oncologists for diagnostic testing and therapy initiation.”

Dr. Xu Ji, PhD, assistant professor in the department of pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine and Aflac Cancer & Blood

Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Researchers found that, of 3,524 Medicaid-insured children and AYAs with lymphoma, 37.8% (n = 1,333) were continuously enrolled (12 or more months before diagnosis), 35.2% (n = 1,241) were newly enrolled (month prior to, month of, or less than two months after diagnosis), and 27.0% (n = 950) exhibited other enrollment patterns (enrolled in Medicaid for some time during the 12 months preceding and two months after diagnosis). Non-Hispanic Black patients, Hispanic patients, children ages 14 and under, and patients from neighborhoods with the lowest socioeconomic status were the most likely to be continuously enrolled in Medicaid.

Among the entire sample, 32.2% of patients presented with stage IV lymphoma, the most advanced stage, at diagnosis. The model-adjusted probability of having stage IV lymphoma at diagnosis was 40% for patients newly enrolled in Medicaid, 31% for those with other enrollment patterns, and 26% for those continuously enrolled.

“These results show that continuous Medicaid coverage was strongly linked to a lower likelihood of a late-stage lymphoma diagnosis,” said Dr. Ji. “However, of Medicaid-insured children and AYAs, only three in eight had continuous coverage. AYAs, who had a stronger link between continuous Medicaid coverage and lower likelihood of a late-stage diagnosis, were less likely to be continuously enrolled in Medicaid.”

Best practices - optimize qPCR processes for pathogen detection eBook Discover the best tips and practices to optimize your qPCR processes for pathogen detection.

Download the latest edition A late-stage lymphoma diagnosis is associated with more intensive treatment, disease progression or relapse, and a higher risk of morbidity.

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

CARIBA&E

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Rihanna Contemplating Music Retirement Rihanna may be prepared to abandon her musical career. Following the singer-turned-entrepreneur’s remarks at the recent launch party for her Fenty Skin cosmetics brand in her native Barbados, some admirers have come to that conclusion.

The 36-year-old Rihanna informed the guests, “I would say music was the thing that got the attention. But God had other plans for me and I was able to create in ways … that were very sincere and genuine or organic and authentic to the things that I love.”

Rihanna’s remarks during the Caribbean debut of Fenty Beauty in Barbados: “Music was the thing that got the attention, but God had other plans for me. I cannot express what this day means to me, to be able to celebrate with

people who deserve it the most. Thank you to my country.”

The “Stay” pop singer noted, “So it doesn’t even feel like a job. But when you bring it home, I cannot express to you guys what this day means for me to be able to celebrate with the people that deserve it the most, the community that has always propelled me to the next place and given me the strength and the grace and you guys have always inspired me.”

The 2016 release of Rihanna’s most recent album, Anti, includes singles like “Work” and “Love on the Brain.” In 2018, she first revealed intentions for a reggae-inspired album in a Vogue cover story, claiming that hundreds of tunes were submitted by Jamaican producers.

The record, which fans frequently call R9, is

still pending release.

Since then, Rihanna has focused on her business endeavors, such as Fenty Beauty and Savage X Fenty, and she has given birth to kids, RZA and Riot, with ASAP Rocky.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’s soundtrack featured Rihanna’s last hits, “Lift Me Up” and “Born Again.”

When Complex’s Jordan Rose questioned her about her current creative phase in December, she responded, “I’m in an era of discovery.”

He noted, “Maybe it’s rediscovery because so much is changing, and some things are fleeting.

And some things are yet to be discovered, right? And I’m in the center of all of that.”

Sheryl Lee Ralph Earns $250k Per Episode of Abbott Elementary

Although Sheryl Lee Ralph is a well-known actress, she started her career at Rutgers College. At the age of sixteen, she enrolled in the school to study medicine before realizing that the arts were her actual vocation.

Ralph said, “I’m an immigrant’s child,” according to Elle. “My mother had really high hopes for me. As she put it, “Be a lawyer or a doctor, and if you can’t be either, marry one.”

Ralph would turn to acting in defiance of her

mother’s wishes. While collaborating on a school play, she fell in love with the arts.

According to a Douglass College article, she claimed to have “found my passion on the stage of the Little Theater on the Douglass College campus.”

According to a Philadelphia magazine article, Ralph had her big break at the age of 20, costarring with Sidney Poitier in the 1977 movie “A Piece of the Action.” After making her

television debut on “The Jeffersons” two years later, she went on to star in programs including “Good Times” and “Wonder Woman.”

The publication also revealed that Ralph played one of her most well-known parts in the Broadway version of “Dreamgirls” in 1981 as Deena Jones. She had great expectations that the change would be successful when she first learned about it.

Ralph noted, “I knew something wonderful had

to happen with ‘Dreamgirls.’”

The superstar remarked, “I remember Quincy Jones was invited as an investor. He saw a run-through of our first act, and he walked out.

And I was so broken-hearted, like, ‘How can he not see what a big hit we’re gonna be?”

According to the media, Ralph was able to relocate to Los Angeles because of the popularity of the movie “Dreamgirls.” Her performance earned her a Tony Award nomination as well.

CARIBTRAVEL

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WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

Royalton Saint Lucia: Committed to Sustainable Caribbean Hospitality Santa Monica, CA - Royalton Saint Lucia, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, has proudly received the esteemed Green Globe recertification, reflecting its strong commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism practices.

“The world is increasingly aware of the environmental footprint of business operations. Our resort is committed to environmental stewardship, ensuring that the tourism industry remains sustainable for generations to come,” stated Sabine Adolphy, General Manager of Royalton Saint Lucia and Hideaway at Royalton Saint Lucia for Blue Diamond Resorts. “We fully acknowledge the potential environmental impact of resort operations and have implemented proactive measures to minimize our ecological footprint and operate in an environmentally responsible manner.”

Since achieving the first Green Globe Certification Standard 1.7 in 2020, Royalton Saint Lucia has demonstrated a culture of sustainability, with a focus on continuous improvement. The resort’s commitment to environmental conservation is evident in its efforts to protect local landscapes and marine environments, mitigating climate change impacts.

Key initiatives include enhanced water quality management through the Waste-Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) and proactive measures to safeguard marine biodiversity.

Moreover, Royalton Saint Lucia implements robust waste management strategies, generating water through a Reverse Osmosis plant and optimizing treated water for irrigation. Energy management practices have also been prioritized, with significant investments in energy-efficient lighting solutions.

Every year, the resort participates in global and local initiatives such as Earth Hour, encouraging guests and staff to contribute to climate awareness by turning off lights. Monthly clean-up activities extend to surrounding communities, fostering a sense of responsibility among staff and guests. Additionally, the resort donates retired linens to local hospitals, schools, and community organizations, further supporting its commitment to social responsibility.

Royalton Saint Lucia’s multifaceted approach to sustainability exemplifies its commitment to preserving the Caribbean’s natural beauty while contributing positively to the local community and the environment.

FCCA Hosts Influential Presidential Panel at St. Maarten Cruise Conference to Drive Future of Caribbean Cruising

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) hosted an impactful Presidential Panel at the 30th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference, drawing senior leaders from the world’s leading cruise lines to discuss strategic developments, environmental initiatives, and the importance of collaboration with Caribbean destinations.

Moderated by Alexander Gumbs, CEO of Port St. Maarten, an FCCA Presidential Strategic Partner, the panel included leading industry executives: Michael Bayley, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International; Christopher Ivy, CEO of Margaritaville at Sea; John Padgett, President of Princess Cruises; Richard Sasso, Chairman of MSC Cruises USA; and Harry Sommer, President & CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. The panel focused on expanding sustainable practices within the cruise industry, enriching the guest experience, and strengthening partnerships with local Caribbean communities. Each executive shared their company’s latest initiatives and commitment to positive growth in the region, recognizing the Caribbean as both an essential partner and premier destination.

Michael Bayley highlighted Royal Caribbean’s development of immersive experiences like its “Perfect Day” destinations, which have become key attractions that blend natural beauty with a curated experience. “There’s just so much opportunity in front of us. Royal Caribbean is really aligned with the efforts that we put into a really genuinely outstanding product for the customer,” Bayley stated.

In alignment with FCCA’s focus on sustainable

tourism, Richard Sasso discussed MSC Cruises’ dedication to reducing environmental impact, including initiatives to develop hybrid coral at the Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. He emphasized that sustainability is a “serious investment” and “[educating] the next generations to follow the same passion to help our environment become better” is paramount.

John Padgett of Princess Cruises introduced the company’s innovative Medallion Class technology, designed to enhance passenger convenience and reduce crowding through personalized service – critical for providing seamless travel experiences in popular Caribbean destinations. “The most important thing about the Princess Medallion is it’s not about technology. It’s about the guest,” Padgett remarked.

Christopher Ivy from Margaritaville at Sea shared his brand’s strategy of fostering more extended stays and culturally integrated experiences, showcasing how cruise lines are evolving to support and promote local economies. He shared “we just launched last week a program with our partner resort in Nassau where we take guests directly to that resort. We really lean more heavily on the destination.”

Harry Sommer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings discussed the growing demand for Caribbean sailings, emphasizing the importance of partnerships with Caribbean governments and local businesses to meet the region’s year-round tourism potential. “Thirty-seven million people are scheduled to cruise this year. That’s going to be 50 million in 10 years from now, and the majority of that increase is going to be here in the Caribbean basin. So this hopefully gives you confidence to invest and build,” Sommer noted, encouraging continued investment in facilities to support this anticipated influx.

Panelists agreed on the importance of aligning growth and sustainability. Gumbs closed the session by urging Caribbean leaders to capitalize on these emerging opportunities.

“Collaboration with the destinations and the industry is ever so more important as we move ahead, looking at how best we can collectively

go towards being green,” he asserted.

The FCCA conference offered a unique blend of meetings, workshops, and social events, providing attendees with opportunities to develop relationships, promote products, and

learn from approximately 100 executives from FCCA Member Lines. These executives and their teams determine ship calls, onboard offerings, and how to invest in destinations and infrastructure.

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

CARIBLEGAL

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NY - Court Rules Against Law That Protected Minority Voting Power State legislation that facilitated lawsuits against minority groups in New York due to voting procedures and electoral splits has been overturned by a court that ruled that the law’s unique protections based on race and ethnicity are unconstitutional.

In a ruling on Thursday, Orange County state court Justice Maria Vazquez-Doles invalidated New York’s Voting Rights Act of 2022 and rejected a case against the Town of Newburgh filed by six Black and Hispanic voters.

The inhabitants of the town filed the lawsuit, claiming that “at-large” elections to choose board members in the predominantly white town prevented Black and Hispanic voters from choosing their preferred candidates. The town, which is around 60 miles (96 kilometers) north of New York City, would elect board members per district, according to the method they requested the court impose.

A means to contest at-large elections that resulted in racially divided voting patterns or hindered a racial, ethnic, or linguistic group’s capacity to elect representatives to public office was established under New York’s Voting Rights Act. According to the judge, that section of the statute was in violation of the 14th Amendment’s equal protection guarantee.

When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled last year that college and university affirmative action policies were unconstitutional, it similarly invoked the equal protection provision.

The plaintiffs’ lawyer stated that they will file an appeal.

Attorney David Imamura stated, “We are confident that the New York Voting Rights Act is constitutional, and that on appeal that belief will be vindicated.”

At least four cases were brought under the

state’s voting rights statute, including this one, which was filed in March.

According to the equal protection provision, the government can only intervene based on race if there is a strong state interest in doing so, according to Vazquez-Doles’ ruling.

According to Vazquez-Doles, ending discrimination against a racial group might satisfy that need; nevertheless, the language of the statute in New York did not require voters contesting an election system to provide proof of prior prejudice.

According to her theory, white voters may also be able to fight for changes to the electoral system under the current law if they believe their voting power has been diminished.

Vazquez-Doles noted, “No compelling interest — as that term has been defined by the U.S. Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Equal Protection Clause — exists in protecting the

voting rights of any group that has historically never been discriminated against.”

She also discovered that there were no explicit rules in the New York legislation governing the amount of voting power that must be reduced before a group’s rights are infringed.

More than six states, mostly controlled by Democrats, including New York, took action to protect voting rights after representatives were frustrated with new voting restrictions in some Republican-led states and the failure of voting rights legislation in Congress.

Bill sponsor State Senator Zellnor Myrie stated in a statement, “When New York enacted the strongest voting rights law in the country, we knew there would be challenges.”

He continued, “I disagree with the court’s legal reasoning and expect this decision will be overturned on appeal.”

NYC - Mayor Adams to Discard Voucher Program for Migrants Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, spoke with Eyewitness News about some of the most important problems that the city and its citizens are experiencing.

The mayor discussed the decision to discontinue a contentious program that gave prepaid debit cards to immigrant families lodging in motels financed by the city so

they could purchase their own meals.

Adams spoke with President-elect Donald Trump, he also talked about how the two men may work together to address the

city’s financing, infrastructure, and affordability concerns.

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CARIBSPORTS

WEEK ENDING NOVEMBER 19, 2024

Usain Bolt to Athletes: Stay Away from Drugs Track and field doping has always been a problem, and Jamaican sprint great Usain Bolt says he still gets annoyed when runners take quick cuts and encourages them to practice their skills equitably.

Reports of athletes testing positive for performance-enhancing substances have put the sport of athletics under constant scrutiny. Top athletes and organizations, notably the Russian Federation, have been banned as a result of the problem after being found guilty of state-sponsored doping.

Throughout his remarkable career, Bolt never failed a doping test and has been outspoken against drug usage ruining the sport. He retired in 2017 after winning eight Olympic gold medals and eleven World Championship crowns.

According to Bolt, who recently appeared on the High-Performance podcast, athletes who cheat by using drugs aren’t really dedicated to their work.

Bolt noted, “I can never understand why.

A lot of people don’t want to wait their time. I personally feel that I got a talent,

God gave me a talent and I think if you work on your talent and you’re really dedicated [you can] figure out how [you] can get better. [But] a lot of people didn’t take the time out to figure out ‘what I did wrong or what can I do better to get to the level’ because that’s what I did.”

He added, “I struggled throughout the years to get to where I’m at but I figured it out like, ‘this is what I need to do, this is what is going to get me better’ and I think a lot of times [for] a lot of athletes the work is so hard, because it’s not easy, it’s very intense and full of injuries at times.

And some people just don’t want to put the work in so it’s tough and sometimes the mental area that really drives you to go ‘let me try this’ instead of doing the work.”

Over the previous 15 years, the world’s fastest man, whose sprint world records of 9.58 and 19.19 seconds have remained, has had several ailments. He treated people with scoliosis, a disorder where the spine is unnaturally curved sideways rather than straight.

Bolt claims that in his pursuit of achieve

ment, he never chose the easy road and made no excuses.

Bolt stated, “It was an issue that always bothered me throughout my career but it’s something I managed very well. It was a tough time but I had the right team, dedication, hard work, and sacrifice and everything came together with time.”

“The good thing about it is I found Dr Müller-Wohlfahrt from Germany that really understood how to help me manage.

It wasn’t perfect, we still got injured every

now and then but it helped to manage what was necessary,” he noted.

Bolt added: “The moment you start using something to say, ‘this is why I’m not doing that’, then you’re always going to be behind the eighth ball. I still can compete, I still can be the best and I didn’t put limits on myself, so I kind of pushed through the hard times and understood that if I worked hard and I managed the scoliosis right then I’ll be fine.”

Cricket West Indies - Secures Six-Year Media Deal with ESPN Caribbean local sports fans anytime, anywhere. What better way to accomplish this goal than a long-term partnership with CWI, that represents such a rich sporting history both locally and internationally”.

Under the new agreement, CWI has retained the right to license post-match highlights on free-to-air and digital platforms throughout the region, ensuring fans will have access to additional content throughout each series and tournament.

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — Cricket West Indies (CWI) is delighted to announce the finalization of a new six-year media rights agreement with ESPN Caribbean, ensuring exclusive broadcast and digital coverage of all West Indies Men’s and Women’s home international matches as well as the Men’s and Women’s regional tournament, the CG United Super50 Cup. The agreement, which runs from 2024 to 2030, further solidifies ESPN Caribbean as the home of West Indies cricket across the region.

Under this partnership, ESPN Caribbean will provide extensive live coverage of the West Indies Men’s and Women’s home internationals, as well as the Men’s and Women’s CG United Super50 Cups. Fans across the Caribbean will be able to enjoy their favorite teams and players on ESPN’s platforms such as ESPN, ESPN 2 and Disney+, continuing the long-standing relationship between ESPN Caribbean and CWI.

On the agreement, CWI Acting Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Lynford Inverary said, “This new six-year agreement with ESPN Caribbean marks the largest media rights deal CWI has ever secured in the Caribbean. It not only reflects the growing commercial value of West Indies cricket but also ensures that fans across the region will continue to enjoy comprehensive coverage of our international series and CG United Super50 Cups. ESPN is a longstanding partner, and this new deal will help CWI meet its long-term financial goals, while expanding the visibility and engagement of West Indies cricket within the region.”

Scott McGlone, Sr. Director Programming and Acquisitions, ESPN expressed his excitement: “We are thrilled to continue our strong relationship with CWI with this groundbreaking new deal. ESPN seeks to serve

The new ESPN Caribbean deal, brokered in partnership with CWI’s Media Consultants, Pitch International, is a key milestone in CWI’s broader strategy to enhance the global visibility of West Indies cricket and engage more fans. The partnership aligns with CWI’s ongoing efforts to bring world-class cricket content to Caribbean audiences and deliver the best possible cricket experience to fans.