March 22, 2023

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO DIVINE INTERVENTION NEEDED

Says top cop to deal with the spiraling crime situation

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WON’T BE INTIMIDATED BY TRUMP

Says DA Bragg as possible indictment of the former President looms

FLORIDA

JAMAICAN-AMERICAN ELECTED TO THIRD TERM

As Mayor of Miramar with over 90 percent of the votes

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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

CALYPSO BANNED

Calypsonian Cro Cro’s controversial song was banned by Justice Frank Seepersad unless certain lines are deleted

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INFLUENCE

HAZEL DUKES HONORED

By the UN as the situation with gang violence is getting worse each day

OPED

by Ben Jealous - P 9

OPED

Researchers Find Obamacare Has Significantly Reduced Racial Disparities in Health Care Access by Stacy

HEALTH

- P 15

SPORTS

Walsh Sees High Performance Camp As Perfect Fillip For Emerging Players - P 19

AFRICA WORLD BRIEFS

Young poets lend their talents to promote peace, marking the 75th anniversary of UN peacekeeping

“Across identities and differences… over countries and continents… it is not hard to choose peace.” These lines are from a new poem created to mark the 75th anniversary of UN peacekeeping operations.

Called “Peace begins with me” the poem pays tribute to the strength and resilience of communities affected by conflict as well as those who help them rebuild their lives and livelihoods. It is a reminder of our responsibility to promote peace in our communities, countries and across the world – a conviction that has driven more than two million men and women to serve in over 70 peacekeeping operations since 1948.

“Peace means everything to me” says Pacifique Akilimali, who penned the poem with Nigerian peace activist and poet Maryam Abu Hassan. “The only thing I know since I was born is war… peace has been a dream for a long time now.”

Pacifique, who works in the aviation team at the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), grew up in North Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a region affected by decades of violence between armed groups.

“All the wars and conflicts have gotten us nowhere,” adds Maryam, a native of Nigeria’s northern state of Borno where relentless insurgency and violent extremism has plagued people for more than a decade.

Sudan holds massive political ‘workshops’, embarks on new transition phase, Security Council hears

The parties to a watershed political agreement in Sudan –signed in December 2022 – have launched a fresh round of consultations on key challenges facing the country, the senior UN official in Khartoum told the Security Council on Monday, citing several important breakthroughs that have already emerged from that process.

“Today, we are the closest we have been to a solution, although challenges remain,” said Volker Perthes, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Sudan and head of the UN’s transition assistance mission in the country, known as UNITAMS.

Landmark agreement

Mr. Perthes recalled his last briefing to the Council, on 8 December, when he welcomed the signing of a critical political framework agreement that month.

The landmark agreement followed months of negotiations in the wake of an October 2021 military coup, which derailed the transition to civilian rule that had been underway following the ouster of Sudan’s longtime President, Omar al-Bashir, in April 2019.

In the months since, ongoing dialogue between the signatories has ushered in a new transitional period in Sudan. Inclusive ‘workshops’

A number of contentious issues are currently being discussed in a sensitive consultative process.

Don’t give up on Haiti, plead senior UN aid officials

Following their return from a fact-finding visit to Haiti, a group of senior United Nations officials and representatives of NGOs issued an urgent call on Saturday, for increased access and resources to reach people in desperate need.

The call comes amid reports that the situation in Haiti is deteriorating by the day, with citizens facing spiralling violence, human rights, and food emergencies, as well as a cholera epidemic.

The influence of armed gangs is growing exponentially in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and beyond, reaching the Department of Artibonite, the country’s breadbasket. Armed violence – including kidnappings and sexual violence against women and girls – is also surging.

The six senior officials, representing UN aid agencies and international NGOs, met with people who need humanitarian aid, as well as with local and international partners. They also held talks with Prime Minister Ariel Henry and other senior Government officials, and met with community representatives from areas controlled by, or under the influence of, armed gangs.

Yemen: Fresh negotiations conclude with release of 887 prisoners

The UN Special Envoy for Yemen announced on Monday the planned release of 887 conflict-related detainees from all sides along with other gains after concluding 10 days of negotiations to address the devastating eight-yearold conflict.

“For hundreds of Yemeni families, today is a good day,” Special Envoy Hans Grundberg told reporters at a press conference in Switzerland. “Today, hundreds of Yemeni families can look forward to reuniting with their loved ones.”

The Supervisory Committee on the Implementation of the Detainees’ Exchange Agreement concluded the latest round of talks with several positive outcomes, he said.

“But, it is important to remember that, when the parties committed to the Detainees’ Exchange Agreement, they had made a promise, not just to each other, but to thousands of Yemeni families who have been living with the pain of separation from those dearest to them for far too long,” he said.

Successful negotiation round

The nearly decade-long conflict in Yemen – and the resulting massive, protracted humanitarian emergency –began in 2014 when Houthi insurgent militias first took control of the country’s capital and largest city, Sana’a. After many diplomatic efforts, the parties to the conflict agreed to a truce in April 2022.

M.Brown - P 9

Mexico Among Cities Recognized for Public Health Achievements at Partnership for Healthy Cities Summit

VP Harris Off to Africa

Vice President Kamala Harris is traveling to the homeland. At the end of March, Harris will be flown to Africa by the US as part of an effort to broaden its reach. She will spend a week visiting Ghana, Tanzania, and Zambia.

As the first Black and female vice president, Harris will be widely followed throughout her tour as she advocates for democracy, climate adaptation, women’s economic development, and food security, according to PBS News Hour.

Kamala Harris spokeswoman Kirsten Allen, said this in a statement, “The trip will strengthen the United States’ partnerships throughout Africa and advance our shared efforts on security and economic

prosperity.”

In addition to meeting the leaders of the nations she is visiting, Harris also plans to visit Zambia, where her maternal grandpa formerly worked. Allen added that during her tour, Harris would also communicate with business representatives, entrepreneurs, and people of African descent. At a conference, Harris remarked, “Our administration will be guided not by what we can do for Africa but what we can do with Africa.”

The visit is a reaction to the rivalry between China and the United States on the world stage. According to reports, the Democratic governor wants to establish cooperation with African leaders by guar-

anteeing that they are not thrown into a geopolitical conflict.

A senior administration source claims that the White House is emphasizing an “affirmative agenda” that takes into account worries about China and the fallout from Russia’s conflict in Ukraine.

After Jill Biden, the first lady, and Janet Yellen, the secretary of the Treasury, visited, Harris headed to Africa. While President Joe Biden schedules his trip to the continent for later in the year, Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel there this week.

Harris has scheduled trips to Tanzania (March 29–31), Zambia (March 31–April 1), and Ghana (March 26–29).

NYC – DA Bragg Won’t Be Intimidated by Trump

the Trump Organization, and his fellow former finance chief for an unassociated tax fraud scheme.

Bragg is attempting to comfort his 1,600 employees as that investigation draws to a close in the face of growing animosity from Trump and his followers.

He stated in his message Saturday night that “any specific or credible threats against the office” be looked into and that the office is coordinating with court officials and the New York City police to make sure everyone is secure.

The memo and Trump’s earlier social media posts highlighted the differences in style between Bragg and Trump—two native New Yorkers, but with very distinct identities and from other times, neighborhoods, and histories.

But soon after entering office, Republicans and some moderate Democrats began to disparage Bragg as being soft on crime because of a “Day One” letter he delivered to employees describing his stance on whether or not to press charges in specific cases. It said, among other things, that the DA would no longer pursue certain low-level misdemeanor offenses, such as marijuana possession and avoiding paying for the subway.

Republican former US Representative Lee Zeldin ran for governor last year in part on a pledge to force the independently elected Bragg out of office. Friends were concerned for Bragg’s safety as the hatred towards him got so vile and even racial.

As his office approaches a decision on whether to charge the former president, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is refusing to back down in the face of Donald Trump’s increasingly antagonistic language, warning his workers that the office won’t be intimidated or dissuaded.

After Trump published a three-part, all-caps social media message in which he threatened to be jailed soon, criticized the district attorney and urged his fans to demonstrate and “TAKE OUR NATION BACK,” Bragg wrote an internal letter late on Saturday.

Despite without mentioning Trump by name, Bragg made it plain that he was writing about the Republican, whose office has been summoning witnesses before a grand jury looking into hush money paid on his behalf during his 2016 campaign. The letter was released as law enforcement authorities in New York City made security arrangements for the potential that Trump may be charged and appear in Manhattan court.

When writing about “press attention and public comments” on an ongoing investigation by his office, Bragg said, “We do not tolerate attempts to intimidate our office or threaten the rule of law in New York.”

Online posts about demonstrations started to appear as Bragg attempted to allay worries about potential threats. One such event was a rally against Bragg on Monday that was organized by the New York Young Republican Club. Four law enforcement sources told The Associated Press that New York’s law enforcement

is also keenly watching internet discussion that threatens riots and violence if Trump is detained. The threats that law enforcement officers are monitoring range in detail and veracity, according to the officials. The messages, which have been primarily shared online and in chat rooms, have urged armed protestors to block law enforcement agents and try to prevent any potential arrests, according to the officials. In case Trump is charged, the law enforcement authorities are also talking about a variety of security strategies for lower Manhattan. According to those preparations, which the authorities classified as tentative, it may be necessary to close down a number of streets near the Manhattan criminal courts and block them with big trucks, using the same security procedures used for parades and important events in New York.

The officials talked to the AP under the condition of anonymity because they were unable to publicly disclose specifics of the security arrangements.

When Democrat Bragg became an office in January 2022, the long-running Trump probe was handed over to him. However, holdover prosecutors soon criticized Bragg for abandoning efforts to prosecute the former president for business-related crimes.

Before turning to what he calls the “next chapter” of the investigation, which will focus on the hush money payments, which have been the focus of numerous federal and state investigations over the past six years, Bragg bounced back with convictions for Trump’s company,

Old-school attorney Bragg has refrained from publicly commenting on the hush-money investigation’s status or Trump’s inflammatory tweets. He likes to let his work speak for itself. Additionally, his administration declined to comment.

No timeline for the decision to charge Trump has been made public, and at least one more witness is scheduled to appear, most likely on Monday, further demonstrating that no decision to indict has been made.

Trump attacked Bragg, the city of Manhattan’s first Black district attorney, in a post on Sunday, branding him a “Racist in Reverse” and falsely accusing him of following Justice Department orders and acting as a go-between for Democratic billionaire George Soros, whose Color Of Change PAC funded Bragg’s campaign.

The “perfect storm” of increased crime, political pressure, and internal conflict he was experiencing during the course of the Trump probe was present when Bragg, 49, took office 15 months ago.

Former federal prosecutor, chief deputy state attorney general, and civil rights attorney Bragg received his Harvard education. He also served as chief deputy attorney general and state attorney general.

As a senior officer in the state attorney general’s office, he prosecuted a disgruntled FBI agent and oversaw legal actions against Trump. His life experiences include being detained at gunpoint six times, three of those occasions by police, while growing up in Harlem amid the 1980s crack cocaine pandemic.

In his first year in office, The New York Post had Bragg on its front page 13 times, including five times in his first month, under mocking headings like “Happy 2022, Criminals!” and “’Justice’ Gone Mad.”

When Bragg arrived at the district attorney’s office each morning, a Post photographer began to routinely grill him with questions, which he frequently disregarded. In reality, there were fewer homicides and gunshots in Manhattan in 2022 than there were in 2021, even if certain forms of crime grew.

Disagreements were once again voiced last month in a book written by a former prosecutor, Mark Pomerantz, on how the Trump probe was being handled inside the district attorney’s office.

In 2021, Cyrus R. Vance Jr., Bragg’s predecessor, granted the go-ahead for Pomerantz and Carey Dunne to pursue an indictment on allegations that Trump inflated the value of his assets in financial statements he sent to lenders. Before the issue was resolved, Vance resigned from his position, leaving Bragg to decide whether to press charges.

Bragg chose to delay, claiming doubts about the credibility of the evidence. He recently stated that Pomerantz’s aircraft wasn’t prepared for takeoff.

Pomerantz and Dunne’s resignations as a result of the delay raised the possibility that Bragg had given up on bringing a case against Trump. In a rare instance of public discourse, Bragg disputed that claim in April of last year, writing: “In the long and proud tradition of white-collar prosecutions at the Manhattan DA’s Office, we are investigating thoroughly and following the facts without fear or favor.”

Haiti - UN Urgent Appeal as Situation Deteriorates

vocacy Division of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Tareq Talahma said “we cannot let Haiti become a forgotten crisis.”

“The influence of armed gangs is growing exponentially in Port au Prince and beyond, including the Artibonite department – the country’s breadbasket,” Talahma said.

The statement said that six representatives of UN aid agencies and international NGOs met with people affected by the humanitarian crisis, as well as local and international partners as well as acting Prime Minister Ariel Henry, and other government officials.

The delegation also met with representatives of communities in areas controlled or under the influence of armed gangs.

of a Haitian child today is not comparable to the suffering of a Haitian child a few years ago. As humanitarians, we are finding ways to reach those in need including in gang-controlled areas. For that to happen in a sustainable way, we also need the donor community to not give up on Haiti.”

Despite the difficulties, UN and NGO officials noted that the humanitarian response continues to intensify and pledged to provide more support to aid workers on the ground.

The United Nations and its partners on Sunday issued an urgent appeal for increased humanitarian access and resources for Haiti. The UN stated that the humanitarian situation across the French-speaking Caribbean Community (Caricom) country continues

to “deteriorate day by day due to a spiral of violence, emergencies related to protection, human rights, and food insecurity as well as an epidemic of cholera”.

In a statement, following a two]-day mission, the acting Director of the Operations and Ad-

“We have appreciated the frank, honest, and sometimes uncomfortable discussions with people impacted by the multiple crises in this country, government leaders, UN officials, and national international NGOs,” said Mark Smith, World Vision’s Vice President of Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs.

For her part, the Chief of the Humanitarian Field Support of UNICEF, Sara Bordas Eddy said: “The degradation of the humanitarian needs in Haiti is unprecedented. The suffering

“The population feels desperate, but I also saw the resilience and potential of the women and girls who want to help build a better future for their counties, communities, and families. They need urgent health and psychosocial support, but also livelihood and economic empowerment for recovery,” said Shoko Arakaki, director of the Humanitarian Response division of the UN population.

According to Talahma, this year, the UN and its partners will need US$715 million to help more than three million people.

“This is more than double the sum appealed for last year and the highest amount since the 2010 earthquake – more than just humanitarian assistance, what the people of Haiti need is peace, security, and protection,” he said. (CMC)

Jamaica – 44% Increase in Minimum Wage

Thursday’s announcement by Prime Minister Andrew Holness to raise the national minimum wage by 44% resulted in loud and prolonged desk thumps from government lawmakers as well as exclamations of “Radam!”—a Jamaican slang term for excitement.

According to Holness, who was speaking during the 2023–24 Budget Debate in Parliament, the national minimum wage would increase from $9,000 per 40-hour workday to $13,000 per 40–hour workweek beginning of June 1, 2023. The rise, he continued, is the greatest in 20 years, stirring forth additional yells of appreciation on his side of the room. To further cheers, he said, “Since taking office in 2016, the minimum wage has climbed from $6,200 to $13,000, so this Administration has increased the minimum wage by 11% in seven years.

He also stated that even when expressed in US dollars, the minimum wage increased by 66 percent during that time period, with the overall rate of inflation being less than 50 percent. “This Government has done more than any previous Government to create prosperity for Jamaica and Jamaicans, and we are proud to share the gains with all Jamaicans,” Holness bragged. The success of manufacturers, hotel experts, attorneys, physicians, and teachers in achieving the nation’s productivity and service objectives, he claimed, depends on the participation of minimum wage earners like housewives, artisans, laborers, store clerks, and security employees.

The Administration “is committed and prepared to take decisive action to set minimum wage earners on the right track towards a liveable wage.”

In addition, he said that beginning on June 1, 2023, the weekly minimum salary for industrial security guards will grow from $10,500 to $14,000.

The $1,000 difference between the national minimum pay and the minimum salary for security guards will be eliminated at the following raise, according to Holness.

The prime minister said the Administration was “deeply saddened” by the recent attacks on security guards and how “too many have lost their lives on the front line,” noting that the security sector underpins every other business in Jamaica.

“We have engaged employers in the security industry to improve the conditions of work for our security guards, ensuring that the necessary statutory payments are made so that they will qualify for housing and national insurance pension,” he noted Additionally, Holness informed the legislature that the flat rate for the minimum weekly National Insurance Scheme (NIS) pension will increase by 74% beginning April 1, 2023, rising from $1,700 to $3,000.

“The pensioner who currently receives $2,550 per week will now receive $3,500 per week, a 37 percent increase, and those at the top will receive a 24 percent increase, moving from $3,000 to $4,200 per week,” he added.

Holness reminded the House that an actuarial analysis completed in 2013 had

revealed that the NIS’s sustainability was in jeopardy if prompt action was not taken. “In fact, the projections at that time were that cash flow would be negative by 2025 and the scheme would be bankrupt or run out of money by 2033.” According to him, the Government established a number of reform measures, the last of which was carried out in 2022.

Given the performance of the National Insurance Fund, the Government will increase the old age, widow, widower, and invalidity pensions as well as all other benefits payable under the NIS starting on April 1, 2023.

The minister of labor and social security will make that announcement, he added.

Guyana – US Congressional Delegation Visits

According to a statement from the US Embassy today, Congressman Jason Smith, the chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means, and members of a congressional delegation (CODEL) from both parties are visiting Guyana. It has long been believed that this committee is the most influential in the US House. Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL), Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV), Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (R-TX), Congressman Mike Carey (R-OH), and Congressman Kelly Arm-

strong make up the delegation in addition to Chairman Smith (R-ND). According to the announcement, CODEL will meet with opposition and government leaders during their tour to talk about the value of bipartisan collaboration as well as governance and economic challenges. Additionally, they will interact with wellknown business figures from Guyana and the United States to gain firsthand knowledge of the country’s rapid economic development. The announcement further said that the CODEL tour aims to further investigate the bilateral and economic

relations between the United States and Guyana.

According to the statement, the House Committee on Ways and Means is the oldest committee in the US Congress and the main body responsible for drafting tax legislation in the House of Representatives. According to the US Embassy, the committee has had jurisdiction over revenue-related matters since 1795, including tariffs, trade policies, and the US government’s bonded debt.

Erla Harewood-Christopher, Commissioner of Police (COP), feels that this country is battling an inherent evil and that without supernatural intervention, her anti-crime efforts, including lowering murders, will fail.

Speaking to members of the Chaguanas Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CCIC) at Signature Hall in Longdenville, Chaguanas, yesterday, Harewood-Christopher stated that reducing the murder rate is still “a bit beyond” the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service’s capabilities (TTPS). As a result, she requested assistance from on high.

Harewood-Christopher  noted, “An evil has spread over the land and we must recognize, those of you who are spiritually inclined, you must recognize that this is beyond the physical and unless we seek the intervention of that greater spirit, whatever we may call him, we know we have different religions, so who will call him God, who will call him Allah, or Krishna, all of us, if not all of us, 99 percent of us believe in a superior being and we need to invoke the help of that being if we need to really bring Trinidad and Tobago back to that place where we want it to be.”

She continued, “Because the police can come up with whatever strategy, but unless we enlist the help of God, we will be working in vain.”

The Commissioner of police, who had just recently vowed to make a significant dent in homicides by June of this year, also described to the audience the TTPS’s accomplishments this year and the steps she planned to implement.

“For this year alone, we have already recovered, as of the day before yesterday (Monday), 126 illegal weapons and over about three thousand rounds of ammunition. If you think of ammunition as one round of ammunition can kill someone, how many lives would have been saved or protected?”

According to Harewood- Christopher, there will also be a greater emphasis on international crime, improving police intelligence capabilities, utilizing technology to assist police operations, and boosting police credibility.

“We know we can’t get your support unless you trust us,” the COP added, stressing a zero-tolerance policy for police misconduct and corruption.

“I want the citizens to know and feel secure that they can report, and I know in Central Division for one, a number of officers have been arrested and charged for corruption, so we are not afraid and we will not stop arresting our own if it becomes necessary.”

She also stated to the crowd, most of whom were Chaguanas company owners, that her objective is to “conduct a lot of reflection and to solve our management and supervisory problem.”

The COP remarked, “I want to have officers who are able, I want an organization that is agile, that is responsive to community and national needs, an organization that is efficient, effective and, of course, professional”.

Harewood-Christopher emphasized that police will also work on eliminating criminal gangs.

“Criminal gangs and drugs have been responsible for 65 percent of the drugs and murders in T&T.”

The COP also stated that she is from Central and intends to join the Cunupia Busi-

ness Association in order to secure Central and the rest of T&T. She also urged folks to follow the letter of the law.

Professor Ramesh Deosaran, a criminologist, was present and talked with Guardian Media after the CoP’s presentation. Deosaran praised Harewood-presentation.

Christopher He did, however, have some counsel for her.

“She and the Police Service have to recognize that they need to do their actions down on earth and God will help those who help themselves.”

Florida - Jamaican-American Wins 3rd Term As Mayor of Miramar

In the municipal elections held on Tuesday, Miramar, Florida’s Jamaican American mayor Wayne Messam easily won reelection with 90.6% of the vote versus Rudy Theophin’s 9.4%.

Following the preliminary results at the conclusion of voting on Tuesday, Messam, who was born in the United States to Jamaican immigrants, received 3,215 votes to 333 for novice Theophin. The 13th biggest city in Florida, Miramar has close to 150,000 residents, the majority of whom are Jamaicans. He is the city’s first Black mayor.

Messam, the owner of Messam Construction, made a brief bid for the Democratic Party’s presidential candidacy in the United States (US) in 2020. He gave up when his effort was unsuccessful. Messam, a frequent traveler to Jamaica, said in his bid for a third term as mayor that he had unfinished business to accomplish for the good of the city. He is credited with making the city a successful location for the corporate headquarters of several major businesses, including Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Comcast, and Spirit Airlines.

Hubert Messam, Messam’s father, was a cane cutter in South Florida’s Glades. Mayor Messam, who is now the Florida League of Mayors’ president-elect, is well-known across South Florida. He was elected to his first term as mayor in 2015 and his second in 2019. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from Florida State University, where he also played on the national championship football team that year.

NYC City Council - Easier for Asylum Seekers to Get IDs

discounts across the city. According to city data, an estimated 14,000 children and teenagers seeking refuge have registered in public schools since the summer, as part of a massive influx of migrants that Mayor Adams has declared an emergency.

need access to identification, but specifically for newcomer asylum seekers to be able to apply for social services or just to get inside some of these government buildings.”

A law voted by the City Council on Thursday will improve access to government-issued identity cards that connect students to services.

The law would mandate local high schools to send teenagers and young adults who are undocumented immigrants, homeless, or otherwise in need of Identification cards with applications to IDNYC, a program that allows New Yorkers to navigate city agencies and create bank accounts irrespective of their immigration status.

“Far too often, we know our families and students miss out on incredible resources New York City has to offer because they’re simply unaware,” said the bill’s sponsor Councilwoman Rita Joseph (D-Brooklyn) on Thursday.

The picture IDs, which were introduced in 2015, serve as a library cards and allow individuals to apply for employment and housing, visit municipal offices, and obtain medicines. Cardholders also have access to dozens of museums, zoos, and other

“This policy is particularly important for students from marginalized communities who may not have access to traditional forms of identification,” Joseph remarked, “and who may face barriers to accessing the services they need.”

Together with disseminating applications, school personnel must also provide information on eligibility, the documents necessary to confirm identification and domicile, and perks and discounts.

“We really think that it’s crucial,” said Theodore Moore, vice president of policy and programs at the charitable organization, New York Immigration Coalition, “not only for everyone because young people

This summer, libraries observed an increase in the number of ID applications from asylum seekers anxious to get evidence of identification in order to enroll their children in school. Advocates claim that the law will make the procedure easier and raise awareness.

Naveed Hasan, a parent and Panel for Educational Policy member who has been assisting newcomers at his child’s public school with IDNYC for months, called the law a “no-brainer.”

“This bill should be supported by everyone,” Hasan stated.

During a bill hearing in January, education officials stated that they “support the goals” of the measure.

US Immigration Arrests Caribbean Nationals

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency says officers from its Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) have apprehended Caribbean nationals among 220 removable noncitizens during a nationwide enforcement effort.

On Friday, ICE said that nationals from Cuba and Trinidad and Tobago were arrested in the immigration sweep between March 4 and March 13.

“Officials identified the noncitizens as having been convicted of crimes such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, burglary, unlawful possession or use of a firearm, drug distribution or trafficking, or driving under the influence; or as those who were released from incarceration on parole or placed on community probation under

supervision,” said ICE in a statement.

“Our officers continue to focus on smart, effective immigration enforcement that protects the homeland through the arrest and removal of those who undermine the safety of our communities and integrity of federal immigration law,” said ERO Executive Associate Director Corey A Price.

“Our teams weigh various factors during targeting and apprehension to ensure we are enforcing US immigration laws humanely, effectively, and with the utmost professionalism,” he added.

ICE said those arrested included a 20-yearold citizen of Cuba in Miami, convicted in July 2022 by the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court of Florida in Miami of felony murder in the second-degree/deadly weapon/

aggravated battery attempt.

A 40-year-old citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, who lived in Teaneck, New Jersey, was also arrested.

The Trinidadian was convicted in November 2022 by the US District Court in the Southern District of New York of felony conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, felony narcotics-sell/distribute/dispense, ICE said.

The immigration enforcement agency said it “targets and arrests noncitizens who have committed crimes and other individuals who have violated our nation’s immigration laws.

“ICE officers, informed by their experience and training, use their discretion inherent as law enforcement officials to focus enforcement resources on people who threaten the homeland,” it said, stating that the effort

includes noncitizens with a final order of removal.

“Cases amenable to federal criminal prosecution may be presented to the appropriate US attorney’s office,” it added.

In the fiscal year 2022, ICE said ERO arrested 46,396 noncitizens with criminal histories.

ICE said this group had 198,498 associated charges and convictions, including 21,531 assault offenses; 8,164 sex and sexual assault offenses; 5,554 weapons offenses; 1,501 homicide-related offenses; and 1,114 kidnapping offenses. (CMC)

Project Will Place Micromobility Chargers At Four NYCHA Developments

NEW YORK – Con Edison and the New York City Housing Authority will place chargers and storage for e-bikes and e-scooters at NYCHA developments to see how much riders like the concept.

The chargers and secure storage areas will be at four developments in Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn under the demonstration project that Mayor Eric Adams announced today.

The project will test whether the use of e-bikes and e-scooters would increase if New Yorkers had suitable charging and storage. Increasing the use of these devices would reduce reliance on fossil fuel-powered transportation, meaning cleaner air and safer streets.

The partners also want to determine whether providing safe, secure charging and storage outdoors would reduce indoor charging, which can be dangerous.

It’s also a test of a business model. Con Edison will gather information from the chargers to see how many unique riders use them, how long riders use the chargers and the times of day when riders charge. In

addition, the company will determine the amount of carbon that would have been emitted if the users had driven passenger cars instead of their micromobility devices.

“As electric bikes and scooters grow in popularity, we want to explore ways to ensure that New Yorkers have access to safe, convenient charging and secure storage,” said Raghu Sudhakara, vice president, Distributed Resource Integration, for Con Edison. “Making micromobility safer and easier will be a plus for the many hard-working people who earn their living delivering food to our homes and businesses. Our demonstration project with NYCHA will provide us with information on how we can support these forms of transportation, which provide environmental benefits, convenience and enjoyment when used safely.”

“The safety of NYCHA residents is our chief priority and central to the work we do every day,” said NYCHA Interim CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt. “We are pleased to partner with Con Edison on this pilot program, which will provide NYCHA residents with a safe outdoor charging and storage alternative,

while supporting the growth of this sustainable mode of transportation.”

The first chargers and storage areas will be at these NYCHA developments: Queensbridge North and South in Queens, De Hostos in Manhattan, and Van Dyke I in Brooklyn. The parties hope to begin the demonstration project by the end of this year.

Con Edison has posted a request for information, a step toward finding a vendor to provide and operate the chargers once they are installed. Con Edison and the chosen vendor will visit the NYCHA developments and determine how many chargers to place at each site.

The goal is to provide chargers that will accommodate all e-bikes and e-scooters, regardless of the manufacturer. Along with environmental benefits, micromobility devices contribute to urban quality of life in other ways. They are quiet and reduce traffic congestion.

Electric micromobility devices are an affordable alternative to cars for low-income New Yorkers, many of whom have jobs delivering food or other goods to customers through-

out the city. But food delivery app companies usually do not provide workers with transportation devices.

That has resulted in many workers using their own devices to make deliveries to New Yorkers and charging those devices in their apartments.

Con Edison and the chosen vendor will seek charging locations that are away from residences. The locations will be designated in accordance with Fire Department of New York guidelines for safety.

Con Edison urges anyone using a lithium ion battery to make sure the battery has been certified by UL or another safety testing lab, comply with FDNY safety rules, use only charging cables that the manufacturer recommends, and stop using a battery that is damaged. The FDNY offers these and other safety tips. The National Fire Protection Association also offers safety advice for lithium ion batteries.

Costa Rica – Declares Marcus Garvey Honorary Citizen

The Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica on Tuesday recognized Marcus Garvey, one of Jamaica’s national heroes, as an Honorary Citizen of the Republic.

All 44 of the assembly’s members voted in favor of awarding Garvey the honor, according to a report in the Costa Rican newspaper Semanario Universidad.

Garvey was referred to as “a leader whose fight has left an indelible mark on history” by the New Republic representative Rosalia Brown during the assembly’s deliberations on the honor.

Garvey was given this honor, he said, “in recognition of his tireless efforts in defense of the rights of people of African descent and his contribution to Costa Rican culture,” and he added he felt “great pride” in the decision made.

In conceding that Garvey was born in Jamaica, Brown stated he journeyed around Latin America and the Caribbean, where he worked as a writer and generated articles that exposed the “exploitation of migrant workers on plantations”.

Brown recalled Garvey’s contributions to Costa Rica, including the creation of the Universal Association for the Improvement of the Black Man by the Pan-Africanist.

The Costa Rican lawmaker from Limon also said that Garvey worked for United Fruit Company and criticized “the conditions of exploitation and discrimination of Afrodescendant workers”.

The Jamaican, according to him, was “a world leader of the black movement, his legacy transcends borders, inspiring leaders like Nelson Mandela,” he added.

In 1921, Brown wrote of Garvey’s second trip to the country of Central America, he was, ”

enthusiastically received by thousands of people, he caused a great impact on the workers, especially the Afro-descendant population.”

The lawmaker said that during that trip, Garvey also visited with Julio Acosta, the president at the time, and made suggestions for how to enhance the living circumstances of coastal workers.

Regarding Garvey’s accomplishments, Brown added: “His example of leadership and his fight continue to inspire future generations, a fight that we have not yet reached and we Afrodescendants in this country continue to fight.”

Garvey, who was born on August 17, 1887, at St Ann’s Bay, St Ann, has received various posthumous honors, notably the Order of National

Hero from the then-governing Jamaican government in 1969.

He had a gift for public speaking as a young man, and these skills, together with his charm, served him well when he addressed crowds of thousands of people and inspired them to embrace his cause, Garveyism, as it was called by his adherents.

His trips inspired him to establish two international organizations, the United Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) and the African Communities League (ACL), in Jamaica in 1914 to address the terrible living and working circumstances of blacks.

Garvey passed away from stroke-related complications in June 1940 in London, England.

He was buried there, but in 1964 he was reburied at a shrine at the National Heroes Park in Jamaica. This took place two decades after his first burial.

Women’s History Month Celebrating the Amazing Women in Our Lives

It is time again for us to celebrate the very strong, outstanding, and brave women who have broken down barriers throughout this country and the world who have shattered glass ceilings in an effort to advance family, community, and country. Those who have made such a tremendous contribution to the development of our society in the U.S., in the Caribbean, and around the world. We celebrate those that are first in their fields and are history-makers. We celebrate those who have. day in and day out, provided for their family, strengthening their country, and have been the safeguard for our humanity.

Carib News from its inception has felt the need to salute women in our programs, the very first program we instituted almost 40 years ago was that of recognizing mothers, and have held the theme of `Mothers the Backbone of our Community’ for those years. A meaningful theme that reflects the work of women mothers in shaping a community, and guiding a society, and in providing the sustenance, the glue, that keep us together as we struggle in this world to achieve and to make it a better place for all.

The demand on women from childcare

to juggling work and family to sustaining the integrity of the family, and yes, still making advancement in the business and corporate world is something to celebrate. All month long we have featured women who are making an impact in the local community, who are making an impact in the national world and who are making a difference in the international field. Each week during March we have selected outstanding women in different areas, and it’s been just an amazing revelation as to how important and critical women are to our society.

We have featured women entrepreneurs, women in education, women in health, women of power and influence. Young women, women who have been in the battlefield for a long time, but all inspiring stories of amazing women making their mark in the workforce, in the family, and in society in general.

Today we see that we have more women enrolled in college, more women in medical school and in law school particularly women of color as compared to men of color, there are still gaps to be covered because even today, women still make 82 cents for every dollar a man earns accord-

ing to the US Census Bureau. But even with this gap, even with this handicap, women are showing up and showing off and making a tremendous difference in the world. Yes, we know there are still barriers to be shattered, gender equity to be achieved, and that struggle have to be maintained. The issue of domestic violence, Is one that is plaguing our community, our country, and indeed the world, and that has to be stopped. We have seen the continued advancement of women in all areas, Kamala Harris is Vice President of the United States of America, Ketanji Brown Jackson, first Black woman to be named to the US Supreme Court. We have seen Mia Mottley, Prime Minister Barbados on the world stage, making a difference.

Congressmember Yvette Clarke as Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, we have seen outstanding work from Adrienne Eadie Adams is the Speaker of the New York City Council, and Andrea Stewart-Cousins Head in the New York State Senate. So on all levels local, state, federal and international. We have examples from and in our community of women making a difference, advancing the cause and

leading the way.

Women in so many ways are forging the path not only for other women, but for humanity in so many ways. But it’s not only those that we read about or take notice of that are playing a significant role. Grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and mothers have all played a role in molding opera society; they have all left an indelible mark on us as individuals and in the community through their dedication, their hard work and determination. They are building a better world for current and future generations. Let us use this women’s history month to recognize all women. who are making a difference and many who are making sacrifices. We need to recognize and we need to celebrate these women that are in our lives, day in, day out. We need to acknowledge and appreciate the achievements that they’ve made and the constant grind, pushing all pushing us all to success. Yes, Women’s month is a time to really show appreciation for all women have done and are doing, Let us show the women in our lives appreciation and love.

A Grand Celebration for a Great Lady - Hazel Dukes

Congratulations to Dr. Hazel N. Dukes  on the occasion of the renaming of a street in Roslyn, New York for the great lady of civil rights.  Roslyn, New York is where Dr. Dukes made her initial mark in some of the most dynamic programs that have come to be a part of the Civil Rights Movement in New York and around the country. Dr. Dukes was instrumental in integrating the Roslyn Garden Apartments when she became the complex’s first African American resident.

As Dr. Dukes mentioned,  the celebration was a celebration of coming home and what a celebration it was. Officials from every level of government came to pay tribute to Hazel Dukes - church leaders, community leaders, organizational leaders, youth leaders, and community people who have benefited and have been guided by Dr. Dukes turned out in numbers to overflowing, to witness the historic occasion of the renaming of the street to “Dr. Hazel Dukes Way” . It was just an outpouring of love for a giant, and as Carib News refers to her, as a Titan, one who has excelled in all ways and stands out and stands up to injustice.

The celebration was not only for this special honor; Dr. Dukes also celebrated her 91st birthday, a 91st birthday of energy,  strength,

determination, love, and ongoing commitment.

In one of the most segregated areas in the country, Hazel Dukes was able to batten down, and challenge housing discrimination and open housing for the first time to people of color in the area. She was able to organize the education system to respond to the needs of black children rather than shunning them aside into underperforming classes She was able to marshal the community for the achievement of civil rights and marshal the church and other organizations to assert political power electing Black officials in areas never considered before.

So for Hazel  Dukes, this was a moment in time of reflection and she used the time to identify those who are in various categories of designated leadership that she has poured her heart and soul into their development. And they were there in numbers and they were there as achievers and they were there as pathfinders, trailblazers,  in historical activities throughout the area and around the country.

Dr. Dukes asked them if they have any consideration for her legacy,  if so,   she asked them to get involved and to make personal sacrifices and contributions to keep the effort and her own accomplishments going and growing because that is what is needed to move

on and on. Dr. Dukes has been in the forefront of the Civil Rights movement since the 60s and has been an important and dynamic inspiration to the movement from that period until the present day.

She remains a constant fighter for the rights of our people, and is undeterred by any kind of opposition.

She has worked with President Lyndon Johnson and the formation of the Headstart program that is now legendary throughout the country.

She was the first African-American vice president of the Nassau County Democratic Committee and used that position to empower black people in the suburbs for years. She served in the position of president of the NAACP New York conference since 1992 and has been a dynamic leader and has never stopped working for the political empowerment of our people, civil rights and human rights.

She is known for dynamic leadership in the local and national scene, and her work is witnessed by the growing and dynamic expansion of the NAACP throughout New York. She sits on the National Board of Directors as one of the key contributors to national policies. Dr. Duke’s sights has been across borders and she has also been a strong supporter of the Carib

News Multinational Business Conference.

She talks often about the need and commonality of purpose and the problem that exists with black people of color everywhere, internationally, and the need to work together. Dr. Dukes was not afraid to express reviews to Prime Ministers or Presidents about the need to be stronger and she was always willing to be an advisor on how we can be organized and work together.

Through our association with the Links, they have done several projects in the Caribbean for schools in particular, working to upgrade schools and to help in so many social areas. Dr. Dukes reputation is vastly known nationally, but we have had the opportunity to see her contributing outside of the United States, working to bring people of color together.

We salute and celebrate Dr. Dukes on the honor paid to her by the people of Roslyn, Hempstead and all over Long Island, and of course her adopted location of Harlem, where the admiration and activity is well known. The street sign will be a historical marker for a pioneer and committed individual that brings change wherever she goes and a testimony to what others can do.

A Historic Vote And Tools It Gave Us

by Ben Jealous

protect the climate and build a cleaner, fairer economy.

Vice President Kamala Harris is sure to be remembered every March in Women’s History Month as the first woman and the first person of color to serve our nation in that position. As notable as those two facts are, she may grow to be known just as much for a single vote in the Senate that helped save the planet.

Last August, she broke the 50-50 deadlock between Democrats and Republicans in the Senate to pass the Inflation Reduction Act. That historic package, along with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that Vice President Harris had crisscrossed the country in 2021 to build support for, give us a once-in-a-generation chance to

Both laws bear the vice president’s mark. For example, the two packages provide billions to replace diesel school buses with electric ones and an additional tax credit for purchases that counties and cities make on their own. When serving in the U.S. Senate, Vice President Harris repeatedly sponsored bills to electrify the nation’s school buses. Similarly, she championed proposals to help recovery in low-income communities that bear a disproportionate burden of pollution and climate; the IRA includes $60 billion directed to help those places.

Vice President Harris’ role inside and outside Washington on environmental issues isn’t surprising. When she was elected San Francisco’s district attorney 20 years ago, she started one of the first environmental justice units in a prosecutor’s office. When she moved on to be California’s attorney general, she fought to protect the state from fossil fuel interests, winning tens of millions in civil settlements and a

criminal indictment against the pipeline company responsible for an oil spill off Santa Barbara, as well as suing the federal government to block fracking off the coast.

It’s a path others have been able to follow since then (Columbia University keeps a database of attorneys general’s environmental actions now).

It’s a concern that runs deep. Like I did, Vice President Harris grew up in environmentally conscious Northern California in a household deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement. She learned early that conservation was a good thing, so much so that she has joked she couldn’t understand as a youngster why people she knew said conservatives were bad. The Biden-Harris administration has provided leadership. With Congress, they’ve given us the tools to clean up pollution, to boost communities’ resilience to climate related natural disasters like wildfires, and to create good jobs in clean manufacturing across the country in unprecedented ways. Through the infrastructure and inflation reduction packages, the United States can

spend more than double protecting Earth than we spent putting astronauts on the moon.

“I think we all understand we have to be solutions driven. And the solutions are at hand,” Vice President Harris said at a climate summit earlier this month. “We need to make up for some lost time, no doubt. This is going to have an exponential impact on where we need to go.”

It’s time for the rest of us to pick up those tools and build. There are powerful interests that would be more than happy to let the inertia that allows people and places to be treated as disposable continue indefinitely. Our planet can’t afford that, and we have to marshal a movement to prevent it.

Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club. He is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free,” published in January.

Researchers Find Obamacare Has Significantly Reduced Racial Disparities in Health Care Access

by Stacy M. Brown

Former President Barack Obama’s signature piece of legislation has proved the gift that’s kept on giving for Black and Brown communities in America.

Since its passage in 2010, the Affordable Care Act – better known as Obamacare – has helped cut the U.S. uninsured rate nearly in half while significantly reducing racial and ethnic disparities in both insurance coverage and access to care – particularly in states that expanded their Medicaid programs, according to a new report issued by the Commonwealth Fund, a nonprofit that promotes a high-performing healthcare system. Obamacare has reduced racial and ethnic disparities in both insurance coverage and access to care — particularly in states that expanded their Medicaid programs, the report’s authors noted. While much of that progress occurred between 2013 and 2016, federal data show that more than 5 million people gained coverage between 2020 and early

2022, driving the uninsured rate down to a historic low of 8 percent. Researchers found that insurance coverage rates improved for Black, Hispanic, and white adults between 2013 and 2021. The coverage gap between Black and white adults dropped from 9.9 to 5.3 percentage points, while the gap between Hispanic and white adults dropped from 25.7 to 16.3 points.

Additionally, uninsured rates for adults in all three groups improved during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic, a finding that held true in states that had expanded Medicaid and those that had not.

The report further noted that Black and Hispanic adults experienced larger gains in Medicaid and individual market coverage than white adults between 2019 and 2021.

Between 2013 and 2021, states that expanded Medicaid eligibility had higher rates of insurance coverage and health care access, with smaller disparities between racial/ethnic groups and larger improvements, than states that didn’t expand Medicaid.

For example, the authors found that after Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, its uninsured rate for lower-income adults dropped substantially in comparison to neighboring North Carolina, a non-expansion state, and the disparities between

Black and white adults narrowed. Compared to lower-income white adults, larger percentages of lower income Black adults and lower-income Hispanic adults live in states that haven’t expanded Medicaid, the report revealed.

Researchers said Black and Hispanic adults had higher uninsured rates than white adults in 2013, before Obamacare took full effect.

The disparities reflected lower access to employer-sponsored insurance among people with low incomes, an unregulated and unsubsidized individual insurance market, and lack of Medicaid coverage for adults except for very low income parents in most states.

Obamacare attempted to improve coverage rates in several ways, including by allowing states to expand Medicaid eligibility to everyone below 138 percent of the federal poverty level (in 2023, $20,120 for an individual and $41,400 for a family of four), funded nearly fully by the federal government; and by subsidizing and regulating coverage purchased through the individual market.

According to the report, uninsured rates for adults in each of the three racial/ ethnic groups fell after the coverage expansions went into effect in 2014, and Black and Hispanic residents reported the largest gains.

Uninsured rates for Hispanic adults fell

by 15.7 percentage points between 2013 and 2021.

Also, the Black adult uninsured rate dropped by 10.9 points, and the white uninsured rate declined by 6.3 points. “These gains reduced coverage disparities considerably,” the authors determined. The gap between white and Black adults has dropped from 9.9 percentage points to 5.3 points, and the gap for Hispanic adults has declined from 25.7 to 16.3 points.

While the largest coverage gains occurred from 2013 to 2016, adult uninsured rates for these three groups, and for the nation overall, dropped again between 2019 and 2021, as new federal policies aimed at boosting coverage took effect.

“In fact,,” the researchers wrote, “they reached historic lows, despite modest declines in employer-based coverage from pandemic-related job losses.”

They concluded that Obamacare “has been a powerful force for racial equity in health and health care over the past decade.”

“The expansion in access to affordable coverage has served as the backbone for this progress, helping to remove financial barriers and increase access to primary care clinics and other providers where people can get the care, they need to stay healthy,” the authors wrote.

Women’s Month Women of Power & Influence

SIMA SAMI ISKANDAR BAHOUS Executive Director of UN-Women

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, following consultations with Member States and the Executive Board of the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN-Women), announced on 13 September 2021 the appointment of Sima Sami Bahous of Jordan as Executive Director of UN-Women. She succeeds Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka to whom the Secretary-General is deeply grateful for her commitment and dedicated service in leading UN-Women. The Secretary-General also wishes to extend his appreciation to the United Nations Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, who served as Acting Executive Director until Ms. Bahous assumed this position.

Carla Natalie Barnett is the 8th Secretary General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Dr. Barnett is an economist who has worked across the Caribbean including at the Caribbean Development Bank. She has also provided advisory services to a range of multilateral and bilateral agencies working across CARICOM through the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Canadian International Development Agency (now Global Affairs Canada), United Kingdom Department for International Development (DFID) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). She has received several notable awards.

LORI BILLINGSLEY

Fortune 500 Director

Lori George Billingsley is the former Global Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Officer for The Coca-Cola Company (TCCC). In that role, she led the company’s DEI Center of Excellence, all directed to enable a more engaged global workforce, mirror the markets served, and support a more inclusive culture to best position the employees of the company to drive growth. Lori has over 30 years of public affairs, issues communications, community and stakeholder relations, social impact and diversity, equity and inclusion experience in developing and implementing breakthrough strategic initiatives that meet organizational goals, target audience needs and produce results.

JOYCE

BANDA

Former President of Malawi

Joyce Banda was elected Malawi’s first female president and Africa’s second from 2012 to 2014. Before focusing on politics, Joyce Banda founded and directed various businesses and organizations, including a garment-manufacturing business, a bakery, the NABW of Malawi, the Young Women Leaders Network, the Hunger Project, and the Joyce Banda Foundation, an organization dedicated to rural development and improving the lives of women and children. Before her presidency in 2012, she served as Minister of Gender, Child Welfare, and community services, Foreign Minister, and the first female Vice President of the Republic of Malawi. As Minister of Gender and Child Welfare, she led the enactment of the Prevention of Domestic Violence Bill.

KAREN

BOYKIN-TOWNS

Vice Chair, NAACP National Board of Directors

Karen Boykin-Towns built a reputation as a visionary and driver of strategic results. She brings demonstrated success in the areas of policy, advocacy, communications and proactive change management to NAACP in her role as Vice Chair of the National Board of Directors. She now serves as Founder and President/CEO of Encore Strategies LLC a boutique consultancy focusing on integrating business and public affairs initiatives. A distinguished strategist, global business, and civic leader, Boykin-Towns previously contributed her expertise across government, the nonprofit sector, and Pfizer a Fortune 50 global biopharmaceutical company, while also championing civil rights and social justice issues.

DR. HAZEL DUKES

President of the NAACP New York State Conference

Dr. Hazel N. Dukes is President of the NAACP New York State Conference and a member of the NAACP National Board of Directors, a member of the NAACP Executive Committee and well as an active member of various NAACP board sub-committees. Dr. Dukes is a woman of great strength and courage. Her dedication to human rights and equality is exemplified by her role linking business, government and social causes. Dr. Dukes is an active and dynamic leader who is known for her unselfish and devoted track record for improving the quality of life in New York State.

Dr. Dukes is the recipient of numerous awards for her outstanding leadership activities.

Thasunda Brown Duckett is President and Chief Executive Officer of TIAA, a Fortune 100 provider of secure retirements and outcome-focused investment solutions to millions of people working in higher education, healthcare and other mission-driven organizations. Duckett leads a company whose mission is defined by financial inclusion and opportunity – goals and values she has upheld throughout her career. Duckett serves on the boards of NIKE, Inc., Brex Inc., Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, Sesame Workshop, National Medal of Honor Museum, Economic Club of New York, University of Houston Board of Visitors and Dean’s Advisory Board for the Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business. She is a member of the Executive Leadership Council, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and Jack and Jill of America Inc.

Diana M. Fennell (Democrat) is a career public servant and a true champion of the people. First elected to office in 1995 as a Council Member for the Town of Colmar Manor Fennell later went on to become the town’s Mayor and served faithfully in this post from 2000 to 2010. In 2014, backed by the staunch support of the citizens of District 47-A Diana Fennell was proudly elected to serve in the Maryland House of Delegates. In 2018 Fennell was re-elected to this same office in what was widely considered as a ‘landslide victory’ and has represented her District in stellar fashion to this very day. Among her countless accomplishments Delegate Fennell has also applied her trade as Community Advisory Coordinator for the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department.

THASUNDA BROWN DUCKETT President and Chief Executive Officer, TIAA

DR. CARLA BARNETT, PhD CBE Secretary General, CARICOM

DIANA FENNELL Maryland State Delegate 47A

Women’s Month Women of Power & Influence

JAMILA FYNES

NYC President of the Black Women Political Club

Jamila Fynes is a public servant who centers compassion and community in her work. She serves as President of the NYC Black Women’s Political Club and as the Regional Head of Government Affairs for a Global food and beverage chain. She recently covered Government Affairs on the East Coast working to enhance and activate impactful and equitable transportation initiatives with various cities and governments along the East Coast. Prior, she served as Assistant Commissioner for the Mayor of the City of New York, addressing issues throughout the five boroughs through the implementation of sustainable solutions and resources towards issues stemming from socio-economic disparities and through community advocacy.

AMBASSADOR

US Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. to be the Representative of the USA to the UN as well as the Representative of the USA in the Security Council of the UN in 2021. She is a career diplomat who returned to public service after retiring from a 35-year career with the U.S. Foreign Service in 2017. From 2013 to 2017 she served as the Asst. Sec. of State for African Affairs, where she led the bureau focused on the development and management of U.S. policy toward sub-Saharan Africa. Prior to this appointment, she served as Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources (2012-2013).

TSITSI MASIYIWA African Philanthropist/Social Entrepreneur

Tsitsi Masiyiwa is an African philanthropist and social entrepreneur. She is Executive Chair and Co-Founder of Higherlife Foundation, whose primary goal is to invest in human capital development to build thriving individuals, communities and sustainable livelihoods. As a result of her work and experience establishing and growing Higherlife Foundation over the last 20 years, she has become an advisor and thought partner to universities, national leaders, and social entrepreneurs on issues of education, leadership development, and youth empowerment. Her work has garnered global recognition, including Honorary Doctorate degrees from several colleges, as well as the prestigious Champions for Change Award for Leadership from the ICRW.

DR. MISCHA THOMPSON Director of Global Partnerships, Policy, and Innovation at the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe

For nearly two decades, Dr. Thompson has worked with policy-makers on both sides of the Atlantic to develop and execute strategic policies and programs. With a proven track record of creating innovative evidence-based policy solutions, She develops and advances the commission’s policy positions and legislative portfolio and coordinates leadership and development activities for commission personnel. As a specialist in transatlantic and intergroup relations, she has organized recent events on U.S.-EU relations, migration, and BREXIT. Some of her notable efforts include leading capacity-building programs for executive and emerging leaders.

MARÍA FERNANDA ESPINOSA GARCÉS President, UN General Assembly

María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés, has more than 20 years of multilateral experience in international negotiations, peace, security, defence, disarmament, human rights, indigenous peoples, gender equality, sustainable development, environment, biodiversity, climate change and multilateral cooperation. She has served Ecuador as Minister of Foreign Affairs (twice), Minister of National Defence, and Coordinating Minister of Natural and Cultural Heritage. In those capacities she coordinated the Sectorial Council on Foreign Policy and Promotion, which includes the Ministries of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Foreign Trade, and the Environment. She participated in debates on women, peace and security.

Founder, President & CEO of GB Group Global

Dr. Herndon is a published author, accomplished musician and member of numerous public and private entity boards and the recipient of a number of awards. She also established the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) program for advising small and minority-owned businesses on the design and implementation of business and benefits insurance programs. Dr. Herndon stays active in both the business and local communities through associations such as the Smithsonian, Corporate Advisory Board of Office Depot, former American Express board member, National HeadStart Associations, NAFEO, American Association of Community College, Association of Community College Trustee and US Angola Chamber of Commerce.

NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA WTO Director-General

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a global finance expert, an economist and international development professional with over 30 years of experience working in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and North America. She was appointed as African Union Special Envoy to mobilise international financial support for the fight against COVID-19 and WHO Special Envoy for Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator. She is a skilled negotiator and has brokered numerous agreements which have produced win-win outcomes in negotiations. She is regarded as an effective consensus builder and an honest broker enjoying the trust and confidence of governments and other stakeholders. She is a firm believer in the power of trade to lift developing countries out of poverty and assist them to achieve robust economic growth and sustainable development.

H.E. SAHLE-WORK ZEWDE President of Ethiopia

Sahle-Work Zewde was elected as the fifth President and first woman President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on 25 October 2018. She began her career in the Ministry of Education and later joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1988. She began her long diplomatic carrier as Ambassador to Senegal with accreditation to Mali, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Cape Verde, and the Gambia. She served as Ambassador in Djibouti and as Permanent Representative to the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) for 10 years. She was subsequently appointed as Ambassador of Ethiopia to France, Tunisia and Morocco and Permanent Representative to UNESCO. After her return to Ethiopia she was appointed Permanent Representative to the African Union.

DR. GLORIA BOZEMAN HERNDON

LINDA THOMAS-GREENFIELD

Hazel Dukes Honored With Street Naming in Roslyn, NY

Lawmakers and community leaders gathered on Saturday, March 18 conducted a special street naming ceremony in Nassau County in honor of Hazel Dukes, civil rights pioneer and president of the NAACP’s New York State Conference for her fight for civil rights, education, housing and justiceThe ceremony took place outside the Roslyn Garden Apartments in Roslyn, NY where she made instrumental impact when she became the complex’s first African American resident. Photos by Margot Jordan. See more via website at www.nycaribnews.com

Messages

Congratulations to Dr. Hazel N. Dukes on the street renaming in her honor this past weekend in Roslyn, NY. A Black woman who defied the odds and through her faith, hard work, fearless nature, passion and commitment to equality and justice has lived a life full of purpose. As a result she has positively impacted the lives of countless people across this country. We thank God for Dr Dukes and pray that those of us who love and admire her use her life as an inspiration to continue the fight that she has given her life to improve society for the betterment of others.

Karen Boykin-Towns, Vice Chair, NAACP Board of Directors

The Honorable Dr. Hazel N Dukes a trailblazer par excellence,  a woman who believes in “to whom much is given much is required.  On Saturday, March 18, 2023, the Town of Rosalyn Heights (North Hempstead) NY recognized her for being a true patriot by naming the street where she lived the Dr Hazel Dukes Way.  Whatever challenge came her way more than 70 years ago or today, be it quality education for Black children, fair housing, voting rights or social justice she was there to correct and correct she did and continues to do. Dr. Dukes uses her God given gifts and Human Resources with other liked mindedindividuals; groups to strive for quality, equity and diversity. In sum, my sister friend is a woman whose life stands firmly on a triangle of faith in God, family and community services.

Mary Redd, President & CEO at Steinway Child and Family Services, Inc.

Dr. Hazel N Dukes is our Queen Mother. She has been on the frontlines in the battle for the liberation of our people for a generation. She has personified Micah’s imperative for all of Humanity to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. Dukes teaches us by the sermon that she lives to love God and love God’s people. She is a woman of great compassion for those who have been marginalized

and disenfranchised. She has met their needs with actions not simply pity and prayer. Take heed Beloved! I implore you to take heed, for God has given us an angel who holds the keys to that Blessed City of God!

Love, Reverend Monte Malik Chandler

“Dr. Hazel Dukes is a distinguished trailblazer, a remarkable woman, and a source of inspiration for us all. Her unwavering support was pivotal in my first mayoral campaign, where I had the honor of becoming Long Island’s first African American Mayor. I consider her a genuine and cherished friend.

Dr. Dukes has dedicated her life to championing civil and human rights causes. Her advocacy stretches back decades, and she has been a steadfast supporter of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and numerous other leaders. Her leadership of the New York State NAACP and her resolute support of local organizations in Long Island stand as testament to her remarkable impact.

Today, we pay tribute to Dr. Dukes by renaming a street in her honor. This momentous occasion serves as a reminder of the profound impact she has made as an American, educator, and religious leader.”

James A. Garner, Former Mayor of

Village of Hempstead

The name and legacy of Hazel N. Dukes will live on in the hearts and minds of those from New York’s corporate suites to a Roslyn, NY Village street renamed Dr. Hazel Dukes Way. The street naming ceremony was a beautiful Village tribute to a civil rights heroine who has dedicated her life to equity and justice for the residents of her beloved New York.

Roslyn M. Brock, Chairman Emerita NAACP National Board of Directors

T&T- Cro Cro Controversial Calypso Banned

The words of Weston Rawlins’ 2023 calypso “Another Sat is Outside Again” that are claimed to be disparaging to businessman Ishan Ishmael have been removed from the song.

The phrases were indeed ordered to be erased during an urgent hearing held before Justice Frank Seepersad on Saturday afternoon.

Rawlins, a former calypso king, promoted his act for the Naparima Bowl in San Fernando on Saturday night and Government Plaza in Port of Spain on Sunday.

Despite not performing the 2023 calypso, Seepersad claimed that Rawlins was no “one-hit wonder” and that fans would still enjoy his appearance.

The defendant must be prohibited from performing his calypso “Another Sat is Outside Again” until “the imputed offending portions of same are deleted,” the judge noted. Adding that there would be a larger danger of unfairness if the injunctive remedy were denied.

But he said that it was up to Rawlins whether he wanted to change the song before performing it. “He has a creative license, what he is not permitted to do is to continue with the dissemination of the song in the form which has been brought before the court and to which issue has been taken,” he remarked.

The judge issued a strong warning, stating that any violations of the court order would be dealt with harshly and would last until the trial or until further directed.

He continued, “The court holds the view that there is a serious issue to be tried and it cannot be said, at this stage, that the claimant’s case is doomed to fail or that it is unlikely that he would succeed at the trial.”

Seepersad studied the law throughout the hearing and provided the parties’ counsel with a chance to provide arguments.

In court records, Ishmael’s lawyer Nigel Trancoso, acting on the advice of Richard Jaggasar, asked the judge to issue an injunction prohibiting Rawlins, his employees, or agents from performing, redistributing, publishing, or disseminating the music.

Trancoso demanded that the hearing be interrupted so that the play could end. He predicted that his client’s name will be assassinated at the performance.

Kareem Marcelle, a lawyer representing Rawlins, requested that the case be dismissed and that the court grant the right to free speech on behalf of senior counsel Gilbert Peterson. Additionally, he claimed that the claimant’s counsel had failed to persuade the court that an injunction should be issued.

Guyana – Human Rights Group Opposed Identification Program

GHRA said.

It said the “most prudent course of action would be for Guyana to engage with CARICOM (Caribbean Community) to ensure that this new project harmonizes with and benefits from the Parliamentary experience of CARICOM States such as Barbados, Trinidad, and Jamaica.”

But in a statement, the Ministry of Finance said it had taken note of “certain statements” made by the GHRA on the matter of the recently concluded contract for the development of an integrated electronic national identification card.

The government of Guyana has dismissed a statement by the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) that described as “reckless in the extreme” the signing of an agreement to operationalize e-governance without the framework legislation covering Data Protection in place.

In a statement, the GHRA said that given the haste, absence of public consultation, and threats to the integrity of personal information, not to mention the seeming illegality of sole-sourcing the project, it is calling for the project to be paused and submitted to Parliament.

The GHRA said Guyana is unique in the Caribbean in having no electronic transactions legislation to displace time-consuming and stressful paper-based procedures, such as registering births and deaths, creating a bank account, or registering a company.

It said moving data across borders for processing off-shore is the essence of a multi-national business.

“This does not sit easily with Guyana’s love affair with pieces of paper accompanying every conceivable business transaction. For all of these reasons, Guyana needs to transition to an e-world, but to do so with circumspection,” the

“The statements made by the GHRA have no basis whatsoever and are further undermined by having been made by an entity devoid of any credibility and legitimacy whatsoever.

“Contrary to the false assertion made by the GHRA, the contract in question was awarded in full conformity with the Laws of Guyana, including the procurement laws. Additionally, the company developing the solution for Guyana is a highly regarded supplier of items of this nature internationally,” the ministry said. The government described the GHRA as “a sham organization” headed by an individual “who is incapable and unprepared to display any modicum of independence or objectivity in the public postures he takes.

“The Government of Guyana maintains that the contract with Veridos was lawfully executed, with an internationally reputable group, and is intended to deliver a product that will transform citizen experience in Guyana by introducing the integrated electronic national identification card.

“Once introduced, the card will enable citizens to interact with all government agencies and many private sector entities using this single unique and secure identifier and will vastly improve the efficiency of service delivery to citizens,” the ministry added. CMC

Mexico Among Cities Recognized for Public Health Achievements at Partnership for Healthy Cities Summit

during the inaugural Partnership for Healthy Cities Summit in London, five global cities were recognized for their achievements in preventing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and injuries. The Summit brought together mayors and officials from more than 50 major cities in the partnership to discuss urgent public health concerns and best practices that save lives and create healthier cities.

With the majority of the global population now living in urban settings, ensuring the health and wellbeing of residents in our world’s urban centers is crucial. NCDs – including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases – and injuries are responsible for over 80% of all deaths globally. Cities are uniquely positioned to transform the fight against NCDs and injuries by implementing policies to significantly reduce exposure to risk factors. The Summit highlights best practices and proven interventions, which is especially important as public health is at risk of becoming less of a priority three years after the start of

the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Noncommunicable diseases and injuries pose the number-one threat to global public health. Mayors worldwide are increasingly uniting to confront it, and the Partnership for Healthy Cities will continue to support their urgent and lifesaving work,” said Michael R. Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg Philanthropies, 108th mayor of New York City, and WHO Global Ambassador for Noncommunicable Diseases and Injuries. “Our network’s first-ever Summit showcased the best of local public health leadership, and given the gains achieved by our inaugural award winners, we expect even more leaders will follow in their footsteps as they create healthier, more vibrant cities.”

“The five cities being recognized today demonstrate that mayors can drive powerful progress to protect the health of their citizens,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “WHO remains committed to working through the Partnership for Healthy

World Tuberculosis Day 2023 is March 24

TB

Cities to support mayors around the world to build cities that promote and protect health, rather than harm it.”

Founded in 2017, the Partnership for Healthy Cities is a prestigious global network comprised of 70 cities working together to prevent NCDs and injuries. Mayors in the partnership were invited to join and committed to addressing a pressing public health issue in their city.

Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies in partnership with the WHO and Vital Strategies, this initiative enables cities around the world to deliver a high-impact policy or programmatic intervention to reduce NCDs and injuries in their communities. Through the Partnership for Healthy Cities, local leaders around the world have enacted policies that are improving the health and safety of millions of people.

During the Summit, five member cities were recognized with a 2023 Partnership for Healthy Cities Award for positively impacting the health of their population and making sustainable and lasting strides toward NCD and injury

prevention that can be replicated in other jurisdictions.

The five winning cities, each receiving US$ 150 000 to further their work with the partnership, are:

Athens, Greece for increasing access to the opioid overdose reversal agent, naloxone, at community-based organizations and among healthcare professionals. The city also started researching causes of death among people who inject drugs to better understand the impact of the overdose crisis;

Bengaluru, India for their efforts in tobacco control, specifically, reducing smoking in public places and improving compliance with existing mandates on public smoking bans; Mexico City, Mexico for improving road safety and safe and active mobility by launching a bike path on a busy road that led to a 275% increase in cyclists; implementing a shared lane for cyclists and buses separate from cars; establishing loading and unloading areas; and optimizing design and management of roads

World TB Day 2023, with the theme ‘Yes!

We can end TB!’, aims to inspire hope and encourage high-level leadership, increased investments, faster uptake of new WHO recommendations, adoption of innovations, accelerated action, and multisectoral collaboration to combat the TB epidemic. This year is critical, with opportunities to raise visibility and political commitment at the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB. The spotlight of World TB Day will be on urging countries to ramp up progress in the lead-up to the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB. WHO will also issue a call to action with partners urging Member States to accelerate the rollout of the new WHO-recommended shorter all-oral treatment regimens for drug-resistant TB. World TB Day is observed annually on March 24 to raise awareness about TB and efforts to end the global epidemic, marking the day in 1882 when the bacterium causing TB was discovered.

High-level leadership and action to end

2023: the year to shine a spotlight on ending TB and the suffering it causes to millions, and to call for comprehensive and universal care for those affected. The 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on TB at the General Assembly in September will bring together Heads of State, and provides the opportunity to mobilize political and social commitment to ramp up progress against these ancient diseases. It is our collective responsibility to confront inequalities and put an end to this preventable and curable disease.

Urgent investment of resources, support, care and information are vital to ensure universal access to TB care for research

This is especially critical in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing conflict and socioeconomic crises, that has put End TB progress at risk, and to ensure equitable access to prevention and care in line with WHO’s drive towards achieving Universal Health Coverage. More investments towards supporting the rollout of WHO-recommended TB preventive treatment options, shorter TB treatment regimens, rapid molecular diagnostics and tests for TB infection, and other innovations and digital tools will lead to improvements in health outcomes and save millions of lives. Importantly, investments in research and innovation are vital to fasttrack efforts to reach the end TB targets.

Sheryl Lee Ralph Brings House Down At Book Launch

by Leonard McKenzie

Although she never performed on that stage, The Billie Holiday Theater in Brooklyn welcomed Sheryl Lee Ralph this past Saturday 18 as she spoke candidly to hundreds of her supporters.

Sitting on stage with Emmy award winner Sheryl Lee Ralph was Cheryl Wills of NY1. The singer, actress and activist brought the curtains down on her two outstanding real conversations.

Ralph, who was there to discuss and promote her book “Diva 2.0, 12 Life Lessons From Me For You”, found what she called home sitting at the Billie, center stage, and masterfully converting into characters from Broadway performances to television and big screen actors, while delivering real talk to an audience of predominantly women of all ages. Through her dialogue she kept it real. Ralph took her audience to school, she took them to church, she took them to the streets and then she brought them home to an understanding of who and what she is about. She kept it real, and empowered them for this Women’s History Month and beyond.

Photos by Leonard McKenzie. See more via website at www.nycaribnews.com

Morgan Heritage Announce Album & Release New Single

gan Heritage has shared lead single “Who Deh Like U” feat Bounty Killer, Cham & Stonebwoy. “It’s hard to find anyone to compare to you. Even from a million miles away your value will never diminish because you are so unique…” says Mojo Morgan about the meaning of the track. “It will be hard to find another like you anywhere in the world.”

3x Grammy award-winning reggae group Morgan Heritage –– currently composed of the Trinity: Peetah Morgan, Gramps Morgan, and Mr. Mojo Morgan, all the children of late reggae great and Father of A Nation, the Hon. Ras Denroy Morgan –– announce their new studio album, The Homeland, out April 21. The star-studded 21-track collection –– the group’s first since Denroy Morgan’s passing last year –– marks a new era for Morgan Heritage, as they expand their global reach from the Caribbean to the Continent and beyond with guest contributions from Popcaan, Youssou N’Dour, Shaggy, Beenie Man, Shatta Wale, Mádé Kuti, and more. This album is a project of rebirth for the Morgan brothers, built upon a lineage that has lasted decades and one that will continue to forge forward. Musically, they take the listener on a journey that not only reminds them of days past, but the future ahead.

The Homeland kicks off a busy year for Morgan Heritage, who will also appear at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and tour the globe later this year. See below for confirmed dates with more to be announced soon.

To accompany the album announcement, Mor-

This announcement comes after a successful release of their first single and video “Just A Number,” which you can watch here. The track serves as an awareness anthem, sparking conversation around the topic of cancel culture and the ephemeral nature of fame. The accompanying music video was directed by Samo (Koffee, Chronixx, Protoje), and filmed at Independence Park (National Stadium) in Kingston, Jamaica.

At the end of the month, Morgan Heritage will be at the GRAMMY Museum (at L.A. Live) as guests for The Drop Series on March 28. This is set to kickstart the culturally-iconic band’s global promotional tour, with planned stops in Los Angeles, New York, England, Germany, France, Uganda and Ghana.

Show Dates

March 28, 2023

Los Angeles, CA Grammy Museum: The Drop

May 04, 2023

New Orleans, LA Jazz & Heritage Festival

May 06, 2023

Las Vegas, NV Reggae In The Desert

May 12, 2023

Cayman Islands Lover’s Rock Cayman 2023

May 27, 2023

July 16, 2023

July 29, 2023

Miami, FL Hot105 Hot Live

Martinique

Belize

JetBlue Sets Plan for 200 Daily Flights at Orlando Int’l With Daily Service to DR For Sale

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- JetBlue

(NASDAQ: JBLU) today announced new nonstop service between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and two top Caribbean destinations, as the airline unveils new plans to bring more low-fare, high-quality flights to Central Florida. Launching in November 2023 and out for sale today, JetBlue will fly from Orlando to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Santiago, Dominican Republic (a). After its planned combination with Spirit, JetBlue expects to reach 200 flights a day in Orlando by 2027.

“We are pleased to share our plans to deliver more growth and more jobs in Central Florida, enabled by Florida’s booming economy, our combination with Spirit and as part of the growth commitments we agreed to with Florida Attorney General Moody,” said Robin Hayes, chief executive officer, JetBlue. “This growth will establish JetBlue as Orlando’s national lowfare carrier of choice, ensuring customers don’t have to choose between low fares and a great experience.”

“JetBlue’s new daily service to the Dominican Republic is a welcome addition to Orlando International Airport,” said Kevin Thibault,

CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “As an anchor in our innovative Terminal C, JetBlue continues to provide travelers with options to experience desirable destinations, including Orlando, recognized as one of the most visited cities in the U.S. These expanded routes help Orlando International deliver connectivity and strengthen our position as a major economic generator in the region.”

Central Florida Wins With More Low Fare, High Quality Options

Since Orlando became a JetBlue focus city 15 years ago, customers across Central Florida have embraced JetBlue’s compelling offering of low fares and a much-loved experience, including the most legroom in coach (b), free seatback entertainment, free Fly-Fi high speed internet (c), free snacks, and friendly service. The planned combination of JetBlue and Spirit will unlock long-term growth opportunities that would not be possible otherwise, delivering JetBlue’s low-fare, customer-friendly experience on more routes and increasing options in and out of Central Florida. This includes introducing new nonstop service to a number of destinations that would not

Expanded Delta Service to the Caribbean, Latin America and Mexico

ADDED NONSTOP SERVICE TO COZUMEL

Customers can also travel nonstop to Cozumel, Mexico, with recently added daily nonstop service from Atlanta and three-times-weekly seasonal service from Minneapolis. Atlanta service restarts on Nov. 5 and Minneapolis returns on Dec. 16, with both flights operating on an A320 aircraft.

AN ELEVATED IN-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE

be viable today. In total, JetBlue would offer flights to approximately 20 markets that are not served by either JetBlue or Spirit from Orlando today and would increase flight frequencies on approximately 25 additional routes. With its increased footprint and relevance in Orlando, JetBlue would also introduce its game-changing Mint premium experience, further raising the bar on transcontinental flights. JetBlue estimates its plan would add approximately 350 incremental new airport jobs in the airline’s Orlando operations, while also supporting increased economic activity across the region that is anticipated to lead to further job growth. In addition, JetBlue’s no furlough policy ensures that current Spirit team members who wish to stay with the combined airline will have a role with JetBlue.

As a strong advocate for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s (GOAA) development of Orlando International Airport’s Terminal C, JetBlue became the terminal’s anchor tenant in October 2022. GOAA’s continued investment in the airport provides an elevated experience for JetBlue customers in Terminal C today and paves the way for continued growth in the region in the years to come.

More than 4,000 JetBlue crewmembers are based at the airport and at JetBlue’s Orlando Support Center (OSC), which includes a stateof-the-art training facility featuring classrooms, flight and cabin simulators, a ditch pool and other equipment used both for new crewmember training and for those requiring recurrent training. JetBlue’s Orlando training facility also includes The Lodge at OSC, the airline’s 24/7 dormitory facility dedicated to providing a focused training environment for crewmembers.

Connecting Orlando to Popular Caribbean

Destinations

JetBlue’s new flights connecting Orlando to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Santiago, Dominican Republic will offer customers in Central Florida more choices for leisure travel and furthers JetBlue’s significant presence across Latin America and the Caribbean. JetBlue will also become the only airline to serve Santiago with nonstop service from Orlando. New, year-round service between Orlando and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Santiago, Dominican Republic will take off in November 2023. Seats are out for sale starting today with fares as low as $123 (d).

U.S. customers seeking a warm getaway during the holidays are in luck: Delta is adding seasonal routes from its Atlanta, New YorkJFK, Detroit and Minneapolis hubs to several tropical destinations.

With over 20% more seats vs. the 2022 holiday season, Delta’s holiday 2023 Latin America schedule will be the largest in its history, with expanded service across Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. This growth comes as Delta works toward full restoration of its network after operating at 85% overall capacity in 2022, with a key focus on its U.S. hubs.

New Yorkers can take advantage of more flights bound for the top three Latin American markets from JFK: San Juan (SJU), Santo Domingo (SDQ), and Santiago (STI)*. With these added routes, Delta will operate over 30 peak-day flights to 19 Latin America destinations from JFK.

All flights will be available for sale on March 18 and operate seasonally from Dec. 16 through Jan. 7.

Customers can look forward to fast, free Wi-Fi, along with personal seat-back entertainment screens featuring a wealth of premium content, including curated playlists and podcasts in partnership with Spotify, plus a selection of seasonally-inspired beverages like Tip Top’s espresso martinis. Additionally, starting April 1, kid-friendly meals will return, featuring tasty, well-balanced options for Delta’s youngest travelers, available in First Class on flights over 900 miles and on all cabins on long-haul international flights. Customers will be able to select these meals on flights via special meals at least 24 hours in advance.

HOLIDAY TRAVEL MADE EASIER WITH DELTA VACATIONS

Customers who are ready to book their winter vacation can do so through Delta Vacations, the airline’s official vacation provider. With all-inclusive vacation packages designed especially for SkyMiles® Members, Delta Vacations partners with the most treasured and recognizable beachfront properties and offers hotel options for every budget.

Brooklyn Chamber Entrepreneur Academy for Women of Color

The initial cohort of Brooklyn Entrepreneur Academy will be focused on BIPOC women, with the aim of encouraging equity for entrepreneurs.

BIPOC Brooklyn Entrepreneur Academy applications are now being accepted by the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. The academy aims to advance equity for entrepreneurs of color throughout the borough; its first cohort will concentrate on women of color.

Randy Peers, President, and Chief Executive Officer of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce stated that the BIPOC academy accelerator will assist Black company owners in Brooklyn in getting back on their feet and taking part in both the City’s and Brooklyn’s resurgence. Women of color who operate their own busi-

nesses confront particular challenges including a lack of funding, business education tools, and mentorship programs. According to the Chamber of Commerce, structural injustices made worse by COVID-19 and the pandemic’s economic slowdown have made it more difficult for minority-owned enterprises to reopen. Mentorship will be offered by the Brooklyn Entrepreneur Academy in the form of seasoned business professionals and a network of encouraging peers. There will be a demanding business curriculum for participants. Post-coursework, the BEA will offer business counseling, mentorship, technical help, and additional training to BEA alumni.

Garifuna Heritage Month Celebrated by Bronx Borough President

of Mirtha’s Beauty Salon, Inc. in the Borough of The Bronx, which has been running continuously for the previous twelve years, is legally permitted to do business in New York State, and is owned, operated, and controlled entirely by a Garifuna woman. Even though the coronavirus epidemic caused severe economic

hardship, it managed to endure.

“Lizeth is a Garifuna immigrant who achieved the American Dream by transitioning from a home health care job to become a member of the immigrants who now start more than a quarter of new businesses in this country,” Gibson noted.

“Garifuna American Heritage Month promotes greater knowledge of and respect for the heritage, culture, and contribution of people of Garifuna descent to the development of societies, “ Gibson added.

“Each year since 2008, the Garifuna in New York has been observed from March 11 to April 12 as Garifuna-American Heritage Month, in observance of the 226 Anniversary of the Forcible Transfer of the Garifuna People by the British from their Ancestral Homeland St. Vincent “Yurumein”, (presently known as St. Vincent and the Grenadines) to Central America in 1797,” she noted.

According to Gibson, New York City is home to the biggest Garifuna community outside of Central America, with an estimated 250,000 residents. More than half of this population resides in the Bronx, making it the largest Garifuna community outside of Central America. “Although the Garifuna have been migrating here in search of a better life since the 1930s, the Garifunas/Black Caribs are a culturally differentiated Afro-indigenous/Afro-Latinx people, a mixture between Kalinago and Arawak women, and African men, who were the true reflection of a dynamic symbol of resistance to colonization, brave and courageous people who successfully resisted slavery,” she noted.

Ilbert Julius Sanchez, menswear designer: Ilbert Julius Sanchez is a Garifuna designer of menswear and a co-founder of Garçon Couture, a menswear brand that focuses on developing personalized designs that allow you to connect with your inner gentleman.

The eldest of three children, Sanchez was reared in the South Bronx after being born in Honduras.

He created a streetwear company of T-shirts, sweaters, and caps after graduating and beginning a career as a UX/UI designer.

Mirna Martinez Santiago – Founder of Girls Rule: She is the organization’s founder. a group with the mission of building a pipeline for underrepresented and disadvantaged people into the legal, legislative, and judicial areas, with a concentration on middle and high school girls.

Martinez Santiago is a Garifuna woman with more than 25 years of legal expertise. She has published on both legal and non-legal themes and gives talks on a variety of topics with an emphasis on diversity, inclusiveness, and eliminating bias.

Her mother’s decision to obtain her GED, followed by an associate degree and then a four-year degree that culminated in Mirna’s Doctor of Jurisprudence (JD), a graduate-entry professional degree in law, caused her oldest sister to become the first member of the family to do so. Her family had fled the poverty of Honduras but appeared stuck in the projects.

According to Martinez Santiago, “Education allowed the family social mobility from blue-collar to white-collar, and to move out of public housing, into a private home.” She also stated that her family is, “living proof of the American Dream, the ideal that every citizen of the United States should have an equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and initiative.”

Cosmetologist and company founder Lizeth Arzu-Cacho: She is a trailblazing Garifuna woman entrepreneur and the Founder, CEO, and Cosmetologist of Mirtha’s Beauty Salon, Inc.

On July 10, 2011, she staged the grand opening

Concacaf Announces 2022 Player of the Year Awards Nominees

Miami, FL (Friday, March 17, 2023) – Concacaf has today announced the nominees and the opening of fan voting for the Confederation’s awards program focusing exclusively on two individual player categories: Concacaf Men’s Player of the Year and Concacaf Women’s Player of the Year.

The 2022 nominees have been selected based on performance statistics and the input of technical experts. To be eligible to be shortlisted for these exciting Concacaf awards, all players have met at least one of the following criteria: Have played for a Concacaf Member Association’s senior Men’s or Women’s national team (in eligible Concacaf and FIFA competitions and matches).

Regardless of nationality, played for a club (in 2022) in a Concacaf and FIFA sanctioned top division Men’s or Women’s professional league in the Concacaf region.

Following the nomination process, Concacaf will continue its football first philosophy with

a voting process that ensures players, coaches, media and fans determine the winners. The voting process for each award will work as follows:

Concacaf Men’s Player of the Year (100 votes total)

41 votes: one vote for each Concacaf Member

Association’s Men’s National Team Head Coach

41 votes: one vote for each Concacaf Member

Association’s Men’s National Team Captain

9 votes: one vote each for nine representative members of the media from the Concacaf region

9 votes: fan voting through www.concacaf.com/ concacaf-awards. The player with the most fan votes will receive 4 votes in the overall voting process, second place 3 votes, third place 2 votes (regardless of how many people vote online)

Concacaf Women’s Player of the Year (100 votes total)

41 votes: one vote for each Concacaf Member

Association’s Women’s National Team Head Coach

41 votes: one vote for each Concacaf Member Association’s Women’s Captain

9 votes: one vote each for nine representative members of the media from the Concacaf region

9 votes: fan voting through www.concacaf.com/ concacaf-awards. The player with the most fan votes will receive 4 votes in the overall voting process, second place 3 votes, third place 2 votes (regardless of how many people vote online).

At the conclusion of the voting period, on April 13, 2023, the player in each category with the most votes out of the 100 available will be named 2022 Concacaf Men’s Player of the Year and 2022 Concacaf Women’s Player of the Year. The nominees for the 2022 Concacaf Men’s Player of the Year are (listed in alphabetical order by last name):

Tyler Adams (USA) | Leeds United (ENG) -

transferred from RB Leipzig (GER)

Andre Blake (JAM) | Philadelphia Union (USA)

Jonathan David (CAN) | LOSC Lille (FRA)

Alphonso Davies (CAN) | FC Bayern Munich (GER)

Guillermo Ochoa (MEX) | US Salernitana 1919 (ITA) - transferred from Club America (MEX) Christian Pulisic (USA) | Chelsea FC (ENG)

The nominees for the 2022 Concacaf Women’s Player of the Year are (listed in alphabetical order by last name):

Alicia Cervantes (MEX) | CD Guadalajara (MEX)

Melchie Dumornay (HAI) | Olympique Lyonnais (FRA) - transferred from Stade de Reims (FRA)

Jessie Fleming (CAN) | Chelsea FC (ENG)

Alex Morgan (USA) | San Diego Wave FC (USA)

Khadija Shaw (JAM) | Manchester City FC

Walsh Sees High Performance Camp As Perfect Fillip for Emerging Players

Coolidge Cricket Ground.

“You can see the players are enjoying themselves as they continue to work hard. We’re seeing are lots of smiles, there is camaraderie, and this is a great environment for learning.

This is a step in the right direction and Cricket West Indies (CWI) deserves a lot of credit for the continued investment in Women’s cricket and the commitment towards the growth of these young players who have demonstrated their ability and a readiness to learn and improve,” Walsh said.

“A camp like this is essential and it is a ‘plus-plus’. Firstly, we are seeing the players in action, and we can do a lot of good work with them. The coaches and the support staff are really dedicated, and we are seeing progress. Secondly, we hope that they (players) will be

earn selection for the regional women’s tournaments, which will be coming up soon, and pick up on what they learn here and display it when they play.”

This High Performance camp continues CWI’s increased investment into the women’s game and forms part of the overall High-Performance Pathway. CWI’s strategic plan has committed resources into developing the women’s cricket at every level. The camp plays a vital role in the strategy to develop the talent pool and produce the next generation of West Indies Women’s players. The squad includes several players with international experience as well as members of the West Indies Women’s Rising Stars Under 19s programme. “The investment is coming through. It is

important we have a competitive Senior Women’s team and a keen and cohesive Women’s Rising Stars Under 19 team which will be like a feeder into the senior team. We want to widen the pool of players available,” Walsh said.

“Women’s cricket is growing all around the world and I’m delighted to see that here in the West Indies we are developing a pool of players who can graduate to the international level as well. We are playing a lot more cricket that ever before. This year we already had the Senior and Under 19 T20 World Cups in South Africa and every year going forward there is a major tournament planned, be it 50-overs or T20s. This tells you that Women’s cricket is on the rise and is being recognized and featured on the global sports calendar.”

Courtney Walsh is pleased with what he is seeing at the West Indies Women’s Emerging Players Camp. The former West Indies fast bowling legend is Head Coach of the Senior West Indies Women’s team, and he is part of the coaching team at the ongoing camp at

November 16-19, 2023

Sandals Ochi Beach resort Jamaica

Since the launch of the annual Carib News Multinational Business Conference 27 years ago, the world has experienced life -altering changes. Significant, rapid, and impactful innovations have been seen in technology, politics, global demographics, world syst em integration, climate change and of course public health.

The 28th Annual Carib News Multinational Business Conference theme will be: “Global Innovation, Driving Change” and promises to address the dynamics of this changing world. Re -envisioned for maximum impact for individuals, communities, global businesses, and for emerging generations, this once again in -person event (now considered the Davos of the region) will provide a time for reflection and a time for looking forward.

The 28th Annual Carib Ne ws Multinational Business Conference will bring together legacy leaders from across all sectors and regions of the diaspora and provide a platform for the current, emerging, and brightest minds, who are at the forefront of elevating and executing global ch ange. Presenters will include: Prime Ministers, Presidents, members of the US Congress, members of the UK Parliament, global private sector leaders, civil society and thought leaders, all of whom are impacting meaningful collaboration and leading game -changing efforts in the frontier markets of the United States, Africa, the Caribbean, and indeed the African diaspora.

We are truly excited about what the 28th Annual Carib News Multinational Business Conference will unveil. That is why we invite you to hold the date of November 16 -19, 2023, for our meeting in Jamaica as we come full circle to the site of our very first conference. We cannot wait to see what new and emerging ideas you will bring to the table for discussion and execution. You will not want to miss this gathering and we do not want to miss your valuable contribution. To