March 15, 2023

NYC

BLUEPRINT FOR ASYLUM SEEKERS

Mayor Adams released the way forward - an approach to deal with the crisis of those arriving in the city

Page 4

HAITI

PURSUES NEW SUSPECTS

In the assassination of President Moise - pastor and gang leader identified

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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

OPENS DOORS TO CARICOM WORKERS

Law expanded the number of Caricom workers permitted to enter the country

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NEW YORK HEALTH COVERAGE FOR ALL

Rally in Albany to urge legislators for Health Coverage For All regardless of immigration status

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PATH TO CITIZENSHIP

FOR THOSE PREVIOUSLY EXCLUDED UNDER THE CHILD CITIZENSHIP ACT - SOME FACING DEPORTATIONINTRODUCES BILL IN CONGRESS

Jailed for four years after he was found guilty of trafficking of two women.

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SIZZLA, ANGUS, STOWE GET TOGETHER

In musical collaboration to help schools in St. Ann

GUYANA MAN JAILED FOR TRAFFICKING JAMAICANS JAMAICA Page 18

SEE SCROLL OF OUSTANDING WOMEN IN EDUCATION ON PAGES 10-11

Honored by Ethiopia with one of the highest awards

Wins lawsuit against robo calls targeting Blacks

Rivets audience with speech at Essence Women's Program

Documentary on Jamaican national hero screened by NYU professor

Hon Olivia Grange AG Letitia James Sheryl Lee Ralph Queen Nanny of the Maroons

by Stacy M.Brown - P 9

AFRICA WORLD BRIEFS

UN experts call on South Africa to create torture prevention body

South Africa must swiftly set up a watchdog mechanism to examine prisons, detention centres, and other facilities, UN independent experts on torture prevention said on Monday, citing “entrenched” ill treatment.

The experts offered several recommendations after observing a range of concerns, from poor detention conditions to allegations of corruption, on the heels of the first visit of the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (SPT) to South Africa, from 26 February to 9 March.

“This must change,” said Abdallah Ounnir, head of the subcommittee’s delegation. “There is an urgent need for South Africa to fully establish a national preventive mechanism.”

This would ensure the country’s compliance with its commitment made in 2019 to the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture, he explained.

Such a national preventive mechanism should be a fully independent monitoring body empowered to visit all places of detention, which “is key to prevent torture and ill-treatment in the country”, he said.

‘Inhuman’ practices

During the visit, he said the delegation had noted the overuse of liberty deprivation across sectors, such as prisons, police stations, immigration facilities, mental health facilities, and drug treatment centres.

300,000

flee ongoing violence in DR Congo in February

alone: UNHCR

Humanitarians issued an alert on Friday for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where heavy fighting continues to uproot hundreds of thousands of people in east of the country.

Renewed violent clashes between non-state armed groups and government forces have sparked the latest emergency, with 300,000 people forced to flee their homes in North Kivu Province in February alone.

According to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, another 20,000 fled at the start of the week and nearly 50,000 became displaced from the Kitchanga region in Masisi territory during the week of 17 February.

Survivors

“Civilians continue to pay the heavy and bloody price of conflict, including women and children who barely escaped the violence and are now sleeping out in the open, in spontaneous or organized sites, exhausted and traumatised,” said UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh.

“UNHCR teams on the ground reported horrifying testimonies of human rights violations in affected areas, especially in Rutshuru and Masisi territories, including arbitrary killings, kidnappings, extortion and rapes,” the UNHCR spokesperson continued.

Lacking resources

Conditions are dire for those arriving at spontaneous or organized sites...

‘Society raises barriers’ to people with disabilities says activist in Costa Rica

Despite suffering more than 100 bone fractures stemming from a life-long illness, 29-year-old Nicole Mesén Sojo has always persisted in fighting for the rights of persons with disabilities, and now her story is part of a new online book published by the UN.

“I am the daughter of a housewife and a car painter” is how Nicaraguan activist Ms. Mesén describes herself, while sitting behind her office desk in San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, where she is now living.

Born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a condition that causes bones to break easily and damages hearing, muscles, teeth and the spine, she uses a wheelchair.

“Being born with a disability is complex, not because of the disability itself, but because of all the barriers that society generates,” she said. “Historically and culturally, we have generated a model of people. If someone breaks that model, we tend to segregate them and erect endless barriers because we build society with that model.”

She said discrimination and a dearth of knowledge about the rights of persons with disabilities prevented her from going to nursery school. By primary school, she said her mother was ready. A law on equal opportunities was already in force, so when her mother approached the Education Ministry, she made sure her seven-year-old daughter could go to school.

Syria rights investigators back calls for earthquake ‘failures’ probe

Top rights investigators appointed by the Human Rights Council on Monday delivered a highly critical assessment of the role of the Syrian Government and the international community including the UN, in getting help to communities in the northwest, hit by last month’s deadly earthquake emergency.

The Commission of Inquiry on Syria pointed to “failures that hindered the delivery of urgent and lifesaving aid” to the largely opposition-held northwest region, in the days after the 6 February quakes.

Humanitarian assessments point to more than 7,000 people killed in Syria by the natural disaster.

Rescue equipment lacking

At a press conference in Geneva, chairperson of the inquiry, Paulo Pinheiro, backed calls for a probe into alleged delays in getting aid and rescue equipment to those affected.

The people of Syria had “a right to the truth”, the veteran rights experts insisted, adding that it was also in the interests of “international good practice”, so that mistakes could be identified and avoided in future.

“They have the right to know what exactly happened for not receiving (help) immediately,” he said.

Three Black Leaders Offer One Practical Solution to Reduce Police Assaults on Black Motorists by Patrick Gaspard - P 9

Congresswoman Wants US Citizenship For Individuals Previously Excluded

NEW YORK, CMC – Caribbean American Congresswoman, Yvette D Clarke has introduced the Equal Citizenship for Children Act in the House of Representatives that would amend the Child Citizenship Act (CCA) to automatically provide US citizenship to eligible individuals previously excluded by the Act.

She is being supported in the move by North Carolina Congresswoman, Alma Adams.

“Our vital fight for substantial immigration reform necessitates that we look towards all forms of meaningful progress whenever possible,” Clarke, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, who represents the 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn, New York, told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).

“For far too long, many individuals, who have resided in this country since childhood and who should be citizens under today’s law

have been living under the fear of deportation.

“I’m proud to join Congresswoman Adams to introduce common sense solutions, such as the Equal Citizenship for Children Act, that will not only provide lifelong Americans with the citizenship they deserve, but reaffirm our commitment towards a fair and equitable immigration system,” she added. Adams said that comprehensive, common-sense immigration reform is a priority for House Democrats.

“The Equal Citizenship for Children Act amends the Child Citizenship Act to keep families together and automatically provide citizenship to eligible individuals previously excluded by the CCA.

“I’m proud to join Congresswoman Clarke in introducing this bill and taking us one step closer to immigration reform that makes sense for everyone who lives in our country,”

she added.

Since 2001, Clarke said the Child Citizenship Act has helped preserve family unity by allowing foreign-born children to acquire US citizenship when their custodial parent naturalises to US citizenship, or when they are adopted by a US citizen.

“Thanks to the CCA, most of these children automatically become citizens when they reside with their parent(s) in the US and meet certain other requirements,” Clarke said.

“However, despite having a US citizen parent, many individuals who have lived in the US since childhood and who would be citizens under today’s law, are being deported well into adulthood – and in many cases to countries where they have no family, support, or community ties.

“These deportations have lasting, devastating consequences for individuals and their families,” the Congresswoman added.

Barbados to Introduce Child Justice Legislation

BRIDGETOWN (CMC) - The Barbados government said that children under the age of 12 cannot be “deemed capable of being criminally responsible” as it seeks to harmonise the child protection legislation along with a child justice legislation.

Home Affairs and Information Minister Wilfred Abrahams told a news conference that to remove all uncertainty and all the other factors that come into play and arguments that have been made, under the new Child Protection Act “the cutoff line under this legislation will be 12”.

“No child under the age of 12 can be deemed capable of being criminally responsible,” he told reporters, adding however “that does not mean that a child can commit a crime or an offence and run free.

“But in terms of the criminal proceedings you can’t institute criminal proceedings against a child,” Abrahams said, adding that the new legislation was drafted to be fully compliant with the various conventions that Barbados is signatory to as it relates to the rights and protection of children.

“These include the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, United Nations Standard minimum Rules for the administration of juvenile justice, United Nations Rules for the protection of juveniles deprived of their liberty, and United Nations Guidelines for the prevention of juvenile delinquency.”

The age of criminal responsibility is 11 years and Abrahams said that the new legislation also speaks to the fact that the law court or anyone performing functions pursuant to the provision of the Child Protection Act should be guided by the fact that the safety, welfare and well-being should be the paramount consideration.

HARMONISE

“I started by saying that we are looking to harmonise the child protection legislation

along with a child justice legislation. If a child under 12 is engaging in behaviour that would be strictly criminal behaviour, then you have to look at the circumstances of that child. And although you can’t prosecute them for it, the state has to be able to take protection measures in the best interest of the child,” he added.

Abrahams said the Child Justice Bill 2022, to be laid in Parliament soon also indicates that a child will be given the opportunity to respond before any decision is taken which would affect his/her life.

“A child shall be addressed in a manner appropriate to his age, maturity and intellectual development. A child shall be treated in a manner which takes into account his beliefs, and all procedures to be carried out pursuant to this act should be conducted and completed in a timely manner.

“The parents and families of a child should have the right to assist the child in proceedings under this act, and wherever possible, to participate in decisions affecting the child.”

He said all consequences arising from the commission of offence by a child shall be proportionate to the circumstances of that child, the nature of the offence and the interest society and a child should not be treated more severely than an adult would in the same circumstances.

Abrahams said, a child lacking family support and educational opportunities should have equal access to available services, and every effort should be made to ensure that the child receives equal treatment in relation to other children who have committed similar offences.

He said that at multiple stages of the process there will be opportunity for diversion from the strict legal services to an avenue that encourages rehabilitation and seeks to guide the child through a solution that does not subject them to a full trial and incarceration.

NYC – Mayor Adams Blueprint for Asylum Seekers Crisis

the work that lies ahead. New Yorkers know that the asylum seeker of today is the citizen, the leader, and the innovator of tomorrow, and I’m proud that New York City is leading the way, turning a crisis into an opportunity for progress for the entire country.”

Mayor Eric Adams released “The Road Forward: Blueprint to Address New York City’s Response to the Asylum Seeker Crisis,” a comprehensive approach outlining the next phase of the city’s response to the unprecedented humanitarian crisis resulting from the surge of asylum seekers arriving in the five boroughs since last spring. As the number of asylum seekers arriving in New York City since last April tops 50,000 — with more than 30,000 currently in the city’s care — Mayor Adams announced he will create the Office of Asylum Seeker Operations (OASO) to focus solely on coordinating the city’s continued response with a focus on resettlement and legal services, as well as a new 24/7 arrival center for asylum seekers. The blueprint also outlines new strategies the city will pilot to train asylum seekers for employment, including a program with houses of worship to provide asylum seekers with a place to stay and connection to services, in addition to a partnership with SUNY Sullivan to provide job training and housing for asylum seekers as they await work authorization. Finally, the city will continue to advocate for the state and federal governments to provide additional financial and operational support to better manage the asylum seeker crisis moving forward.

“Over the past year, New York City has faced an unprecedented humanitarian crisis caused by global forces beyond our control,” said Mayor Adams. “We have moved mountains to help the tens of thousands who arrived as our shelter population has increased at a dramatic rate. As we continue to respond, I’m proud to announce, “The Road Forward,” our blueprint to address the asylum seeker crisis and outline

“The Asylum Seeker crisis has challenged so many of us in various ways – and the city’s response has been and continues to be laden with care and compassion,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “Our blueprint is a plan for how we will move forward together, and I implore everyone at all levels to help however you can. This affects us all, and together is how we can best navigate this crisis.”

“Throughout this crisis, the city has worked to center our services with dignity, respect, and care for every individual, family, and child,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Whether helping children receive needed vaccinations, assisting with school enrollment, or providing vital legal information, the city and our partners in the non-profit, faith-based, and private sector continue to step up and meet the needs of asylum seekers every day. This blueprint lays out the work to date and, more importantly, charts a path forward. The work ahead remains an ongoing, complex, interconnected set of issues that will take support from our state and federal partners, and all sectors of society. Thank you to our teams and partners that continue doing the work 24/7 to support our newest New Yorkers.”

Led by the newly created OASO, New York City will transition from an emergency response-approach to a steady state-approach in an effort to continue managing the response to the unprecedented asylum seeker crisis. OASO will manage a new, centralized 24/7 arrival center that will replace the Port Authority as a primary destination for asylum seekers when they arrive. This will enable experienced community-based providers that have been working around the clock on the ground to work in coordination more closely. OASO will also oversee inter-agency coordination, manage advocacy to state and federal governments, and lead the following initiatives to help newly arrived asylum seekers chart a course towards self-sufficiency and long-term resettlement:

Emergency Housing, Long-Term Housing, and Resettlement: The city will explore potential short- and long-term strategies regarding housing, including partnerships with religious institutions and exploring innovative ways to finance new affordable housing. The city is also launching an innovative pilot with The Center for Discovery and SUNY Sullivan to offer 100 asylum seekers the opportunity to live at the SUNY Sullivan campus and receive workforce training as they move through the federal work authorization process. Finally, the city will engage national non-profits and houses of worship to offer asylum seekers a wider array of relocation choices, including pre-vetted cities and municipalities that welcome asylum seekers.

Workforce Development: Currently, asylum seekers are federally mandated to apply for work permits, which can mean years of waiting before a permit is granted and issued. As the city continues to advocate for changes on the federal level to expedite work authorizations, the city will help asylees understand the process to move as quickly as possible through it, and ensure they are ready to obtain employment when they are legally authorized to do so. The city will launch a workplace rights campaign to reduce misinformation, create a mentorship program that connects asylum seekers to more established immigrants, and develop partnerships with organizations to identify asylum seekers who are now eligible for work permits. In addition, the city will provide Occupational Safety and Health Administration training in a variety of in-demand industries, including health care and construction, to further prepare asylum seekers for employment.

Legal Services: To ensure asylum seekers are equipped to better navigate the immigration process and avoid immigration services fraud, the city will develop a centralized entry point system to help asylum seekers navigate the federal immigration process. This will include a coordinated strategy to ensure asylum seekers are aware of important dates and deadlines regarding their case, and connections to appropriate services, such as orientation sessions and pro se (self-help) application assistance events. Engaging All New Yorkers: Faith based groups, community organizations, and philanthropic

NYC – Council Speaker’s Vision for City

Adrienne Adams, speaker of the New York City Council, outlined her goals for the upcoming year in her second State of the City address on Wednesday. She suggested funding for underfunded municipal agencies all around the city, more affordable housing, and an extension of the transit discount program.

The councilmembers’ first Black female speaker, a Democrat, delivered her address the same week they started studying the city’s $102.7 billion preliminary budget proposal. Adams spoke about creating a budget that “delivers for our communities and our working families” making him the second-most powerful elected leader in the city behind Mayor Eric Adams (not related).

Whatever suggestions Adams made will probably be discussed during budget discussions before a final plan is ready in June. The following are some key points from her speech:

Adams promised that the Council will try to broaden the city’s Fair Fares program, which lowers the cost of bus and subway fares for qualified citizens by half. Adams’ suggestion

would increase eligibility to cover New Yorkers with an annual income of $27,180. According to Adams, the program’s coverage will roughly quadruple as of Wednesday.

Speaker Adams’ expansion plan would put several hundred dollars back in the pockets of New Yorkers who most need a break, according to Danna Dennis, senior organizer at Riders Alliance, who noted that expenses for housing, food, daycare, and transit are on the verge of reaching all-time highs.

Prior to the mayor’s city budget proposal last year, the speaker and the mayor agreed to support the program with $75 million. Advocates claim that the program, which was introduced in 2019, has excluded a large number of New Yorkers who would have benefited from subsidized rates. The program has more than 280,000 residents signed up as of right now. The speaker also presented a strategy to alleviate the serious housing shortage in the city: She suggested building more houses on vacant NYCHA land, a suggestion made by past mayoral administrations.

In accordance with her plan, new public hous-

ing units would be built on NYCHA property in an effort to improve living circumstances for community members who have endured a plague of quality-of-life problems. The site would be utilized to build mixed-income and cheap housing, with public housing receiving priority.

I want to be clear. Adams stated in her presentation that tenants should determine if these advancements are acceptable.

Adams backed a long-running campaign to shutter Rikers Island’s prisons. The island’s detention facilities have long been the subject of debate about the treatment of its inmates, many of whom are still awaiting trial and have not yet been found guilty of any crimes. By 2027, the city intends to shut down Rikers and replace its facilities with prisons in the surrounding boroughs, however the mayor has voiced doubt that the present target date can be realized.

“Week after week, we see someone lose their life on Rikers at levels that are nearly unprecedented,” the speaker added. “This is inhumane. We cannot allow ourselves to become numb

and corporate partners, as well as every day New Yorkers have stepped up since the beginning of this crisis, providing support in the form of food, clothing, shelter, information, workforce development, health care, education, language instruction, job training, resources, and more. The city will hold a series of roundtables with stakeholders to learn directly from them and devise new ways they can participate. Additionally, the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City’s Asylum Seeker Relief Fund will continue working to raise $25 million from philanthropic organizations and corporations to support the city’s collective response.

Interstate and Interagency Coordination and Engagement: OASO will convene other cities and localities facing similar issues to advocate for more decisive action on the federal level to address the asylum seeker crisis. This unified coalition will call on the federal government to provide more support and resources, while also working to ensure asylum seekers have information about resources available to them. The OASO will also work with cities at the southern border to dispel misinformation about what New York City can and is actually offering to those arriving and ensure those seeking asylum receive accurate information.

The city will also continue to advocate for changes on the federal and state level to help manage this crisis. On the federal level, the city will advocate for:

An expedited right to work policy so asylum seekers are able to gain employment;

A decompression strategy that includes evaluating asylum claims and establishes plans for each migrant’s arrival, including a clear and efficient pathway to lawful residency; and Reimbursement of funds already spent, as well as adequate funding moving forward, and a declaration of a federal emergency to unlock additional funds and operational abilities. On the state level, the city will:

- Advocate for the declaration of a statewide emergency;

- Continue to support the creation of a new portable housing voucher program; and

- Continue to ask the state to locate, run, and operate sites outside of, and within, New York City to provide short- and long-term housing and shelter to asylum seekers.

to tragedy or ignore the pain this inflicts on families and communities.”

Adams continued by mentioning her own mother, a former Rikers jail employee who thought the facilities ought to have been shut down “a long time ago.”

According to Adams, Rikers is no longer serving the city.

Adams also gave high priority to a proposal to open up public access to pools run by the city’s education department and to increase access to city-owned pools by introducing legislation that would provide swimming year-round and free-swimming lessons.

“Some of us can recall when Black families were excluded from public pools – often the only access we had to enclosed water,” Adams added.

“And so today, when 1 out of 3 Black students can’t swim, while only about 1 out of 10 white students cannot, access to public pools and swimming programs must be considered a matter of justice.”

Adams stated that the Council intended to prioritize a measure to increase pool access.

Jamaica – No New Taxes in Eight Years

No new taxes will be introduced to finance the Government’s $1 trillion budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

This was announced by Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Dr. the Hon. Nigel Clarke, as he opened the 2023/24 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (March 7).

He indicated that 2023/24 represents the sixth consecutive fiscal year in which “we have not introduced any new taxes for the people of Jamaica” and the eighth year “where we have had no new net taxes.”

Conversely, Dr. Clarke said the Government will be giving up $160 million in general consumption tax (GCT) based on policy changes to facilitate the importation of horses, sheep, pigs, and goats by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries over the next five years to revitalize declining stocks and preserve food security “These policy changes… will likely generate substantially more and support domestic economic activity,” he said.

The Minister also announced a new policy to be implemented in relation to second-sale motor vehicles that will see sellers continuing to pay a flat fee of $12,000 or $18,000.

In addition, registered motor vehicle dealers will pay a rate of 15 percent general consumption tax (GCT) on the markup margin, rather than the full price.

Dr. Clarke further announced that the Income Tax Act will be amended to incentivize householders to purchase solar photovoltaic systems, as part of efforts to reduce energy costs. This will facilitate the Government’s provision of income tax credits equivalent to 30 percent of the purchase price, up to a maximum cost of $4 million.

The Minister said these activities are being undertaken “because we are committed to not only preserving our economic recovery, but to increase it and, more importantly, to share the gains with the people of Jamaica.”

“We believe in Jamaica. We believe in and support the people of Jamaica. We are firmly

committed to providing the economic environment and resources necessary to ensure that the people of Jamaica grow and prosper.

“Importantly, as we experience gains from economic reform and economic recovery, this Government has shown that we will continue to share those gains with the people of Jamaica,” Dr. Clarke added.

Funds for the 2023/24 Budget are allocated across the main expenditure categories. These comprise non-debt recurrent expenditure of $665.7 billion, capital expenditure of $75.3 billion, and debt servicing of $280.6 billion.

Central Government revenue and grant inflows are estimated at $897.6 billion, which, alongside the above-the-line expenditure of $887.7 billion, will generate the required fiscal balance surplus of $9.9 billion or 0.3 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), consistent with fiscal rules.

The corresponding primary balance required for debt service and to generate the targeted

fiscal balance is approximately $165 billion or 5.6 percent of GDP.

Compensation For Caribbean Slavery Supported by British Legislator

government’s role in promoting financial security and reducing inequality in the Caribbean without discussing the elephant in the room –namely, the preceding 400 years of exploitative colonial history and the urgent need for some form of reparatory justice,” he said thanking the Trevelyan family for doing “what no British government has ever done”.

and an initial £100,000 (One GBP=US$1.20 cents) to begin righting the wrongs of their ancestors who owned more than 1,000 slaves in the 19th Century.

on the matter”, giving Caribbean countries “tariff-free” access to the UK is more important than reparation.

links to Grenada, is calling on the United Kingdom government to pay compensation to the Caribbean for Britain’s role in the slave trade. Labor parliamentarian,  Clive Lewis, said London must enter into “meaningful negotiations” with  Caribbean countries and pay them reparation to mitigate the impact of slavery. He said the government should follow the example of the Trevelyans, a wealthy aristocratic family, who recently apologized for their role in the slave trade in Grenada and set up an educational fund on the island nation.

“I would contend that we cannot debate our

“They apologized for their ancestors’ part in the exploitation of the 1,000 slaves they owned on six plantations. They acknowledged the financial and cultural advantage that had generated for them, and urged the British Government, as I do today, to enter meaningful negotiations with the governments of the Caribbean in order to make appropriate reparations.

“The Trevelyan family did not leave it there. They set up an educational fund worth £100,000, and in so doing opened the door of the debate just a little wider. Thank you very much for all that you have done,” he added as members of the family watched the debate from the gallery on Wednesday. Chairman of the Caribbean Reparations Commission (CRC), Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, said the Trevelyans delivered a public apology

Accompanied by a group of seven of her relatives, British-American BBC anchor/correspondent, Laura Trevelyan read an apology, signed by 104 of the descendants of the part owners of six plantations in Grenada. The Trevelyans in their collaborative statement acknowledged slavery as “a crime against humanity,” noting also “its damaging effect continues to present day”.

Another Labour parliamentarian Dawn Butler in supporting calls for reparation, said “reparations are about making amends for centuries of violence and discrimination against those countries.

“It is interesting that people say ‘Let’s forget what happened’, when those countries are still in debt, their jewels and artifacts are in museums in this country, and we refuse to give them back. A lot of reparation is needed, whether it be economic reparations or an acknowledgment of what happened.”

But government legislator, Daniel Kawczynski said he and Lewis “might not entirely agree

“I would say to him that I have campaigned for many years for compensation for Poland from Germany, because 98% of the city of my birth, Warsaw, was destroyed in 1944. The Germans still refuse to pay that compensation, so I entirely understand his motives and strength of feeling.”

Foreign Office minister David Rutley did not answer the calls for reparation during the debate, saying instead “we believe that the most effective way for the UK to respond to the cruelty of the past is to ensure that current and future generations do not forget what happened, that we address racism, and that we continue to work together to tackle today’s challenges, such as climate change, through the initiatives that I have set out.

“Those need to be hard-hitting initiatives that will make a difference in people’s lives and help Caribbean nations move forward,” Rutley said. (CMC)

Haiti - New Suspect in Assassination of President Moise

Police in Haiti has named fresh suspects, including a priest and a well-known gang leader, in the July 2021 murder of President Jovenel Mose

Eight police officers have also had warrants issued, according to police spokesperson Garry Desrosiers, who stated this in an interview with Radio Télévision Carabes on Friday.

It is unclear what alleged roles the additional individuals may have played, and none of them have been detained.

Vitel’Homme Innocent, the head of the Kraze Barye gang, whose name loosely translates to “breaking barriers,” was named by Desrosiers as the gang member.

The FBI is also looking for him after accusing

him of aiding in the abduction of 17 American missionaries in October 2021. Desrosiers did not offer any other information, and he did not respond to a message seeking comment right away.

More than 40 suspects had been held in the case prior to the release of the additional arrest warrants, including at least 18 alleged perpetrators who are alleged to be ex-soldiers from Colombia who allegedly broke into Mose’s home and attacked his wife.

A former senator from Haiti and other significant figures are among the other 11 suspects held by the United States.

T&T - Opens Doors to CARICOM Workers

The Government has enacted laws that will expand the number of citizens from CARICOM member states who are permitted to enter and work in this nation and provide them permission to do so permanently.

The Proclamation of the Amendments to the Immigration (Caribbean Community Skilled Nationals) Act 2022 by President Paula-Mae Weekes was made public yesterday by Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Dr. Amery Browne.

The modifications, according to Minister Browne, “signal Trinidad and Tobago’s ongoing commitment to the deepening and strengthening of the regional integration process and brings Trinidad and Tobago into compliance with decisions of the Conference of Heads of Government regarding the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and the Free Movement Regime.”

There are now 12 instead of 5 kinds of workers that are eligible for free local transportation (university graduates, artists, musicians, media professionals, and athletes).

A couple of the extra groupings include security guards and agricultural laborers.

The change is another important step since it will allow Caricom workers to stay permanently in T&T.

When introducing the Bill in the Lower House of Parliament in June of last year, Browne

clarified that clause 5 amends sections 3, 4, and 4(1), which aim to harmonize the protocol for Caricom nationals at the port of entry with the decision made by heads of state at the Thirteenth Regular Meeting in 2009, stating that all eligible categories of competent community nationals must be granted a definite entry of six months if they present their skills certificate at a point of entry.

“The receiving country has the right to verify the qualifications of the skilled national. Once verification has been completed, an indefinite stay shall be granted and the stamp entitled, “free movement, indefinite entry, right to work” must be affixed to their passport. Again, bringing us into line with the rest of the region,” he explained.

Before, there was a requirement to reapply for admittance into T&T within six months following entry.

A mechanism of verification is already standardized and in place across all member nations, according to Browne’s statement to Guardian Media yesterday.”

Every certificate we issue”, he continued, “will come with an advisory letter clearly outlining rights and responsibilities.”

According to him, the Immigration Service will issue two stamps that read, “entry for 6 months, right to work, verification required.”

The other stamp would say, “Free movement indefinite right to work,” if verified.

“If the holder of the certificate is found afterward to have false documents, is in serious breach of the law, or is a threat to national security, the Minister of National Security retains the right to revoke the status as a permitted entrant,” he noted.

According to the law, a violation of this would result in a $100,000 fine and five years in jail.

In a statement on the development, Michael Annisette, general secretary of the National Trade Union Centre (NATUC), praised the action and said it was a long time.

“We cannot do it by ourselves, regardless of

how much money you have, how much gas money, how much oil, you cannot do it by yourself. We need to come together as a body, as a region, and work in unity for the development of the region,” he stated.

Annisette debunked the claim made by some in the public that immigrants would come here to oust natives from their occupations.

He explained, “We need to get past that narrative, you know, ‘you coming to take my job’ because those are things that have been instilled in our minds to bring about the continued division that we have.”

Several nations in the region have already enacted the rules imposed in this nation.

Dr. Amery Browne, the minister of foreign and Caricom affairs, met with US politicians and members of the TT diaspora on Thursday in Washington, DC, to address a number of topics of relevance to both parties.

According to a statement released by the ministry on Thursday, Brown initially met at the US Capitol Building with Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, the minority leader in the US House of Representatives.

They talked about immigration, violent crime, terrorism, the situation in Haiti, and potential areas of cooperation that may advance the bilateral relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and the US at both the national and regional levels.

After that, Browne met with Congressman Stacy Plaskett, who was representing the US Virgin Islands.

According to the ministry, Plaskett and Browne expressed similar viewpoints on issues including Haiti’s condition, the growth of violent crime in Caricom, and the difficulties of maintaining correspondent banking relationships.

During their conversation, Browne emphasized the significance of the Caricom symposium on crime as a public health issue, which TT will host later this year. The Prime Minister discussed the need to confront crime as a public health issue last year.

Browne praised Congressman Steven Horsford for promoting the purchase of covid19 vaccinations on TT’s behalf during the covid19 epidemic. Browne brought up the fact that the US is a source of illicit weaponry in Caricom during his conversations with Horsford.

Horsford showed interest in the recently announced Immigration (Caribbean Community Skilled Nationals) Act 2022 modifications, which increase from five to twelve the types of employees qualified for unrestricted movement throughout the Caricom area under the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME).

Horsford also showed interest in visiting TT soon with a group from the US Congress and working together to boost TT’s tourism brands there.

In the US, Browne met with 60 TT Diaspora leaders. Several leaders met Browne in person for this hybrid summit, while others participated electronically.

He expressed his gratitude for their ongoing assistance to TT and the ministry’s dedication to the diaspora.

The creation of a ministry-wide section for diaspora issues and ongoing work on a draft national diaspora policy, according to Browne, reflect the latter.

He further stated that anyone from the diaspora was welcome to offer their opinions on this draft policy.

Massive Tribute To Harriet Tubman

Authorities in Newark are paying a colossal monument to a renowned American abolitionist.

Now prominently visible in Downtown Newark is the Harriet Tubman memorial. Her great-great-great-great-grandnieces attended the special event on Thursday at Harriet Tubman Plaza on Broad Street at Washington Place, where the monument was unveiled.

“It’s phenomenal, it’s emotional, it’s breathtaking and it is impressive,” remarked relative Michelle Jones-Galvin.

Adrianne Jones-Roderic, a relative, remarked, “Aunt Harriet has transcended not just to our family but through all of humanity which I love.”

Workers changed Washington Park to Harriet Tubman Plaza in a formal ceremony during the summer.

The enormous artwork was chosen by Newark officials as a permanent memorial to Tubman’s achievements.

One of the most famous Underground Railroad drivers after escaping slavery, was Tubman.

A statue of Christopher Columbus that the city dismantled in 2020 has been replaced

by the Harriet Tubman statue.

“In a time when so many cities are choosing to topple statues that limit the scope of their people’s story, we have chosen to erect a monument that spurs us into our future story of exemplary strength and solidity. In a country where the overwhelming majority of monuments are testaments to white males, Newark has chosen to erect a monument to a Black woman who was barely five feet tall, but had the visage and power of a giant,” stated Mayor Baraka.

He noted, “We have created a focal point in the heart of our city that expresses our participation in an ongoing living history of a people who have grappled through many conflicts to steadily lead our nation in its progress toward racial equality.” The interactive ode to the abolitionist was created by Queen Latifah in collaboration with Newark-based Audible.

“It has truly been about history, legacy, home, inspiration to our future,” Queen Latifah noted.

Jamaica – Tremendous Goodwill Towards A Country, Let Us Not Waste It

Jamaica has had the good fortune to enjoy tremendous goodwill in the United States and around the world. It has a strong and active diaspora that goes back to its very foundation of universal adult suffrage and independence; that active diaspora is still active today and is acting to provide resources and goodwill and to be ambassadors for a country that they care for and want to see at its best.

This goodwill extends beyond the diaspora to individuals and organizations who feel a strong connection to Jamaica and of course, the country has a strong reputation with respect to its achievements in the area of sports, culture, education, and in so many other areas.

So there is no lack of goodwill for the country. There’s no lack of talent inside and outside of the country to be deployed to keep the country on track and in good stead. Yes, there are problems that the country has faced and problems that are of concern to those with goodwill. Chief among those problems is the problem of

corruption, the corruption that has been far too widespread in the country and has been a deterrent to more active and dedicated engagement in the country. This corruption has plagued the country for some time, and unfortunately, it is still a major factor in how the country is viewed and how it attracts both the diaspora and other elements of goodwill and investment. We quite understand the government and their good intentions of solving some of these problems and indeed, their success in many areas with respect to governance and advancement of the country. But we must be careful that good intentions alone is not sufficient to encourage, develop and expand the goodwill towards Jamaica. The country cannot afford to squander this goodwill and to be able to perform at its highest. This brings us to the issue of confidence in the financial system in Jamaica and the fraud scandal surrounding SSL and that is being brought to light by the scamming of the world’s most recognized athlete, Usain Bolt. What a shock this was

and indeed what a disgrace and a bad signal to those of goodwill towards Jamaica. It signaled a lack of real control, management and oversight of a significant part of the financial system by the government, and apparently this has been an ongoing problem, not just for this particular institution, but for others where the lapse of control, oversight and careful management has allowed the sector to be a free operator.

The initial reaction to this scandal was somewhat casual and measured in spite of the urgency and the significant impact that it has had on goodwill towards the country. Yes, investigations have been launched; while the comments and commentary were slow in coming from government officials, it is now being addressed, but addressed in a form not aggressive enough and reassuring enough for those in the diaspora and I’m sure at home, who would want to see a firmer, more aggressive answer/effort to this fraud that has been committed on the country

and on a key element in its development, that of investment and security of those investments. As we sample the diaspora, it is clear that there is a strong desire to be an effective partner of goodwill to the country, Jamaica. But there’s also a strong notion that good intention alone cannot satisfy what is required to bring about the accountability and the restoration of confidence that is necessary to continue the goodwill towards the country and all that would bring in the way of support in so many ways and on so many levels.

There is no questioning the integrity of the government and its ministries.

Prime Minister Holness has said that he is disgusted and upset by the SSL incident, and many others feel the same way. We need to act, deal with and safeguard against this ever happening again - the goodwill will follow.

A More Humanitarian Immigration Law

Congressmember Yvette Clarke of New York and Congressmember Alma Adams of North Carolina have taken up a fight in Congress to bring about a more humanitarian immigration law and a law that would introduce equal citizen protection for parents and children.

They are proposing an amendment to the Child Citizenship Act of 2000 an act that had bipartisan support. The Child Citizen Act went into effect in February of 2001 and has significantly changed the way children of naturalized citizens are treated, in fact, it immediately made some 75,000 children eligible for citizenship when the law was first implemented. It was hailed as a good signal to bring about family unity and some equity in the immigration law. And by all counts, it was a good bipartisan attempt in Congress. The law itself is still of tremendous value in the immigration area and has served well to provide a pathway to citizen -ship for children of naturalized citizens and has been key in the family reunification process. However, there was immediately recognized a floor in the law that

did not provide the protection for certain children of. U.S. citizens, many of whom resided in the U.S. since childhood and should have been citizen under the law. But because of that oversight, they are presumed deportable for certain crimes that would not ordinarily be the case if the Child Citizenship law was applied to them from the beginning. To cure this situation, Congresswomen Yvette Clarke and Alma Adams have now introduced into Congress the Equal Citizenship for Children Act to amend the Child Citizenship Act and to provide U.S. citizenship for eligible individuals previously excluded by the act. We commend the two members of Congress who have taken this situation on one that is very vexing in the community, and one that we have seen in so many ways, individuals being deported to countries that they have left when they were infants, have no ties and are sent back just to create more chaos and more problems and not solving any situation. Leading a more aggrieved family situation and inhuman conditions.

“Comprehensive, common-sense immi-

gration reform is a priority for House Democrats. The Equal Citizenship for Children Act amends the Child Citizenship Act (CCA) to keep families together and automatically provide citizenship to eligible individuals previously excluded by the CCA,” said Representative Adams. “I’m proud to join Congresswoman Clarke in introducing this bill and taking us one step closer to immigration reform that makes sense for everyone who lives in our country.”

Congressmember Yvette Clarke made this point, “Our vital fight for substantial immigration reform necessitates that we look towards all forms of meaningful progress whenever possible. For far too long, many individuals, who have resided in this country since childhood and who should be citizens under today’s law have been living under the fear of deportation. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Adams to introduce common sense solutions, such as the Equal Citizenship for Children Act, that will not only provide lifelong Americans with the citizenship they deserve, but reaffirm our commitment towards a fair

and equitable immigration system”. The fear Representative Clarke speaks of is a fear that is strong within the immigrant community and fear that is understood by so many because it has impacted so many lives.

Congress has tried to fix this law by introducing the Adoptee Citizenship Act in 2015 and the Adoptee Citizenship Act of 2021, both Congressmembers Clarke and Adams have indicated their determination for a successful push for their new bill to amend the Child Citizenship Act. They must be commended for this bold and strong undertaking and must be supported in this mission and so it is or right duty to help this effort by lobbying, writing all members of Congress on both sides of the aisle to appeal to their sense of humanity. Family reunification, a bedrock of the United States immigration policy that should be implemented in this new bill.

Let us provide the support that these Congressmembers need and do the best we can to push for this is remedy of a very sad situation.

The Department of Justice announced last week that it will review the use of force by the Memphis Police Department. It also plans to examine the operations of specialized police units such as the one responsible for killing Tyre Nichols.

The decision by federal authorities to launch a probe into the events that led to Nichols’ killing is welcome news. We can’t afford to wait for the investigation’s results, however, to fix a problem that endangers Black lives every day: needless traffic stops.

As three Black men, we know firsthand the worry of whether the everyday act of driving will end in tragedy for ourselves, our brothers and sisters, or nieces and nephews and children — just as it did for Nichols. And as leaders of three of the nation’s largest organizations committed to criminal and racial justice, we understand that there are concrete steps we can take to enact policies that make traffic stops safer for our families and for all Black Americans.

Statistics show just how dangerous driving while Black can be: Traffic stops are one of the most common ways police encounter the public. Police make 20 million stops each year, according to research. Black motorists are less likely than White drivers to possess illegal items such as drugs or weapons, but they are stopped more often, and after a traffic stop they are more likely to be searched.

Of the more than 1,000 people killed by police each year, 10% involved traffic stops. The most common stated reasons for a traffic stop? One study found that nearly half were for minor issues such as a broken taillight, a defective or missing license plate or tinted windows. Why is this the work of armed police officers?

Don’t be fooled into thinking that those 20 million stops are at all necessary, targeted efforts to deliver safety. Traffic stops are a major moneymaker, and Black people know this. Some towns and cities generate at least 10% of their annual budgets from traffic stop revenue. Traffic stops are poor tools for fighting crime and make the roadways markedly less safe for Black drivers. Black people in this country and law enforcement come into contact entirely too often; changing the way traffic stops happen in this nation is foundational to any discussion about police reform.

States and localities have an important role to play by passing laws and ordinances to end or at least limit the use of traffic stops for low-level issues that do not affect safety — such as a

Patrick Gaspard

and

Three Black Leaders Offer One Practical Solution to Reduce Police Assaults on Black Motorists by

broken taillight or tinted windows.

Following Nichols’ death, the Memphis City Council acquiesced to public demands and took a step in the right direction by considering an ordinance that will redirect police away from low-level traffic stops. But no city or state should wait until a tragedy occurs or they’re under the scrutiny of media attention before acting.

Some states have adopted or are considering similar policies, including Virginia, Oregon and Washington, as well as the cities of Philadelphia and Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Meanwhile, prosecutors in Minnesota, Michigan and Vermont have found law enforcement practices resulting from traffic stops so gratuitously harmful that they have refused to charge cases that emerge from them.

Traffic stops have proven to be deadly from coast to coast, but waiting for municipalities to solve the problem means that Black Americans living in these cities and states could be vulnerable any time they decide to travel. Immediate action is needed, and the Biden administration must take the lead.

The police who killed Tyre Nichols were Black. But they might still have been driven by racism

The US Department of Transportation sends hundreds of millions of dollars each year in highway safety funding to states on the condition that localities engage in traffic enforcement. By reforming traffic stops, federal, state and local leaders can save countless lives.

others

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg should instruct his department to disburse safety grants to localities that limit low-level traffic stops and rely on traffic enforcement methods other than police, including civilian traffic professionals who can address road safety issues without the intimidation — and possible danger — of a badge and a gun.

States and cities can also eliminate the basis for millions of traffic stops in the first place by offering vouchers for free repairs and services to motorists to fix broken taillights, replace a defective or missing license plate, or renew a lapsed registration. Several counties and cities have launched these kinds of programs, including Long Island’s Suffolk County, New York and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

None of these reforms require more policing, or more funding for police. They would all increase safety in Black communities that are overpoliced yet underserved. Police funding can go toward investigating and resolving real crimes, rather than undermining the legitimacy of law enforcement in our communities.

We, as a society, must stop incentivizing police departments to conduct traffic enforcement on what amounts to low-level offenses. We must not wait until the next tragedy to take action on these concrete steps forward. That is the best way to honor Tyre Nichols and countless others who have been surveilled, harassed and too often killed while doing something as simple as driving while Black.

Here’s How the White House Says President Biden’s Budget Advances Equity

President Joe Biden unveiled a $6.8 trillion budget plan that includes aiding several social programs, raising taxes on the wealthy, and decreasing the country’s debt by $3 trillion over the next decade.

While the plan has little chance of passing through the GOP-led House, the President doubled-down on a previous executive order that directs the federal government to advance an ambitious equity and racial justice agenda. Biden reminded lawmakers that his administration has made significant progress advancing equity across the federal government, including by releasing a second executive order last month that strengthens the government’s ability to create opportunities for communities and populations that have been historically underserved, and one that “continues to build an America in which all can participate, prosper, and reach their full potential.”

Among other things, Biden’s budget seeks the following:

Advance Maternal Health and Health Equity.

The Budget includes $471 million to support implementation of the White House Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity rates and address persistent disparities; expand maternal health initiatives in rural communities; implement implicit bias training for healthcare providers; create pregnancy medical home demonstration projects; and address the highest rates of perinatal health disparities, including by supporting the perinatal health workforce.

In addition, the Budget requires all States to

by Stacy M.Brown

provide continuous Medicaid coverage for 12 months postpartum, eliminating gaps in health insurance at a critical time.

The budget expands access to quality, affordable health care by investing $150 billion over 10 years to improve and expand Medicaid home and community-based services, such as personal care services, which would allow older Americans and individuals with disabilities to remain in their homes and stay active in their communities as well as improve the quality of jobs for home care workers.

To bolster the health care workforce, the budget provides a total of $966 million in 2024 to expand the National Health Service Corps, which provides loan repayment and scholarships to healthcare professionals in exchange for practicing in underserved areas, and a total of $350 million to expand programs that train and support the nursing workforce. Additionally, the budget supports survivors of domestic violence and other forms of gender-based violence by significantly increasing support and protect survivors of gender-based violence, including $519 million for the Family Violence Prevention and Services (FVPSA) program to support domestic violence survivors—double the 2023 enacted level.

The President also wants to guarantee adequate and stable funding for HIS.

The budget requests an additional $3 billion in 2024 for a total of $8.1 billion in discretionary resources, and proposes all IHS resources as mandatory beginning in 2025.

Biden also proposes to provide $90 million to support State and local fair housing enforce-

ment organizations and to further education, outreach, and training on rights and responsibilities under Federal fair housing laws. The budget also invests in HUD staff and technical assistance to affirmatively further fair housing and reduce barriers that restrict housing and neighborhood choice.

The White House said the budget would expand access to affordable rent through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, which currently provides 2.3 million low-income families with rental assistance to obtain housing in the private market.

Biden wants to provide $32.7 billion, an increase of $2.4 billion over the 2023 enacted level, to maintain services for all currently assisted families and—together with HCV program reserves—to expand assistance to an additional 180,000 households, particularly those who are experiencing homelessness or fleeing domestic violence.

To further ensure that more households have access to safe and affordable housing, the budget provides $9 billion in mandatory funding to establish a housing voucher program for all 20,000-youth aging out of foster care annually; and provides $13 billion to incrementally expand rental assistance for 450,000 extremely low-income veteran families, paving a path to guaranteed assistance for all who have served the nation and are in need.

To prevent and reduce homelessness, the budget provides $3.7 billion, an increase of $116 million over the 2023 enacted level, for HUD Homeless Assistance Grants to meet renewal needs and expand assistance to approximately

25,000 additional households, including survivors of domestic violence and homeless youth. The budget also seeks to prevent evictions by making the legal process during eviction proceedings fairer, and mitigate future housing instability, and providing $3 billion in mandatory spending for competitive grants to promote and solidify state and local efforts to reform eviction policies by providing access to legal counsel, emergency rental assistance, and other forms of rent relief.

Also, to help ensure that every student receives a high-quality education, the Budget provides $20.5 billion for Title I, which would continue historic progress in increasing Title I funding over the past two years.

Title I provides critical funding to 90 percent of school districts across the nation, helping them to provide students in low-income communities the academic opportunities and support they need to succeed.

The administration said every child with a disability should have access to the high-quality early intervention, special education services, and personnel needed to thrive in school and graduate ready for college or a career.

The budget invests $16.8 billion in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) grants to support special education and related services for more than seven million students with disabilities in grades Pre-K through 12, an increase of $2.1 billion above the 2023 enacted level.

Information for this report was provided by the White House.

Women’s History Month - Women in Education

Women’s History Month - Women in Education

Women’s Rights Leader and CUNY Alum Pauli Murray

Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray, a 1933 Hunter College graduate who is considered one of the most important social justice advocates of the 20th century, will be a 2024 honoree for the American Women Quarters Program, the U.S. Mint announced. Murray was a lawyer, activist, poet and the first Black woman ordained as an Episcopal priest. A co-founder of the National Organization for Women (NOW), Murray’s writing inspired both Thurgood Marshall and Ruth Bader Ginsburg as they prepared landmark Supreme Court decisions arguing against segregation and sex-based discrimination.

“On International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of women and fighting against gender discrimination, we are delighted that Pauli Murray

will be recognized in such an indelible way for being an unrelenting advocate and showing the foresight to anticipate some of the most significant issues of our time,” said CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez. “I would also like to take this moment to celebrate the many women of CUNY who, throughout our 175-year history, have fought for social justice, made groundbreaking scientific advancements, wrote influential works across many fields and served the public as elected leaders.”

“All of the women being honored have lived remarkable and multi-faceted lives, and have made a significant impact on our nation in their own unique way,” said Mint Director Ventris C. Gibson in a statement. “The women pioneered change during their lifetimes, not

yielding to the status quo imparted during their lives. By honoring these pioneering women, the Mint continues to connect America through coins, which are like small works of art in your pocket.”

The other 2024 honorees for the American Women Quarters Program are Civil-War-era surgeon Mary Edwards Walker, U.S. Congressperson Patsy Takemoto Mink, Native American activist and author Zitkala-Ša and Cuban-American singer Celia Cruz. Cruz will be the first Afro-Latina to appear on a U.S. quarter. The U.S. Mint will announce the 2024 American Women Quarters designs, as well as the sequence of their release into circulation in 2024, at a later date.

USPS Dedicates ‘Beautiful and Powerful’ Toni Morrison Stamp at Princeton

Family, friends, fans and stamp collectors gathered at Richardson Auditorium in Alexander Hall on March 7 to pay tribute to Morrison and to celebrate the first day of issue for the Toni Morrison Commemorative Forever stamp.

The stamp dedication ceremony — available for viewing in its entirety on YouTube — included numerous remembrances of Morrison’s life and legacy, including a video message from Oprah Winfrey and a letter from former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Class of 1985, that was presented to Morrison’s family.

“We’re honored to join Toni Morrison’s family and everyone gathered here in celebrating one of the world’s greatest storytellers,” the Obamas wrote in their letter, which was read by Ruha Benjamin, professor of African American studies. “Toni told fundamental truths about our country and the human condition. But she didn’t just reflect what was true. She helped generations of Black Americans reimagine what was possible. That’s why we return to her stories again and again, finding new meaning each time.”

In her video tribute, Winfrey recounted some favorite Toni Morrison stories and lauded Morrison’s impact on readers. Winfrey featured four of Morrison’s books in her Oprah’s Book Club — more than any other author — and also helped bring “Beloved” to the screen in 1998. “Toni Morrison’s books are in so many of our homes and abide in our hearts because she served as a catalyst for generations of readers over the years to understand the power of reading and words,” Winfrey said. Watch her video message on YouTube.

“It is a privilege to be able to host this event here at Princeton, because Toni Morrison has mattered tremendously to our campus and to our community,” said University President Christopher L. Eisgruber in his opening remarks. “Throughout her life, she was a transformative presence who inspired those around her, and Princeton continues to reflect the remarkable effects of her legacy.”

Morrison joined the Princeton faculty in 1989 as the Robert F. Goheen Professor in the Humanities at Princeton and was a member of the University’s creative writing program until she transferred to emeritus status in 2006. In 1994, she founded the Princeton Atelier, a program that brings renowned artists and performers from a wide range of disciplines to campus to

collaborate with Princeton students and scholars. In 2017, Princeton dedicated a prominent campus building to Morrison in recognition of her many contributions to this University and to humanity.

The stamp issuance coincides with the landmark “Toni Morrison: Sites of Memory” exhibition at the Princeton University Library (through June 4) and a season of affiliated scholarly and artistic events across campus. The exhibition, curated by Autumn Womack, assistant professor of English and African American studies, explores Morrison’s creative process by using about 100 original archival items from the library’s extensive Toni Morrison Papers — most of them never before exhibited.

Morrison’s impact on Princeton and humanity is manifold, Eisgruber said.

“As a teacher, she helped her students develop their narrative voices and hone the craft of writing,” Eisgruber said. “As a colleague, she was generous with her time and her wisdom. She was an outstanding scholar who recognized the value of interdisciplinary collaborations and artistic work to the academic enterprise. She was a mentor for generations of students, including our Dean of the Faculty Gene Jarrett, and she was a role model who inspired artists of color to pursue their creative aspirations. And, of course, she was a writer of rare genius, brilliant originality and genuinely historic importance.”

‘Extraordinary and enduring contributions’ Morrison was chosen as a subject for a Forever stamp as someone who has “made extraordinary and enduring contributions to American society,” according to a spokesperson for the U.S. Postal Service.

USPS receives approximately 30,000 suggestions annually for stamp ideas an d chooses about 25 to 30 of those. The Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee then reviews the suggestions and makes recommendations to the postmaster general. The committee, appointed by the postmaster general, consists of individuals with strong backgrounds in history, science, technology, art, education, sports and other subjects of public interest.

Art director Ethel Kessler designed the Morrison stamp with a photograph taken in 1997 by Deborah Feingold.

Kessler said given Morrison’s stature as a dynamic figure in literature, it was important to her that the stamp be powerful. She and

image researchers combed countless photos of Morrison from throughout her life, examining everything from background color to facial expression to how each image depicted different moments in Morrison’s career.

Feingold, who spoke at the ceremony, recalled the day she took the photo at Morrison’s home. It was her first time meeting the author and her first photo shoot for the cover of TIME.

“I photographed her in different outfits, while posing against different backgrounds,” Feingold said. “For even the most seasoned subjects, this process can be exhausting. But Toni remained focused and present, her expression for every frame was one of kindness. I have never taken that photoshoot for granted. And standing in front of you today, I humbly admit that this is beyond an honor.”

“This stamp will be powerful and iconic,” Kessler said.

A befitting tribute

Princeton was chosen as the site of the first-day ceremony since Morrison’s time as a professor at the University represented the height of her career.

The program opened with a recording of Toni Morrison’s sonorous voice reading from her novel “Jazz,” while her image and covers of her books were displayed on a screen above the stage.

Princeton Army ROTC presented the colors and members of the Old NasSoul a cappella group performed the national anthem. The vocalists later returned to the stage to sing “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

The stamp was officially unveiled by Pritha Mehra, chief information officer and executive vice president of the Postal Service. As a cur-

tain was dropped from an oversized reproduction of the stamp on stage and also revealed on the projection screen above, Mehra exclaimed, “Wow, she really holds the room? Doesn’t she?” “We think you’ll agree, like the woman herself, that the Toni Morrison stamp is both beautiful and powerful,” Mehra said.

Mehra was joined in the unveiling by other program participants, including Eisgruber; Feingold; Benjamin; Dean of the Faculty Gene Jarrett, Class of 1997, who was a student of Morrison’s; and Carla Hayden, the 14th Librarian of Congress and chief executive of the Library of Congress.

Jarrett lauded Morrison as “one of the most accomplished and distinguished faculty members ever to grace the campuses of higher education — from Howard University to Princeton University.”

“While Toni Morrison’s image on the stamp welcomes us as consumers, the legacy of her intellect, of her artistry, welcomes us as thinkers,” said Jarrett, whose full remarks are online. “We must ensure that the story of democracy and national citizenship, told across generations by the U.S. stamp, culminates with a resolutely inclusive idea of what it means to be an American. This nation demonstrates its greatest cultural potential, in other words, when all its diverse array of talent is included — that is, embraced and enhanced — for the greater good.”

Hayden, who recalled readers lining up to check out Morrison’s latest in Baltimore and Chicago where she worked as a librarian, said Morrison’s work is an important part of libraries’ literary collections. “Through her novels, children’s books and essays, she communicated the Black experience on a canvas writ large for audiences who knew it firsthand, as well as for those who learned — perhaps for the first time — about the stinging and terrific aftermath of treating fellow human beings as less than equal,” Hayden said.

Winfrey said Morrison was able to reach people from all over world — especially women — and gather them together in an entirely new experience.

“I will be forever grateful for her work and know that we will always have Toni Morrison in our lives, because we will always have her words, and now we have this commemorative stamp,” Winfrey said.

NY Tour Dates - Diva 2.0 12 Life Lessons From Me For You! by Sheryl Lee Ralph

Emmy, Tony and Spirit Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph knows a thing or two about staying power in the capricious world of Hollywood. A seasoned professional who has taken the best lessons learned and used them to move her stellar career forward, she now shares them with you. If you are an aspiring DIVA in training, regardless of your career choice, much of what she says in DIVA 2.0, you’ll find invaluable. These 12 lessons could help elevate your journey to greater heights. In these personal tales and recollections, Sheryl Lee Ralph reveals the ups and downs of stardom, the heartbreaks and triumphs, the strength she found in her family and the kind of love that gives wings.

You’ll go behind the scenes of stage, screen, and media to discover what a true DIVA must know. The first step: respecting oneself.

Whether starring on the big screen with Sidney Poitier, Denzel Washington, Eddie Murphy, Robert De Niro, Jon Voight, or Whoopi Goldberg, or on the small screen in Moesha, Ray Donovan, Motherland: Fort Salem, or Abbott Elementary, Sheryl

Lee Ralph can be counted on to bring her D.I.V.A: Divinely Inspired, Victoriously, Awesome self to every project. These DIVA inspired qualities have earned her the respect of her peers and recognition from legions of fans.

DIVA 2.0 will empower and encourage anyone seeking to find and live their best life with beauty, dignity and a grace that radiates from within.

Tour Dates

March 17

Venue: P&T Knitwear Bookstore Place 180 Orchard Street, Soho NY, NY 10002

Time: 6:00 - 8:00 pm

March 18

Billy Holiday Theater

Time: 3:00 - 4:00 pm

March 18

Westchester Deltas

Time: 5.00 - 6:00 pm

Venue: Sonesta Hotel 66 Hale Avenue White Plains, NY 10601

Bees power healthy ecosystems. So we’re proud to partner with The Bee Conservancy, which has protected an estimated 10 million bees to date.

Guyana – Man Sentenced For 4 Years for Trafficking in Jamaican Nationals

A 44-year-old farmer in Guyana has been jailed for four years after he was found guilty of trafficking two Jamaican women. A Guyana Police Force (GPF) statement said that Tito Browne was also sentenced to one-year imprisonment on the count of withholding the passports of the two Jamaican nationals.

Browne, who was arrested by police on April 28, 2021— one day after a wanted bulletin was issued for him— was also fined GUY$200,000 (J$145,000) and ordered to pay $6.3 million in restitution to the victims.

Browne, also known as ‘Tommy’ and ‘Yankee’ appeared before Magistrate Wanda Fortune at the Linden Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. He was charged with two counts of trafficking in persons and on each count, he was sentenced to four years imprisonment. The sentences will run concurrently.

The magistrate handed down the senten-

ces after an eight-month-long trial that began in December 2021 and concluded last August.

The court was told that in November 2020, one of the victims met an individual in Jamaica, who indicated that Browne needed someone to work on his farm at Kara Kara Creek, Linden, in Guyana, and was willing to pay US$5,000 for the work to be done. The first victim reportedly informed the second victim about the opportunity, and together they arranged with Browne, who promised to facilitate all their travel expenses.

The women left Jamaica on December 12, 2020, and upon their arrival in Guyana, Browne instructed them to inform immigration that they would only be spending two weeks.

“Upon arriving at the campsite at Kara Kara Creek, Browne informed them that they would be spending six months at the campsite and confiscated their passports.

The victims recounted that from the date of entry to 24th April 2021, they worked at the Kara Kara camp but never received any compensation from Browne,” the police statement said.

The victims added that Browne would visit periodically and demand that they work more diligently. Though he continuously promised to pay them, he never did. They were only allowed to contact their families from Browne’s phone whenever he visited the campsite.

They told the police that for three weeks, no one visited them, and their supplies ran low, forcing them to leave the site. “The victims were forced to venture from the camp in search of other campsites, walking through bushes and swamp lands until they managed to locate a logger who eventually took them to a village where they related their story and made a police report,” the police said. (CMC)

US Coast Guard Seized $160 Million In Drugs

No

The United States Coast Guard says the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Spencer (WMEC 905) offloaded in Port Everglades, Florida about 4,810 kilos of cocaine worth over US$160.3 million seized in the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Along with the illicit narcotics, the US Coast Guard said eight suspected smugglers were apprehended and face prosecution in US federal court by the US Department of Justice.

The US Coast Guard said the offloaded drugs were interdicted during three separate cases in the international waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

The crews were from the US Coast Guard Cutter Spencer (WMEC 905); USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) with embarked USCG Law Enforcement Detachment 104; Royal Netherlands Navy Ship HNLMS Holland

(P840) with embarked USCG Law Enforcement Detachment 401; and a USCG Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron helicopter.

The US Coast Guard said that, initially, a suspect vessel was “detected and monitored” by US or allied military or law enforcement personnel coordinated by Joint Interagency Task Force-South based in Key West, Florida.

“Once interdiction becomes imminent, the law enforcement phase of the operation begins, and control of the operation shifts to the US Coast Guard throughout the interdiction and apprehension.”

It said interdictions in the Caribbean Sea are performed by members of the US Coast Guard under the authority and control of the Coast Guard’s Seventh District, headquartered in Miami. (CMC)

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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 system 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 News 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.

NY – Rally for Health Coverage for All

Exactly one month before the New York State budget is due, immigrant New Yorkers with the Coverage for All Coalition alongside State Senator Gustavo Rivera and Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas rallied in Albany to call for state leaders to expand access to health coverage to all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status, in the state budget. At the rally directly impacted communities’ members shared their stories to urge the Governor to support legislation to expand health care coverage to everyone, by ensuring the Coverage for All bill (Rivera S2237|Gonzalez-Rojas A3020) is included in the state budget this year. In addition, they continued to call on the state to immediately amend the 1332 Federal Waiver request to include all immigrants, regardless of immigration status.

“All New Yorkers deserve access to affordable medical care, in order to lead safe, productive, and healthy lives. One unlucky diagnosis should not result in financial ruin and longterm debt,” said Angela Castrillo-Vilches, Manager of Member Engagement Capital Region, New York Immigration Coalition. “Yet, nearly a quarter million immigrant New Yorkers are ineligible for healthcare coverage simply because of their immigration status. New York

State has an opportunity to ensure that everyone who calls New York home has the ability to get the life-saving healthcare coverage they need to keep our communities and workforce strong and resilient. If this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we are all healthier when the most vulnerable amongst us are also healthy.”

“Governor Hochul committed to including undocumented New Yorkers in the 1332 waiver to the federal government to include undocumented New Yorkers in the Essential Plan last year. We are now asking her to follow through on her commitment and include this population, my constituents, and our fellow New Yorkers in that waiver to provide healthcare to 245,000 New Yorkers across our state. If they were good enough to care for rich people’s children, stock our shelves, and clean our buses and trains, then we can at least provide them with the basic need and human right that is healthcare. If we don’t do this, we will only add to the 2,000 lives lost during this COVID-19 pandemic, and inaction is not an option. I call on our legislature and Governor to support and pass Coverage for All this session,” said Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas. After the press conference, advocates marched

around the Capitol and dropped off messages in medicine bottles to Governor Hochul’s office to remind the Governor of her commitment to seeking a 1332 federal waiver to allow New York State to spend federal dollars to expand health coverage to undocumented immigrants. Governor Hochul last year agreed to request

such a waiver for immigrant health coverage expansion. Yet, earlier this month, the Governor inexplicably backtracked on her clear commitment.

Eliana Jaramillo, a member of Make the Road New York, said, “For over 30 years, I worked as a street vendor—a difficult job which requires working outdoors in extreme weather. Every day for years I had to carry my tables and my items to sell. These years have not come in vain, I feel myself carrying the weight of the years in my bones. I live with pain in my bones, with pain that goes untreated because I cannot get a medical consultation. Healthcare access without health insurance is expensive. Today, I’m raising my voice because extension 1332 as it stands right now excludes immigrants like me. The state must revise the proposal to include all immigrants like me, and expand the New York State Essential Health plan to include immigrants by passing the Coverage for All bill.” Coverage for All would cover an estimated 245,000 uninsured people in our state who are left out of federally funded health insurance, and it would save the state more than $500 million a year which it currently spends on Emergency Medicaid for this population.

Massive Efforts Needed to Reduce Salt Intake

A first-of-its-kind World Health Organization (WHO) Global report on sodium intake reduction shows that the world is off-track to achieve its global target of reducing sodium intake by 30% by 2025.

Sodium, an essential nutrient, increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and premature death when eaten in excess. The main source of sodium is table salt (sodium chloride), but it is also contained in other condiments such as sodium glutamate. The report shows that only 5% of WHO Member States are protected by mandatory and comprehensive sodium reduction policies and 73% of WHO Member States lack full range of implementation of such policies. Implementing highly cost-effective sodium reduction policies could save an estimated 7 million lives globally by 2030. It is an important component of action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing deaths from noncommunicable diseases. But today, only nine countries (Brazil, Chile, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Spain and Uruguay) have a comprehensive package of recommended policies to reduce sodium intake.

“Unhealthy diets are a leading cause of death and disease globally, and excessive sodium intake is one of the main culprits,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This report shows that most countries are yet to adopt any mandatory sodium reduction policies, leaving their people at risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health problems. WHO calls on all countries to implement the ‘Best Buys’ for sodium reduction, and on manufacturers to implement the WHO benchmarks for sodium content in food.”

A comprehensive approach to sodium reduction includes adopting mandatory policies and WHO’s four “best buy” interventions related with sodium which greatly contribute to preventing noncommunicable diseases. These

include:

Reformulating foods to contain less salt, and setting targets for the amount of sodium in foods and meals

Establishing public food procurement policies to limit salt or sodium rich foods in public institutions such as hospitals, schools, workplaces and nursing homes

Front-of-package labelling that helps consumers select products lower in sodium Behaviour change communication and mass media campaigns to reduce salt/sodium consumption

Countries are encouraged to establish sodium content targets for processed foods, in line with the WHO Global Sodium Benchmarks and enforce them though these policies. Mandatory sodium reduction policies are more effective, as they achieve broader coverage and safeguard against commercial interests, while providing a level playing field for food manufacturers. As part of the report, WHO developed a Sodium country score card for Member States based on the type and number of sodium reduction policies they have in place.

“This important report demonstrates that countries must work urgently to implement ambitious, mandatory, government-led sodium reduction policies to meet the global target of reducing salt consumption by 2025,” said Dr Tom Frieden, President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives, a not-for-profit organization working with countries to prevent 100 million deaths from cardiovascular disease over 30 years. “There are proven measures that governments can implement and important innovations, such as low sodium salts. The world needs action, and now, or many more people will experience disabling or deadly—but preventable—heart attacks and strokes.”

The global average salt intake is estimated to be 10.8 grams per day, more than double the WHO recommendation of less than 5 grams.

Sandals Prestige Awards Celebrates African Heritage

On Friday, the ninth annual Sandals Resort Prestige Awards were presented in a regal setting.

In honor of Sandals Barbados’ “kings and queens,” the Sandals Royal Barbados Ballroom was turned into an African castle.

The evening of African elegance, which had the theme “Ubuntu,” an African expression that means “I am because we are,” emphasized the great staff and their amazing service.

It was a fitting topic for the awards event as Carl Beviere, Regional Managing Director of Sandals Resort International, emphasized that the success of the widely acclaimed hotel is a result of the extraordinary efforts of their amazing team and distinctive service.

Renee Coppin, the chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), and Ian Gooding-Edghill, the minister of tourism, were among the audience members. In his opening remarks, Beviere praised all of the staff members for acting as admirable ambassadors and helping to restore Barbados’ tourism industry and social life following the inconvenience of COVID-19’s visit.

“We at Sandals are proud to be associated with the island and do our part to promote and provide employment opportunities for the people of Barbados in every sector of the resort.

“What makes tonight even more special is, there are no losers here, everyone is a winner and role model to their department and peers to emulate… “

After leaving COVID three years ago, I can declare with pride that we are back and better than ever. When I say that, I’m not just talking about Sandals Resorts; I’m talking about Barbados as a whole.

For our late chairman, Barbados has consistently been the crowning achievement. The island has long been distinguished and regarded as a desirable travel destination by tourists because of its beauty, its people, and its legacy.

We at Sandals are happy to be affiliated with the island and do all in our power to support and give Barbadians job opportunities in every area of the resort.

Their dedication has so far paid off, as every Barbadian has earned a Sandals

World-Class Team Brings Vie L’Ven to Cay Bay

Altree Developments announces a new luxury resort development comprising a five-star hotel and approximately 253 residential residences. Vie L’Ven, is set to arrive soon on the shores of Cay Bay in Sint Maarten. With a prime location and unparalleled amenities, Vie L’Ven promises an experience unlike any other. Every detail of this development has been crafted to provide residents with the ultimate luxury living, from its lush coastal landscape to its pristine interiors.

The resort residences will consist of 253 fully furnished suites, available in a range of layouts, including one, two, and three-bedroom homes ranging from 600 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft. Each suite is thoughtfully designed by Munge Studio with the option to add a private plunge pool. Additionally, all residences can access topnotch amenities and services, including discounts on superb hotel facilities, amenities, and food services.

“In French, ‘Vie’ means ‘full of life,’ while in Dutch, ‘leven’ means ‘to live’ – this duality inspired the branding of our new development, Vie L’Ven. We aimed to infuse this energetic spirit into every aspect of the project, from the stunning architecture to the unmatched amenities,” says Zev Mandelbaum, founder and CEO of Altree Developments. “Vie L’Ven represents the start of our mission to create an unforgettable experience for our guests, and we can’t wait to share our vision with the world.”

Altree Developments has collaborated with world-class architects, interior designers, and hospitality industry experts to bring Vie L’Ven to life, including HKS Architects, one of the world’s most renowned hospitality architectural firms designing both the built structure and landscape design. Studio Munge is an internationally celebrated and award-winning interior

designer whose talents will be brought to public spaces and interior finishes. The design team is supported by a team of local architects and engineers to tailor the resort to the Island’s unique style.

Vie L’Ven architecture and interior inspiration:

The architects and designers behind Vie L’Ven have drawn inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Sint Maarten, which is steeped in both Dutch and French influences. This duality is reflected in the resort’s architecture and interior design, which seamlessly blend both styles to create a unique and captivating aesthetic.

“Every suite and amenity throughout the resort is infused with this signature style, from the elegantly appointed interiors to the stunning outdoor spaces,” says Alessandro Munge, founder and design director of Studio Munge.

“The result is a harmonious and sophisticated retreat that celebrates the island’s history and culture, offering guests a modern and luxurious experience.”

Notable features include:

Exquisite five-star hotel

World-class restaurants

Numerous swimming pools

Beach bar

Private villas

Beautifully designed pier looking out into Cay Bay Spa and fitness facilities

Concierge services

With its prime location on the island, Vie L’Ven is poised to become the premier condominium hotel resort in the Caribbean.

Site construction for the sales office is underway, and interested parties can register for more information about the development on the Vie L’Ven website.

Diamond Talent award from the program’s inception, setting the standard at the absolute highest level.

As the recipient of the prestigious Diamond Team Award, Dischawn Alleyne of the landscaping department was the talk of the awards event. Dwayne Carter of Stewarding received the Platinum Team

Award, while Patricia Arthur of Wedding & Romance received the MVP Award.

The Haynesville Community Dancing Group’s rhythmic movements and sounds, as well as a well-chosen playlist by well-known DJ team Salt & Don, added to the occasion’s festive atmosphere.

See website for list of awardees.

Jamaica – Sizzla, Angus, Stowe Get Together to Help Schools

To facilitate the organization of a series of concerts in the White River Valley of Ocho Rios in St. Ann, entertainment entrepreneur Maxine Stowe and reggae artist Sizzla Kalonji have teamed up in a musical partnership with Hoseazana Ezekiel Angus, head of Livety Promotions.

The three stated they are hoping to spend a portion of the money earned from the business to improve the technical capabilities of basic and elementary schools in the public education system across the island. The inaugural event, known as Blue Hole River Splash, will take place at the Blue Hole Spring Paradise in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, on Saturday, March 11. The White River Valley in Ocho Rios, according to Stowe, “holds such a unique place In Jamaican music entertainment and event history and is community-driven,” therefore she is happy that Livety Promotions and Sizzla Kalonji have come together at this ideal time. She remarked, “I am looking forward to collaborating with Livety Promotion and Sizzla Kalonji as the focus and opportunity to impact the Ocho Rios entertainment business has been opened.”

“This is a music enterprise collaboration that

highlights and is interlinked with Sizzla’s music culture museum & entertainment complex at Judgement Yard in August Town which will be operational by year’s end,” she continued.

Music promoter Hoseazana Angus, on his part, is committed to the idea of using reggae music to improve society.

Throughout the history of Jamaican music, entertainment, and events, “The White River Valley holds a unique place in Jamaican music entertainment and event history and is community-driven,” Angus stated.

“We have to use music to liberate and elevate our people and with this venture, we have a unique opportunity to heal hearts and reach minds and use the hard cash to uplift our schools and communities,” he added.

Angus attended Newstead Primary School, which is located on the boundary of St. Mary and St. Ann when he was a youngster. As the nostalgia has worn off, he was startled to see that the school had little changed since he was a child.” I came back 20 years later and the school didn’t change, there were no computers, no computer room, and the school still had many basic needs, I was like ‘you got to be kidding me!” he exclaimed.

Documentary On Queen Nanny to Be Screened by NYU

He has promised to use the money from the next event to give 33 computers to the school in light of this.

Angus further disclosed that, in addition to the other planned events that will be hosted frequently throughout the year, he will be focusing his charitable efforts on Exchange Junior High and Ocho Rios High School. There will be additional activities on July 15, August 5, and November 18.

“I want to help as many people as possible but I want to begin at home. I will be going to individual schools in the public system and asking them: ‘what is your most urgent or important need that you have right now?’. If that is fencing or a roof, then I want to address that,” explained Angus.

Leo Douglas, a professor at New York University (NYU), will present the March 23 screening and panel debate for his documentary Reimagining Queen Nanny of the Maroons in honor of Women’s History Month and its subject Honoring Women Who Share Our Stories.

The free session will start at 12:30 pm via Zoom and is co-sponsored by the Institute of Jamaica.

The accompanying film honors the self-determination, eco-spirituality, and Afro-indigenous retentions of the previously enslaved people of Jamaica and the Diaspora, which premiered in December. Panelists and educators from the fields

of liberal studies, cultural history, and biodiversity, including Professor Jacqueline Bishop, Dr. Marcia Douglas, Dr. Tao Leigh Goffe, and Dr. Thera Edwards, will provide additional context to the production’s topics.

The Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust, Picture by Ultra, the Centre for Latin American and Caribbean Studies at NYU, the Liberal Studies’ CSI (Cultural and Social Identities), SHE (Sustainability, Health, and the Environment), and scientific specializations are all co-sponsors of the event.

Canada – 5 Jamaican Women For Global Gender Equality Campaign

Five influential Jamaican women have been selected by the Canadian High Commission in Jamaica to represent the Canadian government’s global #SheLeadsHere initiative. The initiative aims to increase the visibility of female leaders and activists who are working admirably in fields related to Canadian interests. It is being implemented in Canadian missions across the world in accordance with Canada’s pledge made at the Paris-based 2021 Generation Equality Summit. The objective is to provide women leaders and activists more access to influential stakeholders and decision-makers while amplifying their views. The five remarkable Jamaican women who joined the campaign will emphasize their contributions to the fight against sexism, gender-based violence, climate change, democracy, and women’s and girls’ empowerment. These women, who have already made substantial contributions to their communities, will collaborate with the high commission on a number

of initiatives centered on their areas of advocacy on a local, regional, and international scale. The remarkable women who will join the worldwide #SheLeadsHere cohort are: Ayesha Constable is a feminist scholar-activist who specializes on climate change and approaches her work as such.

Climate change activist and specialist in development communication Dainalyn Swaby. Women of Destiny was founded by Olivia Shaw-Lovell, a company that offers mentoring and training to women who have experienced violence.

Former Political Ombudsman and expert in conflict resolution Donna Parchment Brown has worked in both the public and commercial sectors.

With 30 years of expertise in project management, HIV program development, and implementation, Joy Crawford is the co-founder and former executive director of Eve for Life and a fervent supporter of eradicating violence

against women and girls.

At a high commission-hosted gathering on International Women’s Day, the appointment was formally announced. The women received praise from High Commissioner Tudakovic for their excellent work “the High Commission of Canada in Jamaica is proud to support these inspiring women and the work they do to make a difference in their communities. We believe that the #SheLeadsHere campaign will empower, inspire, and motivate other women to take a stand and speak out on issues that matter. We are confident that this initiative will have a lasting impact and that the women selected are true sources of motivation and leadership in their respective fields “.

In line with the International Women’s Day theme of “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” the high commission also presented Sandra Glasgow and Stacey Hines with the Women of Impact Award for their remarkable leadership and accomplish

ments in the field of technology.

Ontario, Canada, pledged to mobilize its worldwide mission network in support of continuing to advocate for the empowerment of teenage girls and young feminists at the 2021 Generation Equality Summit in Paris.

Advocates for #SheLeadsHere have been hired by more than 150 Canadian embassies. While #GenerationEquality maintains its momentum and expands its worldwide participation, Global Affairs Canada’s work is still guided by the country’s feminist foreign policy (FFP) and feminist international assistance policy (FIAP).

Sheryl Lee Ralph Gives Spellbound Speech to Essence Black Women in Hollywood

Ralph addressed the group of Black people and fellow awardees Tara Duncan, filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood of “The Woman King,” Danielle Deadwyler of “Till,” Dominique Thorne of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” and Tara Prince-Bythewood, president of Freeform and Onyx Collective. The Jamaican-American actress launched her victory speech with music. She aced her own interpretation of Dianne Reeves’ “Endangered Species,” shouting out “I am an endangered species, but I sing no victim’s song. I am a woman – a black woman – I am an artist, and I know where my voice belongs.”

Quinta Brunson, a 2022 recipient and the co-star of Ralph in “Abbott Elementary,” presented Ralph with her award as one of Essence’s Black Women in Hollywood honorees as she walked the stage in the ballroom of the Fairmont Century Plaza hotel in Los Angeles.

“Folks been saying to me all afternoon, ‘Why so late?’ This is not late. This isn’t a moment late. This is right on time,” Ralph remarked to her peers, who were listening intently. Ralph has long been a Hollywood legend, but she is only now getting her flowers. Whilst many people appear to be perplexed as to why it has taken the business so long to recognize Ralph’s abilities, the actress obviously isn’t bothered by the passing of time. In addition to winning an Emmy, a Critics’ Choice Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award for her performance as kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard in the popular ABC comedy “Abbott Elementary,” the 66-yearold actress and singer has been dominating the awards season. She has also kept the audience spellbound with her compelling statements after each victory. This one was the same.

Ralph stressed ‘self-love’ and ‘living in her truth’ even if people felt she was “too much,” among other things while remembering the tales of Black actors who came before her –Rosalind Cash and Virginia Capers – and praising upcoming young Black talent. Ralph expressed, “I’m happy to be Black as I am. I love the naps and the curls in my hair. I love my big lips. I love my wide hips. I love every single thing that makes me Black, beautiful, wonderful, talented, empowering, and encouraging. Everything about me being Black. I love it.” She added, “I am too much for some of them. She’s so loud. She’s so happy. She’s so energetic. She’s just so much. Yes, I am. And I am not enough for some of them, but guess what? Do you know who I love? Me.”

Ralph’s engaging address was only one of the afternoon’s highlights, which Boris Kodjoe hosted. The room was filled with comments from awardees and speakers during the celebration of Black women’s achievements in the entertainment industry, reminding attendees of the importance of organizations like Essence’s Black Women in Hollywood.

West Indies Team In Search of Balance

spot. While the results are not exactly what Coley was after, he hopes these tours have laid the groundwork for West Indies to plan how to approach future Test series, while juggling player availability for T20 leagues.

West Indies will use the next year to map out a management plan for their red and whiteball players to ensure they enjoy a balance between international and franchise cricket. That was the parting shot interim coach Andre Coley offered at the end of a fairly tough three months of Test cricket for his team. West Indies played in Australia, Zimbabwe and South Africa and won one of their six Test matches on the road to finish the 20212023 World Test Championship in seventh

“There’s no doubt that playing international cricket helps to develop your level of the game,” Coley said. “White-ball [cricket] may be the big money-earner but if you really look at the players who are very good at both red and white balls, they would have had a good grounding in Test cricket. It’s important for us to find that balance. I know the players want to play for the West Indies and we want our best players to play for the West Indies, but the balance is important. It’s also their livelihood. If we can, over the next 12 months, plan out with the members of the different squads how we can best manage to keep everyone as fresh as possible, for international and for franchise cricket, we will have a good chance of being more competitive.”

The situation is embodied by West Indies’ best player: Jason Holder. He became their second after Garry Sobers to take 150 wickets and score 2,500 Test runs, and has played

in all six Tests this summer as well as the SA20. Holder is also in West Indies’ ODI and T20I squads to play South Africa and will then head to the IPL, where he was signed by Rajasthan Royals. From there, Holder will likely have to feature in the 50-over World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe - West Indies are currently eighth on the points table and could be usurped by South Africa or Sri Lanka in the next few weeks - before a home Test series against India to start the 20232025 World Test Championship cycle. With that schedule in mind, Holder, in particular, needs to be carefully managed. Despite being the squad’s premier allrounder, he is unlikely to bat higher than No. 8 because of his bowling loads.

“Jason is always someone who gives his all. This morning, I knew he was on fumes,” Coley said. “He always raises his hand up and says, ‘Coach I am going to give everything today’. He continues to be a valuable member of our team because of the volume of bowling that he is required to do. So he ends up batting at No. 8 and has to have a heavy workload batting and bowling. I do believe Jason has a lot of value to add in all formats.

He is in the three squads. It becomes important for us to manage him not only physically but mentally.”

But Holder is one of those who has committed to Test cricket enough that he left the SA20 to play in Zimbabwe, and has reiterated his support for the format throughout this series. Holder questioned the Big Three’s dominance on the fixtures list but resigned himself to the lopsided schedule.

South Africa are in a similar position, with no Tests scheduled until December. They are currently exploring the possibility of an ‘A’ team tour to the West Indies over the winter and, like West Indies, are trying to find a way to fit both international and league cricket into the players’ calendar.

“I can say categorically and emphatically that the boys want to play Test cricket, every single one of them,” Shukri Conrad, South Africa’s Test coach, said. “We’ve just got to be very smart in the way we do things. We had our meetings with all these players and it’s come out that every single one of them wants to play more Test cricket. We have just got to manage them properly throughout the leagues.”

Women Referees Set Record in SCCL R16 Matches

MIAMI, Florida – In the 2023 Scotiabank Concacaf Champions League Round of 16 a new mark for women referees has been set.

By the time the Round of 16 concludes on Thursday night, a record 14 women referees will have worked across the 16 matches. The second leg matches of the Round of 16 will also see two women serve as Assessors.

Seven women referees were assigned to last week’s first leg matches, beginning with Mexico’s Katia Garcia serving as the Assistant Video Assistant Referee (AVAR) for the 0-0 draw between Alianza of El Salvador and the

Philadelphia Union last Tuesday at the Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador.

A day later at the Estadio Rommel Fernandez in Panama City, Panama, in the match between local side Tauro FC and Club Leon of Mexico, Felisha Mariscal and Kathryn Nesbitt of the United States worked as Assistant Referees during Club Leon’s 1-0 victory.

Later that night in Vancouver, British Columbia in the contest between the Vancouver Whitecaps and Real Espana of Honduras, Mexican referee Sandra Ramirez served as the Assistant Referee in Vancouver’s 5-0 victory.

On Thursday the Canadian duo of Marie-Soleil Beaudoin and Chantal Boudreau were assigned the 0-0 draw between Motagua of Honduras and Liga MX side Pachuca at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Beaudoin served as the Fourth Official, while Boudreau worked as the AVAR.

To cap the week, Jamaica’s Jassett Kerr-Wilson worked as an Assistant Referee in the 3-0 victory for Los Angeles FC over Alajuelense of Costa Rica at the Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto in Alajuela, Costa Rica. Another seven women have been assigned

matches for this week’s second legs, starting with Stephanie Yee Sing of Jamaica as Assistant Referee in the Austin FC-Violette match at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. Mexico’s Enedina Caudillo will work as Assistant Referee at the Real Espana-Vancouver Whitecaps second leg at the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, while countrywoman Diana Perez Borja will be the AVAR.

The Real Espana-Vancouver Whitecaps will also include Dianne Ferreira-James of Guyana as Assessor.