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THE ALTERNATIVE VOLUMEPERSPECTIVE 26 ISSUE 40
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HONORED WITHALIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS NAA C P C RITIC L O F AT TEM P T TO CHANGE
The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner will honor Mayor David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara The NAACP is deeply concerned Arnwine, Inez Barron, by Secretary of Housing and Sabrina Dr. RudyBen Crew, Stephen UrbanLamb, Development Carson’s Alia Jones, and the Central move Byrd, to dilute the agency’s longPark Five survivors of gross injustice standing mission. on December 18 from 6:00pm – The Department of Housing and 10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West Urban Development Act which 116th Street.
established HUD as a cabinet-level honoree chosen for agency“Each declared a purpose: “To recognition has demonstrated provide for full and appropriate exceptional and vision in consideration, at leadership the national her or his respective profession level, of the needs and interests or in some significant of the endeavor Nation’s and communities measure has contributed and of the people who live andtowards creating a more just society in this work in them.” This purpose is country,” says Black Star News sustained through the agency’s founder and publisher Milton mission to “build inclusive and Allimadi. “Obviously much work sustainable freeand needs communities to be done here from discrimination.” Secretary around the world.” Carson’s action not only threatens gala starts at 6:00pm with a HUD’sThe founding purpose but also cocktail hour to be followed by the reveals plans of regression.
dinner and awards ceremonies. There
York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.
HUD’S M ISSIO N
David Dinkins
Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their company Front Row Production, brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” with a multi-ethnic cast to Broadway. In 2016 they bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway.
Charles Rangel
was a member of the New York City Council, representing the 40th council district in Brooklyn, succeeding her mother, Una S. T. Clarke. In the current 114th Congress Clarke serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee, responsible for consumer protection, food safety, energy development, public health, communications, the environment, and interstate and international commerce.
majority. She now leads The Transformative Justice Coalition. Arnwine was for 26 years executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a State Assembly member, is now a New York City council member and a champion of education for our youth.
Honorees, the so-called Central Park 5, are collectively and individually heroes. They are survivors of one of the ugliest miscarriage of justice in New York’s history; having been railroaded and unjustly convicted for a crime they did not commit and for which they served long prison sentences ranging from seven years to 13 years before being exonerated when the actual rapist confessed. They are: Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, and Kharey Wise.
The Black Star News, which focuses “Dr. Carson’s attempt to diminish by Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is will be musical entertainment on investigative journalism, has HUD’sopera mission comes on theDouglas heels a legendary radio talk show host singer Cassandra been featured as a result of some if and executive producer, radio DJ, of the and 50th anniversary the from harmonicaofphenomenon its news scoops, on CNN, The New R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is poet, songwriter, music recording KernerWilliam Commission’s Galison.report Davidwhich Dinkins is York Daily News, The New York a leading developer and founder of artist HUD’s and producer, rapper, writer honored for Lifetime Achievement affirmed that discrimination and “Dr. Carson’s diminish mission Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s The Peebles Co., attempt the nation’sto largest and community activist. He began — he was City’s first segregation hadNew long York permeated Content magazine. African American-owned real comes on the heels of the 50th anniversary of the his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo American mayor and also much African of American Life and estate firm with $3.5 billion worth Past Black Star News honorees at age affirmed 15. For overthat 30 years, he’s welcomed Nelsonthe Mandela Kerner Commission’s report which continues to threaten future to the of properties under development have included: Gil Noble (Like It been a talk show host at WBLS and city after his release in 1990. of every American; and at a time discrimination segregation had long permeated or management —and he was one Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad WLIB radio in New York City. He when Rep. the Trump administration Charles Rangel, also honored of the pioneering developerswho housing, and foreclosures. O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, much of American Life….” also has a Friday night radio talk seeksfor to cut billions of dollars has Lifetime Achievement, helped turn around and revitalize Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), show on WBAI. The NAACP Economic in housing for low-income - Marvin J. Owens, Jr. servedaid in Congress since 1971. He is the once-blighted Anacostia Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder Department’s work enhances the families,” said NAACP’s Sr. medal for a recipient of The Bronze NAACP’s Sr. neighborhood in Washington, D.C.Director of Economic Programs Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William of World of Money, is a champion capacity of African Americans and helping save soldiers behind enemy Director of Economic Programs, A champion of African-American Pollard (Medgar Evers College), of financial literacy for youth-she line during the Korean War. other under-served groups through Marvin J. Owens, Jr. economic empowerment is NAACP recognizes the continued progress in AmericaPeebles’ The Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba teaches knowledge about handling financial economic education; contemplating possible run for NYC Rep. Yvette Clarkethe is a Democratic importance of an inclusive rests in the hands ofacommunities Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna Despite these attempts, money, budgeting and planning. individual and community asset mayor in 2017. member of the US House of economy and economic policies across the country that continue Fountain (Columbia University), promise of discrimination-free initiatives; and Dancy Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one ofbuilding Representatives Lillian Robertsdiversity (DC37), Desiree the challenging to push their elected leaders to civil that address Honoree Barbara Arnwine, practices lives on in thefrom FairNew th inclusion in business hiring, the nation’s leading educators. He’s York whose 9 district (New York Times), Gregcareer Floyd (Local realities facing our country preserve programs to of rights lawyer, isdesigned a champion Housing Act which has the covers advancement and procurement; of central Brooklyn. Before help disadvantaged 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic including poverty, lack of jobs communities centralmuch objective of prohibiting financialand banking entering Congress in 2007, Action Network), many others. of The City University minoritypolicies groups — the emerging and disproportionate high of New and monitoring that make race discrimination in sales and she and promote practices. unemployment, lack of affordable economic inclusion a reality. rentals of housing. The hope of
INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS
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CULTURE
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The 100 students were selected from thousands of applicants nationwide for this once-in-alifetime mentoring program that is designed to assist them in identifying and pursuing their dreams. The students, along with
a parent or guardian, received an all-expense-paid trip to Disney to participate in the program, which features a series of career-oriented workshops and leadership seminars. Celebrity participants include Sunny Hostin from ABC’s “The View,” television personality Steve Harvey, national recording artist Ne-Yo, former NFL great and “Dancing with the Stars’’ winner Emmitt Smith and actors Jussie Smollett (Fox’s “Empire’’), Miles Brown (ABC’s “Black-ish’’) and Marsai Martin (ABC’s “Blackish’’).
Co Op 3 mp en su le m to te m de up er gr se to e ss e on & io e ns no ye ar nav de of ai g la stu re bl dy e e st in u de th re nt e s mo Ca M nt lc ic hs ul ro us b An Ch at em iolo om gy is try y Ph & ys Ph ic ys s io & lo M gy or e
One hundred teens from across the nation participated in Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence magazine -- a four-day, immersive and transformational mentoring program at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida which concluded this weekend.
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NE WS March Against Poverty to Commemorate the Legacy Of REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING In light of the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's assassination, the social justice advocacy organization Love Beyond Walls in partnership with the Center for Civil and Human Rights launched the second March Against Poverty. Love Beyond Walls Founder and Executive Director Terence Lester will travel on foot from Dr. King’s birth city in Atlanta, GA to the historic Lorraine Motel in Memphis, TN. The 386 mile journey commemorated Dr. King’s legacy and bring awareness to fight against systemic poverty, social injustice and the homeless epidemic still present in America today. Love Beyond Walls along with the NAACP, Georgia Alliance for Social Change, Wheat Street Baptist Church and Atlanta influencers will host an official send off and press conference at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights on Saturday, March 3rd at 6:00pm. Before Dr. King was killed, he
planned his next initiative, “The Poor People’s Campaign.” Dr. King believed that the next step towards equality was to eradicate a system that even today keeps members of society enslaved to poverty. In 2016, Love Beyond Walls launched a national campaign to raise awareness for those fighting against systemic poverty. Executive Director, Terence Lester walked from Atlanta, GA to Washington D.C, over 700 miles to bring attention to poverty in the U.S. The campaign, March Against Poverty 2016, gathered thousands together and videos of the campaign reached over 5 million views.
on the millions of people across the nation from all walks of life and nationalities who experience the harsh realities of homelessness and poverty. It is time for the next generation to pick up the baton and we are on the frontlines to leading the charge,” says Terence Lester, Founder and Executive Director of Love Beyond Walls. The march kicks of on Saturday, March 3rd at 6:00pm at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and will feature remarks from city officials and civil rights leaders.
Love Beyond Walls is a 501c(3) nonprofit based in Atlanta, Georgia. They’ve worked with hundreds of people transitioning out of homelessness and poverty. For more information on the event and campaign please visit marchagainstpoverty.com.
From the campaign, Love Beyond Walls created a documentary entitled, “Voiceless” that has been viewed by thousands, aired on AIB network, and started a national conversation on systemic poverty. “This march is a testament to the legacy of Dr. King and to shed light
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Owner/Publisher Executive Editor Editor-In-Chief Dr. Teresa Taylor Williams Assistant to Publisher, Administrative Zoie Williams International Correspondent Ann Brown Travel Editor Jim Weaver Contributing Editor Justin Williams
The NAACP, the nation’s foremost civil rights organization, recently hosted a press conference in opposition to President Trump’s nomination of attorney, Thomas A. Farr, to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina. NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson; NAACP North Carolina State Conference President Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Spearman; President of the Wendell Wake NAACP Charles Upchurch; President of the New Hanover County NAACP Deborah Maxwell; NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund Policy Director Todd Cox; Congresswoman
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Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and other members of Congress were joined by about 50 members from the NAACP North Carolina State Conference at the press conference to speak out against the egregious nomination. The NAACP strongly opposed this nomination. Throughout his career, Mr. Farr has consistently stood on the wrong side of civil rights issues and worked to intimidate, misinform, or otherwise disenfranchise AfricanAmerican voters. Following the press conference, NAACP leadership took meetings with legislators on the Hill to continue to mobilize support against the nomination.
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Online Editorial Director Rachel Breton Hamlett Art Director Jessica R. Doughty Emeritus Office & Subscription Manager Sophie Taylor Social Media Zoie A. Williams Writers Ezra Mechaber Deardra Shuler Jim Weaver Anastasia Williams Justin Williams Teresa Williams
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VOLUME 28 ISSUE 8
March 15, 2018 - March 21, 2018
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COMMENTARY FEWER WOULD DIE IF THEY HAD KNOWN BY ADORA NWEZE
PRESIDENT OF THE NAACP FLORIDA AREA STATE CONFERENCE Floridians are getting sick, some more than others. For a long time now, the place people move to for retirement – to end their days in rest and leisure – is ending their days quicker. Their health is ailing faster in Florida and sometimes they’re dying faster, too. I’m not talking about the flu epidemic, but Lord, I do pray for those people. No, if what I was talking about was flu-like, Florida would have pneumonia. Who is most impacted by this epidemic? People who are already ill or have weak immune systems, people who cannot afford to leave the area and escape to better (for now) climates, and people of color who are at risk because of environmental racism. We call these groups frontline communities because they are the ones at the forefront of the problem but who are also taking action to get things done.
of climate change, they are also being left out of the information loop. Emergency planners are not getting the voice and knowledge of the Black community, the low-income people, the elderly, and others before they do their evacuation plans and other kinds of climate change planning. So people are not only sick, but don’t have the information about how to escape circumstances like flooding, or what they need to do when there’s a hurricane or a tornado.
devices stop working. More asthma attacks and medical emergencies means more hospital visits that some Floridians cannot afford. So they won’t go.
And Florida is getting hotter. Make NO mistake about that. These high temperatures mean more fires, bigger hurricanes, more frequent tornadoes, and the list goes on. Climate change caused the sea level to rise and flooded the roads in Key Largo and Big Pine Keys. The flooding got so bad that the county officials are looking into raising the roads – one of the first road projects in the Keys in response to the future impacts of sea level rise from climate change.
out of the high waters.
And Floridians will die. Think you’re safe? Climate change, while it impacts some people more than others, ultimately impacts absolutely everybody. No one, and I mean NO ONE, can escape it. No matter how many sandbags you can make or how many SUVs you can rent to get yourself
Why are Floridians getting sick? Because of the effects of climate change. The health problems from climate change are real. So real that Florida doctors are seeing the effects every day and are taking it upon themselves to do something about it. The Miami Herald wrote about the Florida Clinicians on Climate Action, a group of doctors who realize that not everyone knows a climate scientist, but they do know a doctor. These doctors explain that “Heat worsens asthma, heart and lung disorders and even mental illnesses. Rising seas push floodwater polluted by leaky sewage pipes into neighborhoods. A changing climate helps spread mosquito-bourne diseases (think Zika), and research shows it makes hurricanes stronger and more common.” They are working to make sure that “… everyone knows about the impacts of climate change and how to protect themselves, all the way from making sure high school coaches know how to teach their athletes the warning signs of heat exhaustion to explaining the benefit of community cooling centers in lowincome neighborhoods to politicians.” At the same time Florida frontline communities are getting sicker because
These high temperatures also mean that people will get sicker faster and more often. People with asthma are going to suffer more and some won’t be able to afford to turn their air conditioning on to where it needs to be for their health so they’ll be having more asthma attacks. And some who depend on electricity for life-saving oxygen and other medical devices will be more at risk for health emergencies when the storms come and knock out their electricity and their
Just the other day, Dahr Jamail at Truthout wrote an article about what climate change means for our kids and grandkids. “Many of the humans being born right now will be alive in 2100. They will live in the conditions we are creating for them today: In a world where it will likely be impossible to feed the majority of the projected 9 billion people on the planet by 2050, water wars will be the new oil wars (the US military has already been practicing for water wars for years), major coastal cities will have long since flooded, and droughts and wildfires will have become year-round events.” This is not some apocalypse movie, this is real life. We cannot afford to debate about climate change for one more second. No. Climate change is real, it is making Floridians sicker faster, and it is destroying the potential for our future generations to thrive as we have done.
We have to act NOW. I am the President of the NAACP Florida Area State Conference and the Chair of the NAACP Emergency Management Taskforce. And, I am calling on everyone to get involved. I am leading the environmental and climate justice work for Florida’s communities of color and low-income people. Just last month I organized a training with, FEMA, the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), and Citizen Corp to train 57 representatives from 25 Florida NAACP branches to not only be Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members but to also be trained NAACP’s Human and Civil Rights in Emergency Management Monitoring. Now, every county in Florida has an NAACP representative who they can partner with so that they get their climate change emergency plans more in tune with the people they serve. Plus, more NAACP members can now provide basic medical care and attention to their neighbors and communities in a time of a hurricane or other event. I’m calling on every other NAACP State Conference President nationwide to follow Florida’s lead. Because this isn’t just a Florida problem. Every state has environmental and climate change issues – whether its wildfires, blizzards, droughts, or flooding. We need to be prepared for more heat, less drinkable water, bigger hurricanes, more storms, more asthma attacks and cardiovascular diseases, etc. But most importantly, we have got to take care of each other! We can’t be around destroying each other. We have to work together so that the next generation can profit just like how we profited from the last generation. If we join together NOW, we can make plans that will benefit everyone in the community, not just a few. We’ll get stronger, wiser, and safer as a family. Fewer would have died if they had only known in time. We don’t want that to be our future as much as it has been our past. Join us.
P REV ENTING GUN VI OLE N C E
Gun violence is of a major concern to our nation, and especially to the communities served and represented by the NAACP. Curbing that violence, at every opportunity, is a major goal. Roughly 50% of gun-related deaths in our country in 2015 were African American men, despite the fact that we make up just 6% of the U.S. population. The leading cause of death among African American teens, ages 15 to
4 | NewYorkTrendnyc
19 in 2008 and 2009 was gunrelated homicide. African American children and teens were less than 15% of the total child population in 2008 and 2009 but accounted for 45% of all child- and teen-related gun deaths.
Roughly 50% of gun-related deaths in our country in 2015 were African American men… Given the disproportionate damage
gun violence is having on our communities, the NAACP has advocated for a number of sane, sensible laws which will help eliminate or decrease the damage and death caused by gun violence. We strongly support several sensible proposals which together will do a lot to help keep dangerous firearms off our streets and out of the hands of those who should not have access to them.
March 15, 2018 - March 21, 2018
To review those proposals, please take a few minutes to read the Issue Brief (http://www.naacp.org/ wp-content/uploads/2018/03/ GUN-VIOLENCE.Issue-Brief.pdf), which provides a brief summary of the problem, outlines measures supported by the NAACP, and then goes on to describe the proposals in more depth.
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COMMENTARY
WOMEN ON THE MOVE AWARDS TO HONOR WOMEN OF COLOR ONYX Magazine’s third annual Women on the Move (WOTM), presented by Title Sponsor Herzing University and Presenting Membership Orlando Health will recognize Florida’s most impactful and influential women during an awards luncheon to be held on Thursday, March 15, 2018 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Alfond Inn, Winter Park, Florida. In keeping with the National Women’s History Month’s theme, “Nevertheless, She Persisted,” this year’s WOTM event will highlight women who have shattered the glass ceiling in their professions and persevered against all odds. ONYX Magazine is excited to collaborate with its sponsors to showcase these phenomenal women. They are trailblazers leading major businesses to succeed on national and international levels in several professional disciplines. “These powerful and innovative achievers are contributors to a
thriving economy every day,” said Richard “Rich” E. Black, ONYX Magazine’s Publisher, CEO and Editor-in-chief. “Our sponsors and other supporters are pivotal to making Women on the Move one of the most prestigious events to recognize women of color across Florida.” ONYX Magazine’s Women on the Move will give a special Woman of the Year salute to Mary Ann Carroll. Carroll is the only woman among the 26 Original Florida Highwaymen inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame. The Florida Highwaymen is a group of self-taught AfricanAmerican landscape artists who painted during the 1950s to the 1980s. During this period galleries would not accept the art of painters who had not been professionally trained. So, the Florida Highwaymen sold their art along the highways and from door-to-door throughout the state.
It is with great honor we recognize special guest Honorable Justice Julia Sarkodie-Mensah from Botswana, Africa. She has practiced for 32 years as a partner in one of the largest law firms in Botswana before her appointment as judge of the High Court of Botswana. Leading this year’s event are Chair Deidre Parker, President, Parker Realty Group and Co-chair Nancy Port Schwalb, the President of Schwalb Public Relations. The awards luncheon will be hosted by Carolyn Fennell, the Senior Director of Public Affairs and Community Relations at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. For further information about ONYX Magazine’s 2018 WOTM, contact Marianne Eggleston at 855-9866699 x5 / c 261-256-8060 or Nancy Port Schwalb, Schwalb Public Relations at 407.418.2426 / c 407.592.5921 e Nschwalb@ bellsouth.net.
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It was announced today that the ICFF has nominated actress Lunden De'Leon (We're the Millers, Sweet Home Carolina) "Best Actress in a Leading Role" for her role in the film "Pure Justice". In Pure Justice, De'Leon portrays a well-known attorney accused of illegal and unethical practices. The film is directed by Vickie Adams. Best known for her role as Joanne Mbutu on the hit television series "Vital Signs", De'Leon has starred in over 50 television shows and movies including the blockbuster hit "We're the Millers", 20th Century Fox movie "The Ladies Room", the HBO film "Kickin Chicken", "Cryptz", "Faux Pas,"
The Lake House", "12 Dog Days Till Christmas", the action thriller "Fury" and the award winning drama "Somebody's Child" just to name a few. Most recently, the South Carolina native starred opposite actress Heather McComb ("CSI", "Ray Donovan") in the coming of age movie "Sweet Home Carolina". The International Christian Film Festival (ICFF) will be held May 2-5 2018 in Orlando Florida. The festival screens 165 features, short films and documentaries in three days. Honors are given for categories including best picture, best actor, script, most inspirational and audience choice.
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HEALTHIER SOUL FOOD COOKBOOK "Go Red" Heart Health Month
The Healthier Traditions Cookbook: Soul Food, a healthy twist on traditional Southern dishes, features 17 classic recipes and is available for complimentary download today. The cookbook, a collaboration of Transamerica Center for Health Studies® (TCHS) with the Association of Black Women Physicians (ABWP), helps maintain the integrity of these soul food dishes, while identifying easy steps people can take to enjoy healthier versions. Each recipe was adapted and tested by two nutritionists to ensure an increase in nutritional value and decrease in caloric value.
According to the American Heart Association, “heart disease is the No. 1 killer for all Americans, and stroke is also a leading cause of death. As frightening as those statistics are, the risks of getting those diseases are even higher for African-Americans. High blood pressure, obesity and diabetes are the most common conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.” The American Heart Association highlights more startling statistics: Cardiovascular diseases kill nearly 50,000 African-American women annually. Of African-American women ages 20 and older, 49 percent have heart diseases. Only 1 in 5 African-American women believes she is personally at risk. Only 52 percent of AfricanAmerican women are aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Only 36 percent of AfricanAmerican women know that heart disease is their greatest health risk. Recipes in the cookbook include Red Beans and Rice, Gumbo, Pan-fried Catfish, Smothered 8 | NewYorkTrendnyc
with Transamerica Center for Health Studies that help to spur healthier eating choices,” said Sherril Rieux, M.D., from the Association of Black Women Physicians. “Our patients are always asking for ways to eat healthier, and this cookbook was a great way to highlight the health benefits of dishes that have brought happy memories to families for generations.” The Healthier Traditions cookbook complements other ABWP initiatives like its wellness workshops, which are organized, implemented and facilitated by physician volunteers. The series is offered in community forums to educate families about diabetes, hypertension, asthma, HIV/ AIDS, obesity, and general health and wellness issues. These workshops serve as a bridge between health providers to empower individuals to be more active participants in their own health care. Pork Chops, and Peach Cobbler, and have a breakdown of the calories, fat, cholesterol, sodium, carbohydrate, fiber and protein content of the dish. In addition, how-to videos that highlight the preparation of some of the dishes are available on TCHS’s website and YouTube channel. “Transamerica Center for Health Studies is proud to partner with the Association of Black Women Physicians to create a soul food cookbook that increases the nutritional value of these recipes while keeping the heartiness of Southern favorites,” said Hector De La Torre, executive director of TCHS. “This is the third cookbook we have prepared and, consistent with our values, these recipes help to improve health and wellness. Soul food and Southern cuisine have a history as rich as
their flavors, and this cookbook includes interesting facts about soul food history, in addition to helpful nutrition facts.” With the impact of obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes on the African-American community, the recipes are both nutritious and flavorful, and can help to empower healthier choices around the dinner table. For example, nutritionists make simple substitutions like swapping out regular flour for whole wheat flour in cornbread, and replacing bacon while keeping the smoky flavor with paprika in collard greens. “The Association of Black Women Physicians empowers Black Women to lead in health and wellness for ourselves and the community through premiere educational programs, resources, and partnerships like this one
March 15, 2018 - March 21, 2018
TCHS and ABWP remain committed to empowering consumers to achieve the best outcomes in their personal health and wellness. Please visit the TCHS website to download this cookbook for free and browse our previous cookbooks, American Classic and Traditional Mexican. Transamerica Center for Health Studies ® (TCHS) is a division of Transamerica Institute, ® a national non-profit, private foundation. TCHS informs the national healthcare conversation by bringing clarity to the complex decision-making regarding health coverage and personal health and wellness. TCHS is focused on empowering consumers and employers so that they can achieve the best value and protection from their health coverage, as well as the best outcomes in their personal health and wellness. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
HE ALTH
SECOND HAND SMOKE Affects Latino, Black and Young Adults The Health Department has released a new Vital Signs report on secondhand smoke exposure and smoke-free housing policies in New York City. Secondhand smoke exposure is the involuntary exposure to smoke from a burning cigarette or from another person exhaling smoke from a cigarette. According to the data, 44 percent of adult New Yorkers in 2016 reported being exposed to cigarette smoking while in their home – whether the source of smoke was from another apartment, house, or from the outside. The rate of secondhand smoke exposure was assessed by asking individuals if they smelled cigarette smoke. Secondhand smoke exposure was found to be more prevalent among Latino adults, Black adults and those in high-poverty neighborhoods. Latino adults (56 percent) were more likely to report being exposed to secondhand smoke from the outside than other nonLatino racial/ethnic groups. Black adults reported exposure in their home at higher rates than White and Asian/Pacific Islander adults (44 percent versus 38 percent and 35 percent, respectively). Additionally, New Yorkers living in medium-, high- and very-high poverty neighborhoods were more likely to report exposure to secondhand smoke at home than residents living in low-poverty neighborhoods. The Health Department’s annual Community Health Survey provided data for the report. “There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke, and these troubling data show that too many New Yorkers are being exposed to that danger – especially in communities of color,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “Exposure to secondhand smoke can put families at higher risk of stroke and other tobaccorelated illnesses. We continue to encourage all New Yorkers to adopt smoke-free policies in their homes in order to protect their health and the health of their family.” The Vital Signs report also examines smoke-free housing in New York City. Forty percent of New Yorkers living in multiunit housing reported living in a building that prohibits smoking,
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although White and Black adults were less likely than Latino and Asian/Pacific Islander adults to report they lived in a building with a smoke-free policy. In 2013, 77 percent of New Yorkers also had an “in-home smoke free policy,” meaning smoking was not allowed in their residence, up from 62 percent in 2002.
Additional Vital Signs data highlights: New Yorkers in multi-unit housing
(three or more units) were more likely to report being exposed to cigarette smoke from outside than those in one- or two-family homes. Latino and Black adults and younger adult New York City residents were more likely to report being exposed to secondhand smoke than White and Asian/ Pacific Islander adults and those ages 65 and older. In 2016, 40 percent of adult New Yorkers living in multi-unit buildings reported smoking was prohibited in all areas. In 2013, three-quarters of adult New Yorkers (77 percent) reported they had a smoke-free policy at home – meaning smoking was not allowed anywhere inside. Nonsmokers were more likely than smokers to have such a policy (81 percent versus 55 percent). Among smokers and nonsmokers, the percentage implementing in-home smoke-free policies has increased steadily
between 2002 and 2013 (from 29 percent to 55 percent for smokers; from 71 percent to 81 percent for non-smokers).
In addition to the Vital Signs report, the Health Department published a Health Bulletin this month, which educates New Yorkers on the harms of secondhand smoke at home. The Health Bulletin also provides information about making a home smoke-free, including tips on how to implement a smoke-free
policy in a building. "It is troubling that so many New Yorkers are still being exposed to the dangerous effects of secondhand smoke in their homes and during their daily routines," said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. "While we have implemented measures to curtail New Yorker's exposure, such as the laws I passed to prohibit smoking by school and after-school entrances, we still have to continue working to provide New Yorkers with the resources and support to protect themselves from secondhand smoke and help those who smoke to quit." “Too many New Yorkers are exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes. DOHMH data illuminates a clear danger to public health, particularly in communities of color. More action must be taken to help New Yorkers curb smoking habits, especially in their homes,” said Council Member
March 15, 2018 - March 21, 2018
Ritchie Torres.
In August 2017, Mayor de Blasio signed a series of bills to help reduce the number of smokers in New York City. These bills put New York City at the forefront of smoking and tobacco control by: (1) raising the minimum prices for all tobacco products, including cigarettes, and imposing a new 10 percent local tax on tobacco products other than cigarettes; (2) capping and reducing through
attrition the number of tobacco retailers citywide; (3) creating a retail license for e-cigarettes and capping the number of e-cigarette retailers; (4) increasing the fee for a cigarette retail dealer license; (5) requiring all residential buildings to create a smoking policy and disclose it to both current and prospective tenants; (6) prohibiting smoking and the use of e-cigarettes in common areas in multiple dwellings with fewer than ten units; and (7) banning the sale of tobacco products at pharmacies. In New York City, it is illegal to smoke in common areas in multiunit buildings. By August 2018, multi-unit buildings in New York City must also have a policy on smoking and disclose that policy to tenants and prospective tenants. Although this does not mandate smoke-free housing, it empowers people to make informed decisions to live in smoke-free buildings. ok.com/nycquits.
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HUMAN RIGHT S
S U IT F IL E D AG A I N ST MY RT L E BE ACH FOR RACIALLY DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES
The National NAACP, the Myrtle Beach Branch of the NAACP and three individuals filed a complaint and motion for preliminary injunction in U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina alleging that the City of Myrtle Beach and the City of Myrtle Beach Police Department discriminate against AfricanAmerican tourists. The complaint alleges that there are stark differences in the treatment of African-American bikers during Black Bike Week compared to the treatment of majority-White bikers during Harley Week. Both events occur in May with Black Bike Week held over the Memorial Day Weekend and with Harley Week ending a week before Black Bike Week starts. The two events attract a similar number of visitors to the Myrtle Beach area. According to the complaint, the City of Myrtle Beach and its police department impose no formal traffic plan during Harley Week. However, during Black Bike Week they restrict the main two-way thoroughfare, Ocean Boulevard, to a single lane of southbound traffic. All vehicles
entering Ocean Boulevard at night are forced to travel through a 23-mile loop with just one exit. On Saturday night of Black Bike Week, it could take over six hours to complete the loop.
The complaint also alleges that the City deploys far more police officers during Black Bike Week than Harley Week and that the police officers utilize overly aggressive policing tactics against African Americans. As described in the complaint, the City seeks to make Black Bike Week sufficiently unpleasant for the mostly African-American motorcyclists, hoping that they stop attending the event and that it ceases to exist. The NAACP believes the city and police are attempting to deter African Americans tourists and bikers from visiting Myrtle Beach. “All citizens are entitled to equal protection under the law and have the rights of expression, assembly and association,” said NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson. “The City’s traffic plan and overly aggressive policing tactics during Black Bike Week violate those fundamental constitutional rights. The
Anson Asaka, NAACP National Office Associate General Counsel, speaking at a news conference in Myrtle Beach on Tuesday about the lawsuit.
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Association will continue to use the courts to fight such blatant discrimination.” In 2003, the NAACP successfully challenged the City’s previous traffic plan for Black Bike Week. In 2005, the district court granted the NAACP’s motion for preliminary injunction, finding that differences in the traffic plans between Black Bike Week and Harley Week were likely motivated by race and in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution. Shortly after this decision, a settlement agreement was entered requiring the City to impose the same traffic plans for Black Bike Week and Harley Week. However, in 2015, after that agreement expired, the City imposed a new traffic plan even more restrictive than the 2003 plan. “The Court found that the earlier plan was likely motivated by race and now just a few years after the consent order expired, the City has come back with an even more restrictive plan; it is clear that the City is once again discriminating against the African Americans who attend Black Bike Week,” said Reed Colfax of Relman, Dane & Colfax PLLC, which represents the Plaintiffs. “During annual Black Bike Week, the City of Myrtle Beach and its Police Department resort to behavior that subjects African Americans to rules and restrictions that are clearly racially motivated,” said Kristen Clarke, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights
March 15, 2018 - March 21, 2018
Under Law. “This draconian set of rules and restrictions don’t apply during Harley Week, the Country Music Festival or during other major public events. By subjecting African Americans who travel to Myrtle Beach for Black Bike Week to second-class treatment, officials are resorting to conduct from a bygone era. With our lawsuit, we are turning to the courts to protect the rights and dignity of those seeking equal treatment under the law.” Black Bike Week is the one time of the year when the majority of the tourists in Myrtle Beach are African American. It is also the only time of the year when the city and police impose such an obtrusive traffic plan for tourists. Such tactics are noticeably absent during the weeks of Spring Break, or Fourth of July celebrations. “The City’s traffic plan does not facilitate traffic,” said Myrtle Beach Branch NAACP President Mickey James. “It does not promote public safety. Unfortunately, it is designed to discourage African-Americans from attending Black Bike Week.” “White bikers do not have to go through that, so why should we?” said individual plaintiff Simuel Jones, a Black Bike Week attendee and former U.S. Marine. Relman, Dane & Colfax, PLLC, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Law Office of Peter Wilborn, and the NAACP Office of the General Counsel represent the plaintiffs. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
END NO TE S
Enjoy Fun in the Sun Using FL511 Spring Break is finally here! Whether you’re headed to the beach, or any one of Florida’s spring break destinations, it is important to remember to stay safe on the roads during the travel rush. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you hit the road: Plan out your route before you hit the road. Always wear a seat belt. Slow down and be aware of road and traffic conditions when entering work zones. Take regular breaks and rotate drivers during long trips to avoid driving while fatigued. Don’t drink and drive. Never text and drive. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) encourages you to use the Florida 511 Traveler Information System before hitting the road to stay up-to-date on crashes, congestion and construction along their route while enjoying your vacation. The Florida 511 system provides information on all of Florida’s interstates, toll roads and other major metropolitan roadways. There are several ways for drivers to receive traffic updates from FL511. Travelers can call 511 toll free, visit FL511.com, follow one of the statewide, regional or roadway-specific feeds on Twitter, or download the free FL511 app on iTunes or Google Play. The new Florida 511 app provides door-to-door directions with travel times and alternate
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routes on most roadways throughout the state. The app’s latest feature, Drive Mode, allows users to get a quick view of local incidents and travel speeds. Drive Mode also provides users with up to three routes and travel times to their destinations, in addition to audible alerts of incidents occurring along their route. The Florida 511 Traveler Information System from the Florida Department of Transportation is the state’s official source for real-time traffic and travel information. The FL511 app, website, twitter feeds and toll free number provides information on Florida’s interstates, toll roads and other major metropolitan roadways, allowing drivers to avoid unnecessary delays, as well as receive updates on crashes, congestion, construction and more. For more information, please visit www.FL511.com.
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