Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will. Find out just what people will submit to and you have found out the exact amount of injustice and wrong which will be imposed upon them and these will continue till they have resisted either with words or blows or with both. The limits of tyrants are prescribed by
whom they suppress. —Fredrick
Douglass (1849)NNPA NEWSWIRE — The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) said their results show that new ways of doing things are needed. JAMA looked at statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which showed that when the coronavirus pandemic hit the world in 2020, the number of deaths and years of potential life lost went up.
By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Senior NationalNon-Hispanic Black mothers are more than three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related problem than non-Hispanic white moms. (Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA)
A new study shows that after some progress, the number of deaths and years of possible life lost among America’s Black population stopped going down and then started going up again.
The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) said their results show that new ways of doing things are needed.
JAMA looked at statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which showed that when the coronavirus pandemic hit the world in 2020, the number of deaths and years of potential life lost went up.
Compared to white people, 1.63 million more Black people died than they should have.
Experts said that’s the equivalent of 80 million years of potential life during the study period, which took place from
1999 to 2020.
“After a period of progress in reducing disparities, improvements stopped, and differences between the Black population and the white population got worse in 2020,” JAMA experts wrote.
Because of the pandemic, experts stated that years of growth had ended. They said the pandemic affected Black Americans more than other groups.
Herman Taylor, one of the study’s authors and head of the cardiovascular research institute at the Morehouse School of Medicine, said, “The study is very important for about 1.63 million reasons.”
“Real lives are being lost. Real families are missing parents and
grandparents,” Taylor declared. “Babies and their mothers are dying. We have been screaming this message for decades.”
Clyde Yancy, an author of the study and chief of cardiology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, told reporters that high death rates among Black people have less to do with their genes.
However, it has more to do with the country’s long history of discrimination, which has hurt generations of Black people’s chances of getting an education, a good place to live, and a good job.
Yancy said that Black areas redlined in the 1930s, meaning that mortgages and other investments were too “high risk” for them, are still poorer and sicker today.
Yancy remarked that there were also more COVID infections and deaths in ZIP codes that used to be redlined.
“It’s very clear that we have an uneven distribution of health,” Yancy said. “We’re talking about the freedom to be healthy.”
In 2021, non-Hispanic white Americans could expect to live to 76 years old, but non-Hispanic Black Americans could only hope to live to 71 years old.
A big reason for this difference is another study that showed that non-Hispanic Black babies are 2.5 times more likely to die before their first birthday than non-Hispanic white babies.
Non-Hispanic Black mothers are more than three times more likely to die from a pregnancyrelated problem than nonHispanic white moms.
endurance those
New Legal Standards: California Takes Steps to Crack Down on Housing Discrimination...continued most populated cities like Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oakland and Sacramento.
The California Department of Justice is encouraging all municipalities in the state to reevaluate their crime-free housing policies, invoking civil rights laws and fair housing regulations.
“I recognize that leaders at the local level are on the front lines of ensuring public safety for their residents, and, separately, that California law provides discretion to local jurisdictions to enact and enforce nuisance laws that are non-discriminatory and otherwise consistent with California law,” Bonta stated in a letter to California's cities and counties.
“Regardless of when these policies were adopted, local jurisdictions have the responsibility to ensure that they comport with state and federal law, and not to implement or enforce them in a discriminatory manner,” he continued.
While there are various types of these programs across the state, most are designed to give landlords a way to deny or evict tenants who have had some interaction with the criminal justice system.
In some cases, landlords do not need a conviction or an arrest to activate these policies.
According to the website of the Murrieta police department –a town of about 100,000 people in Riverside County – crime-free housing helps law enforcement manage criminal activity.
“The police cannot solve crime problems alone,” the website reads. “Neither can the management or residents of rental properties. However, by working together, the end result
has been the most successful approach to crimes in rental communities.”
AG Bonta isn't the only state official with concerns about the alleged discriminatory nature of crime-free housing policies.
Assembly Bill (AB) 1418, introduced by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), would prohibit crime-free housing policies statewide.
“Every Californian wants to live in a safe neighborhood, yet for too many years, 'crimefree' housing policies have not reduced crime, increased housing availability or increased housing affordability," McKinnor stated in a press release. “AB 1418 will end these harmful policies that have made it harder for Californians to find a safe place to call home and eliminate laws that have resulted in further housing segregation across the state.”
This bill was first introduced in February and is currently in committee.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) states that even if a policy appears neutral, it may still violate the law if it has “discriminatory effects” without a reasonable and legal justification.
According to the Attorney General's office, these regulations must apply to California state law.
Last December, the U.S. Department of Justice secured its first settlement banning crimefree housing in San Bernardino County and Hesperia.
This agreement requires San Bernardino County and the city of Hesperia to spend about $1 million, mostly to compensate residents and tenants negatively impacted by crime-free policies.
Aldon Thomas Stiles | California Black Media
being discriminatory.
On April 21, California Attorney General (AG) Rob Bonta announced new guidance for crime-free housing policies statewide, pointing out that the former rules disproportionately impacted “people of color, survivors of domestic violence, people with disabilities, and justice-involved individuals,” according to the press release from the Attorney General's office.
legal standards and procedures to proactively prevent discriminatory housing practices within localities,” Bonta continued. “Tenants have rights under the Fair Employment and Housing Act and other California laws that protect against many forms of housing discrimination, and this guide aims to ensure we are eliminating barriers to housing and promoting equal opportunities.”
Highlighted by the media throughout each year are reports of courtroom judgements or settlements reached by county officials resulting from inappropriate actions by deputies or police, many resulting from the inappropriate use of force. Credit: Shutterstock. com
use of force scenarios.
Since the early 1990s, landlords and managers nationwide have partnered with law enforcement to implement “crime-free housing” policies. These policies aim to reduce criminal activities such as
drug use and gang activity. In California, crime-free housing has become increasingly controversial. Advocates and some state officials have been railing against these policies for
“In California, we’re taking action to end housing discrimination and foster diverse communities,” stated Bonta.
“The statewide guidance issued today presents clear
Across California, 147 cities and counties have adopted revised policies aimed at eliminating discrimination, including some of the state's
Last week we learned that Riverside County agreed to a $400,000 settlement in response to a claim filed by parent Daniel Silva resulting from a use of force incident against his son in September 2018 who was a high school freshman when the incident occurred.
Sprinkled in the news throughout each year are reports of settlements made by county officials resulting from inappropriate actions by deputies or police, many resulting from
In 2022, the Washington Post published an investigative report looking at the hidden billiondollar cost of repeated police misconduct.
The report examined data for nearly 40,000 payments at 25 of the country’s largest police and sheriff’s departments–Riverside was among them–and found that in the course of the recent decade, more than $3.2 billion was spent
Save Our Water
10 Everyday Habits for Water Conservation...continued
and fertilizing.
2. Transform Your Yard: Transforming your yard into a functional, drought-tolerant outdoor space goes a long way. Use mulch and save at least 30 gallons of water each time you water.
3. Avoid using water to clean: Using a broom to clean outdoor areas is the best way to tidy and reduce your water use.
4. Water during cooler times of day. When you avoid watering during peak heat, you ensure that the water goes to
USDA to Bring New Jobs and Improved Infrastructure to Rural Partners Network Communities...continued
your plants and is not lost to evaporation.
5. Keep your soil healthy. When you maintain healthy soil, you allow it to act as a sponge, and absorb more water efficiently.
By following these tips, Californians can help make a difference in our water supply and Save Our Water for generations to come.
For tips on how to save water, visit saveourwater.com
new investments in clean water, expanded health care services and safe, affordable housing.
RPN is an all-of-government program more than 800 federal, state and local partners that collaborate to address specific needs in communities that have long struggled to access government programs and
funding.
Today’s announcement includes $394 million in awards from USDA that will benefit RPN communities and support their long-term visions for strong, local economies. A complete list of projects is available online.
Community/ Education News
A gardener mulches the plants to help reduce watering in his garden.
Photo Credit: CA Department of Water Resources when full saves 5–15 gallons per load compared to washing dishes by hand!
It's understandable that Californians are seeing the recent wet weather and are wondering what that means for California’s water supply. You may be asking, when it rains, do I need to keep conserving water?
What difference do my actions make? The truth is, conservation needs to be a way of life for all Californians to ensure we have enough water for our daily activities now and in the future. Here are 10 everyday habits you can build into your lifestyle that will conserve water:
Indoor
1. Fix Leaks: Leaky faucets and toilets can waste hundreds of gallons of water each month. Check for leaks and make sure to repair any that you find.
2. Install Low-Flow
Fixtures: Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators can reduce water use by up to 50 percent.
3. Wash Full Loads of Clothes and Dishes: Running the washing machine only when full saves 15–45 gallons per load! Running the dishwasher only
Communities
More Than Two Million People to Benefit from Economic Growth
Community/Education News
4. Change your shower routine: Half of all water use inside the home takes place in the bathroom! Put a bucket inside the shower while your water warms up and use it in your garden. Shortening your showers to 5 minutes can also save water. Actions like these can reduce your water use by over 10 gallons of water each shower.
5. Reuse Water: Reuse the water from washing dishes, cleaning your produce, or boiling noodles. Instead of letting the water run while washing veggies and fruits, just fill a bowl, dunk them in and wipe them dry.
Outdoor
1. Plant Native Plants: Native plants require about half as much water and are better adapted to California's climate. Plus, a water-wise California native garden can reduce maintenance once established, eliminating the need for mowing
continued in next 2 columns
WASHINGTON, May 22, 2023
– U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA is helping rural communities across eight states and Puerto Rico address some of their immediate needs and foster longterm economic growth.
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda provides a historic opportunity to transform our economy from one that benefits a few to one that benefits many,” Vilsack said. “Through Rural Partners Network, USDA staff is on the ground listening to those many different voices in rural America and responding with funding and resources that will help people in small towns, rural places and on Tribal lands build stronger communities and brighter futures.”
USDA is providing loans and grants to help people living in rural and Tribal communities in the Rural Partners Network
drought.
(RPN) access good-paying jobs, improved infrastructure, affordable housing and quality health care.
In all, the funding will support 52 projects in Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia and Puerto Rico. Some projects also will benefit people outside RPN communities in Alabama, Florida and Texas.
In the West, the funding will help Tribal communities improve water and wastewater services and bring solar power and other forms of renewable energy to Tribal lands and farms. For people living in Southern communities, projects will increase access to fresh foods in high-poverty areas and allow electric cooperatives to connect thousands of people to power with smart-grid technologies. Residents in parts of Appalachia will benefit from
[May 22, 2023 (San Bernardino, Calif.)] - SummerFest returns to San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC)!
SBVC is proud to continue this one-of-a-kind partnership with the San Bernardino Symphony celebrating Independence Day. Join us for family-friendly fun, festivities and a concert on July 1 at the SBVC Football Field from 5 to 9 p.m. The concert, titled “America, the Beautiful,” starts at 7:30 p.m. and is expected to draw thousands of attendees. The show ends with Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” and an exciting firework display.
Food vendors, face painters, games and more are expected at this year’s SummerFest. You don’t want to miss out!
Picture a mountain valley somewhere in the Alleghanies, Appalachians or Blue Ridge. It’s a safe bet what you just imagined didn’t include a metal pipeline more than three feet wide running down a steep ridge or crossing a pristine stream.
People from West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, and several Indigenous nations have been fighting for years to keep that image from becoming a reality by opposing the incongruously named, 303-mile-long Mountain Valley Pipeline across their states and ancestral lands. They’ve been so successful, in fact, that some in Congress want to take away their power to oppose a project that’s recorded hundreds of clean water violations alone.
It's part of a bigger fight that goes by the mundane-sounding name “permitting reform” that’s playing out in Washington right now. While that description isn’t as stirring as “Star Wars” missile defense or “the Great Society,” the decision being made will determine how the nation can exert oversight on big projects from pipelines to manufacturing plants to minimize their damage to the planet. Some of them
may go on federal lands, many of them will be financed by hundreds of billions that the federal government will invest in infrastructure and clean energy in the next decade.
It's a fight so important that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has tied defaulting on the country’s debt to resolving it.
“This is more than just about the Mountain Valley Pipeline,” Maury Johnson, a retired educator and farmer from West Virginia who’s a leader in the opposition, told a reporter. “This is about the Gulf Coast, North Alaska and every community that has been sacrificed for decades. We can’t continue to sacrifice communities and people.”
If we called it “protection reform,” it might easier to understand. What’s at stake is the process for protecting our air, water, and land from what may be irreparable harm. Some want to erode environmental safeguards that have been in place for more than 50 years and reduce the time allotted to determine the impact the new projects will have during their decades-long lifespan. Some want to treat dirty fossil fuel
industries in the same way we think about new clean energy businesses. The fast lane needs to be reserved for renewable energy and transmission infrastructure to distribute it.
We also could call it “participation reform.” President Biden is pushing for greater consultation with communities that will be closest to new projects and transparency about their locations. Opponents want to extend exclusions that would allow plans to bypass any meaningful public voice, particularly for the Mountain Valley Pipeline project. They even want to limit the ability of communities to challenge projects in court.
Those who are most strident about permitting reform argue that the safeguards we have in place or seek to add come at too high an economic price. Faster approvals will lead to lower energy prices sooner, they claim. But the falling prices of renewable energy show otherwise.
vThe costs that are too high are not to determine environmental impacts and not to let those most affected have their say. We know that it’s the poor, people or color, and native peoples who live in those communities that pay the most for these projects. The Biden administration has moved to acknowledge indirect and cumulative impacts on climate and environment as well as direct ones. Under President Trump, the federal government limited the analysis to only the most blatant damage.
The argument comes down to expediency versus existence. We’ve been careening toward a warmer planet with less biodiversity since the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution. We’ve subsidized destructive industries by rendering people and places disposable by failing to consider them. That’s what we can no longer permit.
Dalit activist Prem Pariyar says his family was brutally attacked in Nepal for being “untouchables.” He fled to the U.S., but finds caste discrimination persists here as well.
In 2014, Prem Pariyar’s father, who lives in Kathmandu, rented a truck for a day at a cost of 50 Nepali rupees. He asked the owner of the truck to come back the following day to get the payment, the equivalent of 38 cents in the U.S. Pariyar’s family are Dalits, sometimes derisively referred to as “untouchables.” Caste oppression and discrimination are currently on the front burner in California: on May 11, the state Senate overwhelmingly passed SB 403, which would make discrimination on the basis of caste illegal in the state. The bill was sponsored by Democrat Sen. Aisha Wahab, the first South Asian American woman in the California state Legislature.
Brutal Attack
If the bill passes through the Assembly and is signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, California would become the first state to explicitly ban caste-based discrimination. Opponents of the measure say protection for Dalits already exists in California state law.
The Seattle, Washington City Council passed a similar resolution in February.
caste truck owner and his gang started to attack his sister and father, viciously beating them while chanting anti-Dalit vitriol. “My dad fainted, he fell to the ground.”
Brain Bleed and Nightmares
Pariyar’s wife called Prem, who returned immediately and called police. The family was taken to the hospital. Pariyar’s father sustained a slow brain bleed, which lasted about six months. His mother and sister suffered extensive bruising throughout their bodies. The family remains traumatized to this day, often suffering nightmares of the horrific event, he said.
Pariyar said he tried to file a report with police, but allegedly got nowhere. He fled to the U.S. in 2015, using caste oppression as the basis for his asylum claim, which was approved by the State Department, according to him.
that are reported rarely result in official action, according to the State Department report.
Asylum in the US
The State Department cited similar conditions in India.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs immediately denounced the report as “motivated and biased commentary” and added that “such reports continue to be based on misinformation and flawed understanding.”
Pariyar’s case is an acknowledgm,ement that the State Department recognizes that caste oppression is a valid condition upon which to approve an asylum claim, said Thenmozhi Soundararajan, founder of the Oakland, California-based Equality Labs, the largest Dalit organization in the U.S. “Caste discrimination is a known reason for asylum; we have seen cases across multiple states,” she told EMS.
Discrimination Continues
attended college at CSU East Bay; discrimination against him persisted by other South Asian Americans.
“People used to ask my name. When I said ‘I’m Prem Pariyar,’ their body language changed immediately. Silence descended. They could tell by my surname that I was Dalit.”
“So many people in my community have changed their surnames to hide their caste identity. But I have never hidden who I am,” said Pariyar.
‘Polluted’ Food
The associate mental health clinician, who is currently practicing at the Portia Bell Hume Behavioral Health and Training Center, said that shortly after arriving in the US, he went to a house party. “When it was time to have food together, I was stopped many times. They didn’t want me to touch the food because I would pollute it. They have a fear of polluting their food.”
A similar incident occurred at a contract worksite, during a birthday celebration of a Nepali co-worker. Everyone at the office was invited, so Pariyar went. But when he went to get his food, he was stopped. “The hostess immediately stopped me. ‘Excuse me, Prem, can you stop? Please don’t touch that food. I will prepare a plate for you.’”
The Covid-19 pandemic is seemingly behind us; in fact, President Biden recently ended the official national health emergency [April 10].
So perhaps it's unsurprising that Americans want lawmakers to start preparing for the next public health threat, according to a new survey from the Biotechnology Innovation Organization and Healthcare Ready. Here are five big reasons lawmakers need to get the ball rolling.
1. The federal government is woefully underprepared to address future public health emergencies.
According to the BIO/ Healthcare Ready survey only 22% of respondents believe that the U.S. would be "very prepared" for a new public health emergency today.
An investigation by the chairman of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee criticized the initial Covid-19 pandemic response as "historically unprepared." His report found that lack of a clear leadership structure, poor domestic manufacturing capacity, inadequate infectious disease surveillance, and poor communication were all contributing factors.
2. Government agencies designed to address public health emergencies are underfunded.
will save money in the long run. A report from the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board found that getting ready for the next pandemic would cost $39 billion. That's about $5 for every person alive today. That figure is nothing next to the estimated $11 trillion cost of the 2020 response to Covid-19 and the $10 trillion in lost earnings.
4. Public health threats are also threats to national security.
An overwhelming 92% of survey respondents agree that "The ability to effectively prevent public health emergencies is a crucial part of maintaining U.S. national security." And 80% of respondents were at least somewhat concerned that the nation will face a bioterrorism attack in the next five years.
The budget of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, the body in charge of developing medical countermeasures, was barely $745 million in fiscal 2022. A mere $76 million was available for the agency's public-private partnership program designed to help address health security threats.
5. State lawmakers are key actors as well.
Pariyar told Ethnic Media Services the truck driver was very angry. “He said: ‘oh, you untouchables. How you dare to say that? Do I have to come again just to receive Rs 50? Okay, wait, I will show you your label.’”
The truck owner came back with 25 men, who broke through the door of the Pariyars’ home and tore the place apart, according to Prem Pariyar. He was not home, but his mother, father, sister, wife, and little son were all inside.
Pariyar alleged that the higher
At press time May 19, the State Department had not responded to a request for comment on Pariyar’s case or whether caste oppression is a valid criteria for asylum cases. But in its annual “Country Reports on Human Rights Practices – the Human Rights Report,” the agency noted that while castebased discrimination is illegal in Nepal, the practice still continues and is often violent.
The report cited Dalit activists as saying discrimination laws were too general and did not explicitly protect Dalits. Most cases go unreported, and those
“Immigration case law is one of the robust bodies of US law where caste discrimination is recognized,” said Soundararajan.
“This happened in front of my fellow co-workers. I was feeling like I was not a human being at that time,” said Pariyar. “I was so embarrassed. But nobody stood up and told the hostess ‘this is wrong,’ which made me feel even more bad.”
‘Casteism Still Alive’
Spurred on by Pariyar’s activism, in January 2022, the California State University system added caste as a protected category to its system-wide antidiscrimination policies.
“I used to think the United States, this is the dream land for everyone. Because here people can have all kinds of freedom. This is the land of human rights.”
Of the $3.6 trillion America spends on health annually, less than 3% goes to public health and preventive measures.The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, the agency with primary responsibility, saw its inflation-adjusted budget decrease by 10% between 2010 and 2019.
Fully 71% of survey respondents believe the federal spending for public health preparedness should increase.
3. Funding for preparedness
A nearly unanimous 97% of respondents believe that state governments share at least some responsibility for public health emergency preparedness. And 72% believe that the federal government should coordinate with state and local governments on response plans.
The verdict is in: Americans want us to be ready for the next emergency.
Phyllis Arthur is the senior vice president of infectious disease and emerging science policy at the Biotechnology Innovation Organization and the chair of Healthcare Ready. Tom Cotter, MPH, is the executive director of Healthcare Ready.
Summer reading helps students store needed knowledge... continued
After fleeing to the US, Pariyar
“But the truth is, casteism is still alive and well today in California. Dalits are suffering daily from the effects of historic and modern casteism,” said Pariyar.
self-confidence in young Black and brown boys ages 6 to 10 years old. For example, ‘B’ is for Black King, celebrating African royalty.
teacher caused her to fall a little behind in reading.
“Summer reading gives students that extra push to be avid readers,” said Clark.
Costs
from page 1
to settle claims nationwide.
One would think Riverside County has deep pockets because the report shows that between 2010 and 2020, the county paid an astounding $77 million in payments resulting from judgements and settlement claims resulting from officers’ aberrant actions.
Although the county and its sheriff’s department has insurance to pay for such costs, with any such claim, taxpayers are still on the hook whether it’s to offset the cost of lawyers, investigators, miscellaneous court costs, etc. There is always a price to be paid and depending on how long a case drags on, the more those costs accrue.
Although some can claim budgets include funding to offset these costs, those budget dollars come from the taxpayers.
Many activists have argued police misconduct costs should be directly linked to police budgets as a way to mitigate bad behavior by deputies/police. There is also a case to be made for those who abuse citizens–especially repeat offenders who continue to do so–should be personally penalized financially.
I personally believe they should be terminated, however termination is difficult as long
“It hurts my heart when my kindergartner leaves my class reading all their sight words, and when they get to first grade their teacher complains to me about how behind my former student is in reading,” said Taylor.
“I encourage my daughter to take a book with her wherever she goes, even if it’s to the park,” said Clark as she smiled with pride.
Clark’s books can be found at Witty Kids Club: The Red Book
as the protections of qualified immunity remain in place.
When SB 2 became effective in January 2022, although it did not do away with the protections afforded officers via qualified immunity, it did make it easier for victims of excessive force to press civil lawsuits by eliminating certain immunities.
Recognizing that SB 2 should not be the final word in this regard, perhaps California should look to Colorado for an innovative option that may move the state further along in its quest to reduce police misconduct.
Colorado has implemented a hybrid system where officers found guilty of using excessive force or other violations, are now required to pay five percent of a judgment up to $25,000–whichever is less. In addition, the law allows the officers to purchase liability insurance.
Requiring officers to share the cost of his/her bad behavior could be a giant step toward finding a solution to the issue of excessive force and police misconduct in general. However, recognizing the stranglehold police/sheriff unions have over politicians in this state Colorado’s approach may be a heavy lift in California. Of course, this is just my opinion. I’m keeping it real.
The school year will soon fade into summer, which means family vacations, sleeping in, and staying up late.
According to the American Library Association, summer reading encourages youths to develop a lifelong habit of reading. It also helps those who are reluctant to read books become more interested through activities over the summer. Students that have a summer book reading plan in place are at a lower risk of losing reading skills from the previous school year.
Scholastic research shows that summer reading helps youths foster social-emotional development. 83 percent of educators say reading helps students understand people
that are different from them, 81 percent say reading helps students develop empathy, and 81 percent say reading helps students see themselves in characters and stories.
The St. Louis American interviewed Chandria Taylor, Rebecca Clark, and Tracie McGhee, children’s book authors, they discussed what their book is about and the benefits of summer reading.
The ABC’s To Black Boy Joy Authors are encouraging Black students to grow their confidence with characters that look like them in their stories. (Courtesy Photo)
Written by Chandria Taylor, a kindergarten teacher in the metro-east, the book encourages
Taylor advises families to make reading fun. They can have their young readers read the signs of restaurants and local attractions. She also recommends online sites including pbskids.org and Starfall.com.
Summer reading gives students that extra push to be avid readers.
Taylor’s books can be found on Amazon: Witty Kids: I Dream To Be
Educators say that reading helps students improve crosscultural understanding. (Courtesy Photo)
Author Rebecca Clark, Clark is a mother of two— a high schooler and a second grader. Her book teaches young minds to explore a world of endless possibilities through a variety of careers – such as a veterinarian, astronaut, or engineer. Clark’s book encourages kids to dream beyond their imagination, and to see themselves in careers they thought they would never be in. Her book is for readers between first and fourth grade.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Clark’s youngest daughter was entering kindergarten and she witnessed the struggles her daughter was facing learning through a computer screen. She says that her young learner missed learning to read the traditional way, and not having that one-on-one time with her
Written by Tracie BerryMcGhee, a therapist who focuses on the mental development of pre-teen through young adult girls, “The Red Book” features letters and poems written by women from St. Louis. She calls her books “teen girls’ advice for the soul.”
Berry-McGhee noticed during the pandemic more teens were turning to TikTok than picking up a book. From her point of view, teens lose interest in reading because many books don’t speak to them.
She recommends parents should start a book club within the family— the choice of the teen. This creates bonding and gives them something to do besides staring at a screen. She also recommends books that have short stories and recommends that teens start a book club within their friend circle.
“Teens having books to read that spark their interest helps keep them out of trouble,” said the therapist.
Berry-McGhee says that as a community we must push literacy, enjoy reading, and not make it a chore. She said, “Our children have nothing to do, but do something they will regret.”
This article was originally published by the St. Louis American.
harm a government-run system will have on vulnerable taxpayers and the true costs to taxpayers. The prices estimated in the study to build, operate, and maintain are laughable. “
Plummer also said, “The study cherry-picks data to support its flawed conclusion ignoring that only 12% of taxpayers said they would use a government-run system if state returns are not included.”
officials expect 168 million individual tax returns to be filed this year.
A report from the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR) released in January, found that Black Americans were more likely to be audited by the IRS than another taxpayer group.
National Medal for Museum and Library Service Recognizes LA County Library’s Community Contributions
As Mental Health Awareness gets underway, there’s no better time for our industry’s leaders to make one simple commitment that’s proven to improve mental wellbeing in the workplace.
I was recently given the opportunity to appear at The Media Leaders Awards, along with some of my fellow Future 100 inductees, to present a personal manifesto to our industry’s leaders; my perspective on an issue that I believe we should be prioritising in the year ahead.
For me, there is no greater threat to our industry’s ability to prosper than the present and growing mental health crisis, and in particular the impact it’s having on our emerging talent.
Now, you probably don’t need me to tell you why we’re in the midst of a mental health crisis: the aftermath of a global pandemic, the economic downturn, costof-living pressures, political instability, incessant culture wars, and record-breaking NHS waiting lists (and not in a good way).
In our workplaces, hybrid working is still in flux and has reduced social interaction levels across the board. Every business is under increased economic pressure whilst everyone is expected to deliver more with less to work with.
And it’s our junior teams, as the newest and lowest paid employees, who are feeling the sharper end of these pressures and who don’t necessarily have the experience or confidence, or feel they have the permission, to speak up when things get too much.
Okay, some numbers now – I wouldn’t be from Thinkbox if I didn’t halt proceedings for a few numbers.
A recent Deloitte study estimated that the total annual cost of poor mental health to employers was £56bn in 2021.
The same study suggests that of the young people who have recently left their job or plan to do so in the next 12 months, two in three say the decision was driven by poor mental health.
Meanwhile, mental health calls to NABS are up 31% yearon-year, but up 74% on prepandemic levels. And as their CEO Sue Todd shared recently at The Future of Brands event in London, new data suggests that for almost 70% of people, their manager has more impact on their mental health than their therapist or doctor, and it’s equal to the impact of their partner.
If you’re a leader, you’re right to find these stats sobering. And to try and meaningfully tackle such a huge issue alongside the day to day running of a profitable business can seem a hugely daunting task.
You’ll no doubt already have a number of polices and initiatives in place to look after the wellbeing of your people. But can you honestly say that everyone in your organisation feels as comfortable talking about their mental health in the same way they might their physical health?
Having a direct positive impact I grew up with a parent with severe mental ill health, so I
By Hamil R. Harris
(TriceEdneyWire.com) - The IRS is exploring a direct e-file system for tax returns. However, some believe the system would bring undue harm to historically marginalized communities – including Black and lowincome taxpayers - based on recent reports concerning IRS enforcement actions.
The Internal Revenue Service submitted a report to Congress, required by the Inflation Reduction Act, which evaluated the feasibility of providing taxpayers with the option of a free, voluntary, IRSrun electronic filing system, commonly referred to as "Direct File."
This report was issued just days after IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel sent a letter to Congress admitting that Black taxpayers are unfairly subject to audits more than any other group.
The letter confirmed the findings in a Stanford University study released in January showing that Black taxpayers are 3-5 times more likely to receive an IRS audit than others.
Another academic study issued in January by Syracuse University noted that low-income taxpayers – primarily those who qualify for the earned income tax credit – are five times more
The IRS report concluded that effective execution of a Direct File program would require sustained budget investment and careful management of the potential program's operational complexity.
The report focused on three areas: taxpayer opinions, cost, and feasibility. The information included an analysis conducted by an independent third party, as required by the statute. The report also outlines the potential benefits and challenges associated with the IRS implementing a Direct File program.
“The IRS is committed to delivering significantly improved services by providing taxpayers with tools, information, and assistance to make it easier to comply with their tax filing obligations. Direct File – used by numerous tax jurisdictions worldwide – has long been discussed as an option for improving the customer experience for taxpayers in the U.S.," said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel.
Before the study's release, lobbyists for tax preparers criticized how the IRS historically targeted people of color when processing tax returns.
Last month activists protested tax prep giants TurboTax and H&R Block for trying to slow the release of government tax filing programs, which was part of a mega million-dollar lobbying effort.
April 18 was the deadline to file taxes in 2023, and the IRS reported receiving 90 million returns as of March 30. Agency
“What we found was that the audit rate of Black taxpayers was 3 to 5 times the rate of audits for non-Black taxpayers, Stanford Researcher Daniel Ho told NPR.
He says the disparity doesn't appear to be deliberate. The IRS doesn't ask taxpayers about their race, and most audits are conducted by mail. But something in the way the agency decides who to audit results in Blacks being disproportionately targeted. And the new IRS commissioner, sworn in just two months ago, told NPR, “Our tax system must be fair.”
“I engaged with my team on day one to make sure it's a priority to understand fully,” Werfel said. “How do we get to the bottom of it and figure out what we need to do going ahead?
While the agency is looking into the matter of disproportionate Black audits, an Intuit blog post notes that when it comes to direct e-file, taxpayers are concerned with “the conflict of interest of having the IRS as the judge, jury, and executioner of a taxpayers’ personal finances.”
According to the IRS report, approximately 60 percent of multiracial, Hispanic, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander recipients received a payment in the first week, compared to roughly 55 percent of White, American Indian, Alaska Native, Black, or Asian recipients.
In contrast, White and Asian recipients were the most likely to receive their payments in the first six weeks, though more than 90 percent of revenues were received in the first six weeks for every racial/ethnic subgroup the authors examined.
LOS ANGELES, CA— The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced LA County Library was selected as one of eight recipients of the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that make significant and exceptional contributions to their communities. Over the past 29 years, the award has celebrated institutions that are making a difference for individuals, families, and communities.
“IMLS is delighted to announce the eight worthy recipients of the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, including LA County Library.” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper. “LA County Library meets the needs of one of the most complex and diverse communities in the nation.”
Founded in 1912, LA County Library is one of the largest and most innovative library systems in the US, serving 3.4 million residents across 3,000 square miles through its 85 community libraries, 1 institutional library, and mobile fleet of 15 vehicles. It provides culturally responsive and dynamic collections, programs, and services to meet the literacy, information, personal enrichment, and entertainment needs of all residents across Los Angeles County.
Selected from 30 national
finalists, the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service winners represent institutions that provide dynamic programming and services that exceed expected levels of service. Through their community outreach, these institutions bring about change that touches the lives of individuals and helps communities thrive.
“It is a profound and humbling honor to be selected as a winner of the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service from among so many vital cultural institutions across the nation,” said Library Director Skye Patrick. “I am proud of our extraordinary team here at LA County Library, who embody outstanding customer service, help make our libraries the welcoming community hubs they are, and routinely inspire residents to learn and grow throughout all stages of their lives. We accept this award on behalf of the communities of Los Angeles County that we have the privilege to serve every day, by removing barriers to access and increasing equitable opportunities for all.”
The award will be presented at a ceremony this summer in Washington, DC. For a complete list of 2023 recipients and to learn more about the National Medal winners, visit the IMLS website.
likely to receive an audit than other tax filers. Both studies were conducted using data directly from the IRS.
Industry experts familiar with the e-file program developments and the reported imbalance in IRS enforcement actions noted that a new system built on a foundation of bias is risky and will have a negative impact on individuals and families already suffering from over audits.
More broadly, industry experts say the new system would make the process of filing taxes less transparent and undermine access to independent tax experts and advocates for all Americans. This could risk low-income and working-class taxpayers receiving smaller tax refunds than they deserve.
While the IRS report found that many taxpayers are interested in using a free IRS-provided tool to prepare and file taxes and that the agency is technically capable of delivering a Direct File program, the study is drawing fire from tax industry preparers like TurboTax.
Derrick Plummer, spokesperson for Intuit, the parent company of TurboTax, said in a statement. “The report released by the IRS is not grounded in reality. The study ignores the
National/Political News
SACRAMENTO—Military
retirees and their surviving spouses are one step closer to seeing their armed forces pensions exempt from state taxation after the Assembly today approved AB 46 on a bipartisan 77-0 vote. Several past attempts at similar legislation have failed to pass the house of origin.
The bill, AB 46, was introduced earlier this year by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino who also authored a similar measure last year that did not make it out of the Assembly. “I’m not one to give up on something I think is important,” Ramos said. “California is the only state to tax the pensions of our military personnel. We need to make the state more veteran friendly and honor the many sacrifices of our armed services personnel and their spouses.”
AB 46 tax benefits would begin on or after January 1, 2024, and before January 1, 2034.
First time military retiree measure leaves its house of origin of valuable capacities, and they and their families have frequently done so at great personal sacrifice. California needs to more fully acknowledge the contributions they make.” Jeffrey Breiten, retired Naval Officer and member of the California Council of Chapters of the Military Officers Association of America, endorsed the Ramos measure. “I want to thank Assemblymember James Ramos for his efforts. California is the only state in the nation that fails to provide an exemption on military retirement from state income taxes. California is home to the largest number of active-duty military personnel in the country, yet California’s military retiree population has realized a steady decline dating back to 2010. Military retirees contribute to the state's workforce development where they chose to retire. Our state loses out on millions of dollars in federal funds that follow military retirees after retirement.”
Esmeralda Soria, chairperson of the Assembly Committee of the Military and Veterans Affairs Esmeralda Soria (D-Merced) and a joint author said: “I am proud to be a co-author on this important legislation that supports retired veterans and retains them in California.”
Ramos said the tax relief would help make California more veteran friendly. “Military retirees bring benefits to our state such as stability, job skills used in second careers, and federal funding. These men and women served our nation in a variety
became fluent in the language of the subject from a young age. But to bring some of that experience into the workplace and do some good with it, I became a Mental Health First Aider in 2021.
It’s a two-day course that requires no previous experience or knowledge in the subject. Much like physical first aid, you’re trained to be the first responder in a mental health crisis, but you’re also equipped to be able to talk confidently about different mental health conditions, to understand the definitions, and to be able to spot the signs of mental ill health before it gets out of control.
Become more fluent in the language of mental health
There’s enormous power in our industry’s leaders taking the lead in this commitment, using just two of your 260 days to better educate yourself in mental health.
Taking a physical first aid course doesn’t signal to your people that you now suddenly take heart attacks and burst varicose veins more seriously than you used to, but with mental health it really does make the difference.
AB 46 is sponsored by the Military Officers Association of America and the California Council of Chapters Affiliated Military Officers Association of America. It is also supported by the San Diego Military Advisory Council, Orange Empire Military Officers Club, California Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States, California State Commanders Veterans Council, the San Diego County Taxpayers Association, and individual chapters of the military officers association.
There’s ample evidence that it improves attitudes towards mental health issues, reduces stigma in the workplace, and has a direct positive impact on the health and well-being of those who attend.
MHFA England has a goal to train one in 10 of the population, so this Mental Health Awareness Week, I’m looking for one simple commitment from every leader who believes in nurturing the wellbeing of their people:
That 10% of your workforce is trained as Mental First Aiders within the next 12 months – and a further commitment that that number is doubled to 20% of the senior leadership team.
Help your organisation become more fluent in the language of mental health. Ensure that there is always someone within arms reach to provide support and to spot when things are not okay. And actively demonstrate to your people that you care about their mental wellbeing, that you take it seriously both as an organisation and as a human being.
GroupM CEO Josh Krichefski said it best recently in his inaugural speech as IPA President:
“We don’t have factories, trucks, manufactured goods. Our people are everything. It’s their brilliance and imagination which is what makes us who and what we are. And that’s why we have to look after them.”
interested in the project must be registered users and download/print their own set of bidding documents.
There will be a mandatory Pre-Bid Conference 9:00 am May 31, 2023 at Mecca Elementary School, 65-250 Coahuilla St, Mecca, CA 92254. Report to Admin Building. Any Contractor bidding on the Project who fails to attend the entire mandatory job walk and conference will be deemed a non-responsive bidder and will have its bid returned unopened.
Scope of work to include but not limited to, fence removal and installation of new fence, installation of new concrete track pathway and natural grass field, irrigation improvements, new athletic site furnishing.
Project time of completion: 120 days
Project estimate: $1.9 Million
Each bidder shall be a licensed contractor pursuant to the California Business and Professions Code, and be licensed to perform the work called for in the Contract Documents. The successful bidder must possess a valid and active Class “B” License at the time of bid and throughout the duration of this Contract. The Contractor’s California State License number shall be clearly stated on the bidder’s proposal.
Subcontractors shall be licensed pursuant to California law for the trades necessary to perform the Work called for in the Contract Documents.
Each bid must strictly conform with and be responsive to the Contract Documents as defined in the General Conditions.
The District reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any irregularities or informalities in any bids or in the bidding. Each bidder shall submit with its bid — on the form furnished with the Contract Documents — a list of the designated subcontractors on this Project as required by the Subletting and Subcontracting Fair Practices Act, California Public Contract Code section 4100 et seq.
In accordance with California Public Contract Code section 22300, the District will permit the substitution of securities for any moneys withheld by the District to ensure performance under the Contract. At the request and expense of the Contractor, securities equivalent to the amount withheld shall be deposited with the District, or with a state or federally chartered bank as the escrow agent, who shall then pay such moneys to the Contractor. Upon satisfactory completion of the Contract, the securities shall be returned to the Contractor. Each bidder’s bid must be accompanied by one of the following forms of bidder’s security: (1) cash; (2) a cashier’s check made payable to the District; (3) a certified check made payable to the District; or (4) a bidder’s bond executed by a California admitted surety as defined in Code of Civil Procedure section 995.120, made payable to the District in the form set forth in the Contract Documents. Such bidder’s security must be in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the maximum amount of bid as a guarantee that the bidder will enter into the proposed Contract, if the same is awarded to such bidder, and will provide the required Performance and Payment Bonds, insurance certificates and any other required documents. In the event of failure to enter into said Contract or provide the necessary documents, said security will be forfeited.
The Contractor and all Subcontractors shall comply with the requirements set forth in Division 2, Part 7, Chapter 1 of the Labor Code. The District has obtained from the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations the general prevailing rate of per diem wages and the general prevailing rate for holiday and overtime work in the locality in which this work is to be performed for each craft, classification or type of worker needed to execute the Contract. These per diem rates, including holiday and overtime work, as well as employer payments for health and welfare, pension, vacation, and similar purposes, are on file at the District, and are also available from the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations. Pursuant to California Labor Code section 1720 et seq., it shall be mandatory upon the Contractor to whom the Contract is awarded, and upon any subcontractor under such Contractor, to pay not less than the said specified rates to all workers employed by them in the execution of the Contract.
A Contractor or Subcontractor shall not be qualified to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, subject to the requirements of Section 4104 of the Public Contract Code, or engage in the performance of any contract for public work, as defined in the Labor Code, unless currently registered and qualified to perform public work pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5. It is not a violation of this section for an unregistered contractor to submit a bid that is authorized by Section 7029.1 of the Business and Professions Code or by Section 10164 or 20103.5 of the Public Contract Code, provided the contractor is registered to perform public work pursuant to Section 1725.5 at the time the contract is awarded.
The Contractor and all subcontractors shall furnish certified payroll records as required pursuant Labor Code section 1776 directly to the Labor Commissioner in accordance with Labor Code section 1771.4 on at least on a monthly basis (or more frequently if required by the District or the Labor Commissioner) and in a format prescribed by the Labor Commissioner. Monitoring and enforcement of the prevailing wage laws and related requirements will be performed by the Labor Commissioner/ Department of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE). No bidder may withdraw any bid for a period of ninety (90) calendar days after the date set for the opening of bids. Separate payment and performance bonds, each in an amount equal to 100% of the total Contract amount, are
Even as climate change fuels a surge in global migration those seeking refuge have few legal options as governments worldwide move to tighten their borders.
From the shores of Greece to the US southern border, across Turkey, North Africa and along the length of the America’s, the flow of humanity fleeing war, violence, poverty, and hunger is rising yearby-year.
And, experts say, government policies are exacerbating this growing humanitarian catastrophe even as climate change threatens to swell migrant numbers to new heights.
“People are seeking refuge,” says Susan Fratzke, Senior Policy Analyst with the Migration Policy Institute’s International Program, who notes migrant flows over the last decade have not only grown but have become more global in scale.
“People are not just moving to a country right across the border… or even one or two countries further on,” she explains. “People are seeking refuge, really, across the world.”
Last year alone,
Europe took in nearly 1 million applications for asylum – from countries as removed as Syria and Afghanistan to Colombia and Venezuela – on top of the 4 million Ukrainians who have resettled within the bloc since Russia’s invasion one year ago.
Turkey is home to between 4 and 6 million migrants and refugees, in addition to being a major transit corridor for those seeking passage to Europe, while across Latin America some 7 million Venezuelans have spread across the continent, many of them settling in Colombia and Peru.
Due to prohibitive and outdated immigration and asylum policies, millions of people are forced to travel via dangerous routes and through countries illegally as they seek a better life, says Susan Fratzke, Senior Policy Analyst with Migration Policy Institute’s International Program.
Fratzke, who spoke
during a panel discussion last week on the nexus of climate change and global migration flows, says the growing numbers belie the reality that for many seeking to flee conditions at home, the options to do so legally are few and far between.
“There is a lack of legal pathways for people to move globally,” she noted, explaining that most developed countries impose work and family restrictions on wouldbe migrants that favor skilled laborers and nuclear families, leaving those most vulnerable to the whims of smugglers and organized crime.
\And that policy framework, she notes, is contributing to the scenes of chaos witnessed, for example, along the US southern border or in Greece, where authorities were found last week to be abandoning migrants at sea, in violation of international human rights law.
Schools and Local Communities Set to Receive $2.35 Billion
Sacramento – Today, the California State Board of Equalization (BOE) unanimously adopted the $146.1 billion in state-assessed property values of 336 companies within California, which include telephone, gas, and electric companies, independent power producers, regulated railroads, and intercounty pipelines.
In the upcoming fiscal year, schools and local communities statewide will receive a total of approximately $2.35 billion in property tax revenue resulting from the BOE fulfilling one of its core constitutional functions.
“Every year, the BOE sets and adopts property values directly assessed by the state,” said BOE
Chair Antonio Vazquez. “As a result, the critical tax dollars generated will continue to fund schools and local communities across California.” Whereas most property in California is assessed by County Assessors, the BOE is constitutionally assigned to directly assess certain public utilities, regulated railroads, and intercounty pipelines throughout the state. Also, these properties are not subject to Proposition 13, and the BOE must annually determine the fair market value of the unitary property, which includes improvements, personal property, and land. The BOE develops the fair market value by considering
market conditions, income generated by the property, replacement costs, investments in the property, regulatory climate, depreciation, and other factors as of the January 1 lien date.
For fiscal year 202324, there was a 7.2% increase in the total value from last year in the amount of $9.8 billion, generating approximately more than $158 million additional tax dollars. County governments will use the values set by the BOE to levy local property taxes. The entire list of stateassessed property values and more information on the State-Assessed Properties Program is available on the BOE website.
Nowhere to Turn – Few Legal Paths for Migrants Fleeing War, Hunger and Climate Change...continued much climate change and environmental degradation were a factor,” she said.
Climate change fueling migrant crisis
All of this comes as the World Meteorological Organization says that the next five years are likely to be the hottest on record as an El Niño pattern sets in, threatening more torrential downpours, prolonged and deadlier heat waves and more intense periods of drought and wildfires.
“This will have farreaching repercussions for health, food security, water management and the environment,” warned Petteri Taalas, the secretary general of the meteorological organization. “We need to be prepared.”
Amali Tower is the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Climate Refugees. “There is absolutely no doubt that climate change is driving global displacement,” she said, noting that every year some 23 million people are displaced by climate and weather-related events. And while many of these people remain internally displaced within their home countries, anywhere from 80%-90% of cross-border refugees worldwide come from countries deemed most vulnerable to climate change.
\Despite that fact, climate refugee is still not a recognized legal category under international law. According to the 1951 Refugee Convention, individuals can seek asylum only based on persecution because of race, religion, membership in a particular group (eg sexual orientation), or political opinion.
Tower notes many cross-border asylum seekers are therefore often reluctant to cite climate as a driving reason for their claims, a reality she says led her to start her organization. “It was refugees themselves who were disclosing to me how
Amali Tower, Founder & Executive Director, Climate Refugees, says currently those fleeing climate crises cannot claim asylum in the United States. She details proposed U.S. legislation and U.N. policy changes that may expand asylum rules to include climate refugees.
Building a ‘climate fortress’
Andrew Rosenberg, assistant professor of Political Science at the University of Florida and author of “Undesirable Immigrants: Why Racism Persists in International Migration,” says the response in the West to date has been to create what he termed a “climate fortress.”
Citing historical racism and a legacy of colonialism, Rosenberg says rising anti-migrant antipathy across much of the West is likely to grow as the number of migrants increase, providing fodder to “enterprising politicians” eager to ride a wave of populist resentment into power by promising to further tighten borders.
“Given the conditions of prejudice, inequality, and resentment in the Global North,” he speculated, “I think it’s unlikely that the West will have the political will to help.”
Instead, says Tower, many are investing in tightening their borders, spending as much as two-to-one on border enhancements over and above investments in climate finance that could otherwise help developing nations more effectively weather the damage wrought by climate change.
“You could say that border security is their climate policy,” she said.
That leaves much of the burden on the shoulders of poorer countries, which today host approximately 80% of the more than
100 million displaced peoples worldwide even as they contend with the growing impacts of climate change, which some have estimated to have cost upwards of $6 trillion to the global economy. Most of this, again, has fallen on lowincome countries that have contributed the least to global warming.
Investing in resilience
Hossein Ayazi, Policy Analyst with the Global Justice Program at the Othering & Belonging Institute at the University of California, Berkeley, shares responses to a survey on how climate and community resilience can be created in Africa and other formerly colonized nations.
For Hossein Ayazi, policy analyst with the Global Justice program at the University of California, Berkeley, this confluence of intertwined forces – what many have taken to calling the “polycrisis” – leads to several important questions, chief among them: how are Global South countries building resilience to the climate crisis?
Earlier this year, Ayazi and his colleagues published the results of a survey looking at how environmental and agricultural organizations across Africa are tackling this question. Many pointed to the emergence of localized economies built around sustainable food systems and a shift away from reliance on resource extraction – including fossil fuels – which has typically enriched wealthier countries at the cost of local ecosystems and the global climate.
“This means actually transforming the very conditions that force displacement itself,” said Ayazi, noting that support for such efforts by wealthier countries is “key to addressing both the climate crisis and to mitigating climateinduced migration.”
incredible week-long experience that shows off the city of Green Bay and the state of Wisconsin.”
National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell speaks during his State of the League Address Wednesday, January 30, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by: Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice)
During the NFL League meetings, The Shield announced the 2025 NFL Draft will be held at legendary Lambeau Field. This is part of NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell’s idea to spread the springtime festival of football throughout the country.
“The Draft has become our biggest offseason event hosted in different cities and spectacular locations across the country, and we are excited to work with the Packers and Discover Green Bay to bring the 2025 NFL Draft to Green Bay and iconic Lambeau field,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement. “With the help of numerous local partners on the ground, our prospects and fans will be treated to an
The NFL Draft was held in New York City from 1965-2014. In 2015, the NFL took the NFL Draft to the Auditorium Theatre at Roosevelt University and Grant Park in Chicago, kicking off the annual tour which saw the event travel to Dallas, Las Vegas, Nashville, and recently Kansas City.
“This is an incredible day for the Packers, Greater Green Bay and the entire state of Wisconsin as we are excited and honored to be selected to host the 2025 NFL Draft,” said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy. “The Packers have a rich and proud history that goes back to the early days of the NFL and are the only community owned team. That connection to our League’s heritage combined with the great passion Packers fans will bring will make the Draft a memorable event for those in attendance and NFL fans watching around the world.”
Super Bowl LX heads to the San Francisco Bay Area
The Bay Area will host their third Super Bowl as the NFL owners agreed upon Levi’s Stadium to host Super Bowl LX in 2026. Stanford University hosted Super Bowl XIX in 1985 when the San Francisco 49ers beat the Miami Dolphins to win the franchise’s second Lombardi Trophy in four seasons. Additionally, Levi’s Stadium hosted Super Bowl 50 in 2016 when the Denver Broncos beat the Carolina Panthers.
“The Bay Area was an incredible host for Super Bowl 50, and we are thrilled to bring the Super Bowl back,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement on Monday. “We look forward to working with the 49ers and the Bay Area Host Committee to create an impactful Super Bowl LX in 2026 that showcases all the great things the region has to offer.”
Additionally, Levi’s Stadium is one of the host sites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The post NFL announces the 2025 Draft will head to Green Bay; The Bay Area hosts Super Bowl LX appeared first on The Atlanta Voice.
in focus groups reported never receiving “the talk” from parents or caregivers. Conversations about health should be ongoing discussions and go beyond the topic of the birds and the bees. It is also important to address topics such as consent, healthy relationships, body image, and diverse sexual identities and experiences.
Discuss and model consent
to be saved. NOW is a time of mercy.” This is your opportunity NOW! Don’t waste or ignore it. Repent NOW! You’ve been extended a season of grace. No more playing around. No more hypocrisy. It's put up or shut up time. The terrible day of the Lord is near and swiftly it comes.
As Paul Yelled - Wake Up! Time is running out. It is closer than when we first believed. The night is just about to be over, and it is daytime. [Romans 13:11; Zephaniah 1:14-19]. Be anxious about your soul, because if you are not, remember what Christ said, the lost soul will suffer the
most dreadful agonies—and will suffer them forever. The body will suffer with the soul—and be its companion in the most bitter torments to all eternity! Wake Up! For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? [Mark 8:34-38].
Physically Awake but Spiritually Asleep! So according as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear; unto this day.' [Romans 11:7-8].
(BPRW) The 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ Presented by Coca-Cola® Celebrates Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary with Partners AT&T®, Disney, L’Oréal and Target...continued
seen and felt through impactful and diverse experiences, honoring top artists and creators in Hip-Hop who have contributed to its worldwide influence.
everyday. We are looking forward to our attendees experiencing how each partner brings the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop to life in their own unique ways, at this year’s festival.”
Nomsa Khalfani, Ph.D.It’s natural to want what’s best for your children and to witness the young people raised by or around you grow into healthy, thriving adults. But we all know from personal experience that adolescence can be a challenging time full of physical and emotional changes, peer pressure, and risky behavior.
As a parent and former social worker, I understand the importance of supporting youth during their challenging teenage years. I’ve seen and heard how difficult it can be to navigate this landscape, and today's kids face even more obstacles than previous generations. From the rise of cyberbullying to the ongoing attack on sexual and reproductive rights, young people must deal with a range of issues that threaten their health and well-being— that’s where we step in.
May is National Adolescent Health Month, an opportunity for adults to be advocates and allies, and acknowledge youth's essential role in building our communities and shaping the future. It is critical that we, as parents and caregivers, prioritize their health by taking an active role in supporting them to make informed choices. Here are five ways we can provide the environment and support that young people need to achieve optimal health:
Prioritize mental health
Teens can feel misunderstood and dismissed when they try to express their internal struggles to adults, especially when told that they’re being dramatic or over-the-top as a response. We can break the stigma around mental health and show support by actively listening, reassuring them that their feelings are valid, and connecting them with counseling resources and mental health services.
Create a safe space to talk about sexual and reproductive health
Building relationships and creating comfortable environments can help encourage young people to ask questions and seek accurate information on sexual and reproductive health from adults they trust. According to TeenSource, an adolescent health and equity promotion program, over two-thirds of teens
Consent is essential in all aspects of life, especially regarding sexual health and relationships. We must teach young people the importance of respecting boundaries, asking for consent, and being aware of power dynamics. As advocates of youth, we should set examples and model consent in our interactions with others to help them understand healthy relationships and what they should look like.
Protect access to services and information
We must fight to ensure that teens have access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services and information, including contraception, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and treatment. Moreover, we must equip them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the healthcare system and connect to care when needed.
Programs like TeenSource help provide a safe space for young people to amplify their voices and seek answers to questions regarding care, sexual health, relationships, and other topics. To learn more, visit teensource. org.
Promote health and safety if sexually active
Sexual activity is a natural part of adolescent development. In addition to ensuring access to services and information, we can support youth in making informed decisions about sexual health by encouraging the use of condoms and other forms of contraception to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies. We can also promote the importance and safety of the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent cancer and other health problems that can impede their future.
Supporting adolescent health requires a community effort.
We have a vital role in creating a supportive and empowering environment for teens. Let's work together to ensure that all adolescents have the information, resources, and support they need to be healthy and thrive. For more information on how to communicate openly with youth, visit talkwithyourkids.org.
Nomsa Khalfani, Ph.D., is Co-CEO of Essential Access Health, a non-profit organization that champions health equity and quality sexual and reproductive health care for all through a broad range of programs and services.
Wake your behind up and pay attention! All hell is about to break loose! We are hurling towards disaster. A New World Order is emerging, and it will bring about more disorder, more destruction, and more death.
Understand, the major battle we face in this life is not what is
In a shocking display of blatant racism, the Tennessee Congress recently voted to remove two Black elected officials, Justin Pearson and Justin Jones, from their positions in the Tennessee House of Representatives for using a bullhorn to protest gun violence on the floor. Their protest came following one of the latest mass shootings that left six dead at a Christian elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee.
This decision came after they, along with their white colleague Gloria Johnson, spoke out against discriminatory practices in the state. While Johnson was not met with the same level of discipline, Pearson and Jones were targeted and ousted in a move reminiscent of historical racist behaviors (Southern Poverty Law Center, n.d.). Fortunately, public outrage led to their reinstatement, but the microaggressions they continue to experience demonstrate that the fight for social justice is far from over.
It is deeply concerning that in 2023, Black elected officials can be removed from their positions simply for speaking out against injustice. The Tennessee Congress’s decision echoes past racist practices that have sought to silence and marginalize Black voices, particularly in the context of the long history of racial discrimination and civil rights abuses in the American South (Southern Poverty Law Center, n.d.).
The disparate treatment of Pearson, Jones, and Johnson further highlights the systemic racism that permeates our political institutions. Johnson, who is white, faced less severe consequences for her advocacy, while her Black colleagues were immediately targeted for removal. This double standard underscores the continued racial bias that exists within our political systems and institutions.
Following their reinstatement, Pearson stated in a Vanity Fair interview on April 19, 2023 that he and Jones have both been subjected to a barrage of microaggressive behaviors from their colleagues, including having
their microphones turned off while speaking. These actions serve as a clear message that despite their reinstatement, their voices are not truly valued or respected by their peers.
This incident serves as a stark reminder that we must continue to fight for racial justice and hold those in power accountable. The removal and subsequent maltreatment of Pearson and Jones should serve as a wakeup call to the insidious nature of racism within our political institutions. As social justice advocates, we must challenge these systems and demand equitable representation and treatment for all, regardless of race. As we move forward, we must remain vigilant and unrelenting in our pursuit of racial justice. We must continue to call out instances of racial bias and discrimination, whether overt or subtle, and demand accountability from those in positions of power. Silence in the face of injustice only serves to perpetuate the status quo.
It is up to each of us to speak up and out against racism and discrimination. Our collective voices have the power to create change, as evidenced by the reinstatement of Pearson and Jones. If we do not continue to challenge these injustices, we risk allowing similar tactics to silence the voice of justice advocates in the future. We cannot allow this incident to fade into the background. Instead, let it serve as a rallying cry for continued action and advocacy for racial justice. Together, we have the power to reshape our political institutions and create a more equitable future for all.
Sources:
Southern Poverty Law Center. (n.d.). Civil Rights Movement. Retrieved from https://www. splcenter.org/news/2023/04/17/ tennessee-three-attempt-silencelawmakers-strikes-heartdemocracy
(BPRW) The 2023 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ Presented by Coca-Cola®
The 29th annual festival will feature new and returning daytime performances, summits, panels, and more, helmed by the world’s most inspirational artists, influencers and experts. Attendees will receive a reminder of Hip-Hop’s unquestionable global impact on every aspect of culture–from the freshest fits to the swaggiest kicks to the hits that are lit–through daytime programming, partner activations and nightly shows. Activities include the ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival, AFROPUNK: ESSENCE Festival of CultureTM Edition, ESSENCE Center Stage, ESSENCE Marketplace, New Voices Village, Community Corner, ESSENCE Authors, Global Black Economic Forum and Village, Girl’s United House, ESSENCE Family Day: The Block and more. Furthering ESSENCE’S long-standing can’t stop, won’t stop commitment to creating economically beneficial opportunities to local Black-owned businesses, the multi-generational festival will showcase brands entrenched in culture, equity and celebration. The evening performances at the Caesar’s Superdome will culminate with the festival’s first all-Black women in HipHop headliners and legendary names forever etched in HipHop’s rich history including Ms. Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott and Megan Thee Stallion. Alongside these iconic women in Hip-Hop, there will be performances by this year’s stacked line-up for a weekend filled with present-day vibes and back in the day jams to bust a move to every night.
“As ESSENCE continues its mission to return Blackness to Greatness, we have to show appreciation to the valued sponsors and partners that work with us to make the ESSENCE Festival of CultureTM presented by Coca-Cola®, a major success year after year,” said Pauline Malcolm-Thornton, Chief Revenue Officer at Essence Ventures. “The overwhelming desire to invest in the economic growth and social equity of the Black diaspora is evident with each of these corporate partners, and we couldn’t be more thankful for their contributions each and
The following 2023 ESSENCE Festival of CultureTM presented by Coca-Cola® sponsors will partner across the four-day event, for another year filled with activations that will amplify and give flowers to those who uplift the Black community. All powered by creativity, reverence and longevity that embodies the last true American artform–HipHop…in its golden anniversary. Word up.
The Coca-Cola CompanyPresenting Partner
The Coca-Cola Company proudly stands by the Essence Festival of CultureTM for the 28th year to support Black women in ways that empower her life, legacy, community and culture.
AT&T® - Major Sponsor
Connecting changes everything. The AT&T Dream in Black experience connects festival goers to a community of inspiration and a celebration of culture through a hip hop lens, empowering people to greater possibility.
Disney - Major Sponsor
The Walt Disney Company returns to the ESSENCE Festival of CultureTM as a major entertainment sponsor to celebrate Black culture and community across its brands, content, talent, and experiences through performances, panels and more.
L’Oréal - Major Sponsor
L'Oréal joins ESSENCE to celebrate the powerful influence and impact of Black culture on beauty expression and to promote a more inclusive vision of beauty.
Target - Major Sponsor
Target returns to celebrate Black culture, Black business and Black joy. In Target fashion, we’re bringing a vibe that will center Black women and feel like family – like home.
Tickets for the 2023 ESSENCE Festival of CultureTM presented by Coca-Cola® are on sale at www.ESSENCEFestival.com, where attendees can also find festival information & updates. Join the conversation on social @ ESSENCEFest or experience the festival virtually on ESSENCE. com.
New ALMA’S WAY, MOLLY OF DENALI, and READY JET GO! movies, the launch of new KEYSHAWN SOLVES IT podcast, and more will keep the fun and learning going strong – all season long
Lifestyle News
Arlington, VA, May 23, 2023
seen but what is not seen. I tell you, it’s about to get real. As the globalists told us at the outbreak of the virus, “the world will never go back to normal again.”
For the first time in history, every biblical prophecy leading up to the arrival of the New World Order has been fulfilled. What has not been accomplished militarily is being achieved through international trade agreements, illegal immigration, and the influence of a secular media that has become a partner in Satan’s deception. I tell you, “NOW Is the time
Celebrates Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary with Partners AT&T®, Disney, L’Oréal and Target
(Black PR Wire) NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-
- It's about to go down at the 2023 ESSENCE Festival of CultureTM presented by CocaCola®. This year's four-day event will celebrate Hip-Hop's undeniable legacy with new and returning experiences from longstanding presenting sponsor, Coca-Cola®, and major partners AT&T®, Disney, L’Oréal and Target. From June 29 to July
3, festival goers are invited to break out their Gazelle glasses, freshen up their Shell-Toes and dust off their boombox, in honor of the 50th year of Hip-Hop, both in-person in New Orleans and virtually on ESSENCE.com.
The 2023 ESSENCE Festival of CultureTM presented by CocaCola® is more than a celebration of music; it’s a celebration of culture, and that energy will be
– Summer is almost here and whether it’s making sidewalk art, playing in the backyard, building a pillow fort, taking a road trip, or learning something new, the warmer months are a time of exploration for kids, families, and educators alike – and, as always, PBS KIDS is along for the ride. From new movies from ALMA’S WAY, MOLLY OF DENALI, and READY JET GO!, debuting episodes from newest series WORK IT OUT WOMBATS! and ROSIE’S RULES, to the launch of a new podcast, KEYSHAWN SOLVES IT, and more, there’s so much on tap to help young audiences spark their curiosity, have fun, and learn and grow this summer.
“Summer is a perfect time for families to play and discover together, and we’re so excited to present brand-new content, activities, and resources to help inspire and support them in all their exploration this season,” said Sara DeWitt, Senior Vice President and General Manager, PBS KIDS. “From adventuring with friends like Alma and Molly to getting inspired to explore
something new, PBS KIDS is a trusted resource for supporting summer fun and learning, wherever kids and families are.”
And for families who love to listen together, a new podcast from GBH Kids and distribution partner PRX, KEYSHAWN SOLVES IT, is set to launch on May 29. Created and executive produced by Ed Jenkins and executive produced by Dorothea Gillim, the free, serialized podcast is about a 10-year-old African-American boy who inherits a set of keys that he uses to help solve the mystery of disappearing bikes in his North Minneapolis neighborhood. It also introduces young listeners to Juneteenth and its origins while reinforcing important lessons that are “keys to success,” such as resilience, self-worth, and responsibility. The podcast will include 8 episodes and will roll out twice weekly on the PBS KIDS Video App, PBS KIDS YouTube channel, and all major podcasting platforms. The summer fun continues with: “Alma Goes to Puerto
In the U.S., 26 million women aged 15 to 50 have uterine fibroids, or benign growths of the uterus, and more than half of those women will experience associated symptoms and health risks.
For African American women, the lifetime incidence of fibroids is even higher. They tend to have fibroids diagnosed at earlier ages, and they are more likely to present symptoms.
African American women also have higher rates of hospitalizations due to their fibroids, as well as higher rates of myomectomies and hysterectomies, compared to their White counterparts.
July officially marks the beginning of Fibroid Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the under-discussed condition and the challenges it causes and inform women about treatment options they may be incognizant of.
In women, fibroids can vary in size, location and symptoms.
According to Dr. Brianna Walton, urogynecologist and medical director for female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at UM Capital Region Health, a majority of African American women don’t even know they have them.
The most common symptoms associated with uterine fibroids include heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, painful sex, constipation and bladder issues. Fibroids may also cause challenges to conception and pregnancy.
Race is one of the main risk factors for uterine fibroids, as Black women have fibroids
at higher rates than their counterparts. They are more likely to have larger fibroids, as well as more-severe symptoms.
Aside from being a woman of reproductive age, other risk factors for fibroids include obesity, family history of uterine fibroids, vitamin D deficiency and high blood pressure.
Active surveillance is crucial to ensuring uterine fibroids are properly managed and treated, according to Walton. Women can also eat a plant-based diet and control their weight to protect themselves from fibroids.
In recent years, more minimally invasive procedures have been developed to treat uterine fibroids. Dr. O. Lawrence Stitt, medical director of minimally invasive gynecological surgery at UM Capital Region Health, said in the past, a hysterectomy was the recommended treatment
for fibroids.
Now, surgeons like Dr. Stitt can treat fibroids without removing or disturbing the uterus so women can still have children.
In March, Stitt became the first doctor in Prince George’s County to perform a laparoscopic uterine fibroid ablation. During the procedure, surgeons insert a small needle through the skin and into the fibroid and apply heat to shrink it.
For 30 to 60 days, the fibroid will continue to diminish in size and ultimately drastically decrease the symptoms women were suffering from.
If women do not want a fibroid ablation, they also have the option of receiving a robotic-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy. For that procedure, doctors use the da Vinci surgical system for increased visualization to remove fibroids.
Patients experience minimal blood loss, they are allowed to go home the same day and they fully recover in seven to 10 days.
In July, UM Capital Region Health will open its new Fibroid and Pelvic Pain Center, and Stitt will serve as its medical director.
The health care provider decided to open the center after discovering that a majority of women had to drive outside of Prince George’s County to see uterine fibroid specialists.
The center was created to treat patients who are currently suffering from fibroids, evaluate family members of patients suffering from fibroids and assess patients who experience pelvic pain, which could be due to endometriosis.
Aside from uterine fibroid specialists and minimallyinvasive treatments, the center will also have a nutritionist to help women develop a diet to manage their fibroids and radiologists to perform procedures for patients who are not appropriate candidates for surgery.
“My immediate goal is to provide education to the community. My feeling is that giving information to patients and empowering patients to make a decision that improves their health allows them to also share with family members, and overall, affect not just that person but the entire family and thus spread out to the entire community,” said Stitt. “Fibroid awareness is our number one goal.”
PBS KIDS Invites Kids and Families to Come Along on a Summer of Adventure...continued from page 7 Rico,” an hour-long movie from ALMA’S WAY that follows Alma as she travels to Puerto Rico with her family to celebrate her Bisabuela’s 100th birthday. She searches for the perfect birthday present, explores the San Juan and Loíza areas, and dances Bomba on the beach, all while learning even more about Puerto Rico and her heritage (June 5).
New episodes from ROSIE’S RULES (June 26).
• “Wise Raven & Old Crow,” a one-hour MOLLY OF DENALI movie that follows Molly and her family as they embark on a river trip to a traditional Gwich’in village to honor their late Grandma Catherine. Getting there won’t be easy, so Molly must connect with her culture and listen to the land to get everyone there safely (July 10).
• “Space Camp” a brandnew, out-of-this-world, featurelength film from READY JET GO!, timed to the anniversary of the moon landing (July 20).
New episodes from WORK IT OUT WOMBATS! (July 24).
New games coming this summer include: “Boom Boom Bah / ¡Tutún Pà!” from ALMA’S WAY.
Make music with Alma and her family in Puerto Rico! An update to this bilingual game brings new decorations, songs and instruments added for players to make remixes with Alma, Junior, and Prima Yvette. “Rosie Care” from ROSIE’S RULES. Join Rosie as she helps with important caretaking jobs and routines – no job is too small! Take care of Dragon the bunny, help Iggy get ready for bed, water Tía’s jalapeño plant, pet Gatita, and more. Players will use tools and supplies to learn about the difference between needs and wants – all while keeping everyone happy and healthy.
• “Elmo and Grover’s Farm Time Fun” from SESAME STREET. Explore the farm with Elmo and Grover! Learn about farm life as you help them plant and harvest food, sort animals, and even make a farm stand band!
Families can also visit pbskidsforparents.org/summer for activities and everyday fun, including resources for parents and caregivers to help extend the learning beyond the classroom this summer. Parents can stream PBS KIDS for free anytime, whether at home or on the go.