Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 122

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ISSUE 122 VOLUME 21

May 6-19, 2021

SERVING THE CARIBBEAN AND HISPANIC COMMUNITIES!

Stop Gender Violence in Jamaica: The Need for Change is Urgent Understanding The U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021 ....14

BY DR BEVERLY GORDON

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was shocked to read the various news reports of gender-based violence occurring in recent weeks in Jamaica, and especially a report by the United Nations that 700 new cases of genderbased violence were reported in Jamaica between March and April 2020. Fear, intimidation, and a subtle normalizing of

continued on page 10

Tidal Wave of Pressure on Biden to Redesignate TPS for Haiti ....2

Remember Arleigh Lousion? Beware of Immigration Fraud

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ederal law enforcement agents arrested Arleigh Louison on July 18, 2019, and he was indicted in Vermont on 12 counts of making false statements and submitting over 1,800 fraudulent immigration applications to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Louison

continued on page 15

NYC Elections: Meet the Candidates .... 27

AG James Probes Toxic Substances in Baby Foods ....5

Knowledge is Power when you use it!

Get a FREE Consultation!

Ask the Lawyer:

Call 855-768-8845

4-page Save Your Home from Foreclosure ....17

Brian Figeroux, Esq., Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association

Why People Divorce Within a Year of Marrying ....25

Issues and Barriers Confronting Pregnant Women of Color ....6

Helping Your Child Cope in the Midst of a Divorce ....11

Bob Marley Legacy Series Nominated for a Webby ....23

Celebrating National Tourism and Travel Week ....26

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CARIBBEAN SPECIAL REPORT Caribbean Consulates Anguilla 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0200 Antigua & Barbuda 305 East 47th Street, Suite 6A New York, N.Y. 10020 Tel: 212-541-4117 The Bahamas 231 East 46th Street New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-421-6420 Barbados 820 Second Avenue, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-551-4325 Belize 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1911 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-593-0999 Dominica 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400H New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-949-0853 Dominican Republic 1500 Broadway, Suite 410 New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-599-8478 Grenada 685 Third Avenue, Suite 1101 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-599-0301 Guyana 308 West 38th Street New York, N.Y. 10018 Tel: 212-947-5119 Haiti 815 Second Avenue,6th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-697-9767 Jamaica 767 Third Avenue, 2nd Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-935-9000 Martinique 444 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-838-6887 Montserrat 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0200 Panama 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 20th Floor New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-840-2450 St. Kitts & Nevis 414 East 75th Street, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10021 Tel: 212-535-5521 St. Lucia 800 Second Avenue, 9th Floor New York, N.Y. 10007 Tel: 212-697-9360 St. Maarten 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1807 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 800-786-2278 St. Vincent & The Grenadines 801 Second Avenue, 21st Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-687-4981 Trinidad & Tobago 125 Maiden Lane, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10038 Tel: 212-682-7272 For more Consulate information go to www.cawnyc.com/directory

2

Tidal Wave of Pressure on Biden Administration to Act Urgently to Redesignate Haiti for TPS

BY AMERICA’S VOICE

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n April 27, 69 U.S. Representatives signed on to a letter sent to Secretary of State Anthony Blinken expressing “serious and urgent concerns” about the rapidly deteriorating conditions in Haiti and urging the redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for the country.

Hundreds of advocates continued to escalate their pressure with a separate letter organized by the Haitian Bridge Alliance Tuesday asking the Biden Administration to immediately redesignate Haiti for TPS, citing the deteriorating conditions and human rights abuses taking place on the island.

The letters come just weeks after Reps.

Albio Sires (D-NJ) and Mario DiazBalart (FL-25) sent a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and another by Senators Bob Menendez (DNJ) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) urging TPS redesignation for Haiti. Combined, these efforts signal an overwhelming outcry of support for the Biden Administration to immediately stop deportations to Haiti and urgently protect current Haitian TPS holders and those already here in the U.S. who would benefit from a TPS redesignation.

Below are key excerpts from the 69 members of the U.S. House of Representatives: “We write to express our serious and urgent concerns regarding the quickly deteriorating situation in Haiti. Although we appreciate your personal engagement with Haiti, and the State Department’s recent criticism of some of the unconstitutional actions by the administration of President Jovenel Moïse, we believe it is past time for a more significant review of U.S. policy in Haiti. … Listen to the voices of Haitian civil society and grassroots organizations, who have been clear that no elections under the current administration in Haiti will be free, fair, and credible. The State Department should instead focus on the underlying democratic legitimacy issues identified by Haiti’s civil society and support a Haiti-led process for change.

Elections held without meeting internationally accepted standards for participation and legitimacy will only further undermine faith in democratic governance, waste scarce resources and perpetuate a cycle of political instability and violence. … Support the redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian migrants living in the U.S. and put a temporary freeze on all Title 42 related expulsions to Haiti. We note that,

Cap-Haïtien, Haiti - January 12, 2009 : Men on the background of the city wall. Haiti is recognized as one of the poorest countries on Earth. Editorial credit: Serhii Mykhalchuk / Shutterstock.com

amid the current political crisis, the Department of Homeland Security has expelled more than an estimated 1,500 individuals to Haiti just since early February, despite awareness that those returned to Haiti “may face harm.” It is vital that the U.S. comply with U.S. and international legal obligations and allow all migrants access to the asylum system.”

The letter signed by hundreds of advocates can be read here, with key excerpts from Rafael Bernal’s reporting on the development below: A group of hundreds of immigration advocates, media personalities, human rights activists and representatives of international non-governmental organizations on Tuesday called on the Biden administration to re-designate Haiti under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program.

In a letter addressed to President Biden, Vice President Harris, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, the group laid out a dire portrait of conditions in Haiti.

“With an increasingly authoritarian president who has been ruling unconstitutionally without a parliament for over a year, now claiming his mandate extends through January 2022, and with wellattended daily protests in response, the political situation is unstable, fragile and extremely dangerous,” wrote the advocates. … A re-designation of Haitian TPS would protect the existing TPS benefici-

aries, plus any Haitian nationals who have arrived to the United States since the last designation in 2017. By most estimates, the number of protected Haitians would more or less double under a new designation.

While campaigning in South Florida in 2020, President Biden promised to review Haiti’s TPS designation, and to stop deportations to the country.

More than 300,000 Haitian Americans are registered to vote in Florida, and that community has close ties to the Haitian documented and undocumented immigrants who would be most affected by a TPS designation.

Still, Biden has avoided a TPS designation for Haiti, while issuing designations for Venezuela, Myanmar and Syria.

“At the same time Venezuela received TPS, Haiti was on the desk,” said Nicole Phillips, legal director of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, which coordinated the letter.

“It was a no-brainer for Venezuela and it’s a no-brainer for Haiti,” added Phillips. … Still, advocates have not received a response on why the administration is holding back on the Haitian TPS designation, a move that on its face would seem a repudiation of Trump’s draconian approach to regional migration.

And the fact that Trump called majority-Black Haiti a “shithole country” angered the U.S. Black community, which sees in the historical treatment of Haiti another example of global antiBlack racism.l

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3

THOUGHTS

Less Outrage at US Caution on Travel – More Action to Open Economies

BY SIR RONALD SANDERS

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. —Hosea 4:6 Publisher I.Q. INC. Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief

Pearl Phillip Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq.

I

n Antigua and Barbuda and Barbados there is outrage in some quarters that the US Embassy, accredited to these countries, has listed them as ‘Level 4 – very high’ for risk of infection with the coronavirus. Under this categorization, the US Embassy cautions their citizens and residents not to travel to these countries.

Even though it may be based on misunderstandings of the criteria being applied by the US Embassy, the outrage is understandable for two reasons. First, Antigua and Barbuda and Barbados rank at 26 and 33 respectively of the countries that have inoculated a high percentage of their population with at least one dose of a vaccine. Antigua and Barbuda have vaccinated 29.4 percent of their inhabitants and Barbados 24.75 percent as of April 22. Second, the numbers of infected persons are declining in both countries.

These factual situations suggest that the two countries should not be on the highest level of caution to US residents who comprise a significant number of the tourists to the Caribbean. However, to be fair to the US Embassy, its travel advisories have been issued in accordance with new measurements issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US. Under those new yardsticks, Antigua and Barbuda and Barbados join eight other Caribbean countries at ‘Level 4’.

These eight countries are among the main Caribbean competitors for US tourism. They are: The Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, US Virgin Islands and Saint Martin. Furthermore, much larger, and richer countries are also on the current ‘Level 4’ list, including Canada, the UK, Germany, Switzerland and Sweden.

Therefore, the ‘Level 4’ categorization should not be regarded as an attempt to disadvantage Antigua and Barbuda or

TEAM

Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Anvaar Sabirov

Barbados.

Through no fault of the governments or the health authorities of the two countries and, despite the herculean efforts that both have made amid gravely declining revenues, the single event that ran afoul of the new CDC criteria is the spike in the number of infected persons over the 28-day cycle, preceding the travel advisory. These spikes took Antigua and Barbuda and Barbados over the threshold set for infected cases per 100 persons of the population.

Regrettably, what this boils down to is the refusal of some sections of the population to follow the rules set down for masking and physical distancing. Those, who have ignored safety rules, contributed to spikes in the number of infected cases. Those, who now refuse to be vaccinated, are ready hosts for the virus to infect. They, too, are contributing to the likelihood of increasing cases.

Governments understand both the frustration that people feel from living in the restrictions, caused by COVID-19, over the last year, as well as the fear that has been generated about being inoculated.

Therefore, they have been systematically trying to ease restrictions, recognizing that no country in the world can eliminate them while the pandemic prevails.

Indeed, until at least 70 to 80 percent of any country’s population is vaccinated, the removal of restrictions, that everyone craves, will not happen. This is why everyone should be willing to endure the restrictions until inoculation reaches

herd immunity.

If the spikes in infection continue because of disregard for safety rules and refusal to be vaccinated, then the US and other countries will be constrained, in their own interest, to recommend that their people do not visit.

What all this says is that people in the Caribbean can influence the level of caution at which their countries are placed by the CDC in the US and by agencies in other countries. Those who choose to ignore the safety rules are endangering their own health and the persons with whom they are in most contact. They are also imperiling the livelihoods of everyone else in their countries by delaying the time when the economies can open, bringing back jobs; generating income and savings; and restoring freedom.

An observation of Dominican-born, Dr Carissa Etienne, the indefatigable director of the Pan American Health Organization, is worth recalling: “Every person that is hesitant to get the vaccine can become part of the sad statistics – one of the thousands of deaths that occur daily due to COVID-19”.

Given the current dire circumstances of most Caribbean economies, particularly the ones highly dependent on tourism, they need to open soon to have any chance of shortening a painful period to recovery.

Conversations will be held with the CDC in the coming days by diplomatic representatives like me and agents of health authorities – as has happened in

Contributors Jennine Estes Erin Telesford Janet Howard Mary Campbell Tarsha Gibbons Travis Morales Email info@myiqinc.com Telephone 718-771-0988 Website www.cawnyc.com the past – to review the level at which Caribbean countries are listed. The CDC has no interest in harming Caribbean countries. Once the rate of infection is reduced and testing and inoculations continue, the agency will adjust the level.

How soon Caribbean countries get to Levels 2 and 1, removing travel cautions, is dependent on how committed Caribbean people are to making themselves as free as possible of the coronavirus.

This is not a time to be outraged at the efforts of others to protect their own; it is a time for Caribbean people to do everything necessary to protect themselves.l

Sir Ronald Sanders is currently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United States of America and the Organization of American States (since 2015).

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CIVIL RIGHTS

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Protecting Against Police Brutality and Official Misconduct

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n April 29, 2021, the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law published a new report, Protecting Against Police Brutality and Official Misconduct, which analyzes why 18 U.S.C. § 242 (Section 242 of the federal criminal code) makes it is so difficult to prosecute police and corrections officers who engage in civil rights violations. The proposal, authored by former federal prosecutor and Brennan Center senior counsel Taryn Merkl, includes recommendations for Congress to enact a more robust statutory framework to protect the constitutional rights of people who come into contact with public officials, including those who are being arrested or are in custody.

Here is the forward written by former Attorney General, Eric Holder: The protest movement sparked by George Floyd’s killing last year has forced a nationwide reckoning with a wide range of deep-rooted racial inequities — in our economy, in health care, in education, and even in our democracy — that undermine the American promise of freedom and justice for all. That tragic incident provoked widespread demonstrations and stirred strong emotions from people across our nation.

Editorial credit: Luigi Morris / Shutterstock.com

While our state and local governments wrestle with how to reimagine relationships between police and the communities they serve, the Justice Department has long been hamstrung in its ability to mete out justice when people’s civil rights are violated.

The Civil Rights Acts passed during Reconstruction made it a federal crime to deprive someone of their constitutional rights while acting in an official capacity, a provision now known as Section 242.

Today, when state or local law enforcement are accused of misconduct, the federal government is often seen as the best avenue for justice — to conduct a neutral investigation and to serve as a backstop when state or local investigations falter.

I’m proud that the Justice Department pursued more Section 242 cases under

my leadership than under any other attorney general before or since.

But due to Section 242’s vague wording and a series of Supreme Court decisions that raised the standard of proof needed for a civil rights violation, it’s often difficult for federal prosecutors to hold law enforcement accountable using this statute.

This timely report outlines changes to Section 242 that would clarify its scope, making it easier to bring cases and win convictions for civil rights violations of these kinds. Changing the law would allow for charges in cases where prosecutors might currently conclude that the standard of proof cannot be met. Perhaps more important, it attempts to deter potential future misconduct by acting as

a nationwide reminder to law enforcement and other public officials of the constitutional limits on their authority.

The statutory changes recommended in this proposal are carefully designed to better protect civil rights that are already recognized. And because Black, Latino, and Native Americans are disproportionately victimized by the kinds of official misconduct the proposal addresses, these changes would advance racial justice.

This proposal would also help ensure that law enforcement officers in every part of the United States live up to the same high standards of professionalism. I have immense regard for the vital role that police play in all of America’s communities and for the sacrifices that they and their families are too often called to make on behalf of their country. It is in great part for their sake — and for their safety — that we must seek to build trust in all communities.

We need to send a clear message that the Constitution and laws of the United States prohibit public officials from engaging in excessive force, sexual misconduct, and deprivation of needed medical care. This proposal will better allow the Justice Department to pursue justice in every appropriate case, across the country. l

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5

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

AG James Probes Toxic Substances Found in Baby Food Sold in New York

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EW YORK: New York Attorney General Letitia James launched a probe this week into several manufacturers of baby food regarding high levels of inorganic arsenic found in infant rice cereal products. In response to widespread concern regarding toxic metals found in baby food, Attorney General James requested information from the companies that make Gerber, Beech-Nut, Earth’s Best Organic (Hain), and HappyBABY (Nurture) brands, to examine whether the infant rice cereal products that are sold in New York contain arsenic at levels exceeding the legal maximum under the law. Attorney General James is also seeking information about the advertising and promotion of the products to assess their compliance with New York’s consumer protection laws.

“No child should be exposed to toxic substances in their food,” said Attorney General James. “Baby food manufacturers have a legal and moral obligation to ensure the safety of their products, and provide peace-of-mind to the parents who rely on their products every day.

Through this probe, I am committed to protecting the health and wellness of the next generation.”

Arsenic and other toxic substances in

EMERGENCY MEDICAID

baby food pose risks for the health and development of infants and young children. Continued exposure can affect a child’s brain development, behavior, and intelligence quotient (IQ) in the longterm.

The U.S. House of Representatives Oversight and Reform Committee’s Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy recently published a report showing the presence of toxic metals — specifically inorganic arsenic,

lead, cadmium, and mercury — in infant rice cereal products made by leading U.S. baby food companies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now advises, through “action level guidance,” that inorganic arsenic in rice cereal for infants be limited to 100 parts per billion. This is currently the only action level FDA has in effect for toxic substances in baby food.

In her letters, the Attorney General asks

TENANT PROTECTION

the companies — which include some of the largest baby food manufacturers in the United States — to provide information on inorganic arsenic levels as well as their practices, policies, and standards regarding testing for inorganic arsenic in its infant rice cereal products and ingredients sold in the state of New York. The Attorney General has also asked the companies to provide all information related to any advertising materials pertaining to infant rice cereal products, and communications they have had with various parties concerning inorganic arsenic in infant rice cereal.

The inquiry announced today is a continuation of Attorney General James’ efforts to ensure the safety of baby foods and to protect the health and well-being of infants and young children in New York and across the country. In February, the Attorney General urged the FDA to follow recent congressional recommendations to adopt protective federal standards for all baby food, not just rice cereal, and to require all baby food manufacturers to test their finished products for toxic metals rather than testing just individual ingredients.l

FOOD ASSISTANCE

SUPPORT. NOT FEAR.

COVID-19 TESTING, VACCINE AND CARE

FREE LEGAL HELP

All New Yorkers can access health care and social services regardless of immigration status, ability to pay or employment status.

Learn more at nyc.gov/immigrants or call 311.

Questions about immigration and use of public benefits?

Call ActionNYC at 1-800-354-0365 for connections to City-funded, free and confidential immigration legal help.

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6

DIASPORA CONCERNS

Pregnant During a Pandemic: Issues and Barriers Confronting Women of Color

BY LINDA N., SPECIAL TO CAW

B

rooklyn, NY: "In case I don't come back or make it, please make sure that my baby is sent to my mother," said Sharon to her friend, as she passed on her barely 4-month-old baby to her, preparing for the admittance into the hospital.

Sharon's mind roamed as she recalled the journey to becoming a mother, how she delivered a long-desired baby boy in November 2020 after trying to get pregnant for almost five years. Her mind went through months of roller-coasting emotions, characterized by feelings of disappointment, anxiety, sadness, and near despair. She got diagnosed as depressed and was placed on medication.

Her mind also recalled the moment and the shock that rushed through her body when she realized back in April that she was pregnant, the joy felt, when she realized that the delayed monthly period was not merely anxiety-induced from the frightening daily updates of the ravaging pandemic. Despite her delight, Sharon couldn't shake off the feelings of apprehension for the journey ahead.

Questions like, where do I go for antenatal care? Who will be my doctor? Will it be a natural birth, or should I consider a Caesarean? Whom can I talk to about my concerns? All these questions raced through Sharon's mind at the time. More importantly, is it safe to continue to take these drugs? Sharon then decided to discontinue taking her antidepressant medications without seeking any medical advice.

Fast forward to the present. It was a terrifying period. Luckily, Sharon pulled through and had a safe delivery. However, trouble started when a few months after delivery, she could not sleep, eat, and lost interest in everything around her. Life became a real struggle; mustering any interest in anything around her, especially taking care of her baby, was a battle. It wasn't as if she wanted to stop caring, but she just couldn't get herself to despite trying. This dragged on for months.

"I don't know why I had a nervous breakdown at the end of my pregnancy. I made it through the months of isolation due to the pandemic. It was like I hung in there just to have the baby," she recalled telling the psychiatrist, "afterward, I just lost control of everything, and I increasingly feel like harming my baby."

Besides the feelings of impending doom, she also recalled the constant racing heart rate, trembling, and unexplainable sudden onset of weight gain, especially around her lower body. She remembered feeling ashamed to reveal her feelings, especially to her close friends and her spouse, for fear of ridicule. So, she endured in silence. Unfortunately, Sharon didn't realize that going off her medication had contributed to the present condition.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that the U.S.

has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among high-income and developed countries. There are wide disparities by race as recorded by data gathered since the early 1900s, specifically linked to the high death rates among Black mothers.

Unfortunately, black women and their infants are two times more likely to die from pregnancy complications than white women and their infants.

According to the CDC report, in New York City, black women are also more likely to die due to pregnancy complications, which appear significantly higher than the national average compared to white pregnant women.

Correspondingly, a published report in 2021 by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which covered maternal mortality and morbidity over five years, states that in 2017, there were over 100,000 live births, and more than 50 women died in New York City from pregnancy-associated deaths.

Of the reported deaths, 21 were pregnancy-related (numbers that the pandemic might have exacerbated), with the highest causes of death listed as embolisms and mental health conditions followed by cardiovascular disorders. The three areas affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially the lungs, heart, and state of mind.

These were some of the issues discussed by a team of panelists organized through the partnership between the Literacy Zone of the Brooklyn Public Library and Emblem Health. The discussion raised and addressed some of the challenges confronting pregnant women of color and heightened during the pandemic.

Questions from community members about the transmission of COVID-19 to a newborn became top-of-mind. The facilitator, Christina Reid, a certified social worker, and case manager, moderated the discussions. Responding, a combination of Advanced Care Physicians and the Medical Director of EmblemHealth, Dr. Diane Ashton, who specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology, addressed the issues and concerns during the event.

Dr. D. Ashton explained that clinical research findings show that transmission during pregnancy is uncommon from the mother to the unborn baby. Farther to her

response, CDC guidelines show that newborns of mothers who had COVID-19 during their pregnancy rarely have the virus. Even when they do test positive after birth, most of the babies had mild or no symptoms and recovered.

On the question of clinical protocols around pregnancy and childbirth, she confirmed that hospitals adhere to following the protocols, including during delivery and especially at the pandemic's peak.

According to her, "…protocols in hospitals has been high, …if a pregnant woman tests positive during delivery, she will be kept in isolation … and movement around the labor and delivery area will be limited."

There is a general rule of keeping mother and baby together to maximize bonding. It is reconsidered if a mother who tests positive is very sick after childbirth, the newborn is then isolated. "Generally, we keep mother and baby together, but if the mother is sick with COVID, then they can be kept apart, and if the mother is positive and baby is positive, we don't keep them separated."

Noting that the pregnancy journey can be pretty difficult and stressful, some community members wondered where they could seek help if they feel unsupported. As cited in the case study, Sharon felt unsupported from her immediate social support, and many women can identify with the scenario. Factors like cultural values, family patterns, personal beliefs can contribute to a pregnant woman feeling isolated during this period.

One panelist, who is also a community advocate, shared her experience during her pregnancy and journey to delivery during the pandemic. She described the experience as terrifying because of the bedside treatment during the process. She recalled feeling unheard and ignored by the medical experts despite advocating strongly that her concerns need serious consideration. According to Ashley Adams-Forbes, Deputy Director of Social Development, "I truly experienced this. It was just the scariest experience of my life." However, one of the lessons gathered from the process is the importance of strongly advocating for one's life. If the pregnant woman feels that she cannot stand up for herself, she must enlist the help of people who can present her wishes more assertively.

As a practicing professional, Ms. Chinelu Nduka, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, reiterated the importance of relying on one's support system, especially during pregnancy. While being strong and playing different roles, a woman should not hesitate to ask for help, especially during the period. She says,"... I think a lot of times, as women of color, we wear so many hats, we have so many roles…it is imperative, if you get pregnant, or planning to be, you need to rely on support from your support system … lean on your support system and ask for help."

This advice is essential, especially in managing mental health issues, which is

one of the leading causes of maternal and infant mortality. She described the differences between baby blues, which often occur within a few weeks after childbirth, and postpartum depression (PPD). The latter, she explains, is more severe, prolonged, and requires specialized management. She says, "… Baby Blues is experienced within days of giving birth and lasts about two weeks after birth, with crying and generally not feeling well as symptoms. But PPD generally takes a longer time. Symptoms are more severe, crying spells, and more often, the sleep cycle is off with episodes of insomnia or sleeping too much and lasts for months and about a year. It is really important to reach out to your Primary Care Physician (PCP) or OBGYN … or get a referral to a mental health professional...".

Among the numerous issues identified as contributing to maternal mortality among blacks, accessibility to quality healthcare, self-limiting beliefs, inherent biases of medical professionals in the field evidenced in attitudes of white supremacy worsened the situation and often led to dire consequences.

Community members often claim they don't feel comfortable with their PCP. They often cite feelings of unease and sometimes aloofness from their PCP, making them unable to share their concerns and not receive the care needed.

Unanimously, the panelists reiterated the need for every patient and especially pregnant women, to work with a professional they are happy with.

According to Ms. Nduka, "We tend to think that Clinical providers can solve all problems. Some providers don't feel right with their patients, and it is vital to know that you have options. It's good to know that you don't have to continue to see your PCP. Step back and say, "I'm not Ok with that, I feel I am not heard…Talk to someone you trust. You can get a referral to see someone else."

Ms. Adams-Forbes, the community advocate, reiterated the importance of staying strong and not feeling discouraged in self-advocacy and getting the desired care. She emphasized that,"… You have to trust yourself in the process of advocacy. You can't get discouraged. Everybody starts to second guess what you are going through, but as a woman of color, trust what you are feeling, what your body is telling you, also don't allow yourself to be discouraged…".

Furthermore, when the patient feels uncomfortable with their PCP or OBGYN, it is important to start the change process on time, advised Dr. Ashton.

While Ms. Shawnee Benton-Gibson, a social worker and CEO of Spirit of a Woman, advocates the need to remain in tune with oneself, listen to one's biases, and seek help, including therapy when necessary, to help them in processing the solution. She says,"… We have to slow down and allow activities that can help one to process the whole thing".l

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7

DIASPORA CONCERNS

Workers’ Compensation 101

BY TATYANA BELLAMY-WALKER

M

ore than a century ago, pirates were some of the world’s first advocates for workers’ compensation. Known for their trademark eye patches and wooden legs, pirates were paid for bodily losses. While hopefully, your career is not as dangerous as a pirate, if you’re injured on the job, first check out your state’s local protocol.

Workers’ compensation is an insurance or wage replacement offered to employees injured on the job. Under New York State law, workers’ compensation covers employees working in for-profit businesses and excludes most independent contractors. Independent contractors are self-employed workers and not employees.

After an injury, it’s important to first receive medical care from a health care provider designated by the Workers Compensation Board. Within 30 days of the incident, notify the employer in writing about the accident. Then file a claim for worker’s compensation and mail it to the nearest Workers’ Compensation Board.

Whether you slipped on a banana peel, inhaled toxic fumes or strained your back while lifting boxes, there are rules to remember when filing a claim.

Depending on the laws in the state, after a claim, a worker might be drug tested. If the injury was caused by the intoxication, then the benefits can be denied.

On the other hand, small businesses cannot forgo workers’ compensation and may face high fines as well as lawsuits for doing so. Uber is faced a class action lawsuit after one of its California drivers was allegedly attacked on the job. Since Uber classifies workers as independent contractors, the driver is not required to receive worker’s compensation.

This is one of the drawbacks of Uber’s business model of employing independent contractors. While Uber can avoid insuring drivers, they also run the risks of costly lawsuits. This varies from state to state. In New York, however, Uber drivers are given workers’ compensation benefits

under the Black Car Fund, which provides protection and insurance for drivers who are classified as independent contractors.

If an agency is concerned about the cost of workers’ compensation, the penalties for forgoing the costs are far worse.

According to New York State’s Workers’ Board Employee handbook, if you do not carry coverage and you have fewer than five employees within a 12-month period, then you risk a misdemeanor fine between $1,000 and $5,000. If you hire more than five employees and do not provide coverage it is a class D felony and you face a fine between $5,000 and $50,000.

If a business keeps inaccurate payroll records, that can affect worker’s compensation premiums and they may face a penalty of $2,000 for each ten-day period

of non-compliance. These laws do not discriminate against celebrities either. In 2013, TMZ reported that Jim Carrey was fined $72,000 for not providing workers compensation for employees at a New York art studio.

Higher worker’s compensation premiums are most often seen in industries with more dangerous conditions such as construction zones, landscaping or other risk-prone locations.

Here are some quick tips for reducing your worker’s compensation premiums.

First, establish and maintain a safety program to reduce work-related injuries. For example, some employers join a drugfree workplace program regulated under Code Rule 60 of New York State’s Department of Labor. In addition, it is important to be aware of fraudulent claims. If someone is out of work for a knee injury – an investigator might expose that they’re engaging in activities that impede on their safety. Lastly, consider joining a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) to assist in loss control and safety. They are experts in providing administrative support such as payroll processing and human resources.

Reducing injuries not only ensures a safer work environment but allows the owner to build a profitable and sustainable business. l

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HOUSING

8

New York Eviction Moratorium Expected to be Extended to Aug. 31

BY ALLISON DIKANOVIC THE CITY

B

ig news: State lawmakers are expected to extend New York’s eviction moratorium until Aug.

31.

Here’s what to expect The extension means any New York tenant who has submitted a hardship declaration form will be protected from eviction for the next four months. This would buy tenants some time to apply to the state’s rent relief program, which opens up next month. This extension covers everything in the current moratorium passed at the end of last year, including residential foreclosures and tax lien sales.

The vote isn’t happening until Monday, but multiple lawmakers in Albany have told us they fully expect the measure to pass. FYI: It was supposed to be voted on Wednesday, April 28, but there was an error in the bill.

We wanted to let tenants know as soon as possible because May 1, the date when the moratorium was set to expire, is on everyone’s mind.

And even though there technically will be a window between May 1 and when the extension goes into effect, a spokesperson from the state Office of Court Administration told us that courts will “adjust accordingly” — confirming that cases will be paused until the moratorium is back in place.

Why the moratorium is extending Lawmakers acknowledged we’re still in a pandemic, and COVID-19 is still affecting people’s health and incomes.

Meanwhile, the state’s new $2.4 billion rent relief program is not up and running yet. So tenant advocates and lawmakers pushed to extend the current eviction moratorium until people have the chance to apply for relief.

Since lawmakers went through an extensive process to create this rent relief program as part of the state budget, they have a lot of incentive to make sure it’s successful.

The idea is that by the end of August all eligible tenants will have had the opportunity to apply for rent relief, which can cover up to 15 months of rent arrears in full. The relief is believed to be enough to make up all of the rent debt in the state.

All of that is to say: Take a deep breath if you can. Evictions are still paused for those who fill out a hardship declaration, and help is in sight. If your landlord tries to evict you or tells you the moratorium ended on May 1 and that you have to leave, know that you have more time.

You’ll qualify for up to 15 months of rent arrears paid in full if you: •Have experienced financial hardship •Are at risk of homelessness or housing instability •Earn up to 80% of the area median income

Here’s what you need to know to be protected from eviction: •If you’ve submitted the hardship declaration form: You’re good to go until Aug. 31. Your protection is extended automatically. More than 35,000 households in New York City have filed these declarations with the courts so far, and an unknown number of additional households have filed them directly with their landlords to prevent a court case for now.

•If, you haven’t submitted the hardship declaration form: You need to do so to be protected from eviction. You still have time to get the form in.

These folks are at the top of the rent relief list: •Tenants with the lowest incomes •Tenants who are unemployed •Tenants who live in buildings with less than 20 units •Tenants with pending eviction cases •Certain other special groups — including domestic violence victims

Tenants can use Eviction Free NY to submit the declaration form. It’s available in English and Spanish, and you can use the dropdown menu to find the form in more languages through an online form Housing Justice for All made.

You can also find links to the hardship declaration form in 20 languages directly from the courts.

When a hardship declaration is successfully filed, an eviction case can’t move forward, and a new case can’t be started until Aug. 31.

The only exceptions are emergency repair and illegal lockout cases, and cases in which a landlord alleges their tenant is being a nuisance.

So what’s the deal with rent relief?

Applications for the new massive rent relief program will open next month.

Don’t worry, you did not miss your chance to apply.

Anthony Farmer, a spokesperson for the state’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, which is running the rent relief program, said: “We are moving expeditiously to get assistance to New Yorkers who need it most with the expectation that applications will open in May.”

You don’t need to have an eviction case filed against you to qualify for aid.

As soon as you apply, your landlord cannot start an eviction case against you, and any existing eviction cases cannot move forward until you get a decision on your application. If you get the aid, your landlord can’t increase your rent or evict you without cause for a year.

The details of the application process are still unknown. But if you want to be extra prepared, it couldn’t hurt to track down a copy of your current lease or most recent lease agreement, your proof of income and documentation of the rent you owe.

As we said, foreclosures and tax lien sales also remain on pause with the moratorium extension. The state budget that created the rent relief program also included mortgage relief. If you are a homeowner who needs help with bills, you can call the Center for New York City Neighborhood’s homeowner helpline at 1-855-466-3456.

Consequently, it is essential to seek expert judgment, such as getting advice on your income level, knowing your housing rights, research resources.

Relevant nonprofits and agencies such as the NYS Department for Human Rights Housing are good resources. After all, every person should live in a safe and comfortable home without fear of harm or intimidation. l

This story was published on April 29, 2021 by THE CITY.

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LANDLORDS USING CONSTRUCTION AS A FORM OF TENANT HARASSMENT IS ILLEGAL. Renters have rights, including not being intimidated or harassed by landlords.

Construction can be used as a form of tenant harassment. This can include cutting off essential services like heat, hot water, or gas and doing excessively noisy work at odd hours.

The Office of the Tenant Advocate. Enforcing tenants’ rights when landlords are wrong.

TO FILE A COMPLAINT, CALL 311 AND ASK FOR DOB’S OFFICE OF THE TENANT ADVOCATE.

WWW.NYC.GOV/BUILDINGS

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ISLAND FOCUS: JAMAICA

10

Gender Violence/ continued from page 1 the unthinkable continue to make it difficult to hold fully accountable those who perpetrate such awful acts of violence.

There is a dramatic deterioration in the moral fiber of our beloved Jamaican society. This decline is demonstrated by a distressingly high crime rate in general and an embarrassing decrease in respect for women in particular. We are aware of the worldwide increase in domestic violence partly due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Unfortunately, Jamaica has become a part of this global disgrace of gender-based violence.

As a woman, and a part of the Jamaica diaspora, I am outraged by the disregard for women’s basic human rights. Rights for all members of the human family were first articulated in 1948 in the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The document is universal, It applies to all human beings on the face of the earth. I have been a proud Jamaican for over 66 years. It is appalling that I should now have to hang my head in shame at the disgusting disregard for these basic human rights by so many of our men.

It has always been my belief that men who physically attack women are cowards at heart. They continue to rape, beat, and kill women because they have no idea how to cope with the realities of life in productive and meaningful ways. So, they turn their repressed rage on persons

It has always been my belief that men who physically attack women are cowards at heart.

They continue to rape, beat, and kill women because they have no idea how to cope with the realities of life in productive and meaningful ways.

who they perceive to be weaker and less able to retaliate effectively against their immature, deplorable acts of depravity.

This situation is not to be tolerated.

Persons in high office are to set an example of high moral standards. Those who deviate from this societal responsibility must be held accountable. This behavior is not to be swept under the rug or disregarded as unimportant. The hands of law enforcement must not be tied by ineffective laws and policies. Men and women who have the power to create change must stand up and be counted. It is too late for leaders and persons of influence to be overcome by fear and intimidation. The downward moral spiraling of our society

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needs to stop now.

This type of behavior may have been tolerated by women in the past, but it will no longer be tolerated. While women may be regarded as “the weaker vessel” we are strong in numbers and indomitable in determination. Men in Jamaican society need to understand that we will not bring you into the world to become weak-kneed parasites who prey on the vulnerabilities of others to fulfill your desire for power and control. We absolutely will not stand for it. We brought you into the world and we are determined to ensure that men understand and conform to their roles as protectors and defenders of women. We will be respected. The free for all is over.

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I call on all women everywhere to rise up in solidarity against this outrage.

Every woman should feel the need to respond to this crisis. All women are potential victims of gender-based violence. No woman should stand aloof from this problem. Gender-based violence knows no boundaries of age, education, race, or socioeconomic status. As women, we should raise our collective voice and harmonize in our determination to eradicate gender inequality and gender-based violence.

I call upon men in government and other positions of leadership to insist on change. Religious leaders of Jamaica need to stand up and declare justice, liberation, and redemption for the women of Jamaica. It is the responsibility of every Faith leader to be a moral voice, to stand up as a light in the very deep shadows of this dark chapter in our history as a nation. “What does the Lord require of our spiritual leaders? To do justly”.

Common human decency demands that change must happen. This is a national outrage, a moral tragedy. This is not our Jamaica, land we love. Jamaica stands in disgrace today as a country that harbors, condones, and supports corruption and violence. This is not time for just words of outrage though. This is a time for action.

Individuals responsible for violating the rights of women must be held accountable. Persons in positions of authority who physically abuse women are not fit for public service. We in the diaspora are shocked, outraged, and saddened by what our country has become. As supporters of the economic well-being of Jamaica, as ambassadors of our proud Jamaican heritage: we demand justice for the women of Jamaica. We have the ability and strength to build Jamaica. We are not encouraged by the lack of respect for the dignity and worth of every Jamaican woman.

Laws and policies must not only be put in place that protects the most vulnerable in Jamaican society; these laws and policies must be executed effectively.

Educational programs must be implemented that engage minds from early childhood and throughout the life span to embrace values that respect every citizen, that respect human life, that honors women, and elevate families. We need a moral reawakening, a strengthening of resolve, a mandate for change, a moral compass to “teach us true respect for all”, and “guide response to duty call”. I pray that God will “Give us vision lest we perish”. Weed out the bad apples and let Jamaica prosper! No more half-hearted platitudes. No feeble apologies. We need a radical change in our society’s standards of behavior towards women.

The need for change is imperative. It is urgent. The time for change is right now.l

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11

FAMILY MATTERS

Helping Your Child Cope In the Midst of Divorce

BY KATELYN CAMPBELL

D

ivorce is a challenge that thousands of families are faced with each year. As a parent you may feel inclined to shield your child throughout the process of your divorce and there are times that may be necessary. However, more often than not, children need help developing their coping skills and healing through the process more than they need to be shielded from it. Below are a few tips for helping your children heal through this painful time.

1. Be as consistent as possible for your child.

It is easy to get swept away in the paperwork, legalities and emotions of your divorce. Divorce will disrupt your daily routines at times. But your children need consistency now more than ever. It is important for both parents to remain as involved as possible in their child's life.

If you both regularly attended soccer games and recitals—try to continue doing so. Remember to make these special moments about your child and leave any bickering and legal talk out of conversations here.

2. Be willing to address your child's concerns openly.

When you are going through a divorce with children, chances are high that your child will have some challenging questions. It may be painful for you at first, but be willing to speak openly with your child. Remember to keep dialogue regarding their other parent as respectful as possible and be honest with them about the changes that are ahead for your family.

3. Seek professional counseling.

You may be confused as to how this step can be helpful to your child. But one mistake many parents make is seeking

comfort in their children in the midst of the divorce. While it is important that you make an effort to be honest and open with your child about the facts surrounding your divorce, you need to make sure that any negative feelings regarding your divorce remain between you and someone that is qualified to help you sort through them.

Call Equity Smart Realty at 888-670-6791 for a FREE consultation.

In conclusion, though divorces where children are involved can be difficult to navigate — you can still manage to grow and thrive as a family in spite of these new challenges and ultimately, you will all come out of this stronger if you follow the above steps.l

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IN THE NEWS

12

Are Graphene-coated Face Masks a COVID-19 Miracle – or Another Health Risk? icly trap and inactivate some viruses and cells.

•Graphene causes cells to generate oxygen free radicals that can damage them and impairs their cellular metabolism.

BY C. MICHAEL WHITE THE CONVERSATION

A

s a COVID-19 and medical device researcher, I understand the importance of face masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. So I am intrigued that some mask manufacturers have begun adding graphene coatings to their face masks to inactivate the virus. Many viruses, fungi and bacteria are incapacitated by graphene in laboratory studies, including feline coronavirus.

Because SARS CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, can survive on the outer surface of a face mask for days, people who touch the mask and then rub their eyes, nose, or mouth may risk getting COVID-19. So these manufacturers seem to be reasoning that graphene coatings on their reusable and disposable face masks will add some anti-virus protection. But in March, the Quebec provincial government removed these masks from schools and daycare centers after Health Canada, Canada’s national public health

agency, warned that inhaling the graphene could lead to asbestos-like lung damage.

Is this move warranted by the facts, or an over-reaction? To answer that question, it can help to know more about what graphene is, how it kills microbes, including the SARS-COV-2 virus, and what scientists know so far about the potential health impacts of breathing in graphene.

How does graphene damage viruses, bacteria and human cells?

Graphene is a thin but strong and conductive two-dimensional sheet of carbon atoms. There are three ways that it can help prevent the spread of microbes: •Microscopic graphene particles have sharp edges that mechanically damage viruses and cells as they pass by them.

•Graphene is negatively charged with highly mobile electrons that electrostat-

Why graphene may be linked to lung injury Researchers have been studying the potential negative impacts of inhaling microscopic graphene on mammals. In one 2016 experiment, mice with graphene placed in their lungs experienced localized lung tissue damage, inflammation, formation of granulomas (where the body tries to wall off the graphene), and persistent lung injury, similar to what occurs when humans inhale asbestos. A different study from 2013 found that when human cells were bound to graphene, the cells were damaged.

In order to mimic human lungs, scientists have developed biological models continued on page 13

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IN THE NEWS

13

Graphene-coated Face Masks/ continued from page 12 designed to simulate the impact of high concentration aerosolized graphene – graphene in the form of a fine spray or suspension in air – on industrial workers.

One such study published in March 2020 found that a lifetime of industrial exposure to graphene induced inflammation and weakened the simulated lungs’ protective barrier.

It’s important to note that these models are not perfect options for studying the dramatically lower levels of graphene inhaled from a face mask, but researchers have used them in the past to learn more about these sorts of exposures. A study from 2016 found that a small portion of aerosolized graphene nanoparticles could move down a simulated mouth and nose passages and penetrate into the lungs. A 2018 study found that brief exposure to a lower amount of aerosolized graphene did not notably damage lung cells in a model.

From my perspective as a researcher, this trio of findings suggest that a little bit of graphene in the lungs is likely OK, but a lot is dangerous.

Although it might seem obvious to compare inhaling graphene to the wellknown harms of breathing in asbestos, the two substances behave differently in one key way. The body’s natural system for disposing of foreign particles cannot remove asbestos, which is why long-term exposure to asbestos can lead to the can-

cer mesothelioma. But in studies using mouse models to measure the impact of high dose lung exposure to graphene, the body’s natural disposal system does remove the graphene, although it occurs very slowly over 30 to 90 days.

The findings of these studies shed light on the possible health impacts of breathing in microscopic graphene in either small or large doses. However, these models don’t reflect the full complexity of human experiences. So the strength of the evidence about either the benefit of wearing a graphene mask, or the harm of inhaling microscopic graphene as a result of wearing it, is very weak.

No obvious benefit but theoretical risk Graphene is an intriguing scientific advance that may speed up the demise of COVID-19 virus particles on a face mask. In exchange for this unknown level of added protection, there is a theo-

retical risk that breathing through a graphene-coated mask will liberate graphene particles that make it through the other filter layers on the mask and penetrate into the lung. If inhaled, the body may not remove these particles rapidly enough to prevent lung damage.

The health department in Quebec is erring on the side of caution. Children are at very low risk of COVID-19 mortality or hospitalization, although they may infect others, so the theoretical risk from graphene exposure is too great. However, adults at high immediate risk of harm from contracting COVID-19 may choose to accept a small theoretical risk of longterm lung damage from graphene in exchange for these potential benefits.l C. Michael White is a Distinguished Professor and Head of the Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Connecticut

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IMMIGRATION

14

Comprehensive Immigration Reform: The U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021

P

resident Biden sent a bill to Congress on day one to restore humanity and American values to our immigration system. The U.S. Citizenship Act of 2021 establishes a new system to responsibly manage and secure our border, keep our families and communities safe, and better manage migration across the Hemisphere.

The U.S. Citizenship Act will: 1. Provide Pathways to Citizenship & Strengthen Labor Protections ●Create an earned roadmap to citizenship for undocumented individuals. The bill allows undocumented individuals to apply for temporary legal status, with the ability to apply for green cards after five years if they pass criminal and national security background checks and pay their taxes. Dreamers, TPS holders, and immigrant farmworkers who meet specific requirements are eligible for green cards immediately under the legislation. After three years, all green card holders who pass additional background checks and demonstrate knowledge of English and U.S. civics can apply to become citizens.

Applicants must be physically present in the United States on or before January 1, 2021. The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may waive the presence requirement for those deported on or after January 20, 2017 who were physically present for at least three years prior to removal for family unity and other humanitarian purposes.

Lastly, the bill further recognizes America as a nation of immigrants by changing the word “alien” to “noncitizen” in our immigration laws.

Editorial credit: Stratos Brilakis / Shutterstock.com

●Keep families together. The bill reforms the family-based immigration system by clearing backlogs, recapturing unused visas, eliminating lengthy wait times, and increasing per-country visa caps. It also eliminates the so-called “3 and 10-year bars,” and other provisions that keep families apart. The bill further supports familes by more explicitly including permanent partnerships and eliminating discrimination facing LGBTQ+ families. It also provides protections for orphans, widows, children, and Filipino veterans who fought alongside the United States in World War II. Lastly, the bill allows immigrants with approved family-sponsorship petitions to join family in the United States on a temporary basis while they wait for green cards to become available. ●Embrace diversity. The bill includes the NO BAN Act that prohibits discrimination based on religion and limits presidential authority to issue future bans. The

bill also increases Diversity Visas to 80,000 from 55,000. ●Promote immigrant and refugee integration and citizenship. The bill provides new funding to state and local governments, private organizations, educational institutions, community-based organizations, and not-for-profit organizations to expand programs to promote integration and inclusion, increase English-language instruction, and provide assistance to individuals seeking to become citizens. ●Grow our economy. This bill clears employment-based visa backlogs, recaptures unused visas, reduces lengthy wait times, and eliminates per-country visa caps. The bill makes it easier for graduates of U.S. universities with advanced STEM degrees to stay in the United States; improves access to green cards for workers in lower-wage sectors; and eliminates other unnecessary hurdles for employment-based green cards. The bill

provides dependents of H-1B visa holders work authorization, and children are prevented from “aging out” of the system. The bill also creates a pilot program to stimulate regional economic development, gives DHS the authority to adjust green cards based on macroeconomic conditions, and incentivizes higher wages for non-immigrant, high-skilled visas to prevent unfair competition with American workers. ●Protect workers from exploitation and improve the employment verification process. The bill requires that DHS and the Department of Labor establish a commission involving labor, employer, and civil rights organizations to make recommendations for improving the employment verification process.

Workers who suffer serious labor violations and cooperate with worker protection agencies will be granted greater access to U visa relief. The bill protects workers who are victims of workplace retaliation from deportation in order to allow labor agencies to interview these workers. It also protects migrant and seasonal workers, and increases penalties for employers who violate labor laws.

2. Prioritize Smart Border Controls ●Supplement existing border resources with technology and infrastructure. The legislation builds on record budget allocations for immigration enforcement by authorizing additional funding for the Secretary of DHS to develop and implement a plan to deploy technology to expedite screening and enhance the ability to identify narcotics and other contraband at every land, air, and sea port of entry. This includes high-throughput scanning technologies to ensure that all commercial and passenger vehicles and freight rail traffic entering the United States at land ports of entry and rail-border crossings along the border undergo pre-primary scanning. It also authorizes and provides funding for plans to improve infrastructure at ports of entry to enhance the ability to process asylum seekers and detect, interdict, disrupt and prevent narcotics from entering the United States. It authorizes the DHS Secretary to develop and implement a strategy to manage and secure the southern border between ports of entry that focuses on flexible solutions and technologies that expand the ability to detect illicit activity, evaluate the effectiveness of border security operations, and be easily relocated and broken out by Border Patrol Sector. To protect privacy, the DHS Inspector General is authorized to conduct oversight to ensure that employed technology effectively serves legitimate agency purposes. ●Manage the border and protect border communities. The bill provides funding continued on page 15

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15

IMMIGRATION program to reunite children with U.S. relatives and creates a Central American Family Reunification Parole Program to more quickly unite families with approved family sponsorship petitions.

US Citizenship Act of 2021/ continued from page 14 for training and continuing education to promote agent and officer safety and professionalism. It also creates a Border Community Stakeholder Advisory Committee, provides more special agents at the DHS Office of Professional Responsibility to investigate criminal and administrative misconduct, and requires the issuance of department-wide policies governing the use of force. The bill directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study the impact of DHS’s authority to waive environmental and state and federal laws to expedite the construction of barriers and roads near U.S. borders and provides for additional rescue beacons to prevent needless deaths along the border. The bill authorizes and provides funding for DHS, in coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and nongovernmental experts, to develop guidelines and protocols for standards of care for individuals, families, and children in CBP custody. ●Crack down on criminal organizations. The bill enhances the ability to prosecute individuals involved in smuggling and trafficking networks who are responsible for the exploitation of migrants. It also expands investigations, intelligence collection and analysis pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act to increase sanctions

against foreign narcotics traffickers, their organizations and networks. The bill also requires the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and DHS, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to improve and expand transnational anti-gang task forces in Central America.

3. Address Root Causes of Migration ●Start from the source. The bill codifies and funds the President’s $4 billion fouryear inter-agency plan to address the underlying causes of migration in the region, including by increasing assistance to El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, conditioned on their ability to reduce the endemic corruption, violence, and poverty that causes people to flee their home countries. It also creates safe and legal channels for people to seek protection, including by establishing Designated Processing Centers throughout Central America to register and process displaced persons for refugee resettlement and other lawful migration avenues—either to the United States or other partner countries. The bill also reinstitutes the Central American Minors

●Improve the immigration courts and protect vulnerable individuals. The bill expands family case management programs, reduces immigration court backlogs, expands training for immigration judges, and improves technology for immigration courts. The bill also restores fairness and balance to our immigration system by providing judges and adjudicators with discretion to review cases and grant relief to deserving individuals.

Funding is authorized for legal orientation programs and counsel for children, vulnerable individuals, and others when necessary to ensure the fair and efficient resolution of their claims. The bill also provides funding for school districts educating unaccompanied children, while clarifying sponsor responsibilities for such children. ●Support asylum seekers and other vulnerable populations. The bill eliminates the one-year deadline for filing asylum claims and provides funding to reduce asylum application backlogs. It also increases protections for U visa, T visa, and VAWA applicants, including by raising the cap on U visas from 10,000 to 30,000. The bill also expands protections for foreign nationals assisting U.S. troops. l

Arleigh Louison/ continued from page 1 “A federal grand jury returned a 12count indictment against Arleigh Louison, 53, of Brooklyn, New York, charging him with running an immigration fraud scheme that included the filing of false statements with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, including over 1,800 fraudulent applications for over 1,000 petitioners within the last four years. Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) agents arrested Louison in Brooklyn, New York, and executed a federal search warrant at his office,” said the U.S. Department of Justice press release.

Louison has since passed. However, he has left a carnage of victims facing deportation and a myriad of immigration issues.

Since Arleigh Louison was arrested for immigration fraud, the files of all his clients will be reviewed. Additionally, every single client will be served a Notice to Appear (NTA) and be interviewed by ICE agents with the sole purpose of seeking admission to initiate deportation proceedings. The NTA is the first step taken by the American government to begin removal of an immigrant from the country. If you were a client of Louison, it is imperative that you consult with an AILA attorney and do not meet with ICE alone. You should also seek the advice of more than one counsel.

For a FREE case evaluation, call 855-768-8845.l

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IMMIGRATION

16

When Hell Is At Home: Getting a Green Card Through VAWA

BY MARY CAMPBELL

T

hey say, “Charity begins at home.” Well, hell can also be at home. “Home” can be the word where there is fear, anxiety, anticipation of what’s coming, suffering—domestic violence. That violence can be physical, mental, and emotional.The Coronavirus pandemic demands that we stay at home.

But for many, added to the fear of the coronavirus and financial uncertainty is domestic violence. Being confined at home with their abuser makes victims more vulnerable because there is no escape. On top of that, multiple studies have found that emotionally stressful events can lead to an increase in aggressive behavior at home.

The non-profit organization, Futures Without Violence, states that “People who are surviving violence in their relationships and families may be experiencing increased isolation and danger caused by social distancing measures during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Survivors often have specific needs around safety, health, and confidentiality. We also realize that people who are already more vulnerable to economic

and health insecurity are facing additional challenges during this unprecedented time.” Cognizant of all of the above, they have compiled resources and tools victims of domestic violence. Visit www.futureswithoutviolence.org According to the National Domestic Hotline (www.thehotline.org), here’s how COVID-19 could uniquely impact intimate partner violence survivors: •Abusive partners may withhold necessary items, such as hand sanitizer or disinfectants.

•Abusive partners may share misinformation about the pandemic to control or frighten survivors, or to prevent them from seeking appropriate medical attention if they have symptoms.

•Abusive partners may withhold insurance cards, threaten to cancel insurance, or prevent survivors from seeking medical attention if they need it.

•Programs that serve survivors may be significantly impacted –- shelters may be full or may even stop intakes altogether.

•Survivors may also fear entering shelter because of being in close quarters with groups of people.

•Survivors who are older or have chronic heart or lung conditions may be at

increased risk in public places where they would typically get support, like shelters, counseling centers, or courthouses.

•Travel restrictions may impact a survivor’s escape or safety plan – it may not be safe for them to use public transportation or to fly.

•An abusive partner may feel more justified and escalate their isolation tactics.

Immigrants and Domestic Violence Immigrants in the US. have the right to live life free of abuse. Due to the victim’s immigration status, abusive partners have additional ways to exert power and control over their victims. If you are an immigrant or refugee in an abusive relationship, you may face unique issues that make it hard to reach out for help.

VAWA As a victim or survivor of domestic violence, there are laws that can allow you to gain legal status in the United States.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was created in 1994 by then Senator Joe Biden, to protect victims of domestic violence, and offers specific protections for people without legal sta-

tus in the US. VAWA also protects men and children who are victims of domestic violence.

As part of the perpetration of domestic violence, abusers often may refuse to assist you with applying for immigration status, may promise to apply for you, but never actually help, or threaten to contact immigration and report you. VAWA helps victims of domestic violence allowing them to self-petition for their own legal status without the abuser’s help or knowledge.

A specialized immigration attorney should always be your first point of contact when it comes to immigration questions and concerns. You can also listen to Ask the Lawyer Radio Program on WVIP 93.5FM on Thursdays, 10pm11pm and Sundays, 11pm to 12am. The program provides great information and also an opportunity for a FREE, no obligation legal consultation. The number to call is 855-768-8845. You can also visit www.askthelawyer.us Domestic violence is against the law regardless of one’s immigration status.

Be a loving family member, good friend, and caring neighbor: please share this information. l

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No. 30

Brooklyn: Foreclosure Capital. Do Not Lose Your Home to Scammers or Foreclosure. Get Help Today.

BY VICTORIA FALK

T

he Coronavirus pandemic has not only wreaked havoc over people’s physical and mental well-being; it also has devastating effects on people’s finances. Over the last months, many businesses have closed, and many of those who have jobs have not been able to get to work due to enforced social distancing.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor reports, over 2 million New Yorkers have filed for unemployment benefits within the last three months. Furthermore, New City Mayor De Blasio has since announced that 22,000 city workers are at risk of being laid off their jobs.

Therefore, it comes as no surprise

that many homeowners are having difficulty meeting required mortgage payments and are at risk of losing their homes due to foreclosure. To make matters worse, scammers see this as the perfect opportunity to prey on those in desperate need of help and steal their properties.

Last year, September 3, 2020, Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, representing Senatorial District 19, held a live online

seminar, with representatives from several community-based organizations, to provide information to the community to help prevent foreclosure protect homeowners from scammers. Senator Persaud was especially concerned because homeowners who fall within 11236 zip code in her district reported having the highest foreclosure rate across all of Brooklyn.

Also, senior citizens, who have been the

scammers’ preferred victims, reside predominantly in Brooklyn neighborhoods.

Senator Persaud reported that creating a Cease-and-Desist Zone in East New York and teaching homeowners how to recognize scams has proven helpful. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a scam, you are encouraged to report it. Senator Persaud said, “The Brooklyn District Attorney investigates scams. Attorney General of New York, Letitia James, investigates scams.”

“The Department of Finance has

continued on page 3

Understanding the Foreclosure Process & Common Defenses

BY TRISTAN PHILLIP EQUITY SMART REALTY INC

F

oreclosure is a legal process by which a lender takes possession of collateral pledged to secure a loan. Because it is a complex legal action, and because there are few resources for homeowners, vehicle owners, and other borrowers to research precisely how a foreclosure works, being involved in such an ordeal can be both stressful and confusing.

Like all legal disputes, the excellent news is foreclosure cases must allow the borrower to state their case. There are numerous ways for borrowers to protect themselves, many of which are guaranteed under federal and state laws.

Common Defenses Some of the most common defenses to foreclosure include: •the foreclosing bank didn't follow the required state procedures •the foreclosing party can't prove it owns the loan (it lacks "standing")

•the mortgage servicer made a grave mistake when handling your loan •you're a servicemember on active duty and protected by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act •the statute of limitations has passed, and •the servicer used a defective affidavit or declaration.

If you are involved in a foreclosure, here are some things to consider.

The Time Factor Because of the mandated notice lenders must provide to borrowers before they can legally take possession of the collateral, foreclosing on a home, a vehicle, or land is by no means a quick and simple act. Lenders must file a Notice of Default which begins a phase called the reinstatement period. Roughly 12 weeks later, a lender is required to post a Notice of Sale on the property and deliver the same to the borrower.

Generally speaking, this three-month window is a borrower's opportunity to bring their loan current and avoid the sale of their property.

Judicial Foreclosure Some states require the involvement of a court during the foreclosure process in much the same way the federal government requires bankruptcies to be subject to the jurisdiction of a federal judge. In states where judicial foreclosure is mandated, borrowers have the opportunity to state their case opposing the sale of their home in a hearing before a judge.

Like all litigation, a foreclosure case is subject to the orderly processes of the court, which means a defendant borrower has the same compulsory process as the lender. Motions can be filed. Evidence can be presented, and the actions of the lender can be contested at each step. continued on page 3

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2

EQUITY SMART REALTY

Advantages of a Listing Agent

B

efore listing your home for sale, many home sellers are tasked with the decision to hire an agent or make the venture alone.

While the FSBO (For Sale By Owner) avenue might save you a little money by avoiding the commission cost of a listing agent, a real-estate transaction is best navigated with the guidance of an expert.

Recent data from the National Association of Realtors reveals that only 7% of FSBO attempts were actually successful in 2017. Typically, these sales were made when sellers already had a buyer in mind. Finding the right listing price is considered the most difficult task for this type of sale.

Before attempting to join this small percentage of those who sell their homes without expert help, consider the advantages of hiring a professional real estate agent.

Setting the Price Choosing a price point is more involved than having a home appraised and asking that amount. In fact, while an appraisal is a good starting point, an expert can access a CMA or comparative market analysis to analyze current trends in the

area including what similar homes sell for, current market trends, interest of local buyers, and how long homes are listed.

With this important information, a real estate expert can price your home to ensure a profitable sale with a quick turnaround.

sale in regions with intense summers and brutal winters can benefit from an updated HVAC system. If you decide to purchase a new unit, make sure to keep warranty paperwork on hand to pass on to the next owner. Small incentives like this can make the difference between receiving unimpressive offers and making a sale.

Be sure to brag about recent upgrades in your listing. Buyers know what they’re looking for, and an agent understands how to advertise your property so they can find it.

Suggest Renovations A real estate agent is efficient in finding flaws in your property that may slow down a transaction or effect bids from buyers. For instance, if you live in an area that experiences heavy rain fall, a new roof or air-tight windows and doors may be necessary before listing. Homes for

Dealing with Negotiations Once you have accepted an offer from a home buyer, there is still one roadblock in the way before you head to close. Most offers are contingent on a home inspection, meaning an independent professional will inspect the property for flaws or defects that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Keep in mind, some states require you to disclose information about known problems that may affect the value of your home. If you fail to inform them, you may be held legally responsible for fines and fees or the rescission of a sale.

Your real estate agent is an expert on the sometimes-complicated responsibilities that sellers face and can ensure your deal won’t fall through.

If unexpected problems are discovered, it’s common for a new offer to be written up. An agent will use his expertise to negotiate with the buyer’s agent to maintain fair terms.

Free Consultation Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance.

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3

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS Do Not Lose Your Home/ continued from page 1

Foreclosure Defenses/ continued from page 1

people you do not know – even if you’re trying to get a short sale of your property.

Slick people come to your home saying they can help you if you sign forms. Do not, I repeat, do not, do not sign your deed over to anyone. Do not take money.

If you take money, its seen as you sold the deed to your home,” warned Angella Davidson, Program Director at a local non-profit.

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Homeowners beware of unsolicited phone calls, mail, emails, text messages, special offers, and people knocking on the door of your home offering to help you get a forbearance on your loan. You do not have to pay anyone to request a forbearance on your mortgage loan, and several community-based organizations provide free services to homeowners. Therefore, do not delay in getting the help that you need. As soon as you feel you may be at risk of having problems, is the time to reach out to your mortgage servicer to discuss your options and one of the community-based organizations for counseling and assistance.

Each of the housing professionals who participated in the recent meeting with Senator Roxanne J. Persaud agreed that homeowners should take action immediately and reach out for help before they have a crisis.

Do not let fear or shame cause you to

Auctions During the normal course of a foreclosure, the property in question usually ends up being auctioned off by the lender to recover the property's value and pay off the loan. Auctions typically take place shortly after the reinstatement period ends. By and large, if your foreclosure reaches the auction phase, it is probably too late to save the property.

One option all property owners have before the auction is negotiating with the lender to perform something called a "short sale." This can have some significant tax ramifications, but it also gives you the option to plan for the sale of your home rather than have everything proceed according to the lender's schedule.

If you are facing foreclosure, your best options are to consult with a real estate attorney and then negotiate with your lender. Most banks and finance companies will make many concessions if it helps them avoid acquiring a house, they have to either sell or maintain.

It is also important to recognize you have alternatives and time to avoid an unfortunate outcome. Take your time, perform your due diligence and use the options available to you.

wait until the last minute to respond to foreclosure notices and/or apply for assistance.

If you do not respond to foreclosure notices within the time allotted, you make it easier for the bank to prove its case against you, and your home may be sold at a foreclosure auction. The chances of you getting your house back after it is sold at a foreclosure auction are slim, to none. Therefore, you want to respond immediately to foreclosure notices.

Homeowners: Don’t just stop making your payments. If approved for a mortgage forbearance, it allows you to stop making payment on your loan without the fear of foreclosure.

Those payments are still owed and are put on the end of your loan. You may also request that the mortgage be modified to make it more affordable.

Counseling is essential to help homeowners figure out which of the available

options will work best for them. Each of the housing counselors agreed that the One-Shot Deal loan program, offered by the New York City Human Resources Administration, maybe another option to help homeowners get back on track financially and request reductions in utility bills.

Senator Roxanne J. Persaud stressed, “We can not afford to have middle-class homeowners who worked hard, lose their homes, and walk away.” The good news for homeowners is the moratorium on foreclosures and evictions is extended until December 2020, and no property will be foreclosed on during the moratorium.

Getting Help Do not delay getting assistance. There are things you can do now to save your home. If you have questions about your rights as a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, if you have been scammed, fear fore-

Free Consultation Need assistance? Schedule an appointment today. call us at 855-768-8845.n

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4

HOME OWNERSHIP

What to Expect When Facing Judicial or Non-Judicial Home Foreclosure owner has the burden to show the foreclosure action is improper.

BY JANET HOWARD

R

ecent surveys show that a significant number of Americans are unprepared to handle an unexpected bill of $500. As many as 80% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. A sudden job loss, illness or accident can create financial chaos. For anyone paying off a home mortgage, foreclosure and the impending loss of their home can quickly become a reality. The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the problem.

State foreclosure laws vary, and a homeowner facing foreclosure should quickly become familiar with state and federal laws outlining procedures and requirements. Both the process and length of time involved will depend on the type of foreclosure allowed by state law and documents that were signed to finance the home purchase.

Judicial vs. Non-Judicial Foreclosure Just under half the states employ judicial foreclosure in which the foreclosing party must begin a lawsuit to regain the property. A complaint and summons are filed in court and then served on the homeowner.

The remaining states use non-judicial

foreclosure, a process that generally works more quickly and begins when the homeowner receives a notice of default from the loan servicer that foreclosure and sale of the home is imminent.

Judicial foreclosures are more common when a mortgage is involved. Non-judicial foreclosures are most common where ownership involves a deed of trust which includes a power of sale clause.

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Judicial foreclosures tend to take longer for several reasons. First, federal law requires homeowners to be 120 days in arrears before a foreclosure suit may be filed. Second, the court process is slow due to crowded dockets, required hearings and a limited number of available judges. Once a homeowner has been served with a complaint, he or she usually has 20-30 days to file an answer which either admits or denies the allegations, raises potential defenses and tells the court why foreclosure is improper. Filing an answer prevents the lender from obtaining a default judgment and automatically winning.

In non-judicial foreclosures the homeowner must initiate court proceedings by filing the complaint. The initial filing should also request a temporary restraining order (TRO) and a preliminary injunction to prevent the foreclosure action from proceeding pending court action.

Obtaining a TRO requires the person seeking it to show he or she will suffer irreparable harm unless the order is granted. The potential loss of a family home usually meets that requirement.

Once the matter is in court, the foreclosure process naturally slows down. If a homeowner can survive a motion for summary judgment in which the lender wins by showing there is no legitimate dispute regarding a material fact, the discovery and trial preparation process will likely take months to complete.

The discovery process allows both sides to request information from the other including property and financing records.

Depositions may be taken or written questions may require answering as each party tries to obtain further evidence to justify or defend against foreclosure.

Judicial foreclosures are less expensive for the homeowner since the owner is not the one starting the lawsuit. Judicial foreclosures place the burden on the lender to prove the foreclosure is justified and that applicable laws have been followed.

Conversely, the homeowner must pay to start a lawsuit in non-judicial foreclosures. The lender, at least initially, does not need to prove anything. The home-

Remaining in the Home A homeowner can remain in the home without making payment at least until the foreclosure process is completed. In fact, the homeowner should remain in the home since the owner is ultimately responsible for the home and any damage to the property until required to vacate.

Remaining in the home is often a requirement to take advantage of a loan modification program. Staying without paying also provides the opportunity to save money to put toward a new, less costly residence if saving the current home proves to be impossible.

The homeowner should explore options which can prevent loss of the home or which might, at least, minimize the damage to the owner's credit report. Losing a home through foreclosure will appear on a credit report and will typically prevent purchase of a home for the following 3-5 years. Options to foreclosure include loan modification, short sales and surrendering the deed to the property in lieu of foreclosure.

If a court determines a judicial foreclosure is appropriate, the homeowner still has time before being required to vacate the property. The lender must schedule a date for the home sale and publicize the sale. Notice often requires several weeks of publication in a local newspaper. State law may also require a current home appraisal be performed.

Some states also provide for a redemption period following foreclosure during which the homeowners can buy back the property. Depending on state law, the homeowner may be able to live in the home during the redemption period even if the buyback proves impractical in the end.

Length of the Foreclosure Process Pre-COVID, the average foreclosure took more than 800 days from the time of first notice to end of the foreclosure process. In many states the actual process may take more than a year, and in a handful of states the foreclosure process often takes several years.

Receiving notice of foreclosure does not mean loss of a home is inevitable. A number of defenses may be available to prevent the loss. Actions can be taken to slow down the process, minimize the anxiety and even save the home under the right circumstances. Consultation with an experienced real estate attorney should be among the first steps taken for anyone facing foreclosure.

Free Consultation Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance.

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CONVERSATIONS

21

Putting Your Affairs in Order you want to see handle the ceremony or other important details to you, document those so your loved ones can observe your wishes.

Many prepay for the burial plot and casket in advance. This is an act of love if you do this and take that burden off your loved ones' minds.

BY CHRIS TOBIAS

M

oving into the phase of life of a senior citizen calls for thinking about things that you might have put off before. This includes many of life’s philosophical questions and looking back on life and thinking about what you did well and what you regret.

But aside from those reflective questions, there are some basic things you should do now to “put your affairs in order” so that in the event you come to that final day of your life, your children and those charged with such affairs know what to do.

It seems almost morbid to “put your affairs in order” early in your retirement life when you are healthy and active, and there is no apparent threat that the end is near. But these are not decisions that should be put off until your health begins to decline when you are significantly older. These are decisions that call for a mature and thoughtful review by a senior citizen fully in command of his or her faculties.

That means that putting your affairs in order is something to do now and not procrastinate.

After all, when you started a family, you didn’t wait until the children were grown to buy life insurance or think about their education. You took care of that when they were still crawling around in diapers

because that is what mature adults do.

Now is the time to be a mature adult about end-of-life paperwork, so those affairs are in order and ready for when needed. The kinds of end-of-life issues that should be decided, paid for, and settled now and by you include: •The settlement of life insurance and who has the authority to close it out.

•Is your will up-to-date and correct?

This should be reviewed from time to time if your assets change or other details need to be altered.

•Are your medical directives decided and signed?

This includes your decision about whether you wish to have your life prolonged if you are on artificial life support after a catastrophic illness or injury.

This is called a DNR or “Do Not Resuscitate” order, and what you decide will be the law to medical teams who are caring for you during those final days.

•Don’t leave this decision to loved ones to agonize over when they are already in emotional distress. Be the adult, make those decisions now, and make sure your children and loved ones know your choices.

•Are the proper legal documents for the disposition of business assets and how you wish to see other legal affairs handled documented correctly and in good legal order? A final review by your lawyers will give you peace of mind that these documents will not be susceptible to legal action after you are gone.

•Do you have your funeral arrangements decided?

You should decide where you will be buried, whether cremation is preferred, and other details of the ceremony. If there are particular hymns you want to have sung at your funeral, a church or minister

Finding and Executing Your Wishes Of all of the end-of-life decisions you will make, the most important one will be making sure all of these documents can be found and that you have carefully trained a trusted friend or relative in finding and executing these documents.

The last thing you want to have happened is for your children to have to hunt through boxes of old papers to find life insurance papers, your will, or other essential end-of-life documents.

Create good legible copies that are legally correct and secure them where they are safe and easy to locate. Please go through them with your executor or who will be responsible for them so they know exactly how your will and other affairs should be administered. And make sure everybody has copies, including all of your children and everyone who is mentioned in the will. In this way, there will be no questions when the time comes, and everyone will know what to do.l

UN LO CK

your right to health care before you get sick

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nHEALTH

nENTERTAINMENT

nRELATIONSHIPS

nRECIPES

Bob Marley’s Documentary Series Nominated for Webby Award

BY STEPHANIE KOURY JAMAICANS.COM

T

he 12-part mini documentary series “Bob Marley: Legacy” from Universal Music Enterprises has been nominated for a 2021 Webby Award in the Music category for the title of “Best of the Internet.” The 2021 edition of the Webby Awards is the 25th year they have been presented.

“Bob Marley: Legacy” streams on YouTube and takes viewers on a tour through Marley’s music and messages.

“Freedom Fighter,” the latest episode of the documentary series, includes a number of interviews with artists like LL Cool J and 2 Chainz, along with writers, social activists, family members, and others, such as activists Tamika Mallory, Mary Hooks, author Aya de Leon, and journalist Dani McClain. It explores the way the issues Marley spoke out against, including police brutality, still resonate and have importance in what is the 75th year of his birth.

According to Dr. Glenn A. Griffin, professor of Critical Theory and Social Justice at Occidental College, there are many ironies that surround the idea of freedom in the United States today, including the condition of immigrants, of women of color, continued lynching and killing of African American men, that it is important to understand what Bob Marley might contribute to the moment.

Each episode of the series focuses on a particular part of Marley’s life and legacy. To date, seven parts are available for streaming: 75 Years a Legend (Episode 1), Women Rising (Episode 2), Righteousness (Episode 3), Rhythm of the Game (Episode 4), Punky Reggae Party (Episode 5), Ride Natty Ride (Episode 6), and Freedom Fighter (Episode 7).

The first episode was released in February 2020 and received more than 1 million views from around the world.

The series offers fans a cinematic jour-

Bob Marley.

Editorial credit: spatuletail / Shutterstock.com

ney through Marley’s life, legacy, and relevance to the present day. Marley is one of the most-followed posthumous artists on social media, and the series seeks to bring his legacy to new audiences via innovative content and technology. May 11 will mark the 40th anniversary of Marley’s death. He is the most recognized Jamaican in the world and considered the global ambassador for reggae music. Marley was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has sold over 20 million records.

The Webby is one of the oldest internet awards to be presented and have been called “the Oscars of the Internet.” They are presented every year by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, which comprises more than 2,000 industry experts and technology innovators. The awards are presented in the categories of websites, advertising and media, online film and video, mobile sites and apps, and social.

The winners will be announced on May 18, 2021, at a virtual awards show. Two winners are chosen in each category, one by the members of the Academy and one by the public. l

nSPORTS

nHOROSCOPE

An Unforgettable Fruity Flavor

F

resh fruit is finally in season.

When the sun is out and kids are hitting the pool, it’s also time to indulge in some sweet fruit flavors.

Watermelon, berries, bananas and more can all be found near perfect ripeness at grocery stores or farmer’s markets during the warm summer months.

On a hot day, there is almost nothing better than trying something new that sounds delicious. Throw your apron on, prepare your kitchen and get baking.

If you’re craving something sweet with no ideas where to start, try this sweet Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit. It’s tangy, rich and allows you to escape to the summer oasis of your dreams, at least for a few minutes.

It has the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake mixed with a hint of tart lemon juice. Topped with raspberries, mint and oranges, the burst of fresh fruit enhances the cheesecake flavor. It’s the perfect sweet treat for summer for people of all ages with its bright colors and varying flavors.

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter then press into a springform pan.

Beat cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, three eggs, lemon juice and vanilla extract then pour it on top of the graham cracker mixture.

Bake for 50-55 minutes before cooling completely in the fridge and adding fruit and mint leaves.

The outcome is a fluffy cheesecake with a small hint of lemon topped with your favorite fresh fruits. It’s a delightful, sweet and satisfying recipe your family can make again and again to enjoy during those warm summer months.

—Culinary.net

Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit Servings: 6-8 Ingredients 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk 3 eggs 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 orange, peeled and separated 8 raspberries 3 mint leaves, for garnish

Directions Heat oven to 350 F. In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan.

In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix until combined.

Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed.

Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle. Top with mint leaves.

(FamilyFeatures)l

Find more recipes perfect for summer at Culinary.net

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25

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Three Primary Reasons People Divorce Within a Year of Marrying the primary reasons why a divorce occurs during that time period.

Infidelity as a divorce motivator during the first year of marriage occurs at about the same ratio with people who lived together before getting married and those that did not. Online and non-physical infidelity is becoming a growing underlying cause of divorce within a year after marriage in recent years as well.

BY MIKE BROEMMEL

A

surprising number of marriages end within the first 12 months of a wedding, according to the American Bar Association Family Law Division. Although the end of any marriage is based on unique facts and circumstances, there are three primary reasons why people divorce within a year of marrying.

Discovery of Secrets One of the three most common reasons a marriage ends in a short period of time is the discovery of secrets by a spouse. In some cases, both spouses end up discovering something significant and previously undisclosed about their marital partners.

In regard to secrets discovered, a criminal record is a common concealed fact revealed after marriage. Although in some cases a criminal record involves only a minor offense or offenses, time and time again a spouse discovers the existence of a serious crime in his or her partner's past.

The second common "secret" discovered after nuptials is a significant debt issue. A spouse learns that his or her part-

ner accumulated large debt before the marriage, oftentimes debt that is deeply in arrears.

As an aside, part of the due diligence process a person should perform before agreeing to marry is obtaining independent verification of a prospective spouse's past, including both that individual's criminal and financial history. Love can conquer many things in life, but undisclosed burdensome debt and a serious

criminal record can become insurmountable issues if discovered following a wedding.

Infidelity About 60 percent of men and over 40 percent of women will be unfaithful to their spouses during the course of a marriage, according to the American Bar Association. Infidelity during the first year of a marriage represents another of

Financial Problems Finally, when it comes to divorce within a year of a wedding, financial problems frequently represent motivating factors to end a marriage. This includes financial issues that develop after the nuptials.

Many times it also includes financial problems that predate the marriage that do not improve or worsen time following the wedding ceremony.

Conclusion Although there exist an array of other reasons why marriages fail in the short speed, those referenced in this article are the most common. In some cases, a marriage fails because more than one of these commonplace reasons occur simultaneously.l

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26

TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE

Celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week

BY CHRIS TOBIAS

N

ational Travel and Tourism Week is celebrated in the United States from Monday, May 3, 2021, through Sunday, May 9, 2021. During this Covid-19 global pandemic, with lockdowns, travel bans, travel restrictions, forced quarantines, and the need to wear a face mask to travel, many people may question whether or not we should still be celebrating travel and tourism this year. However, there is still reason to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week in 2021 as there was in 1983 when the United States Congress passed a resolution to commemorate the industry for a week during May. We celebrate what travel and tourism mean as far as our enhanced way of life, increased jobs, and economic growth.

Since 1983, Travel and Tourism Week has been recognized with events recognizing travel and tourism professionals and the industry itself. While this is currently a national celebration, industry statistics show that an average of $8.3 trillion was generated into the economy from people traveling worldwide before the global pandemic. Therefore, there was a cause for celebration for many countries worldwide that benefit from tourism dollars. The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism is celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week with a virtual party for Travel Agents to highlight the island's

beauty. Studies showed that 50% of those travel dollars were generated from travel to the Caribbean. In addition to the Bahamas, Jamaica is another one of the Caribbean islands leading the way for tourism and bringing in the most tourists from the United States.

Travel slowed down dramatically during the global pandemic. However, the travel and tourism industry did not come to a screeching halt. Travel leaders worldwide were still connecting throughout the pandemic to strategize on how to rebuild travel safely. Juergen T. Steinmetz, who has consistently worked in the travel and tourism industry since he was a teenager in Germany, was one of the industry leaders who grabbed the reigns to show leadership during the pandemic.

Steinmetz, Chairman of the World Tourism Network, organized travel leaders, Ministers of Tourism, travel companies, heads of tourism boards, and other supporters from over 100 countries as part of the Rebuilding Travel and Safer Travel movements. Representatives from Jamaica, Trinidad, South Africa, and more were included in the campaign.

Even our very own Victoria Falk, awardwinning CEO of Passionate Travel Inc., from New York, was recognized as a supporter of the Rebuilding Travel movement.

Steinmetz encourages people to "get engaged, participate, and watch the latest travel trends and news updates." Travel is indeed coming back, and people want to know where they can travel to safely.

Therein lies the increased need for travel

professionals.

The travel agents, whose businesses have survived the travel bans and restrictions brought on by the global pandemic, are those who are doing more than simply booking trips. Travel agents are taking on the role of 'trusted travel advisor' and are teaching their clients the new normal for travel in 2021, the age of the global pandemic. They let their clients know where it is safe to travel and the latest travel requirements, such as face coverings and covid-19 tests. Furthermore, they are doing the majority of this online.

Thus, computer savvy online travel agents benefit from selling travel worldwide without being limited to what is happening within the confines of their city.

Now is a great time to consider starting an online home-based travel business.

Yes, people are still traveling. They are just traveling differently. When international travel dwindled, Americans took to the roads and went to domestic locations. Las Vegas, Florida, and Texas saw increased visitors during the pandemic.

Travel surveys show that over 62% of Americans have taken road trips during this pandemic, while Cancun and Jamaica remained two of the most popular international travel destinations. The rollout of vaccinations has reportedly helped to revive international travel.

Reportedly, over 4.23 million people have visited Jamaica during this pandemic, and the numbers are expected to climb. Millions of Americans surveyed indicated their plans to travel during July 2021. Thus, presenting an opportunity for business-minded people to position themselves in front of the expected travel boom.

Some of the questions asked to Passionate Travel Inc. are, "Where can I go?" "I just want to go somewhere.

Where can I travel to that will be safe for my family and me? "Do I have to wear a mask? Do I have to get vaccinated?"

Travelers who were accustomed to booking their travel arrangements for themselves are now seeking assistance from travel professionals because they want the added security of knowing they are doing things as safely and correctly as possible. Thus, increasing the demand for travel professionals and agents.

Celebrate this National Travel and Tourism Week by finding out how you can become a certified travel specialist with your own online home-based business. Learn how to book travel, use travel to raise funds for churches, charity, and other non-profit organizations, grow a profitable online, home-based travel business, get tax advantages, and enjoy a better quality of life.

Go to www.nacc.nyc/travelagent to register for the 4-week online travel agent training program today. Secure your spot in the class and get ahead of the travel boom.l

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27

NYC ELECTIONS

Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson: Candidate for Civil Court Judge than highly skilled to decide on all matters assigned to her in this position.

BY DIANA BRACHO, ESQ

P

resently, I would presume that most Americans know the importance of voting, considering the 2020 presidential election had the highest participation record ever recorded. I would also speculate that most Americans do not see the importance of voting for their local civil court judges, especially in New York, where they can be elected to a civil court position yet sit in a family court position. The nuances of the New York civil court judge position are not frequently advertised, but the information is available on the nycourts.gov website. Unlike presidents, senators, Councilmen, and Mayors, civil court judges have the authority to order citizens to pay, or not pay, a disputed debt. Civil court Judges also decide contract disputes, foreclosures, and real property matters under $25000, which accounts for 25% of cases heard in New York.

Moreover, in New York, when a person is elected to a civil court judge position, they may also hear Criminal and Family court cases. To be clear, the person that is

Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson Photo credit: Roper-Simpson Campaign

elected as a civil court judge in Brooklyn may also decide your freedom, child custody, and child support matters. Thus, Brooklynites must select the most qualified person for this highly sensitive position. Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson is a highly qualified woman. Casilda is running to serve Brooklyn as its civil court judge in the November 2021 elections.

Judge Roper-Simpson is currently an Administrative Law Judge at the NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Nevertheless, Judge RoperSimpson is running for the opportunity to serve Brooklyn as a civil court judge since it is a critical position that many people are not qualified to hold. Still, Casilda Elena Roper-Simpson is more

What qualifications does Casilda possess to serve as a civil court judge in Brooklyn? Judge Roper-Simpson has over 30 years of experience as an attorney in New York. She graduated from Brooklyn Law School in 1987. She has since argued hundreds of cases in Federal and State courts. Judge Roper-Simpson specializes in various legal fields, including criminal defense, personal injury, civil rights, family law, civil litigation, landlord/tenant disputes, labor/employment, and immigration. She is a Brooklyn native, and her parents immigrated from Panama, which means she has the personal knowledge of the issues that many Brooklynites face daily.

Moreover, Judge Roper-Simpson is a mother and grandmother, which means she has a real-world understanding of the many challenges that families face daily.l

Listen to Roper-Simpson’s interview at www.pppradio.nyc

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28

NYC ELECTIONS

Michael Hollingsworth Wants to be the Next City Council Member for District 35

BY CAW EDITORIAL TEAM

M

ichael Hollingsworth, longtime Brooklynite, and tenant advocate believes he is the best person to replace term-limited incumbent Laurie Cuombo as City Council Member for District 35 in Brooklyn, New York. District 35 includes central Brooklyn neighborhoods such as Fort Greene, Prospect Heights, Clinton Hill, BedfordStuyvesant, and Crown Heights.

Hollingsworth has resided in Crown Heights for over 40 years and has been an integral part of the community.

Hollingsworth's passion for activism began in 2016. At that time, he, and other tenants in the rent-stabilized apartment building where they resided, received a notice that their rent-stabilized apartment building would be converted into highpriced condominiums.

Michael Hollingsworth organized the tenants to fight for housing justice and reached out to the Crown Heights Tenant Union to work with them to fight the issue.

That would be the first of many fights that tenant advocate, Michael Hollingsworth, would take on and help win for the sake of assuring housing jus-

tice for residents of his community of Crown Heights. Hollingsworth promises to continue fighting for tenants' rights in the role of City Council Member for Brooklyn's District 35.

Michael Hollingsworth discussed his run for City Council District 35 during an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, which can be heard on People, Power, & Politics Radio Show.

Hollingsworth does not see his lack of actual political experience as a deficit in the race for City Council. Quite the opposite. Hollingsworth hopes that Brooklynites will recognize that he has already been fighting for them voluntarily for over five years and has been committed to bettering the community at large.

"There are a lot of issues to tackle, and it's time we have someone who comes from the neighborhood who is not politically connected and truly fight for the folks who haven't had a voice in a long time," Hollingsworth stated during the interview. "When you talk to most people who live in this District, housing is their number one issue, the lack of truly affordable housing, and that's the main issue I want to champion in City Council," added Hollingsworth.

Michael Hollingsworth Photo credit: Tess Mayer

Hollingsworth shared the issues he feels are currently affecting the Black community: "…education, the environment, policing, and criminal justice", as well as "healthcare, economic opportunity…and no jobs."

Hollingsworth's love for Brooklyn was evident, as he recalled earlier days during his youth, being raised by his mother, who was from Alabama, and his father, who was originally from Guyana. He

spoke about going to block parties in Brooklyn with his siblings, their father taking them to Brooklyn's Labor Day Parade, and how the neighbors in the family's Brooklyn neighborhood would watch out for each other's children and correct them if they were misbehaving.

"There used to be a sense of community.

Families still found a way to make the neighborhood feel like a community," stated Hollingsworth.

At this time, Michael Hollingsworth is counting on his Brooklyn community to come through for him with their votes.

"I've been humbled by the amount of support, so far, that we've received from people. The message is connecting. We are finding out that people don't want more of the same. They don't want someone who is politically polished, but someone who comes from where they come from and has lived the experience…," shared Hollingsworth with Caribbean American Weekly. Anyone interested in volunteering to help during the campaign can go to www.m4bk.com to read more and sign up.l

To hear the full interview with Michael Hollingsworth, go to pppradio.nyc.

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29

NYC ELECTIONS

Dianne Morales, NYC Mayoral Candidate: You Don’t Reform an Inequitable, Exclusive System. You Transform It.

BY CAW EDITORIAL TEAM

D

ianne Morales is a Community Grassroot Candidate hoping to become the first elected Black and Latina community leader woman as mayor of New York City. Born and raised in Brooklyn to immigrants of Puerto Rico descent, she considers herself the embodiment of the average New Yorker.

She is a champion with a proven track record of creating solutions to meet the needs of the majority of New Yorkers in New York City, having worked extensively with communities in a core sector like education. Beyond that, her longterm service in the nonprofit sector as Executive Director and Chief of Operation affords her the ability to be knowledgeable about the pain points of over 3 million NY City dwellers.

Though new to politics, her strength lies in her commitment to the community and her progressive approach to the issues facing New York City post-pandemic. Her opening statement on her campaign website, www.dianne.nyc, is bold and to the point: "The pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities that already existed: Housing, economic and health disparities were all present but have only deepened. And as we continue to experience the devastating consequences of our nation's failed pandemic response, the rich have gotten richer, while the poorer have gotten poorer.

For the first time in our city's recent history, we can no longer avoid that our city is built on the backs of Black women, immigrants, disabled people, the LGBTQ+ community, and the working poor. They have been the invisible drivers keeping the city going yet continue to be left behind. Our system is not broken; it is working as it was designed to work.

You don't reform an inequitable, exclusive system. You transform it."

Loyalty and Accountability Morales sees racial justice and public safety as key to the city's reopening and proposes an overhaul of New York City's institutions to confront pandemic deepened inequality. Her proposals include realigning funds from the over-generous New York Police Department's budget to reinvest in community responses.

Dianne is the only former NYC public school teacher in the race so far. Having grown and raised children in the public school system, she has experienced how segregated schools have divided young people based on race, ZIP code, and income.

Dianne Morales Photo credit: Morales’ Campaign

This serves as a basis for her commitment to meeting the needs of fellow community members.

In an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, she explains that there are three main reasons why she considers herself best qualified for the position. It is a combination of her 'reflexive experiences,' life of service, and the loyalty and accountability she feels towards the communities.

"My loyalty and my accountability are to the community first. I don't have a long career in politics at all. My campaign has been built on the idea of elevating the working class, immigrants population, black and brown of New York City. As I move forward, I am moving with all of you …"

address the community's needs, building affordable housing, and addressing police brutality.

She firmly believes that certain groups, especially the people of color and other

minority groups, must be reconsidered and looked after on budgets. Addressing the issue of housing, she said, "Housing is a critical priority; I think that we need to make sure that we prioritize and create affordable housing."

And the other critical issue is addressing police brutality. Morales says, "We need to take on the police violence and brutality that is disproportionately affecting our communities. I am dismayed by the ongoing killing of our people and how the militarized policing system disproportionately harms our communities."l Listen to podcasts of Dianne Morales’ full exclusive interviews on People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at www.pppradio.nyc.

You may also listen to full shows of People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at anchor.fm/pppradio, on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, and RadioPublic.

Dianne’s Themes Promoting the themes of dignity, solidarity, and care, Dianne Morales' policy platform operates on the principle that politics should work for all New Yorkers.

A stronger city is formed when residents are prioritized, and oppressive systems and barriers are eliminated.

She sees a need to ensure that the people who help keep New York City afloat, the essential workers who worked in and out of a pandemic, cared for and protected from the struggles created by the imbalanced system. "...I don't think anyone comes from our community and reflects our community that is really focused on prioritizing our concerns at the city-wide level. It is time to have someone in leadership who is going to make sure that our communities are a priority and that we are in the center moving forward…"

The First 100 days Some of the critical issues that Ms. Morales intends to address when elected include reviewing the city's budget to

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30

NYC ELECTIONS

Raymond J. McGuire: A Contender for the 2021 New York City Mayoral Race

BY CAW EDITORIAL STAFF

R

aymond J. McGuire, also known as Ray McGuire, is a husband, a father, an accomplished businessman, and a contender in the crowded 2021 race to see who will be elected the next mayor of New York City. The 64year-old African American male from Dayton, Ohio, was raised by a single mother and grandparents. During an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, Raymond J. McGuire stated, "...I know what it's like not to have, I know what it's like when your mom has to go from paycheck to paycheck and decide whether or not she's going to pay rent or pay the utility bill."

McGuire shares that he never knew the identity of his biological father.

However, despite his humble beginnings, McGuire has an Ivy League Harvard University education, conquered Wall Street as an investment banker, and is said to be worth an estimated value of $20million, according to public data reports.

Unique Ability & Life Story Although Raymond McGuire does not have any prior political experience, he does not view his lack of political experience as a hindrance. "I have the unique ability to pull this city together and lead us forward," stated McGuire during the interview. McGuire expressed the factors that would contribute to his ability to function well as the next mayor of New York City. Factors such as his lived experiences, the relationships he's been able to build in business, and his ability to manage large budgets. The former CitiGroup executive revealed, "I am running because of my life story. New York needs economic recovery. McGuire hopes that his journey from struggle to prominent global businessman will help voters see he is the best person to move the city forward in the right direction.

"The management experience I have, the relationships are going to be critical here, and the vision; that gives me a different perspective than those playing the same old political games," expressed Raymond McGuire.

"As I look ahead to what's going to be

Ray McGuire.

Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

needed here, I know how to tackle the big challenges with high stakes because my business career required it," said McGuire.

McGuire's mayoral campaign's considerable emphasis is focused on economic recovery and the need to create jobs in New York City. McGuire is hopeful that focusing on the city's economic comeback, along with his experience as an investment banker and building wealth, will make him a candidate who can connect with voters of various races, cultures, and ethnicities of different ages and incomes levels. "I'm going after the Black, Latino, and White, Asian voters, voters of all ages in every neighborhood, of every income level with my message," stated McGuire.

Although McGuire is clearly most confident in his banking experience and ability to build wealth to attract voters to him and his message, he has addressed multiple community issues during his campaign. During his exclusive interview, McGuire stated that the significant issues affecting New York City at this time are "...Covid, the economy, and racial and religious segregation."

During various interviews with the press, McGuire describes himself as a strong supporter of education and wants to see school-aged children in New York City return to the school buildings. He also discussed the need for a comprehensive plan to create affordable housing and prevent evictions, as well as the need for "…policing that is respectful, accountable, and proportionate."

During his interview with Caribbean American Weekly, McGuire discussed his economic recovery plan for New York City, called "Go Big, Go Small, Go Forward." He said, “this is a plan for Black and Brown people, for all people."

He also dsicussed his plans to focus on education and small businesses, the need to put money back into small businesses, and the need to create more jobs, affordable housing, and make broadband accessible for all.

Does Raymond J. McGuire have what it takes to win the 2021 mayoral race?

If Raymond McGuire were elected the next mayor of New York City, he would be the second African-American male to hold the position. Not since the 1990s, when the late Honorable David Dinkins was in office, there was an AfricanAmerican in that position. There are 3 African-Americans, including McGuire, in this packed competition to see who will be elected the next mayor of New York City.

Gwen Carr, the mother of Eric Garner, has given her endorsement to the McGuire campaign. Ms. Carr stated that she feels Raymond J. McGuire is the best person for mayor because he "…would know how to get things done," said Carr.

The McGuire campaign has also received endorsements from some celebrities, athletes, and Assembly Members Vivian Cook and Robert Rodriguez. "All that has to happen between now and June is more people getting to know and meet Ray said

Assembly member Robert Rodriguez to the press.

Director Spike Lee, actors Samuel L. Jackson and Steve Martin, to name a few, have publicly endorsed McGuire. Bigtime celebrities and hip-hop artists, including Sean "Jay-Z" Carter, Sean "Diddy" Combs, and Nasir "Nas" Jon, as well as Steve Stoute, former record executive, have publicly announced their endorsements for McGuire. Former Run DMC Rapper Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons also announced his endorsement of McGuire.

Each of these artists has also made their mark with business ventures outside of their hip hop careers. Collectively, they said that McGuire was the candidate of choice because of his leadership ability.

They described McGuire as the type of leader New York City needs for its comeback during interviews. During his campaign, McGuire has focused on showing himself as the most skilled candidate to lead New York City's economic recovery. McGuire hopes these endorsements help demonstrate his ability to relate to Black voters on more than just a business level and broaden his appeal to Black voters.

Chairman of the Democratic Party, Representative Gregory W. Meeks, also endorsed McGuire. McGuire's supporters see the endorsement from Meeks as a major win and hope it will help voters gain confidence in choosing Raymond J. McGuire as the next mayor of New York City. When asked about his thoughts concerning McGuire's low performance in early polls, Meeks said, "This is the beginning...I refer everyone back to eight years ago. At that time, Bill de Blasio was nowhere on a polling site."

Raymond J. McGuire remains hopeful he can be the one to replace New York City's Mayor, Bill De Blasio.l Listen to podcasts of Ray McGuire’s full exclusive interviews on People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at www.pppradio.nyc. You may also listen to full shows of People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at anchor.fm/pppradio, on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, and RadioPublic.

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32

NYC ELECTIONS

Shaun Donovan Brings 30 Years of Public Service Experience to the NYC Mayoral Race

BY CAW EDITORIAL STAFF

S

haun Donovan has 30 years of experience in public service. The combination of his Ivy League school training, serving in prestigious specialized positions under former President Barack Obama, and a sector of great sensitivity like budgeting and housing places him as a strong candidate for a job that requires technical skills in strategy and delivery. Plus, he has served in New York.

Born to an immigrant Irish father and a Jewish Mother, he considers his early experiences as the grandson and son of an immigrant a unique component in his history that will appeal to various community members.

His long service at all levels, both at the local, state, and federal levels, makes him a strong contender in the Mayoral race. Between 2004-2009, under the leadership of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, he served as the New York City Department of Housing

Preservation and Development Commissioner. After which, he rose to perform at the federal level between 2009-2014 as the country's Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.

Between 2014-2017 as the Director of the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.

Combination of Ability and Experience Shaun believes in his ability to bring remarkable changes to New York City as a Mayor. He considers his experience and background vital and an asset to the job. In an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, he said, "We certainly do not need a rookie as a Mayor right now. And we've seen in the last eight years people that are more interested in repeating the same rhetoric than reality, more interested in politics than people."

Donovan explains that some of his experiences while growing up contributed to his deep-rooted desire to

Shaun Donovan Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

serve the public. "No one in this race knows how to rebuild from the crisis, the way that I do, and I will make sure that as we rebuild, we are creating a fair New York that actually works for every New Yorker, particularly for immigrants and those who are left behind so often."

He emphasizes the fresh perspectives he will bring to the job. In particular, he stressed that "What New Yorkers want is a change, they are fed up with the political status quo, there are many people in this race that are part of that political status quo. There are just a few of us that are coming from outside politics to try to make a difference. But I am the only one of those who have real experience in communities around New York for three decades. Making a difference, creating affordable housing, ending homelessness, ensuring immigrants are protected. All of those things I have done for 30 years."

In addition to being a great leader, he intends to save the City's mass transit by fully introducing the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service throughout the City. He also wants to expand accessibility and equity to essential services to all New York City residents by introducing the "15-minute city" or bike ride plan.

Issues and Results in the first 100 days In the first hundred days of assuming office, he intends to hit the ground hard, delivering on ensuring a healthy New York City with many vaccinated New Yorkers. In the interview, he emphasized, "First, we have to make sure we have the healthiest, safest City in the world, and that means ensuring that every single New Yorker has access to a vaccine. We need to make sure that we send mobile vaccination sites out into the community, public housing, in our library. Everywhere that New Yorkers need access, particularly black and brown communities. We have to make sure that we are protecting New Yorkers

from this terrible virus."

Another major priority is fixing the economic pandemic that follows the COVID-19 pandemic. Donovan says, "We have to realize that after the pandemic, we have an economic pandemic, deepening inequalities that existed before, and that means we have to put over 500,000 New Yorkers back to work. I have the clearest and boldest plan to do that. Get all our businesses back to opening and accelerate the economy. " Endorsements Donovan is endorsed by notable public figures across the country like the Mayor of New Orleans - Mitch Landrieu, Miami – Manny Diaz, Philadelphia – Michael Nutter, a former leader in East Brooklyn Congregations, Rev. Johnny Ray Youngblood, actor Edward Norton, Assembly Members Michael Benedetto, Charles Fall and former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx. Some organizations like 314 Action Fund, Metro Industrial Areas Foundation, East Brooklyn Congregation have all endorsed him.l

Listen to podcasts of Shaun Donovan’s full exclusive interviews on People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at www.pppradioshow.nyc. You may also listen to full shows of People, Power, & Politics Radio Show at anchor.fm/pppradio, on Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, and RadioPublic.

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33

NYC ELECTIONS

Antonio Reynoso Is Ready to Be the Next Borough President of Brooklyn addressing some of the challenges faced in the borough. Reynoso believes that when issues and solutions are uncoordinated, inequities grow.

Reynoso feels that economic inequality is an injustice and is committed to putting an end to it.

BY CAW EDITORIAL STAFF

B

orn to immigrant parents from the Dominican Republic, Antonio Reynoso, who considers himself a Caribbean man, commenced his political career over a decade ago, backed with a bachelor's degree in political science. He knows how to engage with community members through his earlier experiences as a Community Organizer for NYC ACORN, before joining Councilmember Diana Reyna as Chief of Staff in 2009.

He considers himself progressive and promotes his candidacy based on his personal experiences as an offspring of immigrants. His parents are immigrants who leveraged on policies in the society to raise him. His desire to serve as the next Brooklyn Borough President is a way of paying forward, according to him, "An opportunity to give back to a community that has given him a lot."

Track Record While representing City Council District 34, he has focused on issues of transportation, especially transit, environmental justice, and police accountability. He also chaired various committees, including Sanitation and Solid Waste Management.

He considers himself an outspoken activist for ambitious and bold reforms, such as challenging policies that encourage police brutality. As a City Council member, he called for greater police accountability and reallocation of funds.

He has said, "New Yorkers are sick and tired of hollow promises – we need real action so that no family is forced to endure another tragedy at the hands of the police…."

Antonio Reynoso Photo credit: Reynoso Campaign

to community boards. What's more, he plans to strongly encourage community participation and apply a holistic approach to the borough's development strategy rather than the imposed rezoning and the use of blocks of development strategy.

On education, Reynoso opposes any increase in the charter school cap because he feels that there are some fundamental issues of concern, such as the double standard that is obtainable in charter and not public schools.

As a child of immigrants and with such a diverse immigrant population in Brooklyn, Reynoso is very conscious of

immigrants' challenges. As Borough President of Brooklyn, he plans to set up a pro-bono legal service to assist with critical issues, such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Reynoso believes in and strongly supports public transit. For example, he supports the building of more dedicated busways, bike-riding, and building protected bike lanes for riders, and he will be expanding both plans if elected.

A borough-wide approach to addressing infrastructure issues such as limiting the construction of waste stations in lowincome communities of color is an approach he intends to explore in

Endorsements For all his ideas and convictions, a combination of notable people in the progressive organizations, elected officials, and community members has endorsed him.

Some public figures and colleagues include City Council Members like Helen Rosenthal, Margaret Chin, and Brad Lander. State Senators Julia Salazar and Jessica Ramos have also endorsed his ambition.

Terrence Floyd (brother of George Floyd), Victoria Davis (sister of Delrawn Small), who are victims of police brutality, also supports his ambition and groups like the Working Families Party, Make the Road Action, and the New Kings Democrats.l Listen to Reynoso’s interview at www.pppradio.nyc

Issues and Plans for the Borough Convinced of his ability to make a significant difference, City Council Member believes he can deliver if elected as the next Borough President of Brooklyn because of his knowledge and understanding of the main issues that can make a difference. He intends to focus on land use and development issues, minority health equity, immigration, diversifying community boards, promoting infrastructural policies that will benefit more working people, and limiting policies that quickly affect minority groups.

Specifically, he is determined to creating health equity for Black women who have endured poor health outcomes over the years. In his view, he wants to address discussions on Black women's health during childbirth. He considers it one of the most significant forms of inequities in New York City, particularly in Brooklyn.

Reynoso also plans to advocate for comprehensive planning legislation, including providing technical assistance VISIT WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR THE LATEST CARIBBEAN NEWS, IMMIGRATION UPDATES, VIEWPOINTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE!LIKE US ON FACEBOOK @CAWNYC!

34

NYC ELECTIONS

Jo Anne Simon – A Trailblazer Candidate for the President of Brooklyn Borough

BY CAW EDITORIAL TEAM

D

emocratic Assemblywoman Jo Anne Simon is a trailblazer on many counts – if elected, she will be the first female to hold the position of Brooklyn's Borough President. A qualified Brooklynite, who has lived in the City for almost 40 years, she grew up in Yonkers as the oldest girl in an Italian immigrant family and was the first to attend college.

Simon is an accomplished attorney specializing in disability civil rights and a politician with over 25 years of experience. She has served in various capacities in the borough's communities focusing on changing the decision-making process in environmental justice issues, increasing access to education, affordable housing, advocating for street safety, and bringing fiscal responsibility to the public agenda.

Community Leader Assemblywoman Jo Anne lives with her partner, and her grandchildren and stepsons live in New York. She graduated from Iona College, has an advanced degree in Education of the Deaf, and earned a law degree from Fordham University School of Law.

Jo Anne Simon Photo credit: Simon Campaign

She is a recognized expert who has served as a judicial law secretary and taught in Hofstra University School of Law's clinical program. She is considered an expert in civil rights law for persons with disabilities. Simon considers herself a community activist.

In an exclusive interview with Caribbean American Weekly, Simon stated that "I have been working my entire life to empowering marginalized communities: as a disability civil rights lawyer, community leader, and a former teacher of deaf children, as a leading advocate of people with reading disabili-

ties. So, I believe that my background and ability to work with people across the board is something that I bring to this position in a fundamentally different way than anybody."

Having served in over 25 positions ranging from the President of the Boerum Hill Association, she has also led various positions in Traffic & Transportation, Land Use, and Atlantic Yards committees. She also served in different capacities as Founder or Cofounder of numerous organizations.

In her interview, Simon emphasized that "I have a long history as a community leader and organizer working with communities primarily through Western Brooklyn on environmental justice issues, transportation, and land-use issue, which all intersect in our everyday life.

It's the intersection that forms our lives and creates some barriers that affect our community, life, health, and education.

These are issues I dealt with for a long time as a community person. The borough Presidency is a job that is not hierarchical. It is the Senior Political person in the borough but in reality, what the borough president does is empower communities. They have the power of convening, the power of advocacy, the strategic use of capital dollars and other

funding to support goals or social goals to improve people's lives."

She considers herself the best candidate for the job because of her ability to work with various stakeholders. She explained that she intends to work with community members collaboratively, allowing different representations around the table.

"What I learned by working with communities is that they want a seat at the table. It is my goal to ensure that people no longer pull up a folding chair. At my table of being the Borough President, there will be a seat for all."

Issues to be addressed in the first 100 days In the first 100 days, Simon claims she will focus on recovering from the impact of COVID-19, addressing access to immigration and legal services, and getting a sense of how to manage land use in the borough. She explained, "We need to address those issues, access to immigration services and legal services …too many of our people really have issues that they need the advice and guidance of a lawyer. They don't have access to that; that is something I will set up." l

Listen to Simon’s interview at www.pppradio.nyc

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WE’RE ALL TIRED OF COVID-19 But COVID-19 isn’t over yet.

Neither is our fight.

SO, WHAT’S NEXT?

KEEP GETTING TESTED OFTEN, EVEN WITH NO SYMPTOMS, UNLESS FULLY VACCINATED*

GET TESTED IMMEDIATELY IF YOU FEEL COLD OR FLU SYMPTOMS

STAY MASKED AND DISTANCED

AND WHEN IT’S YOUR TURN, GET VACCINATED

Preventing the spread of COVID-19 starts with knowing if we have it.

TESTING IS AVAILABLE AT NO COST TO YOU.

Visit testandtrace.nyc or call 212-COVID19 *If you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you do not need to get tested, unless you have COVID-19 symptoms. There may be different testing requirements in certain settings.

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