Caribbean American Weekly - Issue 141

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ISSUE 141 VOLUME 22

December 30, 2021

SERVING THE CARIBBEAN AND HISPANIC COMMUNITIES!

Desmond Tutu: The Staunch and Steadfast Healer of a Nation

BY ANDREW HARDING AFRICA CORRESPONDENT, BBC NEWS

D

esmond Tutu is remembered with so much joy and affection by so many different people around the world today, that it may seem hard to imagine a time or place when he was viewed, not as a courageous moral crusader, but as a devil.

It was the mid-1970s, and South Africa was ruled by a white-minority regime through a brutal system of racial apartheid. Nelson Mandela was in prison

Outgoing CARICOM Chairman, Hon. Gaston Browne End of Year Statement ....2

Editorial credit: Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com

continued on page 4

4 New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier Environment in 2022 ....3

A Chat with Brad Lander: NYC’s New Comptroller

BY LINDA NWOKE SPECIAL TO CAW

N

ow that the election for the various positions in New York City is concluded, with winners announced, New Yorkers are wondering what next, when can we begin to see the changes promised during the campaign?

We caught up with one of the newly elected officials, the NYC comptroller, a vital position that contributes significontinued on page 8

Mayor de Blasio and Mayor-elect Eric Adams Announce ‘Stay Safe and Stay Open’ Plan for Schools ....6

Call 855-768-8845

Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

Keep Your Personal Information Safe ....5

Jamaican Dancehall artist Shenseea Makes History ....13

Knowledge is Power when you use it!

Get a FREE Consultation!

Ask the Lawyer:

What Kwanzaa Means for Black Americans ....18

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

Goal for 2022: Become a Paralegal ....12

City Announces $1.5 Million in Funding to Help Newly Arrived Haitian New Yorkers ....10

Stress is Contagious in Relationships. Here’s What You Can Do to Support Your Partner and Boost Your Own Health ....16

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SPECIAL CARIBBEAN 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 630 Third Avenue, 7th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 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, 4th 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

End of Year Statement by the Outgoing Chairman of the CARICOM, the Hon. Gaston Browne

W

e have come to the end of what has been a very challenging year for our Community and its Member States.

However, we have used our collective wit, wisdom and strength to combat the adversity with which we have been confronted.

We have endured the shocking assassination of a sitting Head of State and Government, the continuing spectre of COVID-19, an earthquake, tropical storms and a distressing volcanic eruption, which have all tested our mettle in 2021. The disappointment at the outcome of COP26 has also occasioned pause for thought.

We are all still deeply disturbed and saddened at the abhorrent and reprehensible killing of the President of Haiti, His Excellency Jovenel Moise – an action that is not in consonance with the values that we hold dear. To their immense credit, the people of Haiti remained relatively calm despite the tragedy occurring at a time of deep turmoil in the country.

We continue to monitor closely the ongoing situation in our Member State and have offered to facilitate a process of national dialogue and negotiation to help the Haitian people, and their institutions, to craft an indigenous solution to the crisis.

We also commiserated with Haiti, as more than 2000 people lost their lives as an earthquake triggered catastrophic damage in the southwest of the country, also causing extensive damage to infrastructure.

Another major natural disaster occurred with the eruption of the La Soufrière Volcano on St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It uprooted one-fifth of the population, made one-third of the country uninhabitable and destroyed a significant percentage of its agriculture. Ashfall affected neighbouring islands prompting the shutdown of the Airport in Barbados.

The solidarity of the Community was again in evidence as Antigua and

Hon. Gaston Browne, CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda. Photo credit: CARICOM

Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, and Saint Lucia all agreed to take in evacuees from the areas made uninhabitable by the volcano.

It was also demonstrated in the efforts to acquire the life-saving vaccines to protect our people and give our countries a chance to begin the urgently needed economic recovery. The sharing of highly appreciated donated vaccines from the Government of India, the dogged persistence led by our Heads of Government, which eventually secured supplies from the United States, and the engagement of the African Medical Supplies Platform for vaccines at discounted costs exemplified the unity which is the heartbeat of Community.

However, we have not been as successful in persuading sufficient of our citizens to be vaccinated to achieve herd immunity, and to reduce the rate of infections and deaths, as well as the stress on our health systems and personnel.

Taking the vaccine is one act of goodwill towards our fellow citizens that resonates with this season of joy.

The past year saw us strengthen our relationship with Africa at the historic first ever CARICOM-Africa Summit.

The Summit recalled the spirit and vision of the first Pan-African conference of 1900 and affirmed the commitment of the current African-Caribbean leaders to

revive and renew the relationship.

It has also been a landmark year for our Community as Dr. Carla Barnett, a national of Belize, became the first woman to become the Secretary-General of CARICOM. Heads of Government look forward to working with her in continuing the quest for the sustainable development of the Community. Dr. Barnett has replaced Ambassador Irwin LaRocque whose commitment and hard work advanced the regional agenda.

As we come to the end of the year, it brings to a close the two-year term of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the United Nations Security Council. Our CARICOM Member State made excellent use of the opportunity to highlight the issues of importance to small states.

While St. Vincent and the Grenadines ends its term on the Security Council, Antigua and Barbuda took over leadership of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). In that capacity, the country ensured that AOSIS played a key role in the negotiations at the recently concluded COP26 in Glasgow, Scotland.

Those achievements would have made Sir Lester Bryant Bird proud. That giant of integration passed away during the year. A national hero of his country, Antigua and Barbuda Sir Lester’s contribution to the development of his country, the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Caribbean Community was immense.

Another stalwart of regional integration, Sir James Mitchell, also passed away during the year. This indomitable champion of Caribbean unity left an indelible mark on his country, the OECS and CARICOM. The commitment of such men as Sir Lester and Sir James must serve as an inspiration to us all, as we continue to build our Caribbean Community into a resilient Region capable of surmounting whatever obstacles to progress are placed in our path.

Have a happy and safe holiday season.l

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THOUGHTS

4 New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthier Environment in 2022

BY VINIECE JENNINGS THE CONVERSATION

Exercise more consideration for how your actions impact the environment We each have an environmental ethic reflecting how we value, manage and ultimately relate to nature. Balancing the scales of reciprocity between us and nature – how much we give and take – can improve this relationship in many ways. Whether it’s our addiction to oneuse plastics that pile up in landfills or fossil fuels that warm the planet, a mishandled relationship with nature is not doing us or the Earth any favors.

In 2022, we can all take more responsibility for how our actions exacerbate environmental problems. We can also encourage governments and businesses to make it easier for people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to protect the environment. This includes making recycled goods affordable and reliable public transportation widely accessible.

Check out the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s resources describing some very simple ways to reduce waste at home, work, in our communities and during the holidays. Tips from the website include turning off or unplugging lights during the day, reusing packaging materials and using online billing services instead of paper mail.

Lose the weight of social injustice – it harms nature, too The perils of social injustice stress multiple aspects of society. Racism and inequality can lead to health disparities, and they also have consequences for the

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

Pearl Phillip

W

hen many people think of New Year’s resolutions, they brainstorm ways to improve themselves for the year ahead. What if we expanded those aspirations to include resolutions that benefit our communities, society and the planet, too?

It might not be a typical approach, but it can broaden your horizons to show ways you can also be of service to others.

Here are four popular New Year’s resolutions with a twist for improving your relationship with nature in 2022 and beyond.

TEAM

Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Kenrick Williams Feature Writers Linda Nwoke Victoria Falk natural environment.

A recent study described how practices such as redlining and residential segregation led to unequal access to nature, excess pollution and biodiversity loss.

These practices brought in highways and industries that harm environmental quality in marginalized communities. They also left neighborhoods with fewer parks and trees that provide cooling in summer and benefit the planet.

Perpetuating social ills like systemic racism and inequitable resource allocation is detrimental to the environment, marginalized people and society as a whole.

To help turn this around, you can speak out in your community. Join groups that are trying to promote environmental protection and social justice and are bringing nature back to communities. Call your city, state and Congressional leaders to urge them to take action. Also, refer to the Green 2.0 report’s section on making diversity initiatives successful for concrete ways that you can actualize this in your place of work.

Learn something new about nature and how to reduce harm to the environment and yourself Clean air, water and soil are fundamental for our survival, but research shows many people lack basic environmental and health literacy to know how to protect themselves.

In 2022, get to know your own impact on the environment. Read more and start exploring ways to preserve the integrity of your area’s natural resources. For example, find out where you can stay

abreast of local land-use decisions that impact the environment and your overall community.

You can also support local educators and encourage them to bring the environment into lessons. Environmental issues overlap many other subjects, from history to health. This website includes a framework and materials for educators to help students expand their environmental literacy.

Staying plugged in with media that discuss the latest research can enhance awareness. You can also try tying environmental facts and knowledge into your game night and team-building activities.

Spend more time with family and friends in nature Studies show that spending time in nature, including urban green spaces, can improve your relationship with nature and with others.

Time in nature can increase social cohesion. Throughout the pandemic, many people discovered the outdoors as a place to decompress and reduce stress.

Spending more time outdoors can encourage social interactions that benefit health, buffer emotional distress and encourage use of these spaces, which can help protect them for the future.

Collectively, thinking about our relationship with nature and finding ways to protect the environment can help us be better stewards of the planet.l Viniece Jennings is an Assistant Professor of Public Health, Agnes Scott College

Contributors Jennine Estes Tarsha Gibbons Janet Howard Mary Campbell Travis Morales Chris Tobias Email info@myiqinc.com Telephone 718-771-0988 Website www.cawnyc.com

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IN MEMORIUM Desmond Tutu/ continued from page 1 and his Soviet-backed liberation movement, the ANC, was outlawed.

Increasingly, white South Africans focused their fears and hatred on a diminutive but outspoken Anglican priest, recently appointed to a prominent Church position in Johannesburg.

"Tutu was the devil incarnate. Literally.

One of our family friends said that. He was the embodiment of evil, and the hatred was just extraordinary," remembered John Allen, a white journalist who later became Desmond Tutu's official biographer.

"It was an era when the leadership of the liberation movements was banned, jailed or in exile, and here was this person who was saying what most black South Africans felt. Tutu really was public enemy number one, when Mandela was out of sight, out of mind. He had this extraordinary power to communicate. He would not honey his words so as not to offend white Anglicans," said Allen.

From his pulpit, Tutu spoke out against apartheid in a city where black people their lives controlled by strict racist laws — required special passes simply to walk into "white" neighborhoods.

"Tutu wasn't a front for political movements. I think that's what gave him his moral and spiritual freedom," said Peter Storey, who led South Africa's powerful Council of Churches. "It made him very powerful because he was up against an apartheid government that wrapped itself

Editorial credit: Tinseltown / Shutterstock.com

in the Church… and yet here was this black Anglican, able to hit the regime at one of their most vulnerable points.

"Desmond could point out to them - if you claim to be Christian, how can you possibly treat my people like this? This is why he was such an irritant to them."

Frank Chikane, a prominent liberation leader who was poisoned, and nearly killed, by the same apartheid security forces that also looked for ways to silence Tutu, said: "Tutu was the face of the liberation struggle. The voice of the people. He was a key prophetic voice.

But he was non-violent, from beginning to end."

"It was a very scary moment," Peter Storey recalled, of the time when he and Tutu were kidnapped and taken into the bush by armed men who said they had instructions "to kill us".

"For some reason they let us go. Later… we were driving down the road back to Pretoria when Desmond said, 'let us pray.'

He was at the wheel… and his eyes were closed. So, I held the wheel. I didn't want to give death another shot at us so soon

afterwards.

"But that was Desmond. Nobody understands him unless they understand how deeply he was a man of prayer. I remember him saying, 'I'm not afraid of these people, because the worst they can do is kill me. And I'm not afraid of death," said Peter Storey.

But Tutu — increasingly prominent as the face and voice of the liberation movement — combined fearlessness with a famously mischievous sense of humor, which often helped him to diffuse tensions when confronted with angry crowds in black townships, often after funerals.

"He had the ability to channel people's anger, and then the ability to say 'we are better than those people who are up against us, we don't have to be like them," Peter Storey said.

"And he would use humor at times like that. At the very darkest moments you would hear this diminutive bishop stand up and say to the regime, 'why don't you join the winning side before it's too late?'

And people would laugh. But they would also know he was telling the truth because he was so utterly convinced that justice would prevail."

John Allen recalled: "There is a giggle.

But to me it's a cackle. Mostly it was uproarious laughter. And he used to say that laughing is very close to crying."

Abroad, Tutu was also known for his humor when engaging with foreign leaders and pushing for the imposition of sanctions against South Africa's apartheid government, but he could be

brutally frank too.

"He was very critical in terms of campaigning for sanctions. He was key, there's no doubt about it. He came at the right time," recalled Frank Chikane.

"Tutu was scathing of the blindness of people who — for economic and political reasons — had a stake in preserving white dominance in South Africa. His opinion of Ronald Reagan was scathing.

He called him [a racist]. Tutu's role was to be clear cut, and not to allow himself to be sucked into the ifs and buts and compromises," said Storey.

Later, in the aftermath of South Africa's first democratic elections and the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to delve into the crimes of the apartheid era, those working closely with Tutu saw his public tears, and frequent songs, as the work of a man trying to hold a mirror up to a deeply damaged society.

"There were many moments when he would cry," said Pumla GobodoMadikizela, who served on the TRC's human rights violations committee.

"And he started the practice of singing… about the pain of our past. It was almost as if he was carrying the whole country on his shoulders. He walked into the room, and you could feel the sense of hope — no question about it.

He was almost like royalty, representing the journey towards freedom for everybody. He was driving the country towards peace and that process (at the TRC) continued on page 5

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5

DIASPORA CONCERNS

Keep Your Personal Information Safe in the New Year

Desmond Tutu/cont’d from page 4

BY JIM KREIDLER, CONSUMER EDUCATION SPECIALIST, FTC

A

s 2021 winds down, lots of us are making resolutions for a fresh start in the New Year — maybe to exercise regularly, get our finances in order, or spend more time with friends. But your list isn’t complete until you add “update my security software” and “protect my personal information” to the mix. Scammers and hackers are always looking for new ways to steal your personal information online.

Here are some steps you can take to help protect yourself and your information: Keep your security software, internet browser, and operating system up to date. Updating your software regularly helps make sure you have critical patches and protections against security threats.

Create and use strong passwords.

Making a password longer — 12 characters or more — is one of the easiest ways to increase its strength. Consider using a passphrase of random words so that your password is more memorable, but avoid

using common words or phrases. Check out this password checklist, and don’t use the same password for different accounts.

your files to an external storage device.

That way, if something happens — say a virus, your device crashes, or you’re hacked — you still have your files.

Use multi-factor authentication. Some accounts offer extra security by requiring two or more credentials to log in. You may have to give both a password and a passcode you get from an authentication app to log into your account. Multi-factor authentication makes it harder for scammers to log in to your accounts even if they manage to steal your username and password.

Protect your home network. Your devices, accounts, and whole network are only as secure as your router, since it’s the connecting point between your devices and the internet. Check out how to make your router more secure.

Back up your data to protect it. Keep an extra copy of all your files with a secure cloud storage service, or save

By taking a few steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the feeling of accomplishment that comes with checking something off your list! Also, remember to report fraud, scams, or bad business practices to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.l

would never have been what it was without him."

Peter Storey said: "We needed a healer.

Tutu became the nation's pastor and helped us navigate that road to healing.

The Truth commission became a safe space for people to share their pain. And also, for the bad guys — if they were willing — to come and find some kind of healing themselves. And Desmond was, I think, the perfect person to help that happen while maintaining that incredibly steely strength which refused to be pressured… particularly by the ANC." In more recent years, Tutu became fiercely critical of the ANC's failures in government, in particular its slide towards corruption. But President Jacob Zuma's administration chose to ignore, or sideline the archbishop, even attempting to prevent him from attending Nelson Mandela's funeral.

So how, in old age, did Tutu judge South Africa's current struggles - the inequality, unemployment and violence that continue to plague so many communities?

"I remember sitting with him not all that long ago and him saying, 'You know, Peter, we understand human nature. And so, we shouldn't be surprised. But we are allowed to be very, very sad,'" said Peter Storey.l

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FAMILY MATTERS

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Mayor de Blasio and Mayor-elect Eric Adams Announce ‘Stay Safe and Stay Open’ Plan for Schools

N

EW YORK: Mayor Bill de Blasio, Mayor-Elect Eric Adams, Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter, and Incoming Schools Chancellor David Banks on December 28, announced a multi-pronged approach for safely returning to school in-person this January following winter break. The Department of Education (DOE) is strongly encouraging all eligible students to get vaccinated, and all students and staff should get tested prior to the resumption of classes on January 3. The City is adding City-run testing sites this week. The DOE will double the in-school surveillance testing program and deploy millions of at-home rapid tests to allow students to continue learning in school.

These measures are in addition to the multi-layered approach to health and safety that has kept positivity rates in schools low and has successfully limited the spread of COVID-19 in schools— making them some of the safest places for students and staff to be during the pandemic. Families can book an appointment at any eligible site with "$100 incentive available" listed on

the nyc.gov/vaccinefinder or call 877VAX4NYC (877-829-4692) to find a participating site.

“Schools are among the safest places to be throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and we’re working closely with the incoming administration to keep it that way,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “By doubling COVID-19 testing in schools, getting our students vaccinated, and sending students, teachers and staff home with at-home test kits, we can keep everyone healthy and finish out this school year strong.”

“The numbers speak for themselves— your kids are safer in school,” said Mayor-Elect Eric Adams. “Thanks to testing, vaccinations, and at-home testing kits we’ll keep it that way. We’re working closely with the de Blasio Administration and we’ll be ready to bring students and staff back to the classroom on January 3rd. This is how we move our city forward.”

"The safety of our students, staff members, and communities is our top priority," said Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter. "Thanks to our multi-layered,

gold standard approach to health and safety, New York City's schools continue to be some of the safest places to be during this pandemic. These new measures in school testing build on our high standards for safety, protects our communities, and allows for students to continue receiving an excellent education in-person."

Returning to School Safely All New York City students and staff members should and are encouraged to get tested prior to January 3rd. In partnership with the Test+Trace Corps, families and DOE staff members can go to any City-run testing site to get tested or pick up readily available at-home rapid tests.

Sites with rapid tests can be found at: nyc.gov/covidtest, text “COVID TEST” to 855-48, or call 311 to find a testing site near you.

Doubling In-School Surveillance Testing The nation’s largest in-school surveillance testing program is expanding to continued on page 7

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FAMILY MATTERS

7

‘Stay Safe and Stay Open’/ continued from page 6 double the number of individuals tested in each school by including both unvaccinated students and vaccinated students, as well as staff. The random in-school surveillance program continues to provide public health experts with an accurate look at the prevalence of COVID-19 in schools. All families, regardless of whether their young person is vaccinated, should consent to in-school testing at https://www.schoolsaccount.nyc/ or return a signed consent form to their school. As part of the return to school, school leaders will continue messaging the importance of providing consent as a critical part of keeping schools open and communities safe during the winter months.

Keeping Staff Safe New State policy, which aligns with new CDC guidance and was co-written with the City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, shortens the isolation period for fully-vaccinated critical workers (including school personnel) who test positive, but are asymptomatic, to five days. Staff can return on the sixth day as long as they remain asymptomatic, have not had a fever in 72 hours, and wear an appropriate high-quality mask (such as a KN95, which will be provided to staff).

Staff will continue to have access to athome rapid tests as well as in-school testing.

November 16, 2021: Mayor elect Eric Adams and mayor Bill de Blasio visit City Hall in Your Borough Resource Fair at Madison Square Boys' and Girls' Club Navy Yard. Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

Immediately Identify & Respond to Positive Cases to Stay Open Every student and adult in a classroom with a positive case will immediately receive an at-home rapid test kit and will need to take two tests in five days.

Students who are asymptomatic do not need to quarantine and can continue attending school. This policy is more expansive than the CDC’s quarantine policy, which applies to only close contacts. The DOE is sourcing approximately two and a half million at-home rapid test kits, in addition to the one million test kits provided by the Governor, to have on hand before the start of school.

Additionally, in anticipation of a winter increase in cases, the Situation Room has doubled its staffing levels from 275 to over 500. All positive cases, including from rapid tests, will be reported directly

to the Situation Room via phone or email, and the Situation Room will provide schools with support, communications to families, and monitoring for instances of widespread in-school transmission that would result in a school closure.

Continuation of Gold Standard Health & Safety Protocols The DOE closely adheres to CDC guidance: making vaccination easily accessible and available for all, a vaccine mandate for all in-school staff members, universal indoor masking, physical distancing, routine screening testing, fully functioning ventilation systems backed up by two air purifiers in every classroom, and oversight by the Situation Room.

For the 2021-22 school year, to determine the effectiveness of COVID-19 prevention practices in New York City

Chancellor Meisha Porter. Photo credit: DOE

public schools, public health experts assessed how many students, teachers, or staff members of a New York City public school developed COVID-19 after being exposed in school, an epidemiologic measure called “secondary attack rate.”

They found that only 1 in 120 contacts developed COVID-19, or a secondary attack rate of 0.83%.

This is far below the secondary attack rate that would be expected in a household where 1 in every 7 close contacts become infected, or a secondary attack rate of 15%. Additionally, it is comparable to the secondary attack rate during 2020-21 school year when only 40 percent of students were learning in-person, indicating that prevention measures continued to be highly effective at reducing in-school COVID-19 transmission from October – November 2021. l

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Health

Bill de Blasio Mayor Dave A. Chokshi, MD, MSc Commissioner

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NYC POLITICS

8

Brad Lander/ continued from page 1 cantly to the smooth running of affairs in the City.

The comptroller-elect, Councilmember Brad Lander, who represents the Brooklyn neighborhood of Park Slope, ran his campaign focusing on pushing a post-pandemic recovery and climate change.

The following is an excerpt from his discussions with our Editor-in-Chief, where we addressed issues about his role, what New Yorkers should expect in the first 100 days of resumption, effecting changes, and more.

With over 15 years of experience in public service, Brad Lander will be working closely with the new mayorelect Eric Adams, Brooklyn's borough president who was elected Mayor.

Lander's role will serve as a check-in Eric Adam's administration. As New York City' undergoes the numerous challenges magnified by COVID 19, there is an urgent need to ensure that the more than $14 billion Covid recovery funds from the federal government are used judiciously in restoring NYC communities.

Role of the New York Comptroller Councilmember Lander explained that his job as the comptroller, the City's budget watchdog, also requires working closely with the Mayor and other city council members to render good governance in the City.

Practically, it means his position oversees the spending pattern within the City, looking out for all communities and ensuring that the proper expenditure of budget. "Our long-term fiduciary is to

NEW YORK, NY - JULY 07: City Comptroller-elect Brad Lander attends the "Hometown Heroes" Ticker Tape Parade on July 07, 2021 in New York City. Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

make sure that our public sector workers get their pensions. And also, as our City's chief accountability officer to make confident city government is keeping its promises that agencies are working well, that we're spending our money wisely. " Top priorities for the Administration in the First 100 days Paramount on the comptroller's list of proposed accomplishments in the first centennial of assuming office ensures the judicious use of the allocated resources to help the communities get out of the pandemic, particularly, setting up a tracking system to monitor performances of the different agencies. He intends to set up a tracking system to identify spending and other metrics to assess whether the expenditure meets the set goals.

"So I'm going to set up a tracking system to make sure those American Rescue Plan funds and infrastructure funds are spent wisely. But also get out to the communities that need them most, that the jobs get to people who need them, that they're living wage or union jobs, creating real opportunities. " Secondly, he will be setting up an audittracking system to track the performance

of the City's agencies. Citing an incident to buttress his point, he said, "In Southeast Queens, the number one issue was people are so upset about the garbage and the illegal dumping and the sanitation. That means there are rats all over the communities. So just getting the government to do the basics in every community is a real focus of mine."

Just as planning ahead for emergencies remains a priority, in his view, the City was ill-prepared for the crises caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. "I want to get us on a better path of thinking about what crises are coming in the long term. You know, we weren't ready for the pandemic, and we paid for it in the lives of over 30000 of our neighbors", he says. Hence there is a need to begin planning for the looming climate crisis."

According to Comptroller-elect Lander, "We know that the climate crisis is coming. We saw that in Hurricane Ida and Hurricane Sandy. We know that it'll be the front-line communities of color that will bear the brunt of it unless we do more now to make sure we're building a resilient city with principles of environmental justice in mind."

Building a Public Bank for the People of New York City The comptroller's idea of a public bank is an institution that caters to the need and interests of marginalized or minority community members through the provision of loans. A financial institution to build the community by making loans available to Minority and WomenOwned Businesses (MWB).

In his view, the public bank funds are from some of the assets and resources the City generates from taxes and can be used to promote and build values.

"Rather than put them in a private lending institution where monies might get lent out to Amazon or Facebook or Walmart, why don't we have a public bank. A bank that says we're going to lend those resources out for things that will make money, but that is consistent with our values for a thriving and more inclusive New York City," he explains.

Past reports from the NYC comptroller's office indicate assigning less than 4% of the City's more than $20 billion annual contracting budget to MWB. These reports help keep the City, his office, and other agencies accountable.

He explains, "I'm going to keep putting out the annual report that the comptroller does, that holds every city agency, including the comptroller's office accountable."

However, working with the Mayor's office to facilitate the timely payment of contracts is essential beyond producing reports. According to him, "Right now, when you get a contract from the City, it might take a year before you get paid.

And, if you're a small business that doesn't have a lot of capital, you can't wait all that time."

Therefore, the proposed public bank will support small businesses by providing loans. "This is where that public bank comes in, to provide some lines of credit or startup capital that could especially help minority and women-owned businesses get the capital they need to get started, so they could even bid on a city contract."

Supporting NYC's Immigrant Future: Making a Difference In addition to successfully supporting the passing of the 'Our City, Our Vote' bill, which strengthens the City's diversity and increases the voice of immigrants, Lander vouches to continuously support the creation of more investment opportunities for small startup businesses.

For instance, we encourage a more efficient license approval system, supporting easy access to capital and loans, promoting new rounds of affordable and cooperative homeownership programs for working-class families not ignoring affordable housing for low-income people.

"I would like to see a new round of affordable and cooperative homeownership programs like the old Mitchell Lama program. Back in the day, we used a lot of the money for affordable housing to create co-ops and homeownership opportunities, but now almost all of it goes to private developers to build rental housing." continued on page 9

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NYC POLITICS

9

Brad Lander/ continued from page 8 The Comptroller-elect addressed the issue of affordable low-income housing, especially for the homeless or 'to be evicted homeowners.

Beyond Reports Beyond all the reports, the new comptroller wants to effect changes by working hands-on with the stakeholders they support. "We have a set of ideas for how we can do that function, but in a way that works thoughtfully with the administration and agencies. So, there are opportunities at the beginning of an audit to say, Let's talk about an area we're going to look at so that when we release our findings, the commissioner will stand up together with the comptroller and say, we're diving in to fix them."

He remains an advocate for going beyond blame games and focusing on the solution. "The mayor-elect and I are convening a task force. Our teams are working together, and we're going to make sure you don't have to wait a year to get paid for that child care service or that eldercare service rendered."

Health Disparities, Job Creation and Small Business Survival Post COVID19 Since and during COVID-19, reports have shown that black and brown communities have struggled with health dis-

NEW YORK CITY - MAY 14 2015: several thousand tenants along with city council & state assembly members staged a march across the Brooklyn Bridge for affordable housing.. Editorial credit: a katz / Shutterstock.com

parities, job creation, and small business survival linked to racial injustice. The comptroller-elect acknowledged the fact, "We have to start by saying we see the ways that Black and Caribbean and Latino communities excluded from opportunities that have real consequences because of COVID in our schools, business opportunity, pay disparities and in contracting."

However, beyond being honest, he insisted it's equally important to map out and execute effective plans for a lasting change that will benefit every community member. A solution captured in the book, “The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together,” by Heather McGhee he claims. "And so, she shows how on the one hand, we have to hold that equity lens up and see disparities because it's a matter of justice and we're violating our fundamental values and principles. But

on the other hand, if we can build an economy that's genuinely equal and inclusive, it's more thriving for everyone because more people can create new businesses and succeed. You have fewer problems down the line."

Some of his immediate steps to address racial justice in his tenure include creating a new position called ‘Chief Equity Auditor’ and ensuring the team gets training from experts in the field.

He shared a call he held with Senator Schumer on the infrastructure bill and using it to effect changes; for the first time, it takes an approach to the jobs. It brings an equity lens that says we want to make sure that people of color can get the contracts, the jobs, the union apprenticeships so that those public resources n be an opportunity to right historical wrongs and create more opportunities. And we're going to hire for a position that we call Chief Equity Auditor."

New York Governorship Race The New York Governorship race is the next big thing besides the lingering COVID-19 epidemic. Lander talked about his support for Jumaane Williams, one of the contenders, someone he has worked with over the years, and believes in his candidacy, "Jumaane is someone I had the great blessing to work with all 12 years in my time in the City Council. We knew each other when he ran tenants and neighbors, and I ran the Fifth Avenue Committee. Together, we worked to pass the Community Safety Act, to combat discriminatory stop and frisk. I was proud to be his partner in passing the Community Safety Act. But I'm excited about his campaign for governor and the way that he's articulating a really bold, progressive vision of what's possible in New York state." he added.

New Wave of Progressive Change As promised during his campaign, the NYC Comptroller elect is ready to effect changes, and New Yorkers are about to witness a new wave of progressive changes.

Brad Lander, the new comptroller, is looking forward to serving the people better. Not that many people really know what the comptroller does, but we want to be partners, and we want to work with you," he says.

We look forward!l

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10

IMMIGRATION

City Announces $1.5 Million in Funding to Help Newly Arrived Haitian New Yorkers

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EW YORK: The Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) Commissioner Raquel Batista announced that the City will provide $1,500,000 in funding to help newly arrived Haitian New Yorkers access immigration legal assistance and social services.

“While Haitian migrants continue to face an uncertain future, it is imperative we continue to work with CBOs who have been leaders in helping this community,” said J. Phillip Thompson, Deputy Mayor for Strategic Policy Initiatives. “I am looking forward to how this partnership will help expand the City’s reach to the Haitian community and connect them to critical resources for their resettlement process.”

“This investment is part of the City’s continued commitment in responding to Haiti’s compounding crises over the past few months,” said Raquel Batista, Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. “We are excited to work with CBOs staffed by Haitian New Yorkers, and located immediately within our City’s Haitian communities, who provide daily support and services to their fellow community members includ-

Mexico City, Mexico - September 23, 2021: Haitian migrant families wait in the street in front of Mexican Commission for Refugee Assistance to request refuge in Mexico.Editorial credit: Nelson Antoine / Shutterstock.com

ing those who have recently resettled in New York City.”

“As a proud Haitian immigrant, I understand the importance of prioritizing the needs of Haitian asylum seekers.” said Magalie Desroches Austin, Senior Advisor and Director of the Mayor’s Office of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises. “I am glad to see the administration supporting Haitian resettlement services through Haitian run CBOs and hope that more municipalities follow New York City’s lead.”

The funds will be distributed to community-based partners that will provide

linguistically- and culturally responsive case management and immigration legal services to newly arrived Haitian New Yorkers. Case managers will work with newly arrived Haitians to determine eligibility for benefits and connect them to resources and services.

Legal services will include assistance in accessing Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other humanitarian forms of relief, removal and deportation defense, and immigration legal services capacitybuilding among local CBOs and pro bono attorneys. Efforts will also include an anti-fraud and information messaging

campaign across community and ethnic media.

In recent months, there has been a heavy increase in Haitian arrivals to the U.S. due in part to natural disasters and political upheaval in Haiti. Many of these new arrivals have resettled in the state of New York, which has the secondlargest population of foreign-born Haitians in the United States.

This investment will provide the supports needed so that community-based partners can help address the critical and social service needs of newly arrived Haitians and better understand additional challenges anticipated over the coming months.

The Haitian Studies Institute of CUNY Brooklyn College will partner with MOIA, and all involved in the initiative to ensure services and public messages are delivered in a culturally and linguistically responsive manner.

“After traveling across several miles and months to seek refuge in the U.S., thousands of Haitian New Yorkers need critical resources and supportive services to recover from the emotional, mental and physical toll of this ordeal. The allocontinued on page 11

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11

IMMIGRATION Haitian New Yorkers/ continued from page 10 cation of $1.5 million towards trusted community-based organizations will be instrumental in bolstering the extraordinary work already underway to empower, equip, and engage these families. We are removing societal barriers to legal assistance and social services by working together to ensure that our newest neighbors have a fighting chance to remain in the U.S., where they can pursue new opportunities and no longer have to live in fear. I want to thank Mayor Bill de Blasio, MOIA Commissioner Raquel Batista, and Pastor A.R. Bernard for their support in expanding access to muchneeded assistance. I met many migrants in Del Rio, TX, who shared their traumatic experiences with our small delegation of community leaders and service providers from Brooklyn. While we were on the ground, we saw firsthand the mistreatment they endured. Now is the time for us to come together as a city of immigrants – in faith and love – to take the necessary action and help one another,” said Council Member Farah N. Louis.

"By providing aid to displaced Haitians who have settled in New York, the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs is demonstrating a commitment not only to racial justice, but to human rights.

Immigrants built our nation, and by ensuring they have the resources needed to resettle, we are investing in the future success of our city and state. I look forward to partnering with the organization

Assembly member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn speaks at Mayoral candidate Eric Adams rally with supporters and elected officials at City Hall Park Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

selected by MOIA and thank the Mayor for his continued commitment to making our city more just and equitable in our recovery," said Assembly Member Bichotte Hermelyn.

"I applaud The Mayor's office for allocating funds to ensure we support Haitians seeking refuge in this city. I join advocates and elected officials in supporting this call to provide Temporary Protected Status for Haitians living in the United States and other needed services.

We must work to protect our Haitian community," said Senator Kevin Parker.

“Catholic Charities is excited to partner with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs on the Haitian Response Initiative, which brings much needed outreach and legal assistance to

New York City’s Haitian families, children, and workers, as well as many others, especially those recently resettled here from our southern borers. This innovative program will bring together the cultural, legal pro bono, and capacity building and public education experts in our Haitian communities who are ready to help migrants seeking protection and safe haven,” said Mario Russell, Director of Immigrant and Refugee Services of Catholic Charities Community Services.

“For hundreds of years New York City has been at the center of this nation’s welcome in dignity and respect to immigrants in need; we are pleased to continue this tradition today through the Haitian Response Initiative, as we know it will be part of what builds this City and a more just and compassionate society.”

"Haitian families have already faced unimaginable traumas in both their home country and in their journey towards asylum here in the U.S.," says Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, New York Immigration Coalition. "This funding couldn't come at a more critical time to support these families to integrate more fully into the city but also to find the safety, stability, and community they so desperately need. We thank the Mayor's Office for Immigrant Affairs for recognizing and meeting the needs of newcomer Haitian families to New York City, especially because our federal immigration system continues to fail them and so many other asylum seekers."l

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12

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

Goal for 2022: Become a Paralegal attorneys, opposing counsel, vendors, staff members, clients, and others. The work is varied, and each day brings new challenges.

BY THE CHAMBER COALITION

A

career as a paralegal (also known as a legal assistant) can be a wonderfully fulfilling profession. Paralegals perform legal, regulatory, and business-related research for lawyers working at their organization.

Most of the time, paralegals work for law offices, non-profits, corporations' legal departments, or courts. These professionals also provide legal support services to attorneys. They assist lawyers in filing motions, memoranda, pleadings, and briefs in various court systems and accompany lawyers to see clients and go to court. Here are five great things about being a paralegal: 1. Rise in Pay Paralegal compensation has risen steadily in the past decade. As paralegals perform a broader and more complex range of tasks (paralegals even represent clients in court in certain countries and administrative tribunals), their earnings continue to rise. The average paralegal salary hovers at around $50,000 per year, but paralegals often make more through bonuses. Overtime hours can also add significant cash to a paralegal's paycheck.

2. Explosive Employment Outlook The paralegal field is one of the fastestgrowing professions on the globe. The U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, predicts the employment of paralegals and legal assistants by over 25 percent, much faster than the average for all occupations. Among the factors driving this growth is client demand for cheaper, more efficient delivery of legal services. Since hourly rates charged by attorneys are typically double or triple the rates of paralegals for the same task, law firm economics mandates the increased use of paralegals to minimize costs. As a result, a paralegal career is one of the hottest non-lawyer jobs in the legal industry.

3. Easy Career Entry Unlike lawyers who must complete seven years of formal education and pass the bar exam to practice law, you can become a paralegal in as little as a few months of study.

4. Intellectual Challenge Paralegal work is intellectually challenging and involves a range of high-level skills. The most successful paralegals are problem-solvers and innovative thinkers.

Paralegals must become subject matter experts in their specialty areas and master legal procedure, research, drafting, and other skills. They must stay on top of ever-changing laws and new legal trends and developments while interfacing with

5. Rising Prestige As paralegals perform more complex and challenging work, paralegal prestige is rising. Paralegals are no longer simply lawyer's assistants; they assume corporate management roles, leadership roles in law firms, and entrepreneurial roles in independent paralegal businesses. Over the years, paralegals have transcended the image of glorified legal secretaries to become respected legal team members.

Ready to Take the Leap?

A career as a paralegal can be rewarding professionally and personally and offers a unique opportunity to help others; options vary, depending on the paralegal's practice area. Paralegals in the public interest sector help poor and disadvantaged segments of the population with legal issues ranging from protection from domestic abuse to assistance preparing wills. Ready to take the leap, the next step? Call us at 718-722-9217 or visit www.freeparalegal.org to complete your registration which includes payment.l

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nHEALTH

nENTERTAINMENT

nRELATIONSHIPS

Shenseea Makes History as First Woman to Win Reggae Act MOBO Award

BY STEPHANIE KORNEY, JAMAICANS.COM

nRECIPES

nSPORTS

nHOROSCOPE

Kitchen Corner

New Year's Eve Dinner: Beef Wellington Step 2 Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Saute onion and mushrooms in butter for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and let cool.

T Photo – Shenseea Instagram

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amaican dancehall artist Shenseea, 25, has received the 2021 Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Award in the category of Best Reggae Act. With her win, Shenseea becomes the first female artist to receive the Reggae Award since it was first presented in 1996.

The dancehall star was presented with the award at a ceremony at the Coventry Building Society Arena in London on December 5, 2021. The ceremony featured the first live show since 2017. Upon winning the award, Shenseea took to Instagram to share her excitement with her 4.7 million followers, writing, “I won a MOBO Award (fire emoji) @moboawards Thank you to all who voted.” Her win was also announced on the official Instagram page of MOBO, where the post read, “Huge congratulations on @shenseea for winning BEST REGGAE ACT…” Shenseea received the Best Reggae Act title over a field of competitors that included Lila Ike, Popcaan, Sean Paul, Skillibeng, and Spice.

The 2021 MOBO Best Reggae Act nomination was the second one awarded to Spice, while Sean Paul, who congratulated Shenseea in a comment on her Instagram page, was the winner of the award six times: 2002, 2004, 2006, 2009, 2012, and 2013. Two-time winner Popcaan won in 2015 and 2016, with 2021 being his seventh nomination in that category. Buju Banton was the winner in 2020.l

his traditional English dish is the perfect dinner to celebrate the end of a year and the beginning of another. Hearty beef tenderloin combines with rich pâté and buttery puff pastry to create an unforgettable New Year's Eve dinner.

By Normala, AllRecipes.com Ingredients 2 ½ pounds beef tenderloin 2 tablespoons butter, softened 2 tablespoons butter 1 onion, chopped ½ cup sliced fresh mushrooms 2 ounces liver pate 2 tablespoons butter, softened salt and pepper to taste 1 (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed 1 egg yolk, beaten 1 (10.5 ounce) can beef broth 2 tablespoons red wine Directions Step 1 Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Place beef in a small baking dish, and spread with 2 tablespoons softened butter. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until browned. Remove from pan, and allow to cool completely. Reserve pan juices.

Step 3 Mix together pate and 2 tablespoons softened butter, and season with salt and pepper. Spread pate over beef. Top with onion and mushroom mixture.

Step 4 Roll out the puff pastry dough, and place beef in the center. Fold up, and seal all the edges, making sure the seams are not too thick. Place beef in a 9x13 inch baking dish, cut a few slits in the top of the dough, and brush with egg yolk.

Step 5 Bake at 450 degrees F (230 degrees C) for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) for 10 to 15 more minutes, or until pastry is a rich, golden brown. Set aside, and keep warm.

Step 6 Place all reserved juices in a small saucepan over high heat. Stir in beef stock and red wine; boil for 10 to 15 minutes, or until slightly reduced. Strain, and serve with beef.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 744 calories; protein 26.2g; carbohydrates 29.6g; fat 57.2g; cholesterol 131.4mg; sodium 433.7mg.l

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14

GENERATIONS

Home for the Holidays and Worried About An Older Relative? Make Observations, Not Assumptions

BY LAURIE ARCHBALD-PANNONE THE CONVERSATION

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ith the second holiday season of the pandemic upon us, many people will have the opportunity to rejoin family and friends for celebrations. The pandemic has kept many of us apart longer than expected, and it may have been months since we’ve visited with our loved ones. In addition to enjoying food, folks and fun, there may be some not-so-pleasant surprises.

As a geriatrician, I often see patients whose families voice concerns about their health or well-being. This can be especially heightened if they haven’t seen each other in a while. The holidays can be an opportunity to not just enjoy the fruitcake but observe how your aging parents, grandparents or great-grandparents are doing at home. Objectively observing their functioning and memory can uncover warning signs that more evaluation is needed.

This can lead to uncomfortable situations and often feels like role reversal.

Maintaining older adults’ autonomy and dignity needs to be the core of all of these

conversations. If you are concerned about someone’s health, approach the conversation with an open mind and genuine curiosity to listen to their thoughts.

Don’t assume you understand their situation. Make observations, not assumptions.

To take a step back for a moment, I would emphasize to not form conclusions about anyone’s ability to care for themselves based on age. Many people do quite well taking care of themselves and remaining independent well into their 90s or more, while other people may need more assistance with self-care earlier in life.

Everyday functioning Take a look around the house. Have loved ones been able to keep up with basic care of the home or yard? If not, these can be signs that someone may need more help at home. Sometimes that could mean simply hiring someone to clean the pool or shovel the snow. Other times, it may be a sign of limited physical function: Maybe they can’t move around as well or bend over to pick things up.

But if basic cleaning isn’t happening,

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that could also be a sign of limitations in cognitive function – perhaps they forget to remove the trash from the kitchen for weeks or don’t remember to go to the store for basic needs. Other times, it’s just a sign that they were too busy to mow the yard before your visit. Again, don’t make assumptions, make observations – and always see them in the larger context.

Watch how your loved one is moving around the house. If they have been told to use a cane or walker before, are they?

Is their balance bad? Are they getting by with “furniture surfing,” holding on to furniture or walls while walking?

What about driving? If you have concerns, remember there are many factors that may be playing a role. It’s about skills, not age. Arthritis in the neck might make it hard to look at crossing traffic.

Vision problems can cause blurring, especially at night. Limitations in cognition can also cause trouble, such as getting lost while driving somewhere familiar – like the grocery store or a friend’s house.

If you notice signs of unsafe driving, it’s important to get loved ones evaluated for their own safety, as well as that of others on the road. Have an open and honest conversation with their health care clinician to review these concerns.

There are also community resources to help navigate these difficult conversations, such as the site alz.org for concerns about dementia and driving.

If you notice changes in your relative, remember too that the pandemic has put extra stress and anxiety on many people.

Over the past two years, some of us have not just been social distancing but also experiencing social isolation. Feeling cut off from our community can lead to serious health problems. The National Institute on Aging has great resources to understand the difference between being lonely and being socially isolated, and how to identify and act on these concerns.

See something, say something – with care The holidays can bring chaotic schedules. Many people can be overwhelmed by their commitments, or forget important plans, and it’s not necessarily a sign of dementia. Anybody can forget to bring home cranberry sauce or which exact yogurt the grandkids like.

When it may be a sign of something more significant is if memory loss affects daily life – especially things like eating, dressing and hygiene. If you notice that there may be more than typical forgetfulness, then it is time to talk.

You can ask open nonjudgmental questions to start the conversation. Avoid making assumptions – something like “Why didn’t you tell us that you’re not safe at home?” won’t start a useful conversation. Instead, start by describing your observations: “I saw that you just stumbled in the hallway. Is that something you have noticed before?” Allow space for reflection and insight. Don’t tell other people how they “should” be feeling, but listen for their own thoughts and observations.

See if your loved one would allow you to join them at an upcoming clinic visit to discuss whether there is an issue and, if so, how to make things better. If so, be there primarily as an observer or to add in details when asked. If you are not able to attend, you can consider writing a letter to describe your observations, which the patient could share with their team at the next visit.

Getting together at the holidays is intended to be a reunion of family and community to enjoy the season. Nobody wants to focus on problems, but be observant. If you see warning signs that things may not be going well, say something – thoughtfully.l Laurie Archbald-Pannone is an Associate Professor of Medicine, Geriatrics, University of Virginia

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GENERATIONS

15

Make a New Year’s Resolution to Get a Memory Screening

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EW YORK: As we approach year’s end and get ready for 2022, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is encouraging individuals to make a New Year’s resolution to get a memory screening.

“Annual screenings are important, including for our brains, which is why everyone should make getting a memory screening a New Year’s resolution for 2022,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President & CEO. “Just as we regularly check other facets of our health, we should all get a checkup from the neck up, regardless of whether or not we are having memory problems.”

Memory screenings are simple, quick (approximately 10-15 minutes) and noninvasive, and consist of a series of questions, administered by a qualified professional, to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other intellectual functions. They are similar to other routine health screenings, such as those for blood pressure, cholesterol and skin checks. Results are not a diagnosis, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation.

Early detection of memory impair-

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ments is extremely important. Many different conditions can cause memory issues, including treatable or curable conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid conditions, urinary tract infections, stress, anxiety and depression.

Even in the case of a dementia-related illness such as Alzheimer’s, early detection can provide greater opportunity to begin treatments that can help slow the symptoms of the disease, as well as taking part in a clinical trial. In addition, it affords the person the chance to take advantage of community services, such

as support groups and therapeutic programming, as well as have a greater say in making legal, financial and health care decisions.

AFA offers free, confidential memory screenings through a secure virtual format every Monday, Wednesday and Friday—appointments can be scheduled by calling AFA at 866-232-8484 or through AFA’s website www.alzfdn.org.

The service is available to everyone— there are no minimum age or insurance prerequisites.l

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16

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Stress is Contagious in Relationships – Here’s What You Can Do to Support Your Partner and Boost Your Own Health During the Holidays and Beyond

BY ROSIE SHROUT THE CONVERSATION

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ith the flurry of shopping, spending money and traveling to see family, stress can feel inevitable during the holidays.

You might already know stress can affect your own health, but what you may not realize is that your stress – and how you manage it – is catching. Your stress can spread around, particularly to your loved ones.

As a social-health psychologist, I have developed a model on how partners and their stress influence each other’s psychological and biological health.

Through that and my other research, I’ve learned that the quality of intimate relationships is crucial to people’s health.

Here’s just a sample: Relationship stress can alter the immune, endocrine and cardiovascular systems. A study of newlyweds found levels of stress hormones were higher when couples were hostile during a conflict – that is, when

they were critical, sarcastic, spoke with an unpleasant tone and used aggravating facial expressions, like eyerolls.

Likewise, in another study, people in hostile relationships had slower wound healing, higher inflammation, higher blood pressure and greater heart rate changes during conflict. Middle-aged and older men had higher blood pressure at times when their wives reported greater stress. And partners who felt they weren’t being cared-for or understood had poorer well-being and higher mortality rates 10 years later when compared

with those who felt more cared-for and appreciated by their partners.

Conflict and cortisol Cortisol is a hormone that plays a key role in the body’s stress response.

Cortisol has a diurnal rhythm, so its levels are usually highest soon after waking and then gradually decline during the day. But chronic stress can lead to unhealthy cortisol patterns, such as low cortisol levels upon waking or cortisol not tapering off much by the end of the day. These patterns are associated with

an increase in disease development and mortality risks.

My colleagues and I found that conflict altered cortisol levels of couples on the day they had a dispute; people with stressed partners who used negative behaviors during the conflict had higher cortisol levels even four hours after the conflict ended.

These findings suggest that arguing with a partner who is already stressed could have lasting biological health effects for ourselves.

Managing stress Here are three ways you can reduce the stress in your relationship, during and after the holidays.

First, talk to and validate each other.

Tell your partner you understand their feelings. Talk about big and little things before they escalate. Sometimes partners hide problems to protect each other, but this can actually make things worse.

Share your feelings, and when your partcontinued on page 17

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17

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Immigrants and Domestic Violence

BY CAW STAFF WRITER

I

mmigrants are particularly vulnerable to domestic violence because many may not speak English, are often separated from family and friends, and may not understand the laws of the United States. For these reasons, immigrants are often afraid to report acts of domestic violence to the police or to seek other forms of assistance. Such fear causes many immigrants to remain in abusive relationships.

Immigrants in the US. have the right to live a 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.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a landmark piece of legislation seeking to improve criminal legal, and community-based responses to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in the United States. This federal law provides numerous forms of protection for noncitizen women—and men—who are the victims

of domestic violence or other qualifying crimes. There are three forms of protection: “U” visas for victims of crime, “T” visas for victims of severe forms of trafficking, and “self-petitions” under the VAWA. Any victim of domestic violence — regardless of immigration or citizenship status — can seek help. An immigrant victim of domestic violence may also be eligible for immigration-related protections. If you are experiencing domestic violence in your home, you are not alone. A specialized immigration attorney should always be your first point of contact regarding 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 excellent information and also an opportunity for a FREE, noobligation legal consultation. The number to call is 855-7688845. 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

Stress is Contagious in Relationships/ continued from page 16 ner shares in return, don’t interrupt. Remember, feeling cared-for and understood by a partner is good for your emotional wellbeing and promotes healthier cortisol patterns, so being there for each other and listening to each other can have good health effects for both you and your partner.

Next, show your love. Hug each other, hold hands and be kind. This too lowers cortisol and can make you feel happier.

One study found that a satisfying relationship can even help improve vaccination response.

Then remind yourself that you’re part of a team. Brainstorm solutions, be each other’s cheerleaders and celebrate the wins together. Couples who unite to tackle stress are healthier and more satisfied with their relationships. Some examples: Make dinner or run errands when your partner is stressed; relax and reminisce together; or try a new restaurant, dance or exercise class together.

That said, it’s also true that sometimes these steps aren’t enough. Many couples will still need help managing stress and overcoming difficulties. Couples therapy helps partners learn to communicate and resolve conflicts effectively. It’s critical to be proactive and seek help from someone who is trained to deal with ongoing relationship difficulties.

So this holiday season, tell your partner that you’re there for them, preferably while you’re hugging. Take each other’s stress seriously, and no more eyerolls. It’s not so much the stress itself; it’s the way that both of you manage the stress together.

Working as an open and honest team is the key ingredient to a healthy and happy relationship, during holiday season and into the new year.l Rosie Shrout is an Assistant Professor of Human Development and Family Studies, Purdue University

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CONVERSATIONS

What Kwanzaa Means for Black Americans

BY FRANK DOBSON THE CONVERSATION

O

n Dec. 26, millions throughout the world’s African community will start weeklong celebrations of Kwanzaa. There will be daily ceremonies with food, decorations and other cultural objects, such as the kinara, which holds seven candles. At many Kwanzaa ceremonies, there is also African drumming and dancing.

It is a time of communal self-affirmation – when famous Black heroes and heroines, as well as late family members – are celebrated.

As a scholar who has written about racially motivated violence against Blacks, directed Black cultural centers on college campuses and sponsored numerous Kwanzaa celebrations, I understand the importance of this holiday.

For the African-American community, Kwanzaa is not just any “Black holiday.”

It is a recognition that knowledge of Black history is worthwhile.

History of Kwanzaa Maulana Karenga, a noted Black American scholar and activist created Kwanzaa in 1966. Its name is derived

As Keith A. Mayes, a scholar of African-American history, notes in his book, For Black power activists, Kwanzaa was just as important as the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Kwanzaa was their answer to what they understood as the ubiquity of white cultural practices that oppressed them as thoroughly as had

Jim Crow laws.” from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili, the most widely spoken African language.

However, Kwanzaa, the holiday, did not exist in Africa.

Each day of Kwanzaa is devoted to celebrating the seven basic values of African culture or the “Nguzo Saba” which in Swahili means the seven principles. Translated these are: unity, self-

determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics (building Black businesses), purpose, creativity and faith. A candle is lit on each day to celebrate each one of these principles. On the last day, a black candle is lit and gifts are shared.

Today, Kwanzaa is quite popular. It is celebrated widely on college campuses, the U.S. Postal Service issues Kwanzaa stamps, there is at least one municipal park named for it, and there are special Kwanzaa greeting cards.

Kwanzaa’s meaning for black community Kwanzaa was created by Karenga out of the turbulent times of the 1960’s in Los Angeles, following the 1965 Watts riots, when a young African-American was pulled over on suspicions of drunk driving, resulting in an outbreak of violence.

Subsequently, Karenga founded an organization called Us – meaning, black people – which promoted black culture.

The purpose of the organization was to provide a platform, which would help to rebuild the Watts neighborhood through a strong organization rooted in African culture.

Karenga called its creation an act of cultural discovery, which simply meant that he wished to point AfricanAmericans to greater knowledge of their African heritage and past.

Rooted in the struggles and the gains of the civil rights and black power movements of the 1950s and 1960s, it was a way of defining a unique black American identity. As Keith A. Mayes, a scholar of African-American history, notes in his book, “For Black power activists, Kwanzaa was just as important as the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Kwanzaa was their answer to what they understood as the ubiquity of white cultural practices that oppressed them as thoroughly as had Jim Crow laws.”

central role, not only in the U.S. but also in the global African diaspora.

A 2008 documentary, “The Black Candle” that filmed Kwanzaa observances in the United States and Europe, shows children not only in the United States, but as far away as France, reciting the principles of the Nguzo Saba.

It brings together the Black community not on the basis of their religious faith, but a shared cultural heritage. Explaining the importance of the holiday for African-Americans today, writer Amiri Baraka, says during an interview in the documentary, “We looked at Kwanzaa as part of the struggle to overturn white definitions for our lives.”

Indeed, since the early years of the holiday, until today, Kwanzaa has provided many black families with tools for instructing their children about their African heritage.

Current activism and Kwanzaa This spirit of activism and pride in the African heritage is evident on college campus Kwanzaa celebrations – one of which I recently attended. (It was done a few days early so that students going on break could participate.)

The speaker, a veteran of the Nashville civil rights movement, spoke about Kwanzaa as a time of memory and celebration. Wearing an African dashiki, he led those in attendance – blacks and whites and those of other ethnicities – in Kwanzaa songs and recitations. On a table decorated in kente cloth, a traditional African fabric, was a kinara, which contains seven holes, to correspond to the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa. There were three red candles on the left side of the kinara, and three green candles on the right side of the kinara. The center candle was black. The colors of the candles represent the red, black and green of the African Liberation flag.

The auditorium was packed. Those in attendance, young and old, black and white, held hands and chanted slogans celebrating black heroes and heroines, as diverse as the civil rights icons, Rosa Parks and Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Jamaican musician Bob Marley.

It was a cultural observance that acknowledged solidarity with the struggles of the past and with one another.

Like the black power movements, such as today’s Black Lives Matter movement, it is an affirmation of “Black folks’ humanity,” their “contributions to this society” and “resilience in the face of deadly oppression.”

Karenga wanted to “reaffirm the bonds between us” (Black people) and to counter the damage done by the “holocaust of slavery.” Kwanzaa celebrations are a moment of this awareness and reflection.l Frank Dobson is an Associate Dean of Students, Vanderbilt University

Overturning white definitions Today, the holiday has come to occupy a VISIT WWW.CAWNYC.COM FOR THE LATEST CARIBBEAN NEWS, IMMIGRATION UPDATES, VIEWPOINTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK @CAWNYC!

The lawyer you hire, does make a difference!

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