The Immigrant’s Journal - Vol. 163

The Immigrant’s Journal Vol. 163

A Journey for a Better Life & Justice

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May 5, 2022

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DHS Mayorkas Message to Migrants: Do Not Come

A

s the pandemic unfolded in 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), under former President Donald Trump, issued a public health order, a.k.a Title 42, for the first time since its creation in 1944. In March 2020, the Public Health Service Act was invoked to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the United States, specifically to stop the spread of COVID-19 in immigrant detention centers, where migrants are accommodated after they arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Over the past two years, immigration officials have enforced the law under the

DHS Secretary Mayorkas

rule against migrants more than 1.7 million times, especially those with repeated attempts to enter the U.S. Now, the CDC has fixed May 23, 2022, as the expiration date for the order due to the reduction in COVID-19 cases and the wide availabili-

ty of vaccines.

President Biden's administration intended to end the order, a campaign promise.

Plans to end Title 42 sparked legal battles from Republican state governors across Texas, Washington D.C., Arizona, and 21 other states. Interestingly, some Democratic lawmakers are also in support of keeping the order. They argue that the federal government violated administrative and procedural laws. Secondly, if lifted as planned, it could lead to unrest at the border. Hence, what commenced as a public health protection effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 across the border is transforming into a political instrument, specifically an immigration tool to continued on page 12

USCIS Increases Automatic Extension Period of Work Permits ....14

The Biden Administration Needs to Change Course on Green Cards Editorial credit: Ron Adar / Shutterstock.com

BY WALTER EWING

T

he Biden administration failed to issue many of the immigrant visas—more commonly known as green cards—that were allotted last year for immigrants who have been sponsored by a U.S. employer or family member.

Statistics released by the State Department indicate that 66,781 visas for employment-based immigrants and 141,430 visas for family-based immigrants went unused in Fiscal Year (FY) 2021. Another 35,938 Diversity Visas

President Biden

also went unused. This marks the second year in a row that over 100,000 visas for family-based immigrants went unused.

Current immigration law allows the federal government to grant up to 675,000 permanent immigrant visas (green cards) each year. Ordinarily, 480,000 visas are reserved for immigrants in the “family preference” categories, 140,000 for employment-based immigrants, and 55,000 for winners of the Diversity Visa lottery. Unused visas in the family preference categories are added to the allotment of employmentcontinued on page 13

The Anti-Immigrants Don the Cloak of Trumpism, Again ....22

Brian Figeroux, Esq.

Assemblymember Reyes: My Colleagues in Albany Need to Pass My Bill, the New York for All Act ....5

MOIA Commissioner Castro Joins Mayor Adams to Kick Off Campaign to Highlight IDNYC Expansion of Benefits ....7 Photo: NYIC

Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com

BY LINDA NWOKE, JOURNAL EXCLUSIVE

On May Day, Thousands of Immigrant Workers and Labor Leaders Marched for Path to Citizenship and Worker Protections....3

When Parents Turn Children Into Weapons, Everybody Loses ....8

WORKERS’ RIGHTS

2

Attorney General James Recovers $175,000 in Stolen Wages

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EW YORK: New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on April 29, that she has recovered $175,000 for employees of Gotham Pizza who were cheated out of their pay. Attorney General James’ investigation found that between 2016 and 2019, Gotham Pizza and its owner Michael Shamailov knowingly and intentionally failed to pay at least 10 employees proper minimum wage, overtime pay, and tips at its three locations in Manhattan.

“No matter how you slice it, fair pay is not a suggestion — it’s the law,” said Attorney General James. “For years, Gotham Pizza took advantage of its hardworking employees by failing to pay them for their work. I am proud to recover the money they have long been owed and cheated, and I will always fight to ensure New Yorkers get their fair piece of the pie.”

Gotham Pizza currently has three New York City locations: 1443 York Avenue (Upper East Side), 1667 First Avenue (Yorkville), and 144 Ninth Avenue (Chelsea).

The Office of the Attorney General’s (OAG) investigation revealed that from

2016 to 2019, at least 10 employees were paid under minimum wage, between $6 to $10 per hour when they should have been paid $11 to $15. In addition, they were never paid any overtime after working more than 40 hours per week and did not receive full tips. Gotham Pizza’s actions violated the Minimum Wage Order and New York labor laws, which require all employers to pay covered employees the applicable minimum wage and any legally required overtime rate for all hours worked over 40 hours in a workweek.

The agreement requires Gotham Pizza to pay a total of $175,000 to the 10 workers. Gotham Pizza must also provide OAG with compliance reports containing payroll information for its employee to ensure their cooperation with the law.

Additionally, OAG will conduct spot interviews with Gotham workers to confirm that wages are being consistently and properly paid. If Gotham Pizza fails to comply with the terms of the agreement or fails to provide the workers the compensation required, OAG reserves the right to bring a civil action.

The OAG's Labor Bureau enforces worker-protection laws that protect

New York NY USA-April 2, 2019 New York Attorney General Leticia James joins activists, community leaders, union members and other politicians on the steps of City Hall to rally against pay disparity. Editorial credit: rblfmr / Shutterstock.com

workers from wage theft and other exploitation and investigates alleged violations of minimum wage, overtime, prevailing wage, and other labor laws throughout the state.

The agreement announced marks Attorney General James’ most recent efforts to crack down on wage theft.

Earlier this month, Attorney General James secured nearly $900,000 for more than 200 NYCHA construction workers who were underpaid by Lintech Electric.

In March 2022, she announced agreements with two home health agencies for cheating employees out of wages and submitting false Medicaid claims. That same month, she secured an agreement

with Sanford Apt. Corp (Sanford), a cooperative residential apartment building in Flushing, Queens that refused to pay its superintendents for their work.

“As the former Commissioner of the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, I made it a priority to protect our city’s workers,” said New York City Council Member Julie Menin. “This is intolerable that Gotham Pizza has violated worker-protection laws and paid below the minimum wage.

I applaud Attorney General Letitia James for being proactive in pursuing businesses that are conducting wage theft and exploitation of its workers.”l

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3

TIME FOR ACTION

On May Day, Thousands of Immigrant Workers and Labor Leaders Marched for Path to Citizenship and Worker Protections

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ew York, NY: On May Day, known as International Workers Day, thousands of immigrant workers, labor leaders, unions and allies marched down the streets of lower Manhattan to demand a path to citizenship and worker protections.

"Immigrant workers across this country cannot wait any longer for President Biden to make good on his commitments to our communities," said Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, New York Immigration Coalition. "This May Day, immigrants and labor unions are uniting to demand safety and protection for all workers. It's time for this White House to deliver a path to citizenship to millions of essential workers and end the remain in Mexico policy, among other Trumpera racist policies that hurt our families.

New York State must also step up to deliver relief to our excluded workers who continue to toil without the safety nets afforded to the rest of us. Here, in New York, and across America immigrants have held this country together during a pandemic and are doing their part to rebuild and enrich their adopted homeland. Now, it's time for President Biden and Governor Hochul to deliver the relief and safety our families need and deserve.”

Yaritza Mendez, Co-Director of Organizing at Make the Road New York, shared, “On International Workers Day, immigrant New Yorkers are sending a clear message: undocumented workers need a path to citizenship.

Undocumented essential workers are part of the backbone of this country and economy, and many put their lives on the line during the pandemic. Yet, they remain excluded from a path to citizenship and full protections. For years, our communities have fought tooth and nail and now our Democratic leaders have the power to deliver on their promise of a path to citizenship and make it a reality. We urge President Biden and the Democratic leadership to move forward to pass permanent protections for all immigrants across the country. Now is the time.”

“On this International Workers’ Day, it is important we recognize our undocu-

TEAM Publisher I.Q. INC. Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip Senior Writer Linda Nwoke Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Kendrick Williams Anvar Sabirov Email immjournal@aol.com Visit www.ijlef.org www.falaw.us www.cawnyc.com

Editorial credit: New York Immigration Coalition

mented immigrant workers, many of whom risked their health to keep our supply chains and cities running during the global pandemic,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “Labor is the heart and soul of this country, and our economy is dependent on the blood, sweat and tears of our American workforce. As major labor victories occur across the state, from Amazon employees on Staten Island to the Starbucks partners in Buffalo, we have to continue the fight by recognizing and rewarding the contributions of our immigrant workforce and providing them with a pathway to citizenship.”

“This May Day may be one of the most significant in my time serving the labor movement. A multi-racial, mutli-ethnic groundswell is returning May Day to its roots: a recognition that all working people share a common cause. Our ability to secure recognition for Excluded Workers, to win union elections where it is supposed to be impossible, and to unify organized labor around the unique struggles of immigrant workers is made stronger by recognizing that every worker has more in common with each other than they do with the forces that keep their wages low and their hours long.

This holiday and the movement for a dignified life for workers has always been progressed by immigrant workers, and today we recommit to our cause - a world where every worker can return home to live full lives with our families after our work day is done,” said Jessica Ramos, chair of the Senate Labor Committee in

the NY State Senate.

“May Day is a reminder of the struggles workers have endured. Especially after this pandemic, we must be reminded that immigrant workers have been and are the backbone of our country, yet they are continually excluded from federal & state aid and protections. Although a day of remembrance and celebration does not compensate for the systematic exclusion of immigrants from basic human rights, it is essential that we demonstrate solidarity and uplift the beauty of our multicultural existences for our communities on May 1st, International Workers’ Day," said Brayan Pagoada, Deputy Director of Organizing at Churches United for Fair Housing (CUFFH). “Alongside our nationwide coalition, we believe the best way to continue to support immigrant workers is by passing and supporting a Pathway to Citizenship for ALL and access to federal and state resources. We won’t stop until every worker in our communities has access to strong worker protections and an accessible pathway to citizenship.”

"Immigrant workers have historically been put in unfair situations. As the pandemic progressed over the last two years, things have only gotten worse. Day laborers were the first to lose their jobs and the first to be shorted in their fair pay. Despite the risks on their health, the immigrant community took to the frontlines and supported their families and communities. They deserve better,” said Abigail Dorcin, Organizing Coordinator at La Colmena. l

Volunteering at THE IMMIGRANT'S JOURNAL LEGAL & EDUCATIONAL FUND, INC. Internship positions available throughout the year.

The Immigrant's Journal Legal & Educational Fund, Inc. is an organization dedicated to the educational and economic empowerment of all immigrants and immigrant organizations here in the United States. We at the Journal recognize the enormous contribution of immigrants to this country economically, socially and politically. Since September 11, 2001, however, immigrants have increasingly been discriminated against and Congress has passed legislation curtailing the rights of immigrants here in the U.S., broadly claiming that immigrants are a threat to ''National Security.'' We at the Journal believe that these charges are unfounded, unsubstantiated and exaggerated.

The Immigrant's Journal Volunteer Intern Program was introduced to give our volunteers the opportunity to work in an immigrant friendly environment while developing the necessary skills for college or law school. They assist our staff in resolving immigration and other legal concerns through personal interviews, radio, email and telephone contact. They also assist the public with citizenship applications and in researching whether or not children of naturalized U.S. citizens have derived citizenship from their parents. Some of our volunteers assist our legal staff by engaging in legal research and writing letters on other legal issues. Volunteer interns are also assigned various other jobs in our Youth Programs.

Hours are flexible. Email your cover letter and resume or any questions to immjournal@aol.com Tel: 718-243-9431

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Know Your Rights with ICE If approached by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents, you have rights!

What can I do if ICE is at my door?

•

You do not have to immediately open the door for ICE and you do not have to speak to ICE.

•

From behind the closed door, you may ask them who they are and to show their badge, ID or business card through the window or peephole or to pass it under the closed door.

•

You can ask if they have a judicial warrant:

If they say No, you do not have to let them in.

You may say, “I do not want to speak with you.”

If they say Yes, you can ask them to slide it under the door. To know if it is a judicial warrant, look to see who signed the warrant.

A judicial warrant is a warrant from a court, signed by a judge. For example, judge signatures may have “Honorable/Hon.” “Judge” “Justice” or “Magistrate” in front of them.

•

In an emergency, such as a threat to public safety or a threat to someone’s life, ICE can come in without asking your permission. If this happens, you still do not have to speak to ICE.

•

If ICE is looking for someone, you do not need to speak. If you choose to speak, you can ask ICE to leave contact information. While you do not need to tell ICE where the person is located, providing false information puts you at risk.

What can I do if ICE is inside my home?

•

If ICE enters your home without your permission, you can tell them clearly: “I do not consent to you being in my home. Please leave.” Saying this may not always stop them, but it may help any future legal case.

•

If ICE starts to search rooms or items in your home, you can tell them, “I do not consent to your search.” You can continue to repeat this if they continue to search without consent.

•

You can tell them if there are children or other vulnerable residents in your home.

What can I do if ICE stops me on the street or in public?

•

Before you say anything, you can ask, “Am I free to go?”

If they say Yes: you can say,

“I don’t want to answer your questions”

If they say No: you can say,

“I want to remain silent.”

If ICE agents try to search your pockets or belongings, you can say, “I do not consent to a search.”

If they search you anyway, you cannot physically stop them, but clearly saying it may be important in any future legal case.

This fact sheet gives only general information.

It is not legal advice. Consult an attorney for legal advice.

Call 855-768-8845 for anEnglish Immigration Consultation

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CIVIL RIGHTS

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New York for All Act Gains Momentum

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ew York, New York: On April 28, the New York for All Coalition, allies, and immigrant New Yorkers celebrated the passage of a City Council resolution in support of the New York for All Act. The New York for All Act, currently pending in the New York State Legislature, would prohibit local law enforcement and state agencies from conspiring with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

“New York families and communities deserve the safety and reassurance that their government will protect them, and not subject them to cruel abuses and terrorization from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP),” said Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, New York Immigration Coalition. “By passing this resolution, the New York City Council makes clear they stand with all immigrant New Yorkers both here in the city and across the state. We thank Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Council Member Shahana Hanif, and the New York City Council for passing Resolution 01122022 in support of the New York for All Act. Now, it’s time for the New York State Legislature to carry on this work and pass S.03076/A.02328, so that immigrant New Yorkers have the chance to live safe and free lives in their homes.”

Assemblymember Reyes Photo credit: Assembly District 87

"Immigrant New Yorkers cannot be made to live in fear of their personal safety or personal information being compromised and used to execute ICE's agenda of terrorizing immigrant communities, particularly Black and Brown communities," said Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams. "I've witnessed firsthand the dangers of the coordination between local law enforcement and federal immigration officials in an attempted deportation, and it is clear that strong statewide legislation is needed to give immigrant communities protection and peace of mind. While New York City has sanctuary city policies in place, the state must match and enhance these protections to be a true sanctuary state. Passing this resolution is a strong message of

"I thank Council Member Hanif and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams for recognizing that every New Yorker across this state deserves the right to pick their kids up from school, go to the doctor's office, or drive to work without facing ICE's terrorizing tactics. Now, we need my colleagues in Albany to hear the NYC Council's call and pass my bill, the New York for All Act." support for our city's immigrant communities and making New York a sanctuary state, and I thank Council Member Hanif and all of the advocates who have gotten us to this point and who I know will continue to push on a state level."

“Today, the New York City Council proudly says that ICE has no place in our City. With the passage of the New York For All resolution, we formally call on Albany to protect immigrants in our state from the dangerous clutches of ICE,” said Council Member Shahana Hanif.

“Too many of our undocumented neighbors who have ended up in police custody have disappeared into the labyrinth of ICE custody. We cannot send more people to languish in detention facilities for years on end. New York must cut off

every access point for ICE in our state to ensure immigrants can live a life of dignity, not detention.”

“In passing Resolution 112 in support of the New York for All Act, the New York City Council is recognizing the urgent need to protect immigrant New Yorkers. ICE is often needlessly separating and disrupting families in our communities. In the state legislature, we must respond to the calls of our colleagues and constituents across the state by passing the New York for All Act this year. Let’s take this action to ensure that ICE can’t weaponize local law enforcement, and to enable immigrant New Yorkers to engage with government services without fear,” said State Senator Julia Salazar.

“New York can no longer ask our immigrant neighbors and friends to face the constant threat of deportation and family separation," said Assemblymember Karines Reyes. "I thank Council Member Hanif and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams for recognizing that every New Yorker across this state deserves the right to pick their kids up from school, go to the doctor's office, or drive to work without facing ICE's terrorizing tactics. Now, we need my colleagues in Albany to hear the NYC Council's call and pass my bill, the New York for All Act." "If enacted, the New York for All Act would prioritize and enhance public safecontinued on page 6

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CIVIL RIGHTS

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New York for All Act/ continued from page 5 ty and propel honest relationships between immigrant communities and local government entities," said Eddie A. Taveras, Political Director, Immigration Campaigns at FWD.us. "Other states and localities have passed similar policies and found great success in ensuring immigrants have freedom of movement without fearing family separation. I commend the New York City Council for having the vision and seeing the critical need for this crucial piece of legislation that encourages immigrants to engage their communities and keeps families safe and together. Now, it's up to the New York Legislature and Governor Hochul to build the courage to ensure this legislation becomes law. With a stagnating immigrant population, the state’s sustainability depends on their security and contributions."

“The state legislature must pass the New York for All Act to establish longoverdue protections for immigrants, who are at risk of being separated from their loved ones and funneled toward deportation because of New York’s collusion with ICE. In 2022, it is indefensible that we continue to accept the entanglement of our state and local systems with ICE," said José Chapa, Senior Policy Associate of the Immigrant Defense Project.

"Without the New York for All Act, our immigrant communities will continue to

experience racial profiling, harassment and threats that result in irreversible harms. We fight for a New York where everyone can access local resources and engage with public officials without fear.

We call on the state legislature to pass Senate Bill 3076/Assembly Bill 2328 this year and would like to thank the New York City Council for taking a stand in passing Resolution 112 in support of the New York for All Act." "It is past time for New York to ensure that our state resources are not used to further Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)’s cruel agenda,” said Drea Herrera, Senior Organizer at the New York Civil Liberties Union.

“Washington continues to stall on mean-

ingful action to protect immigrants, so New York must take action to end collusion between our state agencies and the federal immigration authorities who seek to tear our families apart and instill fear in our communities. We must take a stand for all New Yorkers to live freely and thrive, regardless of immigration status. We thank the New York City Council for passing Resolution 0112-2022 in support of the New York for All Act, and call on the state legislature to follow by passing New York for All into law."

“Too many immigrant New Yorkers and their families live with the fear that simply going about their daily lives and interacting with the government — going to court, speaking to law enforcement,

attending school, or visiting a public hospital — could bring ICE agents to their door,” said Karla Ostolaza, Managing Director of the Immigration Practice at The Bronx Defenders. “The New York for All Act would give immigrant New Yorkers peace of mind that they can live their lives without fear that New York State will collaborate with the cruelty of the federal deportation machine. We applaud Public Advocate Williams and Council Member Hanif for their leadership in passing this resolution in support of New York for All and we now call on the State Legislature to pass and the Governor to sign the bill immediately.”

"Bold action is needed to address the systemic issues and structural racism pervasive throughout the immigration enforcement, detention, and deportation machinery. All New Yorkers deserve the opportunity to lead full, open lives without worrying that they will be suddenly torn away from their families and homes,” said Annie Chen, director of the Advancing Universal Representation Initiative at the Vera Institute of Justice.

“New York can take one crucial step toward a more safe and welcoming state for everyone and keep our communities together by passing and signing the New York for All Act this session. We commend the New York City Council for supporting this bill, and we are calling on our state leaders to ensure that New York has no part in enabling ICE’s cruelty.” l

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IN THE NEWS

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Campaign to Highlight IDNYC Expansion of Benefits Kicks Off

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EW YORK: New York City Mayor Eric Adams on May 2, kicked off a campaign to highlight new benefits, including access to cultural institutions and other recreational centers, for city residents with an IDNYC. A Day of Action took place on Wednesday, May 4th, where the New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) lead an interagency and multilingual citywide effort to encourage New Yorkers to enroll for an IDNYC or renew their current card.

DSS and MOIA will have multilingual staff and volunteers available to help New Yorkers at train stations and other points in the city.

“An IDNYC unlocks benefits many New Yorkers don’t even realize they have access to, and thanks to the expansion of services we’re announcing, New Yorkers will be able to do even more across New York City effective immediately,” said Mayor Adams. “All New Yorkers will utilize the benefits of this card, regardless of immigration status, that will allow them to enjoy the benefits of so many of the city’s many cultural institutions and

Commissioner Castro Photo credit: MOIA

recreational centers.”

“With over 1 million enrollees, IDNYC is an innovative and inclusive program that provides access to a wide variety of benefits and cultural resources across the city,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom.

“IDNYC provides a valuable service to New Yorkers, and I am happy to see the list of partners continue to grow, and excited for this push for usage of the IDNYC program.”

IDNYC — managed by DSS in close collaboration with MOIA — is the largest and most successful municipal ID program in the country, providing all New Yorkers with a broadly accepted government-issued photo identification, regardless of background or immigration status. New Yorkers with an IDNYC card expiring in less than 60 days, or whose card has been expired for less than six months, can now renew their IDNYC through an online portal or by appointment at an enrollment center.

IDNYC benefits all city residents, including undocumented immigrants, New Yorkers experiencing homelessness, the formerly incarcerated, and others who may have difficulty obtaining other government-issued photo IDs. New Yorkers may renew their cards up to 90 days before expiration, and up to one year after it expires. Due to reduced capacities at IDNYC enrollment centers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the

IDNYC program expanded the renewal period for all cardholders whose cards expired in 2020 — expanding the renewal period through December 31, 2022.

“We are delighted to launch our IDNYC renewal effort as we continue to honor and strengthen New York City’s inclusive legacy,” said DSS Commissioner Gary Jenkins. “The program has provided more than 1 million New Yorkers with proof of identification, which is vital for vulnerable New Yorkers looking to access the city resources and supports to which they are entitled. As I renew my IDNYC card today, I urge all New Yorkers to join me and enroll in this program as we build a more equitable, diverse, and accessible city for every New Yorker, regardless of background.”

“The IDNYC card has been instrumental in helping vulnerable communities get access to city resources and enjoy great benefits, like discounts on food and cultural attractions,” said MOIA Commissioner Manuel Castro. “MOIA is proud to continue to work with DSS on the IDNYC renewal effort to ensure communities continue to use their card as a passport across the city.”l

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FAMILY MATTERS

8

When Parents Turn Children Into Weapons, Everybody Loses

BY JENNIFER HARMAN THE CONVERSATION

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

omestic abuse can involve one parent using a child as a weapon against the other parent, which harms the child in immense ways. My research has identified how these dynamics play out and examines the damage.

There are approximately 5.7 million cases of domestic abuse in the U.S. each year, and in some of those, mothers and fathers use children to manipulate and harm the other parent. This behavior can include directly pressuring the child to spy on the abused parent or threatening the abused parent that they will never see the child again if they leave the relationship.

Another way a parent can use a child as a weapon involves turning the child against the other parent. In this case, the abuser makes the child believe the other parent never loved them, abandoned them or is dangerous and unsafe to be around. In this way, the abuser corrupts the child’s reality, even convincing the child that the abuser is the victim of abuse.

The outcome of this process is what psychologists like me call “parental alienation.” The child feels betrayed, hurt and very angry toward the alienated parent – much like a spurned lover, but

worse, because it involves a parent the child had a primary attachment to and who comprises half of their identity.

What happens next is a cascade of losses associated with great harm to children.

1. Loss of self-confidence When this happens, researchers in my field call this weaponizing a child. The child often loses trust in their own memories or experience with the abused parent because it’s at odds with what the abuser is leading them to believe. Many adults who were alienated from a parent as a child report feeling helpless and disconnected from their emotions and having problems trusting other people.

2. Loss of innocence The abusive parent can take away the

child’s innocence by exposing them to ideas and behaviors that are not ageappropriate, or are in fact not appropriate at all. The abuser may ask the child to make an adult-level decision, such as choosing whether to have a relationship with the other parent. Abusive parents also can often neglect the developmental needs of the child, such as encouraging independence, and sometimes make the child care for the needs of the parent.

3. Loss of parental connection When a child becomes alienated from a parent, they begin to reject half their identity because they are hurt and angry, and it is too painful to acknowledge that connection. The child also rejects the important parental bond the abused parcontinued on page 9

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FAMILY MATTERS

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Children Into Weapons/ continued from page 8 ent had provided. This loss of connection and sense of shared identity has substantial short- and long-term negative effects, such as unresolved grief and low selfesteem.

4. Loss of wider family links As the child becomes more distant from the abused parent, the child also can lose relationships with extended family and social networks. The child is deprived of the types of experiences and opportunities that these related individuals can provide, such as social support or professional opportunities possible through their social networks.

5. Loss of social connection Some abusers socially isolate their children – home-schooling them, limiting their friendships or even relocating or abducting them to another state or country. When that happens, the child can lose all their former social, educational, recreational and cultural connections. Unable to grieve the loss of the alienated parent openly because of the abusive alliance they have formed with the abusive parent, the children often suffer alone.

What’s to be done?

To friends and relatives, a situation in which children are weaponized can be confusing or even appear as the reverse

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of what is actually happening. Outsiders might not recognize the role of the abuser and think that the abused parent is in fact rejecting the child or is somehow otherwise at fault.

But those closely connected outsiders are the people best positioned to help the family break its cycle of violence and find ways to protect the child. When they blame the wrong parent for abuse, the child continues to suffer. Even mental health professionals don’t always evaluate the situation correctly and focus treatment on the child’s relationship with the abused parent – while ignoring the continued influence of the abuser.

The most recent national statistics available indicate that there are not significant differences in numbers of men and women who are victims of domestic violence each year, and I do not find in my research that there are gender differ-

ences in the proportion of parents who have their children weaponized against them by another parent.

Unless children are protected from being weaponized against a parent, there will continue to be many family relationships that remain broken.

Jennifer Harman is am Associate Professor of Applied Social and Health Psychology, Colorado State University Editor’s note: Legal Assistance If you are an immigrant experiencing domestic violence and depending on your spouse for immigration benefits, help is available through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) which is gender-neutral. To find out if you qualify, call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us to schedule an appointment today.l

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JOBS & RECESSION

10

Being a Paralegal Is a Great Career Choice! 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

Orientation is Monday, May 9

Join us via Zoom at 6pm

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AMERICAN DREAM

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Types of Mortgages & Home Buying FAQs

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uying a home is a big investment.

For most of us, it’s the biggest loan we’ll have in our lives. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau discusses the different types of loans, many of which are available through private lenders and partially guaranteed by different federal programs, thus offering benefits for people who qualify.

Talk with your real estate agent or lender to see which programs you may qualify for.

its offer down payment assistance programs, usually for first-time or low-income homebuyers. Cities may do it to help employees overcome a high cost of living and get them connected to the town. Some of these are grants; often they’re second loans that are forgiven over time or that you repay when you sell your house.

Conventional Loans Most homebuyers get this type of loan, which is available through standard lenders.

Typically, you put down 20 percent of the price of the home with this type of loan; buyers who put down a smaller amount (35 percent is common) often pay mortgage insurance. The government sets a maximum loan amount for these types of loans, which are also known as conforming loans.

gram regulates and insures loans from private lenders, which let potential buyers pay a 3.5 percent down payment and do not require as high a credit score as conventional loans. These typically come with a higher interest rate than a conventional loan but is more accessible to a buyer whose credit or cash flow is limited.

VA Home Loans The Veterans Affairs Administration has a program to help military veterans, soldiers and their families buy houses. You get these loans through a private lender, and the VA guarantees some percentage of it, which gives you, the borrower, better terms for the loan, often including a smaller down payment or no down payment at all and no mortgage insurance.

USDA Loans The Department of Agriculture offers loans to buyers who want to build or buy in rural areas. These are for low-to-moderate income purchasers; they do not require a down payment, and you pay a lower mortgage insurance rate.

Your lender can tell you the income requirements and what areas in your city qualify as rural.

FHA Loans The Federal Housing Administration’s pro-

Down Payment Assistance Some local governments and area nonprof-

Home Buying FAQs Home buying is confusing, with jargon, unexpected expenses and lots of decisions to make, sometimes with what feels like little information.

What Is Mortgage Insurance?

Mortgage insurance decreases the lender’s risk when making a loan with less than a 20 percent down payment. Private lenders usually get private mortgage insurance; rates vary according to down payment and credit score but is a percentage of your loan and paid monthly. Mortgage insurance also is required on FHA and USDA loans.

Remember, this protects the lender, not the buyer.

What Does a Title Company Do? According to Title Forward, the title company is the intermediary between buyer and seller, gathering and recording all the legal documents, ensuring the property title is free of liens or easements, holding your escrow money, filing the deed with the county and getting all the paperwork signed from both buyer and seller.

What Goes into Closing Costs?

Those fees, which run about 3 to 5 percent of the total cost of the house, include fees for your assessor and your lender’s appraiser; the title service fees, which pay for the title search, the premium for your lender’s title insurance policy, wire transfers and other costs of the title company; fees you pay to your lending institution for the processing of the loan; prepayment of some insurance, property tax and mortgage insurance; homeowners association fees; credit report fees; and some other processing fees.

Usually the buyer pays these fees at the time of closing; you can negotiate for the seller to pay, but expect the cost of the home to increase.

What is the Difference Between Interest Rate and APR? Your lender will provide you two numbers when you secure your loan: interest rate and annual percentage rate, or APR. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau says the interest rate is the cost you pay annually to borrow the money. The APR accounts for points, mortgage broker fees and other fees you are charged for the loan. Points let the

borrower make a tradeoff between upfront costs and monthly payments. You may pay more upfront but receive a lower interest rate.

Ready to become a homeowner? Call us 888-670-6791.l

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HOW TO GET A GREEN CARD

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Do Not Come/ continued from page 1 block migrants from claiming asylum.

The Committee on Homeland Security and Alejandro Mayorkas On Wednesday, April 27, 2022, the House Appropriations Committee on Homeland Security fiscal Budget grilled the Homeland Security Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, over the department's security issues and level of preparedness. The committee displayed dissatisfaction with the department's level of readiness in preventing the avalanche of migrants that will try to enter the U.S. at the end of Title 42.

In defense, Mayorkas explained Homeland Security's plan. "Our department has been executing a comprehensive strategy to secure our borders and rebuild our immigration system. With the Title 42 public health order lifted, we expect migration levels to increase," says Mayorkas.

Over 17,000 migrants per day are expected at the Southern Border when Title 42 ends. The DHS Secretary explained that such a number would strain the system despite preparing for various scenarios. He maintained to the committee, "What we do is prepare and plan. We've been doing so for months.

Our responsibility is to be prepared for different scenarios, and that is what we are doing."

migrant U.S. asylum seekers' tent camp on the Plaza de la Libertad near the border.Editorial credit: Vic Hinterlang / Shutterstock.com

Asked about the view of Democratic lawmakers' argument about the department's unpreparedness for a migrant surge at the border. Mayorkas said, "I disrespectfully disagree." He stressed that preparations were underway and cited a 20-page memorandum released last week describing the plans in detail.

Consequently, the agency has a plan that covers vaccination, increasing the number of Customs and Border Protection agents and other federal personnel at the border. Coupled with enforcing 'expedited removal' proceedings that speedily deport unqualified asylum seekers/ migrants and expand the capacity of nationwide holding centers using temporary facilities.

Status of Title 42 at the Courts Yet, asylum-seekers advocates support Biden's administration and CDC to end the rule. They believe the government violates the right to seek protection under U.S. law and international treaties and endangering people seeking protection

from persecution in their home country.

While the states filing the lawsuit insists that the U.S. is not ready for the influx of migrants expected in summer because of the effect on public services. It is possible for a court could order the government to reverse course and maintain Title 42 on May 23 due to ongoing lawsuits by Republican-led states.

Ukrainians, Title 42 and The Mexico Border He also emphasized the need for Ukrainians seeking to enter the United States not to enter the U.S. through the Mexico border. "That is not the way to do it," he said. He explained that the U.S is streamlining refugee applications for Ukrainians and others fleeing the Russian invasion, making it easier for refugees to come to the United States from Europe. The informal route through northern Mexico is not one of them.

The New Rule: 'Do Not Come' In a recent press briefing on May 1, the

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary echoed the same calls for migrants "not to come" to the southern border of the U.S. He reiterated the impact of such a movement on the system: "That's going to put a strain on our system." He shared the plan, which involves a regional approach to address the challenge while calling on countries on the southern border to manage their borders.

During the interview with Dana Bash on CNN's 'State of the Union,' Mayorkas explained, "What happens now is individuals are either expelled under the Title 42 authority or placed in immigration enforcement proceedings. And they are removed if they do not have a valid claim under our law to remain. And so, the border is not open."

He emphasized his message of "Do not come" in response to Bash's question about anyone considering coming to the United States. A message that aligns with what Vice President, Kamala Harris, said last year to intending migrants in Guatemala: "Do not come. Do not come."

Concerning his opinion on ending Title 42, Mayorkas explained that in his capacity as DHS secretary, he has no view on decisions relating to Title 42. "I do not because I am not a public health expert. But it is my responsibility to plan and execute while it is in place and when it isn't," he said.l

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HOW TO GET A GREEN CARD Change Course on Green Cards/ continued from page 1 based visas for the following year.

However, unused visas in the employment-based categories are generally lost and can only be recovered through an act of Congress.

Because of the Trump administration’s COVID-19 immigrant visa ban and the closing of U.S. embassies and consulates abroad in the spring of 2020, about 122,000 family-based visas for FY 2020 went unused. Those visa numbers were added to the FY 2021 cap on employment-based visas, raising the total number available last year to a little over 262,000. This record number raised the hopes of many workers who have been stuck in the visa backlog for years.

But it is now clear that most of those additional visas went unused and are now lost, possibly forever.

The Biden administration’s failure to issue hundreds of thousands of available visas last year will make the massive backlogs and wait times which plague the U.S. immigration system worse.

Immigrants from any one country cannot exceed 7% of the total number of immigrants who come to the United States in a single fiscal year. This arbitrary cap imposes unrealistically low limits on immigration from countries that have extensive social and economic ties to the United States. This is especially true in the case of family-based immigra-

tion from Mexico and employmentbased immigration from India and China.

As a result, there is a backlog of hundreds of thousands of eligible cases filed on behalf of Mexican nationals by U.S. family members. There is also a backlog of cases filed on behalf of Indian nationals by U.S. employers. Immigrants stuck in either of these backlogs face a wait time of many years—sometimes decades—for a permanent visa to become available.

For instance, as of April 2022, the federal government began issuing familybased immigrant visas for the Mexican brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens in cases filed in January 2000 or earlier.

Similarly, the government was issuing employment-based immigrant visas for skilled workers from India in cases that were filed in January 2012 or earlier.

The extra 122,000 visa numbers added to last year’s cap on employment-based immigration could have been used to reduce the backlog of employment-based immigrant visa applications.

Unfortunately, this opportunity was wasted as more than 66,000 employment-based visa numbers went unused.

The Biden administration must act now to prevent the same thing from happening again this year. The 141,430 familybased visa numbers that went unused last year have been added to this year’s cap on employment-based visas—raising the total number of employment-based visas

13

available to 281,430 in FY 2022. This once again provides the Biden administration with an opportunity to cut through some of the backlog by using all the employment-based immigrant visa numbers that are available this year.

In addition, the administration must do everything possible to utilize all the 480,000 family-based immigrant visa numbers that are available this year.

Otherwise, the backlog of family-based immigrant visa applications will continue to grow.

A key issue is the massive backlog of cases in which immigrant visa petitions have been approved by the Department of Homeland Security, but where beneficiaries are being forced by the State

Department to wait for an interview at a consular post abroad. According to the State Department, as of April 2022, there were 421,358 noncitizens with approved petitions who were waiting to be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. consulate in their home country.

The Biden administration must mobilize the resources needed to fully restore access to legal channels of immigration.

If the administration does not change course now, more permanent immigrant visas are likely to go unused this year and the visa backlogs will continue to grow. Congress can also help to rectify this problem by stepping in to recapture the immigrant visas that have gone unused over the past two years. l

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UPDATES Senate Passes Senator Sanders’ “Foreclosure Abuse Prevention Act" Legislation

Senator Sanders Editorial credit: a katz / Shutterstock.com

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n May 3, the Senate by a vote of 52-10 passed the “Foreclosure Abuse Prevention Act"(S.5473D/SANDERS Same as A.7737B/Weinstein), a bill introduced by Senator James Sanders Jr. to ensure fairness in home foreclosure proceedings.

On March 23rd of this year, the Assembly version of this bill introduced

by Assemblymember Helene Weinstein passed the Assembly by a vote of 10740. The next step is for the bill to be delivered to Governor Hochul for her signature.

Senator James Sanders Jr. said, "Today, homeowners who are in foreclosure are the biggest winners with the passage of this significant foreclosure bill. This bill will go a long way in helping homeowners save their homes from foreclosure by leveling the playing field by eliminating certain abuses lenders have used in Courts to the detriment of the homeowners.”

This bill provides needed clarification to correct recent judicial decisions.

These decisions have undermined longstanding legal precedents to excuse financial institutions from the effects of longstanding statutes of limitations principles. Mortgage delinquency rates have spiked in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bill narrowly addresses discrete statute of limitations issues in foreclosure cases. It also effectively overrules harmful aspects of the recent Engel and Ramirez decisions.

Senator Julia Salazar said, “This bill is deeply meaningful to many homeowners in our Brooklyn district who have been fighting to keep their homes, and in communities that have seen especially high rates of foreclosure filings. Given the alarming number of homeowners who are unable to keep up with mortgage payments or facing foreclosure, it’s important to protect fairness in foreclosure proceedings and minimize uncertainty for homeowners. By passing this bill today we are ensuring that financial institutions are not able to evade long-standing statutes of limitations to take advantage of struggling homeowners." l

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USCIS Increases Automatic Extension Period of Work Permits for Certain Applicants

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ASHINGTON: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a Temporary Final Rule (TFR) that increases the automatic extension period for employment authorization and Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), available to certain EAD renewal applicants, to up to 540 days. The increase, which will be effective immediately on May 4, 2022, will help avoid gaps in employment for noncitizens with pending EAD renewal applications and stabilize the continuity of operations for U.S. employers.

“As USCIS works to address pending EAD caseloads, the agency has determined that the current 180-day automatic extension for employment authorization is currently insufficient,” said USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou. “This temporary rule will provide those noncitizens otherwise eligible for the automatic extension an opportunity to maintain employment and provide critical support for their families, while avoiding further disruption for U.S. employers.”

For several years, USCIS has been in a precarious financial situation that has impaired the efficient completion of caseloads. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges in 2020, in addition to a hiring freeze and furlough threat leading to workforce attrition and severely reduced capacity. In 2021, before USCIS could recover from these fiscal and operational impacts, there was a sudden and dramatic increase in EAD initial and renewal filings, as explained in detail in the TFR. The TFR, which only applies to those EAD categories currently eligible for an automatic up to 180-day extension, will

temporarily provide up to 360 days of additional automatic extension time (for a total of up to 540 days) to eligible applicants with a timely-filed Form I-765 renewal application pending during the 18-month period after publication of the TFR while USCIS continues to work through pending caseloads that were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This timeframe will allow USCIS an opportunity to address staffing shortages, implement additional efficiencies, and meet Director Jaddou’s recently announced goal of achieving a threemonth cycle time for EAD applications (generally comparable to a median threemonth processing time) by the end of FY23. Beginning Oct. 27, 2023, automatic extensions of employment authorization and EAD validity will revert to the up to 180-day period for those eligible applicants who timely file Form I765 renewal applications.

Who does the extension apply to?

Noncitizens with a pending EAD renewal application whose 180-day automatic extension has lapsed and whose EAD has expired will be granted an additional period of employment authorization and EAD validity, beginning on May 4, 2022 and lasting up to 540 days from the expiration date of their EAD, such that they

may resume employment if they are still within the up to 540-day automatic extension period and are otherwise eligible. Noncitizens with a pending renewal application still covered under the 180day automatic extension will be granted an additional up to 360-day extension, for a total of up to 540 days past the expiration of the current EAD. Noncitizens with a pending renewal application and valid EAD on May 4, 2022, or who timely file an EAD renewal application before Oct. 27, 2023, will be granted an automatic extension of up to 540 days if their EAD expires before the renewal application is processed.

The automatic extension generally will end upon notification of a final decision on the renewal application or the end of the up to 540-day period (meaning, up to 540 days after the expiration date on the applicant’s facially expired EAD), whichever comes earlier.

Certain noncitizens who are in the United States may file a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with USCIS to request employment authorization and an EAD. Other noncitizens whose immigration status authorizes them to work in the United States without restrictions may also use Form I-765 to apply for an EAD that shows such authorization. l

Mayorkas: “Domestic Violent Extremism” Poses “Greatest Threat” to National Security

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ashington, DC: In one of three hearings this week where DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas was called to testify before House Committees, Sec. Mayorkas yesterday stated, “Domestic violent extremism poses the greatest terrorism related threat to our homeland.” Deadly instances of violence in recent years perpetrated by white nationalists in locations such as El Paso Walmart and the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh show that the DHS assessment is not an abstract threat.

In the face of this reality, the Republican Party – from its leading anti-immigrant zealots to its supposedly establishment wing and leadership – is embracing an ugly and raw nativism and helping mainstream the very same conspiracy theories that began on the white nationalist fringes

and showed up in the manifestos the gunmen touted in El Paso and Pittsburgh.

According to Zachary Mueller, America’s Voice Political Director: At a time when America’s homeland security and law enforcement agencies declare that domestic white supremacists pose the greatest terrorist threat to American security, the GOP has chosen to amplify the same white nationalist conspiracy theories that have inspired domestic terrorists. They have chosen to divide, distract and betray American security through a dangerous preoccupation with generating fear around immigrants and refugees. White nationalist conspiracies, like the ‘replacement theory’ and ‘invasion’ rhetoric, have been mainstreamed throughout the Republican Party right up to their congressional leadership. Instead

of a party chastened after Charlottesville or January 6th, let alone El Paso and Pittsburgh, they are escalating the volume and mainstreaming of white nationalist conspiracies as we are witnessing this week. During a week that DHS offered a reminder that white nationalist domestic terrorism is our biggest threat, the GOP is fueling ugly grievance conspiracies peddled to stoke fear.

In their continued full-throated attacks and lies about migrants and asylum seekers, the GOP has again shown they refuse to work with Democrats to tackle domestic extremism or real modernization of the immigration system they purport to want to fix. It’s all politics and ugly rhetoric to feed their base a steady diet of fear and hate. And it has real consequences.l

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BIDEN ADMINISTRATION

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Biden Administration Creates New Parole Program for Ukrainians

BY REBEKAH WOLF

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he Biden administration announced a special parole program for Ukrainians that began April 25. The Uniting for Ukraine program is a first step toward the administration’s commitment to welcoming up to 100,000 Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion of the country, which began in February. The program is a streamlined process for Ukrainian citizens to request permission to travel to the United States and apply for Humanitarian Parole once at a port of entry.

Uniting for Ukraine allows individuals and organizations in the United States to apply on behalf of a Ukrainian citizen and their immediate family to come to the United States. Once at a port of entry, the Ukrainian citizens can apply for Humanitarian Parole, which will usually be granted for two years. This parole also makes them eligible for work permits.

For a Ukrainian citizen to be eligible, they must have been a resident of Ukraine as of February 11, 2021. They also must have a sponsor in the United States and meet background checks and

Siret Border, Romania - March 02, 2022: Ukrainian refugees. Editorial credit: Gabriel Preda RO / Shutterstock.com

medical clearance requirements (including having a COVID-19 vaccination).

To apply for this program, a Ukrainian citizen’s U.S. sponsor—either an individual or organization—must file an I134 Declaration of Support. This form, which is most often used with other applications, can be submitted online for this program. After that application is submitted, the sponsored individual will be vetted and go through background checks. If approved, the individual receives permission to fly to a U.S. airport where they will then apply for Humanitarian Parole. The notice in the

Federal Register makes it clear that the approval for travel does not guarantee the person will receive Humanitarian Parole. However, it seems unlikely the government would deny someone who has been pre-vetted and approved to travel to a port of entry.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began, thousands of people fleeing the violence have made their way through Mexico to seek protection at our southern border. The Biden administration has responded by exempting Ukrainians from its Title 42 expulsions policy, and more than 12,000 Ukrainians have been processed and admitted to the U.S. to date. With this program in place, Ukrainians attempting to enter the United States at the southern border will now be turned away. Instead, officials must direct them to apply through this program. It is unclear how Ukrainians who are already at the southern border will be treated.

This policy has been compared to the treatment of Afghan nationals, who were evacuated from Afghanistan to the United States or third countries as part of the Operation Allies Welcome.

Afghans—in contrast to Ukrainians— have been required to apply for Humanitarian Parole with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services through the regular process of filing an I131. This has led to significant delays, where Afghans are waiting long periods of time without parole and therefore without the ability to apply for work permits.

Of course, the special treatment of both Ukrainian and Afghan citizens lies in sharp contrast to individuals from other countries—particularly Central and South America and Africa—who have been fleeing violence as well only to be turned away at our borders.

The United States has the capacity to welcome people fleeing violence on humanitarian grounds, and the Uniting for Ukraine program is a clear example of a policy that the federal government can implement when the will exists to help specific groups of people in need of our protection. We should not be biased in determining who is deserving – we can and must do more for people fleeing danger and persecution around the world. l

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GENERATIONS

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10 Steps for Healthy Aging During National Older Americans Month in May

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s part of National Older Americans Month this May, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is providing 10 steps for healthy aging.

“Each May during National Older Americans Month, we celebrate older adults and honor them for their contributions. Promoting healthy aging helps ensure older adults remain a vibrant, integral community members for many years to come,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President & CEO. “Lifestyle choices such as eating a nutritious diet, getting proper sleep, and regularly exercising your body and brain, are all steps individuals can take to promote brain health and wellness and potentially reduce their risk of developing a dementia-related illness.”

AFA offers the following 10 steps for healthy aging: Eat Well: Adopt a low-fat diet high on fruits and veggies, like strawberries, blueberries, and broccoli. Take daily vitamins.

Limit intake of red meats, fried and processed foods, salt, and sugar. In general, foods that are “heart healthy” are also “brain healthy.”

Stay Connected: Social interaction and maintaining an active social life are very important for brain health, cognitive stimulation and mood. Invite friends and family over for a meal, board games, or just to hang out. Engaging in your community and participating in group activities is also beneficial.

Stay Active: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and can also help improve mood and overall wellbeing.

Brisk walking benefits brain health, while aerobics can boost your heart rate, and weight training builds strength and flexibility.

Learn New Things: Challenge your brain by starting a new hobby like playing tennis, learning to speak a foreign language, trying a cooking class, or something you have not done before. Even something as simple as brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand stimulates the brain by forcing it to think outside of its normal routine.

Get Enough Sleep: Getting a consistent sleep every night is key; at least seven to

nine hours is ideal. Having a good sleep environment is also helpful. Insomnia or sleep apnea can have serious physical effects and negatively affect memory and thinking.

Mind Your Meds: Medication can affect everyone differently, especially as you age. When getting a new medication or something you have not taken in a while (whether over the counter or prescription), talk to your doctor or local pharmacist.

Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking can increase the risk of other serious illnesses, while too much alcohol can impair judgment and cause accidents, including falls, broken bones, and car crashes.

Know Your Blood Pressure: Blood pressure can impact your cognitive functioning. Visit your physician regularly to check your blood pressure and make sure it is in normal range.

See Your Doctor: Maintain checkups.

Health screenings are key to managing chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity, all of which can impact brain health. Speak with your physician about any concerns or questions you have about your health.

Get a Memory Screening: Our brains need regular checkups, just as other parts of our bodies do. Memory screenings are quick, noninvasive exams for our brains.

AFA offers free virtual memory screenings, call AFA at 866-232-8484.l

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GENERATIONS

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When It's Time to Leave Home

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he decision about whether your parents should move is often tricky and emotional. Each family will have its own reasons for wanting (or not wanting) to take such a step.

One family may decide a move is right because the parents can no longer manage the home. For another family, the need for hands-on care in a long-term care facility motivates a change.

In the case of long-distance caregivers, the notion of moving can seem like a solution to the problem of not being close enough to help. For some caregivers, moving a sick or aging parent to their own home or community can be a viable alternative. Some families decide to have an adult child move back to the parent’s home to become the primary caregiver.

Keep in mind that leaving a home, community, and familiar medical care can be very disruptive and difficult for the older parent, especially if they are not enthusiastic about the change. You might first want to explore what services are available in your parents’ community to help them in their home—including home health care, housekeeping, personal care, and transportation services.

Older adults and their families have some options when it comes to deciding where to live, but these choices can be limited by factors such as illness, ability

to perform activities of daily living (for example, eating, bathing, using the toilet, dressing, walking, and moving from bed to chair), financial resources, and personal preferences.

Making a decision that is best for your parent—and making that decision with your parent—can be difficult. Try to learn as much as you can about possible housing options.

Older adults, or those with serious illness, can choose to: •Stay in their own home or move to a smaller one •Move to an assisted-living facility •Move to a long-term care facility •Move in with a family member Some families find a conference call is a good way to talk together about the pros and cons of each option. The goal of this call is to come up with a plan that works for everyone, especially your parent. If the decision involves a move for

your mom or dad, you could, even from a distance, offer to arrange tours of some places for their consideration.

Experts advise families to think carefully before moving an aging adult into an adult child’s home. There are a lot of questions to consider, for example: •Is there space in your home?

•Is someone around to help the older person during the whole day?

•What are your parents able to do for themselves?

•What personal care are you willing and able to provide—moving your parent from a chair to a bed or toilet, changing adult diapers, or using a feeding tube, for example?

•What kinds of home care services are available in your community?

•What kind of specialized medical care is available nearby?l —National Institute on Aging

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MONEY MATTERS

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Representatives Clarke, Espaillat, Chu call on DHS to Expand Immigrant Access to Public Benefits

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ASHINGTON, D.C.: On April 26, Representatives Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), and Judy Chu (CA-27) led 40+ of their colleagues in a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to provide a public comment to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility.

DHS recently issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to replace the Trumpera 2019 Public Charge Rule—which expanded the list of public benefits that immigrants were prohibited from using—with a rule that would not penalize non-citizens for accessing the public benefits that are available to them.

“First, we want to express our support for the Department's effort to repair the damage caused by the harmful Trump Administration’s public charge rule, which disproportionately harmed communities of color,” the members wrote.

“We strongly agree that ‘the 2019 public charge rule was not consistent with our

nation’s values’ […] And while we applaud the Biden Administration’s prompt efforts to end this Trump-era policy, our communities are still experiencing the consequences of the Trump Administration’s actions.”

The members advocate for the inclusion of further provisions to ensure immigrant’s continued access to public benefits—through the clarification of exemptions and definitions to eliminate any confusion that may deter noncitizens from applying for benefits.

“Data reveals that there is little awareness of this policy reversal among individuals in immigrant and mixed-status families,” the members added. “We urge DHS to provide funding to trusted community organizations that can conduct outreach and education to immigrants and their families in a culturally and linguistically appropriate manner.”

This clarification—along with public outreach—would stop hundreds of families from abstaining from the critical support they may need, such as housing or nutrition assistance. Unfortunately, the

Rep Clarke Photo credit: Congresswoman Clarke’s Office

pandemic illustrated the impact of this public charge rule clearly, when hundreds of Latinx and AAPI families did not apply for potentially life-saving assistance due to fears that it would negatively impact their immigration status or their family members.

In addition to Reps. Clarke, Espaillat, and Chu, this letter was also signed by Representatives Alexandria OcasioCortez (NY-14), Juan Vargas (CA-15),

James P. McGovern (MA-02), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38), Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), Rashida Tlaib (MI13), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-03), Jimmy Gomez (CA34), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Barbara Lee (CA-13), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Nikema Williams (GA-05), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Dina Titus (NV-01), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Albio Sires (NJ-08), Grace F. Napolitano (CA-32), Tony Cárdenas (CA-29), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Ayanna Presley (MA-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Alan Lowenthal (CA-47), Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY16), Bobby L. Rush (IL-01), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Jesús G. "Chuy" García (IL04), and Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18).l

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

19

Break Up? Breaking Up is Hard to Do can be as simple as ‘I don’t want to feel lousy anymore.’ We experience loss in different ways depending on the length and depth of the relationship, and there is truly no break-up too small to necessitate discussion with a professional. Having said that, here are some signs that might indicate it is time to contact a therapist:

BY ESTES THERAPY

A

re you going through a breakup?

The end of a relationship signals a period of change, and it can often be accompanied by pain or confusion. Loneliness, heartache, and guilt are all emotions you may experience following a breakup.

Breakups are never easy no matter how many you have been through, and no two breakups are the same. The end of a relationship can leave you reeling, wondering what you could have done differently, whether you are flawed, and feeling hopeless about what the future may hold.

These are all completely normal emotions and they do not need to be permanent. Break-up counseling can help you identify the root of your hurt and move you toward a place of acceptance and healing.

Why is this so devastating?

A breakup is signaled by the termination of a commitment that two people had to one another. This can be everything from casual Tinder dating to sharing a home, pets, and children together.

Disentangling your life from your partner’s can cause stress, anxiety, and depression. This is due to not only the emotional turmoil but also the effort

required to separate possessions and/or work out custody agreements. The act of breaking up can feel like a shattering of the illusion you had about your life and the future you had dreamt of for yourself.

It is completely natural to experience grief in the wake of your breakup, and you do not have to go through it alone.

What Happened?

This is a question you might ask yourself immediately following the end of your relationship. A breakup may occur for several reasons, each bringing its own level of confusion and trauma. In certain cases, one person may decide they want to end the relationship seemingly out of the blue, leaving their partner with feel-

ings of abandonment and even betrayal.

In other cases, both partners might agree that the relationship just isn’t working and collectively decide to move on. No matter how the break-up occurs, each scenario brings with it a level of heartache and upset that can feel debilitating. Working with a therapist can bring clarity to the ‘why’ behind the break-up and set you on the path towards healing and closure.

How do I know if I need therapy for a break-up?

There is no one metric to determine whether or not you need therapy following a breakup. Break-ups can happen for many reasons, and your need for therapy

Withdrawing from friends and family While it is natural to want to grieve in solitude, your friends and family can provide a network of support that is critical for starting your healing journey. If you are finding that your depression is so severe that you are unable to reach out to your loved ones, it may be time to get in contact with a professional.

You are unable to function normally If you are having prolonged difficulty with eating, sleeping, and/or getting to work, you may want to evaluate how your coping is impacting your health.

Ending a relationship, especially one that has spanned years, can spark stress, anxiety, and depression. Working with a therapist will help ensure that you incorporate healthy coping mechanisms into your life and keep you from falling in a mental downward spiral. continued on page 20

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

20

Breakup?/ continued from page 19

good partner for another person if you are not showing up for yourself.

You obsessively fixate on the relationship A late-night phone call to your ex is bound to happen. If this becomes a habit however, or you find yourself incessantly sending text messages or DMs with little to no reply, you may want to evaluate why the relationship holds so much significance for you. It’s natural to hyperromanticize a person we were close to, especially after we’ve been rejected by them. A therapist can help you get to the deeper root of your attachment to the relationship. This will not only help you to move on from your ex, but also to approach your next relationship with more understanding.

How can break-up counseling help?

When you have poured so much of your personal time and emotion into one person, and have spent months or even years tending to what felt like a special relationship, it can feel devastating to watch it dissolve before your eyes. The aftermath of the breakup may stir up a lot of feelings: is there something wrong with me? What do I do now? Will I ever find another partner? What does my life even look like without this person? What will I tell my friends and family? Feelings of shame, loss, inadequacy, and confusion are all normal. The good news is that discussing your breakup with a professional can bring clarity – and closure – to your

situation. Here are some topics you might discuss with a therapist to inspire selfreflection and begin moving into the next phase of healing: Am I to blame for the failure of my relationship?

It is important to remember that two people make up a partnership and so one person can never shoulder 100% of the blame. This can be easy to forget especially when the break up was one-sided or came as a complete surprise. A therapist will help guide you in evaluating the separate pieces of you and your ex’s backgrounds that collectively led to your breakup. This can bring a great sense of relief knowing that you were not solely responsible for the end of your relationship.

How do I handle conflict?

When you are feeling hurt or abandoned, it can feel easy to blame, criticize, with-

draw into yourself, or go on the defensive. Discussing your conflict style with a therapist may provide insight into how you can improve the way you approach disagreements and how you react in a given situation, paving the way for a healthier and more successful relationship in the future.

Is my difficulty with moving on linked to something that happened in my past?

While all break ups are difficult, some just really seem to linger more than others. Perhaps you’ve tried all the classic post break up tricks, but now it’s been months and you are still feeling completely floored from the loss. A therapist will help identify how past relationships might be influencing your current emotions and identify patterns that may have led you to the current place you are in.

Acknowledging past traumas can help to build resilience in yourself and your partnerships. You cannot show up and be a

Why did this happen?

A therapist acts as a neutral party to the breakup. You don’t need to be trapped in your own circular thoughts around why the breakup happened. Using a therapist as a sounding board is a great way to express why you’re feeling hurt or cast off. Your therapist comes to the conversation from a place of impartiality, and in doing so has a more level-headed perspective of the relationship. This can help to separate your emotions from actions and bring clarity as to why things went down the way they did.

Hope can be on the horizon, even if you can’t see it right now. Break up counseling is here to help you move past the painful emotions that come along with the end of a relationship.

Whether you end a casual fling, a dating relationship, engagement, or a marriage — break ups are hard. If you are feeling lost, alone, or having a tough time dealing with all of the change that is taking place at once, it might be overwhelming.

You are not alone. Going to counseling for a breakup helps you get back on your own two feet and work through the emotions of helplessness, confusion, or even betrayal. l Jennine Estes leads the Estes Therapy team. Reprinted with the kind permission of www.estestherapy.com

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HEALTH

21

Study Shows Long COVID Affects Women More Than Men

BY RALPH ELLIS, WEBMD HEALTH NEWS

T

he effects of long COVID can last a long time, especially for women, a new study says.

Only 25.5% of the study participants who’d been hospitalized with long COVID reported a full recovery five months after discharge and only 28.9% reported a full recovery a year after discharge, according to the study published in the The Lancet: Respiratory Medicine.

Women were 33% less likely than men to make a full recovery, according to the study. Also being less likely to recover were obese people and those who’d been on mechanical ventilation.

Researchers in the United Kingdom examined 2,320 people who were diagnosed with COVID-19 and discharged from hospitals between March 7, 2020, and April 18, 2021. Researchers checked back with study participants five months and one year after discharge, though the number of participating patients dropped after five months.

Persistent symptoms at one year included fatigue, aching muscles, physically slowing down, poor sleep, breathlessness, joint pain or swelling, slowing

down in thinking, pain, short-term memory loss, and limb weakness.

Researchers say they don’t know the reason for the long-lasting symptoms. A hypothesis is that hyperinflammation in acute COVID leads to “a persistent inflammatory state” following COVID19.

“Our study highlights an urgent need for health-care services to support this large and rapidly increasing patient population in whom a substantial burden of symptoms exists, including reduced exer-

cise capacity and large decrements in health-related quality of life 1 year after hospital discharge. Without effective treatments, long COVID could become a highly prevalent new long-term condition,” said study co-leader Christopher Brightling of the University of Leicester.

A different study, published in late March in the Journal of Women’s Health, found that women with long COVID were more likely than men to report symptoms both during the acute phase of the disease and five months afterwards.

Researchers examined 89 female and 134 male patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Women were more likely than men to experience symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, fatigue, chest pain, and palpitations, the study said.

“We demonstrated that (females) were more symptomatic than (males) not only in the acute phase but also at follow-up.

Sex was found to be an important determinant of Long-COVID-19 syndrome because it is a significant predictor of persistent symptoms in (females) such as dyspnea, fatigue, chest pain, and palpitations. Our results suggest the need for long-term follow-up of these patients from a sex perspective to implement early preventive and personalized therapeutic strategies,” the study concluded."l Sources: The Lancet Respiratory Medicine.

“Clinical characteristics with inflammation profiling of long COVID and association with 1-year recovery following hospitalisation in the UK: a prospective observational study” Journal of Women’s Health. “SexRelated Differences in Long-COVID-19 Syndrome”

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WELCOME TO AMERICA

22

The Anti-Immigrants Don the Cloak of Trumpism, Again

BY MARIBEL HASTINGS AND DAVID TORRES, AMERICA’S VOICE

I

n the United States, Trumpism salivates over the prospect of achieving, in the short term, control of Congress, and with its eyes on the White House, in the medium term. This way, nativism and intolerance continue to gain ground in this country. The ever more constant campaign messages of those who return to the tired old rants against migrant minorities invoke a hint of racism, multiplied by five, which once again shakes the foundations of democracy.

This is not only occurring here, but in other democracies across the world, as the presidential election in France showed this past Sunday.

Emmanuel Macron, importantly, won reelection, but the extremist Marine Le Pen obtained more than 40% of the vote, similar to the 42% of the U.S. population that continued to support Donald Trump in 2020. In fact, Le Pen increased her support among French voters compared to 2017, when she was backed by 34% of the electorate.

Trump. Editorial credit: Evan El-Amin / Shutterstock.com

The international reaccommodation of the extreme right, based on surreptitious political messages of supposed national “salvation” is of course, unsurprising.

What is alarming and, at the same time, angering, is that even today, in this 21st century, when the world is supposedly on a path toward greater equality in all ambits—starting with human rights and liberties—there are large segments of the population that are inclined to take the world and its history backwards.

Like Macron, Biden won the 2020 election, yes, but the monsters of racism, prejudice, and xenophobia continue, alive and kicking. For example, Trump’s

recent public appearances before his followers prove it, like what happened last weekend in Ohio. There, the ex-President pulled the rabbit out of a hat, like he always does, to revive the fanatics that surround him, saying that during his presidency his Mexican counterpart, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, “bowed” to his imposition of the “Remain in Mexico” program. Accustomed to lying at every opportunity, Trump used highly prejudiced language to deliver a level of humiliation, not exactly to the Mexican leader, but to the thousands of migrants from different corners of the world who are seeking asylum and who Trump

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stopped in their tracks, establishing the most draconian migration policies in contemporary U.S. history.

This week, we continue to see the media circus unfold with a delegation of ten Republicans traveling to the border between Mexico and Texas. The Republican Minority Leader, Kevin McCarthy, came to the border to give us his daily dose of demagoguery and lies.

They went to defend the maintenance of Title 42, as if a public health law could substitute for the comprehensive reform of our migration laws that his party has systematically blocked for decades; because it is a fact that Republicans do not want real solutions, but to exploit the issue and immigrants to rack up political points with the base that sustains them.

In fact, the resurgence of anti-immigrant sentiment—which was never really sleeping, but has been crouched in wait for an opportunity that those who maintain latent Trumpism present—can be felt once again all over the country.

Trumpism: that political anomaly that still has the Republican Party hamstrung, in a country that is beginning to come out of the prolonged lethargy that the pandemic and its consequences represent.

And that is another similarity with the French extreme right, personified by Le Pen: immigrants are their favorite scapegoats. They know how to exploit disaffection of groups of workers facing job losses in industrial and manufacturing sectors, as in the United States. With this picture of inequality, it’s easy to find someone to blame, and the Immigrant is always their favorite piece in their convincing and cynical game of political chess.

Le Pen is a cheerleader for Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orban, three characters whose image right now, at least in the West, is not exactly a model to follow. And she won almost 42% of the French vote! This is another sign that the fragility of democracy, and especially the loss of values in favor of the most elemental human rights—the rights to migrate and seek asylum—is not exclusive to the United States.

Unfortunately, this disgusting recipe of nativism and racism that the Republican Party has perfected, wearing Trump’s uniform, will be put to the test yet again in the November midterm elections, where immigration is positioned, once again, as the Republicans’ favorite issue to use against Democrats, accusing them of being in favor of “open borders” and “chaos.”l The mission of America’s Voice (AV) is to build the public support and the political will needed to enact policy changes that secure freedom and opportunity for immigrants in America.

Read more stories at www.theimmigrantsjournal.com

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