The Immigrant's Journal - Vol. 200 by IQ INC.

The Immigrant’s Journal Vol. 200

A Journey for a Better Life & Justice

FREE

Protecting God’s Children From Distant Lands 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY 11242

www.theimmigrantsjournal.com Tel: 718-243-9431

Nov 30-Dec 13, 2023

Email: immjournal @aol.com

Editorial credit: Consolidated News Photos / Shutterstock.com

Enough of Using Immigrants in Political Games BY MARIBEL HASTINGS AND DAVID TORRES, AMERICA’S VOICE

Employment-Based Immigration to Get an Important Update with Biden’s Artificial Intelligence Executive Order ....8

Unfortunately, if these reports materialize, we will continue without breaking the vicious circle in immigration.

Workers’ Compensation: Things the Employees Need to Know ....5

Yes, It’s Legal to Seek Immigration Asylum in the United States

Transforming Faith into Action: Bishop Dr RC Nelson's Visionary Impact in Brooklyn ....2 Editorial credit: Rivera Campaign

ow that a group of Republican and Democratic senators are weighing up undermining asylum laws, as planned by Donald Trump, in exchange for Republican support for funds requested by President Joe Biden for Ukraine, it is once again apparent that for many politicians, immigrants are the weakest link they can throw away when the going gets tough. It is a kind of recurrent political fear, on the one hand, and a worn-out formula of "negotiation" with the rival, on the other, continued on page 4

What you need to know about how immigration asylum does—and doesn’t—work. BY ERICA BRYANT ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, VERA

aul fled his home in Nigeria because Igbo Christians like him were being killed for their faith. “I did not want to die, so I came to America,” he said. But like many people seeking safety and freedom in the United States, Paul instead found himself locked up in immigration detention. He spent 21 months behind bars in upstate New York, right as the COVID-19 pandemic was spreading in correctional facilities.

“I did not want to die, so I came to America,” he said.

“We all felt sick the first night,” he said. “We slept in compartments with four bunk beds. Sometimes we were jammed together, all crowded. When coronavirus came, I was terrified . . . . We knew that if just one person catches it, it’s over. It turned out 49 were infected, probably more.” With the help of a publicly funded attorney, Paul was able to win release from immigration detention and apply for asylum. Others are not so lucky, either languishing in detention for years or deported back to the dangerous situations they fled.

Shelter Eviction Policy “Harms Children,” Councilmember Rivera States at DOE Hearing ....12

continued on page 10

How to Deal with Your Difficult Mother-in-Law ....17

Five Tips to Improve Your Financial Security ...14

IN THE COMMUNITY

Transforming Faith into Action: Bishop Nelson's Visionary Impact in Brooklyn BY JR HOLGUIN EXCLUSIVE TO THE JOURNAL

ROOKLYN, NY: In an exclusive interview with The Immigrant's Journal, Bishop R. C. Dr. Hugh Nelson of the Ebenezer Urban Ministry Center (EUMC), formerly known as the Church of God of East Flatbush, shared insights into his journey in ministry and the transformative role his faith-based organization plays in the Brooklyn community. Born in Jamaica and raised in England, Nelson, the son of pastors, initially pursued psychology before returning to his ministry roots. "I felt that was a call God placed upon my life," he reflected, emphasizing his deep-rooted connection to his faith. Under his leadership, the Church, which began 53 years ago by 13 Jamaican immigrants, has evolved into a holistic urban ministry center, addressing the broader needs of the Brooklyn community. "What was needed was not just a congregation, but an urban ministry center," Nelson explained.

A Vision for Community Enhancement Two decades after Nelson assumed his pastoral role, his unique vision culminated in the official opening of EUMC, celebrated on September 16, 2023. Nelson's vision led to a transformative shift from a traditional congregation to an urban ministry center, focusing on community service and meeting Brooklyn's housing needs. Under Nelson's leadership, the Church embarked on a journey that involved acquiring two city blocks, an investment that has now borne fruit in the form of a 43,000-square-foot ministry space. The project, valued at $364 million, includes 530 affordable apartments, a modern sanctuary, and community service facilities. Already, 315 apartments are occupied, with an additional 220 set to be completed by spring 2024. This development came to life following the Church's purchase of Ebenezer Plaza in 2011 for $8.1 million, later seeing its value rise to $12.5 million after successful rezoning. The project, a collaboration with Brisa Builders, Evergreen City, and Procida Development Group, reflects the

Ebenezer Urban Ministry Center leads in community service, affordable housing, and educational initiatives

Ribbon-cutting and dedication. Photo courtesy: Bishop Dr RC Nelson.

Church's commitment to spiritual enrichment and urban revitalization. "We wanted to make sure that local Brooklynites and local New Yorkers have an opportunity to stay in their community," Bishop Nelson stated, emphasizing the center's dedication to affordable housing. EUMC is a beacon of hope in Brooklyn, symbolizing a new comprehensive community service and support era. Empowering Through Education and Services The Ebenezer Urban Ministry Center has diverse programs targeting various community needs. These include specialized ministries for men and women, youth and children programs, and a strong focus on family stability. The Church also engages in local and international missions, extending its reach to Ethiopia, Kenya, and the Caribbean. Looking ahead to 2024, the bishop emphasized the importance of education and community services. The Hope Center Development Corporation, an organization birthed from the Church, plays a pivotal role in this mission. It provides over 80,000 meals annually, offers GED classes, crisis counseling, and assistance with SNAP registration, among other services. "The whole idea of making disciples to impact the world," he said, "means that the world has now become a global village." Addressing the Migrant Crisis In response to New York's ongoing migrant crisis, EUMC is collaborating with the mayor's office to provide shelter

and services to migrants, showcasing its commitment to being part of the solution to complex social issues. "We're committed to being a part of the solution and not just complaining about the problem," Nelson stated. Per city reports, over fifty percent of New York City's shelter population comprises migrants, and the total shelter population has increased twice since Adams assumed office in January 2022. New York City accommodates migrants in various locations, including hotels, previously empty office buildings, school gymnasiums, and emergency shelters on Randall's Island. An Invitation for Worship and Reflection The bishop extends an open invitation to worship at EUMC, 660 Powell Street, Brooklyn, NY. Services are currently held on Sundays and via Zoom on Wednesdays, with plans to reintroduce Sunday evening services post-COVID. As the holiday season unfolds, Nelson encourages a spirit of gratitude and recognition of blessings. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and thanking those who contribute to our lives, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. "Count your blessings. Recognize how blessed you are, and never become too busy to show thanks," he advised. In a city like New York, where challenges abound, EUMC is a testament to the power of faith and community in creating meaningful change and offering hope to those in need. l

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TIME FOR ACTION

Labor Shortage Can Be Fixed by Letting Asylum Seekers Get Work Permits Sooner, Business Leaders Say BY ADRIEL OROZCO IMMIGRATIONIMPACT.COM

Arleigh Louison is Dead. The Pain and Devastation of His Immigration Fraud Lives On.

Publisher I.Q. INC. Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip Senior Writer Linda Nwoke Contributing Writers JR Holguin Janet Howard Chris Tobias Mary Campbell

hen asylum seekers come to the United States, they want to work—but an outdated immigration statute is making that more difficult than it needs to be. After filing an asylum application, asylum seekers must wait an agonizing six months before they can receive a work permit. This makes their already vulnerable position even worse and prevents them from providing for themselves or their family. In an effort to bring attention to this problem, the American Immigration Council released a letter on November 16 with more than 100 chambers of commerce, businesses, and trade associations across the country calling on Congress to reduce the time asylum seekers must wait for a work permit from 180 to 30 days. The business leaders point out that this action will help address the chronic labor shortage across the United States. Signatories include national groups like the American Hotel and Lodging Association and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, as well as state and local chambers of commerce, many of whom attended the seventh annual this past October. Currently, a 1996 statute requires that asylum applicants wait at least 180 days before receiving a work permit. This statute was enacted at a time when the legacy Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the agency predating the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), had an internal goal of processing asylum applications within 150 days. Fast forward 27 years and asylum application processing can take nearly a

TEAM

Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Kendrick Williams Email immjournal@aol.com New York NY: A restaurant in Gramercy Park in New York advertises for staff.Editorial credit: rblfmr / Shutterstock.com

decade. This is the result of various factors, including diverting asylum processing resources to the border while failing to invest in USCIS’ growing humanitarian workload. Right now, more than a million asylum applications await adjudication with USCIS. However, business leaders see this as an opportunity as the U.S. is experiencing a persistent labor shortage. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest estimates indicate that there are 9.6 million job openings while only 6.5 million workers are looking for a job. This means that, even if everyone who wants a job got one, over 3 million positions would go unfilled. Experts predict that this gap is longterm given that the baby boomer generation is entering retirement, birthrates remain low, immigration policy continues to be hyper-politicized, and labor participation rates remain below pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile, an able and willing workforce—newly arrived asylum seekers— are prevented by law from meeting the demands of the American economy. For months, mayors and governors have called on the Biden administration to allow migrants to go to work faster as

The late “Untouchable” Arleigh Louison. Photo: Facebook

state and local governments spend millions on food, shelter, and other services. The Biden administration has taken positive steps, such as promising to process some work permits in 30 days, extending the validity periods for certain work permits from two to five years, and expanding access to work authorization by designating Temporary Protected Status for nationals of some countries impacted by armed conflict and natural disasters. Despite these administrative efforts, only Congress can change the mandatory waiting period for asylum applicants and provide more funding to address the work permit backlog at USCIS. There are several standalone proposals pending in the Senate and the House of Representatives that address these issues. All of them would decrease the mandatory waiting period to 30 days for at least some asylum applicants, which would currently benefit as many as 220,000 asylum seekers. As Congress continues to struggle to find common ground, the recently published letter shows that businesses are seeking solutions now. And while communities struggle to find workers, a solution lies in plain sight—let asylum seekers get to work faster.l If you were a client of Louison, it is imperative that you consult with an AILA attorney and do not meet with ICE alone. You should also seek the advice of more than one counsel. Get a case evaluation. ASK THE LAWYER – call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us to schedule an appointment.

Visit www.ijlef.org 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

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AMERICAN DREAM

Political Games/ continued from page 1 in which the immigration issue is clearly not essential for them, but when it comes to shoring up a pro-immigrant image that serves to generate sympathy among vulnerable groups in society. Because even if, in the end, reason prevails and the press reports do not materialize, the mere fact that a group of Democrats collaborate with Republicans to promote measures that they criticized when Trump implemented them does not contribute to improving that image among a sector of the Hispanic electorate that has been frustrated for decades by the handling of this issue and by many unfulfilled promises. Without going any further, an example of this is the tension that has been generated among migrants who have been waiting for years for a solution to their immigration status after recent asylum seekers have been privileged with work permits and other opportunities. It was obvious that something like this was going to happen, knowing that the lives of millions already in the country have been gambled with, contributing in many ways to the economic strength of the United States. Also, their lives were at risk during the worst pandemic the country and the world have ever suffered. It would sadly relive what has happened in previous Democratic administrations, Bill Clinton's and Barack Obama's, to name two, where immigrants paid dearly for decisions to

appease Republicans in exchange for nothing. In Clinton's case, even authorized residents got shafted. But we don't want to get sidetracked. Some of the proposals on the budget negotiating table are part of Trump's nefarious and long list of immigration initiatives, including tightening the credible fear requirement, making it more challenging to apply for and obtain asylum. Establish the Safe Third Country rule; limit the use of humanitarian permits or parole, especially for Latin American countries, which has been widely used by Biden. Reimplement Quédate en México. And require that the construction of the border wall be resumed. If you notice, these are Republican proposals, and the Democrats do not seem to

have pushed for any benefits for the already established undocumented. The press reported that even for Dreamers, there would be no relief. And that chapter is ironic since the 800,000 or so Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients have been a kind of pilot test of the political ups and downs of the nation that this group recognizes as their only home but have always been adrift, negotiation after negotiation, without the legal recognition they already deserve. In any case, they have been kept in the permanent anxiety of being expelled from the home they have built with dreams, work, study, and hopes. Another of the many ironies of this situation is that these are policies that Trump promoted, which proved to be a disaster by worsening the pressure on the

border without adding damage at the humanitarian level. Nevertheless, as the electoral winds blow, the Democrats are making the same mistake as always: giving in to Republican pressure at the expense of immigrants and getting nothing for that essential segment of the population. Because in this case, yes, they will fund Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion, but for the immigrants, there is nothing. Doing the Republicans' dirty work will not bring the Democrats either the support of those Republicans or Republican voters. It will only prove once again that, under pressure, immigrants are "disposable" for them. This time, they need to put the humanitarian aspect that urgently cries out for a solution first, for these are millions of human lives that have done nothing but choose a better way of life like millions of others in the past. Will they remember the motto we have symbolically tattooed on our foreheads in their negotiations: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be free"? Unfortunately, if these reports materialize, we will continue without breaking the vicious circle in immigration.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. Priority goal: win reforms that put 11 million undocumented Americans on a path to full citizenship.

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WORKERS’ RIGHTS

Workers’ Compensation: Things the Employees Need to Know BY LEON KELLY

here are potential hazards associated with working in high-risk occupations (construction labor, heavy machinery operations, electrical powerline installation, etc.) that demand constant physical exertion and/or exposure to chemicals. In such occupations, workers often suffer injuries, have accidents, or become ill from diseases due to overexposure to harmful chemicals. Accidents, injuries, and diseases from job-related tasks will likely require the employer to compensate the employee for lost wages and medical expenses. To be eligible for workers’ compensation, the employee must seek immediate and appropriate medical attention, notify the employer of the injury, accident, or occupational disease, and file a timely claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board. All employees who suffer work-related injuries must get the appropriate medical assistance immediately following their injuries or accidents. All areas affected by the injury must be documented and

explained in detail. The Worker’s Compensation Board has medical providers whom it has authorized to provide care to the injured parties. The employer must provide its employees with such a list. Using any party not on the list may result in the employees having to pay their medical expenses incurred at the time of treatment. Employees are exempt from having to use a Board-approved medical provider only in emergencies. Notifying the employer of the injury is a must. According to the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board’s web-

site, injured employees must notify their “supervisor about the injury and the way in which it occurred, as soon as possible.” This is an important step, as failing to do so could again result in the workers having to pay their medical expenses and losing “the right to workers’ compensation benefits.” Employees filing workers’ compensation claims must file their claims promptly on Form Employee Claim (C-3) by mailing the form to the appropriate Board District Office.” “This must be done within two years of the accident, or within two years after the employee

knew or should have known, that the injury was related to employment.” Seeking immediate medical attention from authorized medical providers, notifying the employer of the injury, and filing a timely claim are required if employees want to be successful in their claims for workers compensation. The extent of all injuries should be documented by the person providing medical attention. It is up to the employees to state all injuries upfront. The guidelines must be followed for employees to collect workers compensation benefits from the employer.l Leon Kelly is a student in the Chamber Coalition Paralegal Certificate Program. For details about this program, please visit www.freeparalegal.org If you need advice relating to this particular workers’ compensation issue or any other legal matter, please call 855768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us to schedule a free case evaluation. Remember, the lawyer you hire, does make a difference!

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JOBS & RECESSION

Aspiring Paralegals Enjoy an Excellent Employment Outlook BY FREEPARALEGAL.ORG

ome individuals considering various career possibilities are troubled when they hear about technological advancements eliminating jobs because of automation and artificial intelligence. Many occupations are not easily automated, though. Attorneys, for example, hire support staffers to manage a broad range of duties. This allows the lawyers to focus on more complicated tasks. They hire paralegals as well as clerical staff. A person can start a paralegal career by completing the educational requirements. People who are interested in the law and legal work may find this job an ideal fit. Employment Outlook Law firms employ most paralegals. Others find work with large corporations and government agencies, such as with a district attorney’s office or the Social Security Administration. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects rapid growth in the occupation until at least 2031. Organizations wanting to reduce costs are hiring fewer legal clerical workers. They fill the gaps

with paralegals, who can manage some of the secretarial tasks while also performing higher-level duties. In addition, many openings occur because of men and women leaving the occupation. Many people in the workforce are reaching retirement age or choosing to retire early. Some paralegals decide to pursue further education and become lawyers. Job Duties Paralegals can legally do most of the work of licensed lawyers. There are only a few duties that these employees are not allowed to do by law. They cannot sign legal documents, accept cases, or counsel and represent clients. However, they can interview clients and witnesses, draft pleadings and other documents and conduct legal research. They help attorneys with case planning and management and assist during trials. Paralegals employed in an office that has minimized its clerical staffing perform some administrative work as well. The same is true for those employed with small law firms and solo practitioners. They may need to do word processing,

spreadsheet data entry, scanning and photocopying documents, and billing clients. Qualifications The most common route to becoming a paralegal is completing a two-year associate degree in this field. These opportunities are provided at technical schools, community colleges, and four-year universities that offer associate degrees. The Chamber Coalition offers an affordable online Paralegal Certificate Program. The Program is highly regarded and has existed for over ten years. Additional certificates include Lexis-Nexis and CLIO. Students have access to CALI, which is in law schools. Included are CALI, CLIO, and a Paralegal Certificate from Lexis Nexis. Visit www.freeparalegal.org Specialties Aspiring paralegals may decide to specialize in a certain area of the law. They might want to work for a family law firm or divorce attorney, for instance. Individuals can choose many other specialties as well, such as corporate, bankruptcy, personal injury, and immigration law.

Income The median pay for paralegals as of 2021 was about $27 per hour, according to the BLS. That translates to around $56,000 for those who work full-time, which is typically the case. Some receive salaries while others are paid an hourly wage. Candidates considering jobs where more than 40 hours weekly is routinely expected may prefer organizations that pay per hour unless the salary makes the average pay comparable. Concluding Thoughts Individuals who are interested in the law and the work of attorneys may find the career of paralegal to be an excellent choice. Completing an associate degree or another path to this occupation provides the knowledge and skills needed to become a qualified candidate. An excellent employment outlook means job security and a broad range of possibilities. There are free orientations every month. The next orientation is Monday, December 4 at 6pm via Zoom. Register at www.chambercoalition.orgl

Orientation is Monday, Jan 8, 2024

Join us via Zoom at 6pm

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BE EQUITY SMART

5 Things to Do This Fall to Get Ready For Winter Undo Outdoor Hoses Burst outdoor hose bibbs can be the source of serious interior water damage, and the most common cause is a hose left attached when the first freeze occurs. Eliminate that possibility by undoing your outdoor hoses early in the fall. If you still must water the lawn or your garden, it's easy enough to reattach the hose as needed. Also, remember to store coiled hoses in the garage or in a shed during the winter. They'll last longer!

BY EQUITY SMART REALTY INC

imple home and yard tips don't have to take a lot of time but can save a lot of headaches if that first winter storm catches you unaware. Here's a checklist to help you prepare: Assess Your Windows and Doors Take a walk around your interior, preferably on a windy day. Check for drafts and air leaks; replace weather-stripping, align door thresholds. and repair window frames and sills if they're damaged. If you have storm windows, make sure they're ready to install. Replace the screens in a storm door with glass panels. Also check your garage door to make sure that it operates properly. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, nearly half of a home's total energy use is for heating and cooling, so it makes good financial sense to assure that your systems are as efficient as possible for every season. Check Your Furnace and Fuel Before cold weather arrives, schedule or perform any necessary routine maintenance on your furnace or HVAC systems. Clean ducts, replace filters, calibrate the thermostat, and fill the fuel tanks as

required. This is also the time to clean the flue and check the chimney if you have a fireplace or woodburning stove. If your home doesn't have a carbon monoxide detector, consider installing one to assure your safety during the winter. Prune Trees and Shrubs Working outside can be a pleasant weekend task during the cooler autumn season. It's also the time to do some prep work on your landscaping so that your plants will be at their best for the next growing season. Depending on your location, and your commitment to your yard, now is also the time to prepare new garden beds and plant spring bulbs, or tackle projects like brick walls, planters and stone pathways.

Check Roof Shingles and Gutters Although it's not a bad idea to check your roof and clean gutters and downspouts at least quarterly, it's especially important before winter. Take note of cracked or curling shingles; check to make sure no daylight is visible from the attic, and make sure that all gutters and downspouts are clear of debris prior to snow and ice buildup. Owning a home requires ongoing maintenance to assure that it will truly be a haven during foul weather, but it doesn't have to be an unending task or cost a lot of money.

Call Equity Smart Realty at 888-670-6791. Get the best consultation!

Guidance Feel free to call us at 888-670-6791.l

Call 888-670-6791 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Downtown Brooklyn VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.THEIMMIGRANTSJOURNAL.COM FOR MORE IMMIGRATION NEWS & UPDATES

FAMILY MATTERS

You, Your Kids, & Mary Jane BY LEA BENNETTE

arijuana, Weed, Mary Jane, Cannabis, Hemp, Pot. The names and our sensibilities towards the industrious plant have changed throughout human history. Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that has been legalized in several countries. Its effects on human behavior have been studied extensively, but little is known about the impact of marijuana on the relationship between marijuana use, its effects on the brain and child development. One thing remains the same, marijuana use during childhood negatively affects cognitive development, mental health, and social behavior. In 2021, 35.4% of adults aged 18 to 25 (11.8 million) reported using marijuana in the past year. Marijuana is one of the most widely used psychoactive drugs in the world. Its use has been legalized in several countries for medicinal and recreational purposes. Cannabis is a hardy plant that proliferates in most of the natural climates of America. It has always had many applications in which the plant could be used. The Hemp fibrous threads bound together were predominantly used in clothing, textiles, rope, and paper; even its seeds were

used as food. Legal in the United States until 1937, when the first “sin tax” was enacted and formally in 1970, marijuana has had a tumultuous relationship with American ideologies. While California was the first state to medically decriminalize marijuana in 1996, allowing those with chronic pain access to its health benefits, NYC has recently decriminalized and legalized marijuana usage, creating unprecedented access to recreational substances we are no longer familiar with. The Cannabis plant as we know it today comes in two species: The Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica— Sativa-based cannabis focuses on waking you up. In contrast, Indica-based cannabis focuses on calming you down.” Short-term effects

can include euphoria or other mood changes, heightened sensory perception, and increased appetite. While the impact of marijuana on adult behavior has been well established, little is known about the effects of the drug on children. As a parent, learning the difference is essential to creating a safe and healthy environment for your children. The amount of Tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical responsible for the drug’s potency, more commonly known as “THC,” in marijuana has increased dramatically in recent decades. In the mid1990s, the average THC content of confiscated weed was roughly 4 percent. By 2014, it was about 12 percent, with a few strains of pot containing THC levels as high as 37 percent. The average THC lev-

els of “street” level marijuana range from 25%, which is not the same as Hemp from 1931. Marijuana use during childhood can affect social behavior. Children exposed to marijuana in the womb or during early childhood are likely to have behavioral problems, such as aggression, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Chronic marijuana use during adolescence can also lead to decreased social functioning, affecting relationships and academic performance. Studies have shown that children exposed to marijuana in the womb or during early childhood have lower cognitive scores and are more likely to have learning difficulties. In 2022, 30.7% of 12th graders reported using marijuana in the past year, and 6.3% reported using marijuana daily. In addition, many young people also use vaping devices to consume cannabis products. In 2022, nearly 20.6% of 12th graders reported vaping marijuana in the past year, with 2.1% reporting doing so daily. People who started smoking marijuana heavily in their teens and had an ongoing marijuana use disorder lost an average of 8 IQ points between ages 13 and 38. The lost mental abilities didn’t fully return in continued on page 9

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BIDEN ADMINISTRATION

Employment-Based Immigration to Get an Important Update with Biden’s Artificial Intelligence BY STEVEN HUBBARD & LESLIE DELLON AMERICAN IMMIGRATION COUNCIL STAFF

he White House’s recent executive order on artificial intelligence marks an important shift in employment-based immigration law, signaling the beginning of a potentially transformative process. As one component of the process, President Biden has required the Department of Labor (DOL) to issue a request for information (RFI) by December 13 to consider updates to the Schedule A list of occupations. The RFI is to request input in “identifying AI and other STEM-related occupations.” This is a major step that invites public and expert engagement to shed light on the nuances of updating the list—a provision that has remained unchanged since 1991. The modernization of the Schedule A list could be instrumental in addressing the urgent employment gaps the United States currently faces. Understanding Schedule A Schedule A is an important component of the employment-based immigration process in the United States. Established in the 1960s, it was designed to help the country attract foreign talent to fill labor shortages in various high-demand occupations and industries. When an occupation is listed on Schedule A, the Secretary of Labor has already established the need for workers, so certain time-consuming steps in the labor certification process are eliminated. An employer includes the labor certification application with its petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to sponsor the foreign worker. The existing Schedule A list in Group I comprises just two occupation groups— physical therapists and professional nurses. Schedule A also has a Group II for certain workers in the sciences or arts. However, the Schedule A list has not seen significant updates since 1991, rendering it outdated and disconnected from the current labor market realities. In today’s rapidly evolving job landscape and the added impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a pressing need to reevaluate and update this list. Updating the Schedule A List of Occupations To navigate these challenges effectively, DOL should adopt a data-driven approach to updating the Schedule A list rather than creating a static list of which occupations currently are experiencing shortages. This means leveraging comprehensive labor market analytics to ensure the list accurately reflects the

occupations where shortages are most acute. By analyzing trends in unemployment rates, employment growth, wage patterns, and job vacancy rates, the DOL can pinpoint sectors that are experiencing critical shortages and require intervention. Countries like the United Kingdom and New Zealand have successfully employed such strategies. These nations adjust their shortage occupation lists regularly, considering extensive labor market research and input from key stakeholders. This dynamic approach allows for a responsive immigration system that adapts to the changing economic landscape and skill demands. Modernization of Schedule A extends beyond the immediate benefits of filling job vacancies. It signifies a commitment to maintaining the United States’ status as a hub for innovation and progress. By attracting international talent in highdemand fields like STEM and healthcare, the U.S. can ensure that it has the skilled workforce necessary to drive forward advancements in these critical areas. A data-driven update to Schedule A could also inform broader economic strategies, including the development of targeted workforce training programs and industry-education partnerships. Such strategic planning could facilitate the upskilling of the domestic workforce to meet future demand, thus complementing the contributions of international talent. The White House’s AI executive order marks a pivotal moment in employmentbased immigration, with the potential to reshape the labor certification process. Updating Schedule A through data-driven updates aligns with current economic conditions and offers predictability and flexibility to the employment-based immigration system. This step can help the United States address critical workforce gaps, stimulate economic growth, and remain competitive on a global scale. It’s a win-win for both international talent and U.S. workers alike. However, unless Congress also modern-

izes the employment-based immigrant visa categories, with their annual limits creating lengthy wait times before many foreign workers can become U.S. lawful permanent residents, these workers may still seek opportunities in other countries.l

Mary Jane/ continued from page 8 those who quit marijuana as adults— those who started smoking marijuana didn’t show notable IQ decline. Chronic marijuana use during adolescence can also lead to decreased IQ scores and impaired executive function, affecting decision-making, planning, and problemsolving abilities. An “overdose” occurs when a person uses enough of the drug to produce lifethreatening symptoms or death. While many people experience a pleasant “high” feeling after using marijuana, others may experience anxiety, fear, or panic. Overdosage of Cannabis can give the effect of hallucinations, delusions, and in the worst case: psychosis. The risk is highest with regular use of high-potency marijuana. The impact of marijuana on child development is an area of growing concern. Marijuana use during childhood can negatively affect cognitive development, mental health, and social behavior. The long-term effects of marijuana on children are still not fully understood, and more research is needed to understand better the risks associated with marijuana use during childhood. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the potential risks associated with marijuana use and take steps to prevent their children from being exposed to it.l

Compensation for Victims & Families of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

If your loved one was neglected or abused in a Nursing Home or assisted living facility, financial compensation may be available.

Call 855-768-8845 for a consultation One in six residents in nursing homes and community facilties were neglected last year resulting in thousands of families experiencing trauma, mental illness, medical emergencies, and even death. Nursing home abuse and neglect is real. Has your loved one experienced any of these or other types of abuse? •Bedsores •Improper Treatment/Medication •Choking/Death •Malnutrition/Dehydration •Falls •Respiratory Illness •Fractured Bones •Sexual Abuse •Infections •Sexual Assault

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Legal to Seek Asylum continued from page 1 Seeking asylum is legal and the United States has accepted people fleeing danger for centuries. Despite this fact, many misconceptions persist about asylum seekers like Paul. Too often, asylum seekers are demonized, criminalized, imprisoned, and treated as political pawns in an immigration system that is not equipped, nor designed, to humanely handle its responsibilities. Here are some answers to common questions about asylum seekers and their rights. What is asylum? Asylum is a form of protection that allows people to remain in the United States and avoid deportation back to a country where they fear persecution or harm because of their identity, religion, or political beliefs. Under both U.S. and international law, people who face danger in their homelands have the right to go to other nations to seek safety and to have their requests for asylum considered. To apply for asylum In the United States, a person must be physically present either in the country or at a port of entry. They must also meet the definition of refugee shared by the United Nations Refugee Protocol and the U.S. Refugee Act of 1980.

Editorial credit: Ascannio / Shutterstock.com

HOW TO GET A GREEN CARD

Where are asylum seekers coming from? As of May 2023, the United Nations reported that more than 110 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, or human rights violations. Of these people, 5.4 million are seeking asylum. More than half of all refugees and others in need of international protection come from Afghanistan, Syria, and Ukraine. In 2021, 45 percent of refugees granted asylum in the United States were from China, El Salvador, Guatemala, Turkey, and Venezuela. What happens to people after they seek asylum? In the United States’ chaotic and dysfunctional immigration system, there is no clear answer. Some people, like Paul, are detained in jail-like settings for

10 months or years, despite decades of research that shows detaining people is not necessary to ensure they appear for immigration court proceedings. Others are sent to overwhelmed government shelters, and some wait in communities with their families as their requests for asylum are considered. This process takes an average of 4.25 years and can involve multiple government agencies. More than 1.3 million asylum applications were awaiting resolution as of May 2023. Do people in the United States support granting asylum to people seeking safety? Yes—multiple polls show that the majority of people in the United States support protections for people who flee persecution and torture in their homelands. According to one Pew Research Center poll, 72 percent believe that accepting civilians trying to escape war and violence in their homelands should be an important goal of U.S. immigration policy. Are asylum seekers bringing drugs with them across the southern border? People seeking asylum at the Mexican border are often accused of smuggling drugs like fentanyl into the country, but virtually no fentanyl is seized from migrants seeking asylum. From 2019 to

2021, after the government banned most travel across the southern border and made seeking asylum nearly impossible, annual deaths from fentanyl in the United States doubled. While illegal fentanyl does travel north into the United States from Mexico, the majority of fentanyl traffickers are U.S. citizens. In 2023, 93 percent of fentanyl seizures occurred at official border crossings or legal checkpoints, and nearly all involved people who are legally authorized to cross the border—more than half of whom were U.S. citizens. Undocumented people traveling on foot across the southern border represent only a tiny fraction of people trafficking opioids across the border. Fentanyl overdoses are a serious and increasing problem, but immigrants— including asylum seekers—are not to blame. How can the United States improve its broken asylum system? The asylum process is just one part of an immigration system that is outdated, complicated, and unjust; the entire system must be redesigned to meet the migration realities of the 21st century. Providing legal representation to asylum seekers is one way to protect their rights as they attempt to navigate the extremely complex path to legal resicontinued on page 13

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HOW TO GET A GREEN CARD

Visa Options for Chefs and Cooks to Immigrate to the U.S. BY JR HOLGUIN

here is a significant need for highquality international cooks in the United States, and the hospitality industry, which includes ethnic restaurants and other private companies, has a continual need for talented international chefs. For most, sponsorship of foreign cooks for work in the United States can require time and effort. Under U.S. immigration restrictions, skilled foreign chefs have limited alternatives for the help of any professional sector. Immigrants work in nearly one-third of the major occupations in the restaurant and food service industry, including roughly one-third of chefs and cooks, one-fifth of food service managers and food preparation workers, one-fifth of fast food and counter workers, and onesixth of cashiers and delivery workers. One reason it’s challenging to sponsor a foreign chef is because the U.S. Immigration Service compares gourmet cooking to working in fast food restaurants. Immigration permits are available to cover positions not rapidly filled by

U.S. workers. In theory, because many people in the United States can “cook,” the labor of practically any chef could theoretically be done by many available U.S. workers. The Department of Labor (DOL) publications distinguish between cook and chef positions. Chefs generally have more administrative duties than cooks, primarily responsible for food preparation. Despite the challenges, a few visas are available for cooks and chefs. E-2 permits may be awarded to chefs holding managerial or specialist roles so they can work for a qualifying E-2 firm. For instance, a large Caribbean restaurant chain like Bahama Breeze may use E-2 visas to hire various Caribbean chefs. A small E-2-qualified restaurant can also justify hiring a chef in a supervisory or specialized role. Chefs who open their restaurants are eligible for E-2 status as significant investors. USCIS did not grant H-1B visas to chefs in the past since they were not regarded as professionals or specialists. However, the record indicates that chefs working for upscale hotels and restau-

rants can be given H-1B visas. Instead of working in front of a stove, the foreign national typically must perform management-related tasks most of the time. It is frequently necessary to present expert testimony from an expert to demonstrate that the role is sufficiently demanding to necessitate a culinary arts degree. With H-2B visas, chefs may be eligible for temporary employment during a busy season. For instance, the job is with a ski resort for the wintertime. The employer will not be permitted to sponsor the foreign national for a permanent labor certification for that employment once it has established that the work is temporary or seasonal.

A J-1 visa is available for a young cook seeking exposure to how a restaurant operates in the U.S. for up to 18 months. Numerous organizations with J-1 programs are authorized explicitly for culinary arts training. Despite the need for immigrants from all trades in this country, policymakers make it challenging yearly. It is strategic for chefs and cooks who want to immigrate to the United States to hire an immigration lawyer to help with the complicated process. Know Someone Who Wants to Migrate to the US as a Chef? If so, Ask the Lawyer. The International Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates has a quarter of a century practicing immigration law. Brian Figeroux, Esq. is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and is widely regarded as NY’s #1 immigration attorney. Ready for the next step? Schedule an appointment at www.askthelawyer.us or call 855-768-8845. Immigration law is dynamic and complex. The lawyer you hire does make a difference! l

BY JR HOLGUIN

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IMMIGRANTS’ CONCERNS

BY GIULIA MCDONNELL NIETO DEL RIO DOCUMENTEDNY.COM

t a hearing on Wednesday, city council members pressed the Department of Education for answers on how migrant children will be affected by Mayor Eric Adams’ administration’s shelter policies. Elected officials focused in on the 60-day-notice shelter transfer policy and toll it has taken on the students. “We just know that policies like the 60day shelter stay limitation does create instability,” Councilmember Carlina Rivera, who represents the 2nd Council District which includes East Village, said. “Many of us are here because we’re here to challenge the mayor’s rules, because we think that it harms children ultimately.” In October, Mayor Eric Adams announced that the city will require migrant families with children to leave their current shelter within 60 days, once they receive notification from the city.

Editorial credit: Vic Hinterlang / Shutterstock.com

Shelter Eviction Policy “Harms Children,” NYC Councilmember States at DOE Hearing

The rule applies to migrants staying at respite centers and Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Centers. At the hearing, which was held by the Immigration Committee and the Education Committee, members of the city’s Department of Education (DOE) testified about how they are managing the administration’s policies, and more broadly spoke about adjustments they have made to respond to the high number of migrant children in schools.

Immigration Committee Chair Shahana Hanif relayed how some shelter transfers forced children from schools in her district to miss school “for weeks on end,” she said. In some instances, children attending schools in Park Slope were recently transferred to a shelter in Jamaica, Queens – a commute of at least a few hours, there and back. “When a child is forced to leave a shelter, their place in the school community is threatcontinued on page 13

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IMMIGRANTS’ CONCERNS

of the education committee also asked how the DOE was supporting families staying in facilities through the Hotel Vouchering Program, which requires migrants to move shelters after 28 days if they were placed in participating hotels. “It’s a challenge – I’m not going to say that it isn’t,” Aviles-Ramos said. The team immediately was increasing efforts to reach families in these hotels, officials said, and about 500 students are currently staying in these hotels, Puello-Perdomo added.l

Legal to Seek Asylum/ continued from page 10 dence in the United States. Currently, people facing deportation do not have a right to legal representation at government expense if they cannot afford an attorney. As a result, many people, who are legally eligible for asylum, are instead deported back to the dangerous circumstances they were trying to escape in the first place. The Fairness to Freedom Act, which would establish a right to federally funded attorneys for all people facing deportation, would help fix this injustice. States can also continue to build publicly funded deportation defense programs to ensure that people who come to this country seeking safety are treated fairly. Through one of these programs, Paul was connected to a New York Immigrant Family Unity Project lawyer who helped secure his release after 21 months in immigration detention and take steps toward receiving asylum. “There is nothing like freedom, even if you don’t have money,” he said. “It feels good to be free.” As more people come to the United States seeking safety, such legal assistance programs should expand to help immigrants and asylum seekers like Paul. All people seeking safety in the United States deserve respect and a fair chance to access the protections of asylum.l

Giulia McDonnell Nieto del Rio is a Report for America Corps Member who covers immigration for Documented, where she focuses on immigration courts and detention. Reprinted with kind permission.

Reprinted with kind permission. The Vera Institute of Justice was founded in 1961 to advocate for alternatives to money bail in New York City. Vera is now a national organization that partners with impacted communities and government leaders for change.

Shelter Eviction continued from page 12 ened,” she said. Hanif called the administration’s implementation of the 60-day rule “a new low.” According to Melissa Aviles-Ramos, the chief of staff to the Chancellor of New York City Public Schools, about 34,000 students in temporary housing are currently enrolled in the public school system, and approximately 14,000 of those students have enrolled since July, she said. “No matter the location of the shelter, our staff is working to identify schools with available seats that are closest to the shelters, prioritizing access to programs for multilingual learners,” Aviles-Ramos said. Under questioning from Hanif, AvilesRamos said that the Department of Education was “made aware” of the introduction of the 60-day rule for families, and began to work with City Hall and other partners to respond operationally. Flavia Puello-Perdomo, the chief of schools within the Office of Community Supports and Wellness at the DOE, said that as far as the agency knew, only families at the Row Hotel in Midtown had received the 60-day notices, which will begin to go into effect in December. While acknowledging the difficulty of the situation, Puello-Perdomo said the DOE has begun to look at what schools the students are enrolled in, and has contacted principals and superintendents to inform them that they will have families impacted by these shelter limits. “I think it’s the volume and the numbers of what we are experiencing that is very different

and unlike anything that we have done in the past,” she said. “So I think it’s really testing our infrastructures and really pushing us to lean on one another around the coordinations.” Other topics at the meeting included language access barriers, transportations to schools from far-away shelters like Floyd Bennett Field, and how to address absenteeism. At Floyd Bennett Field, a much-contested site that opened earlier this month housing migrant families in a semi-congregate setting, 195 children living there have been enrolled in NYC public schools since November 18, Puello-Perdomo said. There are about 363 shelters in total across the city and more staff will be hired for increased support at locations that need it. Councilmember Rita Joseph, the chair

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MONEY MATTERS

Five Tips to Improve Your Financial Security BY CHRIS TOBIAS

ven though you might know how to budget your monthly expenses and avoid debt, there's more to financial security than that. Right off the bat, you can start by establishing the difference between financial security and financial stability. Financial stability means that you can pay off your monthly expenses without any issue, on top of having spare income for savings and whatnot. Financial security goes a step further than that: you only have financial security if, on top of having financial stability, you're also prepared for potential emergencies as well as retirement. Naturally, you need more than a decent income to guarantee financial security, as there's no way to be sure you'll make that amount of money indefinitely. If you spend it all, you'll undoubtedly need to prepare to handle emergencies, making it difficult to devise a good retirement plan. This article will help you achieve financial security through five simple steps. Without further ado, let's get right into it.

Don't lose track of your personal finance management To achieve financial security, having control over your finances is essential. If you're out of the loop on this topic, personal finance management is a simplified version of a company's balance sheet applied to your personal life. It should include all of your monthly earnings and expenses, allowing you to know where you're spending your money and potentially change some of your spending habits. On top of that, this information will allow you to set clear, reasonable, longterm goals. This is important because

financial security can only be achieved with savings and investments. Control your spending Assuming your personal finance management is on point, it's important to keep it up. Financial security is achieved long-term, so you can't slack on your finances. Of course, that doesn't mean you have to be a cheapskate: your budgeting can -- and should -- have a percentage of your income dedicated to entertainment or leisure expenses. However, it's essential to avoid going above this stipulated value. Always ask yourself if you need something before going ahead with the purchase.

Avoid impulse buying On a surface level, this is similar to the previous topic. What makes it different, however, is the reasoning behind each purchase. Impulse buying is usually a purely emotional decision taken in the heat of the moment, mainly due to a strong desire to acquire something you usually would not if given enough time to think about. The tricky part of impulse buying, if you're prone to it, is that your desire to buy a product can be such that even if you were to ask yourself if you need it, your answer will end up being yes -- even though you will likely regret it later. The key to avoiding this practice is never purchasing anything without letting the idea simmer. Salespeople will likely try to convince you that you must acquire said product immediately because of some super rare, exclusive deal or because they'll run out of whatever you're interested in buying. Yet, that fear of missing out is hardly grounded in reality. For the most part, the product or service is not going anywhere, despite continued on page 15

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MONEY MATTERS

Financial Security/ continued from page 14

the illusion of scarcity that sellers or brands may try to sell to their customers; it's simply a sales strategy that works because plenty of people are prone to impulse buying. Establish your priorities As stated at the beginning of this article, financial security is achieved by being prepared for emergencies and retirement. With this in mind, specific priorities regarding your savings must be established. For one, it's important to have dedicated saving percentages for each category: don't just bundle it all up with your general savings and call it a day. This might enable you to utilize your retirement or emergency funds inappropriately. Instead, designate a set amount specifically for emergencies, ideally depositing it in a separate account, especially for this fund. It is crucial to have your emergency funds be as liquid as possible -- the last thing you'd want, given an emergency, is to be unable to use said funds in a timely fashion. Retirement money should also have a set amount dedicated to it, but contrary to emergency funds, they do not need high liquidity. Choose a long-term investment plan that suits your expectations and commit to it. It's worth noting that there is a hierar-

chy of importance for these things: You shouldn't put money away for retirement if you're failing to pay your bills, for example. Your priorities should be to have your basic finances in order, followed by a decent emergency fund, and then, if both are accounted for, an amount for retirement. You're not alone; ask for help or advice! If you plan on taking a big step in your financial life, don't be afraid to discuss it with people you trust. Maybe you have a friend or family member who's always been great with that sort of thing, or perhaps they have already gone through whatever is troubling you. You don't have to do precisely what they're telling you, but some perspective doesn't hurt, at least to see a potential outcome of what-

ever investment choices they might have made. It can save you trouble or even reassure you that your decisions are tried and true. These five tips should help you on your way to achieving financial security. Remember that it is a dynamic process: it's important to continually re-evaluate your finance management, as your earnings and spending might change, allowing different amounts to be allocated to your emergency and retirement funds, for instance. But those are mostly minor adjustments to prevent it from becoming outdated. Your goals, on the other hand, shouldn't change all that much, as longterm investments rely on long-term commitments. Commit to your investments, and you'll be prepared for emergencies and set yourself up for a comfortable future.l

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Stop Green Card Slavery Now! You Can Get a Green Card Through VAWA BY MARY CAMPBELL

n 2021, the United Nations published the report “Measuring the Shadow Pandemic: Violence Against Women During COVID-19.” It said that since the pandemic, violence against women has increased to unprecedented levels. The American Journal of Emergency Medicine said that domestic violence cases increased by 25 to 33 percent globally. The National Commission on COVID-19 and criminal justice shows an increase in the U.S. by over 8 percent. Domestic violence is widespread everywhere. 3 Signs You Are in an Emotionally Abusive Relationship Sometimes relationships end up being a source of pain. You may feel you're not getting the security and comfort of having a partner. Instead, your life may start to feel like it's a series of traumas. In such situations, you may often end up doubting yourself. You may feel confused about why your partner treats you so bad. At the same time, you may still hold on to the positive aspects, making it

hard for you to make a decision. If you're not sure if your relationship is abusive, here are three signs to look out for. These are by no means the only symptoms. But they signal a high-level of danger to your physical and emotional health. You're Not Allowed to Have an Opposing Opinion People will always disagree on certain things. Conflict is not a bad thing if it's an avenue to learn, grow, and exchange ideas. However, certain people can only accept their own points of view. If you keep getting dismissed or demeaned in arguments, you're being abused. It doesn't matter if your views are accurate or not. Nobody has the right to make you feel inferior. Sadly, certain people don't know how to deal with opposing opinions. This may cause them to lash out. They may also use your disagreements as a chance to take out their frustrations. You Can't Raise Issues About How You Feel Similar to the point above, you may end

up being attacked when you raise an issue. This may be a demand for something you want, such as more attention or affection. Or perhaps your partner has a double standard. For example, they may think it's OK for them to make you look bad in public. Yet, if you complain about it they'll accuse you of disgracing them. Such situations may make you feel worthless. You may feel confused about whether your perception is based on reality. This may weaken your confidence and damage your self-image. You Find Yourself Wanting to Hurt Your Partner In certain cases, you may end storing up feelings of anger and humiliation. When you can't take anymore, you may end up

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lashing out at your partner. This may increase conflict and you may end up getting hurt even more. The key here is to not allow your partners behavior to turn you into something you're not. Don't let their abuse be an excuse for acting against your own beliefs. Instead, assess your situation. Decide if you want to continue being in a situation that causes you to lose self-control. Dealing with emotional abuse is hard. At the same time, staying a victim will only make your life worse. If you feel abused, take action to change the situation. Most importantly, connect with yourself and learn to understand your own actions. Do things that make you feel loved and respected. That will make it harder for you to stay in situations that threaten your well-being. Be prepared for an uphill battle. But remember, you're fighting for your life. Immigrants and Domestic Violence Immigrants in the US. have the right to live life free of abuse. Due to the victim’s immigration status, abusive partners have additional ways to exert power and control over their victims. If you are an immigrant or refugee in an abusive relationship, you may face unique issues that make it hard to reach out for help. VAWA As a victim of domestic violence, there are laws that can allow you to gain legal status in the United States. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was created in 1994 by then Senator Joe Biden, to protect victims of domestic violence, and offers specific protections for people without legal status in the US. VAWA also protects men and children who are victims of domestic violence. As part of the perpetration of domestic violence, abusers often may refuse to assist you with applying for immigration status, may promise to apply for you, but never actually help, or threaten to contact immigration and report you. VAWA helps victims of domestic violence allowing them to self-petition for their own legal status without the abuser’s help or knowledge. Free Legal Consultations A specialized immigration attorney should always be your first point of contact when it comes to immigration questions and concerns. You can also listen to Ask the Lawyer Radio podcasts at www.youtube.com/@askthelawyernow The program provides great information and also an opportunity for a FREE, confidential, no obligation 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

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CONVERSATIONS

How to Deal with Your Difficult Mother-in-Law where you're coming from. Don't pressure him to take sides. Calmly explain the problem. This is the most effective and diplomatic way to deal with a difficult mother-in-law. She is more likely to listen to your husband, who can make her recognize her boundaries.

BY MARY CAMPBELL

other-in-law syndrome is a term used to describe the strained and complex relationship between a married individual and their partner's mother. A toxic mother-inlaw consistently creates negativity and tension within the family. This individual might be overly controlling, critical, and disrespectful, often interfering in their child's marriage or parenting decisions. They may not respect boundaries and expect everything to revolve around their desires. This toxic behavior can strain relationships, causing emotional stress and conflicts. Does your mother-in-law persistently meddle, offer unwanted advice, and disagree with you? Is she possessive of her son, and does she insinuate that you are to be treated as the "second woman" in her son's life? Signs of a toxic mother-in-law can range from excessive criticism to manipulative behaviors. However, it’s essential to differentiate between occasional disagreements and consistent toxic motherin-law signs. If all these sound familiar, then read on and find out how best you can deal with your difficult mother-inlaw.

Accept Your Situation The first step is to accept your situation. Whether you like it or not, your motherin-law comes with the package of marrying the love of your life. And it is improbable that she will change even if you plod on and wage a war against her. It will add more needless stress than her intrusive ways already give you. Be an Adult Even in the most trying situations, control your temper, be diplomatic, and treat her cordially. She may be playing games or unwittingly pitting her son against you. So, please don't fall for any of it.

Deal with her like an adult, even if her ways are irritatingly childish. Be firm and state your boundaries. For example, make it clear that she should call first before visiting. Besides, the friction between you may stem from differing personalities or her inability to let go of her son completely. So, during the occasional holiday gettogethers when you don't have any choice but to mingle with her, let heated moments pass without behaving rudely towards her. Talk to Your Husband Talk to your husband and make him see

Prioritize Your Health and Happiness Dealing with a toxic mother-in-law can be a daunting task, and many people can relate to the difficulties it brings. However, understanding and addressing these issues without specific solutions can be vital in finding healthier ways to cope with the situation. A toxic mother-in-law can be emotionally and mentally draining, so it's critical to prioritize self-care. Setting aside moments for yourself becomes necessary. Find comfort in 'me time,' where you indulge in activities that bring you joy and inner peace, whether reading a book, taking a leisurely walk, or pursuing a favorite pastime. Remember, if you want a long and successful marriage with your partner, having at least a civil, if not amicable, relationship with your mother-in-law is in your best interest.l

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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Safety Guidelines to Prevent Parking Lot Accidents enough attention, the risk is high of striking a car, or a person on foot or on a bicycle.

BY CHRIS TOBIAS

bout 20 percent of all reported vehicle collisions happen in parking lots, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. In addition, drivers sometimes hit pedestrians and bicyclists. Parking in ways that reduce safety for handicapped individuals is a common problem as well. Many of these incidents cause serious harm. Consequences Although it might seem that these would mostly be minor incidents, many people are seriously injured every year in parking lot accidents. The National Safety Council says about 50,000 parking lot collisions happen each year. That results in around 60,000 people being injured and hundreds of fatalities. A large amount of property damage occurs. Strategies for Preventing Accidents Moving Forward When a driver must back out of a parking space, this increases the risk of a collision compared with moving forward.

Paying Attention Distracted driving has always been a problem in parking lots and on roads, but the advent of the cellphone has made this a much larger issue. Even when moving slowly through a parking area, drivers can easily hit cars and pedestrians if they are looking at a phone screen. Although needing to back up is not always avoidable, drivers can boost safety by choosing spots where two back-toback spaces are open and moving forward into the second one. Most parking lots are designed this way, with rows of spaces in parallel lines instead of angles. Traveling Slowly Traveling slowly and carefully through lots is essential, but some drivers insist on zipping along at a fast pace. Instead of staying within aisles between spaces, they drive diagonally across painted lines. Everyone must brake for this vehicle. If the fast-moving driver isn't paying

Cooperating With the Lot Design Some drivers ignore the painted lines near handicap parking spaces intended to create a wide area around the vehicle. When these individuals park too close to a van or other vehicle there, they make it difficult for the physically challenged person to get back in. Extra open area is necessary for wheelchairs and walkers. Someone using a walker and trying to climb back inside is at greater risk of falling when space is tight. For Pedestrians and Bicyclists Pedestrians and bicyclists sometimes

share a significant amount of the responsibility when they are injured. It's tempting to take shortcuts through busy parking areas instead of sticking with designated crosswalks. Drivers usually don't expect to see someone on foot or on a bike darting between parked vehicles. Anyone choosing to cut through a lot this way must be attentive and observant the entire time, rather than chatting on a phone or reading text messages. Staying Safe When drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists follow essential safety guidelines, they can avoid minor and major accidents in parking lots. Drivers must be cautious and observant. They can avoid the need to back up whenever possible. Parking within designated spaces instead of ignoring painted lines is essential for protecting handicapped individuals. People on foot and riding bikes also must exercise caution and attention to prevent unwanted consequences. Questions? ASK THE LAWYER. Call 855-768-8845 or schedule an appointment at www.askthelawyer.usl

The Immigrant’s Journal - Nov 16-29, 2023 PAGE 19

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The Immigrant’s Journal - Nov 30-Dec 13, 2023 PAGE 20

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