VOLUME 4 / ISSUE 3
COMPLIMENTARY
OCTOBER 15, 2020
Unapologetically Delivering News To Communities Of Color in Westchester & Surrounding Areas
INSIDE BW
BLACK LIVES MATTER MURAL TO BE PAINTED IN MAMARONECK PAGE 6
NEW ROCHELLE SUPERINTENTENT RESIGNS AFTER YEAR WORTH OF COMMUNITY PRESSUREWPAGE 7
WRONGFUL CONVICTION EXPERT LAUNCHES FOUNDATION TO HELP EXONERATE INNOCENT PRISONERS PAGE 9
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: A 21 QUESTIONS BW FEATURE EDITORIAL: JOURNI IS CARE FREE, GROWING ISSUE IN THE WITH JONATHAN WHY NOTHING GETS NOODLE NOO & STYLES P CAMPOZANO DONE IN MOUNT VERNON GIVE US HOPE BLACK COMMMUNITY BY DAMON K. JONES BY REHAN SABRI PAGES 22
PAGE 20
BY ANDRÉ WALLACE
PAGES 23
PAGE 18
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CONGRATULATIONS TO MY PARTNERS IN HUMAN RIGHTS AND COMMUNITY ACTION
DAMON K. JONES AND AJ WOODSON OF BLACK WESTCHESTER ON THEIR ANNIVERSARY
MARK FANG
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OFFICE OF THE CITY OF YONKERS COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
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NEWS WITH THE BLACK POINT OF VIEW
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OCTOBER 15, 2020
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FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK Founded in 2014 by DAMON K. JONES AJ WOODSON Published by URBANSOUL MEDIA GROUP 455 Tarrytown Rd., Suite 1318 White Plains, NY 10607 (914) 979-2093 www.BlackWestchester.com
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Publisher DAMON K. JONES @DamonKJones
Editor-In-Chief AJ WOODSON
@BWEditorInChief
Mistress Of Information Brenda L. Crump News Reporters/ Writers AJ Woodson Damon K. Jones André Wallace Lorraine Lopez AP Reporter Rehan Sabri
As Publisher of Black Westchester Magazine (BW), I would like to thank everyone for their support of our efforts to bring information to the people of Westchester County. As we embark on a new chapter for BW, we hope to continue to empower the reader on issues in their communities. Independent media like BW has become more than a mere institution; instead, the independent media acts as a direct participant in the traditional three-branch system of governance. What many fail to realize is that independent media serves a fundamental role in making democracies run efficiently, even though there are frequent clashes. Independent media system thus often “reflects the political philosophy in which Democracy indeed functions”. This being said, BW will not be disregarded as a trivial player in the responsibilities of being a check and balance system in the political process of the Black Communities of Westchester. BW’s purpose is not only to address the political process that affects the everyday lives of communities of colour in Westchester County. BW’s mission has also been to shine a light on the brilliant culture, morals, values and elegant lifestyle of Black people. It’s time to change the narrative on how Black people are portrayed in media. As Publisher of BW, our doors are open to the public. From the publication, the website, our radio show and now the newspaper; our doors are open to the people. We do not do this for any grander position or status; we do it for the people.
A FEW WORDS FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF W elcome to our October 15, 2020 Issue Let me start off by encouraging every registered voter to get out and vote like your life
depends on it because it does. Early Voting starts Saturday, October 24th. If you can and are able participate in early voting. If not request your absentee ballot now, fill it out and mail it in or drop off at Board of Election as soon as possible, please do not wait until the last minure. I hope you enjoys this issue as much as we did putting it together. We dedicate this issue to the tenth anniversary of the death of Pace University student Danroy ‘DJ’ Henry. Black Westchester stands with the Henry family in their fight for justice and we will continue to #SayHisName. See our tribute to him on pages 14-15. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We urge every to get tested. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms. Many breast cancer symptoms are invisible and not noticeable without a professional screening, but some symptoms can be caught early just by being proactive about your breast health. October is also National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and purple is the symbolic color to raise awareness about domestic violence. We would like to take this time to thank all the readers, listeners, supporters, sponsors, contributors, and advertisiers for their support in our effort to deliver the “News With The Black Point Of View,” since 2014. Send us your feedback, let us know what you think of this issue. Let us know subjects/ topics you would like to see us cover in the future and send your letters ot the editor to BlackWestchesterMag@gmail.com. Make sure you register to vote, then VOTE like you’re life depends of it because it does, this is the most important election of our life and please don’t forget to fill out the 2020 Census! Peace and Blessings AJ Woodson, Editor-In-Chief and Co-Owner
Photographers AJ Woodson Graphic Designers AJ Woodson Paula S. Woodson/ PS Visually Speakin’ For Advertising Rates AdvertiseWithBW@gmail.com Letters To The Editor BWEditorInChief@gmail.com
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6 BLACK WESTCHESTER
NEWS WITH THE BLACK POINT OF VIEW
OCTOBER 15, 2020
BLACK WESTCHESTER NEWS BY AJ WOODSON
BLACK LIVES MATTER MURAL BLACK LEADERS SEEK ROLE WILL BE PAINTED IN MAMARONECK IN OSSINING RESPONSE TO POLICE REFORM MANDATE TOWN OF GREENBURGH HAS ALSO BEEN CONSIDERING PAINTING A BLACK LIVES MATTER MURAL ON MANHATTAN AVE.
The village board unanimously approved the mural Tuesday, September 29th, less than a month after it narrowly rejected a Black Lives Matter street mural proposed for the Washingtonville section of the village. The board changed its position after further debate among trustees and advocacy from dozens of residents in favor of a mural. The mural would either be designed inside or within the vicinity of Columbus Park or on Madison Street in the village. It’s unclear when the mural would be painted. Cities all across New York State including, Albany, Buffalo, New York City, Harlem (on side of the Adam Clayton Powell Jr, State Building), Nyack, Oswego, Rochester, Schenectady and Syracuse begin painting their own murals as well. Despite many cities renaming and painting streets with the words Black Lives Matter there wasn’t one to be found in Westchester County. Until late August when Yonkers led the way and became the first of the 43 municipalities of Westchester to do so. A 372 foot Black Lives Matter mural was supposed to be painted this week on a side street in Mamaroneck, but the Village Board voted it down Monday, September 14th, reported Fox 5 New York. But the five-member Village Board decided to not allow a Black Lives Matter mural to be temporarily painted on a small side street less than a half-mile from town. Now a Black Lives Matter mural will be painted on a village street in Mamaroneck, but where it will go remains in question. What is certain is private funds would be used for it. When the mural was proposed earlier this month, three trustees voted it down. They said they were concerned about a mural inviting more foot traffic to the neighborhood and about allowing political messages on public streets, reported Lohud. Mamaroneck Mayor Thomas Murphy, who supported both mural proposals, told The Journal News/lohud he was pleased it was approved on the second try. “The debate over the matter was spirited but cathartic,” Murphy said in a statement. “Hopefully it is the beginning of a process of understanding and recognizing systemic racism. The first step in recovery is admitting you have a problem.” Before giving the green light, trustees bickered over the village’s legal risk if they allowed the mural and how much involvement they should have in its creation. Murphy, frustrated by the dragging discussion, said the village should allow residents to largely plan and paint it.
COULD GREENBURGH BE NEXT? A resident of Greenburgh gave Black Westchester a tip Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner would be signing an executive order to paint Black Lives Matter on Manhattan Ave. The resident claimed that Councilwoman Gina Jackson voted against twice so Feiner was planning to sign an executive order. We contact Feiner for clarification and he informed BW, while he supports the painting of a Black Lives Matter Mural, he doesnt think he has to power to sign a executive order. “I support painting black lives matter on Manhattan Ave or placing signs at municipal buildings (like Town Hall, the TDYCC, our parks),” Town Supervisor Paul Feiner shared with Black Westchester. “Think the symbolism would be positive. I don’t think that I have the power to issue an executive order unilaterally. I think the Board will agree to take some symbolic actions. In the meantime, [Councilwoman] Gina [Jackson] is chairing a committee dealing with addressing systematic racism. Our goal is not to only symbolically take action but to come up with initiatives that the town could/should take that will improve the lives of those who have been impacted by examples of racism. Words, signs, don’t mean anything unless followed up with action steps.” Stay tuned to Black Westchester for more on this developing story and any of municipalities of Westchester’s plans for future Black Lives Matter Murals. If you have any information on plans of BLM Murals email us at BlackWestchesterMag@gmail.com.
A group of twenty-three community leaders in Ossining has petitioned the Village Board of Trustees, seeking a seat at the table in the process set forth by Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order 203, the New York State Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative. The leaders were responding to a decision by the Board of Trustees to enter into a contract with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) to serve as facilitators for the Collaborative process. At a meeting with Mayor Gearity on September 1, NAACP President Aaron Moore expressed frustration that the Village had issued a request for proposals and selected a facilitator without involving community stakeholders in the process. “The Village rushed out the RFP with a two week deadline for proposals. The decision to select the Police Chiefs to guide the police reform process appears to be a serious conflict of interest,” Moore said. “Officer accountability is the key change we need at the Ossining Police Department. Will having a police organization in charge of reform address that need?” At the September 1 meeting, Mayor Gearity agreed to allow the group to review the IACP proposal and the proposals of three other groups who applied for the position. The letter sent by the community leaders on September 9 (reproduced below) recommended that the Board consider the application of Matrix Consulting Group and asked to be a part of the interview process in reconsidering the initial selection of IACP. In addition, the group asked that the Mayor appoint a Collaborative Advisory Committee to guide the process and create the plan for reforming the Ossining police that is required by Executive Order 203. Pastor Shaun Jones of the Star of Bethlehem Baptist Church, one of those signing the letter, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the process. “The Ossining police interact with dozens of ethnic and cultural communities,” he said. “Communities of color and the Ossining police Department already have a strained relationship. The Village can begin to bridge the divide by listening to the expressed needs and feelings of the black and Hispanic community that believe that a true reform process may be the difference between life or death for our sons and daughters after an interaction with the police.” “Without the trust of the community, no reform process can be effective,” said Bishop Joan Whittaker, Pastor of HORAC Ministries. “I hope the Village will do the hard work necessary to engage the people who have the greatest stake in a police force that is effective and respectful of the community it is sworn to protect.” Jerry Smith, former Ossining NAACP President, pointed out that past efforts to enact reforms have fallen short. “Will the end product of this process be a rehash of previous recommendations for sensitivity training and support for officers’ mental health needs?” he asked. “Unless there is an emphasis on transparency and accountability for police actions, there will not be any real change in the dynamic between the police and African American residents of Ossining.” Moore, the Ossining NAACP Branch President, detailed the sort of fundamental changes that the group wants the Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative to consider. In addition to officer accountability, these include a policy for the use of force, demilitarization of the department, officer body cameras, empowerment of the Civilian Police Complaint Review Board, privacy protections, and transparency in the department’s budget, hiring, and promotion policies. “The response of the Village to Executive Order 203 is an opportunity to address severe problems of bias and systemic racism in policing that have existed in our country for many decades,” the leaders wrote in their letter to Village officials. “It is an opportunity to begin a process of reform and reinvention that is not likely to present itself again in our lifetimes. Ossining can, in its own way, lead the way by engaging all stakeholders and winning buy-in from everyone affected by our local system of law enforcement. The Board must recognize that this will be a difficult process whose success cannot be taken for granted. Involving stakeholders in every aspect of the process is an essential component of building a robust and lasting Collaborative.”
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WHISTLEBLOWER COP CALLS ON SCARPINO TO RECUSE LEG. DAVID TUBIOLO TESTS HIMSELF FROM INVESTIGATION INTO CORRUPTION IN MVPD BY AJ WOODSON POSITIVE FOR COVID-19 V arious Law Enforcement Officers, Police Reform and
community advocates stand with Mount Vernon police officer Murashea “Mike” Bovell, on Thursday, Septemeber 24th in calling on Westchester County District Attorney Anthony Scarpino to recuse himself from an investigation they say he has mishandled since September 2018, when Bovell, a whistleblower police officer reported corruption in the MVPD. The group requested the Honorable Kathie E. Davidson, administrative judge for NY’s 9th Judicial District, to appoint a special district attorney to investigate. Bovell, an officer with the Mount Vernon Police Department since 2007 secretly recorded his colleagues acknowledging false arrests, evidence planting and beatings, as first reported by George Joseph in the Gothamist/WNYC. He then brought the recordings to Scarpino, who Bovell’s attorney, Joseph Murray alleges swept the incident under the rug. At a press conference in front of the Westchester County Courthouse, where Scarpino’s office is located. They requested DA Scarpino – who lost the June Democratic Primary to Mimi Rocah – recuse himself from the investigation and have the Honorable Kathie E. Davidson, administrative judge for NY’s 9th Judicial District, appoint a special district attorney to investigate. Murray said they can not wait until Rocah – who does not have a challenger in the November 3rd General Election, due to Republican opponent Bruce Bendish dropping out the race – takes office in January.
“Now that Bovell’s recordings have been published, his life is in danger every day he puts on that uniform and goes on patrol,” Murray shared with Black Westchester, when asked why is he having the press conference now. “Bovell cannot wait until a new district attorney is installed in January.” Jesse Van Lew of Save Mount Vernon, Kenneth Chamberlain Jr. Co-founder of Westchester Coalition of Police Reform (WCPR), NYPD LT. Edwin Raymond, NYPD SGT Steven Lee, former NYPD Detective Robert Francis, Greenburgh District Leader and community activist Clifton Abrams and Vincent Capers of the Grand Council of Guardians came out to stand with and speak in support of Officer Bovell. Officer Bovell – who speakers say should be celebrated – and his attorney first appeared on Black Westchester’s People Before Politics Radio, Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019 for the first time to tell his story.
BOARD ESTABLISHES TESTING, ISOLATION PROTOCOLS
White Plains, NY — On the morning of Thursday, October 8, the Board of Legislators was informed that Legislator David Tubiolo has tested positive for COVID-19. Legislator Tubiolo informs Black Westchester he is doing well and has been isolating since learning of his positive result on Wednesday. He is taking the necessary precautions. He is working with the Westchester County Department of Health and contact tracers to identify those he has been in contact with. The Board of Legislators offices will be closed for deep cleaning. Legislator Tubiolo was last in the Board office on Thursday, October 1. All legislators and staff who were in contact with Legislator Tubiolo are being tested and the Board is working the Department of Health to ensure that the appropriate protocols are followed for the health and safety of legislators, staff and the public. Following the news of a positive Covid-19 test by Legislator Tubiolo, County Executive George Latimer received a negative result following his own Covid-19 test. CE Latimer will continue to quarantine as required as he wishes Legislator Tubiolo a speedy recovery. “Unlike what we have seen out of officials in Washington, D.C., here in Westchester we believe in science, we believe in medicine and we believe in trusting their years of experience-based guidance,” Latimer said. Latimer’s third speech as executive is being put on hold again.
NEW ROCHELLE SUPERINTENDENT MAP: ACTIVE/TOTAL WESTCHESTER DR. LAURA FEIJOO RESIGNS COUNTY COVID-19 CASES AS OF 10/8
BY AJ WOODSON
The New Rochelle Board of Education accepted the resignation of Dr. Laura Feijoo as the Superintendent of Schools. The District and Dr. Feijóo have executed a separation agreement, pursuant to which her resignation is effective Tuesday, October 6, 2020, Board President Rachel Relkin said in an emailed statement to the school community. “The Board of Education wishes to thank Dr. Feijóo for her dedication to the District during a challenging school year and her commitment to the students, staff and community during her tenure with the District. Because this is a confidential personnel matter, the Board of Education, the District and Dr. Feijóo will have no further comments regarding this matter,” the BOE wrote in a statement to the New Rochelle community. The Board announced that they have appointed Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Alex Marrero, to serve as Interim Superintendent of Schools for the remainder of the school year. Dr. Marrero has served as Acting Superintendent over the past month leading the District during this unprecedented time. The Board also continued the appointment of Peter Scordo as Acting Deputy Superintendent for the remainder of the year to assist the Board and Dr. Marrero in ensuring the stability of our educational program. The Board thanked Dr. Marrero and Mr. Scordo for agreeing to step up at this critical time and they are committed to supporting our entire central administrative team as we continue with re-entry and navigate the challenges ahead. “We are optimistic in what our future holds for us and have full confidence in the educators we have selected to lead the District. Our District offers an exciting opportunity to work in a wonderful school community that values excellence and equity, has high expectations for all students, and embraces our rich diversity. At our next meeting, along with our continued focus on re-entry, we will discuss the search process for a permanent Superintendent. We look forward to engaging the community in this search process. Our goal is to hire a new Superintendent effective July 1, 2021,” the statement read. Dr. Feijoo’s departure comes less than a year into her four-year contract. Her short tenure in New Rochelle was marred by controversy, mainly over her involvement in a $90 million reverse-discrimination lawsuit against Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza of NYC DOE, the largest school system in the nation. Feijoo faced a major community effort to oust her as soon as she arrived last year. A lawsuit filed by residents who said the school board did not follow proper protocol when hiring Feijoo will be dropped, attorney Richard St. Paul said. But he warned that he would file another legal action if residents believe the board flouts district policies. Min. Mark McLean, president of the New Rochelle NAACP chapter, tells Black Westchester, Feijoo’s departure gives the city an opportunity to heal.
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8 BLACK WESTCHESTER
OCTOBER 15, 2020
SURROUNDING AREA NEWS
SURROUNDING AREA NEWS
ISLAND ADVOCATES FOR POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY CUOMO UNVEILS ‘COVID ALERT’ APP LONG CARAVAN TO DEMAND ACTION ON POLICE REFORM
On Sunday, October 11 at 2:00pm, the Long Island Advocates for Police Accountability (LIAFPA) and its allies caravaned in their cars to the Nassau County Supreme Court to demand that County Executive Laura Curran take action on police reform. This caravan took place in lieu of a traditional march to abide by social distancing guidelines. On June 12, 2020 Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order # 203 (“EO”) requiring each local government in the State to adopt a policing reform plan as a condition of receiving State aid.
GET COVID-19 EXPOSURE ALERTS Add Your Phone. Stop the Spread. NEW YORK — The war on COVID-19 may have just gotten a little smarter. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo unveiled a new smartphone app on Thursday. October 1st that alerts users if they’ve been within 6 feet of a person who has tested positive for the virus. The app, called “COVID Alert NY,” employs Bluetooth technology to record whenever users come within proximity of each other, though Cuomo cautioned on a conference call with reporters that it’s anonymous and collects no personal or geographic data. “It doesn’t give any names, doesn’t give any privacy information,” the governor said. The technology only works if a person who tests positive downloads the app and registers the COVID-19 diagnosis. To stop the spread of COVID-19, New York needs each of us to do our part. One way you can help yourself and your community is by participating in our newly launched mobile contract tracing app COVID Alert NY. This is the official app of New York State, run by the NYS Department of Health as part of New York State’s comprehensive COVID-19 testing and contact tracing effort. The ultimate goal is to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The more people who download COVID Alert NY, the more effective it will be. Help protect your community while maintaining your privacy. The free mobile apps–available to anyone 18 or older who lives, works, or attends college in New York or New Jersey–are available for download from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. COVID Alert NY is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Bengali, Korean, Russian and Haitian Creole. Download the free app to your smartphone on Apple App Store or get it on Google Play to receive an alert if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
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THE SHOW WON’T GO ON, BROADWAY EXTENDS SHUTDOWN THROUGH MAY 2021
The show won’t go on, theater lovers looking forward to the return of Broadway shows will have to keep waiting. The Broadway League announced that the suspension on performances, which was put in place at the start of the pandemic in March, has now been extended through May 30, 2021, extending the Theater District shutdown into a second year, the Broadway League announced Friday, October 9th. Broadway theaters lowered their curtains for the last time at 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 12th, after an usher who worked at two Broadway shows, “Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?” and “Six,” tested positive for the coronavirus. At that time, 31 productions were running, including eight new shows in previews and eight in rehearsals, when Gov. Cuomo announced a ban of gatherings of 500 people or more. “With nearly 97,000 workers who rely on Broadway for their livelihood and an annual economic impact of $14.8 billion to the city, our membership is committed to re-opening as soon as conditions permit us to do so,” said Charlotte St. Martin, president of the Broadway League. “We are working tirelessly with multiple partners on sustaining the industry once we raise our curtains again.” Mary McColl, executive director of the Actors’ Equity Association, said the extended shutdown was the right call despite the profound economic impact on its membership of 51,000 actors and stage managers. The group is advocating for $10 billion in federal arts funding through the proposed Save Our Stages Act. “This is a deeply painful time for everyone who depends on the art for their livelihood,” said the union leader. “We are at this moment because, seven months into the pandemic, our national still lacks a coherent national strategy for masks and testing which could help bring this virus under control.” The Broadway League said anyone holding tickets for shows scheduled through May 30, 2021 should contact their point of purchase for details about exchanges and refunds. It remains uncertain when Broadway’s curtains will reopen. At the time of the shutdown, there were 31 productions up and running — including eight new shows in previews and another eight in rehearsals for the since-cancelled Spring 2020 season. Dates for each returning show and new shows will be announced by the individual productions, the league said.
The ensuing guidelines provided a four-phase timeline to help each local government meet this deadline. Phase I of the guidelines expired on September 30th and had required Nassau County to (1) convene local stakeholders, (2) gather data and evaluate policing policies, (3) share data and evaluations with the public so that (4) the data and evaluation can inform the formulation of the plan. Currently, Nassau County has failed to meet its obligations under Phase I of the EO. There has been no public sharing of data-collection or policy evaluations; only four affected communities within the entire County and two community grassroots organizations are represented on the PACT. There are no experts on mental health, substance abuse, homelessness, or domestic violence included on the PACT. In short, Nassau County has not provided a forum to allow community stakeholders to collaborate and help create a police reform plan for Nassau County. As it stands, the County Executive and Police Commissioner have stated that a comprehensive plan will be presented to the public in November; this presentation will be the first opportunity for transparency into the County’s process. LIAFPA asserts that this allows the County, led by Law Enforcement, to set the terms and framework for any reforms moving forward, violating both the Executive Order’s spirit and content, making it fait accompli. Advocates, who met with County officials to express concern last month, emphasized their contention that the County is side-stepping an intentional, transparent, and inclusive process, favoring a disingenuous, manipulative public relations campaign. They also shared their concerns about the number of law enforcement and elected officials inside the PACT, and their role in controlling the process, leaving the fox to guard the henhouse. The Caravan gathered on the east shoulder of Earle Ovington Blvd in Uniondale at 1:45 to depart at 2:15pm. The caravan drove towards Merrick Avenue and made a right onto Hempstead Turnpike, followed by a right onto Washington Street, traveling through Garden City to Supreme Court Drive, finally making a left and pulling into the parking lot facing the Supreme Court building (facing North).
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RALLY HELD IN BROOKLYN TO CALL FOR PAUSE ON SUPREME COURT NOMINATION As confirmation hearings are set to begin Monday, October 12 for Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett, activists in Brooklyn held a rally Sunday to put a pause on that decision until after the election. The rally was held outside the Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Municipal Building on Joralemon Street. The argument of the elected officials and activists at the rally is that voting in this election is already underway and they say the right thing to do would be to wait until people know the results before proceeding to fill the vacant Supreme Court seat. With sadness and pride, the group remembered the legacy Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg left behind - and the inspiration the Brooklyn native placed in the hearts of thousands of Americans before her death in September. Many at the rally pointed to Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s record that they say will hinder progress in the country. They say too many issues are at stake, including women’s rights, LGBQ rights, racial justice, voter suppression and more. Trump has spoken out on this issue numerous times, saying he is still in his first term, and it is his right as president to nominate a Supreme Court justice when there becomes a vacancy. Confirmation hearings for Judge Barrett will begin Monday October 12th. and last through Thursday, October 15th.
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NEWS ACROSS THE NATION MICHIGAN RENAMES BUILDING TO HONOR CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS LANSING, Mich (AP) — A state building previously named after a slave owner now bears the name of two former state legislators who led efforts to reform Michigan’s civil rights laws. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other state officials unveiled the new sign in a ceremony in Lansing on Monday. It marks the first time in state history a state building is named after an African-American woman. Formerly known as the Lewis Cass Building, after a former U.S. senator from Michigan and slave owner, the building will now be called the Elliott-Larsen Building. Reps. Daisy Elliott, a Detroit Democrat and Mel Larsen, an Oakland County Republican, sponsored the 1977 Civil Rights Act that prohibited discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, familial status or marital status. Larsen spoke at the ceremony about how proud he is to have his name next to Elliott’s and his hope that Michigan can take the next step by adding the same protections for those of the LGBTQ community. Badriyyah Sabree, the granddaughter of Elliott, spoke on her grandmother’s behalf. Elliot died in 2015. “We can never give up as long as there is discrimination of any kind of any people,” Sabree said. “We must be ever vigilant.”
PHILADELPHIA FIRE DEPT PROMOTES 1ST EVER BLACK WOMAN BATTALION CHIEF
Philadelphia, PA — Lisa Forrest has made history as the newest Battalion Chief to be promoted in the Philadelphia Fire Dept. She is the first African-American woman to ever occupy this position. “This is not for me, this is for somebody coming behind me to let them know that anything is possible,” Forrest told ABC News. Forrest, who started her career as a firefighter in 2003, worked her way up the ladder quickly. Within just two years, she became a lieutenant. She also made history in 2013 when she became the first Black female captain. “Hopefully, they look at me and say if she can do it, I can do it,” said Forrest, who is also the first woman president of Club Valiants, a society for minority firefighters.
WRONGFUL CONVICTION EXPERT LAUNCHES FOUNDATION TO HELP EXONERATE INNOCENT PRISONERS
A historic initiative has been launched on International Wrongful Conviction Day by Timothy T. Williams, an expert on Police Procedure, Use of Force & Wrongful Conviction It is estimated that 2.3 million people are currently incarcerated in the United States, and approximately 2 – 10% (40,000 – 230,000) are wrongfully convicted.
Since a majority of wrongful conviction cases do not have DNA evidence, it can sometimes take years, even decades, to prove the innocence of a wrongfully convicted person. However, such legal personnel cannot afford to work pro bono long-term and most convicted persons seeking exoneration cannot afford legal representation. Per Santa Clara University of Law, some cases can cost more than $2 million and an estimated 5,000 attorney hours or more to win the freedom of a wrongfully convicted person. Launching in October 2020, the Timothy T. Williams, Jr. Foundation for Wrongful Convictions (TTWFWC) is making history by providing attorneys, experts, and criminal investigators with grant funding that embraces their prevailing industry rates to work as teams on state and federal wrongful conviction cases nationwide. In response to the national crisis of wrongful convictions, TTWFWC sets itself apart by funding the exoneration process from beginning to end. TTWFWC will also provide continuing education and professional development workshops to the next generation of expert witnesses, criminal investigators, and attorneys. Established by Timothy T. Williams, Jr., TTWFWC aims to exonerate at least one wrongfully convicted person by 2025. Mr. Williams is somewhat of a “hidden figure” as an African American national leading expert on police procedure, use of force, and wrongful conviction. Also, as an author and retired Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Senior Detective Supervisor, with more than 46 years of experience working in the criminal justice system, Mr. Williams is the perfect person to launch such a historic endeavor. Since the debut of his consultancy practice in 2003, T.T. Williams, Jr., Investigations, Inc., Mr. Williams has provided expert testimony in more than 200 cases in Criminal, State and Federal Courts nationwide. Also, he has analyzed over 1,300 cases. Most notably, Williams’ expert analysis in the wrongful murder conviction of Kash D. Register helped to lead to the largest reported settlement, at that time, in an individual civil rights case in the history of Los Angeles, totaling $16.7 million in restitution in 2016. The Timothy T. Williams, Jr. Foundation for Wrongful Convictions has been endorsed by some of the most recognizable names in law, including Loyola Law School’s Project for the Innocent (LPI) and award-winning trial lawyer Thomas Mesereau. To learn more about TTWFWC, or donate to the organization’s worthy cause, visit www.TTWFWC.org.
12-YEAR OLD JUST STARTED HIS 2ND YEAR
IN COLLEGE, MAJORING IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING
BLACK VIROLOGIST MAKES CALL TO ACTION FOR PROTECTION AGAINST COVID-19
Tennessee-Based, African-AmericanOwned Corporation Providing COVID-19 Disaster Response Services for a Safer Return to Work and School Denver, CO — With people of color experiencing a higher death rate from COVID-19 than any other ethnic group in America, virologist, trauma surgeon, and chief medical officer of SRS Inc. Dr. Lane Rolling is offering ways to return to work and school more safely. Dr. Rolling, a certified chemical and biological warfare expert who is dedicated to saving lives and eradicating the coronavirus, is making an urgent call for change by speaking truth to power. His mission is driven by his passion to change today’s COVID-19 statistics to create a brighter tomorrow. Often called the Black Dr. Fauci, Dr. Rolling’s grassroots efforts include traveling across the country and appearing in virtual town halls and meetings to speak and educate organizations and businesses about COVID-19 and how they can protect themselves from the impending second wave of virus cases. As the Director of TPaIDA Clinical Field Medicine Bio Research International, he conducted research in tropical disease and infectious diseases for approximately 14 years in Peru and worked extensively with native Peruvian shamans to find new drugs. “This virus is not going away,” Rolling said on a recent podcast with Community Podcaster Sandra “Queenie” Mclean, who recently lost her father to the coronavirus. “The SARS COVID virus has changed our lives forever. The virus is endemic. The second wave will be a game-changer, and we all need to prepare ourselves and protect our families.” Rolling is helping the company develop several services and products that can integrate into protocols for eliminating the risk of COVID-19 when opening facilities to large numbers of people. These COVID-19 Prevention and Disaster Management Services include biosafety training programs, building testing and construction, and project and facility management. SRS has products to integrate into those services such as a disinfectant and antiseptic hand sanitizer that can be purchased and used by any size facility and even in homes. ProGuardeum Disinfectant Solution is made with hypochlorous acid. This chlorine solution, approved by the EPA and FDA, has been used since 1858 for many purposes from washing food to cleaning contact lenses. For more information on the SRS products, visit https://SRSproducts.com/ref/bee@urbanspectrum.
THE MANY FACES OF TRUMP
1ST BLACK PERSON TO BE EXECUTED BY THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION Marietta, GA — Caleb Anderson, a 12-year old gifted boy from Georgia, has already finished his first year in college and has just started his second year. He is majoring in Aerospace Engineering at Chattahoochee Technical College. Caleb was just 9-months old when he learned to sign more than 250 words. He eventually learned to speak and read when he turned 11-months old. Aside from the English language, he also learned Spanish, French, and Mandarin. Caleb’s parents, Claire and Kobi, knew he was special and has been very supportive of him ever since. At the age of 3, Caleb qualified for MENSA. He joined at the age of 5, making him the youngest African-American boy to be accepted at that time. Caleb has exceptional from elementary to middle and high school. His mother said Caleb thought those were boring and not challenging so he wanted to go to college already and he was enjoying it so far. Caleb is set to graduate at the age of 14. He says that he plans to continue his studies at Georgia Tech as well as MIT.
The US government executed Christopher Vialva, the first Black inmate put to death as part of the Trump administration’s July resumption of federal executions that ended a 17-year hiatus. Vialva is also the first man in 70 years to be executed for crimes committed as a teenager. Vialva, 40, was pronounced dead at 6:42 pm local time Thursday, September 24th inside the federal prison at Terre Haute, Indiana. Thursday’s execution came as the US grappled with racial disparities in its criminal justice system, with people taking to the streets across the US to protest against police brutality and racism. Of the 56 people on federal death row, 24, or almost half, are Black. Black people make up only 13% of the US population. Vialva’s lawyer questioned whether the execution truly served justice since she claimed he was the victim of a racist trial. Susan Otto, a federal defender, said Vialva was portrayed as a street gang leader when there was no evidence of that being true.
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14 BLACK WESTCHESTER
NEWS WITH THE BLACK POINT OF VIEW
OCTOBER 15, 2020
COVER STORIES BW COVER STORY
REMEMBERING DANROY BY AJ WOODSON
Being Black in America should not be a death sentence but that’s exactly what it was for Eric Garner, Mike Brown, Sandra Bland and too many others to name. More recently names like Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and Jacob Blake became the latest hashtags. But it was the death of George Floyd that set the world on fire. Inspiring protests in almost every major city in America as well as 20 plus other countries. We must remember all the lives lost at the hands of law enforcement, keep their names alive and never let their deaths be in vain. We must continue the fight for justice and criminal justice reforms. But locally let’s us never forget we have George Floyds in Westchester County too. Let us never forget Kenneth Chamberlain Sr., Jonathan Maldonado, Dario Tena, Kamal Flowers, Raynette Turner, Samuel Cruz, Felix Kumi and just five miles south of Mount Vernon Ramarley Graham shot in his grandmother’s house in the NE Bronx, just to name a few. Before all of them, before Black Lives Matter became a rally cry or an organization, there was the death of Pace University student Danroy ‘DJ’ Henry, who was shot and killed in 2010 by Officer Hess of the Mount Pleasant Police Department. 10 years after a police officer killed DJ Henry, his mom says it’s heartbreaking to see nothing has changed. “Ten years ago, we lost our son in the street - handcuffed. And here we go 10 years later, George Floyd dies in the street, being handcuffed,” DJ’s mom Angela Henry told CBS News special correspondent James Brown. “And it’s heartbreaking to see that nothing has changed.” Dan and Angela Henry never imagined what would happen to their son. “We sent him off to college to play football, and he never came home,” Dan Henry said. DJ was a junior playing football for Pace University in New York in 2010. Nearly a decade after he was shot and killed by a white police officer, a group of big names in entertainment and sports have joined that call and are demanding that the case be reopened to bring justice in Henry’s “wrongful death.” In a letter sent to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, Monday, July 13, 2020, celebrities including Jay Z and Rihanna are asking the AG to probe the case for potential police misconduct, and if a pattern of discrimination led to DJ’s killing. “The facts of the case reek of local conflict of interest, racial bias and even false testimony. Justice it appears has been denied,” states the letter which was also signed by Mary J. Blige, Odell Beckham Jr., Taraji Henson, Charlize Theron, Gabrielle Union, Kerry Washington, Michael Williams, and Pharrell Williams. The letter comes amid the national efforts toward police reform and the peaceful protests that took place in almost every major city following the death of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery and other Black Lives lost at the hands of law enforcement. A Change.org petition was created in June to reopen the case. Charges were never filed, but the young man’s family is hoping there’s finally momentum to change that. The family welcomes any help they can get to re-examine the facts. “The moment gives us some hope,” said Danroy Henry. “It’s a different moment it feels. And it isn’t just about what the celebrities are doing. We appreciate their efforts, but there are lots of folks writing letters to the governor of New York.” In June, a spokesperson for Westchester County District Attorney Anthony Scarpino Jr. - who just lost his bid for re-election to former Assistant United States Attorney in the Southern District of New York, Mimi Rocah, because many feel he has failed to prosecute police criminality - told The Enterprise that there were no plans to reopen the case at the time. “The case could only be reopened if new evidence was discovered,” said office spokesperson Helen Jonsen. Despite DA Scarpino’s unwillingness to act once again, pressure to reopen the case continues to mount. The 10 celebrities who sent the letter to Barr are not the only ones speaking out about DJ Henry’s case.
Actress and stand-up comedian Amy Schumer joined in on the call for justice on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, speaking about the case during an appearance on “The View.” She also tweeted about Henry’s case. “They are considering reopening the case because of new evidence. We need to support,” she wrote. “Please everyone I know post this and say his name #djhenry #justicefordjhenry” The Henry family has yet to hear from the governor or Attorney General about the possibility of reopening the case. In October 2010, Danroy ‘DJ’ Henry was shot and killed by Officer Hess through the windshield of his car while Hess sprawled on the hood of the car. The Henry family and their attorney, Michael Sussman says that Mount Pleasant Police Chief Louis Alagno and Lt. Brian Fanelli deliberately covered up crucial details of the fatal shooting of their son to protect the police involved. According to the Henry family, Fanelli wrote in his report that “Officer Beckley stated that he believed he was going to be killed by the vehicle and that he drew his weapon and fired at the car.”
In his federal Court deposition, Officer Beckley said he told Fanelli that he was actually aiming at Pleasantville Officer Aaron Hess because he saw him as the aggressor. He fired one shot at Hess as he clung to the hood of Henry’s vehicle. Officer Beckley also stated that he informed Lt. Fanelli that he shot at Officer Hess, who was the aggressor, the threat, not the car driven by DJ Henry. According to the Henry family, Mount Pleasant Police Chief Louis Alagno knew that the report was false when he briefed the media in the morning saying Beckley fired at the vehicle. In federal deposition, Mount Pleasant Police Chief, Louis Alagno admitted he knew it was false. “He could provide no meaningful explanation for his deception,” Sussman said, when speaking about Alagno’s deposition. “How can a Police Chief not explain why he made false statements? Or maybe the more important question is why a Police Chief would knowingly make false statements?” Blacks In Law Enforcement President Damon K. Jones asked. “The deposition of Officer Beckley takes away any credibility to the report of Lt. Fanelli, Police Chief Alagno and the shooter of DJ Henry, Officer Aaron Hess,” His case would go on to garner national attention, merit a mention in a song by Jay-Z and Kanye West on the track “Murder to Excellence.” from their top-selling album “Watch the Throne”, and prompt calls for justice from celebrities and civil rights leaders. The family settled its lawsuit for $6 million against the village of Pleasantville in 2017 and received an apology. But state and federal authorities have declined to bring charges and today the case remains the same as it was years ago – closed. Black Westchester continues to stands with the Henry family in their fight for justice!
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BW COVER STORY
‘DJ’ HENRY 10 YEARS WITHOUT DJ
BY THE HENRY FAMILY
The Henry family in 2000. Left to right, Amber, Angella, Kyle, Dan and DJ. (Photo: Courtesy of the family)
October 17th will mark 10 years since our son and brother DJ Henry was wrongfully killed by Arron Hess. 10 years without his voice, 10 years without seeing his smile, 10 years without his laugh, 10 years without his touch, 10 years without “Love You” A decade of withouts. A decade of no accountability for the killing of DJ. Our lives will never be the same. We will forever have an empty seat at the table and an immense emptiness in our hearts. But we’re resolved to honor DJ’s life through the DJ Henry Dream Fund and be a beacon of hope to others. We’re grateful for the endless love, support, and kindness of so many who never even knew DJ and from those that love him as much as we do. We continue to hope that we will one day see justice for DJ! Please visit www.djdreamfund.org to see how we’re keeping DJ alive! Dan, Angella, Kyle and Amber Henry DJ Henry Dream Fund www.djdreamfund.org 31 Milk Street Box 961233 Boston, MA 02109
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16 BLACK WESTCHESTER
NEWS WITH THE BLACK POINT OF VIEW
OCTOBER 15, 2020
V O T E Judge E. Loren
WILLIAmS MURPHY ONDROVIC Alexandra
ROBERT
your candidates for
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New York Attorney Lauren P. Raysor is an experienced litigator whose practice focuses on:
Personal Injury • Bankruptcy Civil Rights • Matrimonial & Family Court Member of the Westchester Black Bar Association Former President of the Metropolitan Black Bar Association Member of the Mount Vernon NAACP Chair, Mount Vernon Coalition for Police Reform
Help is just one call away. Call attorney Lauren P. Raysor at 914-733-8080.
11 West Prospect Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 10550 (914) 733-8080 • laurenpraysor.com Attorney Advertising. Prior Results Do Not Guarantee a Similar Outcome.
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18BLACK WESTCHESTER
BW ENTERTAINMENT SPOTLIGHT
OCTOBER 15, 2019
GREENBURGH NATIVE JOURNI IS CARE FREE
BY AJ WOODSON
As Editor-In-Chief the mailbox and inbox are full of requests to check out a new recording artists or reasons why we need to put someone, some business or organization in the paper. More time than not they do not live up to the hype. But every now and then you get something from someone that you are glad you checked it out. It would be easy to ignore it or put it on the back burner til later, but then you miss the real gems. I come from an era where singers sang, rappers rapped and performers put on a hell of a performance. Well it is my great pleasure to introduce to you a new songstress that hails from Greenburgh and graduated from Woodllands High School, home of the local legends Atlantic Starr. In a time where our world has been turned upside down from dual pandemics, COVID-19 and Black and Brown Lives lost at the hands of law enforcement, this local lady grabs the mic and our attention and urges us to live Care Free, she tells us she will not ‘let life get the best of me,” with her new single. Now residing in Brooklyn, this singer / songwriter and producer goes by the name Journi. She has been deeply influenced by music of many genres from a very young age. Like Jill Scott, she is a soprano who infused jazz, R&B, spoken word, and Hip-Hop in a style we used to call neo soul. At only 21 years young, Journi is a seasoned performer who has sung on numerous albums, radio / television shows & commercials. Having worked with well known artists on various projects, she can’t wait for future collaborations on her solo endeavors. Through her music, she hopes to help nourish her audiences self expression, love & joy. Check out her new debut single “Care Free” out now on all major platforms, & stay tuned for much more! Remember the name!
PEEKSKILL MAYOR & RAPPER STYLES P GIVE US HOPE BY AJ WOODSON
“We made this, the first song on the album to give people hope for a better future, as well as to prepare the listeners for a ride they will hopefully never forget,” Noodle Noo shares with Black Westchester. “The lyrics express the need for hope and desires to self reflection and improvement. Using the platform of music to promote hope will motivate listeners to take positive and Hope becomes a fuel that helps remind listeners to make to the most of the hardest situations.” Noodle hopes to get everyone in the world to believe in themselves if anything. “Through it all , I’d never give up on my people.” The games comes in layers, the Ghost and the Mayor. - Styles P “Adding Styles P from the Lox made this song one of the most prolific songs out right now,” Noodle Noo shares. “Styles’ delivery and message is impeccable and the streets and the streets and the politcians will have no choice but to embrace this epic collaboration. People all over the world are suffering from stress, finances, wars, relationships. employment challenges, and the list goes on. The angelic voice of Shane Tu Kora just creates a powerful frequency that will inspire anyone to sing along and believe. We must control our emotions in times of challenge and focus on the prize. The prize is getting, successfully to the finish line. Whatever you experience keep hope alive.” Hope Pt. 2 featuring Styles P & Shane Tu Kora is the first single of Noodle Noo’s new album Politics-N-Music, which was released, September 26, 2020 on Noo Moves Entertainment/ Champagne International Music Group and is available on Amazon Music, iTunes and Apple Music
The Change that we want to see, is finally getting close So I got some help from the Ghost and we’re able to bring you HOPE - Noodle Noo Yonkers Hip-Hop legend Styles P from the Lox joins Peekskill Mayor Andre Rainey known locally as Noodle Noo to remind people the Hope is the Positive Expectation of a Better Future.
“We’ve learned music decreases stress while increasing health at the same time,” Noodle Noo shares about the album. “If you listen to music that inspires you, it can decrease levels of the ‘hormone cortisol’ within your body system. Being that stress causes 50-60% of all illnesses, this isn’t just an album of good music; we’re trying to change the minds of the world and health of all listeners. This project will elevate the mind of any listener. Positive, influential, timeless music often serves as a therapy for all, whether as motivation for someone to achieve or to seek healing over a rough situation. The power and influence music has over the people won’t be taken for granted, especially our younger generation, who need the guidance.”
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OCTOBER 15, 2019
THREE YEARS AND COUNTING
BLACK WESTCHESTER19
DEMOGRAPHICS GENRE Male - 42.55% female - 57.45% RACE/ETHNICITY/NATIONALITY Black/ African-American- 62.24% Hispanic or Latino - 6.12% White - 23.47% Asian - 2.04% Caribbean - 10.20% Native American - 7.14% Other - 2.04%
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THREE YEARS STRONG AND COUNTING
AGE 17 OR YOUNGER- 5.15% 18-20 - 1.03% 21-29 - 4.12% 30-39 - 6.19% 40-49 - 31.96% 50-59 - 29.90% 60 OR OLDER - 21.65% EMPLOYMENT STATUS Employed, Working Full-Time- 46.24% Employed, Working Part-Time - 5.45% Self Employed - 15.05% Unemployed - 5.38% Retired - 18.28% Disabled, Unable To Work - 8.60% RELATIONSHIP STATUS Married- 33.68% Widowed - 3.16% Divorce - 14.74% Separated - 1.05% Domestic Partner or Civil Union - 2.11% Single but Cohabiting - 8.42% Single, Never Married - 36.84% HIGHEST LEVEL OF EDUCATION Graduated from High School- 9.72% GED - 2.78% Some College - 23.61% Graduated College - 37.50% Some Graduate School - 8.33% Completed Graduate School - 18.06% POLITICAL AFFILIATION Republican- 5.26% Democrat - 50.53% Independent - 25.26% Something Else - 18.95%
About Black Westchester: BlackWestchester.com is a magazine (website) and print newspaper for people of color for Westchester and the Tri-State area of New York at every economic level. Black Westchester is committed to being a platform to profile life, culture, economics, politics, sports and entertainment and those who are representing vision in these marketplaces and who can both encourage and provide role models to other men and women. Black Westchester, through its online magazine, print newspaper, weekly talk radio show, and editorial content, will be a vessel of community information throughout Westchester and the Tri-State area of New York. Our mission is to promote the concept of “community” through media. The Black Westchester Newspaper is a monthly newspaper, 10,000 distributed monthly throughout Westchester and Surrounding areas with a heavy concentration in Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, Yonkers, Elmsford, White Plains, Greenburgh, Peekskill, Tarrytown, NE Bronx, Harlem, Stamford, CT with a slightly smaller presence elsewhere in the county and surrounding areas. Black Westchester is the best vehicle to reach communities of color throughout the county, but not limited to just communities of color, we have a large non-African-American readership as well. Black Westchester and the People Before Politics Radio Show started in July and August of 2014 respectively and the print edition started on our three year anniversary in August 2017. In such a small amount of time, Black Westchester has heavily influenced the county, public policy, and the elected officials while informing the public in a way that was missing, filling a necessary void.
Larger news outlets such as The Journal News (Lohud), News 12 Westchester and Fios1 News, The New York Post, ABC News and others also follow us and have quoted us for breaking stories that they, in turn, did follow up stories on. Black Westchester is the voice of the voiceless and has covered many stories that other news outlets often overlooked and in turn followed our lead and reported later. Black Enterprise Magazine reported, “Black buying power currently stands at over $1.1 Trillion dollars annually and is on the road to hit about $1.5 Trillion by 2021. These figures have also been documented by the Huffington Post, The Atlantic, MediaPost.com, Fortune Magazine, and many other respected media outlets. This collective buying power means that nearly $2 Trillion dollars will be flowing through Black American annually very soon, making us a centerpiece for various researchers, marketers, advertisers and other campaigns designed to influence black spending patterns. With that said, for businesses who do business and want to do business with communities of color in the Westchester County and surrounding areas, advertising with Black Westchester, not only makes dollars but also makes perfect sense. We are the voice of the Black Community. Sponsorship and advertising are also available in our weekly talk radio show, People Before Politics Radio, where we have been bringing you Real Talk For The Community since 2014.
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20 BLACK WESTCHESTER
BW’S LATINO EMPOWERMENT
21 QUESTIONS
WITH JONATHAN CAMPOZANO BY LORRAINE LOPEZ AND AP REPORTER REHAN SABRI
1. What’s your name? Jonathan Campozano
2. What municipality in Westchester County do you reside in? Hartsdale, which is located in the town of Greenburgh 3. Tell us a little bit about yourself. I was born in White Plains and raised in Greenburgh. I graduated from Woodlands High School, Westchester Community College, Purchase College, and Pace Law School. You can tell that I love Westchester. I’m a first generation immigrant from Ecuador and Puerto Rico. I take great pride in my Hispanic heritage and have a profound appreciation for the various challenges we face. It’s what motivated me to become an immigration attorney. 4. What are some hobbies that you do for fun? Before quarantine, I would go to the movies every weekend. Quarantine has really pushed everyone to explore the outdoors. Since then, I have been searching for places to hike almost every weekend.
Puerto Rican so it was exciting to read a book by an author with a similar background. It focuses on the Latinx experience in Spanish Harlem during the 1960s. 11. Earlier you mentioned you practice immigration law. Could you describe your experiences as an immigration attorney? There are many I could get into, but the most impactful experience was when I volunteered with the CARA Pro Bono Project (“CARA”) in Dilley, Texas. CARA provides legal services to detained women and children who were caught crossing the MexicoU.S. border. These women and children are fleeing violence, yet are detained as if they were the criminals. It’s inhumane. There is little to no medical care at the detention center. I volunteered in 2016, 2017, 2018, and cannot imagine how horrible the conditions must be today.
12. Do you still practice immigration law? I don’t. It was hard leaving an area of law I continue to feel so passionate about, but an opportunity presented itself and I couldn’t pass it up. 5. What is your favorite latino dish In 2019, I joined the recently elected New York State Senate Democratic and dessert? This is a tough one. I will have to go Majority as Associate Counsel where with rabo con arroz blanco y habi- I had the privilege to work on significhuela roja (oxtail with white rice and cant pieces of legislation including red beans). Favorite dessert is easy - the Farm Laborers Fair Practices Act torta de tres leches (tres leches cake). and the Driver’s License Access and Privacy Act (Green Light NY). Today, 6. Best concert that you have ever I work for the County Attorney’s Office in the Appeals, Opinions, and been to? Has to be Bad Bunny’s x100pre tour. Legislation Bureau. I saw him in New Jersey last year and it was an amazing show. Everyone 13. Tell us about the organizations you’re affiliated with. stood the entire time! There are quite a few! I do my best to pay it forward. To highlight some, 7. Daddy Yankee or Bad Bunny? Wow. I definitely feel like you set me I am currently the Secretary for the up for this one. I have to go with Daddy Hispanic Democrats of Westchester Yankee. While x100pre by Bad Bunny and Chairman of Latino U College is my second favorite album ever, I Access’ Emerging Leaders Board. have to respect Daddy Yankee’s lon- More recently, I was elected as Vice gevity, releasing hit after hit. He put Chair for the Westchester County Democratic Committee! reggaeton on the map. 8. Bad Bunny’s x100pre is your second favorite album ever. Which is your favorite album ever? This may be unexpected, but Usher’s Confessions album is my favorite ever. There isn’t one song you would skip on that album. 9. Soccer or Baseball? This is the internal struggle of being half Ecuadorian and half Puerto Rican, but I have a clear favorite which is soccer. Go NYCFC! 10. What is your favorite book that you have ever read? Bodega Dreams by Ernesto Quinonez. He’s also half Ecuadorian and
14. Do you find it important to be politically involved? Absolutely. Unfortunately, many decisions that affect the general population are influenced or motivated by politics. It’s important we not only get involved, but push towards being included in the decision making process. Too many times the interests of the Hispanic community are ignored because there is no one at the table to express our interests. This connects to a deeper issue which is the lack of Hispanic representation among our elected officials in Westchester and beyond. 15. What are your thoughts on
OCTOBER 15, 2020
Black Westchester’s Latino Empowerment page is doing a series called 21 Questions with a Latino Leader where we’ll be highlighting several Latino leaders and the extraordinary work they do in the Latino and overall community. Usually, an unsung (s)hero. Our second introduction to you is Jonathan Campozano, a County Attorney in the Appeals, Opinions, and Legislation Bureau. He also wears several hats including as newly elected Vice-Chair of the Westchester County Democratic Committee. We’re also having guest Latino co-reporters as well. Our next co-reporter for this series is AP reporter Rehan Sabri. If you would like to nominate an unsung (s)hero or will like to be a co-reporter, please contact me at Lorrainelopez700@gmail.com, Facebook, call or text me at (914) 223-3191 Pa’ lante, mi gente!!! Lorraine Lopez absentee voting this upcoming election? If you don’t feel comfortable voting in person, you should definitely feel confident about requesting an absentee ballot. The sooner you request it, the better! The deadline to request an absentee ballot in New York is October 27. Remember, in New York we have the option to vote early as well! Early voting starts on October 24, and runs until November 1. 16. Do you feel either party has adequately reached out to Latinos to secure their vote in November? While there is no question that I will be voting for Joe Biden in the upcoming election, moving forward I hope we, the Democratic Party, can expand the public’s idea of what issues concern the Hispanic community. Yes, immigration is a significant issue for us and needs to be addressed beyond repeatedly expressing the need for “comprehensive immigration reform.” That aside, Hispanics care about many other issues including property and school taxes, access to healthcare, civil rights, education, and much more. 17. Do you believe Black Lives Matter? Absolutely. To support Black Lives Matter and its significance does not mean that the lives of others matter any more or less than Black lives. Recent events including the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Aubery, Breonna Taylor, and unfortunately many more have amplified the suffering within the Black community. As a white-passing Latino male, I have lived my life with certain privileges not afforded to Black people based on skin color. To not support Black Lives Matter and turning a blind eye would be from a position of privilege which I will not do. 18. You mentioned a lack of Hispanic representation among elected officials. Why is that important to you? Take a look at Westchester County. According to the last census in 2010, Hispanic individuals make up 25% of the County’s population, which I’m sure has increased since then. Yet, of our 13 current State Senate and Assembly representatives, not one is Hispanic and only three are Black. I understand that the political world can appear uninteresting to some or discouraging to others, but it’s critical we increase political participation throughout our communities. Now more than ever, we not only need our voices to be heard, but our needs to be met. 19. What motivates you to remain involved in politics? I hope to one day run for elected office. For many years, while in college, law school, and beyond, I have done my best to serve as a resource to my community. Whether it’s showing up at a rally or protest, or providing legal information, I seek to help however possible. There is a greater responsibility and platform for elected officials. We expect them to be visible within their community, regardless of the political capital to be gained. It’s a commitment that I hope to one day have
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the privilege to make and continue to serve as a resource to my community on a larger scale. 20. What were some of the toughest challenges you faced growing up? I can’t complain. My parents provided me with the best life possible growing up. I’d say perhaps a challenge for them was affordable childcare. For a period of time, my parents each worked two jobs, one of which was delivering newspapers which required them to start working around 4 or 5 AM. There was no one to take care of me so I would have to ride along with them every day. I also remember during a few summers as a child, my father drove a school bus for summer camps. At that time, I didn’t know that my parents couldn’t afford to send me to summer camp, but it killed me not being able to go. As I look back, spending those summer days with my dad are memories I cherish the most. I’ll always remember him telling me that even though I couldn’t go to summer camp that I was at “Camp-Ozano.” 21. On a personal and fun note, if you were a superhero, who would you be and why? Batman. He isn’t a metahuman, but his tactical skills are ridiculous. Also, who wouldn’t want to drive the batmobile?
Rehan Sabri is an AP Reporter that hails from White Plains, NY. He likes to do it all: produce, write, report, and tell stories in front of a camera or on a column in your favorite newspaper. Rehan reports, unapologetically, on everything that is happening in the world of sports, politics and entertainment. He is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ). Twitter: @RehanSabri09 Instagram: @reysabri_tv Website: rehansabri.wordpress.com
OCTOBER 15, 2020
MORE BW NEWS
BLACK WESTCHESTER
21
N------ LIVES DON’T MATTER
FOUND WRITTEN IN FRONT OF OSSINING HIGH SCHOOL BY AJ WOODSON OSSINING — In the height to the Black Lives Matter movement, the words “N----- lives don’t matter” were found written across the pavement on Emwilton Place, in front of Ossining High School and Town Supervisor Dana Levenberg’s home, Friday, October 9th. “The message appears directed at a particular home, but it is also directly across from Ossining High School,” Ossining Police Department said on Twitter along with a purposefully blurred photo of what was written., police said. Police received a call about the words “N—- lives don’t matter!” scrawled on the roadway and a witness reported seeing a white male with a thin build, wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and a mask, around 6:15 a.m. holding chalk and writing something. “We’re checking cameras from the area and will continue investigating until we determine the truth,” Ossining Police posted on Facebook. “We’ve said before and will say again, hate is not welcome here. Our police department and our community will not tolerate criminal acts aimed at intimidating, instilling fear, or terrorizing our neighbors.”
The incident caught the attention of State Senator David Carlucci, who condemned the act. “The racial slur found in front of Town Supervisor Dana Levenberg’s home and Ossining High School was a disgusting act, appearing to incite fear,” Carlucci who represents most of Rockland County and parts of Westchester County in the 38th NYS Senate District, wrote in statement emailed to Black Westchester. “Racism and hate are cancers perpetuated by intolerant and emboldened individuals. I am saddened this happened in our community where Town Supervisor Levenberg uses her voice to bring people of all backgrounds together. I encourage anyone with information to come forward and speak with police,” the statement continued. Ossining Town Supervisor who said she was distubred and horrified expressed she understands it is nothing compared to how it felt to the AfricanAmerican community. “As much as I was disturbed and horrified by this hateful language in front of my home, it’s nothing compared to the atrocities black people have suffered and continue to suffer at the hands of white people,” Levenberg shared with Black Westchester. “I will not stop sharing love instead of hate and remaining committed to upend racism in our world.” We reached out to get a feel of how this act of racism was recieved by the African-American community in Ossining. Bishop Joan Whittaker, Sr. Pastor of the House of Refuge Apostolic Church (HORAC Ministries) feels while time has come for change, she also looks at this situation as new evidence of systematic racism and feels it could be used to foster such change. “The perpetrators have provided us with new evidence that systemic racism is alive in Ossining,” share Bishop Whittaker who is often described as a world changer because of the positive impact she has had on individuals and the community. “This evidence will be used to foster a United Ossining. Our community will now work together to bring about reform that will eradicate systemic racism and prove that America has the template to create a world where the color of our skin does not matter. The time has come for change. We are positioned now to recreate our current world and leave a legacy of equality and justice for all. That includes our community of Ossining.” Unfortunately racist acts are not new to Black People, Local Activist Diana Lemon says, people aren’t outraged anymore, everyone is just densenitized. “Moments like this aren’t shocking for Black people. We’re desensitized to grotesques exhibitions of white supremacy,” Lemon, CEO of The Black Agenda LLC shared with Black Westchester. “Incidents like this is where everyone should sit in their discomfort and do something about it everyday in everything they do. For those in leadership, as you work, if you truly are about dismantling systemic racism, every decision you make ask yourself how will this effect Black people. Dismantling requires to it happen beyond the news cycle.” Kemi Pogue, an Ossining Community Leader said more then the obvious racism behind the act, she was equally disturbed the perpetrator felt so comfortable writing the N-word in 2020, that alone needs to be addressed. “Our Ossining community will not stand for racism! The fact that someone felt so comfortable to target and write this in front of someone’s house is very disturbing,” Kemi Pogue who is the Ossining C.A.P. Director of the Westchester Community Opportunity Program, Inc., (WestCOP), shared with Black Westchester. “Another reason it bothers me is because it seems like it’s the accepted way of calling somebody the N-word nowadays. This has to be addressed with consequences.” This is not the first time the village of Ossining has stepped up and condemned the use of the N-Word. As part of an increasing effort to rid the Hudson Valley of a racial slur, more than 100 Ossining High School students joined the student group Project Earthquake at a rally to ban the N word, October 26, 2007. Project Earthquake members wore shirts declaring “Ban the N word,” while other students danced and had a good time at the rally with a message. The group’s effort to ban the racial slur started earlier in the year when it held a lecture and presentation at the school. “You can’t go to class and use the F word or say another curse, so why can you go to class and use the N word? It’s not acceptable,” said Damien Gillespe, president of Project Earthquake. The students’ efforts follow recent political movements to achieve the same goal. On Monday, February, 12, 2007 Legislator Clinton Young sponsored a bill, which passed unanimously, symbolically banning the slur. In April 2007, the MidHudson chapter of the NAACP held a symbolic burial for the word in Rockland County.
In Westchester where many claim racism doesn’t exist, examples of hate and racism have sparked thoughout the county, In Ossining they have been facing and fighting racism of all kinds. In November 2019, Ossining had an incident that occurred at the high school where a swastika and the n-word were crudely scrawled on a bathroom wall, leaving the community scratching their collective heads to figure out what can they do to prevent future acts of anti-semitism and racism? “This department and this community will never stand for hate, intimidation, or an attempt to instill fear in our neighbors. We will always be here to protect our community and ensure that everyone has an opportunity to live with a sense of safety and security,” Ossining Police posted on Twitter at 11:38 AM, Friday morning. Ossining Police Chief Kevin Sylvester retweeted adding: “Hate will never have a home in Ossining.” Black Westchester is told that detectives are investigating which includes a canvas of the area for any surveillance or Ring cameras that may have captured the suspect. If you saw something or have information call 914-941-4099 and ask for detectives.
UPDATE FROM LEG TUBIOLO ABOUT COVID-19 On page 7 we reported that Legislator David Tubiolo tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, October 8. Sunday, October 11th, the night before going to press we recieved an update from Leg. Tubiolo along with a message to residents to take COVID-19 seriously, take every precaution and follow the protocol if you do catch it to protect others:
Thank you to everyone for the overwhelming support and care you’ve expressed upon hearing the the news that I had received a positive test result for COVID-19. In two recent tests, I’ve tested negative. Also, thankfully, family, friends, staff and colleagues, who were in contact with me during period have received negative test results. I’m grateful to County Executive George Latimer, BOL Chairman Ben Boykin and Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard for taking quick decisive action. I know that postponing the State of the County and State of the City addresses were difficult but prudent decisions. Their actions, together with those of Chariman Boykin to put procedures in place for the BOL to meet safely last March and this week to quickly test everyone who was in contact with me, and to close and clean Board offices, show the kind of leadership we have in Westchester -- focused on the health and safety of the people, fully committed to the science and best practices for containment. Leaders lead and ours led us to safety. I’m still self-isolating and have been working with the Health Department daily to trace everyone I was in contact with over the period I may have been contagious. I’ve been making calls, explaining to people the history of this event and strongly encouraging them to take tests. I’m still going through pictures, videos, phone calls and text messages to remember who I was in contact with. Please if someone remembers being in contact with me and I didn’t reach out to you, contact me privately. Please use me as an example -- I had one symptom briefly, which went away within a couple of days, and didn’t realize anything else. But because I was tested, and because of the great contact tracing work of our Health Department, it appears that we may have been able to stop potential spread. Masks work. Social distancing works. Testing works. Contact tracing works. Please go and get tested if you have any suspicion about your own health. Remain aware of possible symptoms. Avoid risky behavior. Wear your masks. Don’t be a spreader. This virus is not only real, it’s active. I’m very lucky, unfortunately there have been many others who weren’t so lucky -- including more than 1,400 Westchester residents among the more than 214,000 Americans we have lost to this horrific virus.
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22 BLACK WESTCHESTER
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
OCTOBER 15, 2020
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE- A GROWING ISSUE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY
BY DAMON K. JONES
In October, many change the color of their newspapers and websites pink, wear pink ribbons, do walks and rallies etc to raise awareness for Breast Cancer, but often what gets overshadowed is, October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. And while we too changed our colors pink and support Breast Cancer Awareness, domestic violence has to be addressed because it is a growing issue nationwide, but especially in the black community. Since many do not know October is also Domestic Violence Awareness month, lets start of with a little history about it. Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the first Day of Unity observed in October, 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect battered women’s advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. The Day of Unity soon became a special week when a range of activities were conducted at the local, state, and national levels. In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed. That same year the first national toll-free hotline was begun. In 1989 the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month Commemorative Legislation was passed by the U.S. Congress. Such legislation has passed every year since with NCADV providing key leadership in this effort. For more information on the NCADV check their website, NCADV.org. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233 | 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) Black Westchester re-posts an article on Domestic Violence, previously written our publisher in observation of Domestic Violence Awareness Month! Our Political leaders, Law Enforcement Management and Community Leaders need to focus resources on Domestic Violence cases and prevention. Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior in any relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Abuse is physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure, or wound someone.
Domestic violence does not discriminate. It happens to individuals, male or female, of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion, educational level, or socioeconomic background. It can happen to couples who are married, living together, who are dating and it can happen to children. An intimate partner annually in the United States physically assaults approximately 1.3 million women and 835,000 men. A majority of studies reveal there are adult and child victims in 30 to 60 percent of families experiencing domestic violence. While the media generally focuses on high incarceration rates, the education attainment gap, and violent crime in black communities, it is unfortunate that domestic violence has rarely been discussed in the black community, until recently.
It is a disservice to our community to only discuss the issue of domestic violence only on a certain month of the year or when an incident like Ray Rice or Chris Brown takes national attention. Domestic violence is not only as much of a problem in the black community as it is across the nation, but it’s a bigger problem, more frequent and more lethal in than any other community. Continuous dialogue and prevention should be ongoing to confront this unpublicized cancer in our community.
Black men are also affected. The same 2000 study found that Black males experienced intimate partner violence at a rate about 62% higher than that of white males and about 22 times the rate of men of other races. Black men are also more likely than white men to be killed by their partners, though at a lower rate than black women. In 2005, black women were 2.4 times more likely than a black male to be murdered by their partners. In 2002, the number one killer of African-American women ages 15 to 34 was homicide at the hands of a current or former intimate partner. Surviving in an abusive relationship of ANY kind is puzzlement to people on the outside, but there are specific reasons why someone ‘allows’ this or cannot find a way out. The first step is for the person involved in an abusive relationship on any level to see the pattern and want to change it. Relationship Experts say that Low Self Esteem, Denial, Financial Dependency, the Children, and Church Values are reasons why someone in an abusive relationship will stay in the relationship. Until the victim recognizes that the cycle needs to be broken, there is only support that can be given but the ultimate change has to come from within the abused person. The person who suffers abuse must take charge and decide to break the pattern or the pattern will continue. We all can assist victims of Domestic Violence victims no matter what color, race or economic status they are. There is no way to tell for sure if someone is experiencing domestic violence. Those who are battered, and those who abuse, come in all personality types. The victims are not always passive with low self-esteem, and batterers are not always violent or hateful to their partner in front of others. Most people experiencing relationship violence do not tell others what goes on at home. Domestic violence often starts with threats, name-calling, and slamming doors or breaking dishes and it builds up to pushing, slapping, and other violent acts. If you feel that you’re a victim of Domestic violence call 911 and report the incident. Write down the police report/incident number and keep with your records. If necessary, seek medical attention. Have injuries documented and photographed. Go to a safe place such as a domestic violence shelter or a family member’s home. Seek the support of caring people. Tell someone you trust about the abuse. They may be your friend, a family member, a neighbor, a co-worker, or staff members of support agencies. Talk to them in a private, safe place. You do not need to face abuse alone. File for a Protective Order that will tell your abuser to stay away. When you decide to get help, find a support system that works for you. A trusted friend, family member, or professional can help you devise a safety plan and find a safe place for you to stay, if necessary. If you are a victim of abuse, you are not alone. You have the right to be safe! You are not responsible for violent behavior! No one deserves to be beaten or threatened! Domestic violence destroys the home. The responsibility for the violence belongs to the abuser. It is not the victim’s fault! We must all demonstrate a clear recognition that domestic violence exists on an incomprehensible level that is completely unacceptable. There must be a desire to confront this issue and enact laws that deter abusers and support victims. As a national organization of law enforcement professionals, we demand harder sentencing and laws against these abusers. Unless and until we all make this commitment— we will continue to read and hear about the tragedies of domestic violence in the communities of Westchester. Police Commissioner William J. Bratton presided over the 13th annual Domestic Violence Training Conference Tuesday in the auditorium at One Police Plaza. The conference brought together members of the Department as well we outside collaborators to review new statutes related to domestic violence; discuss ways to investigate domestic violence related crimes such as stalking, aggravated harassment and orders of protection; and it provided an opportunity for police personnel to network with each other and those agencies and organizations dedicated to combating domestic violence. We need to have this in Westchester County and every urban neighborhood nationwide. We need to call our elected officials to ensure they implement training in our police departments and then stay on our police commissioners to make sure this isn’t just another formality or something to do to say they did it but truly becomes part of police policy.
Why are their higher rates in the black community? In part, the same old reasons: poverty (intimate partner violence is more frequent among those with lower incomes); un-and-underemployment (it’s more frequent when the male partner is unemployed/underemployed); and housing disparities (it’s more common in couples living in poor neighborhoods). In 2005, African-Americans accounted for nearly a third of the intimatepartner homicides. There have only been few studies that have addressed the issue of domestic violence in the black community. A study published in 2000 reported that Black females experienced intimate partner violence at a rate 35% higher than that of white females, and about 22 times the rate of women of other races. In 2005, black women accounted for 22% of the intimate partner For more information on the NCADV check their website, NCADV.org. The homicide victims and 29% of all female victims of intimate partner homicide. National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233 | 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)
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OCTOBER 15, 2020
BLACK WESTCHESTER - MOUNT VERNON
BLACK WESTCHESTER 23
WHY NOTHING GETS DONE IN MOUNT VERNON
BY ANDRÉ WALLACE
When it comes to politicians and city government officials, it would not be unfair to classify some as probably insane, some others as probably incompetent, and a few of them as too new to tell just yet. Unfortunately, for a place like Mount Vernon, those folks are not really the problem.
unchallenged. They’ve got no one else to blame. I know it feels uncomfortable and frustrating, but the first step to fixing a problem is admitting you have one. As a lifelong Democrat from a family of Democrats, it pains me to say this, but if we want to move forward, we have to acknowledge some uncomfortable truths.
As Chuck D. of Public Enemy once said, “It’s weak to speak and blame somebody else when you destroy The real problem group in government are the yourself.” Mount Vernon! Welcome to the Terror-dome. do-nothing seat-fillers who expect to assume the mantle of leadership without actually making any Finally, we need to recognize that the people of this City are the BOSS. When meaningful contribution to Mount Vernon. They’re an employee fails to perform their job, the BOSS gets rid of them. When he or happy to collect their check and medical benefits, of she finds out an employee has been stealing from them, the BOSS sends them And when it turns out the employee never had any intention of course. But they’re not prepared to stick their neck packing. working in the first place, the BOSS shows them the door. out to help the people of this City even a little bit. They are worthless wastes of space and, for some reason, they keep getting nominated and they keep getting re-elected. If we want to know why problems persist in Mount Vernon for so long - sometimes decades - we have to really focus on the root causes.
Your City Council has failed you. Your City Government has failed you. As the BOSS, what do you plan to do about it? If you have thoughts or comments about this issue or any other, reach out to me at ADWCMV@gmail.com.
We have to ask ourselves why the people we elect to run this City are so bad at actually running it? It’s not laziness, necessarily. Laziness doesn’t get you out of bed in the morning. These folks show up to work at City Hall. They just don’t do anything when they get there. It’s not stupidity, either. Stupidity involves making bad decisions because you don’t know any better - like grabbing a hot pan from the oven. In order to make a stupid decision, you have to at least make a decision. These so-called “leaders” cannot be bothered to even make stupid decisions. They know that if they make decisions, they will be criticized, and they might actually lose their cushy spot in City Hall. Department heads, custodians, City Council members, and Mayors alike, they just do nothing instead, hoping someone else will solve their problems. I’m quite positive it came as a shock to many if not every member of the City Council in Mount Vernon when NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli said in his scathing Mount Vernon report last week that the “Council is responsible for providing general managerial oversight of city operations” and “to plan for the future by setting long-term priorities and goals” and “to develop or adopt comprehensive written multiyear financial and capital plans.” Why did that come as a shock to them? Simple. They don’t want to do anything. Not those things. Not anything. We are talking about a body that likes to issue resolutions but doesn’t like to actually make decisions. Decisions by the City Council are embodied in legislation. When I was in the City Council, the people wanted the parking rules changed, so I drafted and got passed legislation that created common sense rules, eased morning congestion, and stopped the ticket blitz. When I was Mayor, I implemented that legislation. I bring up this example because about the only thing the City Council has done in 2020 is to repeal those common-sense rules and re-start the ticket-writing bonanza. Why? Pettiness and jealousy. I was making them look bad by getting things done. No other reason. Want to know why there’s no Starbucks in Mount Vernon? Same reason. How can a City Council that issues no legislation, provides no leadership, defers to the Mayor at every turn, and hates to stick its neck out over anything be responsible for managing this City? It can’t. So, feel free to blame the Comptroller if you want, but the real villain in the DiNapoli report was the ineffective, inefficient, and do-nothing City Council. So, having identified a problem, let’s focus on solutions.
First, it’s up to us. We’ve got to throw the bums out, as they used to say. All of them. The same disease at the core of police corruption in Mount Vernon infects City Hall also. Yuhanna Edwards and I co-sponsored and passed legislation creating the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), legislation - that would hold the police accountable - years ago. Was it implemented? Of course not; it was actually defunded by this current City Council. Why? Because it had my name on it. The People need to clean house and tell the world that we’re not going to stand for business-as-usual politicians who are more interested in saving themselves and lining their pockets than in running this City. Second, we need to stand up to the Democratic Party in Westchester that keeps nominating these same shiftless “leaders.” Lodging all power in a single party, as Mark Twain used to say, is the best way to ensure bad government.
Don’t like the way this town runs? Blame a Democrat. Don’t like how Mount Vernon lags behind every other city in Westchester? Blame a Democrat. Want to know why your children are not using Memorial Field or getting the education they deserve? Blame a Democrat. Curious as to why the Federal government is fining and suing this City over discharging waste into our rivers? You got it, blame a Democrat!
Written by former acting Mayor André Wallace of the City of Mount Vernon. Wallace who was City Council President ran the city after Mayor Richard Thomas was forced out of office after he plead guilty last year to misusing campaign funds. Wallace would go on to lose to current Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard.
LAUREN P. RAYSOR PRESENTS PRELIMINARY FINDINGS ON CALL FOR REFORM OF THE MOUNT VERNON POLICE DEPARTMENT
On September 29, 2020, attorney Lauren P. Raysor presented a report on behalf of the Mount Vernon Coalition for Police Reform to the Mayor of Mount Vernon and members of City Council and other elected officials. Ms. Raysor formed the Mount Vernon Coalition for Police Reform, a group of former police officers, civil rights attorneys and former City Officials and several others seeking ways to improve the practices of the Mount Vernon Police Department. The report pointed out that there is a lack of trust in the police department. Citizens refuse to cooperate with the police during investigations, which explains how the city has the highest rate of unsolved homicides in Westchester County. In its report, the Coalition made the following recommendations: the formation of a Civilian Complaint Review Board; requiring police officers to become more involved in the community, including living in the city where they work; statistical tracking of misconduct by officers based on race and gender; use of body and dashboard cameras; elimination of chokeholds, no-knock warrants and stop and frisk; review of police guidelines to ensure new rules and new compliance; more anti-bias and de-escalation training, including training to combat racial profiling; and using money from the police budget to pay out settlements from police misconduct lawsuits. The Coalition also urges police officers to report a fellow officer who is engaged in a criminal act. Failure to do so would result in arrest. Citizens who use their cell phones to record instances of police misconduct would be provided whistleblower protection. “In combating the systemic problems that are plaguing this police department, we are introducing some recommendations that are long overdue,” Ms. Raysor said. “I strongly urge the city council and the Mayor of Mount Vernon to review our findings and seriously consider implementing our recommendations. You can download report at https://laurenpraysor.com/wp-content/ uploads/2020/10/Mt-Vernon-Police-Reform-Report.pdf For more information, call (914) 733-8080 or visit www.laurenpraysor.com. Lauren P. Raysor is an attorney concentrating in personal injury, civil rights, bankruptcy, matrimonial and family law. She has litigated numerous cases over the years, taking more than 35 cases to verdict and has argued before the Appellate Division in the case of Makeda Barnes Joseph v. Universal Music Group. She served as Corporation Counsel for the City of Mount Vernon, where she was in charge of the city’s Law Department. Ms. Raysor is currently outside counsel for the New York State Dormitory Authority, and served as the Assistant Attorney General in charge of the Upper Manhattan Region, outside counsel to the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone and counsel at a Wall Street law firm.
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24 BLACK WESTCHESTER
FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK
OCTOBER 15, 2020
THE JANUS RULING IS CONCRETE PROOF WHY LAW ENFORCEMENT UNIONS VOTE AGAINST THEIR INTEREST
BY DAMON K. JONES
T
he existence of a healthy and politically respected union is fundamental to workplace Peace, Health and Order. Decisions made in collective bargaining and negotiations between employer and unions are more influential today than ever before. The role of union leadership is to play an essential role in efficient communication between its members and the municipality. But in the last decade or so, law enforcement unions have lost their way in the fundamental function and culture of labor unions by confusing political philosophies with the overall mission of a labor union and the interest of its members. Law Enforcement unions and Fraternal organizations have historically voted against their interest even after candidates made known publicly that their political agenda was against the fiber of labor and labor rights. Historically, the Republican Party has always supported law enforcement, so they thought. For the last 40 Years, Republicans have quietly plotted to lower union enrollment and attack Collective Bargaining rights. To destroy collective bargaining is to kill the right of a union member to any resolution of a labor dispute. For workers like police and firefighters, failure to resolve conflicts is hazardous; it could put an officer in harm’s way and a threat to the overall public safety of our communities. The Republican goal is to eliminate collective bargaining weaken unions and ultimately undermine the middle class. In 2011, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and state Republicans passed Act 10, which reduced collective bargaining and cut the pay of public sector employees. Gov. Walker set the blueprint for Republicans to dismantle the power of labor unions on a National stage. In Iowa, cops and firefighters voted overwhelmingly for Republicans in Iowa and had come to the grim reality that Republicans are anti-union. Iowa Republican state legislation splits public workers into two groups, one that’s “public safety workers,” and one that isn’t. The Iowa Republican Bill even removed the provisions for “just cause” firings. This means public workers could get the fired at any time, with no recourse of action to save their job. The Iowa State Republicans voted and passed a bill that dismantled the state’s 40-year-old collective bargaining law, dramatically weakening the power of public sector labor unions and leaving some 185,000 public workers unable to bargain over benefits, healthcare, vacations, retirement, and nearly all workplace issues outside of wages. The two terms of former Westchester County Executive, Robert Astorino, he made good on his promise to Corporate Westchester by lowering salaries and benefits of county workers. These same county workers whom many can’t even afford to live in the county they work for had their wages benefits lowered all for tax breaks to Corporate Westchester. Mr. Astorino wrote in an Op-Ed printed by the New York Post on January 16, 2012, and in the Journal News on January 30, 2012, to take on the task of criticizing Governor Andrew Cuomo and other legislative leaders for not pursuing any reform in 2018 concerning the Triborough Amendment. The Triborough Amendment mandates that event of lack of a contract, the terms of the previous contract remain in place until a new contract is agreed upon by labor and management or the government municipality. Mr. Astorino uses this to support his theory that the Triborough Amendment has put a burden on county finances because raises continue after the labor contract expired which is false. Astorino’s Administration’s goal was to break unions contractually. The first contract he passed with Westchester Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association (COBA), enables the first crack in setting the standard for broken unions in Westchester. The Westchester COBA leadership agreed to separate healthcare cost of hires after 2012. The hires would pay six percent more in premium contributions, a total of 20 percent and pay the same when retired, while those officers employed before 2012 would pay 14 percent and not pay at all when retired. They also agreed to lower the top pay of all hires after 2012. Astorino last accomplishment in true Gov. Scott Walker fashion that he split one union in two contractually by giving one group of active members a higher raise than the other. Correction Officers had settled for a two-tier raise system contractually that set a dangerous precedent for labor unions all across the state of New York. Former County Executive Robert Astorino within eight years he contractually broke one of the largest law enforcement unions in Westchester County. Even after many union rights and salaries lost, Astorino’s public attack on the Triborough Amendment. County Law Enforcement Unions stood faithfully with Astorino in the 2017 election against current County Executive George Latimer. National Law Enforcement organizations like the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and local police unions have stood behind Donald Trump for the election to be President. His claim to be a “Law and Order” President as it relates to rights and benefits to law Enforcement is only Republican rhetoric, and Blue Lives symbolism and no substance in actual legislation to protect the rights and interests of law enforcement throughout the nation. The Trump administration is a strong supporter of what’s called “rightto-work” laws, state laws that disallow unions from requiring membership dues, thus undermining their ability to survive with no financing. With these laws in place, the public sector worker will have no voice in the workplace. This is a
severe threat to union members and non-union workers alike. President Trump signed executive orders in 2018 containing sweeping reforms that weaken protections for federal workers and eliminate perks for the unions that represent them. Under these executive orders, unions will be charged rent for federal office space and will not be reimbursed for travel expenses or hours spent appealing worker firings. Trump also ordered the termination of an Obama-era policy that says leniency for one worker sets a precedent protecting others from firing, and shortened review periods preceding discipline for poor-performing employees. In a case involving the rights of tens of millions of private sector employees, the U.S. Supreme Court, by a 5-4 vote, delivered a major blow to workers, ruling for the first time that workers may not band together to challenge violations of federal labor laws. Writing for the majority, Justice Neil Gorsuch, who is a Trump appointee to the Supreme Court said that the 1925 Federal Arbitration Act or FAA trumps the National Labor Relations Act (“NLRA”) of 1935 and that employees who sign employment agreements to arbitrate claims must do so on an individual basis — and may not band together to enforce claims of wage and hour violations. This ruling with present increasing problems for other civil rights class actions claiming discrimination based on race, gender and religion. There is no transparency in most binding arbitration agreements, and they often include non-disclosure provisions. Class actions assist the individuals to deal with the fear of retaliation problems of solo claims. The recent 5-4 decision in the case, Janus v. the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Council 31, No. 16-1466, 585 U.S. —abbreviated Janus v. AFSCME, effectively makes the entire U.S. public sector a “right-to-work” zone. As a result, millions of public employees will have the choice to no longer support unions that must continue to bargain on their behalf. Janus, as the case is known, was widely seen as the biggest judicial threat to organized labor in years, if not decades. The ruling in favor of Mark Janus, an Illinois state employee, has the potential to squeeze some of the largest and most powerful unions in the country, reducing their clout in the workplace as well as in national and local politics. In many states, public workers, especially law enforcement are the backbone of middle-class living. According to conservative economist Stephen Moore, who advised Trump’s campaign on tax policy. He told Bloomberg Politics, “that going after state and local taxes will weaken public unions.” Republicans say they hope the change will mean lower state taxes and smaller governments. The removal of the state and local tax break could hurt the public sector. The bill is designed to weaken the Democratic constituency that work for local and state governments and that rely on taxpayers for jobs and pensions. But the reality is, it’s also weakening the majority Republican member law enforcement unions throughout the nation who rely on strong labor laws for the protection of workplace safety. To our detriment, Law Enforcement unions have never considered themselves labor union leaders that are part of the labor movement in its entirety, and now the chickens have come home to roost in our contract negotiations and our collective bargaining rights. If these law enforcement union presidents don’t step out of the box, realign themselves with the national labor movement and struggle and honestly address labor issues and support candidate that genuinely have labor interest in mind; they will have failed its members and the greater public and the working middle class. I openly challenge to any Law Enforcement union or organization that openly supported Republicans to prove me wrong!
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