Caribbean American Weekly-Issue 73 — DACA: It’s Over! What’s Next? by Caribbean American Weekly

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ISSUE 73 VOLUME 17

Hurricane Irma Pounds the Caribbean VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.CAWNYC.COM

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urricane Irma continues to churn its way through the Caribbean, leaving in its wake a trail of death and destruction that only started to become clear. At least 10 people have been reported dead. The Category 5 hurricane which was carrying maximum sustained winds near 185 miles per hour has devastated Barbuda – which Prime Minister Gaston Browne described as barely

CARICOM Urged to Fight Trump ...see page 14

continued on page 7

DACA: It’s Over! What’s Next? See The Immigrant’s Journal Inside

Obama Speaks: Trump’s Decision on DACA is Cruel & Wrong

ormer President Barack Obama said via Facebook that the Trump administration's decision to rescind a program Obama instituted to protect from deportation illegal immigrants who were brought to the United States as children was "cruel," "self-defeating" and "wrong." "Let's be clear: the action taken today isn't required legally," Obama said. "It's a political decision, and a moral question." Here’s the full statement: Immigration can be a controversial topic. We all want safe, secure borders and a dynamic economy, and people continued on page 3

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Diabetes Unlocked: A Conversation ...see page 12

Brian Figeroux, Esq. Member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association for 2 decades

ENDORSED! VOTE FOR THESE CANDIDATES ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2017

VOTE Pat Gatling for Brooklyn DA... see page 9

Dating Advice for Men ...see page 16

Thinking About a New Home? ...see page 18

Brian Cunningham for City Council ... see page 10

Caribbean Consulates

Anguilla 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0200

Antigua & Barbuda 305 East 47th Street, Suite 6A New York, N.Y. 10020 Tel: 212-541-4117 The Bahamas 231 East 46th Street New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-421-6420

Barbados 820 Second Avenue, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-551-4325 Belize 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1911 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-593-0999

Dominica 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400H New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-949-0853 Dominican Republic 1500 Broadway, Suite 410 New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-599-8478

Grenada 685 Third Avenue, Suite 1101 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-599-0301 Guyana 308 West 38th Street New York, N.Y. 10018 Tel: 212-947-5119

Haiti 815 Second Avenue,6th Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-697-9767 Jamaica 767 Third Avenue, 2nd Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-935-9000

Martinique 444 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-838-6887 Montserrat 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0200

Panama 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 20th Floor New York, N.Y. 10036 Tel: 212-840-2450 St. Kitts & Nevis 414 East 75th Street, 5th Floor New York, N.Y. 10021 Tel: 212-535-5521 St. Lucia 800 Second Avenue, 9th Floor New York, N.Y. 10007 Tel: 212-697-9360 St. Maarten 675 Third Avenue, Suite 1807 New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 800-786-2278

St. Vincent & The Grenadines 801 Second Avenue, 21st Floor New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-687-4981 Trinidad & Tobago 125 Maiden Lane, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10038 Tel: 212-682-7272

For more Consulate information go to www.cawnyc.com/directory

IN THE NEWS Jamaica’s Minister Lauded as Finance Minister of the Year for the Caribbean

INGSTON, Jamaica: Jamaica’s Finance and the Public Service Minister Audley Shaw, has been named Finance Minister of the Year for the Caribbean by the GlobalMarkets newspaper. Managing editor of the publication, Toby Fildes, noted that Shaw has an impressive roster of economic reforms that was started by the previous administration, which demonstrates Jamaica’s political stability. “You have kept a tight hand on government spending — fiscal surplus is very high — which will help whittle down government debt,” Fildes said in a letter

Minister Shaw

to the Minister. He added that Jamaica has been cited as a stand-out performer on its fiscal targets and the new Government is now targeting faster growth. “These measures are paying off. The Minister recently approached the market

Former T&T Attorney General Faces Court on Misbehavior

ORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad: Former attorney general Anand Ramlogan made his first court appearance on charges of misbehavior in public office and obstruction of justice, and emerged saying he looked forward to hearing his accusers being cross-examined on the witness stand when the trial finally begins. Ramlogan, who was arrested at his home and slapped with the charges, was not required to plea to the indictable offenses when he appeared before Magistrate Nanette Forde John. He remains on the same TT$750,000 (US$ 111,490) bail he was released on after being charged. The charges stem from claims by Police Complaint Authority (PCA) director David West that Ramlogan called him days before his appointment to the PCA and asked him to withdraw as a witness in a matter involving the then opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley.

Ramlogan has denied the allegation. And emerging from the Port of Spain Magistrates’ Court this morning after the case was adjourned to January 11 next year, he said he was looking forward to having the matter ventilated in court. “I anxiously await the day in court when the people that have made these spurious allegations will enter the witness box and subject themselves to the cross-examination that will prevail,” he said in a brief statement to reporters. “It has been a very harrowing and distressing experience to be subjected to the execution of a search warrant with such a large contingent of police officers at my home. My primary concern now is for my young children and my family and I intend to protect them and to ensure that this trial does not affect them.” Ramlogan added that he would also continue his law practice and would be back at work.l

Guyana Prison Escapee Killed in Shootout

EORGETOWN, Guyana: One of the prisoners who escaped during a fiery riot at Guyana’s main jail less than two months ago, was shot dead in a shootout with members of the joint services last night. Former police officer, 28-year-old Uree Varswyck, alias Malcolm Gordon, met his end during a joint services operation in Guyana’s second largest town, Linden, in the Upper Demerara-Berbice region around 11:45 p.m. Varswyck, who had been committed to stand trial for the 2014 murder of a security guard, was one of several prisoners who escaped during a fire at the Camp Street prison on July 9. Another one of the fugitives, multiple murder accused Mark Royden Durant, was spotted with Varswyck.

Police said that on approaching a house at Central Amelia’s Ward in which the two were hiding out, members of the joint services came under fire. They returned fire, and when the dust had settled, Varswyck, dressed in a military vest and boots, lay dead. A 9 mm pistol and 40 rounds of ammunition, as well as a bag containing a gas mask, medical supplies and toiletries, were recovered. Meanwhile, Durant, who was on death row for the murders of seven people in the February 17, 2008 Bartica massacre, escaped.l Read more news at www.cawnyc.com. Follow us on Facebook, @cawnyc

with a liability management exercise. In addition, the country’s ratings have been on the up since 2014, with Moody’s lifting the country to B3 in November,” he noted. Shaw said he felt honored to be named Finance Minister of the Year and looked forward to receiving the award in Washington DC, in October. At that time, the newspaper’s editorial committee cited Wynter’s admirable stewardship during difficult times in the international financial markets, acknowledging him as a “well respected figure, who has been stable and solid amid change of Government.”l

In Search of a Home: Haitians Seek Refuge In Canada

aitian national, Iancien Milien is among thousands of his countrymen forced to call the Montreal Stadium Home these days. He arrived there after walking into Canada at the Lacolle Border crossing after leaving the United States where he lived for 17 years. He does not want to return to his homeland. Countryman, Jean Dorméus is equally determined to build a new life anywhere but Haiti. Twenty-three-year-old Dorméus, the secretary-general of a political youth group in the northern city of Cap-Haïtien, has been living in Pennsylvania for the last six months, after he left Haiti because of death threats. He told the Montreal Gazette that his chances for asylum were slim and he fears deportation from the United States. “It’s not good for us there now,” he said. “It’s not safe in the U.S., and I can’t go back to Haiti.” Milien, Dorméus and hundreds more have abandoned their life in America amid fears that they could be deported as the Donald Trump administration ended their temporary protected status. Back in May, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced it would extend immigration protections for almost 60,000 Haitians living in the U.S. for six more months, but urged them to start preparing to return home.They have turned to Canada for help. Canadian immigration authorities say they are being overwhelmed by the refugees. PRAIDA, a government funded immigrant support program in Quebec, told the Montreal Gazette that it has received 1,200 new requests from refugees in July, almost four times the normal total. “It’s unheard-of,” PRAIDA leader Francine Dupuis said. “In 30 years, I’ve never seen this kind of volume or intensity.”l

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IN THE NEWS

Obama Speaks/continued from page 1

of goodwill can have legitimate disagreements about how to fix our immigration system so that everybody plays by the rules. But that’s not what the action that the White House took today is about. This is about young people who grew up in America — kids who study in our schools, young adults who are starting careers, patriots who pledge allegiance to our flag. These Dreamers are Americans in their hearts, in their minds, in every single way but one: on paper. They were brought to this country by their parents, sometimes even as infants. They may not know a country besides ours. They may not even know a language besides English. They often have no idea they’re undocumented until they apply for a job, or college, or a driver’s license. Over the years, politicians of both parties have worked together to write legislation that would have told these young people – our young people – that if your parents brought you here as a child, if you’ve been here a certain number of years, and if you’re willing to go to college or serve in our military, then you’ll get a chance to stay and earn your citizenship. And for years while I was President, I asked Congress to send me such a bill. That bill never came. And because it made no sense to expel talented, driven, patriotic young people from the only country they know solely because of the actions of their parents, my administration acted to lift the shadow of deportation from these young people, so that they could continue to contribute to our communities and our country.

We did so based on the well-established legal principle of prosecutorial discretion, deployed by Democratic and Republican presidents alike, because our immigration enforcement agencies have limited resources, and it makes sense to focus those resources on those who come illegally to this country to do us harm. Deportations of criminals went up. Some 800,000 young people stepped forward, met rigorous requirements, and went through background checks. And America grew stronger as a result. But today, that shadow has been cast over some of our best and brightest young people once again. To target these young people is wrong — because they have done nothing wrong. It is self-defeating — because they want to start new businesses, staff our labs, serve in our military, and otherwise contribute to the country we love. And it is cruel. What if our kid’s science teacher, or our friendly neighbor turns out to be a Dreamer? Where are we supposed to send her? To a country she doesn’t know or remember, with a language she may not even speak? Let’s be clear: the action taken today isn’t required legally. It’s a political decision, and a moral question. Whatever concerns or complaints Americans may have about immigration in general, we shouldn’t threaten the future of this group of young people who are here through no fault of their own, who pose no threat, who are not taking away anything from the rest of us. They are that pitcher on our kid’s softball team, that first responder who helps out his community after a disaster, that cadet in ROTC who wants nothing more than to

wear the uniform of the country that gave him a chance. Kicking them out won’t lower the unemployment rate, or lighten anyone’s taxes, or raise anybody’s wages. It is precisely because this action is contrary to our spirit, and to common sense, that business leaders, faith leaders, economists, and Americans of all political stripes called on the administration not to do what it did today. And now that the White House has shifted its responsibility for these young people to Congress, it’s up to Members of Congress to protect these young people and our future. I’m heartened by those who’ve suggested that they should. And I join my voice with the majority of Americans who hope they step up and do it with a sense of moral urgency that matches the urgency these young people feel. Ultimately, this is about basic decency. This is about whether we are a people who kick hopeful young strivers out of America, or whether we treat them the way we’d want our own kids to be treated. It’s about who we are as a people — and who we want to be. What makes us American is not a question of what we look like, or where our names come from, or the way we pray. What makes us American is our fidelity to a set of ideals — that all of us are created equal; that all of us deserve the chance to make of our lives what we will; that all of us share an obligation to stand up, speak out, and secure our most cherished values for the next generation. That’s how America has traveled this far. That’s how, if we keep at it, we will ultimately reach that more perfect union.l

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My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. —Hosea 4:6 Publisher I.Q. INC.

Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman

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CIVIL RIGHTS

Queens Residents Sue NYC Board of Elections After Removal of Polling Site

BY TATYANA BELLAMY-WALKER

esidents and community groups of LeFrak City are filing a lawsuit against the state Board of Elections (BOE) after the closure of their polling site, which locals say denies them the right to vote. In about a week, approximately 15,000 residents of LeFrak City, an affordable housing complex in Corona, Queens will be forced to travel nearly a mile-and-half to vote during the New York City Primaries on September 12. “There are over 20,000 residents in LeFrak City, Queens and a large percentage of these folks are minorities and many of them are elderly and or disabled,” said Bertha Lewis, President of the Black Leadership Action Coalition (BLAC). “The Board of Elections, in a discriminatory manner decided to shutdown the Continental Room and move out these voters to a different pole site.” For about 50 years, the complex’s Continental Room has served as a polling site for City elections; however, the BOE says the facility does not comply with federally mandated accessibility laws. In a press conference last week, an attorney in the Shabazz v. NYC BOE case waved a report alleging that they only need to

replace a “handrail.” In a public hearing on Aug.8, the BOE’s staff said they received a written complaint from LeFrak City residents in late July, however, they cannot make further adjustments because the room is not ADA compliant. “Wheelchair users cannot move freely and independently due to the amount of voting equipment,” said Executive Director of the BOE, Michael J. Ryan, at a public hearing on August 8. “Board staff spoke with LeFrak City’s landlord and upper management this past Monday

and they ensured full cooperation with the Board moving forward.” Ryan added, “The Commissioners stated that they want to work with LeFrak City to try and keep all voters within the LeFrak City complex.” The BOE moved the polling sites to two locations about a mile away, the suit alleges — the voting sites include the High School for Arts and Businesses and P.S. 13. “The decision to relocate the polling site was done without any input from the LeFrak City community nor any due

process for folks who been voting there for that long,” Lewis said. “All of our suggestions have been ignored [and] all of our pleas to try and corporate with the Board of Elections have been ignored.” Lewis continued, “You cannot use the American for Disabilities Act as an excuse to do voter suppression and disenfranchise black and brown voters.” Activists say the new polling sites might lead to a lower voter turnout at the primaries. This might impact the election results of District 21 councilmember, Hiram Monserrate, who is running against incumbent Assemblyman Francisco Moya. In early June, Lewis endorsed City Councilman Monserrate for the 2017 primary election. “This is not Mississippi; this is not Alabama; this is New York City,” Lewis said. “What is going on in this city right now is an abomination. Where is the Mayor? Where is the Borough President of Queens? Where is the Comptroller? Where is our Public Advocate? They are all on the ballot this September.” Lewis added, “If they won’t speak up for democracy we must.” l

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MONEY MATTERS

It’s Time to Start Saving for the Holidays

depending on your unique circumstances. Here are a few tips to start preparing for the holidays now:

BY CANDACE BAHR, CEA, CDFA & GINITA WALL, CPA, CFP®

ear those sleigh bells ringing? Nope, neither do we, and that’s the point! The holidays may feel like a long way off, but that’s exactly why you should start saving for them right now. Every year, the vast majority of us refuse to remember how expensive the holidays are until right around November when we look at our checking accounts in dismay and curse ourselves for not saving in advance. Don’t fall into this trap again. You know exactly where it leads — to a desperate credit card spending spree that will leave you in a depressing debt hole in January. How Much Do the Holidays Cost? You’ve been on the holiday spending merry-go-round enough times to know the holidays are expensive, but you might not realize exactly how expensive they are. Before you can start saving for them today, it’s a good idea to have a savings goal in mind. According to the American Research

Group, in 2015, the average American shopper planned to spend $882 on holiday gifts. Yikes! That’s a lot of money, but it’s only the beginning. Also, consider the cost of: Travel — Gas, plane tickets, hotel rooms Food — Are you hosting Thanksgiving, or a family Christmas dinner? Activities — The in-laws are in town and the kids are out of school. They’re going to expect some activities. All-in-all, you might need to save anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more

Holiday Savings Account The easiest way to prepare for the holidays is to simply open up a savings account with your bank dedicated specifically to holiday costs and make an automatic payment each month. Figure out how much you want to have by the time the holidays roll around and then divide that by the number of months before November, and you’ll get the amount you need to put in the account each month. If you do this at the beginning of the year, you may only need to put in $100 or less a month to save up enough in time. Even if you can’t put in the full amount in each month to reach your goal, try putting in something! Even $50 can cover holiday presents so you don’t have to worry about that cost. Early Bird Special Another option is to buy a few gifts each month and hide them away in the closet. This is a good option if you come across special deals, like ski gear on clearance in July. This tactic not only helps you

gradually collect all the presents you’ll need for the holidays, but it also saves you from the stresses and huge time suck of holiday shopping. No more driving around the mall parking lot for 15 minutes trying to find a parking spot!

Let Your Credit Card Pay for the Holidays One last nifty option is to save up all of your credit card points and then use them either to pay for your travel and accommodations during the holidays or cash them out as a credit that can be used to buy food for big family meals and presents. Nerd Wallet offers useful credit card comparisons that let you find cards with the best rewards programs. Saving for holiday spending today can save you a lot of stress down the road. You can actually enjoy the holidays this year instead of feeling guilty about the debt you just loaded onto your credit cards.l Reprinted with permission. Candace Bahr, CEA, CDFA and Ginita Wall, CPA, CFP® are co-founders of WIFE.org, a nonprofit that aims to teach females how to take financial control of their lives.

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SPECIAL REPORT

Could Hurricane Harvey Spur President Trump to Rethink Position on Climate Change?

BY KENTON X. CHANCE

INGSTOWN, St Vincent: The government of St Vincent and the Grenadines says it hopes that the devastating loss and damage that Hurricane Harvey has wrought in Texas might inspire the government of President Donald Trump to rethink its position on climate change. Hurricane Harvey, the strongest storm to hit the United States since 2005, and the costliest in U.S. history in terms of damage, made landfall in Texas on August 25 and left much of Houston and other parts of the State under many feet of floodwater. Harvey made its way to the United States about a week after it passed near St Vincent and the Grenadines and other countries in the Caribbean. Residents of this Eastern Caribbean nation breathed a sigh of relief after the only lasting sign of the passage of the storm was some flooding in Bequia, the largest and northern-most of the Grenadine Islands. Harvey made landfall in Texas for a second time in less than a week and the damage it left in the “Lone Star State” was a reminder to Vincentians of the power of tropical cyclones and the dam-

age that they have caused over the last decade in this multi-island nation. “I wonder what we would be doing if we had that sort of persistent rain. I trust that what is happening in Houston will open the eyes of a lot of people worldwide with regards to climate change,” Minister of Transportation and Works, Senator Julian Francis told a press conference in Kingstown. AMO and Special Operations agents conduct rescue with CBP UH-1N helicopter as part of Hurricane Harvey response. Francis was updating the media on a road repair program and the annual roadcleaning that came ahead of September, which is traditionally the heart of the Atlantic Hurricane Season. The minister noted that the program, which normally runs for 10 days, was reduced to eight because of the passage of Tropical Storm Harvey. But the two days of work that the temporary workers employed under the programe lost as a result of the storm, was nothing compared to the damage and loss left by less powerful weather systems over the past few years. The senator, who also has ministerial responsibilities for local government, expressed sympathy for the victims of

Harvey but also criticized President Trump, who shortly after taking office pulled the United States out of the global Paris Accord to reduce the greenhouse emissions driving climate change and severe weather, has attempted to cut government funding for the agencies that monitor climate, and has long downplayed the problem while promoting the fossil fuel industry over renewables. “It is pouring down on the fourth largest city in the United States of America but we know what the position of the sitting president and his administration is with regards to climate change. “So I trust this comes as an eye-opener to the administrators and policymakers in the United States of America. I do feel sad and sympathize with the people of Texas…I have been following it closely and I say I wonder what would happen to us if we had that sort of downpour,” Francis said. Speaking at a separate event later on Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said that St Vincent and the Grenadines is among the top 10 countries in the world most vulnerable to extreme weather events as a result of climate change. “We don’t have to have high winds. Because we are mountainous, we have a lot of landslides, the rivers overflow their banks, a lot of disasters are caused in this country by heavy rainfall, without the wind.” Gonsalves said that the nation’s seacoast is being eroded by wave action resulting from the frequent and more intense storms associated climate change. “The entire eastern coast is being eroded and also on the western side of the island,” he said. He noted that between 2014 and 2016, his government has had to rebuild five major bridges in a five-mile area in eastern St Vincent. The bridges were built to replace older ones damaged or destroyed by extreme weather events, which also necessitated redesign to accommodate larger water flows during storms ranging from tropical depressions to hurricane. At a total cost of US$7.4 million, the bridges represent a significant budgetary expense in a multi-island nation whose capital expenditure allocation in 2016 was US$74 million. “I say these things so that we can keep this matter in focus,” said Gonsalves, whose government in May introduced a one per cent levy to help fund the cost of disaster response and mitigation. In 2016, flooding as a result of tropical waves left damage to public infrastructure totalling EC$37 million, almost 10 per cent of the US$342-million national budget. Meanwhile, at a meeting of the national assembly, Minister of Foreign Affairs Louis Straker expressed solidarity with the people of the United States, and used the experience of St Vincent and the

Grenadines to remind nationals of what Texans might be experiencing. “We are not immune to natural disasters and we have had our own flooding here, the major one being 2013 Christmas Eve, in which 13 lives were lost,” Straker said. “Some people say that this is because of global warming, climate change, something that is denied and rejected by the president of the United States,” he told Parliament. “But what we have seen in Texas what is referred to in language as ‘of epic proportion’, ‘unprecedented’, ‘one in a 100 years’, the president said one in 500 years, and it is catastrophic. We must be touched with the feeling of their distress and their loss and their grief and their anguish, because we are subject to the same,” Straker said. The foreign minister, whose oldest son lives in Texas, told lawmakers that all residents of the state have been affected in one way or the other. “And we have to commiserate and sympathize and show solidarity with the Vincentians in the diaspora and with the hundreds of thousands of other people in Houston who have been affected by this storm, Harvey,” he said, noting that the storm passed St Vincent and the Grenadines without much devastation. Speaking about the impact on the lives of the people of Texas, he added, “Could you imagine that people work all their lives to build a home — that is very previous to a lot of people — and you furnish your home and you live comfortably with your family and within the space of a day or two, you could lose everything and you are left homeless? That’s a chilling prospect that all of us should contemplate.” Regionally, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), a block of 15 Caribbean nations, also extended its sympathies to the government and people of the United States and especially the State of Texas on the loss of lives and extensive damage to property and infrastructure following the passage of Hurricane Harvey. CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, in a message to President Donald Trump, said CARICOM is confident that the people of Texas and the wider United States have the resilience to recover from the disaster. LaRocque assured Trump that CARICOM stands with the Unites States at this time of disaster. “The widespread destruction wrought by this hurricane has brought suffering to many and will necessitate a significant and lengthy rebuilding process,” he said. “The unprecedented nature of this climatic event highlights the unusual nature of weather patterns that continue to affect nations across the globe.”l

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SPECIAL REPORT

Hurricane Irma/ continued from page 1

habitable — and St Martin, and reports of additional damage in other countries are also coming in. A state of emergency was declared in Antigua’s sister isle, Barbuda, where Browne reported almost total devastation, with about 95 percent buildings damaged and 60 per cent of the island’s residents now homeless. A two-year-old child was Hurricane Irma’s first victim when it made a direct hit on the island. Barbuda was absolutely devastated by Hurricane Irma…. 90% of its structures are destroyed and 60% of the islands population is homeless… The situation is similar in St Martin. France’s Interior Minister Gerard Collomb told Franc Info that eight people died and another 23 were injured in the French Caribbean island territories of St Martin and Saint Barthélemy. But that number is expected to rise. St Martin official Daniel Gibbs is quoted by the Associated Press as saying that island is “95 per cent destroyed”. Barbuda was the first Caribbean island to feel Irma’s wrath. Hours after declaring that Antigua had been spared the brunt of the hurricane, Prime Minister Browne visited Barbuda and what he found there was a vast contrast to what was left in Irma’s wake on the main island, which the hurricane skirted. “I journeyed to Barbuda and what I saw was heart-wrenching, absolutely devas-

tating,” Browne said on state-owned ABS Television on his return to Antigua. “In fact, I believe that on a per capita basis, the extent of the destruction in Barbuda is unprecedented. And it is unprecedented based on the type of storm. Hurricane Irma would have been easily the most powerful hurricane to have stormed through the Caribbean and it is extremely unfortunate that Barbuda was right in its path. “From my observation, having done an aerial survey, I would say that about 95 percent of the properties would have suffered some level of damage; they would have lost at least a part of their roofs, some have lost whole roofs, some properties have been totally demolished. It is absolutely heart-wrenching,” he added. Browne added that roads and telecommunications systems were destroyed and recovery would take months, if not years. He said temporary relief is being mobilized for Barbuda. But with Hurricane Jose now churning towards the Leeward

Islands, and scheduled to impact the same islands hit by Irma by this weekend, Browne said all Barbuda residents may have to be evacuated. “In fact, I am of the view that as it stands now, Barbuda is barely habitable and if we have yet another storm coming in a matter of days we will have to make special arrangements to evacuate all Barbudans and bring them over here until we can restore some level of normalcy,” the Prime Minister said. Meantime, St Martin is also in need of emergency assistance. “It’s an enormous catastrophe,” Gibbs, regional council chairman told Associated Press. “I’m in shock. It’s frightening. I have sick people to evacuate. I have a population to evacuate because I don’t know where I can shelter them.” French President Macron said while it was too soon to give casualty figures, he expected the toll “will be harsh and cruel”, adding that he expected damage on Saint Barthélemy and St Martin to be

“considerable”. Photos and video circulating on social media from St Martin showed major damage to the airport in Philipsburg and the coastal village of Marigot heavily flooded. France sent emergency food and water there and to the French island of Saint Barthélemy, where Irma ripped off roofs and knocked out electricity. Over in Anguilla, at least one person was killed. The tourist board reported that the major resorts on the island survived a hit from Hurricane Irma but many private homes were damaged. Significant damage has also been reported from the British Virgin Islands, where critical facilities, as well as homes, businesses and supermarkets, have been devastated. A state of emergency in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which were also struck. There were reports of extensive damage to buildings, and of land entirely stripped of vegetation. A public health emergency has also been declared. In St Kitts, several persons suffered damages to their homes and property; trees were felled and poles and power lines were downed. Water was shut off as a safety measure to prevent excessive siltation and there was loss of power in some communities. However, there were no reports of death or injury. For pictures of Irma’s devastation. please visit us @cawnyc on Facebook. Please keep the victims of Hurricane Irma in your thoughts and prayers.l

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Ede is Running for City Council and She Needs Your Help

BY CAW STAFF

de Fox is running as a Democrat in the 35th City Council District. She has 11 years of experience and is a community activist and former community board member. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Anthropology and is a Ph.D. candidate in Anthropology at the University of California, Los Angeles. She currently lives in Prospect Heights and is a member of St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Ede is very passionate about the 112 year-old, long vacant Bedford Union Armory. Developers are getting a full city of blocks while in exchange residents are only getting 15 units of affordable housing which in her opinion is an indication that a wrong course of action is being taken. She is committed to stopping the loss of affordable housing and is prepared to roll up her sleeves and to get her hands dirty to help accomplish this goal and to target resources and organize tenants. She said that this is not quick or easy, but it is doable. Ede challenged her incumbent, Laurie Combo, in getting her hands dirty and

Fox

adding that she has more experience than Laurie in that area and is more of an on the ground person than she is. Ede believes in legislating policies to help immigrants due to the fact that we are a sanctuary city. She is against broken window policing citing that it is disproportionately attacking Black and Latino community members and adds to deportation from this city. She said that anyone who is paying taxes and is engaged in what’s happening in city life, needs to have a voice in what’s happening. She said that we are also struggling with our schools and child homelessness which is upsetting to her; the numbers are astronomical. Funding should be provided for after- school programming and

it should be affordable as this is how we can ensure that our kids get access to quality education. Ede remarked that when she gets into office, she will focus on, and deal with, inequity between schools within school districts and that all schools should be the very best they can be; but we are not there yet. Looking to represent a large immigrant community, Ede appreciates the hardwork of immigrants and values their contributions. She said, “Immigrants come to this country to work hard and build a better life for themselves and their families. And every resident in our community, regardless of immigration status, should feel safe going to a hospital, school or police station if they need to. Ede will stand up to Donald Trump to defend New York as a sanctuary city, and keep Brooklyn as the place where the American Dream begins for immigrant families.” Ede Fox can be contacted at www.edefox.com and at 813 Nostrand Ave between President and Union streets in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. Her campaign number is 917-725-1517.l

VOTE 2017

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VOTE 2017

Pat Gatling: I Am Running for Brooklyn District Attorney to Ensure Transparency, Safety and Equal Justice for All

s your District Attorney, I will do away with arrests for minor crimes such as marijuana use, prostitution and smoking on the street. It is these kinds of petty crimes that not only clog our Criminal Justice System, but contribute to systemic discrimination of our young black and brown youth. Phil Murphy, who will likely be the next governor of New Jersey, will likely implement legislation to decriminalize marijuana, which means in the next year, young people will be crossing the river to drop millions of revenue in our sister city while we lock up black and brown young men and women. This must stop now. And I pledge to end this practice. I will also work with law enforcement, elected officials, community and neighborhood advocates and stakeholders to devise a plan for the retroactive decriminalization and immediate release of people convicted of marijuana misdemeanors, sex work related offense and youth offense. I plan to confer with states such as Louisiana, which recently eliminated mandatory prison terms for crimes such as arson, communicating false information about arson, home invasion, theft and possession of two grams or less of many illegal drugs. The state also did away with mandatory prison for a third felony prostitution conviction. The data shows mandatory minimum prison terms does little to deter future offenders, but clogs and over crowds an already overburdened prison system and comes at a significant cost to the public. By it’s very nature, such policies divert more people, particularly those of a black and brown hue, into the prison system for lengthier periods of time. The result – we spend more money for each person we incarcerate. NOW is the time to change that. And I know that I am the right person for the job. The role of a District Attorney is both crime fighter and civil rights crusader. The DA has to be as passionate about keeping folks out of jail as she is is locking up violent offenders. In my three decades as a lawyer, I pride myself on finding resolutions for those seeking justice. As the first Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn, I successfully prosecuted large-scale drug operators, but I also spearheaded gun violence initiatives and Introduced New York City’s first gun buy-back program when I worked in the Brooklyn DA’s Office as the King’s County Narcotics Prosecutor in the 1990s when Brooklyn was the fifth most dangerous place in the country. I have both the experience and a proven track record of providing equal justice and fundamental fairness during my 15year tenure in the Brooklyn District

The role of a District Attorney is both crime fighter and civil rights crusader. I know that I am the right person for the job. I created most of the community-based programs that currently exist in the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office today.

Attorney’s Office. As chief narcotics prosecutor during the height of Brooklyn’s drug epidemic, I created most of the community-based programs that currently exist in the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office today. One of my proudest achievement is the creation of ComALERT, a program that helps the formerly incarcerated successfully transition home and become productive members of society. As District Attorney, I won’t just rest on my laurels. I want to begin to utilize some of our excellent neighborhood programs and non-profits for first time

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offenses such as driving while inebriated or texting or someone who is mentally disabled, so they can get the help they need instead of being routed through our prison system. NOW is the time for realistic solutions and strategic implementation. As the Human Rights Commissioner for NYC, I brought a dead agency to life by resolving it’s 5,000 backlog of cases that threatened to shut its doors and restructured it into an efficient office with deliverable services and millions of dollars in settlements. I have been preparing for this job for 30

years. I am the only candidate in this election who has managed a city agency. The Broooklyn DA’s office is a 1200 person office with a $94 million budget that requires effective and efficient management as well as a leader with a vision of justice that will keep Brooklyn’s residents safe while providing fundamental fairness and equality. l The time is NOW. For innovative and practical solutions. For strategic implementation. For conviction and compassion. Vote Gatling For Brooklyn DA

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VOTE 2017

Brian Cunningham for NYC District 40

orn in Flatbush and raised by a single mother, Brian Cunningham was educated from kindergarten through college in Brooklyn public schools,witnessing firsthand the socioeconomic hurdles as well as the lack of opportunities and resources faced by the community. He is a first generation American who maintains strong ties to his Jamaican roots and Christian faith through his church and the variouscommunity engagements to which he commits his time. Brian has spent his entire adult life serving the community, from working in local government and non-profits to nationally with President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance. Determined to pursue social, racial, and economic justice, he is running for City Council in Brooklyn's 40th District, which includes Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Flatbush, East Flatbush, Ditmas Park, Kensington, Crown Heights, and Prospect Park South. As the next city council member for District 40, Brian will fight for: Affordable Housing Stand up to the real estate lobby and the stalemate in the state legislature to increaserent regulated and protected units, make affordable housing affordable, and fight back against unscrupulous

criminalization of poverty and mental illness, and put an end to stop and frisk. Small Business Provide tax incentives for small businesses who hire full-time employees and create more incubator and coworking spaces for startups. Youth Development Increase funding for mentorship services, promote new innovative vocational and career training, and support arts and recreational activities and programs.

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Transportation Improve safety conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, reduce traffic and commute times, and improve transit access for low income and disabled New Yorkers. Seniors Ease senior citizens’ financial burdens by stopping their income taxes, increase funding for senior services and commu-

nity centers, and aid immigrant seniors linguistically. Healthcare Ensure every New Yorker regardless of health/citizenship/immigration/employment status by establishing a universal healthcare system modeled after Healthy San Francisco. Criminal Justice Reform Stop broken windows policing, end the

Arts and Culture Support cultural institutions, open a new community center that celebrates and educates folks about the district’s rich culture of music, and establish foodfocused events celebrating our district's diverse cultures. As Brian likes to say: it’s our time! It’s the community’s time to rise and see representation by someone who truly understands and has lived through the issues.l For more information on Brian and ways to get involved, please his website at www.cunninghamforcouncil.com.

DO YOU WANT TO START, GROW, GET MONEY, MARKET OR CERTIFY YOUR BUSINESS? CONTACT THE CHAMBER AT 718-722-9217 OR VISIT WWW.NACC.NYC

VOTE DEMOCRAT SEPTEMBER 12

East Flatbush, Flatbush, Prospect Lefferts Gardens, Ditmas Park, Kensington, Midwood, Crown Heights, Prospect Park South

Brian Cunningham, a proud first generation American, was born in Brooklyn and raised by his single mother in Flatbush. He's spent his entire adult life serving the community, from working in local government and non profits to nationally with President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance.

“Working under President Obama gave me the chance to improve life outcomes for boys and young men of color, empowering them with the support to stay on a path to success.” @cunningham4nyc | www.cunningham4nyc.com | info@briancunninghamnyc.com DO YOU WANT TO START, GROW, GET MONEY, MARKET OR CERTIFY YOUR BUSINESS? CONTACT THE CHAMBER AT 718-722-9217 OR VISIT WWW.NACC.NYC

DIASPORA CONCERNS

Diabetes Unlocked: A Conversation

BY ELIAS GEDREHIWOT

ccording to the American Diabetes Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: n29.1 million Americans, or 9.3% of the population, have diabetes n25.9% of Americans age 65 and older, or 11.8 million seniors, have diabetes (diagnosed and undiagnosed) nDiabetes remains the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S. n$245 billion is the total estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes in the U.S. And, according to a June 2007 diabetes report published by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DoHMH): Diabetes prevalence has more than doubled over the past 10 years. More than half a million adult New Yorkers have diagnosed diabetes and an additional 200,000 have diabetes but do not yet know it. Diabetes and diabetes-associated cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death in NYC. Each year in NYC there are more than 20,000 hospitalizations with a principal diagnosis of diabetes. Diabetes disproportionately affects Black and Latino New Yorkers, as well as those living in low-income households and neighborhoods. These disparities are evident in diabetes prevalence, hospitalizations and mortality, and track

closely with patterns of being overweight and obesity, and with the related behaviors of physical inactivity and an unhealthy diet.

What is diabetes? The Department’s report concisely summarizes it: "Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of blood glucose. It is caused by resistance to insulin (a hormone that regulates levels of blood glucose), inadequate production of insulin, or both. There are 3 main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2 and gestational. Type 1 diabetes [caused by insufficient insulin) has a peak incidence in puberty, but can develop at any age. Type 2 diabetes usually occurs in adults aged 40 and older who have certain inherited and behavioral risk factors, such as a family history of diabetes, or who are overweight, obese or physically inactive. However, with the rise in being overweight and obesity at young ages, type 2 diabetes is increasingly affecting adolescents. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy, when the body is less sensitive to insulin." Research cited by the American Diabetes Association indicates that only 5% of people have type 1 diabetes. According to the Association, “with type 1, it’s very important to balance your insulin doses with the food you eat and the activity that you do.” Insulin Therapy

is recommended as a form of treatment for Type 1 diabetes, which involves “daily injections with insulin pens or syringes or an insulin pump.”

The best approach to diabetes prevention and treatment? Caribbean American Weekly recently spoke to Nannie Coromantie, a Jamaicaborn American, who is an independent researcher, passionate about natural health and healing. Coromantie is a dedicated advocate of a healthy diet and natural treatment solutions for diseases such as diabetes. “Exercise, healthy nutrition and emotional support are key components of dealing with all types of diabetes. Especially type 2 diabetes is definitely preventable with natural health remedies,” said Ms. Coromantie. When Coromantie delved into studying natural health research, she was inspired by her experience dealing with diabetic family members. From her research, she concluded that proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle can effectively prevent diabetes, regardless of the types. “Eat clean - keep it as close as possible to how God made it. No GMO (genetically modified food), no pesticide - if meat is necessary, it should be grass fed. All milk should be organic; chicken, no antibiotics or hormones. Plenty of fruits and vegetables; choose organically grown. Plenty of clean water, clean air,

spiritual meditation and exercise. That is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle,” Coromantie said. “Most doctors would like you to believe that the only treatment available to diabetes is to inject yourself insulin on a daily basis and to be hooked on medications that are toxic to your body. But you can beat diabetes, whether type 1 or Type 2, through natural remedies that include proper nutrition, a fully body detox and exercise! Especially for type 2, exercise is a must.” Coromantie recommended that every health-conscious person should watch these two documentary films: Food, Inc., which exposes how corporate farming leads to a culture of unhealthy diet, which then causes deadly diseases such as diabetes; Forks Over Knives, “an American advocacy film that advocates a low-fat, whole-food, plant-based diet as a way to avoid or reverse several chronic diseases.” Because we are what we eat, Coromantie argued that the cornerstone of diabetes prevention is knowing what we eat and avoiding mass produced food that is unhealthy. Accordingly, Ms. Coromantie advises people to read the following books, at least: The Green Pharmacy by James A. Duke, Phd; 4 Blood Types, 4 Diets: Eat Right 4 Your Type: Diet Solution to Staying Healthy, Living Longer & Achieving Your Ideal Weight by Dr. Peter D’Adamo with Catherine Whitney; and Worst Pills, Best Bills: A Consumer’s Guide to Avoiding Drug-induced Death or Illness by Sid M. Wolfe. “Before doing anything, taking a cleanse (detox) is very important. The Cleaner detox, for example, can be purchased for just $15. It contains natural herbs and minerals, which include milk thistle. Milk thistle is important since it keeps the liver clean of toxins. It helps not only diabetic persons but also alcohol drinkers. The best time to detox is 3 days after a full moon to get the best result,” said Coromantie. WebMD, a respected medical website, confirms that “milk thistle, combined with traditional treatment, can improve diabetes. Studies have shown a decrease in blood sugar levels and an improvement in cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. Researchers also have found that milk thistle improved insulin resistance, a key characteristic of type 2 diabetes.” However, since diabetes is a serious condition, the website advises patients to be cautious of milk thistle intake. “The bottomline is if one is serious about health issues such as Type 2 diabetes, start with the cause. The main cause is an improper diet. Know your blood type, read food labels and keep it close to original creation as possible. Stay away from GMO and pesticide grown food. Don’t eat late at night, cut carbs, wheat and all types of sugars. That is the first step,” said Coromantie.l

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MOVING FORWARD

Caribbean Urged to Fight Trump’s Move to Scrap Program Protecting Immigrants

SHINGTON, DC: With thousands of undocumented immigrants facing possible deportation from the United States, CaribbeanAmerican legislators are urging the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to urgently mobilize pushback against President Donald Trump’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). DACA, a policy of former President Barack Obama, had granted about 800,000 young undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children from deportation, and Caribbean-born officials warn that scrapping it will be devastating. U.S. Congresswoman Yvette D Clarke, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, called the move a “reckless and cruel decision” that punished immigrants in a misguided effort to undermine Obama’s proud legacy and “satisfy anti-immigrant white supremacists who are afraid of our modern, diverse nation”. “Throughout the history of the United States, there are decisions we have come to regret. I am certain that future generations will deeply regret this terrible decision as well,” she said. At the same, New York Council member

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Jumanne Williams, who has Grenadian heritage, is urging CARICOM to speak out against the development. “We must all become a part of the resistance. This president has made it clear that he’s coming for all of us, whether we choose to acknowledge it or not. “I am urging the Caribbean community to mobilize with more urgency on this issue,” he said. “This issue will almost certainly endanger scores of Caribbean immigrants, and it is imperative that we join with our more active Latino brothers and sisters to make our voices heard

loudly on this issue.” Williams said the issue should be challenged in the law courts and efforts made to turn up the pressure on Congress to fight the issue with legislation. Just before the dreaded announcement came yesterday, New York City Mayor Bill De Blasio had told the gathering attending the pre-Caribbean Carnival Breakfast on Labor Day that he was prepared to take legal action if President Trump followed through with his threat to end DACA. After the announcement made by Attorney General Jeff Sessions,

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President Trump issued a statement blaming former President Obama for creating the program through executive authority, and he urged Congress to come up with a solution. “As I’ve said before, we will resolve the DACA issue with heart and compassion – but through the lawful democratic process – while at the same time ensuring that any immigration reform we adopt provides enduring benefits for the American citizens we were elected to serve,” Trump said. “We must also have heart and compassion for unemployed, struggling and forgotten Americans.” l

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LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

Dating Advice for Men: The Do’s

BY DANI GRAZIANO, MFT

ave you have been out of the dating world and preparing to take the leap to start? Or do you have a streak of bad dates and can’t seem to score a second date? You men must enter smart into the scene. You have ONE first date that either opens or shuts the door for a second date. This is the time to make a great impression. The potential to connect with someone and begin to get to know them can be thrilling and at the same time anxiety provoking. There are a few common sense things you can do to help insure a successful first date that leads to a second one. There are also things that you should avoid doing on a first date and some of them may not seem so obvious. Setting yourself up for a successful date takes some thought and a little effort. The following list includes some of the common sense first date “Do’s”. If you keep these things in mind when you meet a woman for the first time, there is a good chance that if the connection is there, you will get to see her again. 1. Calm Your Nerves: If you are anxious find something that calms your nerves such as working out before the date. Not only will you feel more relaxed, you will

look better too.

2. Dress to Impress: First impressions matter. Spend time on grooming, smelling good and dressing well.

3. Coffee or Wine: Have the first date be a shorter date, either coffee or wine. If for some reason the date goes bad, you are only committed for a short amount of time and you have an escape route. If things go well, you can always stay longer.

4. Show up on time (or a few minutes early): Never keep the woman waiting. Tardiness sets the tone for the rest of the date and it can set you up for failure. If for some reason you will be late, call her and let her know you are on your way. This will show you are responsible, considering her time, and making the effort to arrive as soon as possible. Although being considerate of her time is great if you are going to be late, the real point here is simply don’t be late for a first date. 5. Be a Gentleman: Even though we are in the “women are equal” time period, still be respectful by opening the door, pulling out the chair, and/or paying for the date.

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6. Put your cell phone away: Checking text messages or (God help you) answering a call while you are on a first date indicates that you have something better you’d like to be doing. Turn you phone to silent and put it out of sight. If you really need to check your messages, do it in the restroom.

7. Pay her a compliment: When it comes to compliments, simple is better. “That’s a pretty dress you are wearing,” or ”You have beautiful eyes,” can win you some points. Women like to hear that a man finds her attractive. Be careful not to take it too far. Statement s like, “Wow, you are really hot!” can send the wrong message and even feel somewhat aggressive to a woman. 8. Ask Questions: Find some common interests by asking questions about her. This is the time to simply see if you two would be a good fit for another date. Ask open-ended questions. 9. Share about You: Don’t simply keep the conversation focused on her. Open up and share about your interests, hobbies, or travel journeys. Be transparent.

10. Joke: Break the ice by joking and sharing funny (yet appropriate) stories.

11. Eye Contact: Looking a woman in her eyes is a MUST! But don’t get into a staring contest or get too intense. That can just make things awkward.

12. Enjoy the Night: Don’t overthink the date! Enjoy yourself. You deserve to have a great time. Don’t expect to find your soul mate or get discouraged if you don’t feel an instant connection with her. If the date is not a total disaster, there is often potential for a second one. A decent first date can lead to a great second date. 13. Be honest: If you don’t feel a connection with her, politely let her know. “I’ve had a great time talking to you tonight, but I don’t think we are a good romantic match.” This goes a long way. Oftentimes, if you’re not feeling it, neither is she. However, if you get the sense that she is into you and you have no intention of seeing her again, it is better to let her know. This way you don’t have to spend two weeks dodging her phone calls. Be sure to be polite!l Dani Graziano, MFT (Marriage & Family Therapist) has more than five years of practice as a Marriage and Family Therapist and has worked with diverse populations including At-Risk Youth and Military Families.

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HEALTH MATTERS

This Type of Cancer is a Growing Concern in the Black Community

here are all different types of cancer. Leukemia is one type that involves the production of abnormal white blood cells in bone marrow. There are four different types of the more common forms of leukemia, but one type is of increasing concern in the black community. A study done in 2013, showed that African Americans with this type of cancer did not live as long as other patients with the disease, in spite of receiving the same treatment. It's called Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), also known as chronic myelogenous leukemia. It primarily affects adults, and occurs in about 6,000 people in the U.S. every year. Although it represents 10-15 percent of all the different types of leukemia, it has become a growing concern for African Americans.

Leukemia may affect red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets Normally, the bone marrow makes blood stem cells (immature cells) that become mature blood cells over time. A blood stem cell may become a myeloid stem cell or a lymphoid stem cell. A lymphoid stem cell becomes a white blood cell.

A myeloid stem cell becomes one of three types of mature blood cells: nRed blood cells that carry oxygen and other substances to all tissues of the body. nPlatelets that form blood clots to stop bleeding. nGranulocytes (white blood cells) that fight infection and disease. In CML, too many blood stem cells become a type of white blood cell called granulocytes. These granulocytes are abnormal and do not become healthy white blood cells. They are also called leukemia cells. The leukemia cells can build up in the blood and bone marrow so there is less room for healthy white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. When this happens, infection, anemia or easy bleeding may occur. Signs and symptoms Signs and symptoms of chronic myelogenous leukemia include fever, night sweats and tiredness. These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by CML or by other conditions. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:

nFeeling very tired. nWeight loss for no known reason. nNight sweats. nFever. nPain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs on the left side. Sometimes CML does not cause any symptoms at all.

What researchers know What researchers know about the cancer, is that this type of leukemia typically grows slowly, but it can quickly acceler-

17#

ate and spread to just about any part of the body. They also found a link between CML and an abnormal chromosome known as the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph chromosome). Further, they know that the disease is usually diagnosed in its chronic phase (early stage) when treatment is very effective for most patients.

What researchers don't know What researchers don't know is why people develop the disease. They also do not know why this form of leukemia is becoming more prevalent in the black community, or why blacks with CML may not live as long as other patients with the disease. Because of the disparity with which this cancer affects African Americans, it is definitely a cancer they need to know more about.l Source: National Cancer Institute

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n these days of low interest rates, it can be a great idea to get into the real estate market and invest in a home. Unfortunately, if you don't have the funds saved up for a down payment, it can seem like more of a burden than it's worth to buy now. While borrowing the money for your down payment might seem like the road backward, here are a few reasons you may want to consider acquiring your mortgage funds from someone else. Taking Advantage of Low Interest Interest rates have been relatively low for a few years, which can be a definite financial boom when it comes to your monthly mortgage payment. Unfortunately, though, the predictions forecast that rates are on the rise and that means home ownership may be a more difficult dream in the coming years. If you're interested in getting a home at a lower price with a better interest rate, it may be worth getting a short-term loan

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Giving Up On Rent When investing in a home, there are few things more rewarding than not having to pay rent anymore. Not only that, instead of effectively tossing away money each month that you'll never see again, you will be able to see your equity grow in the property you purchase. This cannot only be used as leverage for investment in another home, it also means that no matter the downturn in the market, you'll have a solid investment in something. You may not like the idea of borrowing money for your mortgage, but it can be a good fiscal choice with interest rates on the rise and the opportunity to say goodbye to rent forever. If you're currently considering borrowing and are planning to buy a home in the short-term future, you may want to contact our mortgage professional, Akail Sylvester at 888-6706791 for more information.l

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The Immigrant’s Journal

Our leaders who stood for Unity & Justice

FREE

Protecting God’s Children From Distant Lands

www.ijlef.org

Vol.97

26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY 11242 Tel: 718-243-9431 Fax: 718-222-3153 Email: immjournal @aol.com

Race and DACA Reversal

BY BRIAN FIGEROUX, ESQ

s a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), for two decades, I am saddened by President Trump’s disdain for young immigrants, mostly Blacks and Hispanics, who former President Barack Obama, granted relief to legally work under DACA, while the DREAM Act, lingered in Congress. This, unfortunately, is the same President, Donald Trump, who stood with the KKK in all the violence in Charlottesville, VA, not condemning the KKK. Again, unfortunately, President’s Trump’s has shown the American people his true colors at the expense of innocent

Court Decision Ensures Many TPS Holders in Ninth Circuit May Become Permanent Residents

continued on page 2

Administration Adds Extra Hurdles for Legal Immigrants

BY JOSHUA BREISBLATT

he Trump administration continued its attack on legal immigration, announcing that it will start requiring additional in-person interviews for tens of thousands of individuals who have already undergone extensive screening and have been successfully living and working in the United States for years. These unnecessary interviews are likely to add to already significant backlogs and have a negative impact on the economy. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that start-

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DACA Is Gone! What’s Next? Brian Figeroux, Esq.

continued on page 3

BY WENDY FELIZ

he Trump administration announced the end of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) placing some 800,000 young immigrants at risk for deportation. This means no new applications will be accepted and only those individuals with current DACA that expires before March

BY MARY KENNEY

5, 2018 may renew, a final time, for two years. Young people who currently have DACA will be returned to their undocumented status and susceptible to deportation as early as March 5, 2018. Here are some tips on how DACA beneficiaries should protect themselves should they find themselves at risk of being apprehended by ICE:

Do Not Open Your Doors— Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) cannot come into your home without a warrant signed by a judge. With your door shut, ask ICE to slide the signed warrant under the door or push it up against a window. They cannot come in unless you let them. continued on page 3

undreds, if not thousands, of noncitizens with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) now are eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence because of a Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision. In Ramirez v. Brown, the Court ruled that a grant of TPS to a noncitizen qualifies as an “inspection and admission.” Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, inspection and admission are eligibility requirements for permanent residence. This decision allows TPS recipients, even those who initially entered without inspection, who are married to a U.S. citizen or are otherwise eligible for permanent residence, to obtain a “green card.” Several years ago, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in the same way. TPS is a humanitarian program that allows foreign nationals of certain countries temporary status in the United States when, because of natural disasters or civil strife in their home countries, it is unsafe for them to return. To be eligible, a person must be present in the United States at the time that the DHS Secretary “designates” the home country for TPS. After approval of an initial application, the individual periodically must reapply for this status, and if approved, may keep it for so long as DHS continues the TPS designation of the home country. Ten countries are currently designated for TPS; some of these designations have lasted more than a decade. The Ninth Circuit case revolved around Mr. Ramirez who has been lawfully present in the United States with TPS since 2001, when El Salvador—his home country—was designated for TPS due to a devastating earthquake. As is true of many other TPS recipients, he has made the United States his continued on page 2

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS TPS/continued from page 1

A Special Invitation

to all faith-based leaders to empower their congregation and membership from the IJLEF, Inc.

home and is married to a U.S. citizen. Based upon this marriage, he applied for permanent residence. Though USCIS initially denied his application for permanent residence, the Ninth Circuit overturned USCIS’ denial, finding that Congress intended a grant of TPS to serve as an inspection and admission for purposes of any subsequent application for permanent residence by a TPS recipient. Not all TPS recipients within the Ninth Circuit who initially entered without inspection will be eligible for permanent

residence under Ramirez. Individuals who do not meet all the other requirements for permanent residence will not benefit from the decision. TPS recipients who apply for a Green Card must still satisfy all other requirements. Those who, like Mr. Ramirez, are married to a U.S. citizen generally will be eligible, because the requirements for permanent residence are relaxed slightly for such close relatives of U.S. citizens. For those TPS holders who are eligible, however, the decision is hugely significant—it protects them and permits them to stay in the United States in a permanent status.l

organization offering:

Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman

Graphic & Website Designer Praim Samsoondar Contributors Wendy Feliz Joshua Breisblatt Tory Johnson Mary Kenney

Email immjournal@aol.com

FREE IMMIGRATION SEMINARS/ PRESENTATIONS & CONSULTATION CARDS ($100 VALUE) ON THE DAY OF THE PRESENTATION

Visit Executive Director Diandra Archibald Public Relations Ruth McSween Gloria Conttreras

Call 718-243-9431 to schedule a presentation

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Race and DACA/

Internship positions available throughout the year.

continued from page 1

youths. On September 5, 2017, the Trump administration announced the end to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Specifically, the Acting Secretary of Homeland Security rescinded the 2012 memorandum creating DACA and stated that as of September 5, 2017, the government will no longer process any new DACA applications. Individuals who currently have DACA will be permitted to retain their status until the current expiration date listed on the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). DACA recipients whose EADs expires before March 5, 2018 will be permitted to apply for renewal, but the renewal application must be filed before October 5, 2017. DACA recipients with an EAD that expires after March 5, 2018, will not be permitted to renew their status. At this point, we understand the announcement to mean that after March 5, 2018, when DACA recipients’ EAD expires, they will return to whatever unauthorized status they possessed at the time they acquired DACA. DACA recipients who may or may not be eligible for other forms of relief NEED TO MEET WITH AN ATTORNEY to reassess their immigration status. Individuals who may not have been eligible for alternate forms of relief when initially granted DACA may now be eligible due to changed circumstances (such as travel on advanced parole). For

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this reason, DACA beneficiaries are strongly encouraged to assess whether other forms of relief are now available, through consultations with an attorney, even if the DACA recipient was screened when he or she initially applied for DACA. For a FREE evaluation on DACA or any legal issue, call the Law Office of Figeroux & Associates, at 855-7688845.l

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Figeroux & Associates

The Immigrant's Journal Legal & Educational Fund, Inc. is an organization dedicated to the educational and economic empowerment of all immigrants and immigrant organizations here in the United States. We at the Journal recognize the enormous contribution of immigrants to this country economically, socially and politically. Since September 11, 2001, however, immigrants have increasingly been discriminated against and Congress has passed legislation curtailing the rights of immigrants here in the U.S., broadly claiming that immigrants are a threat to ''National Security.'' We at the Journal believe that these charges are unfounded, unsubstantiated and exaggerated. The Immigrant's Journal Volunteer Intern Program was introduced to give our volunteers the opportunity to work in an immigrant friendly environment while developing the necessary skills for college or law school. They assist our staff in resolving immigration and other legal concerns through personal interviews, radio, email and telephone contact. They also assist the public with citizenship applications and in researching whether or not children of naturalized U.S. citizens have derived citizenship from their parents. Some of our volunteers assist our legal staff by engaging in legal research and writing letters on other legal issues. Volunteer interns are also assigned various other jobs in our Youth Programs. Hours are flexible. Email your cover letter and resume or any questions to: immjournal@aol.com Tel: 718-243-9431 Fax: 718-222-3153

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.IJLEF.ORG FOR MORE IMMIGRATION NEWS & UPDATES

IMMIGRATION MATTERS

More Immigrants are Dying in Detention

BY TORY JOHNSON

he Administration’s efforts to massively expand immigration detention in the United States are already evident in Texas, where a forprofit prison company is building the largest complex in the country to detain immigrants—and taxpayers are footing the bill. The Geo Group, a for-profit, private prison corporation, has begun constructing a $110 million, 1,100-bed facility in Conroe, Texas, after signing a 10-year, renewable contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in April. Geo already operates a nearby 1,500-bed detention center, as well as the country’s second-largest detention facility for jailing asylum-seeking families.Geo cites ICE as its number one customer. The immigration detention system in the United States is already a sprawling network with at least 600 locations designated to house immigrants the government detains. Yet the current administration is pursuing even greater detention capacity as part of its plans to ramp up immigration enforcement. Government data shows that more peo-

ple are being detained due to an uptick in arrests by ICE agents coupled with a decrease in the government’s use of prosecutorial discretion to release immigrants from detention. The president’s fiscal year (FY) 2018 budget request asks Congress to allocate $3.5 billion for detention in order to increase detention bed capacity by 50 percent above currently-funded levels While detaining thousands of immigrants in hundreds of prison-like facilities throughout the United States has been a lifeline for the private prison industry, they are failing to protect the lives of the individuals they detain. According to ICE records, 173 people have died in DHS custody since 2003. As of June 2017, the death rate in ICE detention this fiscal year (FY) is on track to be the highest in six years. Nine months into FY 2017, which began in October, 10 people have died in ICE custody. This is the same number of deaths that occurred in all of FY 2016. This year’s deaths—occurring in detention centers from California to New Jersey and Georgia—include one suicide and have otherwise been largely related to poor medical care. Multiple reports

have raised serious questions about the care and condition standards in immigration detention, in some cases finding that violations of medical standards were a major contributing factor in a person’s death. Scrutiny of privately-run facilities has mounted with the rising death toll, both nationally and internationally. The InterAmerican Commission for Human Rights (IACHR), for example, expressed serious concern about the recent deaths and lack of action, stating, “Despite the hunger strikes and the various reports and demands from the IACHR and civil society organizations, the authorities continue to fail to take effective measures to prevent deaths and abuses against migrants in detention.” It is alarming that the United States continues to allow private corporations to profit off detaining immigrants within a system that has been proven to be riddled with abuses and a lack of accountability and oversight. The expansion of abysmal immigration detention is a threat not only to members of our communities but to our values as a nation.l

DACA Is Gone/ continued from page 1

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent — ICE can use anything you say against you in immigration court. It’s important for you to remain silent and ask to speak to your attorney. Simply tell the immigration officer: “I am exercising my fifth amendment right and choosing to remain silent until I speak to my attorney.” Do Not Sign Anything Before Speaking to an Attorney— ICE and Customs Border Protection (CBP) may attempt to pressure or coerce you into signing your own deportation order. This is also known as a voluntary departure. Do not sign anything that they give you without first speaking to an attorney.

Record Your Encounter — Take note of badge numbers, the number of agents, time, type of cars they used, and exactly what happened. Reporting this information will help advocates determine whether any rights violations occurred.

Report Your Encounter— United We Dream runs a hotline for people to report activity of ICE, CBP, or any other enforcement agencies. Report the activity by calling the hotline at 1–844–363– 1423.

Contact an Immigration Lawyer — Get a trustworthy immigration attorney or legal representative accredited by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) and explore all options to fight your case.

If detained, remember that you might be able to pay to be released on bond— don’t lose hope.

Protect Your Assets— If you bought a vehicle, home, or have a business, prepare a plan for how you will maintain them if you lose your job or are put into deportation proceedings.

Empower Others to Inquire About Your Case— Prepare a Third Privacy Waiver Form with your attorney or BIA representative. This form allows a third party of your choice (congressional office, another person that is not a family member, a non-profit organization) to request any information about your detention, immigration or deportation case from an immigration enforcement agency like ICE, CBP, or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Prepare Your Documents— Make a folder of documents that will prove your physical presence as far back as you can. Make a copy of the front and back of

Photo by NEA Public Relations

your important documents such as passports, work permits, social security cards, drivers’ licenses, leasing contracts, G-28 form, Third Party Waiver, and keep the copies and originals in a safe place.

Make Plans for your Children— If you have children (under the age of 18), whether or not they are U.S. citizens, take the time to have emergency guardianship papers in place. This will provide you with peace of mind knowing how your child will be cared for if you are detained or deported. Apply for, renew, and keep safe their valid passports.

Prepare a Phone Tree— In case you or a loved one is detained, you need to have one person who can connect and activate all of your support system — family, teachers, mentors, and friends who will support you and your loved ones. The coming days will be difficult, but being prepared in case DACA ends is a

Legal Immigrants/ continued from page 1

ing on October 1, 2017 it will require inperson interviews for all individuals who have applied from within the United States to become legal permanent residents through an employment-based visa category. An additional interview will also be required of family members of refugees and asylees already living in the United States who may be eligible for refugee or asylum status through a family member. According to USCIS, the announced change to in-person interviews for these individuals is part of implementing President Trump’s second travel ban executive order, which included the “Implementing Uniform Screening and Vetting Standards for All Immigration Programs” with the potential for adding in-person interviews to vetting and an attempt to prevent fraud and enhance overall security. Despite the fact there is no evidence of widespread fraud in these programs and the agency already has the ability to interview individual applicants and beneficiaries whenever needed, it did not stop them from implementing this wasteful new policy. USCIS has long had the ability to conduct interviews when needed, but generally the agency has exercised its authority to waive in-person interviews for employment-based green card applications because USCIS deemed it unnecessary, as most cases raised no questions as to the bona fides of the applicant, the employer, or the job offer. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in 2015, the most recent year for which statistics are available, nearly 122,000 individuals adjusted their status to become a legal permanent resident based on employment. Requiring tens of thousands inperson interviews every year will place an enormous burden on an agency that already has lengthy processing times across numerous categories of immigrant benefits. With no announcement of plans to expand interview capacity or details about the implementation of the new adjudication process, we can only expect prolonged delays that will harm applicants for immigration benefits. Individuals will be forced to put major decisions about their families and jobs on hold while they await adjudication of their green cards, which could have a ripple effect on the larger economy. The decision to create an unwieldy and inflexible interview policy when safeguards against fraud through individual interviews already exist is, quite simply, unnecessary and shortsighted. This may only be the beginning. According to Politico, a USCIS spokesperson said the visa categories that require interviews will expand in the future, calling it “an incremental expansion.” This is the administration’s latest attempt to make legal immigration more difficult and demonstrates its seeming opposition to all forms of immigration.l

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.IJLEF.ORG FOR MORE IMMIGRATION NEWS & UPDATES

Includes the G28 which shows you have attorney

representation

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