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Jamaica Church Leaders Knock Obama’s Same-Sex Marriage Endorsement
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BY CAW STAFF WRITERS
ccording to an article in the Jamaican Observer, the majority of local church leaders have expressed disappointment over US president, Barack Obama’s recent endorsement of same-sex marriages. Obama made the declaration during a recent interview with Robin Roberts on ABC News giving his support of same sex marriages. “For me, personally, it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same sex couples should be able to get married,” the
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president said. While his statement was well received from gay rights activists and other groups, it has sparked widespread criticism and outrage here in the United States and in the Caribbean from conservative Christians. The Caribbean is a predominantly, Christian society and Jamaica in particular is known for its zero tolerance of homosexuality. Although, prime minister, Hon Portia Simpson-Miller who was elected in late December, announced her support civil rights for gays and that she would hire a gay person to serve in her cabinet in January. This was quite a shock as Jamaica
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is considered one of the most homophobic nations on earth and antigay killings are common and often condoned by police. Locals pastors stood firm to their long-held belief that marriage was an institution created by God for a man and a woman.
The following were statements made in the Jamaican Observer: “We believe that God ordained marriage for man and woman and nothing has changed and nothing
O
Marriage
continued on page 11
n May 9, 2012 I was asked a direct question and gave a direct answer: I believe that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry. I hope you'll take a moment to watch the conversation, consider it, and weigh in yourself on behalf of marriage equality: I've always believed that gay and lesbian Americans should be treated fairly and equally. I was reluctant to use the continued on page 2
Saying Goodbye on Mother’s Day ...see page 6
A Citadel of Hope in a Challenging Age
BY VANDELL M. PARK n a world filled with untold uncertainties, where nuclear threats demand sanctions and where once formidable economies are collapsing, and basic necessities seem out of reach for the ordinary man and woman, governments are challenged and forced out of power by way of protests from their subjects. In a world where politics takes precedent over the welfare of people, where the social continued on page 8
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Caribbean Consulates
Anguilla 845 Third Avenue New York, N.Y. 10022 Tel: 212-745-0277
Antigua & Barbuda 610 Fifth Avenue, Suite 311 New York, N.Y. 10020 Tel: 212-541-4117
The Bahamas 231 East 46th Street New York, N.Y. 10020 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: 212-949-1240
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: 212-768-2480
Grenada 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400K New York, N.Y. 10017 Tel: 212-599-0301
Guyana 370 Seventh Avenue, 4th Floor New York, N.Y. 10001 Tel: 212- 947-5110
Haiti Rape Case in Uruguay Court
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19-year-old Haitian man who says he was sexually assaulted by five Uruguayan peacekeepers in Haiti has appeared before a judge in Uruguay. The man was brought to Montevideo to testify in a closed hearing as part of an investigation into the allegations. He says he was raped last September by Uruguayan marines serving with the UN peacekeeping force in Haiti. The case caused public outrage in Haiti, fuelling resentment and protests against the UN mission. The marines have already spent several months in custody after a Uruguayan military investigation found they had broken regulations. The civil judge investigating the case will now decide whether they should face a criminal prosecution. Uruguayan media reports said the Haitian man would be asked to identify his alleged attackers. The marines are also being questioned by the judge.
Marriage
cont’d from page 1
Haiti 271 Madison Avenue, 17th Floor New York, N.Y. 10016 Tel: 212-697-9767
Jamaica 767 Third Avenue 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, 6th 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 New York, N.Y. 10038 Tel: 212-682-7272
For more Consulate information go www.cawnyc.com/directory
term marriage because of the very powerful traditions it evokes. And I thought civil union laws that conferred legal rights upon gay and lesbian couples were a solution. But over the course of several years I've talked to friends and family about this. I've thought about members of my staff in long-term, committed, same-sex relationships who are raising kids together. Through our efforts to end the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, I've gotten to know some of the gay and lesbian troops who are serving our country with
Controversy The alleged assault came to light after a video of the incident filmed on a mobile phone appeared on the internet. Haitian President Michel Martelly condemned the alleged abuse and there were protests against the UN mission. Uruguay is one of the main contributors to the 12,000-strong UN force (Minustah), which first arrived in Haiti in 2004. The peacekeepers were brought in to restore order following the overthrow of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, and its mandate was extended after the devastating earthquake in January 2010. But Minustah has also drawn controversy, including allegations of excessive use of force. In 2010 there were widespread protests after Nepalese peacekeepers were accused of being the source of a cholera epidemic which has killed more than 6,000 Haitians. l honor and distinction. What I've come to realize is that for loving, same-sex couples, the denial of marriage equality means that, in their eyes and the eyes of their children, they are still considered less than full citizens. Even at my own dinner table, when I look at Sasha and Malia, who have friends whose parents are same-sex couples, I know it wouldn't dawn on them that their friends' parents should be treated differently. So I decided it was time to affirm my personal belief that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry. I respect the beliefs of others, and the right of religious institutions to act in accordance with their own doctrines. But I believe that in the eyes of the law, all Americans should be treated equally. And where states enact same-sex marriage, no federal act should invalidate them. l Thank you, Barack
IN THE NEWS Guyana president forecasts boom in petroleum industry
G
uyana is expected to be ranked as one of the major oil producing countries in the world in the next ten years. This significant development was predicted by President Donald Ramotar as he addressed the opening of a five-day oil and gas training course for key technicians in Guyana. President Ramotar said this projection was based on information carried in a publication out of the United States. “There is therefore, a lot of optimism that we will discover (oil) in our area and hopefully in the not too distant future and, I think that this course therefore, is long overdue because I believe that we could have been preparing ourselves even before for the eventuality of us finding oil,” Ramotar said. Guyana continues the pursuit of oil in its territorial waters with international oil and gas exploration companies such as Repsol, Tullow Oil, CGX, Exxon Mobil and YPF holding the concessions. Repsol and CGX are at present drilling offshore Guyana where it is considered the second most attractive underexplored basin in the world with a potential of 15.2 billion barrels of oil. The pursuit of oil in Guyana’s territorial waters was halted for some years, after Surinamese gunboats chased out CGX in 2000. The issue was eventually settled with an arbitral tribunal award by the United Nations Convention on the Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS). However, Ramotar noted that “it is better late than never” and encouraged the participants of the training course to utilise it meaningfully. “We would like to get as much as possible, benefits from these (natural resources) and to prepare our society when these things would have been exhausted so that our people can continue to live well and to move forward,” Ramotar.l Source: www.caribbean360.com
ABOUT US
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CARIBBEAN AMERICAN WEEKLY TEAM
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. —Hosea 4:6
Publisher I.Q. INC.
Managing Editor & Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip
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Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq.
Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman
Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Samantha Rosero Lana Delgadillo
Contributors Vandell M. Park Steven Gray Jennie Estes Michele Waslin Rondel Joseph Justin Lipshutz Jacqueline Charles Detentin Watch Network Jamaica Informastion Service Email cariaweekly@aol.com
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4 NEWS
THOUGHTS
Obama's Gay-Marriage Evolution, at Last
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BY STEVEN GRAY, THE ROOT
ust when certain progressives thought that President Obama lacked the audacity to lead, he publicly endorsed, in a television interview taped Wednesday, the right of gay Americans to marry. It's a bold shift, especially coming one day after a majority of voters in North Carolina, a key battleground state in this November's elections, supported a measure explicitly limiting marriages and civil unions to heterosexuals. The president has set an important, inclusive policy tone. At first it seemed that Rick Santorum's and Newt Gingrich's departures from the race pulled the culture wars out the 2012 election, leaving two risk-averse candidates to debate voters' Topic A — the economy. But last week brought the case of Richard Grennell, the openly gay foreign policy adviser to Mitt Romney's campaign who abruptly resigned amid pressure from social conservatives. Then, on Meet the Press, Vice President Joe Biden said he is "absolutely comfortable" extending full legal marriage rights to gay and lesbian Americans, who are "entitled to the same exact rights, all the civil rights," as heterosexuals. On Monday Arne Duncan took an unusual step for an education secretary by answering a television commentator's question about whether he supports gay marriage: "I do," he said. All the president's men rushed to the
front lines of divisive battle. The Obama campaign touted Romney's view that legal marriage should be narrowly defined (a view the former Massachusetts governor reiterated Wednesday), and for days the press pushed a key question: Will the president ever come out with a definitive gay-marriage position? During his 1996 campaign for the Illinois Senate, Obama told a Chicago gay newspaper: "I favor legalizing samesex marriages, and I would fight efforts to prohibit such marriages." Nearly a dozen years later, as a presidential candidate, Obama said he was comfortable only with civil unions. Then, in Washington in December 2010, the president said that his views on the gay-marriage question "are constantly evolving. I struggle with this. I have friends, I have people who work for me who are in powerful, strong, long-lasting gay or lesbian unions." Here are some indisputable facts about the president's relationship with gay peo-
ple: He supported ending the military's "Don't ask, don't tell" policy. His Justice Department has refused to defend the federal ban on same-sex marriages. The president and his party clearly have had no problem asking gay men and lesbians for campaign money — and patience while he evolved. But in the ABC interview taped at the
White House Wednesday and scheduled to air next week, the president was definitive: "I had hesitated on gay marriage in part because I thought civil unions would be sufficient. I was sensitive to the fact that for a lot of people, the word 'marriage' was something that invokes very powerful traditions, religious beliefs and so forth." l
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CARIBBEAN POLITICS
Rowley to PM: No Need For Referendum
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BY ANNA RAMDASS TRINIDAD EXPRESS
pposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley recently said the Opposition supports Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar in her position that there was no need for a referendum on pulling away from the Privy Council and moving to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as the final court of appeal. Rowley said the Opposition will lend its full support to the legislation to effect this move, if the Government can prove that breaking away for criminal matters and not civil matters was workable. The Prime Minister and Rowley met before the Parliament sitting to discuss Government's decision. Recently, Congress of the People (COP) political leader Prakash Ramadhar called for the matter of the CCJ to be put to a referendum. The Prime Minister immediately responded on the same day by issuing a release which stated it was never a formal stated policy or an agreed policy that a referendum take place on this initiative. At the, Rowley said three positions were discussed. "There is a PNM position which is go the whole way, there's a UNC position which is to go half way and there's a COP position which is to hold a referen-
dum," he said. "I think the Government and the Opposition is in one about not requiring a referendum. We don't need a referendum on going half way or going whole way in so far as we have already established the court. We can't have the referendum now, the court exists so the question of a referendum on a CCJ or not, to me is disingenuous, because we have already created it, we put a couple hundred million dollars into a trust fund that is operating now, there's a court in session," said Rowley.
Rowley said Attorney General Anand Ramlogan presented his advice on the move and the Opposition presented theirs. "One of the points that we raised was that in the event that the Government takes its advice from its experts and want to go the way it is going there may be legal impediments, the Government doesn't think so," said Rowley. He said legal challenges could arise as there may be need for the co-operation of Caricom neighbours who are all part of the CCJ agreement.
"The Government has agreed to look at that to see whether that in fact is an impediment and they have agreed to share with us as the discussions continue with Caricom neighbours what their views are on the matter," said Rowley. Told that the Attorney General had indicated the Opposition has offered its support, Rowley said the Opposition speaks for itself on this matter. He said discussions will continue. "We exchanged our advice and the Government agreed that they will do certain things and they will share with us information as they go along." Rowley added: "We are prepared to go in that direction, we have said it is unworkable, it is for the Government to show us that it is workable." The Opposition, said Rowley, is not out to score political points on this issue and is willing to lend full support once the Government convinces them that their approach was workable.l People, Power & Politics Saturdays 9pm to 10pm on 620AM & DiasporaRadio.com
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DIASPORA CONCERNS
Saying Goodbye on Mother’s Day
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BY DETENTION WATCH NETWORK
housands upon thousands of USborn citizens spent this Mother’s Day facing an uncertain future and a broken family. According to a March Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) report, 46,486 parents of US-born citizens were deported from the United States during the first half of 2011. In contrast, the New York Times reports that in the decade between 1998 and 2007, nearly 100,000 such parents were deported. An estimated 4 million USborn children have a least one parent who is an unauthorized immigrant. In a 2006 report to Congress ICE clarified that “our priority mission — and our greatest challenge — is to prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the United States” adding that “the mission of ICE is to protect America and uphold public safety by targeting the people, money and materials that support terrorist and criminal activities.” In August of 2011, ICE Director John Morton and the White House announced deportation prioritization guidelines (Prosecutorial Discretion or PD) to apply when ICE rules on a case. Thus far, ICE has complied miserably with the guidelines and out of a possible 53,000 reviews being conducted in Los Angeles alone, fewer than 220 people have received PD. Yearly deportation quotas blinds ICE into tearing families apart in spite of
humane options available, especially when US-born children or sick loved ones are involved and community ties are strong. Two women plead with ICE to help them stay with their US-born children this Mother’s Day. They represent no threat to society and they are honest, hard-working community members. These two women threatened with immediate deportation are parents of children, US-born citizens. Carmen has 2 US-born children and has worn an electronic ankle bracelet for the past 8 months while she awaits her final order of deportation within 10 days. She has already bought her plane tickets. Leonor is married to a legal permanent resident and is the primary caretaker of a develomentally-delayed boy, the oldest of her 3 US-born children. Both women may soon be deported. ICE has refused both of their requests for clemency. The rate of humane decision-making by ICE in at least 300,000 deportation cases clogging up the immigration court system has been so dismal, that watchdog Family Unity Commissions have been
these families pay the huge toll of banishment?” Rosemary Allegra, an American, just learned that her friend Carmen has been wearing an electronic ankle bracelet during the past 8 months and may soon be deported. “It makes me angry to know she has been treated this way. This is for bad people and by God she is not a bad person. Her family is very loving, hard-working, and they have reared their children the right way, trying to live the American way,” she adds.
established in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Washington, and Wisconsin. Los Angeles Commission member, Jessica Dominguez, stated: “It is urgent that we work together to find justice for these families and their US-born citizens. America is the country where these families have flourished and where they hope their children will be happy. Why make
Editor’s note: Deportation is the number one issue for the Caribbean Diaspora. Caribbean American Weekly urges our readers to become a U.S. citizen and protect yourself from deportation. Help keep your family together. Citizenship can protect you from deportation. Take advantage of our sister organization, the Immigrant’s Journal Legal & Educational Fund, Inc., Free Citizenship Assistance Program, known as “Deportation Inoculation.” Do not be dipped and dissed. Call 718-243-9431 for more information. l
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Keeping kids safe online: What every parent should know
B
y now, most parents are aware that the entertainment and educational value of the Internet also comes with risks, particularly for children. Protecting children from those risks is a vital concern for any parent whose child uses the web and any web-enabled device. Online child safety measures should encompass steps that protect children from a variety of threats - including damage to a child's reputation, contact from predators, spamming, bullying, and risks of identity theft. Here are some common online risks and what parents should know about how to protect their children:
Online reputation As soon as children become active online they need to understand that what they say and share on the Internet "lives forever." With a growing number of employers, colleges and universities including social media outlets in the background check process, teenagers' online activity could potentially impact their ability to be admitted into their college of choice and even their later job prospects. Protecting a child's online reputation can be a complex task. Consider parental help sites like SafetyWeb.com. The online tool provides targeted monitoring and customizable utilities to help parents
track their children's presence in cyber space. The tool filters mobile phone and Internet activity for both positive and risky behavior, provides parents with timely alerts, and allows parents to see accounts, photos, friends, tweets, posts, texts and calls through one convenient online dashboard.
Online predators The FBI notes that online predators often target children. Some invest a great deal of time, effort and even money into winning a child's trust, while others engage in immediate inappropriate behaviors and conversations with children. To minimize the risk of children falling victim to sexual predators, the FBI advises parents to make sure their children know to never:
* Arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone they met online. * Share pictures of themselves with people they don't personally know. * Provide identifying information like their name, address, school name or phone numbers. * Download pictures from someone they don't know. * Respond to inappropriate online communication. * Believe that everything they're told
FAMILY MATTERS
online is true. Email abuse As soon as children learn they can communicate with others via email, they'll want their own email accounts. As soon as they have an email account, they can become victims of spamming, junk mail, hijacking and malware. To minimize the risks of your child's email being abused, take these precautions:
* Teach children to not open emails, links, posts or online advertisements from someone they don't know. * Teach children to be wary of emails with attachments, even if they come from an email address they think they recognize. * Show kids how to create and use strong passwords. * Make sure your antivirus and security software is always up to date and active on computers and other mobile devices.
Cyberbullying Cyberbullying is an assault on a child's online reputation and self-esteem, often by other children. The National Crime Prevention Association (NCPA) defines it as the use of the Internet, cell phones or other electronic devices to "send or post text or images intended to hurt or embarass another person." The organiza-
tion says cyberbullying affects as many as half of all American teens. NCPA says children can help prevent cyberbullying by refusing to participate in it, speaking out against it when they see it occurring, blocking communication with cyberbullies, and reporting instances to adults they trust. Parents can also help by: * Developing rules for their children about cyberbullying and making sure the kids understand the rules. * Raising awareness of the issue within the community. * Sharing anti-cyberbullying messages and measures with friends.
Identity theft A 2009-2012 Carnegie Melon CyLab study of more than 42,000 children younger than 18 found that more than 10 percent had someone else using their Social Security numbers. The youngest victim was just 5 months old.
To reduce the risk of children falling victim to identity thieves, parents should protect minors' Social Security numbers. Never carry your child's Social Security card, and if a company, school or medical provider requests it, ask why it's needed and if you can provide some alternate form of identification. Teach children the importance of this valuable number and to never share it unless truly called for.l
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8
A Citadel of Hope in a Challenging Age
ills of society encompasses both the rich and the poor, the young and the old, the non-God fearing and the seemingly spiritual giants, where men and women irrespective of financial, academic or social status are caving in to the pressures of life itself, there stands in the heart of one of the world’s most challenging cities, Brooklyn, New York, a citadel of hope, the Advent Gospel Ministry. Founded May 15 2006, by Pastor Anthony O. James, this spiritual fortress and community refuge shines its rays of comfort, protection, shelter and love on all who would choose to bask in its warm glow. His mission statement: “To help others fulfill and demonstrate their true potential, spiritually, emotionally, socially, physically, financially and educationally, while maintaining discipline in love, friendship and unity in the site of God,is the hallmark of service one can pursue.” Pastor James, a native of Trinidad and Tobago, who has been in the ministry for over 15 years, is determined to help create positive change in today’s society due to his love for people and strong desire to reach out to youths. While his primary focus is the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ, he believes that the methods Jesus used while on earth, that of embracing the holistic needs of humanity, must be the foundation of any ministry and he intends to follow that example. The pastor feels that the location of his ministry on 488 Rockaway Avenue in Brooklyn is strategically placed since it
provides him with the opportunity to work with individuals from all walks of life within the surrounding community. Since the establishment of the ministry, it has touched thousands of lives through various programs. Every Saturday evening the ministry distributes food to the needy in collaboration with both the Mamre Seventh-day Adventist Church and the El B-naiRahael Jewish Food Outlet. Another project undertaken by Advent Gospel Ministry is its outreach program to youths within the immediate vicinity of Rockaway Avenue, as well as the Brownsville and Canarsie communities. Pastor James admits that this aspect of his work is particularly challenging since a number of gang-related activities between the Bloods and the Crypts take place in these communities: “I believe that God loves these young people as well and I am dependent on Him to guide me in this particular ministry. I have been able to talk with individual members of both groups and so far they are listening to what I have to say to them. Once they are apart from the respective groups, they exhibit good qualities. While the challenge is great, God is greater and change in their behavior will be inevitable.” Many of the young people he has encountered thus far are changing for the better, after being tempted by such social ills as gangs and drugs. But, nevertheless, he needs the help of the wider com-
FAITH IN THE COMMUNITY continued from page 1
munity and concerned individual volunteers to move the work forward. Pastor James said that Advent Gospel Ministry is open to anyone who has the problems of the community at heart and is willing to contribute toward change. In addition to working with youths, the pastor enjoys a close relationship with the 91st Police Precinct. On many occasions he served as the liaison between the police and the community to bring about resolutions to many problems. He also provides clinical counseling for those challenged by drugs, marital and domestic problems, and young people who are exhibiting delinquent behavior. His ministry also works with the mentally challenged, residents of group homes, and hospital outreach programs. Currently, he also works in conjunction with the Happy Home Academy, a private school servicing the area, providing spiritual guidance.
In order to reach the wider community of Brooklyn, Pastor James host a weekly radio show under the theme: “Operation Rescue.” The show focuses on youth issues and other social concerns that are affecting the community. It is aired on Saturdays between 7:30a.m. and 8:00a.m. on 620AM. On the Thursday evening show listeners are invited to call in and share their concerns and problems, and ask for prayers and personal visits. Pastor James is extending this invitation to the community: “The doors of Advent Gospel Ministry are open for all people and all religious persuasions. Our mission is to reach people and share Jesus Christ with them and to help them find joy and satisfaction in their lives.” Advent Gospel Ministry conducts worship services on Saturdays from 10:00a.m. to 1:30p.m. with a lively half hour of praise and worship, and a youth program from 4:30p.m. to 6:00p.m. On Wednesdays the ministry conducts its hour of power prayer and praise session commencing at 7: 30p.m. Pastor James says: “Advent Gospel Ministries is committed to spreading the gospel, and meeting the social and physical needs of our community. It is our motto to seek and save the lost. God has called us to His kingdom for such a time as this, and we must use every means of technology to spread the gospel to this dying world in these last days.”l
IMMIGRATION
House VAWA Bill Threatens Protections for Immigrant Women and Children
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BY MICHELE WASLIN
his year, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is up for reauthorization. Last week, the Senate passed a reauthorization (S. 1925) — which provides protection to people who are the victims of domestic violence, rape, trafficking, sexual assault, stalking, and similar crimes — by a vote of 68-31. The House will takes up its own version next week, but in contrast to the Senate bill, which strengthened protections for immigrants, the House bill threatens to rollback protections for immigrant women and children who are victims of abuse. VAWA has routinely received bipartisan support, including its protections for immigrant women who are victims of domestic violence. Immigrant women face specific challenges when they have an abusive spouse. For example, immigrants with abusive spouses can self-petition for a green card, thus removing their dependence on an abusive spouse for legal status. VAWA also created U visas for victims of crimes who cooperate with the authorities to investigate the crime and T visas for victims of human trafficking. The Senate bill expanded several protections for immigrant women and children including: • Allows for up to 5,000 additional U visas annually.
• Adds “stalking” to the list of criminal activities covered by U visas for victims. • Provides protections for minor children of self-petitioners who die before the petition is completed. • Provides that VAWA self-petitioners and applicants for T and U visas cannot be barred from admission on grounds they are a public charge. • Provides that children of the applicants of U visas will be covered on their parent’s application for a visa if they turn 21 before the application process is complete. • Adds protections for fiancées or fiancés on K visas from potentially abusive marriages. • Requires annual reports to be submitted on the outcomes of VAWA immigration cases.
However, the Senate bill also includes a provision added by Senator Grassley (RIA) that makes a third drunk driving (DUI) conviction an “aggravated felony,” meaning the immigrant is subject to mandatory deportation and denial of any benefits. The House will likely take up H.R. 4970, introduced by Rep. Sandy Adams (R-FL). While the details are still being worked out, the House bill appears intent on rolling back years of VAWA protec-
tions for immigrants. The House bill: • Does not allow for any additional U visas. • Allows alleged abusers to provide their side of the story and submit evidence to USCIS adjudicators. • Subjects victims to greater penalties for perjury or misrepresentation, including expedited removal. • Creates higher standards, including even more cooperation with law enforcement that U visa applicants must meet.
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• Moves adjudication of VAWA cases from the well-regarded, specialized adjudication unit in Vermont to local offices. VAWA is an important piece of legislation that deserves to be free from partisan battles over immigration issues. For many years, Congress has been able to agree on protections for immigrant victims, and we hope that this year will not be an exception.l
ALL IMMIGRATION MATTERS lGET THE FACTS
lBE SMART
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Church Leaders React to Obama....
continued from page 1
Lenworth Anglin, executive chairman of the Church of God in Jamaica. However, given America’s influence on countries such as Jamaica, he said the church should continue to remain vigilant. “We just have to monitor this thing very carefully as some of us have been already on the alert as church leaders. We have to make sure that we stick to what we believe in as a church, and proclaim that,” he said. President of the Independent Churches of Jamaica, Bishop Joseph Adegold, said he, too, was disappointed but not surprised given the financial backing Obama stands to gain from civil rights groups. “We are not sure why he would go to that length, but it is not surprising because he has been showing that sign for some time, that he is supporting gay marriages,” he said. President of the Jamaica Association of Evangelicals, Reverend Rennard White, said he too was disappointed and surprised, but felt the president’s endorsement would not have any adverse impact on Jamaica’s own political posture. “I wasn’t expecting that,” he said, before adding, “I know that he was very open in that respect and showed some kind of extremely liberal attitude, especially where the gay agenda and gay
community are involved. But I really didn’t expect him to go so far out. So, I am disappointed really with that. I understand, but I am really disappointed and I really disagree with his position.” Pastor of the Christ Light Assemblies in Spanish Town, Everton Thompson, believes that while Obama might have issued the statement to appease the more liberal Democrats in his constituent, he might have hurt his political ambitions in the process. “I think it is going to blow up back in his face. He did it to win the election, but it is going to blow up back in his face,” he stated. Both Archbishop of Kingston Donald Reece and Bishop of Jamaica and Cayman Islands Reverend Howard Gregory feel Obama’s stance would have been more widely accepted had he endorsed civil unions as opposed to gay marriages. “It’s not a matter of marriage as contrary to the Judeo Christian tradition, but it’s a matter of a civil arrangement whereby person’s with shared property, for instance — whether they be two women or a man and a woman — when they die, then the other one would get the benefit,” Bishop Reece pointed out. Gregory noted that while Obama’s statement might have given added motivation for gay rights groups, he could only speak as a world leader and did not have any moral or religious authority to speak for the church.
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“As far as his pronouncement goes with regards to equating same-sex gender with marriage, that is off the table for me and certainly for most Christians because that is an untenable position,” he said. Even so, he said some Christians would have supported him had he endorsed civil unions because that would be less problematic. “I think there is some merit to be said for civil unions; persons can have friendships of the same gender and it is their right to leave other persons their property and to have access to certain things if that person might want to share whatever benefit they are entitled,” he said. l
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Business Plan Competition for Diaspora
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BY JACQUELINE CHARLES MIAMI HERALD
ver thought of expanding or creating a new business in the Caribbean? The U.S. State Department in partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank and others has launched a business plan competition for the Caribbean. The plan is aimed at promoting jobs and economic growth in the region, and forging partnerships between members of the Caribbean diaspora in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, and entrepreneurs in the Caribbean. The Caribbean Idea Marketplace challenge fund will provide a $100,000 grant to each of the ten best business plans focused on business partnerships in the following countries: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago. The competition opened in March, and
interested entrepreneurs must submit concept ideas by May 30. Organizers will then select the best concepts and invite those entrepreneurs to submit an actual business proposal. Each will received $10,000 to help with plan preparation. The Caribbean Idea Marketplace competition was touted Friday at a University of Miami Center for Hemispheric Policy event in Miami. Among the qualifications: the company in the region must have $100,000 in assets, and the diaspora partner must be a legal resident or citizen of the U.S., Canada or the United Kingdom, or have a relevant connection or experience in the Caribbean. Applicants must be interested in expanding an existing business in the Caribbean or establishing a new one. This is not the first time the U.S. government has launched such an initiative. In 2008, the U.S. Agency for International Development announced that it had set up a $2 million investment fund to assist members of the Haitian diaspora who had a sustainable business plan and were willing to partner with Haiti’s private sector to create jobs. That fund was known as the Haiti Diaspora Investment Challenge Facility. It has since ended, say USAID officials. For more information on the Caribbean Idea Marketplace business competition email diasporacim@iadb.org or go to www.caribbeanidea.orgl
SMALL BUSINESS MATTERS
Local Chamber Offers Day of Opportunities to Entrepreneurs
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he New American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), established in October 2005, is having its Annual International & Multicultural Business Expo on Thursday, June 14, 2012, at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge. All businesses, chambers, entrepreneurs, budding entrepreneurs, professionals, non-profit organizations, clergy and youth are invited to this one-day business-to-business event. During the day, attendees will have the opportunity to network with other businesses and share information about their
products and services as well as attend educational seminars and workshops. Success starts on Thursday, June 14 from 8:00am. It’s one day, one location, endless opportunities. Don’t miss out on this event. Register to attend at www.mynacc.org or text MYNACC to 41411. Sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities are still available. Call 718722-9217 ext 112. Listen to the NACC Empowerment Hour every Saturday on 620AM and www.DiasporaRadio.com from 3pm to 4pm for updates.l
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NEWS
nHEALTH
nENTERTAINMENT
nRELATIONSHIPS
nRECIPES
nSPORTS
Toni Braxton to Headline 2012 St. Kitts Music Festival
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asseterre, St. Kitts: Six-time Grammy Award winner Toni Braxton will headline the upcoming 16th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival, which takes place from Thursday, June 28 to Saturday, June 30, 2012, joining an impressive lineup of artists for this year’s “Sweet Sixteen” event. Minister of Tourism & International Transport, Senator Ricky Skerritt, said the multi-platinum superstar will perform at Warner Park Stadium on Saturday, which is the last night of the festival. “We are proud to have Toni Braxton visit with us in St. Kitts to headline one of the most dynamic lineups for this year’s St. Kitts Music Festival,” Skerritt said. With more than 60 million albums sold worldwide Toni Braxton is recognized as one of the most outstanding voices of this generation with her distinctive sultry vocal blend of R&B, pop, jazz and gospel. Presently, Braxton is enjoying huge success with her Braxton Family Values reality show on the WE television network, however she is best known for songs like, “Another Sad Love Song,”
Caribbean Kitchen Corner
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BY KRISTY ALLRECIPES.COM
his yummy Cuban dessert can be served alone or with vanilla ice cream. Add a taste of Cuba to your dessert repertoire with this delightfully simple but unique dish. All you need are some bananas, brown sugar, butter, raisins, and pecans and you'll be on your way to a wonderful 'postre Cubano!' Ingredients 6 bananas, sliced lengthwise 1/2 cup light brown sugar1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces1/2 cup chopped pecans 1/2 cup raisins 1 tablespoon brandy
“Breathe Again,” “You’re Makin’ Me High,” “Unbreak My Heart” and “He Wasn’t Man Enough.” The addition of Toni Braxton completes an impressive St. Kitts Music Festival lineup, which includes Roberta Flack, Damian Marley, Omarion and other performers. For more information, visit www.stkittsmusicfestival.coml
Rihanna, Adele Lead 2012 Billboard Awards Finalists
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BY JUSTIN LIPSHUTZ BILLBOARD AWARDS
dele, LMFAO, Rihanna, Lady Gaga and Lil Wayne lead the finalists for the 2012 Billboard Music Awards, which will air live from the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas on May 20. Adele takes the lead as a finalist in 18 award categories, including Top Artist, Top Female Artist and Top Billboard 200 Artist. "Rolling In The Deep," the lead single from her blockbuster sophomore album "21," places the U.K. singer as a contender in seven song categories. Meanwhile, LMFAO is a finalist in 17 award categories, although the electropop duo actually scored 22 entries compared to Adele's 20. LMFAO and Adele will square off in the Top Hot 100 Artist category, which also includes Bruno Mars, Katy Perry and Rihanna. Speaking of Rihanna, the pop superstar
nHOROSCOPE
is a finalist in 13 categories this year, after leading the pack with 18 category appearances in 2011. Lady Gaga and Lil Wayne each snagged a spot in 10 categories, and will both compete against Adele, Rihanna and Katy Perry for the prestigious Top Artist prize. And the Top New Artist category features a diverse collection of fresh talent, with Bad Meets Evil, Big Sean, Foster The People, Scotty McCreery and Wiz Khalifa serving as the 2012 finalists.l
Directions 1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly butter a 9x13 inch casserole dish. 2.Cover the bottom of the prepared casserole dish with half of the banana slices. Sprinkle the bananas with half the brown sugar, butter pieces, pecans, and raisins. Form another layer with the remaining banana slices and repeat layering with remaining brown sugar, butter, pecans, and raisins. 3.Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes; remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle brandy over top of dish to serve. Nutritional Information Amount Per Serving Calories: 312 | Total Fat: 16.7g | Cholesterol: 31mg l
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HEALTH
Jamaicans Encouraged to Practice Healthier Lifestyles
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ix per cent of deaths worldwide are attributed to physical inactivity, which is said to be the principal cause of approximately 25 per cent of breast and colon cancers, 27 per cent of diabetes and 30 per cent of heart diseases. The World Health Organisation (WHO) also states that physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. It is against this background that the Ministry of Health is currently embarking on various initiatives that will promote healthy lifestyles among Jamaicans, in keeping with one of the most significant goals of the national development plan (Vision 2030), which speaks to the preservation and wellbeing of Jamaicans. Vision 2030 Jamaica is the country’s first long-term national development plan, which aims at enabling Jamaica to achieve developed country status by 2030. It is based on a comprehensive vision: “Jamaica, the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business." Director of Health Promotion and Education in the Ministry of Health, Ms. Takese Foga, states that the annual observance of ‘Move for Health Day’, on May 10 is one such initiative that the Ministry
utilises to encourage individuals to engage in physical activities. Additionally, Ms. Foga notes that the observance of the day and the promotion of these activities, form part of the Health Ministry’s thrust to “strengthen and expand on-going initiatives through collaboration with schools, senior citizens associations and other stakeholders." “Physical activity is a way of not just preventing, but controlling some of the diseases,” she said at a JIS ‘Think Tank’, on May 9. Ms. Foga also notes that it is pertinent that Jamaicans experience a shift from the perception that physical activity is just about participating in sports to the ideal notion that it is a way of life. According to the 2008 Jamaica Lifestyle Survey, more than 30 per cent of the Jamaican population is inactive, when compared to results obtained from studies done in 2000. The Lifestyle Survey also purports that only 33 per cent of Jamaicans are engaged in intensive physical activity. Essentially, Jamaicans are at great risk of contracting many of the non-communicable diseases, such as hypertension, heart disease and diabetes due to high rates of physical inactivity and the adoption of unhealthy lifestyle practices.
Commenting on the importance of physical activity and the plethora of health benefits that can be derived, Senior Health Education Officer, Ms. Charmaine Plummer, states that no matter how old you are, physical activity will help to improve your quality of life. Ms. Plummer said that there are several benefits to gain from being physically active, including the reduction of cholesterol as well as lowering the risk of developing hypertension and diabetes. “Physical activity does not only help to reduce the risk of developing hypertension and diabetes, it helps to regulate the flow of blood in the body and there is a reduced tendency for blood clots to form in narrow blood vessels,” she explained. “Every day is a day to move for health,” Ms. Plummer added, while pointing to the fact that exercise/physical activity aids in improving the wellbeing of individuals by decreasing the potentially harmful effects of stress, and promoting greater levels of concentration and productivity among students and employees.
In addition to the focus on May 10, there will also be health fairs, community sport days, workplace competitions and the hosting of health education seminars in many communities across Jamaica from May 10 to 31. l Source: Jamaican Information Service
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
How to Cope After a Divorce
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BY JENNINE ESTES
s a young girl, you might have dreamed of what your wedding day would be like. You put flowers in your hair, maybe with a tiara and a makeshift vail. And you run around the house screaming “I DO! I DO!” Almost every little girl has masterminded the details of their wedding before they are even old enough to drive. There’s something magical and nostalgic about thinking and dreaming of what your day will be like. And not once during the time you start planning, to the moment you finally say “I DO” does it ever occur to you that divorce is in the future. So how do you cope with divorce? People deal and cope in very different ways. Some may start a vicious cycle of destructive behavior ranging from binge drinking to promiscuous relationships, or worse, a new found drug addiction. This article will give you a few tips on learning how to cope after your divorce. Breathe... Now I realize breathing may not be the first thing that would have come to your mind, but breathing is the single most important thing you can do in any stressful environment. Give yourself a 10 minute time out. Whether you take a walk, lay down, or merely close your
eyes at your work station. Just breathe and try to relax. The mind can take a hold of you. Between the emotions you are feeling and working out the logistics of how to separate your assets, that is enough to make any sane person completely crazy. If you take the 10 minutes to focus on your breath you will find that after the allotted time, you will feel renewed and less stressed. Let your emotions flow. Some people have a harder time allowing their emotion to come freely. For others, it’s purely natural to cry on a whim. Crying or getting angry or even laughing at the situation are all healthy ways to release and grieve the relationship. Allow yourself to let out those emotions. Indulge in a Hobby or Interest. Whether you get decide to volunteer your time to a local charity or walk the aisles of the local flee markets for antiques, indulging in a hobby or interest will provide positive energy. It will put your thoughts at ease for at least the moments you are engaging your indulgence. The more time and energy that is spent on things that make you happy, the less time is spent on you thinking about your current situation. Change Your Vision. Whether you are in your 20’s or in your 50’s, your plans for your future are no longer set in stone.
It might be time for a vision adjustment. Because even though you may have never thought you would be in this position, the fact is that now you are. Create an ongoing list of possible visions you may want for the future. Maybe log this into a journal so you can retrace the steps along the way and watch how you have progressed. Trust me, this isn’t an easy assignment, nor will it appear in an hour. Rather this will be a process that will evolve and eventually take on a life form of its own...so take some time to truly think about the endless possibilities you have for yourself and your future. You Are Not Alone. People typically are hard wired to be connected with others. Because of this fact and this fact alone, there is no better time than NOW to reach out. Reach out to your family and friends. Join a support group of other divorcees. No matter what the outcome, you must know that you are not alone on this new path of single-hood. The emotional roller coaster of the “hows and whys did this happen to me,” are completely valid and normal. Surround yourself with others that may understand your journey of being a newly single adult. Embrace the banter back and forth of the ups, the downs, and the uglies. You just might find out that you aren’t the only one to feel the way you do. Re-define You and Your World. WAKE UP!!!!! Your marriage may be over, but you aren’t! This may be a tender time for you. And with everything you have it may feel almost impossible to
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feel positive, but it is time to WAKE UP! It is time to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get moving. Regardless of how long you and your spouse were married or together, relationships in general tend to start to define who we are or how we act and react in life. The most amazing and liberating feeling about what is happening now is that you get to redefine you...and who and what you have in your world. Start moving your ideas into action and start truly living for yourself. You will be so glad you did. l Jennine Estes is a liscensed marriage and family therapist living in San Diego, CA. She has appeared in both local and national media, such as Redbook Magazine, Social Worker and Today Magazine, and Whole Living Magazine, Fox 5 News. She specializes in all areas of relationships; singlehood, dating issues, conflicting couples, affairs, communication struggles, etc. For more information please visit www.estestherapy.com.
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The Caribbean Factor at London 2012
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SPORTS
BY RONDEL JOSEPH
his year 2012, according to the Mayan calendar, the world will come to a catastrophic end...Well at least in December. But before that, July is in the spotlight for the world’s top athletes as they head to London for the 2012 Olympic Games. The Caribbean will have another strong showing at this year’s games as we had in Beijing, because we are currently home to the world’s fastest man, the world’s fastest relay team, the world’s fastest 400m runner and the world 100m champion. The world’s eyes were open when Kirani James of Grenada took the Gold at the World Athletic championships in Deagu, South Korea, last year, and who can forget Usain Bolt’s blistering speed at the Beijing Olympic Games? Media reports in recent months have painted Bolt as a man on a mission—to defend and to beat his own world records in the 100m and 200m. Tunnel vision has also been used to describe his level of focus so much so that it may have led to his decision to split from his girlfriend, well that’s what I call commitment. Many Caribbean islands have not yet held their qualifying games but Usain Bolt, Veronica Campbell-Brown, Kirani James and Rondell Bartholomew are all
on their way to London 2012 because they are either Olympic champions or they have already ran qualifying times. With just over seventy days to go before the start of the games, athletes’ preparations have gone into over-drive and so too have our expectations. “I am looking forward to the 2012 games. I think we can sweep the 4X100m the 100m and the 200m; we have the expertise and experience, so I am confident that our athletes will have a good
showing in particular, Usain Bolt, Asafa Powel and Kirani James,” said Pastor Anthony O James After the strong showing at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 countries like the United States who captured the most medals on the athletic stage—23 and Russia, who was second with 18—are closely watching the Caribbean nations, in particular, Jamaica, who captured 11 medals in 2008 As one commentator asked, “What
are these athletes in thr CAribbean drinking in the water that’s making them so fast?” So it’s no doubt that our Caribbean ambassadors will have a lot of eyes on them, not only as they appear on the biggest stage but as they carry the hopes and dreams of their respective countries, and by extension, the entire Caribbean. They have, and will continue to do us proud. l
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18 NEWS
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
What Everyone Needs to Know about Estate Planning, Regardless of Income
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here's a common misconception among the American public that estate planning is only the domain of the elderly or the very wealthy. However, that's far from the truth. The fact is estate planning is something that can be done by people of any income level, and should be considered by everyone. If you haven't considered yourself as a candidate for estate planning, you might be underestimating the value of your assets. In fact, you might think of items like your home, your car and your life insurance simply as part of the background of your life, but they are, in fact, assets — and valuable ones at that. And if you've underestimated your need for putting together an estate plan, you're not alone. The unhappy result of failing to plan may be unnecessary fees, expenses and delays at a time when your loved ones are struggling to cope with loss. "As many as 120,000,000 Americans do not have up-to-date estate plans," says Clark McCleary, president of the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC). "That makes it one of the most overlooked areas of personal finance, but it's also one of the most important. Estate planning protects you, your family and your family's future, so it shouldn't be put off."
The complex nature of planning your estate might put some people off, but in that situation, a professional can simplify the process. Working with a team of professionals ensures that your plans are streamlined, understandable and clear-cut, to avoid confusion down the road. The economic challenges of the past few years have shown many Americans the importance of saving and making well-considered financial decisions. Even as awareness has grown, programs that support the development of financial literacy have also gained traction. As important as it is to create and maintain a household budget and use credit wisely, it's equally essential to include estate planning as part of an overall understanding of personal finances. For most people, the human element of estate planning is key, but it sometimes gets lost in the discussion of accounts and numbers. The most important thing to remember is that planning your estate well ahead of time - when
you're feeling your best and when you're calling the shots — ensures that your goals will be accomplished. Though young people often don't feel the need to take action, a well thought out plan is the best way to ensure that your wishes, from guardianship of young children to charitable intents to caring for older parents, are carried out the way you want them to be. Your plans can always be updated as life's inherent changes alter
the landscape, but establishing a starting point that clearly represents your wishes is the first step that needs to be taken. Giving yourself and your family peace of mind about the financial concerns of the future is a great gift. (ARA)l
Call 718-222-3155 for a register for a FREE Wills & Estate Planning Seminar.