DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHO
Immigrants in the US now required to carry federal ID at all times
The Department of Homeland Security has issued a sweeping directive that will affect nearly every foreign national in the United States, including H-1B visa holders, international students, and even Green Card holders. Under a renewed enforcement of the Alien Registration Act, all noncitizens must now register with the federal government and carry proof of registration at all times or face legal consequences
“President Trump and I have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream. The Trump administration will enforce all our immigration laws we will not pick and choose which laws we will enforce.”
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem
Broward Schools face $79 million funding loss, staff cuts loom
Broward County Public Schools (BCPS), grappling with a significant decline in student enrollment, is on the verge of a budgetary crisis, with Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn considering staff cuts as a potential solution.
Over the past decade, the district has seen a decrease of more than 37,000 students, yet staff numbers have remained disproportionately high a growing concern for district officials as the school year nears its end, as
reported by WSVN BCPS is now anticipating a further loss of approximately 8,800 students in the next fiscal year, which will result in a $79 million reduction in state funding Chief Financial
Officer Romanier Johnson presented a stark depiction of the district’s financial outlook during a recent school board meeting, where a graph clearly illustrated the gravity of the situation, the Miami Herald reported
To address the budget shortfall, the district has imposed a hiring freeze for central office positions and plans to reallocate staff to better align with the reduced student population
Currently, each middle school employs three assistant principals regardless of student enrollment, a staffing structure that Superintendent Dr Howard Hepburn suggests will be reevaluated
Board member Allen Zeman called the
situation a “house on fire kind of moment,” stressing the need for dramatic changes in the district’s staffing approach, the Miami Herald reported
However, board member Sarah Leonardi raised concerns about the human impact of potential layoffs She urged her colleagues to approach cuts with “precision and sensitivity,” emphasizing that the livelihoods of many staff members are at stake
In addition to staff reallocations, Superintendent Hepburn has proposed adjusting administrative workloads as a costsaving measure Yet, Broward Teachers Union President Anna Fusco countered the idea,
continues on B3 – Cuts loom
Aisha Bowe part of Blu Origin’s rst all-female space crew
Prime Minister Holness says PNP has derailed Jamaica republic transition US to screen immigrants’ social media for antisemitism
Vybz Kartel makes history with emotiona sold-out return to New York
Former Broward County Mayor Dale Holness, Lauderhill Mayor Denis Grant, Broward Commissioner Hazelle Rogers, MLC CEO Johnny Grave, and Broward Commissioner Michael Udine are pictured at the Major
Shenseea and singer Mya pose for
Miramar Commissioner Maxwell Chambers poses with a portrait done by Jamaican ar st Andy Ballen ne
Miami Gardens Councilwoman Linda Julien (le ) and Katrina Katrina Baskin (right) presented a check to
Miami Gardens Councilwoman Katrina Wilson (right) is pictured with a Miami resident at the 9th Annual Miami Carol City Chief Hall Picnic
Vybz Kartel is all smiles with Spice and Jamaican-Bri sh rapper Stefflon Don backstage at his New York concert on April 11
Miramar Vice Mayor Yve e Colbourne is pictured with bikers at the recent “Biking for Families” event hosted by the City of Weston
Bahamian-American Aisha Bowe part of
Aisha Bowe, a BahamianAmerican aerospace engineer and entrepreneur, etched her name into history on Monday, April 14, as one of six women aboard Blue Origin’s first all-female flight crew
The historic NS-31 mission lifted off from West Texas and reached the edge of space in a thrilling eight-minute suborbital journey The female-only spaceflight was the first since 1963, when Valentina Tereshkova of the former Soviet Union became the first woman in space Bowe is the first Bahamian-American to travel to space
Bowe’s participation wasn’t just a personal milestone it was a powerful symbol of Caribbean representation in space exploration As the New Shepard rocket ascended, Bowe held up a patch of the Bahamas in tribute to her heritage and family, particularly her 92year-old grandfather, born in Exuma, who watched proudly as his granddaughter touched the stars
“My call sign today is Exuma,” Bowe said in an interview with PEOPLE “It was a way to connect the past, the present, and the future of spaceflight This mission was bigger than me it was for everyone who dreamed before me and everyone who will dream after ”
Aisha Bowe joined an all-star flight crew that included pop icon Katy Perry, journalist Gayle King, philanthropist Lauren Sánchez, bioastronautics research scientist Amanda Nguyen, and film producer Kerianne Flynn
Cheers and laughter filled the capsule as the crew experienced weightlessness during the mission, which retraced a path originally flown by Alan Shepard a route that ultimately linked back to the Bahamas, Bowe noted
While this was Bowe’s first spaceflight, her journey to the stars has been anything but conventional Born to a working-class family, she was once encouraged to pursue cosmetology by a high school counselor Instead, she took a chance on a math class at Washtenaw Community College, a move inspired by her
“I want to see more Bahamians in science and technology,” she has said in past interviews. “This mission proves that those dreams are not only valid they’re achievable” – Bowe
father — a man who dreamed of becoming an astronaut himself That single class sparked a passion that led her to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in aerospace and space systems engineering from the University of Michigan
Aisha Bowe went on to work as a rocket
crew
scientist at NASA, developing air traffic algorithms and contributing groundbreaking research on fuel-efficient flight maneuvers In 2013, she founded STEMBoard, a tech company specializing in engineering solutions, and later launched LINGO, an ed-tech initiative that teaches coding through kits featuring NASCAR’s Bubba Wallace Both ventures aim to increase access to STEM education, especially for students from underrepresented communities
STEMBoard was ranked on Inc Magazine’s Inc 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in 2020 The company was also the recipient of the Nunn-Perry Award 2022 presented by the United States Department of Defense Bowe’s accolades are numerous — from the NASA Equal Employment Opportunity Medal to the 2024 Luminary Award at Black Enterprise’s Women of Power Summit and being named Essence Magazine’s POWER 40 Bowe was awarded 2024 Woman of the Year by STEM FOR HER for her work contributions to the field of aerospace engineering and commitment to inspiring and mentoring young women in STEM
But for her, the mission to inspire others, particularly young Bahamians, remains her most important work
“I want to see more Bahamians in science and technology,” she has said in past interviews “This mission proves that those dreams are not only valid they’re achievable ”
As Bowe’s New Shepard capsule safely returned to Earth, it brought with it not just six pioneering women, but also the hopes of a new generation, looking skyward and seeing themselves reflected in the stars
Aisha Bowe aboard Blue Origin’s spacecraft
Justice
Chile
Eboe-Osuji
sworn in as Caribbean Court of Justice Judge
Justice Chile Eboe-Osuji was officially sworn in on Tuesday as a judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), in a ceremony held at the President’s House in Trinidad and Tobago President Christine Kangaloo administered the oath of office, marking a significant milestone for the regional court
Eboe-Osuji, a Nigerian-Canadian jurist and former President of the International Criminal Court (ICC), replaces Justice Andrew Burgess, who retired from the CCJ on April 11 His appointment follows a competitive selection process by the Regional Judicial and Legal S i Commission (RJLSC), reviewed 26 applicafor the post Justice Eboe-Osuji is a ant legal mind and a jurist whose long and guished career has anned many countries and institutions,” said President Kangaloo
continues on A5 Eboe-Osuji
State of Emergency ends in Trinidad and Tobago
The State of Emergency (SoE) in Trinidad and Tobago officially ended on April 13, 2025, following 105 days of enforcement under special security regulations
The SoE, initially declared on December 30, 2024, by the then Prime Minister Keith Rowley, was intended to combat a surge in violent crime and a rapidly escalating murder rate At the time, Rowley described the situation as “alarming” and said the emergency measure was necessary to curb gang violence and protect public safety
Current Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Stuart Young echoed similar concerns when he took office, pointing to a deadly gang war that claimed six lives as one of the triggering incidents In his announcement, Young emphasized the urgency of protecting citizens from what could become a spiraling security crisis
On the final day of the SoE, 39 detainees were released from the Maximum Security Prison (MSP) at Golden Grove and the Eastern Correctional and Rehabilitation Centre (ECRC) in Santa Rosa, Arima Among these facilities, ECRC alone is expected to release approximately 36 detainees, all of whom had been held without formal charges under the emergency regulations
However, not all detainees are being released Eleven individuals remain in custody and are now facing criminal charges Revocation orders for the 39 detainees were signed by National Security Minister Marvin Gonzales on the morning of April 13, one day after orders were signed for the 11 individuals to be re-arrested and investigated further Three additional associates are also expected to be charged, bringing the total number of persons facing criminal prosecution to 14
During the SoE, police officers were granted expanded powers,
including the authority to search homes and individuals without a warrant if there was reasonable suspicion of criminal activity
Critics say these sweeping powers did not yield meaningful results, while raising concerns about civil liberties
As the country moves forward, the effectiveness of the SoE remains under scrutiny With crime still top of mind for many residents, the government is now under pressure to implement alternative strategies that address public safety without compromising personal freedoms
Montague: No election until JLP internal groundwork is complete
Prime Minister Andrew Holness will not call a general election until the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has completed its internal preparations, party chairman Robert Montague declared on Sunday
Speaking at a constituency conference in St Catherine East Central, Montague emphasized that while the general election is due by the end of the year, the party is taking a methodical approach to ensure every aspect of its campaign machinery is in place before
Holness makes the call
“Labourites as we prepare for the third term, a whole heap a people a run up on down and we want to say keep calm because your party is slowly getting ready,” he said
Montague made it clear that the readiness of each polling division (PD) is a nonnegotiable step in the process
“We cannot be ready until every PD is ready until every cluster is ready, so we want every worker to make sure that dem complete
them canvass,” he added
“We want every worker to make sure they have indoor and outdoor agents, runners and supervisors for every PD,” he stated
Pushing for accountability and personal responsibility within the party’s ranks, Montague stressed that the Prime Minister’s readiness is tied directly to the preparedness of the party’s base
“Andrew Holness cannot be ready for an election until every PD is ready, so if you know
your PD is not ready make sure to go out ah morning with you other workers and get your PD ready,” he said
Montague also disclosed that the JLP is finalizing its candidate slate, with only four seats remaining to be settled
“We are putting candidates in place, we now have only four seats left to settle and therefore, in the meantime, everybody has work to do,” he said
Acting Police Commissioner Junior Benjamin
Bahamas PM defends remarks on US cocaine smuggling indictment
Bahamas Prime Minister Phillip Davis has defended his remarks regarding law enforcement officers charged in a U.S. indictment in connection with a massive cocaine smuggling operation, claiming that they were victims of entrapment
In a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, Davis clarified that his comments about the case ’ s reliance on U S government agents and informants were grounded in the text of the indictment itself
“Regarding the prime minister’s recent observation that the US case appears to rely heavily on actions in response to US government agents or informants, that is not a matter in controversy – it is clear from the text of the indictment itself,” the statement said
The remarks followed sharp criticism from the opposition Free National Movement (FNM), which expressed concern over the Prime Minister’s stance Opposition Leader Michael Pintard, speaking to the Nassau Guardian, said, “When I heard the remarks, like other Bahamians, we were shocked, stunned, that the prime minister, who is no longer operating in the capacity of a defence attorney but as the chief executive officer of an independent country, would actually be making these kinds of statements ” Pintard also questioned Davis’s credibility, stating, “The statements seem contradictory immediately to me because the prime minister had claimed he had no knowledge of the details surrounding the matter and at no point has he come back to the public to indicate he had gotten additional information that would allow him now to come to the conclusion that he has drawn ” FNM Chairman Duane Sands also weighed in, labeling the prime minister’s comments as “ a joke ” Sands told reporters, “We can’t help but note the sudden shift in tone, from promising swift action and reform to casting doubt on the investigation’s legitimacy Just who or what is this government trying to protect?” Sands added, “We are talking about an indictment that alleges that corrupt officers were willing to facilitate
the movement of cocaine through our islands ”
The U S indictment, unsealed last November, names 11 Bahamians and two Colombians accused of transporting tons of cocaine from South America into The Bahamas and ultimately the United States Among those indicted were Chief Superintendent Elvis Curtis, who was in charge of the Airport Division at the time; Royal Bahamas Police Force Sergeant Prince Albert Symonette, who was later discharged; and Royal Bahamas Defence Force Chief
Petty Officer Darrin Roker, who was also discharged
The indictment alleges that Curtis told a trafficker that a high-ranking Bahamian politician could authorize law enforcement officers to assist with cocaine shipments in exchange for a US$2 million bribe
In response to the indictment, the Prime Minister’s office reiterated that the government took the allegations seriously and acted swiftly “From the moment the indictment was unveiled, the prime minister and his government have treated the allegations with the utmost seriousness and urgency, and chose not to wait for what may be a lengthy legal process to play out before taking action,” the statement said
The Office of the Prime Minister highlighted several actions taken since the indictment’s revelation, including the resignation of the police commissioner and the appointment of a new commissioner with a mandate for reform Additionally, new legislation has been introduced, including protections for whistleblowers and the establishment of an independent investigations commission to address police misconduct
She praised the CCJ for its continued commitment to excellence, calling the judge’s addition “another important step” toward fulfilling its vision
CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders welcomed the new appointee, expressing confidence in the impact he will have on regional jurisprudence “Mr Justice Eboe-Osuji has an impeccable record of service as a lawyer and jurist I have no doubt that he will make an important contribution to the development of our Caribbean jurisprudence,” Saunders said He also emphasized the independence and integrity of the judicial appointment process, describing it as “rigorous, competitive, merit-based, and entirely independent of any political involvement ”
Justice Eboe-Osuji brings extensive experience in international law, with expertise in criminal and human rights law His legal career includes practice as a barrister in Nigeria and Canada, appearances before the Supreme Court of Canada, and service as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights’ legal advisor He has also contributed to major courts around the world through amicus curiae briefs and served as a professor and published author
Speaking at the ceremony, EboeOsuji underscored the significance of the CCJ as both a court for interpreting the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and a final appellate court for CARICOM member states “There is no need to look beyond the seas for a final court of appeal, given the quality of judges we have on that Bench, and it is an incredible honour for me to have been selected,” he said
The CCJ, established in 2001, was created to replace the London-based Judicial Committee of the Privy Council as the final court of appeal for Caribbean nations Judges of the CCJ serve until the age of 72, while the Court’s President holds a non-renewable seven-year term
Prime Minister Holness says PNP has derailed Jamaica republic transition
Prime Minister Andrew Holness is accusing the opposition People’s National Party (PNP) of sabotaging the process of Jamaica becoming a republic, claiming they have politicized the process to prevent the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) from securing credit for a historic constitutional change
Speaking to a large crowd at the Jamaica Labour Party’s East Central St Catherine constituency conference on Sunday, Holness said the long-standing dream of removing the British monarch as Jamaica’s head of state has been derailed by partisan motives
“You can’t take what the PNP says because they only act in their convenience So the dream of many Jamaicans of our country becoming a republic has been dashed at the altar of PNP selfishness,” Holness declared “Primarily because they don’t want the Jamaica Labour Party to be credited with making Jamaica a republic They don’t want that because they know that we would go down in the annals of history as a party that repatriated our sovereignty They don’t want that ” The Prime Minister also accused Opposition Leader Mark Golding of backpedaling on previous commitments to support the transition
“The leader of the opposition stood up in Parliament and he said, I support it Yes, I believe we should move ahead forthwith because the support is on our side as well for Jamaica to become a republic,” Holness said “And I said, well, I have to take him at his word
and put in place a process to move Jamaica towards becoming a republic Only to hear after a long period of review and study and a report was prepared, only to hear that they change of mind They no longer want it ”
Holness also took issue with the opposition’s insistence on tying the move to a republic with Jamaica’s withdrawal from the UK-based Privy Council
“Now they say that they are going to tie it to the removal of the Privy Council, when that was never a part of the discussion And we were very clear that these matters have to move in a process ”
Jamaica’s transition to a republic — replacing the British monarch with a Jamaican head of state has received bipartisan support in principle, but the political divide has emerged over the sequencing of the changes
In January, Golding made clear that the PNP would not back the constitutional reform unless the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) replaces the Privy Council as Jamaica’s final court of appeal Speaking during the first meeting of the Joint Select Committee on Constitutional Reform, he posed four public questions to the Prime Minister, challenging
why the two reforms — ditching the monarchy and leaving the Privy Council — could not move forward together
Golding reaffirmed the PNP’s support for becoming a republic, “delinking from the British Monarchy and more,” but criticized the JLP for never publicly supporting withdrawal from the Privy Council He noted that the Government’s current bill shows an intention to leave the monarchy but stay with the UK court “It should be two, instead of one,” he argued, adding that “time come for full decolonisation ”
“How can the vast majority of the Jamaican people be left behind, particularly in a process of decolonisation, having already been made less fortunate by colonisation in the first place?” Golding asked
Meanwhile, Legal and Constitutional Affairs Minister Marlene Malahoo Forte recently confirmed that the transition process is more than halfway complete Speaking at a JIS Think Tank on March 19, she said the Constitution (Amendment) (Republic) Bill, 2024 is currently under review by a Joint Select Committee of Parliament
“With the Bill in Parliament, we are more than 50 percent along the way,” she said “Once the review is complete, the next step is debating and passing the Bill in the House of Representatives ”
However, the final step a national referendum will not coincide with the upcoming general election
Davis
Prime Minister Andrew Holness with King Charles III
CARICOM renews call for reparations for Haiti
As the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) strengthens its push for global reparations, Haiti has taken center stage once again
During remarks at the Fourth Session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett underscored the continued significance of Haiti’s case especially with a painful anniversary looming
“Reparations for Haiti continue to be central to CARICOM’s reparations claim April 2025 marks the bicentenary of the indemnity of 150 million Francs imposed on Haiti by France as reparations for loss of property, including enslaved Africans, and as a precondition for recognising the island’s independence,” Dr Barnett said
“The negative economic and social effects of this historical injustice are painfully clear, with arguable links to the situation in Haiti today This anniversary presents an opportunity to bring global attention and a deeper understanding of the situation in Haiti and serves as a call to action to address the ongoing security, humanitarian and governance crises in the country ”
Dr Barnett’s remarks were made during a session themed “Africa and People of African Descent: United for Reparatory Justice in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”, as the UN’s Second Decade for People of African Descent gains momentum The timing is also significant, with the African Union declaring 2025 the year of “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations ”
CARICOM has long championed reparatory justice, not only for Haiti but for the wider African diaspora impacted by colonialism and slavery The region’s reparations agenda is spearheaded by the CARICOM Reparations Commission, which has been actively collaborating with international bodies, including the African Union and civil society groups, to push for tangible redress
The Secretary-General highlighted growing Caribbean-African cooperation in this effort, citing milestones like the 2021 Africa-CARICOM Summit, a high-level African Union visit to Barbados in 2023, and the Accra Reparations Conference hosted by Ghana last November The movement is gaining traction ahead of the next CARICOM-AU Summit, scheduled for September 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Haiti government approves $275,000 'war budget'
Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) has approved a US$275,000 allocation to tackle the worsening security crisis as the country continues to battle armed criminal gangs threatening national stability
Described by the council as a “ war budget,” the funding will support both police and military efforts “to fight the armed groups that threaten national stability,” according to a statement issued by the TPC
Nearly 20 percent of the approved funds will be directed toward strengthening security at the border with the Dominican Republic Additional allocations will go towards social programmes and improvements in education, healthcare, and humanitarian assistance
The announcement comes as thousands of Haitians have been forced to flee escalating violence Last week, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reported that recent armed attacks in the communes of Saut d’Eau and Mirebalais displaced more than 30,000 people Most of the displaced have remained within the same department, with IOM and partners providing critical assistance, including food, hygiene kits, clean water, and psychosocial support
On Sunday, Caribbean Community (Caricom) governments issued a unified condemnation of the recent threats by Haitian criminal gangs to overthrow the
transitional government by force The leaders labeled the threats as “ completely unacceptable” and warned that any attempt to topple the governance structure through violence would deepen the country’s humanitarian crisis
The United States has since expressed support for Caricom’s statement, as well as for ongoing efforts by the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission Washington reaffirmed its commitment to assisting Haiti’s transitional government in restoring peace and stability
"The United States supports the statement by CARICOM condemning any actions to destabilize Haiti’s
launching deadly attacks that have claimed the lives of women and children
Transitional Presidential Council,” U S State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated
The MSS was endorsed by the United Nations Security Council in 2023 to help combat gang violence and rebuild order in Haiti Criminal gangs have been attempting to seize full control of the capital, Port-au-Prince,
EDITORIAL
Are people less religious or churches more irrelevant?
In accordance with Christian tradition, churches in the U S and across the Caribbean will be more crowded on Easter Sunday than on other Sundays Many churches report that turnout doubles on Easter. Pastors often identify Easter as the day with either their highest or second-highest attendance of the year
This high turnout suggests that Christianity remains strong and alive in the U S and the Caribbean However, many churches are concerned about declining attendance throughout the rest of the year This concern is especially pronounced among traditional churches, including Catholic, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Methodist denominations
The decline in church attendance raises the question: Are people less religious, or are churches becoming more irrelevant?
In the U S , there's a growing belief that people especially the youth are becoming less religious overall Surveys by Pew and Gallup show that more Americans now identify as “religiously unaffiliated,” including agnostics and atheists While belief in the Christian God remains relatively high compared to other countries, regular church attendance and traditional religious affiliation have dropped
A growing number of people find the church irrelevant to their daily lives Some churches are perceived as stuck in outdated ways of thinking or political stances that don’t resonate with younger or more diverse communities Many feel that churches fail to address real-world issues like social equality, same-sex relationships, climate change, and mental health or that they are too judgmental or politically charged
As mentioned earlier, the decline in attendance is more pronounced in traditional churches than in non-traditional ones Charismatic leadership in non-traditional churches often attracts larger congregations
Traditional churches are facing a cultural
shift: society, especially younger generations, is becoming more secular Many young people, unlike their elders, don’t feel obligated to attend church simply because it’s “the right thing to do ” As a result, a once-engrained habit is fading
These traditional churches also tend to maintain centuries-old worship formats, which some find boring or unengaging By contrast, non-traditional churches often offer passionate “praise” sessions, with emotional singing and bands heavy on percussion and drumming Sermons in non-traditional churches are often dynamic and centered on real-life issues or current events, while traditional sermons often stick to scripture-based themes with a more formal tone Many who consider themselves spiritual aren't drawn to the structure and rigidity of traditional churches, and instead find the more relaxed and flexible approach of newer churches more appealing
There are also youth who find neither traditional nor non-traditional churches appealing Although they believe in Christianity, they prefer to cultivate a personal relationship with God outside the church setting
Another significant factor keeping people
away from church is perceived hypocrisy among church leaders Scandals within the Catholic Church involving priests have driven some people away Similarly, controversies involving popular pastors of newer churches have shaken trust Many people are now seeking faith communities free from hypocrisy places where leaders address real-life issues and create an environment of acceptance, rather than judgment or exclusion
For religion and churches both traditional and non-traditional to regain relevance in American and Caribbean societies, efforts must be made to attract and engage youth
Churches and their leaders must be mindful not to appear judgmental Many young people have strong convictions about issues like LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and gender equality They don’t feel churches are safe spaces for open discussion or for being their authentic selves
Churches must also recognize that today’s youth are eager to be part of community initiatives Many young people now find their communities online, especially through social media Churches need to find meaningful ways to offer real, relevant community that competes with these digital spaces
Moreover, with busy schedules filled with school, sports, work, and social activities, church is losing its place as a priority When churches fail to adapt or integrate into modern life, people especially the youth gradually drift away
The internet, with its vast access to information, has exposed people to alternative worldviews, scientific perspectives, and critiques of religion If churches can't respond effectively and credibly to these challenges, faith and religion will continue to lose influence
The large turnout at Easter services shows that the roots of Christianity remain strong for many But for churches especially traditional ones to thrive, they must evolve and become more relevant to people’s lives year-round
Judge blocks termination of legal status
A federal judge in Massachusetts has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s attempt to terminate humanitarian parole for more than half a million immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela halting what she called an “unlawful action” that could have stripped them of legal status and work authorization in the United States
In a 41-page ruling issued Monday, U S District Judge Indira Talwani granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) in favor of the plaintiffs immigrants from the four countries who filed suit in February with support from the Justice Action Center and Human Rights First The lawsuit challenges the administration’s move to end previously granted parole and work authorizations without conducting individual case reviews
“Plaintiffs were paroled into the United States by complying with the immigration processes made available to them,” wrote Talwani, an Obama appointee “As lawful parolees, they did not have to fear arrest for being in the United States, were permitted to legally work if they received work authorization, and could apply for adjustment of status or other benefits while paroled into this country ”
Talwani emphasized that abruptly ending the plaintiffs’ parole would have caused their lawful status to lapse “in less than two weeks,” forcing them to either leave the U S voluntarily or face removal proceedings
An estimated 110,240 Cubans, 211,040 Haitians, 117,330 Venezuelans, and 93,070 Nicaraguans have entered the United States under the “CHVN” parole program,
according to the Miami Herald Many of them have settled in South Florida, often under the sponsorship of relatives, and are pursuing asylum or other legal protections
Talwani noted that the consequences of terminating their parole status are severe “If Plaintiffs remain in the United States and await removal proceedings, they may be subject to arrest and detention, they will no longer be authorized to work legally in this country and their opportunities to seek any adjustment of status will evaporate,” she wrote On the other hand, leaving the country voluntarily would expose them to danger in their home countries and could “moot” their legal claims
The Trump administration, through Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, argued that terminating parole falls under the Secretary’s discretion and that individuals could apply for renewed immigration benefits during removal proceedings But during a recent court hearing, Justice Department attorneys acknowledged that
most benefits would not be renewable once individuals lost lawful status or were placed in expedited removal
“Even if Plaintiffs can renew requests for certain benefits, some requests may very well be denied simply because Plaintiffs would no longer be in lawful status,”
Talwani wrote “Defendants are defending the FRN [Federal Register Notice], which states that the revoking of parole is designed to ensure expedited removal while acknowledging that Plaintiffs could not renew most immigration benefits requests if placed in expedited proceedings ”
The ruling comes amid ongoing legal battles over immigration policy, with deportation and parole programs continuing to stir national debate Talwani’s decision offers temporary relief to immigrants affected while the court considers the broader legal arguments
US moves up priority dates for spouses and children of green card holders
The U S Department of State has made notable advances in visa processing for familysponsored immigrants in the May 2025 Visa Bulletin, including key changes for spouses and children of lawful permanent residents (LPRs)
These updates will impact applicants worldwide, including those from the Caribbean, providing clearer timelines for submitting documentation to the National Visa Center (NVC)
One of the most significant updates is the advancement of the F-2A category, which includes spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of permanent residents The Final Action Date for the F-2A category has moved forward by three months and two weeks, now set to February 1, 2025, for applicants from all countries, including the Caribbean This is a notable shift from the previous date of October 15, 2024, making it easier for families to submit their applications and reunite faster This advancement applies not just to general applicants, but also to those from China, India, Mexico, and the Philippines, all of which now share the same updated cut-off date of February 1, 2025 a significant improvement from the previous date of October 15, 2024. For families in these countries, including those in the Caribbean, this change means faster visa processing and a smoother path toward family reunification in the U S
For the F-2B category, which covers unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of permanent residents, the final action date remains January 1, 2017, for most countries However, applicants from Mexico still face a longer wait, with a final action date of April 1, 2007, and applicants from the Philippines have a final action date of October 1, 2013
continues on B1 – Priority Dates
Judge Indira Talwani
STRICTLY LEGAL
US to screen immigrants’ social media for antisemitism
The U S Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that as of April 9th, it will now scrutinize the social media activity of foreign nationals applying for immigration benefits, with a specific focus on antisemitic content
Under new guidance issued by U S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), posts expressing support for antisemitic violence or terrorist organizations such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, or the Houthis (Ansar Allah) could lead to visa denials or the loss of immigration eligibility
The policy, which takes effect immediately, will apply to foreign students, lawful permanent resident applicants, and others affiliated with educational institutions tied to antisemitic activity It stems from a broader Trump administration push to combat antisemitism and block entry to individuals deemed national security threats
“There is no room in the United States for the rest of the world’s terrorist sympathizers, and we are under no obligation to admit them or let them stay here,” said DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin “Sec Noem has made it clear that anyone who thinks they can come to America and hide behind the First Amendment to advocate for anti-Semitic violence and terrorism – think again You are not welcome here ”
The directive follows multiple executive orders signed by President Trump, including Combatting Anti-Semitism and Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists Under the new USCIS guidance, online expressions of support for antisemitic terrorism, ideologies, or organizations will be treated as a serious red flag in any immigration review
This marks a sharp shift in immigration enforcement by making online activity a central factor in determining whether a noncitizen poses a threat to public safety or national security DHS emphasized that this is part of a wider effort to use every available tool to keep extremist ideologies out of the country
In the F-1 category, for unmarried children (aged 21 and older) of U S citizens, there has been no movement The final action dates remain unchanged at September 1, 2017, for all countries except for Mexico, which continues to have a cutoff date of April 1, 2006, and the Philippines, which has a final action date of April 22, 2015
For the F-3 category, which covers married children of U S citizens, there has been no change in the cut-off dates:
• All Other Areas: July 22, 2012 (No change)
• China: July 22, 2012 (No change)
• India: July 22, 2012 (No change)
• Mexico: June 15, 2001 (No change)
• Philippines: September 22, 2004 (No change)
In the F-4 category, which applies to siblings of U S citizens, the final action dates have moved forward for certain countries:
All Other Areas: June 1, 2008 (Advance of 2 months from April 1, 2008)
• China: June 1, 2008 (Advance of 2 months from April 1, 2008)
• India: October 1, 2006 (No change)
• Mexico: April 30, 2001 (No change)
• Philippines: January 1, 2008 (No change)
For the Dates for Filing chart, which allows applicants to begin submitting their documents earlier, applicants in the F-1 category, for unmarried sons and daughters of U S citizens, can submit documents if their priority date is earlier than September 1, 2017, for most countries and April 1, 2006, for Mexico
The F-2A category has a filing date of February 1, 2025, for all countries, including the Caribbean Applicants in the F-2B category can file if their priority date is earlier than January 1, 2017, for all chargeability areas, while applicants from Mexico can file if their priority date is earlier than April 1, 2007, and applicants from the Philippines if their priority date is earlier than October 1, 2013 Similarly, applicants in the F-3 category may file if their priority date is earlier than July 22, 2012, and for F4, the filing date is June 1, 2008
These changes in the May 2025 Visa Bulletin offer hope for quicker reunification, especially for families in the Caribbean seeking to join their loved ones in the U S
COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA
Broward School Board extends Superintendent Hepburn’s contract
Broward County School Superintendent
Dr Howard Hepburn received a unanimous vote of confidence from the School Board this week, as members approved a contract extension that will keep him in the district’s top leadership position through June 2030
Board members applauded following the vote, signaling their support for Hepburn, who was brought on last year after a period of leadership instability in the district
“First of all, I sincerely thank the board for your faith and trust in me,” Hepburn said after the vote “I don’t take this responsibility lightly and I plan to make you proud through my continued work and leadership ”
The new contract extends his term from 2027 to 2030 and includes a $10,000 raise, bringing his salary to $360,200
Since taking the helm, Hepburn has received strong praise from both school officials and the broader community “It’s been a long time that I’ve worked in this district and I’ve seen a lot of superintendents come and go, I’ve seen a lot of boards come and go, and I’ve long hoped that we would have a superintendent of this quality in this district and we finally do,” said Lisa Maxwell, Executive Director of the Broward Principal and Assistants Association
Board member Jeff Holness also credited Hepburn for significant academic progress across the district “Since Dr Hepburn came onboard, we can confidently say we do not have any Ds or Fs schools We became an Arated school district under his leadership,” Holness said
While grateful for the support, Hepburn e m p h a s i z e d t h e w o r k t h a t l i e s ahead particularly as the Broward school district faces challenges with declining enrollment. Hepburn projected a budget shortfall of $75 to $80 million
“While I’m proud of what we ’ ve accomplished together, I know there’s still much to do,” he said. “We’ve done the initial parts of a lot of things that we wanted to do this year, but as everybody knows, when you want to see change, when you want to innovate, when you want to create better opportunities for our students, and in turn, create better opportunities for our entire county, it takes time ”
He noted that staffing levels have increased slightly even as enrollment continues to dip, calling the situation “out of whack” during a meeting last week “We’re working on a plan that we’re going to provide to our board about how we ’ re going to address some concerns immediately,” Hepburn added
Miami-Dade residents can now renew vehicle registrations at Publix
In a new initiative to improve accessibility and convenience, MiamiDade residents can now handle their vehicle registration renewals at select Publix Supermarkets The Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s office announced the launch of self-service kiosks that allow residents to renew and print their vehicle registrations and tag decals in minutes
The kiosks are strategically placed in high-traffic locations across Miami, Miami Beach, Doral, and Homestead, providing an easy and efficient way for residents to complete their vehicle registration renewals while grocery shopping These self-service kiosks aim to save time and eliminate the need for a trip to the Tax Collector’s office
Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez expressed the importance of this service, saying, “Our responsibility is to make government more accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of our residents By introducing self-service kiosks in familiar, everyday locations, we are removing barriers and modernizing how residents interact with essential public services I want to thank Publix for its collaboration and commitment to community service; this partnership is helping us deliver convenience where it matters most ” Miami-Dade residents can now renew vehicle registrations at Publix Supermarkets
The kiosks are currently available at five Publix locations:
• 15771 Southwest 152nd Street, Miami
• 20201 Southwest 127th Avenue, Miami
7550 Northwest 104th Avenue, Doral
• 1920 West Avenue, Miami Beach
• 891 N Homestead Boulevard, Homestead
To use the kiosk, residents will need their registration renewal notice PIN or their license plate number, along with the registered owner ’ s birthdate and a credit card The transaction can be completed in less than two minutes, though a small convenience fee will apply No appointment is necessary, and there’s no need to wait in line at the Tax Collector’s office
Cuts loom
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arguing that schools are already “understaffed in all phases” and warned that classroom cuts should be a last resort, according to the Miami Herald While Dr Hepburn acknowledged that changes are necessary, he assured the board that mass layoffs are not on the table He did note, however, that the district is overstaffed by an estimated 2,000 positions and that significant adjustments are likely in the upcoming school year
Adding complexity to the budgetary situation, BCPS approved salary increases in March for teachers, principals, assistant principals, and other educational leadership staff an investment of more than $31 million
Additionally, several employee groups, including the Broward Teachers U n i o n – E d u c a t i o n a l S u p p o r t Professionals (BTU-ESP), Broward Teachers Union – Technical Support Personnel (BTU-TSP), Confidential Office Personnel Association (COPA), and the Police Benevolent Association (PBA), received 3% raises
Hepburn
COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA
Jamaican Judge Jackie Powell elevates Broward Inn of Court to Platinum status
For the first time in its 33-year history, the Stephen R. Booher American Inn of Court has earned Platinum status, the highest recognition awarded by the National American Inns of Court. The honor comes under the leadership of JamaicanAmerican Broward County Judge Jackie Powell, who serves as president of the Inn
The Stephen R Booher American Inn of Court is a professional legal organization that fosters mentorship, ethics, and excellence among judges, attorneys, and law students in Broward County. Platinum status is the highest recognition given by the National American Inns of Court, awarded for excellence in administration, program development, mentoring, and outreach activities
Judge Jackie Powell, who made history in 2018 as the first Jamaican American woman elected as a judge in Broward County’s 17th
Judicial Circuit, is being recognized not just for breaking barriers but for raising standards
The Inns of Court organization evaluates local chapters on criteria such as administration, communication, mentoring, outreach, and program development While the Booher Inn had maintained gold status for the last four years, this marks its first time reaching
the top tier “All of us in the 17th Judicial Circuit are so proud of this organization,” said Chief Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips “We thank the judges, attorneys and students for volunteering their time and commitment to excellence in mentoring and professionalism ” Under Judge Powell’s leadership, the Inn
has expanded its community outreach In December, members adopted a foster family for the holidays, fulfilled the children’s wish lists, and presented the gifts during a holiday reception
The Inn’s mentoring efforts also include law students from St Thomas University’s Benjamin L. Crump College of Law and Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law—ensuring future lawyers benefit from hands-on guidance from seasoned legal professionals
“I truly believe in the principle of leaving something better than you found it,” said Judge Powell
The Stephen R Booher Inn of Court will be recognized at the Inns of Distinction Gala at the U S Supreme Court this July cementing its place among the top legal mentoring organizations in the country and spotlighting Broward County’s commitment to legal excellence
Scan the Code
In a statement Friday, Noem said the government would no longer allow selective enforcement of immigration laws, warning immigrants that failing to register could result in fines, jail time, or both
The change stems from Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, signed by President Trump on January 20 The order calls for strict immigration enforcement and revives long-dormant provisions of the Alien Registration Act first enacted in 1940 requiring all noncitizens who remain in the U S for more than 30 days to register with the government
According to DHS, the following rules now apply:
• All noncitizens who have been in the U S for more than 30 days (as of April 11, 2025) must register immediately through USCIS
Noncitizens entering the U S after April 11 must register within 30 days of arrival
• Children turning 14 must re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday even if previously registered
• Parents or guardians must register minor children who stay in the U S longer than 30 days
Once registered and fingerprinted, immigrants will receive official documentation All noncitizens age 18 or older are required to carry this proof at all times
While the law itself isn’t new, its enforcement under this administration marks a significant shift Previously, the registration requirement had rarely been enforced or publicly emphasized
“This administration has directed DHS to prioritize enforcement,” Noem said “There will be no sanctuary for noncompliance ”
American Friends of Jamaica donates over J$100 million for social projects
At the recent charity banquet in Miami, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) announced a generous donation of over $100 million (approximately US$650,000) to support various social projects and organizations in Jamaica.
The event, held on April 5, marked another milestone in the AFJ’s ongoing efforts to assist local Jamaican groups in need Lee Issa and Paul Issa were also honored at the gala
According to AFJ Executive Director Caron Chung, the organization organizes two major fundraisers annually in the United States to generate funds for Jamaican social initiatives “One is held in Miami in April or May, and the other in New York, usually in October Proceeds from both those galas are combined to fund our discretionary grants program In November, we put out an announcement inviting applicants to submit their applications for grants through AFJ,” Chung explained
During the event, AFJ recognized two esteemed honorees for their contributions to nation-building Lee Issa, chairman of Couples Resort, and Paul Issa, chairman of the Issa Trust Foundation, were celebrated for their work and commitment to Jamaica
This year, the AFJ received 79 grant applications, which are reviewed through a stringent process, Chung added “We have a very stringent process We announce it on social media, on the radio, and on the television On our website, afj org, the application is found there, and the list of criteria. Entities have to be registered charities in Jamaica and have to have a board of directors with someone accountable for finance,” she said
Through its funding program, AFJ continues to have a significant influence on social development, healthcare, and early childhood education initiatives in Jamaica Chung emphasized, “We all come together and we contribute to the nation-building of this country The onus is not only on Government and private sector The Government, private sector philanthropists, we all have a role to play in this, and the AFJ has been contributing significantly over the
years to programmes in Jamaica ”
Prime Minister Andrew Holness served as the main speaker at the gala, accompanied by Senators Audrey Marks and Delano Seiveright, as well as various government ministers Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was also present at the event
In total, AFJ awarded US$740,000 in grants to 54 grantees, supporting several initiatives across the island These initiatives include education, music, sports, healthcare, skills training, gender-based violence programs, arts, coding, veterinary care, environmental protection, schoolfeeding programs, and peace-building efforts, among others
At the AFJ’s awards ceremony held at the U S Embassy in Kingston on April 8, certificates were presented to the grantees Minister of Education, Skills, Youth, and Information, Senator Dr the Hon Dana Morris Dixon, praised AFJ for its continued
legacy of support “For over four decades, the American Friends of Jamaica have remained a pillar of support for our country Their legacy is etched into the walls of our hospitals, the classrooms of our schools, and the hearts of our people,” Dr Morris Dixon said She further emphasized the importance of partnerships in the country’s development, stating, “We need partners like the AFJ who understand that sustainable development and transformation in education are built on trust, collaboration, and long-term investment ”
AFJ President Wendy Hart also highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, funders, and NGOs “We are at our strongest when government, funders and NGOs can work together It is also important that we all continue to prioritise impact,” she noted
Charge d’Affaires Amy Tachco expressed her admiration for the AFJ’s unwavering commitment, stating, “Your generosity and dedication continue to make a profound impact, ensuring essential resources reach those who need them most ”
Founded in 1982, AFJ is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has been instrumental in providing financial support to Jamaican charities, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic development
Judge Jackie Powell Chung
ENTERTAINMENT
Vybz Kartel makes history with emotional, sold-out return to New York
Historic. Emotional
Unprecedented. Those are just a few of the words being used to describe the triumphant return of Vybz Kartel to the U S. stage after 20 years and his first performance since regaining his American visa in January
The “King of Dancehall” made his longawaited comeback with two back-to-back, sold-out shows at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on April 10 and 11, each pulling in a crowd of around 19,000 fans
Presented by Reggae Fest, the two-night event wasn’t just another tour stop it was a coronation Vybz Kartel is now the first dancehall artist to sell out Barclays Center, and he did it twice in a row, cementing his place in music history
But beyond the numbers, the venue itself added deeper meaning Brooklyn has long been one of the beating hearts of Caribbean culture in the U S home to generations of Jamaicans, Trinidadians, Haitians, Guyanese, and other communities that grew up on dancehall, reggae, and soca Add to that the African-American audience that has always embraced Jamaican sound system culture, and you get a borough where Kartel’s music has never stopped playing, even during his time behind bars Performing at Barclays wasn’t just about filling seats it was about touching the core of the diaspora Night one had the energy of a homecoming and the emotional weight of a redemption arc After serving 13 years in prison, Kartel freed just last year took the stage with a new sense of purpose He told fans he’s changed, putting God and family first That sentiment came to life when he got visibly
emotional during the performance of his latest track, God Is the Greatest “Far mi a come from, what a journey, good thing, God got me,” he sang, fighting back tears
The lineup for night one was stacked: Dyani, Jah Vinchi, Rvssian, and Blak Ryno (who notably missed Kartel’s Freedom Street show in Jamaica) delivered great performances Busta Rhymes and Spice lit up the stage, while big names like Dexta Daps, Elephant Man, Stefflon Don, Buju Banton, and Cardi B, among others, looked on from the crowd and backstage It was Cardi who later put the scale of the night into perspective, saying, “(I’ve) never seen it (Barclays Center) this packed ” Night two pushed the envelope even further Lil’ Kim, Fabolous, and Neyo all joined Kartel, with Neyo delivering his hit Miss Independent a nod to Kartel’s own remix of the track with Romping Shop In addition to some of the musical acts who performed on night one, YG Marley, Kraff, Chronic Law, Kranium, Ishawna, and
touching moments of the entire concert: Kartel bringing out his mother onstage to honor her with the song Mama The crowd roared in appreciation for the woman behind the man The entire dancehall community felt the magnitude of the moment Bounty Killer took to Instagram to offer praise:
“God’s work never been done by no other dancehall artiste b4 back to back sold out shows same city Don’t say Buju bcuz he’s now a reggae artiste Not even Jay-Z ever sold out Barclays like that His life is a true testimony that there’s a true and living God among us Dancehall in its rightful space again right now
Skillibeng helped amplify the night’s intensity Shenseea also hit the stage for the first time with Vybz Kartel to perform Loodi, the breakout single he wrote for her Ghanaian star Moliy also stunned with her viral hit Shake It to the Max, sharing the stage with Shenseea and Skillibeng Popcaan, who couldn’t attend due to visa issues, still made a cameo via FaceTime as Kartel performed their classic collab Clarks
Both nights featured one of the most
If it’s not unity, leave dancehall community ” What Vybz Kartel did at Barclays wasn’t just a record-breaking comeback It was a fullcircle moment A celebration of resilience, legacy, and the power of music to transcend even the darkest chapters. And for two unforgettable nights in Brooklyn, dancehall was the heartbeat of the city
Reggae legend Max Romeo dies at 80
Max Romeo, the legendary Jamaican reggae artist known for classics like “Chase the Devil” and “War Ina Babylon”, has died at the age of 80 Romeo passed away on April 11, 2025, in a hospital in Saint Andrew Parish, Jamaica, from heart complications His death comes just months after he filed a landmark US$15 million lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Polygram Publishing, alleging nearly five decades of unpaid royalties, according to World Music Views Romeo had taken to Instagram earlier this year to publicly share the details of the case, which he said involved 47 years of missing payments for some of his most iconic recordings The lawsuit had begun drawing renewed tt ti t l standing issues and compensatio reggae industry
Born Maxwe Smith in St D’A Romeo left hom started working plantation in Cl winning a local ta at 18, he moved to pursue music H career included a with The Emotio a vocal trio, befo he launched a so path in 1968
R o m e o fi r stirred intern t i o n a l c o n t r v e r s y a n success with h risqué hit “W Dream”, banned b the BBC but still Top 10 single in t
UK By the mid-1970s, he had firmly established himself in the roots reggae movement, especially through collaborations with legendary producer Lee “Scratch” Perry Their 1976 album War Ina Babylon is widely considered a cornerstone of conscious reggae, featuring the widely sampled anthem “Chase the Devil ” A supporter of Jamaica’s People’s National Party, Romeo’s music often blended political commentary and Rastafarian themes His track “Let the Power Fall” became the party’s anthem during the 1972 general election Later in his career, Romeo experimented with musical theater in New York, collaborated with The Rolling Stones, and eventually t d t J maica, continuing to m u s i c i n t o t h e cluding a family ith his sons and i t e d e c a d e s o f c e a n d a r i c h hy, Romeo’s battle gnition and fair ation persisted into ears, culminating in gh-profile lawsuit st UMG While his ing marks the end of era, it also undero r e s a l a r g e r onversation in the m u s i c i n d u s t r y about legacy, rights, and justice for foundational artists like Max Romeo
SPORTS
Broward County Stadium set to ignite with Major League Cricket
With a roar of anticipation and the energy of a growing global movement, Cognizant Major League Cricket (MLC) has officially announced its triumphant return to Broward County Stadium this summer
From July 1 to July 6, the sun-soaked grounds of Lauderhill, Florida, will host nine electrifying matches including a marquee game on Independence Day in what promises to be a celebration of world-class cricket and community spirit
This marks the first time Broward County Stadium will welcome MLC games, and the moment couldn’t be more perfect Riding the wave of excitement following the T20 World Cup and a series of high-profile international matches, the venue now stands ready to serve as a critical launchpad for cricket’s explosive growth in the United States
“Broward County Stadium is an exceptional venue for Major League Cricket, and we ’ re excited about the possibility of hosting some of the world’s top cricket stars at such a great cricket facility,” shared Johnny Grave, CEO of Major League Cricket
Broward County Stadium, no stranger to top-tier cricket, previously dazzled fans with international showdowns between India and the West Indies in 2022 and 2023. In response to the surging demand and swelling fan base, the stadium recently underwent a transformation Among the enhancements: covered grandstand seating for 8,150, a stateof-the-art broadcast center, fiber-optic upgrades, and a six-lane natural turf batting cage, turning it into a premier destination for elite cricket in the U S
“We continue to remain committed to the development of cricket and have engaged the y o u t h i n B r o w a r d C o u n t y , ” s a i d Commissioner Hazelle Rogers “This elite level of cricket highlights our stadium’s importance I can’t wait for the games and look forward to seeing everyone there ”
For Jamaican-American Lauderhill
Mayor Denise D Grant, this moment is a citywide triumph an intersection of vision, investment, and the unstoppable rise of cricket
“This event not only showcases elite-level cricket but also solidifies Lauderhill’s position as a premier destination for international sports,” Mayor Grant remarked “As cricket makes its Olympic debut in 2028, we are poised to see a surge in interest and participation ”
The 2025 season of MLC comes on the heels of cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking its return to the global games after more than a century For fans and future players alike, this signals a golden opportunity
The Cognizant MLC 2025 Season will be the largest professional cricket tournament ever held in the United States, showcasing 34 thrilling matches across three iconic venues:
• Oakland Coliseum, California: June 12–18
• Grand Prairie Stadium, Texas: June 20–29
• Broward County Stadium, Florida: July 1–6
• Playoffs & Championship Final: July 8–13 in Grand Prairie
“We are ready to welcome MLC, new cricket players, and more fans into the newly renovated Broward County Stadium!” said Dan West, Director of Parks and Recreation “These matches will emphasize our County’s commitment to this growing sport ”
With base tickets starting at just $20 and venue passes available for only $100 during April’s Early Bird promotion, fans from all walks of life can immerse themselves in the action Whether you ’ re a seasoned supporter or a newcomer curious about cricket’s fastpaced format, this is your chance to be part of history
Fraser-Pryce teases retirement after 2025 season
Jamaican sprint icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is preparing to bring the curtain down on her legendary career, with her representative confirming plans for retirement following the 2025 track season
The news was confirmed to NBC Sports last Thursday, shortly after Fraser-Pryce posted a minute-long highlight reel on Instagram that ended with the words “unfinished business ” The post, which included some of her most memorable victories, was captioned: “Time will honor your greatness – 2025 ”
Though Fraser-Pryce herself didn’t explicitly announce her retirement, the video strongly hinted at it — and her rep ’ s confirmation makes it clear that next year will be her final lap around the global stage
Earlier this year, the 38-year-old Kingston native said she had “ one more year left” during a January interview with a Fox affiliate, following up on her 2023 statement that the Paris Olympics would be her last Games
At Paris 2024, Fraser-Pryce advanced from the first round of the women ’ s 100m but withdrew before the semifinals without giving a public explanation She later shared her disappointment on social media: “It is difficult for me to find the words to describe the depth of my disappointment The support of my fans, my country and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me throughout my career ” In total, she holds seven combined Olympic and World Championship titles in the 100m — the most in history
With the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo looming this September, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce looks set to make one final statement on the global stage
Deon Burton sees silver linings in Reggae Girlz tough tour
Though the scoreboard painted a grim picture in back-to-back losses to Mexico, Reggae Girlz Assistant Coach Deon Burton is focusing on growth, resilience, and the crucial takeaways that may ultimately shape the team’s future
Facing a technically superior Mexican squad, the Jamaican women ’ s national team was outplayed in both fixtures of their international friendly series, but Burton refuses to allow the defeats to define the tour
Mexico wasted no time asserting their authority In the first clash at Kansas City’s CPKC Stadium, Jamaica fell behind early, conceding three goals in rapid succession Alexia Delgado (23′), Christina Burkenroad (32′), and Rebeca Bernal (37′) all found the net before halftime, effectively sealing a 3-0 victory for the hosts
Four days later at Houston’s Shell Energy Stadium, Mexico delivered another clinical performance, putting away four goals in just 25 minutes Lizbeth Ovalle (8′), Alice Soto (11′, 24′), and Scarlett Camberos (18′) carved through Jamaica’s defense with ease, leaving the Girlz chasing shadows
But while the matches were lopsided in terms of possession and chances, Burton saw a silver lining—especially in the team’s fightback during the second half of the final match
“It was good how we ended because obviously the overall tour wasn’t a success, but it finished on a positive,” said Burton in a post-game interview “We had lots of territory in the second half of the second game where we pressured and we pressured from the front and we caused Mexico a lot of problems Just a little bit more quality at the end and we maybe would have got a lot of goals, so that’s the positive to take forward ”
Burton commended the team’s secondhalf surge an aggressive and coordinated
press that disrupted Mexico’s rhythm and hinted at what the Girlz are capable of when firing on all cylinders
He praised the mental strength shown after a disheartening first half, saying, “The Girlz showed character in the second half after another bad start to the game and they could have gone under and they could have just not done what they did in the second half, and so credit to them for showing character and a bit of fight at the end ”
Despite the encouraging second-half display, Burton didn’t shy away from pointing out inconsistencies in the team’s overall performance particularly in their intensity levels
“We said it from the first game, the intensity wasn’t there again, I don’t know why,” he admitted “I can’t put my finger on it but, like I said, the second half of the second game was a different story and I think we should have really got something out of the second half because they deserved it ”
He emphasized that fast starts are critical, adding, “That’s what we want from them We said if you can start like that in games and take it to half-time on a more level playing field, then the second half, if we carried on how we did, we would have maybe got some joy ”
Burton
