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Rev. Morrison Returns To Preach “Good Trouble”

by Nora Grace-Flood

A former New Haven-based faith leader returned to Dixwell Avenue Monday to lift up Martin Luther King Jr.‘s legacy of church-led progressive political action and to boost his own bid for a national religious leadership post.

On Monday, Morrison traveled north from his current job helming the Shaw Temple African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church in Smyrna, Georgia to serve as the featured guest preacher at a Martin Luther King, Jr. Day service at Newhallville’s First Calvary Baptist Church at 605 Dixwell Ave.

Monday’s sermon and service marked a homecoming of sorts for Morrison, who previously led Dixwell’s historic Varick AME Zion Church and who founded Booker T. Washington Academy and chaired the city’s Board of Fire Commissioners before heading south to lead a larger congregation in 2016.

The service also marked a campaign stop of sorts in Morrison’s run for national office as Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church.

Over his roughly half-hour-long sermon at First Calvary, Morrison focused on the idea that the Black church has played and must continue to play a prominent role in progressive national politics.

“The church has lost its activist spirit,” Morrison mourned as a packed audience of hundreds of attendees “Amen’d” in agreement. “The Black Lives Matter movement has almost no connection to churches in our cities,” he offered as an example. “We’re ineffective in our communities… We’re Pentecostal, but we’re powerless… We’re Baptist, but we’re

broke.”

He stressed time and again that King fought for education and economic justice for African Americans. And that contemporary church leaders must do the same.

“We see this white-washed Dr. King, we celebrate a domesticated Jesus,” he said.

In reality, Morrison said, today’s leaders need to follow in King’s footsteps by introducing and advocating for “good trouble” whether that’s demanding justice for Randy Cox, the New Havener paralyzed while in police custody this past summer, condemning the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the Capitol, or demanding reparations for African Americans to help compensate for centuries of enslavement and discrimination.

“He came to see revolution as central

A Special Election will be held for

On Monday January 23, 2023, a Special Election will be held for Ward 21 Alder of the Dixwell, Newhallville, and Prospect Hill areas of New Haven. Maceo Streater is campaigning for the Alderman candidacy for the City of New Haven Ward 21.

The community is in dire need of an Alder that will attentively focus on serving the people in the community. Streater’s campaign slogan is “I AM Your Front Door Alderman.” Streater has been knocking on doors meeting the people, with an ear that is eager to hear their concerns so that upon his anticipated election he will have a clear understanding of specific needs of individuals and the community. He plans to continue serving his community in the same manner as he has for many years. He takes pride in not just being “Your Alderman during election time but being your Alderman all the time.”

Streater is a lifelong resident of Dixwell & Newhallville. Streater and his family have resided on Dixwell Avenue for over

Host Rev. Boise Kimber, meanwhile, also stood ready to speak to his own run for President of the National Baptist Convention.

Between musical performances of pieces like the Black National Anthem and readings of Bible verses, Harp welcomed Morrison back to New Haven and celebrated his own legacy as a King-like leader championing equitable education and empowerment. Tong reflected on the small-scale work required to catalyze the kind of change King has become symbolic of championing on a global scale. And Winfield urged everyone to consider freedom in terms of economic and intellectual independence, as King did.

Rev. Boise Kimber took to the stage later in Monday’s service to speak more directly about how to support both Morrison in his quest to represent the Zionist church and himself in his bid for the presidency of the National Baptist Convention.

to the church’s primary reason for being,” Morrison said of King.

“Whenever you start breaking generational curses, that’s good trouble,” he added. “Whenever you start calling out racist systems, that’s good trouble.”

“The Black church needs to get back into good trouble,” Morrison continued. “Every generation needs new leaders to keep the church relevant… where are our Dr. Kings?”

Then, he expressed his own churchpolitical aspirations: “I’m running for Bishop,” he announced. “And every Christian ought to demand change in the Black community, because Black lives do matter!”

As Morrison alternated between preach-

ing on King’s legacy and pitching his personal candidacy, he was joined by a slate of local politicians and religious leaders who also evoked the words, policies, and actions of the late civil rights icon.

While in line to speak as the guest preacher at the Greater New Haven Clergy Association’s service – hosted by Rev. Dr. Boise Kimber, who leads First Calvary – Morrison was accompanied by state Attorney General William Tong, New Haven State Sen. Gary Winfield, and former city Mayor Toni Harp. Among those spotted in the crowd of hundreds attending the service were Mayor Justin Elicker, Democratic mayoral challenger Tom Goldenberg, and potential Democratic mayoral challenger Liam Brennan.

“He’s running for bishop and it takes money to run for bishop. I’m running for denomination and it’s gonna cost me way more money than him,” he added.

“Preachers, come up with $100,” he instructed, and the preachers in the audience each made their way to the stage one by one to deposit hundred dollar bills into a donation bowl. “If you’re running for mayor or wanna be mayor,” he followed up, you also better pitch in some money.

Goldenberg’s CashApp transaction. Elicker made his way towards the front of the church to contribute a handful of cash while Goldenberg showed this reporter a CashApp donation of $100 to the two campaigns.

“I wanna take in $5,000 here today,” Boise said.

Ward 21 Alder of the Dixwell, Newhallville, and Prospect Hill areas of New Haven

40 years. Streater is sincere in all of his efforts, compassionate about the needs of his community, and knowledgeable about the pressing issues impacting the entire community. Maceo Streater truly understands that he will be representing a very diverse community. Streater states “I am very clear about the divergent needs of Dixwell Avenue and mindful of the traffic calming needs of Humphrey Street.”

Streater’s political agenda is a safer community through community policing/ block watch for all neighborhoods due to the citywide uptick in non-violent crime, along with all youth and senior services, mental health awareness, and keeping the community informed.

Streater is a human service professional. He is currently working with homeless and disabled persons at a local Warming Center. He also volunteers at local food banks and homeless shelters. Streater states “My passion to give back to my community which is what inspired me

to run for the office of Alder.” “I believe that charity starts at home & Dixwell, Newhallville is my home.”

Streater has many supporters in the community, and positive feedback has been spoken on his behalf. Dr. Ann Robinson, lifelong resident of Ward 21 stated “I’m impressed with Mr. Streater. He knocked on my door with a sincere interest of my concerns and expressed his ambition to address my needs and the needs of the community. “ Mrs. Barbara Walker, former Alder of Ward 30 and community activist stated “Streater is a man of integrity, honesty, and commitment. He has the ability to strategize and push through barriers to achieve identified goals.” Streater’s campaign manager, Jacqueline James described him as someone who is committed to his community.” “His work speaks for him.” “It is one thing to live in your community and it is another thing to serve your community. “The pleasure is in serving your community and Maceo will be an excellent servant of Dixwell &

Newhallville.”

The message is clear that Streater is a determined, and hardworking individual that can relate to the people of the community.

Streater has hit the ground running, campaigning, reaching out to the people and informing them of his agenda to implement much needed and long-awaited changes in Ward 21. Streater will represent the people and aim to do what is in the best interest of the people in the community. Today, Streater needs to hear your concerns. Tomorrow, he needs your vote. Come out to vote on January 23 and help Streater win the election. Maceo Streater name is located on line 4 (1D). The Special Election will be held at Jackie Robinson Middle School, 150 Fournier Street, New Haven. Early Voting is available at City Hall 200 Orange Street, New Haven.

Contact Maceo at: StreaterWard21@ gmail.com

Nora Grace-Flood photo Rev. Eldren Morrison: “The church has lost its activist spirit.”

Monday's audience.

Maceo Streate

Employers Speed-Pitch Future Workforce

by PAUL BASS

The FBI sounded interesting. Yale’s IT woman made a passionate pitch. The library and the Yale police made their cases. Aspiring forensic scientist Hector Morales heard them out and wondered: Where does his future lie?

Morales and 139 fellow city publicschool grads engaged in that future in the vast cavern called the Yale Commons during a speed-dating style event held Wednesday afternoon.

The event was an internship/career fair organized by New Haven Promise, the 12-year-old scholarship and mentoring program that guarantees some 750 qualifying students each year a free ride to higher education in 18 Connecticutbased colleges and universities. The annual event returned in-person for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic began. The grads — who are currently in college with the help of Promise scholarships — hopped from table to table to hear pitches from 52 employers about why they should apply for a summer internship.

The event reflected the vision of New Haven Promise CEO Patricia Melton, who put together Wednesday’s event: Scholarships are the first step in a broader effort to get New Haven public-schoolers, many of them from lower-income and working Black or Latino households, on a path to pursue their dreams in the local economy. The event gives the “scholars,” who are often the first in their families to attend college, access to summer internships that open doors to challenging, well-paying careers (that usually go to suburban middle-class students). Local employers get a chance to find talented young people to build their workforce for the future.

“There’s incredible talent here,” Melton said, reflecting on New Haven’s current real-estate and tech booms. “A building without people in it is just a building. Economic development needs to mean investment in talent. That is what will drive our economy in perpetuity. “

In other words, New Haven’s economic future lies in landing ambitious up-andcomers like Hector Morales to careers right here rather than losing them to other communities.

Morales has focused on becoming a forensic scientist since a Hillhouse High School teacher showed his class a video about a murder case solved when investigators tied the DNA from a pine cone found in a suspect’s truck to a tree next to a stream where the body was found.

“That locked me in,” he said.

Morales made the dean’s list at Gateway Community College. He plans to major in forensic science when he begins his junior year at University of New Haven in the fall.

He was looking for the right summer opportunity to buttress that plan as he and

fellow Promise “scholars”

and Kevin Rodriguez moved from table to table at Commons to hear employers’ pitches at Wednesday’s fair.

Joanne Santiago the scholar trio hard at a Yale Information Technologies department table covered with pen and keychain swag.

Morales told her about his interest in “getting my feet wet with technology” to start on his path to a forensic science career. Chen (second from left in photo) spoke of his interest in coding.

Santiago told the students an internship in her department would open up opportunities for them. They would work with “a wide range of people.” On a typical day they might help flustered university employees figure out how to log in to their computers, fix a bug in a portal that’s failing to process credit-card payments, trouble-shoot a Zoom lesson that’s not working in the music school.

“Will we need to know how to fix creditcard payments?” asked Chen. “You will not go on any situation on your own,” Santiago replied. “Experienced people” will accompany you.

Santiago, an associate director of campus technology at Yale, has 30 years of IT experience. She told the students how she’s a first-generation college graduate.

Morales, too, is the first person in his family to attend college.

As the bell rang for the next round of table visits, Santiago took the students’ resumes. She handed them info on the department and urged them to apply for the summer internships.

“I’m here trying to recruit the next generation of workers, so when I retire, Yale is in good shape,” said Santiago. “People of color have always had extra challenges. Before I leave the work, I want to make sure they see someone like them can succeed” in the field.

Morales gravitated to the FBI table for obvious reasons. He was concerned, however, about the number of advancededucation years required to land a job. He also heard about how competitive it is to land a spot there.

He and Chen and Rodriguez ended up at two different library tables, one for the Beinecke rare book library, the other for the university-wide library system. Ray Frohlich, an IT leader in the latter department made the pitch for the library system, where he oversees client services and IT operations. Frohlich pitched at the previous in-person Promise fair three years ago. One of the student attendees ended up obtaining an internship in the department. The student has since graduated and returned to the department full time as a staff engineer — the storyline the Promise fair is designed to create. Frohlich told the three students about the

library’s work.

He combined enthusiasm for his department with a soft sell. He asked about their interests. Morales mentioned forensics. Frohlich mentioned the FBI table as a possible fit.

Frohlich also told Morales about a forensic lab the library system uses. “I can connect you with that team,” he said. Morales wanted to hear more. Frohlich later told the Independent that Yale Library “uses forensic tools and techniques to capture collections data from digital media.”

“Do what you excites you if you can,” Frohlich advised the trio on Wednesday before they left for other tables. Later on, he emailed Morales to follow up.

At day’s end, Morales concluded that the library might in fact be the right fit. He planned to submit his application there for the coming summer.

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Dr. Tamiko Jackson-McArthur

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William Spivey / Kam Williams

Rev. Samuel T. Ross-Lee

Contributors At-Large

Christine Stuart www.CTNewsJunkie.com Paul Bass www.newhavenindependent.org

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The Inner-City Newspaper is published weekly by Penfield Communications, Inc. from offices located at 50 Fitch Street, 2nd Floor, New Haven, CT 06515. 203-387-0354 phone; 203-3872684 fax. Subscriptions:$260 per year (does not include sales tax for the in State subscriptions). Send name, address, zip code with payment. Postmaster, send address changes to 50 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06515. Display ad deadline Friday prior to insertion date at 5:00pm Advertisers are responsible for checking ads for error in publication. Penfield Communications, Inc d.b.a., “The Inner-City Newspaper” , shall not be liable for failure to publish an ad or for typographical errors or errors in publication, except to the extent of the cost of the space in which actual error appeared in the first insertion. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable for publication. The entire contents of The Inner-City Newspaper are copyright 2012, Penfield Communications, Inc. and no portion may be reproduced by any means without the written permission of the publisher.

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PAUL BASS PHOTO Hector Morales (second from left) takes in FBI pitch at Promise fair.

Alston Chen

At MLK Rally, Labor Marks Grad Union Win

Days after Yale graduate student-workers officially won union recognition in a landslide election, a local labor coalition celebrated that victory while rallying in in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.‘s vision of working class justice.

One hundred New Haven Rising and UNITE HERE labor organizers and allies filled the pews of Varick A.M.E. Zion Church on Dixwell Avenue Monday evening for that annual MLK Day event. While attendance was capped for the purposes of social distancing, an additional 200 attendees watched on Zoom.. The group gathered for New Haven Rising’s annual “Keeping King’s Dream Alive” rally, during which local labor leaders and rank and file union members and union-supporting elected officials remembered the words and work of Dr. King while reflecting on another year of union activism in New Haven.

Dr. King “didn’t do a good thing one time,” said Stephanie Greenlea, the executive assistant to UNITE HERE’s secretary treasurer. “He didn’t do a hard thing one time.”

In Greenlea’s eyes, the election to give Local 33 negotiating power on behalf of Yale graduate students culminated 30 years of doing hard things of not simply organizing standalone protests, but also of building activism into the daily rhythm of life.

Greenlea participated in the latter 17 of those 30 years of graduate student organizing. She pursued a PhD in African American studies and sociology at Yale before getting a job working full-time in the labor movement.

During that time, Local 33 fought for better employment conditions for students, Greenlea said on Monday night for “work with dignity, fair wages, respect” while agitating in solidarity with workers across the university and for city residents affiliated with Yale for “a neighborhood that is safe, a community that is thriving, a planet that is healing.”

All of that built up to last week’s election results tallying, when the federal National Labor Review Board determined that “91 percent of graduate workers voted ‘Union Yes,’ ” as Local 33 member and Yale genetics researcher Arita Acharya touted about the 1,860 – 179 election win. “Just a few hours later, Yale sent out a message agreeing to sit down with us.” Acharya expressed hope that the new union would “push Yale to be a better employer and a better neighbor.”

“Local 33 has been fighting with working people

every step of the way,” said Hill Alder Ron Hurt.

Speaker after speaker from State Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney to newly elected State Treasurer Erick Russell to Local 34 member Brittiany Mabery-Niblack hailed Local 33’s election victory as an example of a thriving labor power movement in New Haven.

Other recent victories and tragedies saturated speakers’ remarks over the course of the evening, as well. Martin Looney celebrated the passage of a “captive audience ban” in the state legislature. That law forbids employers from requiring workers to sit through meetings related to religion and politics, including anti-union presentations.

Looney recounted his own father’s experience with “captive audience” meetings as a factory worker at the Winchester Arms plant. He said that managers aimed to quell union activism by threatening that union involvement would jeopardize immigrants’ citizenships and potentially close the factory.

Erick Russell took a moment to remember Quentin “Q.” Williams, a Democratic state representative from Middletown who died in a car crash earlier in January. Q was a friend and fraternity brother to Russell.

“Q., like Dr. King, was 39 when he passed,” Russell said. “He did so much work, but there was so much work left in him.”

Georgia U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock made an appearance via video Monday night, after winning a close campaign boosted by UNITE HERE and New Haven Rising volunteers.

And Board of Alders President and West River Alder Tyisha Walker-Myers spoke of a need not to be complacent with the wins that UNITE HERE and New Haven Rising commemorated.

“We do everything we can to move the needle a little bit, but it’s never enough,” Walker-Myers said. “Yes, it’s good we got Yale to give more money” in its annual contribution to the city, that the university is sitting down with graduate union organizers, she said. But, decades after King’s death, Black and brown neighborhoods in New Haven are still dealing with crises that don’t penetrate the historically white university’s walls.

“Poverty is killing us in our city. We got Black kids dying in the street,” Walker-Myers said, alluding to a recent wave of gun violence that affected her own family, among many others. “We’re losing people. We can’t keep sitting back like it’s normal.”

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR

HONORING THE LEGACY OF

“I HAVE A DREAM that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”

- MARTIN LUTHER KING JR

LAURA GLESBY PHOTO

Stephanie Greenlea reflects Monday on 17 years of organizing with Local 33. by LAURA GLESBY

New Haven Independent

MLK Slam Poetry Returns To The Live Mic

by BRIAN SLATTERY

On Monday afternoon, halfway through the Z Experience Poetry Slam, host Ngoma Hill remarked that this year — the event’s 27th — saw the event’s biggest turnout yet. It was a fitting return to inperson form for the slam, in honor of community organizer Zannette Lewis, as poets filled the O.C. Marsh Lecture Hall in the Yale Science Building and, for a few hours, turned it into one of the hottest slams on the East Coast.

The event — supported by the Yale Peabody Museum, which is midway through renovation of its own space — featured performances by Abioseh Joseph Cole, Ameerah Shabazz-Bilal, Goddess Tymani Rain, Hattress Barbour, Lyrical Faith, Ray Jane, Tchalla Williams, Slangston Hughes, William Washington, and Yexandra Diaz.

After an open mic hosted by poet Croilot Semexan, as well as a group performance by veteran poets Cole, Sharmont Influence Little, and Michael Peterson, Ngoma explained the rules for the slam. Each poet would get the same time limit to perform, with points deducted for exceeding that limit. Their work would be scored by five judges on a scale of 1 to 10; their score for each poem would be calculated by throwing out the lowest and highest scores and adding up the other three. There were also cash prizes: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place.

All of that, and the fact that the room was full of people eager to hear what the poets had to bring, made for an afternoon where antes were upped, games raised, and, in time, souls bared.

Abioseh Joseph Cole’s opening move was a rumination on Blackness that dug into the history of his race consciousness and the way it gave him strength to face present-day racism. “Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful,” he said, “because guess what: you are, too.” His poem drew a score of 26.8, even after including a penalty for running over time. The other poets would have to bring their best, and they did.

William Washington used a repeating

phrase of “drip, drip” from his faucet to mix blood and tears together. “We are being murdered one by one, and as that one drop drips into the sink, I wonder if that one is safe to drink,” he said.

Hattress Barbour offered praise: “The women in my family are magic. I have seen them transform tragedy into triumph,” he said. “They withdrew pain from wounds I didn’t know I had.… That monument they’ve been waiting for has always been right here,” he concluded, pointing to his heart. His penalty for running over did not go over well with the crowd.

Ameerah Shabazz-Bilal talked about the work of developing a higher consciousness. “Can we just be Black and free?” She also ran over the clock, and it

cost her.

Then came Goddess Tymani Rain, who kicked things up a notch. In a riff on how Black women become Olympians, she wove in the larger struggles they always face; the trials of being an athlete resonate with the trials of trying to survive. Her poem reached a fever pitch, carrying the audience with her. “No matter how they medal your decisions, they will never take away your gold,” she shouted. She brought the house down.

“I get the feeling y’all liked that one,” Ngoma said. So did the judges. With a score of 29.5, Rain was suddenly in the lead.

Yexandra Diaz also went over time but still scored high on the strength of her piece, offering understanding about the

violence done to Black men. “They ain’t tell you how dangerous it is for Black men to think,” she said. “Are you willing to shoot off your nose to spite your own race?”

Slangston Hughes started a poem about traveling to the future that seemed at first like it would be a poem about happiness, but then got dark. He talked about “the thin line between ‘hands up, don’t shoot’ and ‘praise God, I’m coming home.”

“This is supposed to be my Black joy poem,” he said, “and it is … why do you think our humor is so dark?” His poem earned him a spot in the running right behind Rain.

Tchalla Williams delivered a poem on why she writes, as a form of civil disobedience and inspiring action in others. “I need you to go forth and do,” she said, “but not as you’re told.… Ain’t no way you’re going to quit. I write these words so you remember that shit. You started so you might as well finish it.” She now had the third highest score, fighting off Ray Jane, coming in with a poem about self-assertion (“what I’ve always been is the one”).

The last poet in the first round, however, brought the house down again. Lyrical Faith rocked the mic with a searing poem about abortion. She reached back in time to explain that women in slavery “killed babies as a form of resistance”; better that than let them live as slaves. She went on that “the Black fetus is the White man’s bullseye … C-section only exists because Black women were experiments,” and noted that White women who were outraged at the overturning of Roe v. Wade were in some sense only now entering the kind of discrimination Black women have always faced. “Welcome,” she concluded. “We’ve been expecting you.”

On the strength of the first round’s scores, seven of the poets advanced to the second round. Goddess Tymani Rain set the bar high with a poem about hiding anger and bitterness behind constant smiling. Lyrical Faith tore into plantation weddings, with couples “exchanging vows where bodies would swing.… When did it become popular? When did it ever go out of style?… Some White wom-

en have dreamed of this day their whole lives,” she said. “What’s more American than marriage, God, and slavery?” Meanwhile, for Black people, “we’ll have memories to last a lifetime.” Slangston Hughes felt that if we were indulging in cancel culture, we should just cancel America, with its halfway measures and weak concessions. “We asked for change and they put Maya Angelou on a quarter. That’s not what we meant,” he said.

Tchalla Williams’s poem was about the power of poetry itself. Ray Jane delivered a eulogy for slaves: “You are more than a blip on a graph.… Your life was lost like loose cigarettes.… A dead Black man, an unmarked grave, become like jazz on my page.” Yexandra Diaz delivered an ode of pain and resistance to her daughter. “I should have named you Amber, just in case,” she began. William Washington excoriated the n-word.

The scores from the judges were so tight that six poets advanced to the final round. Lyrical Faith and Ray Jane dug deep into the silence of Black women in the face of violence (“we all contribute to the carnage,” Jane said). Yexandra Diaz’s poem seemed to envelope all of her life experience. Tchalla railed against technology worship. Goddess Tymani Rain ripped into the precarious life of being an entertainer (“the only difference between a suicide and martyrdom is press coverage”). Slangston Hughes wrestled with history, in the afternoon’s most excoriating poem yet.

The margins between the scores were now so razor-thin that even this supposedly final round precipitated a runoff between Lyrical Faith and Goddess Tymani Rain. Rain got deeply personal, while Faith gave lessons learned during protests that offered humor and pain in equal measure. It was enough for Rain to take third, Faith to grab second, and Slangston Hughes to come out on top in first. The big applause that greeted them at the end was for the huge talent they’d brought to the microphone, but also for the return of the event itself. Z Experience helped everyone remember the crackling energy of sending out words like arrows into a room full of people.

BRIAN SLATTERY PHOTOS Ngoma Hill at Monday's poetry slam.

Keeping the movement alive: how the Black church continues to make social change

By Marnita Colema, Special to the Inner-City, courtesy of the Afro

“The church must stand at the forefront of the struggle,” said Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in a 1957 address to a group of 300 ministers.

More than a place of worship, the Black church is the sacred infrastructure of the Black community. Now, more than ever, when it comes to social change, the widening economic divide between the haves and the have-nots, crime, education and gentrification, it is the church that stands in the gap.

King relied on the faith community throughout his activism, centering his work on God while utilizing the power of the Black church to spark change. And today, ministers are still following the lead of faith leaders who cleared a path before them.

In Baltimore’s Broadway East neighborhood, Pastor Donte Hickman of Southern Baptist Church is advancing social change under “the mantra of restoring people as they rebuild properties.”

Pastor Hickman believes in continuing the work of King by buying and building back the Black community– one property at a time. Hickman is creating opportunities of equity, diversity, and sustainability within neglected communities that have been historically and predominantly African American.

“Integration for us does not mean that we have to succumb to the need for relocation and gentrification in order to have justice and equality,” said Hickman. “It means we intentionally invest in the transformation and revitalization of the neighborhoods of our rearing to enjoy affordable housing, increased median incomes, access to early childhood education, efficient transit systems, physical and nutritional wellness and amenities that empower and stabilize families.”

Rev. Diane Dixon-Proctor, pastor of Sharp Street United Methodist Church in Sandy Spring, Md. believes the Black church is making strides to keep Dr.

King’s legacy of love and activism alive.

As the oldest Black church in Montgomery County, Sharp Street United Methodist Church celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2022, with a multicultural parade of participants, supporters, and spectators. Rev. Dixon-Proctor said no one would have ever known the “racial mix” of people in the church because the people in the parade– those along the parade route, and those who came and participated in the activities –were from diverse nationalities.

“There were people from all walks of life,” she said. “Different denominations, and different organizations that came to-

gether to be a part of what was happening in our community.”

Dixon-Proctor encourages the public to keep in mind that all are responsible for pushing King’s dream forward.

“I don’t think I will live to see racism abolished, but all of us should push and push until we see the better in life, and just love one another,” she has said.

It’s only appropriate that social change and the church are paired together. Social change is about evolving for the better as human beings and relationships that transform cultural and social institutions. Faith leaders of today can be seen hosting recurring food drives, vaccination clin-

ics, health care screenings, back to school events and mediation circles. Pastors are walking the streets, actively taking back the community, mentoring youth and advocating in the State House and on Capitol Hill.

“The truth is that the church, even at the time of King, was the central hub of all community activities,” said Alvin Gwynn Jr., pastor of Leadenhall Baptist Church in South Baltimore.

“Everything kind of revolved and centered around the church. So, if you want to put it in terms of definition, our culture was very church-centric in terms of the African-American community.”

Gwynn spoke with the AFRO about how churches, historically, have been the breeding grounds for social change during the civil rights era.

“Look at how the churches networked through the conventions– both the Progressive Baptist Convention and the National Baptist Convention– and the work that those conventions did, drawing all of the congregational policies together in a unified manner so that they can come up with a general agenda for the Black movement [and] social advancements that we were trying to make take place,” he said. “The Black church was always at the center of political life, as we were putting forward those representatives to go into the halls of Congress and represent our best interests.”

Honoring

Dr. King’s commitment to change

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s words remind us of the importance of service at any level. AARP believes your experiences, skills and passion have the power to inspire others to make a difference.

We encourage everyone to continue building on his legacy by lending a helping hand in their community.

Find ways to volunteer in Connecticut at createthegood.aarp.org

Making the transition back home after a long-term care stay can be hard, but Money Follows the Person, or MFP, can provide the support you need! MFP helps people who have been in a nursing facility for 60+ days to get the care and supports they need at home. MFP can also help people find housing and assist with home modifications.

Learn more about your options at MyPlaceCTMFP.org or call the toll-free number 1-888-99CTMFP (1-888-992-8637).

“Everybody can be great because anybody can serve.”

The Inner-City News Says Goodbye to our Friend Mr. Willie C. Mewborn

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” Psalm 23

Willie Carey Mewborn, Sr. of Hamden, Connecticut peacefully entered eternal rest on our precious Lord’s birthday Sunday, December 25, 2022.

Willie C. was the first-born child to the late Lossie Bell (Mewborn) Williams and Horace Pugh on August 8th, 1939, in Ayden, North Carolina, better also known as Pitt County.

Willie C. was a graduate of South Ayden High School in Ayden, North Carolina. In 1960; he moved to New Haven, Connecticut to make a better life for his family.

After working various jobs, Willie C. decided to pursue a career in Cosmetology and attended Vaughn Barber College in Hartford, Connecticut.

He eventually continued his education at Kaynor Technical School in Waterbury, Connecticut where he studied Business, with the intention of owning his own business. In 1980, he achieved his dream by opening Willie C’s Unisex Barbershop on Dixwell Avenue, a staple of New Haven known far and wide.

Willie C. was blessed to work alongside his son Billy, where they both have been stellar representatives of and servants to their community.

On August 1st, 1981, Willie C. married Dorothy V. Gary. Throughout the years, Willie C. and Dorothy went on numerous

trips. Canada, Atlanta, The Carolinas, you name it.

They hosted many family cookouts, where he also took part in the Pond Street Block Watch Association and the Freddie Fixer Parade every year.

Affectionately known as Mr. C to most and recognized as an unquestioned leader in his community, Willie C’s list of acknowledgments and recognition in service to his community is likely unparalleled and has been a continuum throughout his life.

In 2004, he was honored by King Solomon’s Lodge #23 PHA and the Hamden Notables as Man of The Year.

Throughout the year Willie C. was also recognized for many other achievements

such as The James Thorpe Humanitarian Award, The John Jasper Award, AIDS Interfaith Community Service Award of New Haven and the Cosmetologist & Barbers Award of New England. Elected as District Councilman, Willie C. faithfully and honorably served the people of the 5th District of Hamden, Connecticut for 2 years beginning in 2005.

He simply had a calling for helping and serving his community.

Over the years, Willie C. served as a member on the Community Advisory Board for The New Alliance Bank, the Advisory Board for Gateway Community College, the West River SHIP Invest-

ment Group, the Hamden Black History Committee, and Widow’s Son Lodge #1 Eureka Chapter. Willie C. and Billy C. hosted many health fairs such as blood pressure screenings and mental health checks for those in the African American community.

Most recently, Willie C. was honored by the Ethnic Diversity Task Force, a group of world-renowned, licensed Psychologists from Connecticut who promote greater mental health access and advocacy for culturally competent psychological services in communities of color throughout the state. Willie C. loved to help everyone, and his reach far exceeded his local community. He was a giver.

joyed reading the bible and watching the news. He was a diehard New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox fan. Willie C. always had a word of wisdom or advice to give to anyone he came across.

Willie C. loved the Lord with all his might and was a beloved member of The Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church in New Haven, Connecticut where he served as a Deacon.

In 2002, Willie C. became the President of The Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church Male Chorus. In 2004, Willie C. and Johnathan Q. Berryman formed an all-male chorus alongside Dr. Willis Barnett of Richmond, Virginia. Each year, over 200 men from various churches gathered around to sing the Lord’s praises. With the heart of gold Willie C. carried, he became the managing director of the Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church’s Soup Kitchen where he served the homeless every Sunday after service.

In his free time, Willie C. loved to tinker with old cars and was a collector of antiques.

Willie C. leaves to cherish his legacy his loving wife Dorothy of 41 beautiful years, four children, Cynthia Best of Greenville, North Carolina, Willie C. Mewborn, Jr. (Lillie) of Hamden, Connecticut, Debra L. Young (Reginald) of Cibolo, Texas, and Nikia Carey Mewborn of Hamden, Connecticut; five grandsons who he was lovingly known as “Pop or Pop Pop”, Brandon M. Young of Cibolo, Texas, Jordan A. Young of Austin, Texas, Willie C. Mewborn, III. (Brandi) of Atlanta, Georgia, Le’Andre C. Mewborn of Providence, Rhode Island, Jeremiah Best of Greenville, North Carolina and one granddaughter; Jaiden E. Singleton of Hamden, Connecticut who for the past 4 years was the light of his life and in his eyes did no wrong; six siblings; Harvey Williams of New Haven, Connecticut, Marian Williams of Hamden, Connecticut, Ronald Williams of New Haven, Connecticut, Vicki Green of New Haven, Connecticut, Delanna P. Hardy of New Haven, Connecticut, and Elizabeth P. Jones, of New Haven, Connecticut, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and special friends.

Willie C. is predeceased by his parents, Lossie Bell (Mewborn) Williams and Horace Pugh; his brother, Curtis (Ray) Williams; his brother-in-law, Bobby Barnes; sister-in-law, Viola Williams and grandson Derrick T. Young.

He

Wilcox Tapped For New Term On Ed Board

by MAYA MCFADDEN

The mayor has tapped Board of Education Vice President Matt Wilcox to serve another term on the city’s school board. That’s according to a proposed order that Mayor Justin Elicker submitted to the Board of Alders on Jan. 4. Wilcox’s reappointment request is included as a communication on the agenda for Tuesday’s full Board of Alders meeting, and now advances to the Aldermanic Affairs Committee for review before returning to the full board for a final vote.

Wilcox a 53-year-old Westville resident, director of Quinnipiac University’s Netter Library, and father of three New Haven Public Schools (NHPS) graduates was first appointed to the Board

of Education by then-Mayor Toni Harp in 2019. His current term expired on Dec. 31.

If Elicker’s proposed reappointment is confirmed by the Board of Alders, Wilcox’s new term will extend through Dec. 31, 2026.

In response to a question about why he wants to stay on the ed board, Wilcox told the Independent by email, “My children graduated from New Haven Public Schools thanks to their teachers and paraprofessionals, the school leaders, and the parent leaders that paved the way for them. Through our alternative school programs, I got to see how staff never give up on a kid. If I have a chance to work to continue to support the schools as a board member, then I am all in. We have

such great students, parents, school staff, teachers, and administrators, that make it so worth it.”

Wilcox’s reappointment comes soon after his fellow board members voted unanimously to reelect him to another one-year term as the ed board’s vice president, along with Yesenia Rivera as president and Edward Joyner as secretary. Wilcox also chairs the board’s Finance and Operations Committee, Head Start Sub-Committee, and Citywide School Building Committee. Since joining the board in 2019, Wilcox has not missed a board meeting.

His reappointment also comes as the state of public education in New Haven has emerged as one of the focal points of

He had a heart for those in need, especially the Youth.

His love for stylish suits and shoes was evident in the way he dressed.

was an avid spades player and en-

“Always do the right thing and make sure it’s out of love”.

“If I can help somebody, then my living will not be in vain”

MARKESHIA RICKS FILE PHOTO

Wilcox testifies at 2019 confirmation hearing at City Hall.

New Haven Independent

Edward A. Bouchet, was the valedictorian of the Hopkins class of 1870, the first African-American to graduate from Yale College, and the first African-American to receive a Ph.D. in physics. His intellectual drive and dedication to his studies remain hallmarks of a Hopkins student today.

Hopkins is where high-achieving, motivated students inspire one another in a collective pursuit of excellence.

To learn more, please visit us at hopkins.edu

Shirley Weber Sworn in as California’s First Elected Black Secretary of State

By Antonio Ray Harvey, California Black Media

On Jan. 9, with the sound of African drumming in the background, Shirley Weber was sworn in as the first elected Black Secretary of State (SOS) of California and the 32nd person to hold the position.

The ceremony was conducted at the SOS’ auditorium in downtown Sacramento, one block south of the State Capitol.

Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) administered the oath of office in front of Weber’s grandsons Kadir and Jalil Gakunga.

“I want to thank all of those who work so hard to make this position, the Secretary of State — and all of those wonderful things that come with it — possible, and for being in my life,” Weber said. “I have been blessed beyond imagination with all of the good things California has to give.”

The daughter of a sharecropper from Hope, Arkansas, Weber said she is “not supposed to be here” as the state’s chief clerk, overseeing a department of 500plus employees.

Weber grew up in a two-room, “clapboard house” in Arkansas with her parents and five other siblings before the family relocated to Los Angeles where they lived in Pueblo Del Rio, a housing project known as the “pueblos.”

Weber said the “data” projected that she would not have a bright future. Still, she went on to graduate from UCLA with a PhD, serve on the San Diego Board of Education, teach African American studies at San Diego State University, and successfully run for California State Assembly in November 2012.

“My father came from Hope, Arkansas,

because there was no hope in Hope,” Weber said. “He came to California because he wanted his children to have a better chance and a better life.”

When Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Alex Padilla the state’s junior U.S. Senator in January 2021, he nominated Weber as SOS. Padilla filled in for Sen. Kamala Harris, who had been elected U.S Vice President. Weber was officially installed as SOS in April 2021.

Weber’s plan after serving in the Legislature was to move to Ghana, Africa, and “build a house up in the hills.” But that all changed when Newsom called.

“It was hard for me to think about becoming Secretary of State because I was so content in the Assembly,” Weber said. “When I was asked to be Secretary of State, I thought hard and long about it. I realized that everything about the Secretary of State was central to my life. I thought to myself that I am always the one taking the hard challenges. I said who better than a kid of sharecropper, who never had a chance to vote, who could fight for the rights of voters.”

The Secretary of State is the chief elections officer of the state, responsible for overseeing and certifying elections, as well as testing and certifying voting equipment for use in California. Weber’s duties also include overseeing the state’s archives division and registry of businesses.

In her remarks, Atkins praised Weber’s “leadership” and “morality” and called her “a tireless champion of democracy,” adding that those characteristics are integral to performing the duties of Secretary of State.

Atkins told guests that she first met Weber when she was 24 years old and that

Weber helped her run for state Assembly. For the first time in its history, California has three Black constitutional officers. The others are Controller Malia M. Cohen and Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond.

“You know, our constitutional officers are unique, and I give credit to our Governor (Gavin Newsom) and the people of California.”

“There is no other list of constitutional officers like this? Where do you have a list of constitutional officers where it only has one white male in it? That is unheard of. The diversity (and) the fact that women are constitutional officers in California is historic.”

Weber’s daughter, Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) was the ceremony’s emcee while Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) provided the invocation. David Bauman’s African drumming and musical selections by Dr. Tecoy Porter, pastor of Genesis Church Sacramento and president of the National Action Network Sacramento Chapter and his Genesis Church choir provided the entertainment. Weber’s son Akil Weber provided the closing statements.

“Words cannot express how truly proud I am of what my mother has done, what she will continue to do, the door she has opened, the legacy she is creating,” Assemblymember Akilah Weber said of her mother.

The post Shirley Weber Sworn in as California’s First Elected Black Secretary of State first appeared on Post News Group. This article originally appeared in Post News Group.

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The Secretary of State is the chief elections officer of the state, responsible for overseeing and certifying elections, as well as testing and certifying voting equipment for use in California. Weber’s duties also include overseeing the state’s archives division and registry of businesses.

Department of Justice Begins Supreme Court Defense of Student Loan Forgiveness

Lawyers from the Department of Justice said that Congress gave the president “clear permission” to go ahead with his plan.

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

In a filing sent to the U.S. Supreme Court this week, the Department of Justice agreed with President Joe Biden’s plan to forgive student loans.

In 2022, the president promised to forgive all outstanding student loan debt for millions of borrowers, up to a maximum of $20,000 each.

Republicans are leading the way in suing the federal government to stop the plan.

The Department of Justice, however, said last week in a court filing that Biden’s actions are perfectly legal.

Lawyers from the Department of Justice said that Congress gave the president “clear permission” to go ahead with his plan.

A federal judge in Texas invalidated a program in October that would have helped 40 million people with their student loan debt.

Two people who didn’t qualify for aid under Biden’s scheme sued the initiative on behalf of the conservative Job Creators Network Foundation.

At the time, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the government strongly disagreed.

“The President and this Administration are determined to help working and middle-class Americans get back on their feet, while our opponents, backed by extremist

Republican special interests, have sued to prohibit millions of Americans from getting much-needed relief,” Jean-Pierre remarked.

The HEROES Act of 2003, according to the White House, gives the Secretary of Education the authority to forgive student debt.

“The program is consequently an illegal

exercise of Congress’s legislative power and must be vacated,” wrote Judge Mark Pittman, a Donald Trump nominee. “In this country, we are not dominated by an all-powerful executive with a pen and a phone,” he continued.

Federal student loan debt of up to $10,000 will be forgiven for borrowers with yearly incomes of less than $125,000 in 2020 or

2021, and up to $200,000 for married couples or heads of households.

Borrowers who also got a federal Pell grant might have up to $20,000 in their loans discharged.

Six states with Republican governors sued to stop Biden’s plan to forgive debts. This made the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals put a hold on the plan.

One plaintiff in Texas lost her right to have her federal student loans forgiven because the federal government did not service her loans.

Since the other plaintiff did not obtain a Pell award, the amount of debt relief to which he is entitled is just $10,000.

They said they had no way of voicing their disapproval of the program’s regulations because the administration had not followed the Administrative Procedure Act’s notice and comment rule-making procedure.

Elaine Parker, president of the Job Creators Network Foundation, stated in a statement, “This verdict supports the rule of law which requires all Americans to have their voices heard by their federal government.”

According to CNN’s reporting, Bernie Marcus, the former CEO of Home Depot, and a key Trump donor, established the Job Creators Network Foundation.

Two challenges challenging Biden’s debt relief plan will be argued before the Supreme Court in February.

In February, the Supreme Court will hear arguments in two cases.

In its petition, the Justice Department said, “The lower courts’ decisions have wrongly taken away the Secretary’s legislative authority to give targeted student loan debt relief to borrowers affected by national emergencies.”

From Myth To Man: Martin Luther King, An Interpretation AN ORIGINAL ONE-MAN PLAY

Join us for an original, thought-provoking, and intimate interpretation of the complex human side of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This is not imitation and impersonation, but an authentic portrayal that will connect all generations to the mission, legacy, and humanity of the civil and human rights leader. For more information, contact the SCSU Multicultural Center, (203) 392-5888.

More Employers Demanding Employees Return to the Office

Many employers have asserted that in-person work helps with problem-solving, training new employees, and it reinforces corporate culture.

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

Josh Wright runs a small eCommerce business that helps consumers get good deals on cell phones and plans but doesn’t believe employers should demand everyone return to the office.

Wright says that people who work at home are more productive because they do not have as many distractions at work. When people work at home, they can be more focused and focus on their work, Wright said.

“For a small eCommerce business like mine, the cost savings associated with working from home can be significant,” he added.

“Remote work eliminates the need for a physical office space, and employees can use their own equipment, which reduces overhead costs.”

However, Wright’s view isn’t shared by many other employers.

According to the Wall Street Journal, employers are losing their patience with empty desks in the office.

The newspaper noted that companies like Vanguard Group, Paycom Software, and others have told employees to come in to work more in 2023 to save money. Many employers have asserted that inperson work helps with problem-solving, training new employees, and it reinforces corporate culture.

“Employers face a tough decision. Forcing employees to return can cause many of these employees to seek other employment,” Caroline Duggan, Chief Brand Officer for Lumineux, said in an email.

“Employees have found they enjoy the flexibility and better work/life balance they have achieved through remote work.

It will be difficult to get them to give that up.”

Duggan said that many federal employees have continued working remotely.

She noted that District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser had urged President Joe Biden to either have them return or release the buildings they formerly occupied, so the city could create more housing space.

“The larger issue seems to be around the question of productivity,” Duggan added. “Are employees as productive working from home as in the office? Employers will need to balance their needs with retention to determine what works best for their employees and their company.”

However, McKenna Moore, an associate

editor at LinkedIn, said remote work may be past its prime.

Moore wrote that, in the current U.S. job market, many employers have taken remote-work arrangements off the table. “Data from LinkedIn’s Workforce Report shows the rapid rise and fall of employers’ willingness to target remote candidates,” Moore reported.

In an analysis of over 60 million paid job postings on LinkedIn since January 2021, researchers found that remote jobs had the highest number of jobs in March 2022.

But Moore noted that spike gave way to an abrupt decline; in November 2022, barely 14% of paid job postings invited remote applicants.

“It might be helpful for businesses to have workers located in an office, where they can keep an eye on them and offer constructive criticism to guarantee timely project completion,” said Calvin Willis, a tech entrepreneur.

“An organization might see, for instance, that its remote workers are constantly a few days behind schedule on projects, whereas those based in the office never miss a deadline,” Willis continued. “Having everyone in the same room at the same time encourages conversation and cooperation among workers, which isn’t always easy to accomplish when everyone has different hours.”

The Wall Street Journal reported that, for much of the pandemic, companies

took a “fairly soft” approach to policy enforcement, fearful that too rigid a stance on in-office work could harm morale or lead to turnover.

“Although companies set office policies, some managers largely allowed workers to ignore them,” the newspaper reported. The average office occupancy in 10 major U.S. Cities remained below 50% for much of 2022, according to data from security firm Kastle Systems.

According to the newspaper, most employees want to work in an office at least a few days a week. They also said that many workers see the benefits of working in an office.

Meanwhile, some employers insisted that enforcing the rules is a matter of fairness to the workers who have been complying.

“Uneven and inconsistent adoption has created inequities in how the model is applied and has made it difficult to realize the benefits of in-person learning, collaboration and connection,” Vanguard officials said in a memo, according to the Journal.

Some Vanguard employees said they were told by their managers that if they didn’t comply with the return-to-office policy, they would be terminated without severance.

At Paycom, nearly 80% of the company’s employees are already working five days a week at the company’s headquarters.

Many employees began returning to the office in August 2021.

“From the start of the pandemic, Paycom communicated that working from home would be a temporary solution while we prioritized everyone’s health and well-being,” a spokesman told the Journal.

Lawmakers, Activists Seek To “Cap The Rent”

by LAURA GLESBY

Hundreds of tenant rights organizers from across Connecticut gathered online to kickstart a new campaign focused on limiting annual rent increases on the same day that two New Haven state legislators introduced a bill in Hartford that would cap such hikes at no more than 2.5 percent a year.

The Connecticut Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and partnering organizations announced that proposed rent cap law and associated doorknocking effort on Thursday night during a Zoomstreamed meeting online.

Roughly 225 people attended the “Cap The Rent CT” launch event to learn about the advocacy campaign, and to celebrate Thursday’s introduction of Proposed Senate Bill 138: “An Act Concerning Rent

Stability and No-Fault Evictions.”

That proposed law is co-sponsored by New Haven State Sen. Gary Winfield and State Rep. Robyn Porter, among others. If passed, it would limit rent increases in Connecticut to no more than 2.5 percent per year. It would also restrict “no-fault” evictions related to, for example, expired or invalid leases.

Which states that it would amend Title 47a of the state general statues to “prohibit rent increases that exceed two and one-half per cent on an annual basis” and “establish rules for no-fault evictions and exceptions for such evictions.” The bill as proposed would not affect evictions related to nonpayment of rent or serious nuisances. So-called “no-fault” evictions are already prohibited in Connecticut for public housing and elderly tenants.

No-fault evictions spiked in New Haven

and across the state last year as pandemic-era eviction restrictions lifted. In 2022, according to the Independent’s review of New Haven eviction lawsuits, they accounted for 16.5 percent of all eviction lawsuits filed in the city.

At Thursday’s Zoom meeting and campaign kickoff, housing activists from across Connecticut hailed the proposed bill as a critical protection from homelessness, gentrification, and exploitative housing arrangements.

“Our rent increases every year and our incomes do not,” said Hartford Tenants Union activist Sharon Terrell.

“Safe, stable, and healthy housing is a human right,” said Greta Blau, an organizer with the Hamden Tenants Union and Seramonte Tenants Union. “We have momentum now. We have a vibrant movement now, and the Hamden Tenants

THOMAS BREEN FILE PHOTO

New Haven's Kim Hart, with Claudette

Kidd: "Our purpose is to put the onus of evictions not on the tenant, but on the landlord.”

New Haven Independent

THU, JAN 26 | 7:30 PM | ELVIS

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SAT, JAN 28 | 7:30 PM | MOONAGE DAYDREAM

SUN, JAN 29 | 3:00 PM | TÁR

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FRIDAY, FEB 10 | 8PM

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FRI, FEB 3 | 7:30 PM | BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER

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Abdussabur Files For Mayoral Run

by PAUL BASS

Community activist and retired police Sgt. Shafiq Abdussabur submitted papers Friday to begin a run for the Democratic mayoral nomination, as New Haven’s public-education challenges continued to top the campaign season issues debate.

Abdussabur submitted the campaign committee filing at the City Clerk’s office.

Actually, his 2 1/2-year-old granddaughter Aminah formally handed the filing to Deputy City Clerk Mae Reed. Abdussabur, a 55-year-old city native, arrived in the office accompanied by his wife Mubarakah Ibrahim, son Ismail, and Aminah, and made that a point about why he’s seeking to unseat two-term incumbent Mayor Justin Elicker.

“I was born in the city of New Haven. My wife and I have raised our four children in the city. Most of them have chosen to stay and raise their children” here, he said a press conference following the filing.

“My three children are the sixth generation of New Haven residents in our family. I am running for mayor so that our grandchildren’s grandchildren will be proud to call New Haven home.”

“I believe that we can be a better New Haven.”

Abdussabur said his top campaign priority is “definitely” education.

“It is no secret that New Haven’s educa-

tional system is in shambles,” he charged.

“Yet we are spit-gluing it together with after-school programs. We have no concrete plan to address the below-grade reading levels and epidemic levels of truancy and absenteeism.” He said teachers also need more support.

Tom Goldenberg, another declared Democratic mayoral candidate, has also placed education as a top policy priority.

“Education is a crisis that we and other cities around the nation are facing,” Mayor Elicker responded later. He spoke of the administration’s plan to spend $3 million on after-school and summer literacy programs.

Abdussabur said at Friday’s filing press conference that that effort is not a substitute for a broader rethinking of in-school instruction. Elicker responded that his administration is putting in place “an overall strategy” that has included reaching a new teachers union contract with significant pay increases, increasing the number of dropout prevention workers, boosting collaboration with nonprofit partners to engage with student absenteeism, and improving the district’s data analysis to track why students are absent.

Abdussabur retired as a sergeant with the New Haven Police Department (NHPD) in 2018. During his two decades with the NHPD, he helped craft the city’s street outreach worker program and negoti-

ated a truce among warring gangs. He ran a community anti-violence program called CTribat. He served as a Beaver Hills alder

for six months last year until resigning because of a rule that would have prevented the Board of Education from renewing a cleaning contract with a company he ran.

“I’ve not seen Mr. Abdussabur participate in any Board of Education meetings to work collaboratively to meet the challenge” facing public education, Elicker remarked. “If Mr. Abdussabur were still on the board [of alders] he’d have an opportunity to support a $3 million investment in after-school and summer programming focused on literacy and math.”

Asked for a response, Abdussabur stated: “We look forward to having this conversation with our opponent on the campaign trail and in our first debate.”

Abdussabur was asked Friday if he will participate in the city’s volunteer Democracy Fund public-financing program, which seeks to limit the influence of private interests and help more people seek office by offering grants in return for candidates agreeing to limit the size of individual contributions and forswearing political-committee or business donations.

“Currently our team is still in conversation with members of the Democracy Fund to determine if that is something that we will be able to take advantage of,” he responded. Elicker is participating in the program; Goldenberg is not.

Abdussabur also criticized Elicker for supporting “15-year tax abatement deals”

with developers with no plan for enabling New Haveners to afford hundreds of new apartments being built across the city. Elicker responded that the Board of Alders approved those deals, which he said will create affordable housing through projects undertaken by Beulah Heights Development Corp. in Dixwell, Beacon in the Ninth Square, and the Towers in the Hill.

A fourth potential Democratic mayoral candidate, former federal prosecutor and current Hartford inspector general Liam Brennan, has formed an exploratory committee.

In an email press release sent out Friday afternoon, Goldenberg welcomed Abdussabur into the mayoral race and used Abdussabur’s resignation as alder, failure to secure a new cleaning contract with the public schools, and subsequent lawsuit against the city to talk about broader policies around minority-owned businesses.

“The City of New Haven needs to review its bidding processes and its Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) programs to ensure fairness and transparency,” Goldenberg is quoted as saying in the press release. “The most extreme racial disparity in New Haven is Black business ownership, and I believe that the city’s MWBE program should specify Black businesses. I will be sharing a proposal later this month on how the city can better support minority owned businesses.”

MAVIS STAPLES

PINKY PATEL

BALLET HISPÁNICO

COHEN

Abdussabur Friday at the City Clerk's office.

Artspace Director Leaving For Massachusetts

by THOMAS BREEN

The head of one of New Haven’s leading downtown art galleries is leaving town for a new museum job in the Berkshires, nearly three years after she first stepped into the Ninth Square role.

During a Tuesday afternoon phone interview with the Independent, Lisa Dent confirmed that she will soon be leaving her job as the executive director of Artspace for a new role as director of public programs and engagement at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Mass MoCA).

Her final day on staff at the 50 Orange

Wilcox Tapped

this year’s contested mayoral election. The ed board has grappled with chronic absenteeism, low reading and math scores, and a district-wide teacher shortage in NHPS. It also recently approved a new teachers union contract, and NHPS is getting ready to start a 12-school pilot process for two new K-3 phonics-based literacy programs. And the ed board has begun the process of looking for a new superintendent to replace Iline Tracey, who plans to retire at the end of the current school year.

Reached for comment on Monday, Wilcox said that, if he’s approved by the alders, some of his goals during a second term on the ed board include hiring the district’s next superintendent “through a process that ensures stakeholder input, and by a board that is listening and acting on that input.”

He added that as chair of the Finance and Operations Committee he hopes to continue the committee’s work on “provide[ing] the oversight to finish with another balanced budget this fiscal year and working to secure the funding for next year’s budget… The district has made tremendous investments in updating curriculum frameworks, purchasing new curricula in areas like science and math and the ongoing literacy program pilot. I, as part of the board, will need to ensure that those plans happen. We can have all sorts of plans for improving literacy, numeracy, and attendance, but we also need to make sure we have enough people to do the work along with the support staff, the social workers, the psychologists, and others to provide social and emotional support the students need and deserve.”

Asked in what ways he hopes to improve the board, Wilcox said, “I hope to continue to work with those on the board who want to work with me on what needs to be done to further the schools. All of us on the board are passionately committed to NHPS and desire to help it be better. We may differ on how to get there, but when we work together we are far more effective. Our next major test is the superintendent search.”

St. art gallery will be this Friday.

Dent first took on the role of Artspace’s executive director in April 2020, leaving her job as the artistic director of a Portland, Oregon-based visual arts nonprofit to succeed Artspace’s long-time former director Helen Kauder.

“I decided I needed to leave because I felt that there was consistently no support” from both the local visual artist community and from Artspace’s board around “necessary changes” she wanted to make at the Orange Street gallery, Dent told the Independent on Tuesday.

She said she felt like she and her staff consisting of two full-time employees and three part-time employees did not get the backing they needed in order to be “inclusive in general,” to be “equitable around salaries,” and to act on the tenets of the city’s recently adopted Cultural Equity Plan.

“Our individual donations in 2022 were extremely low,” Dent added. “Any work I was doing on building audience was not welcomed by the artist community, who insisted that we help them sell their work and were less interested in building audience.” She worried that some members of the community wanted Artspace to function more as “a membership organization instead of as a presenting organization.”

Asked about what she thinks Artspace needs in order to thrive at this moment of leadership transition, Dent said, “I was able to bring on an incredible staff. I have so much faith in their abilities and what they’ve brought to how our mission is being inserted into everything we do. I believe they need support.”

Reached by phone on Tuesday afternoon, Artspace Board President Kara Straun thanked Dent for her time leading

the Orange Street gallery.

“We’re sad to see her go,” Straun said, while praising her “vision and talent.”

Asked to respond to some of Dent’s criticisms of Artspace’s board, Straun said that the gallery’s board adopted a new “strategic plan” last summer with the goal of becoming a more inclusive institution and realizing some of the goals laid out in the city’s Cultural Equity Plan.

“The board is continuing to evolve,” she said. “We’re in a place of rolling up our sleeves” and getting to work. She said the board will likely appoint an interim executive director soon after Dent leaves as it searches for a new permanent replacement.

YASH ROY FILE PHOTO

Lisa Dent: Headed to Mass MoCA.

Racism Is Causing Blacks More Heart Risks

by Dominique Lambright, BlackDoctor.org

People who struggle to sleep must address the problem. Limit screen time, exercise more, and sleep earlier, warn experts. Blackout curtains, earplugs, and other traditional remedies don’t always work. Black Americans sleep worse than whites, sometimes for reasons beyond their control. Health professionals must explain sleep in the context of a person’s life and surroundings.

Disparities In Sleep From Social & Environmental Factors

Mercedes Carnethon, vice chair of preventive medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and an expert on racial inequalities in cardiovascular disease believes social and environmental factors contribute to sleep variations. Poor sleep has wide-ranging consequences. Sleep deprivation is connected to heart disease. Heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S., may be lowered if more people get enough sleep. This year, the American Heart Association recommended getting adequate sleep.

Lauren Hale, a professor of preventive medicine and sleep behavior expert at Stony Brook Medicine, says good sleep for everyone might reduce racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in cardiometabolic illnesses. Two hundred and twenty-nine Backs per 100,000 died of heart disease in 2020, compared to 170 whites. Some studies suggest that at least half of racial disparities in cardiometabolic disease risk are linked to sleep patterns.

Hale says sleep hygiene advice ignores systemic disparities. “Sleep research must be turned into scalable, sustainable medicines,” she adds.

Structural Racism Fundamentally Causing Sleep Inequities

Sleep is hard to examine since it happens outside a lab. Sleep is multifaceted, says Kristen Knutson of Northwestern’s Feinberg School of Medicine. Sleep length, quality, and timing affect health. According to the CDC, one-third of Americans sleep fewer than seven hours every night. It likely misses many nighttime wakers.

Despite the ubiquity of ordinary sleep disturbances, “sleep medicine has generally focused on clinical sleep disorders,” including obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia, says NYU’s Natasha Williams. These illnesses are easier to diagnose and cure than sleep disorders; in detecting and treating serious diseases, race and socioeconomic status matter. This all-encompassing strategy ignores millions of people, disproportionately Black, whose lack of sleep puts them at risk for cardio-

metabolic disease and death. Undercutting Opportunity In Restorative Sleep & Cardiovascular Health

Separating sleep from other factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases, such as diet, exercise, or weight, is difficult. Unhealthy habits go hand-in-hand. Poor sleep inhibits exercise and healthy nutrition. Unhealthy food or activity may cause poor sleep, perpetuating the cycle. Loops may promote cardiometabolic deterioration. Poor sleep increases the risk of Black obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. Each of these conditions causes disturbed sleep; someone with diabetes may get up at night to urinate. This might worsen and produce new disorders.

Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health assistant professor Dayna Johnson studies sleep health inequities and cardiovascular disease. Racism impairs sleep and heart health. Experts claim chronic stress impairs sleep. Socioeconomic factors, interpersonal stress, racism, and prejudice may affect sleep. Racial and ethnic sleep disparities are caused by heightened alertness, fear of discrimination or mistreatment, and neighbor suspicion. To sleep well, one must be relaxed and not be hypervigilant.

Not all races benefit from rising affluence. Wealthier people sleep better. Highincome, well-educated Black Americans sleep worse than whites, taking longer to fall asleep and staying awake longer in bed. Black and white professionals sleep less than blue-collar workers. Higherincome Black people may be in the minority at work or in their communities, increasing their racism and prejudice, according to some scholars.

To Sleep Well, One Needs To Feel Safe

Feel safe to sleep well. Housing discrimination causes financial and environmental disparity, which impairs sleep. Redlining, which barred Black Americans from purchasing homes in certain areas until the late 1960s, created neighborhoods with poor sleep conditions, including noise, light, poverty, and air pollution. Decades of discriminatory practices have rendered scientifically proven sleep hygiene advice unavailable to those at risk for cardiovascular disease and death.

Climate and environment impact sleep disparities. Without air conditioning, lowincome urbanites may have problems sleeping. Closing windows may suffocate by trapping noise, light, and air pollution. Temperature affects sleep quality. People

in cities lacking green spaces, who are already at risk for heart disease, have restless evenings.

Low-income Blacks have financial, nutritional, and housing challenges that postpone sleep. They work many jobs, making it hard to sleep regularly. More family members or high-density apartments may have less noise control. In a summer research, Johnson and two colleagues coined the term “sleep deserts.” Like food deserts, these areas have poor sleep. Sleep poverty “is not merely individual action,” according to Johnson. Context counts.

Not As Simple As “Go Sleep More”

Sleep and cardiovascular health experts suggest ways to reduce structural racism’s insomniac consequences. Knutson says suggestions must be reasonable and effective. “Sleep more, exercise more, eat better’ isn’t enough,” Knutson adds. “Everyone’s priorities change every hour. Nobody sleeps enough. Priorities include paying bills and caring for kids.

Multidimensional sleep “gives us possibilities to improve sleep that isn’t just about quantity,” Knutson says. Can it be more consistent? Which sleep component may improve heart health? Many people sleep 5-6 hours. If so, she suggests getting regular sleep. This is important for individuals who work after hours, Hale says. She says that many people don’t feel safe wearing earplugs while sleeping for fear of not hearing an intruder. She suggests utilizing white noise to soften outdoor sounds, which can be controlled.

Improving Environments & Communities

Increasing sleep to minimize CVD inequities requires economic and community improvements. Johnson says we must examine the context to reduce sleep inequities. She helps people improve their home’s insulation and ventilation to improve sleep and save money on heating and cooling. Educating more doctors of color and physicians about sleep might help heart-risk areas. In a basic care appointment, physicians concentrate on measurable, curable clinical issues like weight, high blood pressure, or diabetes rather than sleep; experts told STAT.

Millions of women might avoid cardiovascular illness with simple screenings. Researchers predict policy changes will influence sleep equity long-term. Johnson says that affects community structure and public health budgets. Stricter limits on air and noise pollution might improve sleep conditions, especially in heart disease-prone areas, even when donations weren’t about sleep. Community investment improves sleep, Hale and her colleagues found. People in a primarily Black and low-income region who lived near new community assets (such as a grocery store, park, or community center) slept better during a three-year period, according to 2021 Sleep research.

Hale says improving ecosystems and communities benefits people. Another policy is cautiously hopeful. Schools are starting later nationwide. Whether a high schooler arrives at 7:30 or 8:30 a.m. may not affect their cardiovascular disease risk decades later. Racial sleep disparities begin before adulthood and increase heart disease risks. Later start times improve pupils’ health and learning, which might lessen socioeconomic differences.

Health education involves encouraging people to listen, learn, and change their behavior, Hale adds. “When a structural state changes, [behavior] changes” – a rising tide lifts all ships regarding health disparities. National efforts may reduce sleep and heart health disparities. Johnson mentions minimum wage’s health advantages. They’d sleep better if folks could support their families with a single-day job.

California Family Whose Beachfront Properties were Seized 100 years ago, Sells Land Back to County for $20 Million

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire

The great-grandchildren of the African American couple Willa and Charles Bruce, whose land in Southern California was taken in 1924 and returned to the family last year, have opted to sell it back to the local government for $20 million.

In the 1920s, the beach resort was extremely popular with African American tourists. At that time, Black people were not permitted on white beaches.

The site became famously known as “Bruce’s Beach.”

The children and grandchildren of Charles and Willa Bruce fought for decades to get back the land.

Chief Duane Yellow Feather Shepard, a family historian and spokesman for the Bruce family, stated in a 2021 interview, “It was a very significant location because there was nowhere else along the California coast where African Americans could go to enjoy the water.”

The Ku Klux Klan and other white supremacists often threatened the Bruce family, but they kept the resort open and took care of the land.

In 1924, the municipal council used eminent domain to take the land to build a park. But, according to a TV show called “The Insider,” the area wasn’t used for many years.

Willa and Charles Bruce fought back in court, but their compensation was only $14,000. In recent years, local officials

have estimated the property’s value to be as high as $75 million.

The area contains two coastal properties and is currently used for lifeguard training.

Janice Hahn, chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, revealed that the family would sell the property

back to the local government.

Hahn stated that the price was set through an appraisal.

Hahn stated, “This is what reparations look like, and it is a model I hope governments around the country would adopt.”

The statement made by Hahn may or may not be exactly what the Bruce family desired in addition to the restitution of their land.

In 2021, Anthony Bruce, the great-greatgrandson of Willa and Charles Bruce, told The New York Times, “An apology

would be the least they could do.”

The post California Family Whose Beachfront Properties were Seized 100 years ago, Sells Land Back to County for $20 Million first appeared on Post News Group. This article originally appeared in Post News Group.

CBC Begins ‘Busy’ 2023 Meeting with Biden Administration over Border Policies

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

While House Republicans spent a week publicly bickering and 15 rounds voting to elect Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California as speaker, the Congressional Black Caucus was already hard at work on behalf of its millions of constituents.

In the 118th Congress, the CBC will have 58 members, nine of whom are new to the chamber.

Steven Horsford, a Democrat from Nevada, was chosen as chair.

The rest of the executive committee is made up of Democrats from New York, Louisiana, Georgia, and Washington: Yvette Clarke, Troy Carter, Lucy McBath, and Marilyn Strickland.

Due to the lengthy speakership vote, Congress could not do business during the first week of the new legislative year. Despite this, Horsford and other CBC members still managed to talk about one of their 2023 goals.

Members were worried about the Biden administration’s plan to stop people from Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti from crossing the border.

Horsford stated, “America is a nation of immigrants.”

He argued that the right to access could save lives in many situations.

Horsford and Clarke said that the government’s policy, which is very similar to that of the Trump administration, should be looked at again immediately. Even though Biden’s new program intends to speed up the asylum process, “the reality is that the administration’s actions have the potential to threaten the safety and humanity of migrants,” as Horsford put it.

Horsford’s parents are native Trinidadians, while Clarke’s ancestors came to the United States from Jamaica.

During a meeting with DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, which Horsford led, the topic of Haitian migrants was central.

Horsford says, “Members talked about the real-life experiences of their constituents with migration and their worries about the continuation of Title 42. They also stressed the importance of giving everyone fair and equal access to asylum and other ways to move.”

Trump’s pandemic-era Title 42 law allowed the United States to deport hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers on public health grounds.

Horsford praised the CBC and Mayorkas for “taking the right step in the right

direction” by collaborating on a government-wide strategy to address migration at entry points.

The caucus’ chair said the CBC is eager to collaborate with Biden on finding “humanitarian-focused solutions.”

The CBC has not yet released all its priorities for 2023 due to the delay in electing a speaker, but it expects a busy session.

Maxwell Frost (D-FL), the youngest new member at age 25, is the first person from Generation Z to serve in Congress. Summer Lee, 35, is the first Black woman to represent Pennsylvania in the United States House of Representatives.

After being sworn in for the first time on January 3, 1991, D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, now 85, is beginning her 16th term this month.

“I do not know if we have ever needed you more than we do now,” said Marcia Fudge, the former chair of the CBC and the current secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The CBC “has been the conscience of the Congress, the moral center that ensures that the people in communities whose blood, sweat, and tears built this country are never forgotten by this storied institution for over 50 years,” Fudge asserted.

In the 118th Congress, the CBC will have 58 members, nine of whom are new to the chamber.

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

Construction

THE GLENDOWER GROUP, INC.

Construction Equipment Mechanic preferably experienced in Reclaiming and Road Milling Equipment. We offer factory training on equipment we operate. Location: Bloomfield CT We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

NOTICE

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

Contact: Tom Dunay Phone: 860- 243-2300

Seeking to employ experienced individuals in the labor, foreman, operator and teamster trades for a heavy outside work statewide. Reliable personal transportation and a valid drivers license required. To apply please call (860) 6211720 or send resume to: Personnel Department, P.O. Box 368, Cheshire, CT06410.

Request for Qualifications

IQC Architectural Services

Email: tom.dunay@garrityasphalt.com Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Garrity Asphalt Reclaiming, Inc seeks:

Reclaimer Operators and Milling Operators with current licensing and clean driving record, be willing to travel throughout the Northeast & NY. We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V Drug Free Workforce

0

PVC FENCE PRODUCTION

The Glendower Group, Inc. is currently seeking proposals for IQC Architectural Services. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Glendower’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway

beginning on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at 3:00PM.

360 MANAGEMENT GROUP, CO.

Contact: Rick Tousignant Phone: 860- 243-2300

NOTICIA

Email: rick.tousignant@garrityasphalt.com Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Large CT Fence Company looking for an individual for our PVC Fence Production Shop. Experience preferred but will train the right person. Must be familiar with carpentry hand & power tools and be able to read a CAD drawing and tape measure. Use of CNC Router machine a plus but not required, will train the right person. This is an in-shop production position. Duties include building fence panels, posts, gates and more. Must have a valid CT driver’s license & be able to obtain a Drivers Medical Card. Must be able to pass a physical and drug test. Please email resume to pboucher@atlasoutdoor.com. AA/EOE-MF

Invitation for Bids

Agency Wide Roofing Repairs/Replacement

Union Company seeks:

Tractor Trailer Driver for Heavy & Highway Construction Equipment. Must have a CDL License, clean driving record, capable of operating heavy equipment; be willing to travel throughout the Northeast & NY. We offer excellent hourly rate & excellent benefits

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

Contact Dana at 860-243-2300

Email: dana.briere@garrityasphalt.com

Women & Minority Applicants are encouraged to apply Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer

Full Time Administrative assistant position

for a steel & misc metals fabrication shop who will oversee the daily operations of clerical duties such as answering phones, accounts payable purchase orders/invoicing and certified payroll. Email resumes to jillherbert@gwfabrication.com

State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for a Municipal Finance Policy Development Coordinator

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at:

https://www.jobapscloud.com/ CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1= 221215&R2=1581MP&R3=001

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

360 Management Group, Co. is currently seeking bids for agency wide roofing repairs/ replacement. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from 360 Management Group’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway

beginning on Monday, December 12, 2022 at 3:00PM.

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

Request for Proposals

Communications Media Consultant

Elm City Communities is currently seeking proposals for a communications media consultant. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City Communities’ Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/ gateway beginning on

Monday, December 12, 2022 at 3:00PM.

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

Invitation for Bids

Cornell Scott Ridge

I

437 M&N Eastern Street Fire Damage

Elm City Communities is currently seeking bids for Cornell Scott Ridge I 437 M&N Eastern Street Fire Damage. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City Communities’ Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

Monday, December 12, 2022 at 3:00PM.

ELM CITY COMMUNITIES

@

Invitation for Bids

HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

Uniform Services

Elm City Communities is currently seeking bids for uniform services. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Elm City Communities’ Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at 3:00PM.

-

02, 2016

WATER SUPPLY & TREATMENT

NOTICE

CLERK III

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

NOTICIA

The Town of Wallingford is seeking qualified applicants for Assistant Superintendent for Water Supply and Treatment. The position is responsible for providing technical and managerial direction in the operation and maintenance of the Town’s water supply and treatment facilities. The qualifications are a bachelor's degree in civil, environmental, chemical or sanitary engineering, biology, chemistry, or related field plus five years of progressively responsible experience in water operations with at least three years in water treatment and water quality, or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience. Applicants must have or being able to obtain within twelve months, a State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Class IV Water Treatment Plant Operator Certification and a Class II or Class III Distribution System Operator Certification. Certification as a General Backflow Preventer Tester and Cross Connection Survey Inspector is preferred. Must possess and maintain a valid CT driver’s license. Salary: $80,555 to $103,068 annually plus an excellent fringe benefits package. A complete job announcement and application may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@ wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of February 7, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

LEGAL NOTICE

Request for Proposals (RFP) for Services

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management, is seeking proposals to provide certain services related to financial management of the City of West Haven, Connecticut. The intent of the request is to identify individuals or firms with the necessary expertise to provide these services within a stated timeframe.

In the Wallingford Public Schools, performs a wide variety of clerical duties requiring excellent computer and interpersonal skills. This position requires 1 year of office work experience and a H.S. diploma. Wages: $19.42 to $25.85 hourly plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford 45 South Main Street, Room 301, Wallingford, CT 06492. Applications will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203) 294-2080 Fax: (203) 294-2084. The closing date will be that date the 50th application form/resume is received or January 25, 2023 whichever occurs first. EOE

THE GLENDOWER GROUP, INC.

Request for Qualifications

Youth Continuum A&E Request for Qualifications

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

HOUSING AUTHORITY-DESIGNATED PROPERTIES

THE HOUSING AUTHORITY of the CITY OF NEW BRITAIN (Authority) will receive sealed bids, in TRIPLICATE, for the Design and Renovations of designated Community Rooms for the City of New Britain. Bids will be received until February 03, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the office of the Authority, 16 Armistice Street, New Britain, CT 06053, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. To obtain a copy of the "Request for Proposal," please visit www.nbhact.org under procurement.

NEW HAVEN

242-258 Fairmont Ave 2BR Townhouse, 1.5 BA, 3BR, 1 level , 1BA All new apartments, new appliances, new carpet, close to I-91 & I-95 highways, near bus stop & shopping center Pet under 40lb allowed. Interested parties contact Maria @ 860-985-8258

Management position providing oversight of property maintenance Superintendents at over 30 commercial properties located throughout CT. Primary location is New Haven, CT with regular visits to properties. Employee supervision experience and strong knowledge of mechanical and building operating systems required.

The RFP is available online at: https:// portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard and https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Root/RFP/ Request-For-Proposals or from Kevin Meakem, Office of Policy and Management, Finance Division, 450 Capitol Ave., MS# 54FIN, Hartford, Connecticut 06106-1379. E-mail: Kevin.Meakem@ct.gov. Telephone (860) 418- 6313. Deadline for response submission is 3:00 PM EST February, 3, 2023.

The Glendower Group, Inc. is currently seeking proposals for Youth Continuum A&E Request for Qualifications. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Glendower’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway

beginning on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 3:00PM.

BALDWIN HOLDINGS, INC.

An instrumentality of The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport Invitation for Bid (IFB) Solicitation Number: 26-BH-23-S Re-Construction of Three – Three Family Homes 344-346 Hanover St., 350-352 Hanover St., 354-356 Hanover St.

Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Please submit resumes to openjobs.group@fusco.com. Phone calls will not be accepted

CT. Unified Deacon’s Association is pleased to offer a Deacon’s Certificate Program. This is a 10 month program designed to assist in the intellectual formation of Candidates in response to the Church’s Ministry needs. The cost is $125. Classes start Saturday, August 20, 2016 1:303:30 Contact: Chairman, Deacon Joe J. Davis, M.S., B.S. (203) 996-4517 Host,General Bishop Elijah Davis, D.D. Pastor ofPitts Chapel U.F.W.B. Church 64 Brewster St. New Haven, CT

CLERK TYPIST

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

The Housing Authority of the City of Bridgeport under its instrumentality Baldwin Holdings, Inc. is requesting sealed bids for Re-Construction of Three – Three Family Homes located at 344-346, 350-352, 354-356 Hanover St. A complete set of the plans and technical specifications will be available on January 17, 2023. To obtain a copy of the solicitation you must send your request to bids@parkcitycommunities.org, please reference solicitation number and title on the subject line. A MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held at 150 Highland Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06604 on February 1, 2023 @ 11:00 a.m., submitting a bid for the project without attending conference is not in the best interest of the Offeror. Additional questions should be emailed only to bids@parkcitycommunities.org no later than February 8, 2023 @ 3:00 p.m. Answers to all the questions will be posted on PCC’s Website: www.parkcitycommunities.org. All bids must be received by mailed or hand delivered by February 22, 2023 @ 2:00 p.m., to Ms. Caroline Sanchez, Director of Procurement, 150 Highland Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. No bids will be accepted after the designated time.

Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour until 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Street Seymour.

Performs a wide variety of routine clerical duties requiring excellent computer and interpersonal skills. This position requires 1 year of office work experience of a responsible nature and a H.S., GED, or business diploma. Wages: $21.83 to $26.43 hourly plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request form the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203) 294-2080 Fax: (203) 294-2084. The closing date will be that date the 50th application form/resume is received or January 23, 2023 whichever occurs first. EOE

A pre-bid conference will be held at the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith Street Seymour, CT at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

MINORITY CONTRACTOR OPPORTUNITY – Fair Haven Community Health ClinicParking Improvements, CT SOLICITATION OF SBE/MBE CONTRACTORS:

Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Office, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

Full Time Administrative assistant position for a steel & misc metals fabrication shop who will oversee the daily operations of clerical duties such as answering phones, accounts payable purchase orders/invoicing and certified payroll. Email resumes to jillherbert@gwfabrication.com

The Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to reduce the scope of the project to reflect available funding, and to waive any informalities in the bidding, if such actions are in the best interest of the

Enterprise Builders, Inc., an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, seeks certified SBE/MBE Subcontractors and/or suppliers and local business enterprises to bid applicable sections of work/equipment/supplies for the following construction project: Fair Haven Community Health Clinic - Parking Improvements. This project which consists of exterior parking lot improvements and associated building demolition in New Haven, CT. Bid Date and Time: 2/02/2023 @ 10:00AM. Electronic Plans and specifications can be obtained at no charge by contacting the Estimating Department at Enterprise Builders at (860) 466-5188 or by email to email. Project is Tax Exempt and State Prevailing Wage Rates apply This project is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements. EBI encourages the participation of certified SBE/MBE contractors. EBI is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer.

Legal Ad - Public Meetings – Metropolitan Transportation Plan

NOTICE

Town of Bloomfield

Building Maintainer

NOTICE OF INVITATION FOR BID HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE

CITY

OF DANBURY

VALENTINA MACRI RENTAL HOUSING PRE- APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE

The South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) will be hosting two (2) public meetings to discuss the future of transportation in the Greater New Haven area. A virtual meeting will be held on Thursday, February 2 at 6pm via Zoom. An inperson meeting will be held at 12:30pm on Wednesday, February 8 in the SCRCOG Conference Room, 127 Washington Ave, 4th Floor West, North Haven, CT 06473. A survey is available to collect additional public comments. For more information on the public meetings and survey, visit https://scrcog.org under “Announcements.” Contact Laura Francis at (203) 466-8624 or LFrancis@scrcog.org with any questions.

Waste Treatment

HOME INC, on behalf of Columbus House and the New Haven Housing Authority, is accepting pre-applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments at this development located at 108 Frank Street, New Haven. Maximum income limitations apply. Pre-applications will be available from 9AM TO 5PM beginning Monday Ju;y 25, 2016 and ending when sufficient pre-applications (approximately 100) have been received at the offices of HOME INC. Applications will be mailied upon request by calling HOME INC at 203-562-4663 during those hours. Completed preapplications must be returned to HOME INC’s offices at 171 Orange Street, Third Floor, New Haven, CT 06510.

$25.37 hourly (40 hrs weekly) Pursuant to Teamsters Collective Bargaining Unit This position has a 9-step hourly range ($25.37 to $28.54) Pre-employment drug testing. For more details, visit our website – www.bloomfieldct.org

Power Washing

IFB No. B23001

SCOPE:

The Housing Authority of the City of Danbury hereby issues this Invitation for Bid to provide Power Washing Services

BID SUBMITTAL RETURN:

NOTICIA

VALENTINA MACRI VIVIENDAS DE ALQUILER PRE-SOLICITUDES DISPONIBLES

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (Attendant II): Operates and maintains equipment and processes in a municipal sewage treatment plant. Requires a H.S. diploma or GED. A State of Connecticut DEEP Class II Operator or higher certification; or a Class II Operator-in-Training or higher certification. Wages: $27.13 to $32.33 or $24.16 - $32.33 hourly (based on certifications & experience) plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Applications may be obtained at the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. The closing date will be that date the 50th application form/ resume is received, or February 07, 2023, whichever occurs first. EOE

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

APPLY NOW!

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

Housing Authority of the City of Danbury, 2 Mill Ridge Rd, Danbury, CT 06811 Envelope Must be Marked: IFB No. B23001, Power Washing

SUBMITTAL DEADLINE

January 31, 2023, at 2:00pm

(EST)

HOME INC, en nombre de la Columbus House y de la New Haven Housing Authority, está aceptando pre-solicitudes para estudios y apartamentos de un dormitorio en este desarrollo ubicado en la calle 109 Frank Street, New Haven. Se aplican limitaciones de ingresos máximos. Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles 09 a.m.-5 p.m. comenzando Martes 25 julio, 2016 hasta cuando se han recibido suficientes pre-solicitudes (aproximadamente 100) en las oficinas de HOME INC. Las pre-solicitudes serán enviadas por correo a petición llamando a HOME INC al 203-562-4663 durante esas horas.Pre-solicitudes deberán remitirse a las oficinas de HOME INC en 171 Orange Street, tercer piso, New Haven , CT 06510

Top pay for top performers. Health Benefits, 401K, Vacation Pay.

Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

THE GLENDOWER GROUP, INC.

Request for Proposals Financial Underwriter

The Glendower Group, Inc. is currently seeking proposals for a financial underwriter. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from Glendower’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway

beginning on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 3:00PM.

360 MANAGEMENT GROUP, CO.

Invitation for Bids

Uniforms Services

360 Management Group, Co. is currently seeking bids for uniforms services. A complete copy of the requirement may be obtained from 360 Management Group’s Vendor Collaboration Portal https://newhavenhousing.cobblestonesystems.com/gateway beginning on

Town of Bloomfield

Finance Director

Salary Range $101,455-$156,599 Pre-employment drug testing.

AA/EOE. For Details go to www.bloomfieldct.org

QSR STEEL CORPORATION

CONTACT PERSON FOR IFB DOCUMENT: Devin Marra, Director of Financial Operations Telephone: 203-744-2500 x1410 E-Mail: dmarra@hacdct.org

[Minority- and/or women-owned businesses are encouraged to respond]

State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for an Office Assistant (Confidential) and a Connecticut Careers Trainee –Planning Analyst

Invitation to Bid: 2nd Notice

SAYEBROOKE VILLAGE

APPLY NOW!

Old Saybrook, CT (4 Buildings, 17 Units)

Steel Fabricators, Erectors & Welders

Tax Exempt & Not Prevailing Wage Rate Project

Top pay for top performers. Health Benefits, 401K, Vacation Pay.

Email Resume: Rose@qsrsteel.com Hartford, CT AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at: https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/sup/ bulpreview.asp?R1=230104&R2=7086CA&R3=001 and https://www.jobapscloud.com/CT/sup/ bulpreview.asp?R1=230109&R2=2292AR&R3=001

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

New Construction, Wood Framed, Housing, Selective Demolition, Site-work, Castin-place Concrete, Asphalt Shingles, Vinyl Siding, Flooring, Painting, Division 10 Specialties, Appliances, Residential Casework, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection. This contract is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements.

State of Connecticut Office of Policy and Management

Monday, January 9, 2023 at 3:00PM.

SEYMOUR HOUSING AUTHORITY

MINORITY CONTRACTOR OPPORTUNITY – Waterbury Auditorium Upgrades, Waterbury, CT SOLICITATION OF SBE/MBE CONTRACTORS:

Sealed bids are invited by the Housing Authority of the Town of Seymour until 3:00 pm on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at its office at 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 for Concrete Sidewalk Repairs and Replacement at the Smithfield Gardens Assisted Living Facility, 26 Smith Street Seymour.

The State of Connecticut, Office of Policy and Management is recruiting for a Municipal Finance Policy Development

Bid Extended, Due Date: August 5, 2016 Anticipated Start: August 15, 2016

Coordinator

Further information regarding the duties, eligibility requirements and application instructions are available at:

Project documents available via ftp link below: http://ftp.cbtghosting.com/loginok.html?username=sayebrookevillage

At Ducci Electrical Contractors, we believe it is our duty to encourage the growth and use of small, minority, women-owned, disadvantaged and disabled and non-disabled veteran-owned businesses. We are committed to the principles and practices of Equal Employment Opportunities, Civil Rights, Diversity and Inclusion and the implementation of policies, codes, and regulations that will foster growth, promote advancement, and provide opportunities for all subcontractors and vendors.

A pre-bid conference will be held at the Housing Authority Office 28 Smith Street Seymour, CT at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, July 20, 2016.

Bidding documents are available from the Seymour Housing Authority Office, 28 Smith Street, Seymour, CT 06483 (203) 888-4579.

Enterprise Builders, Inc., an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer, seeks certified SBE/MBE Subcontractors and/or suppliers and local business enterprises to bid applicable sections of work/equipment/supplies for the following construction project: Waterbury Auditorium Upgrades. Project consists of Interior renovation/upgrades to (6) school auditoriums in Waterbury, CT. Bid Date and Time: 1/24/2023 @ 3:00PM. Electronic Plans and specifications can be obtained at no charge by contacting the Estimating Department at Enterprise Builders at (860) 466-5188 or by email to e-mail. Project is Tax Exempt and State Prevailing Wage Rates apply. This project is subject to state set-aside and contract compliance requirements. EBI encourages the participation of certified SBE/MBE contractors. EBI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Housing Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to reduce the scope of the project to reflect available funding, and to waive any informalities in the bidding, if such actions are in the best interest of the

Fax or Email Questions & Bids to: Dawn Lang @ 203-881-8372 dawnlang@haynesconstruction.com HCC encourages the participation of all Veteran, S/W/MBE & Section 3 Certified Businesses Haynes Construction Company, 32 Progress Ave, Seymour, CT 06483 AA/EEO EMPLOYER

https://www.jobapscloud.com/ CT/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1= 221215&R2=1581MP&R3=001

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.

For additional information, or to be added to our bid list, please send your qualifications to the following contact:

svincent@duccielectrical.com

If you are interested in becoming part of our workforce, please contact: Catherine Best, Corporate Compliance Officer cbest@duccielectrical.com www.duccielectrical.com

Stacey Vincent, Contracts & Diversity Manager

Amid the Chaotic Speakership Debate in the House, A Star is Born

a divided America.

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent@StacyBrownMedia

It’s possible that after the bitter campaign for House Speaker ended on January 7th, Americans – especially Black Americans – felt a strong sense of déjà vu. New York Democratic Rep. Hakeem Jeffries provided a masterclass on leadership and served up a clear reminder of what an up-and-coming senator from Illinois named Barack Obama once did during a divided America.

“Progress asserted itself tonight, manifested in [Hakeem] Jeffries, even amidst a hostile takeover of the House by neo–fascists,” Jason Randolph of Vote.org commented.

Randolph said Jeffries delivered “what’s likely the best political speech not given by Obama in generations.”

On July 27, 2004, during the Democratic National Convention in Boston, a 42-year-old Barack Obama, who a few months earlier won a Senate primary in Illinois, spoke eloquently and inspiringly about the divide facing America.

“Now even as we speak, there are those who are preparing to divide us, the spin masters, the negative ad peddlers who embrace the politics of ‘anything goes,’” Obama asserted.

“Well, I say to them tonight, there is not a liberal America and a conservative America; there is the United States of America. There is not a Black America and a White America and Latino America

and Asian America; there’s the United States of America.”

Nineteen years later, in 2023 where many say politics are as divisive and dangerous as ever, Jeffries, 52, channeled Obama by providing a masterclass on leadership. He called for “maturity over Mar-a-Lago,” a direct shot at new House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s praise of Trump. Throughout Jeffries’ speech, Trump supporting Republicans jeered while Democrats rose to applaud the Brooklyn born congressman.

Jeffries smoothly went through the alphabet to capture all the ails America, and what’s needed to repair the divided nation.

“House Democrats will always put American values over autocracy, benevolence over bigotry, the Constitution over the cult, democracy over demagogues,” Jeffries asserted.

“Freedom over fascism, governing over gaslighting, hopefulness over hatred quality of life issues over Q’Anon, reason over racism, substance over slander, triumph over tyranny, understanding over ugliness, and voting rights over voter suppression.”

Earlier, the Republican Party did, in fact, select a speaker, albeit grudgingly; however, given the 15 rounds it took for McCarthy to secure the necessary votes, it’s possible that his tenure as speaker won’t last.

Whether or not McCarthy remains speaker, his ascension to the top post in the chamber is unlikely to be remembered

as the 118th Congress’ defining moment. McCarthy, despite multiple defeats before winning the speakership race and his previous condemnation of former President Trump’s role in the 2021 insurrection, still praised Trump.

The person elected to lead Congress and look out for America’s best interests praised an alleged would-be over thrower of the U.S. government just two years and one day after the Trump-inspired insurrection in which several lives were lost. Although a congressional committee recommended criminal charges and numerous members of Trump’s inner circle testified to the committee about the former

president’s guilt.

McCarthy, upon being presented with the speaker’s gavel, remarked, “I do want to especially thank President Trump.”

“Do not doubt, in my opinion; in fact, no one should doubt his influence. He was with me from the beginning. So, thank you, President Trump.

However, two years earlier, McCarthy held that “the President bears responsibility for Wednesday’s attack on Congress by mob rioters. He should have immediately denounced the mob when he saw what was unfolding.”

McCarthy’s moments aside, many people who watched the inauguration of the

118th Congress said that Jeffries, the first African American to lead a major political party in Congress, demonstrated true leadership.

“McCarthy’s speech should have contained some of the words Jeffries spoke,” Dean Obeidallah, a lawyer and host of a self-titled SiriusXM show, opined.

“[McCarthy] should have made it clear he denounces autocracy, fascism and the grave threats facing our democracy by Trump and the MAGA wing of the Republican Party,” Obeidallah insisted. The radio host wasn’t alone.

“Rep. Hakeem Jeffries speaks truth to power,” declared attorney Ben Crump. “Politicians must remember that they represent U.S. All of us. Let’s encourage our lawmakers to work together and pass policy that helps all American people and that preserves our democratic form of government,” Crump said.

“This is what leadership looks like, sounds like and does,” podcaster Chris Hahn tweeted.

Strategist Steve Schmidt added, “The early morning hours of January 7 marked the rise of a new American leader: Hakeem Jeffries. The thunderclap was the magnificence of his voice rising in defense of the American creed and his taking his place in a long line of liberty’s defenders.”

Actor Rob Reiner simplified the outpouring of accolades resulting from Jeffries’ speech.

“A star is born,” Reiner declared.

CBC Begins ‘Busy’ 2023 Meeting with Biden Administration Over Border Policies

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

While House Republicans spent a week publicly bickering and 15 rounds voting to elect Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California as Speaker, the Congressional Black Caucus was already hard at work on behalf of its millions of constituents.

In the 118th Congress, the CBC will have 58 members, nine of whom are new to the chamber.

Steven Horsford, a Democrat from Nevada, was chosen as chair.

The rest of the executive committee is made up of Democrats from New York, Louisiana, Georgia, and Washington: Yvette Clarke, Troy Carter, Lucy McBath, and Marilyn Strickland.

Due to the lengthy speakership vote, Congress could not do business during the first week of the new legislative year. Despite this, Horsford and other CBC

members still managed to talk about one of their 2023 goals.

Members were worried about the Biden administration’s plan to stop people from Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Haiti from crossing the border.

Horsford stated, “America is a nation of immigrants.”

He argued that the right to access could save lives in many situations.

Horsford and Clarke said that the government’s policy, which is very similar to that of the Trump administration, should be looked at again immediately.

Even though Biden’s new program intends to speed up the asylum process, “the reality is that the administration’s actions have the potential to threaten the safety and humanity of migrants,” as Horsford put it.

Horsford’s parents are native Trinidadians, while Clarke’s ancestors came to the United States from Jamaica.

During a meeting with DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, which Horsford led, the topic of Haitian migrants was central.

Horsford says, “Members talked about the real-life experiences of their constituents with migration and their worries about the continuation of Title 42. They also stressed the importance of giving everyone fair and equal access to asylum and other ways to move.”

Trump’s pandemic-era Title 42 law allowed the United States to deport hundreds of thousands of asylum seekers on public health grounds.

Horsford praised the CBC and Mayorkas for “taking the right step in the right direction” by collaborating on a government-wide strategy to address migration at entry points.

The caucus’ chair said the CBC is eager to collaborate with Biden on finding “humanitarian-focused solutions.”

The CBC has not yet released all its priorities for 2023 due to the delay in electing a speaker, but it expects a busy

session.

Maxwell Frost (D-FL), the youngest new member at age 25, is the first person from Generation Z to serve in Congress.

Summer Lee, 35, is the first Black woman to represent Pennsylvania in the United States House of Representatives.

After being sworn in for the first time on January 3, 1991, D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, now 85, is beginning her 16th term this month.

“I do not know if we have ever needed you more than we do now,” said Marcia Fudge, the former chair of the CBC and the current secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The CBC “has been the conscience of the Congress, the moral center that ensures that the people in communities whose blood, sweat, and tears built this country are never forgotten by this storied institution for over 50 years,” Fudge asserted.

New York Democratic Rep. Hakeem Jeffries provided a masterclass on leadership and served up a clear reminder of what an up-and-coming senator from Illinois named Barack Obama once did during

Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California

The best duo in the biz.

Power a house full of

Restrictions apply. Ends 2/15/2023. Not available in all areas. Limited to Fast Internet with up to 800 Mbps download speed

only. O er requires enrollment in both paperless billing and automatic payments with stored bank account. Without enrollment, the monthly service charge automatically increases by

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or debit card information). The discount will appear on your bill within 45 days of enrolling in automatic payments and paperless billing. If either automatic payments or paperless billing with stored bank account are subsequently cancelled, the $10 monthly discount will be removed automatically. Equipment, installation, taxes and fees and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change during and a er the term contract. A er 24 months, regular charges apply. Comcast’s service charge for Fast Internet is $92/mo. (subject to change). Service limited to a single outlet. May not be combined with other o ers. Internet: Actual speeds vary and not guaranteed. Many factors a ect speed, including equipment performance, interference, congestion, and speeds of visited websites. WiFi speeds a ected by additional factors, including distance from Gateway, home con guration, personal device capabilities, and others. For factors a ecting speed visit www.x nity.com/networkmanagement. All devices must be returned when service ends. X nity Mobile: Requires residential post-pay X nity Internet service. Line limitations may apply. For X nity Mobile Broadband Disclosures visit: www.x nity.com/mobile/policies/ broadband-disclosures. Actual savings vary and are not guaranteed. Call for restrictions and complete details. © 2023 Comcast. All rights reserved. NPA243877-0003 NED-It's a Fact-V5