CARE FREE
Concerned Americans For Racial Equality
A Take Power Back Publication—Financial Literacy & Empowerment Edition
Different Shades Scattered Globally Same Goal www.ourcare.org
26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY 11242 n Tel: 718.243.9431 n Fax: 718.222.3153 n Email: info@ourcare.org n Issue #24
Master Your Life: Financial Literacy Empowerment
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Credit and Loans Decisions about credit and loans involve lots of factors, including how much money you need, what terms you’re offered, and who is behind the offer. If you are choosing a credit card or wondering whether offers of credit and loans are on the up and up, do research.
BY CARE EDITORS
oney matters. And using tried and true strategies for dealing with money — or the lack thereof — can make a big difference in your present and your future. Whether you are saving, spending, or borrowing money, you can’t afford to overlook or ignore it. Here are some general tips:
Shopping & Saving Realistic budgeting is the key to maintaining a financial safety net and spending wisely. Whether you’re shopping for things you buy routinely — or saving for that occasional big-ticket item — planning is key. Try to save money on everyday purchases, as well as on some products and services you buy once in a while.
Buying & Owning a Car Having a car can be an expensive proposition. Read tips on buying versus leasing, negotiating the best deal, financing, getting the most out of warranties and service contracts, using gas efficiently, and avoiding repossession.
Dealing with Debt Debt collection, debt management, debt relief, debt settlement. Debt is a four-letter word that’s the subject of some complex laws. Learn how to exercise your rights and how to recognize debt-related scams and frauds.
Making College Affordable ...see page 8 CIR: Obama’s Proposed Amnesty to Expand DACA? ... see page 9
INSERT
What Is Financial Literacy? Financial literacy is vital to individuals and small businesses. The President's Advisory Council on Financial Literacy
continued on page 12
8 Signs Your Spouse Could Be Leaving OR Leaving You Poorer ...see page 7 OCTOBER IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH:
Love Doesn’t Have to Hurt
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BY PEARL PHILLIP
veryone has the right to feel safe in their homes, but, unfortunately not everyone does. Behind the white picket fence, the two-door garage, the high-rise apartment – in all types of homes – lurks the horror of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a vicious cycle that rears its ugly head in different forms.
HAICC President Damarys Butler: Chambers offer FREE Paralegal Certificate Program... see page 14
Honored by the NAACP
FREE Legal
consultations on bankruptcy issues.
Call 718-222-3155.
continued on page 15
NAN President Rev. Al Sharpton: On Replacing Attorney General Eric Holder ... see page 5
Brian Figeroux, Esq.
The Legacy of Eric Holder ...see page 2
Jennifer Hudson: 'Jenniferizes' New Album With Positive Energy ... see page 2
No Touchdown! The NFL Public Image Continues to Fumble Amidst Ray Rice Scandal
...see page 10
IN THE NEWS
Remembering Ruby Dee (Oct 27, 1922-June 11, 2014)
American actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter, journalist and activist.
The Legacy of Attorney General Holder
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ASHINGTON: Wade Henderson, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, released the following statement after reports that Attorney General Eric Holder will step down after serving the nation with distinction as one of the longest tenured attorneys general in American history: “Attorney General Holder has presided over one of the most forward-thinking and visionary Justice Departments in memory. Remembering only his historic confirmation as the first AfricanAmerican Attorney General would not do justice to his tenure over the past six years, which was one of the most successful in modern American history. Under his leadership, the Department of Justice has put forth groundbreaking
Jennifer Hudson: “Jenniferizes” New Album With Positive Energy
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e all know her story. The chubby 22-year-old with the powerful voice, that propelled her to seventh place on American Idol. We all know about her breakout success in Dream Girls, forcing the bright spotlight on her, where she won every single award that culminated in the biggest one of all, the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress, and a Grammy for her album. Then, a terrible tragedy struck Hudson in 2008, when her mother, brother
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reforms to our broken criminal justice system, championed the right to vote, defended the Affordable Care Act, protected homeowners from predatory lending, defended the federal government from state overreach on immigration laws, and backed the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act and LGBT equality. His tenure is even more remarkable considering that he was victim to an unprecedented witchhunt and abuse of power by House Republicans. Their attempt to stain the office by issuing the only contempt citation against a sitting cabinet member in modern history, only validated Attorney General Holder’s effectiveness and commitment to promoting the civil and human rights of all Americans. Attorney General Holder came to the
and nephew were murdered. Months after, she started recording her third album, and continued to climb the ladder of success with heartwarming songs. Fast-track to 2014 and Jennifer dropped her new album, “JHud” along with a new look and attitude which she refers to as “Jenniferizing”. When asked what is “Jenniferizing” the Chicagoan had this to say: “Jenniferizing” is about finding your groove; being happy and free. When questioned about her new direction
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
Eric Holder
job as one of the most well-prepared nominees ever considered for the post, and he has surpassed even those high expectations. We commend his service to our nation and will work to confirm a successor that will continue Justice’s commitment to the advancement of civil and human rights.”l Source: civilrights.org
and attitude, Hudson says she has often been considered a serious, artist and actress, maybe in reference to her very “heavy life experiences”. But that’s not who she really is; it’s not the real Jennifer Hudson. “It’s something I understand and it’s a part of me, but the thing that’s most of Jennifer is my positive energy. That’s why this was so important to create in this way and for people to get that and understand that. Even in the heaviest of times, I find the brightest light.” We get it Jennifer; we understand and we love it. l
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TIME FOR ACTION
October 2014 Month of Resistance to Mass Incarceration, Police Terror, Repression and the Criminalization of a Generation
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BY STEVEN YIP
owing a month of actions which “stand like a giant STOP sign,” to American society so that protests of mass incarceration, police murder, torture in prisons, criminalization of a generation and attacks on immigrants “can't be covered up, whited out, ignored, neutralized or suppressed,” organizers announced plans for the October 2014 Month of Resistance to Mass Incarceration, Police Terror, Repression and the Criminalization of a Generation. A wide variety of organizations will hold street protests, symposiums, campus actions, and outreach to prisons and courthouses. Initiated by revolutionary communist leader Carl Dix and Union Theological Professor Dr. Cornel West, the call for the month is endorsed by families of those killed by police, former prisoners, clergy, academics as well as community organizations, and public figures such as Chuck D, who recorded a song for the Month, and Alice Walker, whose poem “Gather,” is dedicated to Dix and Dr. West. Dix said, "Like so many others, I saw the video of police choking Eric Garner as he cried out, 'I can't breathe.' In Ferguson, MO I stood at the spot where a cop gunned down Michael Brown and left his body lying for hours. I protested his murder, and was picked out for arrest because I spoke in support of youths righteously demanding 'THIS MUST STOP!' In October, tens of thousands of people from many different backgrounds will join together all across the country to act to STOP it."
"How To" Suggestions for Taking Out the Pledge of Resistance This is the first action of the Month of Resistance. We aim to STOP mass incarceration, police terror, repression and the criminalization of a generation! Let’s do this pledge dramatic, let’s do it loud, let’s do it proud. With this first action, we are calling forth many more people to get involved throughout the month.
nGet as many people together as you can, whether that is 50-100 in front of City Hall in a large city with an active chapter of Stop Mass Incarceration, or in front of the city police station with five
Photo courtesy: Catherine April Watters
CARE CARE TEAM
Publisher I.Q. INC.
Managing Editor Pearl Phillip Senior Editors Randall Toure, Esq. Colin A. Moore, Esq. Assistant Editor Marilyn Silverman Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq.
of you who just recently met and aim to gather more for the month. Arrange everyone so the camera can get everyone in the picture, whether that’s TV cameras or your cell phone camera.
nPrint large versions of the Pledge of Resistance and the Stop sign. Have people hold them. The PDFs to print those are on the website. Be sure to have on the bottom or top or both, the website “stopmassincarceration.net.” Have that as large as needed to be read in photos or TV footage. We want everyone who sees this, to go to the website to find the ways they can get involved in the Month of Resistance.
nHave one person (not everyone) read what is on the red STOP sign on the SMIN website. Who’s your most dramatic reader? Have them read it.
nThen have one person (may be same person who read the STOP sign or another person) lead the group in reading the Pledge together beginning with “WE PLEDGE NO MORE!” Read slowly enough and with appropriate pauses to be heard clearly. Remember we are speaking to all who will hear and see this.
nHave a simple press packet to give press. It can consist of the press release and the Alice Walker poem “Gather” for Carl Dix and Cornel West. You can adapt the national press release so that it includes local info and demands.
nDesignate someone to talk further with the press. If there is no press available, someone interview someone with a cell phone camera. You can announce local demands, the next action you want to
announce and tell them to be there.
nTake still photos and video. Send to sminreports@gmail.com. Get this sent by the end of the day or right away if possible. These first actions should be up on the website immediately to show people the Month of Resistance has begun with a powerful demonstration of determination and a demand to all of society that mass incarceration, police terror, repression and the criminalization of a generation must STOP!
nBe prepared to talk to people who came to do the reading or others who see you do it, to give them ways right there on the spot to get involved in the Month of Resistance—be on the social media team, the press team, or the outreach team. Get everyone’s contact info to put on the elist (but give them ways to get involved right there, not “we’ll get back to you.”). Have materials there to give to people,so they can leave there on a mission to get out to others.
nTalk to people about going to Ferguson on the SMIN delegation. Or if they can’t go, they can donate frequent flier miles or money to send to others.
nAsk people for donations right on the spot and then ask them to donate more later. Have collection buckets so people will see you need and want money. No good ideas we have should be held back by the lack of money.l
Stop Mass Incarceration (SMIN): We're Better Than That!" Network T: 347-979-SMIN (7646) E: stopmassincarceration@gmail.com W: www.stopmassincarceration.org
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
Graphic & Website Designers Praim Samsoondar Lana Delgadillo Contributors Reverend Al Sharpton Vandell Park Marilyn Aguirre-Molina Jhodie-Ann Williams Janet Howard Steven Yip Email info@ourcare.org
Visit www.ourcare.org www.allblackradio.com
For civil rights news & legislative updates
Visit www.ourcare.org
Donate to CARE Today
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SMALL BUSINESS MATTERS
How NACC’s Small Business Solutions Can Help Your Business
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BY MARILYN SILVERMAN
re you an entrepreneur who is frustrated and perplexed and simply overwhelmed by the plethora of rules and regulations out there and are just at your wit’s end since you don’t have the foggiest idea who you can turn to for help? You took a huge step and exited the world of 9-5 and are now anxious to attach that “Open for Business” sign on your retail establishment. But before you climb that ladder you must make an appointment with the New American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) Small Business Solutions. NACC’s Small Business Solutions consultations are facilitated through the Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates. We have the answers. We have the expertise. We have the knowledge. We have the experience. And we have compassion and respect for the small business owner who wants to achieve the American Dream of business ownership. Here’s how we can help: If you are running a home-based business, which incidentally, is a very popular business genre today—your office can be but a few steps away in your kitchen, bedroom, basement, attic or wherever —you might just qualify for
home business tax deductions. You just started your business and already, we’re saving you money. If you are operating a business, you will need an accountant to help you pay your taxes every year; all those pages and pages with the tiny print, are time-consuming. Who has the time? If you are a savvy entrepreneur, you will most certainly want to avoid the unpleasant and scary experience of being audited. Who wants to meet with the IRS? If you are in business with a colleague, you will need a partnership or shareholders agreement. A handshake is not enough, even if your business partner is
your spouse. You should be knowledgeable about the most preferred legal structure for your business, e.g., sole proprietorship, corporation or LLC. You should formulate a business plan, which is an absolute prerequisite for every single business owner—this is needed when you are hunting for funding sources; e.g., banks or venture capitalists. You certainly are not going to dip into your pocket for cash. You should decide what type of accounting software would be most appropriate for your business. Is QuickBooks the right choice? You should either handle your bookkeeping and accounting in-house or out-
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
source it; the latter is a cost-effective strategy since you won’t have to hire fulltime staff to perform this vital function. You should make a determination as to who should control your business’s checkbooks. You should be aware of your sales tax responsibilities. You should have an expert review your franchise agreement in the event you are interested in exploring opportunities in the exciting and lucrative world of franchising. In summation—under one roof, Small Business Solutions incorporates the expertise and experience of a Legal Department, a Tax Preparation and Audits Department, an Accounting and Bookkeeping Department, a Franchising Department and a Collections Department—all of the departments that will enable you to focus all your energy on attracting customers and watching your business grow. Just imagine, you are a small business and yet, you will enjoy personalized attention from departments that are an integral component of Big Business. That’s how NACC’s Small Business Solutions can help your business. To set up an appointment for a Small Business Solutions consultation, call 718-834-0910.l
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CIVIL RIGHTS
Replacing Eric Holder Without Displacing Voting Rights and Civil Rights
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BY REVEREND AL SHARPTON
PRESIDENT, NATIONAL ACTION NETWORK
lmost as quickly as news broke that Attorney General Eric Holder was resigning, people began assessing and critiquing his record. They speculated over his replacement, and will likely continue doing so until an official announcement is made. But amid all the noise, it's important that we do not lose sight of one undeniable reality: Eric Holder has been the best Attorney General (AG) this nation has ever had in the area of civil rights and voting rights. I challenge anyone to show me an AG who has done more in this realm than Holder. The bottom line is you can't; his work is simply unmatched. Our job is to ensure that his efforts continue on with the next AG, whoever he or she may be. We in the civil rights community must strongly advocate maintenance and continuance of a Justice Department that will fight aggressively in these areas. Throughout his tenure, Holder has consistently lived up to the notion of advancing civil rights in this country in an effort to right some of our past — and present —wrongs. No other AG made the moves he did in terms of addressing sentencing
disparities, unfair mandatory sentencing laws and other discriminatory policies. No other AG combatted efforts towards voter suppression with lawsuits against new voter ID laws and an end to early voting. No other AG aggressively fought for marriage equality, and against gender inequality as he has. And no other AG, including Bobby Kennedy, personally went to the scene of a civil rights complaint as he did in Ferguson, MO. The list goes on; his track record speaks for itself. Holder may be questioned in other areas, such as civil liberties, but in those areas, he still stands without peer in my judgment. The reality is that his commitment towards justice and equality has been unrivaled, and it is the same reason why many on the right have attacked him continuously throughout his time as AG. The issue we confront before we get to
who will replace Holder is to prevent his achievements in the areas of civil rights and voting rights from being dismissed, or altered somehow. The governing principle that this Administration has staked out under Holder must be continued. The who should come from the what (meaning policies); the what should not come from the who. When Holder's resignation went public, we immediately contacted the White House's Office of Engagement to encourage that whoever is advising the President on a replacement consider not just the who, but the what. We are sure that advocates in labor, women's rights, the business community and other interest groups will be weighing in their advice as we weigh in ours to whatever team of advisors will engage in deliberations with the President. As a civil rights
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
leader, it is my duty to advocate on behalf of the voiceless and push for a new AG that will carry on Holder's immense work in this space. Ironically, I was holding a press conference at the National Press Club with the parents of Michael Brown (who was killed by police in Ferguson), and the mother of Eric Garner (who was killed by police in Staten Island from an apparent illegal chokehold), when we received word of Holder's resignation. It was Holder that persistently dealt with policing matters, and just this month even announced a new federal initiative to study racial bias and to build trust between law enforcement and communities. Families like that of Michael Brown, Eric Garner and so many others don't know about lists of potential replacements; they just pray that justice and reform as directed from the top, continues to impact police departments and neighborhoods around the country. They just hope that whatever leanings the Justice Department began to show in dealing with police accountability will not be displaced in a Beltway shuffle of who replaces Eric Holder.l Follow Rev. Al Sharpton on Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheRevAl
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HOT TOPIC
Police Aggression: A Social Determinant of Health (and Death)
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MARILYN AGUIRRE-MOLINA, CUNY SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
ost recently, New York City and the nation have seen the reemergence of a rash of police use of force or arrests that resulted in the death of individuals from communities of color. These recent events caught the attention of the media during the summer lull when there are few breaking news events. The police killing of Eric Garner (a Black male) by an illegal chokehold was ruled by the New York City medical examiner as a homicide. Shortly thereafter, a New York City police officer placed a 27-year-old pregnant black woman in a chokehold after she was accused of illegally grilling on her stoop in East New York, Brooklyn. Her child, who stood nearby, witnessed the police officer's aggression. These events were followed by the killing of Michael Brown by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri. Unfortunately, such events are not new, but examples of a chronic law enforcement disease syndrome with acute episodes. Therefore, alert the media that these are old, unaddressed, and always incensing news reports.
Police Aggression Syndrome Police action that results in relentless deaths and disability in communities of
color can best be defined and classified as a social determinant of health (SDH) because of the imbedded structural phenomenon that contributes to its occurrence. Here again is the synergy of poverty, racism, and policy that come together to determine a community's health — and in many instances death. What are the social determinants of health? They are the social and economic factors that influence people's health and that are beyond an individual's behavior. They are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age. These circumstances are shaped by the distribution of money, power and resources at global, national and local levels, and social policies. These are apparent in the living and working conditions that people experience every day. They include, but are not limited to: Police aggression as a SDH: For urban poor communities of color, it has been well established that stress and anxiety are very often the outcome of efforts to manage one's life under these circumstances. Added to these stressors is a community's fear of the random acts of police aggression against men of color, as well as the expectation that such an act will go without impunity. Children and family members who observe these events experience
trauma precipitated by such an insecure environment.
Injustice of Neglect Comparable to the injustice and failure of public and elected officials to address health inequities in New York City, is the delay in charging officers when evidence supports misconduct; the lack of accountability by those responsible for the killings; the sullying of victims; and, the structural racism that plagues law enforcement bodies. In many cases, there is a comparable amount of insult to the injury, when injustice is intensified by the disregard and treatment of the deceased victim's bodies. The body of Michael Brown lay in the street uncovered for four hours before it was removed by the authorities. This caused his family members great distress as well as the local residents who observed it.
When Will It Stop? While there are numerous interventions and policy initiatives that could bring an end to policing tactics as a social determinant of health/death within communities of color, it will not end until there is political will to do so. This starts with Mayor Bill de Blasio who was elected on a campaign that rejected controversial
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
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police tactics, and the promise of a just City. This can start by his "doing his damn job"! Change will also require accountability by those who are responsible for the culture of racist violence that is ingrained within police departments across the country and New York City in particular. The policy of "tolerance and negligence" must stop! But if we are to learn from history, and most recently from the citizens of Ferguson, little can be achieved without communities taking charge and demanding the accountability of decision makers; even in the presence of war armament used to deter protests. Ferguson's unrelenting cry for justice caused there to be the beginning of a conversation on racism in this country, and its consequence within the police departments across the country. The public health and social justice communities must do their work in this matter. It begins by recognizing how police aggression in communities of color is yet another social determinant of health that must be addressed. The goal must be to assure the health, safety, and well-being of all young people in communities of color. Take Charge! l
Article compliments National Institute for Latino Policy
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FAMILY ISSUES
8 Signs that Your Spouse Could Be Leaving YOU or Leaving You Poorer
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BY JHODIE-ANN WILLIAMS
arely does a divorce, especially when it comes to settling financial disputes, end smoothly. Sometimes estranged spouses try to hide their assets in an attempt to avoid splitting it with one another. If your monthly family expenses exceed your monthly income, and your savings account is not used to cover the deficit, then the money to cover any extra expenses could be coming from an account that you have no knowledge of.
Sign 1: Look through any documentation of your spouse’s income and corresponding bank statements to make sure that the income matches what has been deposited. If it does not, then money could be deposited into an account you do not know about. Has your estranged spouse taken up any expensive hobbies? Perhaps these hobbies would require a loan.
Sign 2: Ask to see any loan applications that your spouse may have filled out. Lenders require copies of a substantial amount of data in your financial records, so anything being hidden will most like-
ly surface in these applications.
Sign 3: Look into any other lifestyle changes that seem more lavish such as the purchase of expensive clothing, jewelry, and vacations. Money to pay for these lifestyle changes could be coming from a source of income that is hidden. Have you noticed that money has been transferred out of your joint account in the years or months leading up to the divorce? Sign 4: Review your bank statements and subpoena the information for the unknown account to see who owns it.
Sign 5: Make note of any withdrawals that happen routinely without your consent. Keeping an eye on bank accounts should include any custodial accounts— accounts in a child’s name.
Sign 6: Review the withdrawals and deposits on custodial accounts. Your estranged spouse could be using a custodial account as his/her personal account to conceal assets. If your spouse owns a business, then assets can be hidden in additional ways, for instance, by falsifying expenses—to
give the appearance of having less income.
Sign 7: Request a list of your spouse’s employees to see if checks, which can be cancelled after the divorce is finalized, are being written to nonexistent employees.
Sign 8: Make note of any suspicious gifts of large sums of money to family members of your estranged spouse. That money may be given back to your spouse
after the divorce is finalized. Hiding money from your estranged spouse may seem like just a question of morals, but it can also lead to criminal charges. Divorce proceedings include a process called discovery. This is where both parties will have to swear, under oath, to the truthfulness of their disclosed assets. If they are found to be intentionally concealing any assets, then they could be charged with perjury.l
Family Law Practice Summarized
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nDIVORCE nSEPARATION nSUPPORT nCUSTODY The lawyer you hire, does make a difference!
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BROOKLYN: 26 Court Street, Suite 701. Tel: 718-834-0190 For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
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OBAMA ADMINISTRATION
Making College Affordable
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arning a post-secondary degree or credential is no longer just a pathway to opportunity for a talented few; rather, it is a prerequisite for the growing jobs of the new economy. Over this decade, employment in jobs requiring education beyond a high school diploma will grow more rapidly than employment in jobs that do not; of the 30 fastest growing occupations, more than half require postsecondary education. With the average earnings of college graduates at a level that is twice as high as that of workers with only a high school diploma, higher education is now the clearest pathway into the middle class. Hgher education is the single-most important investment that Americans can make in their futures; increasing their future potential earnings and lowering their risk of unemployment. Despite these benefits, the cost of attaining this education has skyrocketed over the past few decades, putting college out of reach for too many low- and middle-income families. Over the past three decades, the average tuition at a public four-year college has more than tripled, while a typical family’s income has barely budged. As a result, more students than ever before are relying on student loans to pay
for their college education. Today, 71 percent of students earning a bachelor’s degree graduate with debt, which averages $29,400. While most students are able to repay their loans, many feel burdened by debt, especially as they seek to start a family, buy a home, launch a business, or save for retirement. The President and his Administration have a long track record of taking steps to make college more affordable and accessible for families. And as part of his year of action to expand opportunity for all Americans, the President is committed to building on these efforts by using his pen and his phone to make student debt more
affordable and manageable to repay. On June 9, 2014, the President signed a new Presidential Memorandum directing the Secretary of Education to propose regulations that would allow an additional 5 million federal direct student loan borrowers the opportunity to cap their student loan payments at 10 percent of their income. The Memorandum also outlines a series of new executive actions aimed to support federal student loan borrowers, especially vulnerable borrowers who may be at greater risk of defaulting on their loans. Over the course of his Administration, President Obama has worked tirelessly to make college more accessible, affordable, and attainable for all American families. Here are some examples:
Increasing Pell Grant awards The President has raised the maximum Pell Grant award to $5,730 for the 201415 award year — a nearly $1,000 increase since 2008. Under the President’s leadership, the number of Pell Grant recipients has expanded by 50 percent over that same time, providing college access to millions of additional lowincome and middle-class students across the country. The Obama Administration’s landmark investment in the Pell Grant was enacted in the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010,
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
which ended student loan subsidies for private financial institutions and banks and shifted over $60 billion in savings back to students.
New tax credits to help families pay for college President Obama established the American Opportunity Tax Credit in 2009, to assist families with the costs of college, providing up to $10,000 for four years of college tuition for families earning up to $180,000, 11.5 million families are expected to now benefit from the American Opportunity Tax Credit.
Reforming student loan programs to increase college aid The education-related initiatives funded by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act are fully paid for by ending the government subsidies currently given to financial institutions that make guaranteed federal student loans. Starting July 1, all new federal student loans will be direct loans, delivered and collected by private companies under performance-based contracts with the Department of Education. According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, ending these wasteful subsidies will free up nearly $68 billion for college affordability and deficit reduction over the next 11 years.l
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IMMIGRATION
CIR: Obama’s Proposed Amnesty to Expand DACA?
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There also are indications Obama could make concessions to business interests such as the high-tech industry in hopes of softening opposition to the other policy changes.
BY JANET HOWARD
hen immigration reform stalled in the House, President Obama announced that he would take matters into his own hands and “fix as much of our immigration system as I can on my own, without Congress.” Pressured by the looming elections in November, Obama backtracked on his promise to act on immigration by the end of the summer. He did announce though, that some sort of immigration reform would occur in November. In the meantime, President Obama continues to solidify his record as the President who has deported more immigrants than any other administration.
Using Executive Authority By using his executive authority as President, Obama would try to reshape policy without going to Congress.The truth is, the President has the responsibility, as well as the authority, to regulate the enforcement of immigration law, a task that has become far more difficult in light of Congress’ failure to pass immigration reform. Given this failure, the President must use the executive authority available to him to create a more fair and transparent process for determining who should
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be deported and who should be allowed to remain in the United States temporarily. Some of the recommendations Obama may be considering are: •Expanding his Deferred Action for Arrivals (DACA) program. The program is currently limited to young undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as minors. Some advocates are recommending that Obama expand the program to include undocumented parents and siblings of immigrants already approved. •Expanding the use of "parole in place" to include undocumented immigrants already in the U.S. who are eligible for green cards. That would allow them to get
Green Cards without having to first return to their country and wait 10 years.
•Allow some family members who have been deported to return to the U.S. to reunite with relatives in the U.S. who are citizens through the expanded use of "humanitarian parole." •Allow immigrants who receive deferred action, temporary protected status, asylum or refugee status to join the military and, after serving five years, be eligible for citizenship. Immigrants without permanent residency are currently barred from the military.
Legacy Other Presidents from both parties have used prosecutorial discretion to prevent specific, and often, large groups of immigrants from being deported, including George Bush, Sr. in 1990 who announced a “Family Fairness”policy to defer deportations and provide work authorization to up to 1.5 million unauthorized spouses and childrene of immigrants who qualified for legalization under 1986 Congressional legislation. By using his executive authority as President, Obama would try to reshape policy without going to Congress. The President's legacy has not yet been cemented, however. If he acts boldly to allow all those with long term ties to the country to apply to stay and work in the U.S., President Obama will be remembered not for his failure to act, but for recognizing the social and economic benefits of this seemingly controversial decision.l
ALL IMMIGRATION MATTERS lGET THE FACTS
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CONVERSATIONS
No Touchdown! The NFL’s Public Image Continues to Fumble Amidst Ray Rice Scandal
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BY JHODIE-ANN WILLIAMS
fter over a week of being absent from the public eye, Roger Goodell gave a disappointing press conference that left the public more confused, suspicious and angry with the National Football League (NFL) Commissioner. “I'm not satisfied with the way we've handled it from the get go… I'm not satisfied with the process we went through, I'm not satisfied with the conclusions,” Goodell said. Well, the public is not satisfied either. Not only did his speech sound rehearsed; it was completely void of sincerity. Though there has been a declaration of change—a new domestic abuse policy and mandatory domestic violence training—coming from Goodell and other NFL executives, the league has been met with scrutiny and for good reason. In February, Ray Rice, former Baltimore Raven running back, beat his then fiancée Janay Palmer unconscious. In March, he was indicted on aggravated assault charges. In July, he was suspended from the first two games of the 2014 NFL season and fined $58,000. Now in September, as the horrific video of the violent attack, obtained by TMZ, has surfaced in its entirety, Rice has been indefinitely suspended by the NFL. Judging by the time-
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell
line, despite the indictment, it seemed as if Goodell was willing to issue the bare minimum punishment—until the public outcry forced him to take a harsher stance. In a recent letter to NFL chief executives and club presidents, Goodell maintained his claims of not knowing the details of what happened between Rice and his fiancée. “We did not see a video of what took place inside the elevator until it was publicly released. When the new video evidence became available, we acted promptly and imposed an indefinite suspension on Mr. Rice,” wrote Goodell.
Rice’s camp has since released a statement indicating that he plans to appeal the suspension, citing that the video was edited to make the incident look worse than it was. No amount of editing could refute the fact that he struck his fiancée with such force that it caused her to be clearly knocked unconscious. By definition, aggravated assault is the intent to cause severe bodily harm to another person. Rice was indicted for aggravated assault in March. Outside of the protection of the NFL, those charges could land an offender in prison for three to five years. Did Goodell really have to see the tape to conclude that what Rice did, was cause for more than a two game suspension and a $58,000 fine? Though Goodell has vehemently denied that he or anyone else in the League saw the infamous video before it was released to the public, reports have surfaced that say otherwise. A law enforcement official, as told to the Associated Press, claimed that NFL executives received a copy of the tape in April. He reiterated his claim during the press conference. Rice’s original punishment—a slap on the wrist—was contingent on Goodell’s claims of not seeing the severity of what went on between Rice and Palmer that night. If this discrepancy is found to be true, Goodell and other executives could join Rice on the unemployment line. Ignorance may not be quite as blissful as the NFL would like to believe. Many think that Goodell should step down even if he really didn’t see the video prior to its public release. John Feinstein, sports columnist for The Washington Post, did not mince words while discussing the scandal with Reuters. “If Goodell did see the video, which he says he didn't, then he should be fired," said Feinstein. “If he didn't see the video, then he probably should be fired too—because he should have seen the video.” The off-putting press conference did little to subdue the public’s plea for his resignation. After Goodell’s seemingly callous display, even players in the NFL took to Twitter to express disappointment, but it remains to be seen if League executives will take heed. Goodell’s mishandling of the Rice case is not the only thing that has many scratching their heads. Palmer, who is now married to Rice, is standing by her husband. The two moved up their nuptials, marrying just a day after Rice’s March indictment. On the morning following the release of the infamous video, Palmer took to Instagram to express her devotion to her husband. “No one knows the pain that the media and unwanted opinions from the public has caused my family. To make us relive a moment in our lives that we regret every day is a horrible thing. THIS IS OUR LIFE…just know we will continue to grow and show the world what real love is,” Palmer wrote. After seeing her being brutally knocked unconscious and then dragged out of the elevator by Rice, women across the country were stunned at how strongly Palmer was defending her husband. Many questioned
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why she would even marry Rice after that horrific night in the elevator. In an interview with ABC’s “TODAY”, wives of former NFL players discussed why they believed Palmer stayed with Rice. “Thank goodness I was not in a situation to make that choice, but I think I would probably end up being one to stay, because you assume that role. You're there to support, and you uphold the image that you feel is necessary for your family," said Michelle Rivera, wife of former NFL offensive lineman, Marco Rivera. Sadly, abuse against wives and girlfriends is not uncommon in the NFL, Rice was not the first player to be charged in a violent altercation and he won’t be the last. There are many domestic violence occurrences that never see the light of day because of what Rivera explained—it’s all about keeping up appearances. Most people can relate to taking the stress of work home with them, but for a sport that capitalizes and encourages players to be aggressive, the NFL should have set tougher standards for their players off the field, way before the Rice scandal. The NFL’s public relation’s department has been working overtime to counter its image of a violence enabler. The League announced that it has added three female domestic violence experts as its senior advisors on domestic abuse policy. Lisa Friel, Jane Randel, and Rita Smith will be working closely with League executives as the Ray Rice saga continues to unfold. A memo was sent out to teams, by Goodell, which explained that the addition will “help lead and shape the NFL's policies and programs relating to domestic violence and sexual assault.” Allegations of abuse have already been taken more seriously, as Adrian Peterson has come to find out. The Minnesota Vikings’ star running back was recently indicted on a felony charge of child abuse for severely spanking his 4-year-old son with a switch, which resulted in severe bruising on his back, butt, ankles, legs and scrotum. Initially, the Vikings suspended Peterson but reinstated him after losing against the New England Patriots .He reinstatement proved that the NFL has a long way to go in managing its priorities. Sponsors of the League have remained quiet during this turbulent time for the NFL, but after the reinstatement of Peterson, one sponsor decided that the NFL was bad for business. The Raddison Hotel chain decided to suspend its sponsorship of the Vikings. “Radisson takes this matter very seriously, particularly in light of our long-standing commitment to the protection of children," the company statement said. "We are closely following the situation and effective immediately, Radisson is suspending its limited sponsorship of the Minnesota Vikings while we evaluate the facts and circumstances.” The indefinite loss of a sponsor caught the attention of the Vikings, Peterson has since been suspended indefinitely. This football season, what’s going on off the field, has more people on the edge of their seats than the actual game. l
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SOCIAL CONCERNS
Healthy Behaviors of Fatherhood a Key Concern
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BY VANDELL PARK
ew York City Department of Youth and Community Development (NYC DYCD), is ensuring measures are in place to adequately equip fathers across the city with resources on healthy behaviors that will positively impact the relationship they have with their children. At a symposium recently held by the DYCD, city administrators focused on what they term: “Promoting Healthy Behaviors through Fatherhood Programs.” The objective, they say, is to provide children with opportunities to interact more with their fathers since: “studies have shown that children involved with their fathers are less likely to get into trouble and that an active and nurturing style of fathering is associated with better intellectual functioning and academic achievement among children and adolescents.” Dr. Aletha Maybank, Assistant Commissioner, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, says a holistic approach to fatherhood is required for there to be healthy children, and thus a healthy community: “Based on evidence, we know that one of the greatest protective factor, for a person’s health is how far along have they gone in school. What is
the level and quality of their education? And so, conversations around education, income, safety and incarceration all become important when we are talking about the health of the community and the impact that is has on the emotional wellbeing or the behavioral health of that person as well, and not to think of them as separate because one affects the other, so when we talk about the health of our fathers, it is most certainly important that we are addressing all of these factors and that we are not segmenting our conversations, because when you segment the conversations, you segment what you think the solution should be. And so, the idea that we at DYCD can come together and have this conversation, is a great start.” The city has partnered with a number of organizations across the five boroughs to provide fathers with the help and resources they need so that they can in turn, provide fatherly care to their children. At these centers fathers interact at various levels with trained professionals who guide them into being better fathers. While the general focus encompasses the emotional, spiritual, cultural and educational well-being of the father, the discussions at the symposium were directed to the health of fathers since it plays a critical role in the whole scheme of father-
hood. Charles Greene, Director of the Young Fatherhood Program at the Claremont Neighborhood Center from the Bronx, and Larry Edwards, Program Supervisor, Forestdale Fathering Initiative, from Queens, respectively, share their views on the fatherhood drive and the importance health plays: “The whole goal of the fatherhood initiative is to increase gentlemen engagement with their children emotionally, spiritually, culturally and of course, economically, but in order to do that, they have to be healthy. In order to accomplish those goals there must be access to healthcare. Being healthy is important for them to seek employment so as to build that economic foundation for their children and to sustain their family, especially if they are not living with the woman who bears their child or children, to help deal with child support issues or whatever the case may be. So when you talk about health, it plays an integral role in so many areas, for instance, one may need to have a physical to get a job, you might need clearance. So what we do, we are like a clearing house of resources for these young men. We partner with the Mount Sinai Medical Center which has a hepatitis and liver screening component and it is very important because we work with young fathers
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between the ages of 16 to 24. A lot of these young people are getting tattoos and many of them don’t know the risk that comes with that and so they might be at risk for hepatitis C, and it is important for them to stay healthy for their children.” Greene added: “The key takeaway from this is promoting health and nutrition among fathers who customarily come from low-income families and do not have custody of their kids and empowering them by giving them the necessary resources. We also go out into the community and reach out to fathers and encourage them to participate in our programs, helping them to commit to being healthy for the sake of their children. We are pretty extensive in terms of trying to help men across the city understand their role as fathers and how their being healthy contributes to the wellbeing of their children as well. My mantra to fathers is to let them know that they are not alone and that the situation you are experiencing out there will end because it’s temporary. We try to get them out of the mindset that their present situation is not the end of their lives, and that there is help for them to focus on what they need to focus on, get the knowledge base and the skills that we are trying to impart; they can become that father that they never thought they could be.”l
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MONEY MATTERS Master Your Life: Financial Literacy Empowerment/ continued from page 1
defines personal financial literacy as "the ability to use knowledge and skills to manage financial resources effectively for a lifetime of financial well-being." (2008 Annual Report to the President) Personal financial literacy is more than just being able to balance a checkbook, compare prices or get a job. It also includes skills like long-term vision and planning for the future, and the discipline to use those skills every day. In the U.S., we make great efforts to teach children to read and write, but we don't give their financial literacy the same attention. As a result, few young people know how to manage their personal financial lives.
A Secure Financial Future Advocating for healthy and responsible use of financial services is something that MasterCard takes to heart. To educate and encourage responsible spending, MasterCard has developed financial literacy programs. One such program is Master Your Card: Oportunidad, that helps under-banked families: •Learn how to get out of the cash economy and into cards to gain financial empowerment and move up •Save time and money by avoiding expensive check cashing
FINANCIAL FREEDOM LITERACY & EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM!
Thursday, Oct 16, 2014 DC 9 Union Building 45-15 36th Street Long Island City Call 718-722-9217
•Gain greater safety and fraud protection •Pay bills and transfer money online •Get access to more affordable goods and services through the Internet
Just as there are no one-size-fits-all educational solutions, there are no magic bullets to attaining financial security. Consumers of all financial backgrounds are heartened to learn the several small and deliberate steps they can take to secure their financial futures. Whether online, peer-to-peer or through a trusted partner, MasterCard financial education programs teach a long-term approach to personal finance, promising solid and secure results. Consumers will be walked through the small, immediately actionable steps they can take to get themselves on the path to financial security. In turn, audiences the un-banked and
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under-banked – are immediately galvanized by our programs' empowering message. Anyone of any background or income level can secure their financial future, one step at a time.
Free Financial Literacy Program Join the New American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), the HispanicAmerican Chamber of Commerce (HAICC) and the African-American Chamber of Commerce (AAICC) and other partners, on Thursday, October 16, 2014 from 6pm for “Master Your Card: Oportunidad”. This event will be held at DC 9 Union, 45-15 36th Street, Long Island City, opposite the Aviation School. Greater financial empowerment is possible when people know how to get the right card and master its use. Learn: •Cost-savings through prepaid cards •Working with payroll •Build your credit score
Empower Yourself Knowledge is power. Attend and empower yourself. In addition to the financial literacy workshops by MasterCard, there will be presentations on: •Getting contracts from DC 9 •An introduction to the Worker to Business Owner Mentoring Program •Understanding President Obama’s Proposed Amnesty. l To register, visit www.mynacc.org or call 718-722-9217. Refreshments will be served.
A Special Invitation
to all faith-based leaders to empower their congregation and membership
from the IJLEF, Inc., a 501(c)(3) approved not-for-profit organization offering
FREE IMMIGRATION SEMINARS/ PRESENTATIONS & CONSULTATION CARDS ($100 VALUE) ON THE DAY OF THE PRESENTATION
Call 718-243-9431 to schedule a presentation
Creditors’ Harassments! Lawsuits! Foreclosures!
Get the legal help you need NOW! Call 718-834-0190!
FREE BANKRUPTCY CONSULTATION Save Your: *Home *Business *Car
*Health *Peace of Mind/Health *Marriage/Relationship
Filing a Chapter 7, 11 or 13 bankruptcy may be your only choice!!!
Documents Required: *List of debts *Your most recent tax returns *Correspondence from creditors *Lawsuit documents *Social Security and ID *List of assets
The Law Offices of Figeroux & Associates, 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY. Visit www.figeroux.com
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
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HEALTH
Cancer, Sex and Sexuality
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hen you first learned you had cancer, you probably thought mostly of survival. But after a while other questions may have started coming up. You might be wondering “How ‘normal’ can my life be, even if the cancer is under control?” Or even, “How will cancer affect my sex life?” It’s important to know that you can get help if you are having sexual problems after cancer treatment. There are many good treatments available. Sex and sexuality are important parts of everyday life. The difference between sex and sexuality is that sex is thought of as an activity— something you do with a partner. Sexuality is more about the way you feel about yourself as a woman, and is linked to intimacy or your need for caring, closeness, and touch. Feelings about sexuality affect our zest for living, our self-image, and our relationships with others. Yet patients and doctors often do not talk about the effects of cancer treatment on a woman’s sex life or how she can address problems she’s having. Why? A person may feel uneasy talking about sex with a professional like a doctor or even with a close sex partner. Many people feel awkward and exposed when talking about sex. This information is for all women who have or have had cancer — regardless of their sexual orientation. We cannot
member of your health care team. You need to know how your treatment will affect nutrition, pain, and your ability to return to work. You also have the right to know how your treatment could affect your sexual function.
answer every question, but we’ll try to give you enough information to help you and your partner have open, honest talks about intimacy and sex. We will also share some ideas about talking with your doctor and your cancer care team. Keep in mind that sensual/sexual touching between you and your partner is always possible, no matter what kinds of cancer treatment you’ve had. This might surprise you, especially if you are feeling down or have not had any sexual touching or activity for a while. But it’s true. The ability to feel pleasure from touch almost always remains. The first step is to bring up the topic of your sex life with your doctor or another
What is a normal sex life? People vary a great deal in their sexual attitudes and practices. This makes it hard to define “normal.” Some couples like to have sex every day. For others, once a month is enough. Many people see oral sex (using the mouth or tongue) as a normal part of sex, but some believe it’s not OK. “Normal” for you and your partner is whatever gives you pleasure together. Both partners should agree on what makes their sex life enjoyable. It’s common for people coping with cancer to lose interest in or desire for sexual activity at times. Doubts and fears, along with cancer and cancer treatment effects, can make you feel less than your best. Sometimes concerns about your health may be much greater than your interest in sexual activity. But as you get back to your usual routines, your desire for intimacy may return, too. It’s OK to be interested in sex throughout your life. There are some who think sex is only for the young, and that older people lose both their desire for sex and/or their ability to “perform.” Those
beliefs are largely myths. Many men and women can and do stay sexually active until the end of life. Still, it is true that sexual response and function may change over time with age. For example, more than half of men over age 40 have at least a little trouble with erections. For some of these men the problem is severe. Many women also notice changes as they get older, sometimes even before menopause begins. A decrease in sexual desire and problems with vaginal dryness may increase during and after menopause. Sometimes, sexual problems center around anxiety, tension, or other problems in a relationship. Other times, they may be the result of a physical condition, a medical condition, or medicines that cause or worsen sexual difficulties. But most symptoms can be treated. We now have medicines, therapy, surgery, and other treatments that can help people deal with most kinds of problems they may have. If you want to keep your sex life active, you can likely do so. If you’re in a relationship and one of you has a sexual difficulty, it affects both of you. If you are working on sexual problems, it works best when your partner can be part of the solution.l Source:www.cancer.org
Hosea: 4:6 - My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge
An Introduction to
HeartSmarts
HeartSmarts is a program to empower others to live heart-healthy lifestyles. The program seeks to educate pastors and community leaders to become educators in the community about cardiovascular health. What makes HeartSmarts different is that it uses a faith-based curriculum, so each of the ten sessions of the HeartSmarts program has a biblical scripture that goes along with it.
Applications will be available for the FREE Lay Health Ambassadors Join us on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2014 Program at 9am Who should attend?
Faith-based and community leaders Visit www.mynacc.org to register.
Location: NACC Conference Room 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY 11242
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
Tel: 718-722-9217
Email: info@mynacc.org
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JOBS & RECESSION
Local Chambers Offer FREE Paralegal Certificate Program
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BY JANET HOWARD
joint effort by the New American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), the African American International Chamber of Commerce (AAICC), and the Hispanic American International Chamber of Commerce (HAICC) offers to residents of the tristate community, an opportunity no one should allow to pass by—that of participating in free paralegal courses. HAICC Chamber President, Damarys Butler, says the three-month course will be an ongoing program open to as many individuals as possible: “This is a means of giving back to the community. Pretty much anyone from the tri-state area has access to the program. It is for all individuals who are at a cross-roads in life to engage in where they want to find other employment opportunities or if they want to change their careers. We have people from the Caribbean, Hispanics; we have people from India, people from China. We have people who believe that this is a great opportunity for them to learn new skills.” Butler says the program covers a number of key subject areas within the legal profession, such as legal writing, criminal law, the American judicial system,
the big three categories of law, bankruptcy and immigration law among other subjects that are adept enough to enable one to function effectively as a trained paralegal: “This program is a conduit for members of the community to equip themselves with the tools necessary to obtain jobs. Being a paralegal is a gateway to getting into a legal office; therefore, this course allows community members to prepare themselves to work as a paralegal in any legal office, a city agency or even do work at a not-for-profit organization. It is a great opportunity for individuals who are unemployed to develop a career and make themselves marketable.” With the job market being somewhat slow and crowded now due to the recent downturn in the economy, taking advantage of opportunities like this is certainly a viable option for anyone adventurous enough to embark on different career paths. According to Butler, the legal profession always has openings; therefore, equipping one’s self with additional knowledge only augurs well for their future. She noted that the paralegal profession is one of the fastest-growing careers in the United States. A certified paralegal professional she says, has unlimited scope since they can land part-
Paralegal Certificate Program Graduating Class of 2014 time jobs; they can freelance as well as secure a position in any of the thousands of law firms in the tri-state area or anywhere else in the United States. Currently, paralegals can earn upward of $40,000 a year. Participants of the program are required to complete at least eight of the subject areas and pass a written test before they receive the NACC Paralegal Certificate.
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
The program is the brainchild of NACC Founder/Chairman/CEO Brian Figeroux. Students at the end of the three-month course will receive a certificate from NACC. Classes are two-hour sessions held on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Information about the course can be accessed on NACC‘s website: www. mynacc.org or via telephone at 718-7229217.l
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS Love Doesn’t Have to Hurt/continued from page 1
What Is Domestic Violence? According to the Wikepedia Encyclopedia, domestic violence also known as domestic abuse, spousal abuse, child abuse or intimate partner violence (IPV), can be broadly defined as a pattern of abusive behaviors by one or both partners in an intimate relationship such as marriage, dating, family, friends or cohabitation. Domestic violence has many forms including physical aggression (hitting, kicking, biting, shoving, restraining, slapping, throwing objects), or threats thereof; sexual abuse; emotional abuse; controlling or domineering; intimidation; stalking; passive/covert abuse (e.g., neglect); and economic deprivation. Domestic violence may or may not constitute a crime, depending on local statutes, severity and duration of specific acts, and other variables. Alcohol consumption and mental illness can be co-morbid with abuse and present additional challenges when present alongside patterns of abuse. Awareness, perception and documentation of domestic violence differ from country to country, and from era to era. According to the Centers for Disease Control, domestic violence is a serious, preventable public health problem affecting more than 32 million Americans, or over 10% of the U.S. population.
Signs of Domestic Violence Domestic abuse often escalates from threats and verbal abuse to violence. And while physical injury may be the most obvious danger, the emotional and psychological consequences of domestic abuse are also severe. Emotionally abusive relationships can destroy your selfworth, lead to anxiety and depression, and make you feel helpless and alone. No one should have to endure this kind of pain—and your first step to breaking free is recognizing that your situation is abusive. Once you acknowledge the reality of the abusive situation, then you can get the help you need. There are many signs of an abusive relationship. The most telling sign is fear of your partner. If you feel like you have to walk on eggshells around your partner—constantly watching what you say and do in order to avoid a blow-up— chances are your relationship is unhealthy and abusive. Other signs that you may be in an abusive relationship include a partner who belittles you or tries to control you, and feelings of selfloathing, helplessness, and desperation.
Immigrants and Domestic Violence While domestic violence is a horrible experience for anyone, it is especially painful and damaging for immigrants. Imagine coming to the United States for a chance at a better life, only to find yourself in an abusive relationship, made worse when there are children involved and you are depending on your abuser (U.S. citizen or Green Cardholder) for your legal status. According to the Mayor’s Office to Combat Violence, challenges faced by
immigrant victims of domestic violence are especially relevant in New York City where 36% of the population is foreignborn, and over 120 different languages and dialects are spoken. Immigrant women (most likely victims) may be less likely to report abuse than non-immigrant women due to language barriers, cultural differences, and a fear of deportation if they are not legally documented to live in the U.S. Young, foreign-born women in New York City have been found to be at greater risk of being killed by their partners than any other group of women. Very often, no one knows about the abuse until it is too late. It is the policy of the New York City Police Department not to inquire about the immigration status of crime victims, witness, or others who call or approach the police seeking assistance.
Barriers for Immigrant Victims of Domestic Violence Domestic violence is a complex problem in general, but cultural influences can complicate the problem further and magnify the effects of abuse on women living in diverse communities. Cultural influences can create barriers which prevent immigrant victims of domestic violence from reaching out for help. There are three key barriers:
Limited Information The victim may: •Not be aware that domestic violence is against the law in the United States. •Believe that religion permits corporeal punishment of wives. •Not realize they have rights in the U.S. or that police and other service agencies will provide help regardless of immigration status. •Not be aware that services are available in their own language or know how to
tory restitution on those convicted, and allowed civil redress in cases prosecutors chose to leave unprosecuted. VAWA was drafted by then-U.S. Senator Joseph R. Biden's office with support from a number of advocacy organizations including the National Coalition Against Sexual Assault, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Legal Momentum and The National Organization for Women, which described the bill as "the greatest breakthrough in civil rights for women in nearly two decades." VAWA was reauthorized by Congress in 2000, and again in December 2005. The bill was signed into law by President George W. Bush on January 5, 2006 and was reauthorized in 2011. VAWA is a gender-neutral law and allows immigrant victims of domestic violence to self-petition for a Green Card for themselves and their children.
access services.
Social Pressure The victim may: •Believe that preserving the community or family reputation is more important than his/her personal rights. •Believe that police should not be involved in what they consider to be "family matters." •Believe that discussing marital or family problems with others may be tremendously shameful to them. •Believe that there is greater honor in persevering through adversity than in seeking assistance to ensure personal safety.
Fear of Authorities The victim may: •Fear deportation because spouse threatens to expose status even though, as a domestic violence victim, he/she may be protected from deportation. •Fear police, based upon negative experiences with police in their country of origin. •Fear losing custody of children upon separation from the spouse. •Fear losing support or being outcast from his/her cultural community. •Fear loss of financial stability because spouse controls access to finances.
The Violence Against Women’s Act The Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (VAWA) is a United States federal law. It was passed as Title IV, sec. 4000140703 of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 HR 3355 and signed as Public Law 103-322 by President Bill Clinton on September 13, 1994. It provided $1.6 billion to enhance investigation and prosecution of violent crimes perpetrated against women, increased pre-trial detention of the accused, imposed automatic and manda-
For more civil rights news & updates visit www.figeroux.com/civilrights
Getting a Green Card Without Your Spouse Victims of abuse who are married to U.S. citizens or LPRs, can file for their residency status (Green Card) on their own behalf and on behalf of their children. This is called the self-petitioning process. You must complete an immigration form and file supporting documents. There is also a fee to apply, but you may be eligible for a fee waiver. Please talk to an immigration attorney for additional information and assistance. If your spouse is not a U.S. citizen or LPR or you were never married to your abuser, you may be eligible for a U type visa when they become available. U visas will be available for victims of all crimes if they have information that will be helpful in the prosecution of the perpetrator of the crime and have suffered substantial injury. Again, speak to an immigration attorney for more information and assistance.
Help IS Available: Stop the Violence, Stop Green Card Slavery As a victim, you have to remember that domestic violence and abuse are used for one purpose and one purpose only: to gain and maintain total control over you. An abuser doesn’t “play fair.” Abusers use fear, guilt, shame, and intimidation to wear you down and keep you under his or her thumb. Your abuser may also threaten you, hurt you, or hurt those around you. Immigrants who are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault should know that HELP IS AVAILABLE. Call 718-222-3155 for an appointment for a FREE consultation to stop Green Card slavery today. The road to recovery starts with you, today. Call now.l
FREE Women’s Empowerment Information Session on Saturday, October 18 at 5pm. Visit www.mynacc.org for details and registration.
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