Buying A Home? Take Stock of These Things

from The Immigrant’s Journal - Vol. 175

Immigrants and Domestic Violence: What You Need to Know

AMERICAN DREAM Buying A Home? Take Stock of These Things

What are some of the most important factors that buyers take into consideration when looking for a new home? There are the obvious – things like price, square footage, location and lot size. Those are the basics. Other things that are often weighed are garage size, how updated the kitchen and baths are, and whether or not the basement is finished. All of these are very important to consider, but there are other more “hidden” aspects of a home that many prospective buyers don’t take into account. And it’s these aspects that could really come to bite them where it hurts if they’re not also assessed throughout the process. Your friends at Equity Smart Realty Inc want you to take a closer look:

HVAC Unit What’s the age of the furnace and air conditioner? Has the seller properly maintained each via filter changes and other standard service? A home inspector will be able assess the status of the HVAC unit to a certain extent, but it’s important to know whether or not replacement is imminent or more of a long-term issue. With furnaces averaging about $2,500 and air conditioners anywhere from $3,700 to $7,000, these are costs that must be considered.

Hot Water Tank Hot water tanks typically only last anywhere from eight to 12 years, and replacement costs for a new hot water tank are about $1,000 while a tankless unit could be significantly more expensive. Make sure you know how old the hot water tank is in the home and what type of maintenance has been performed on it since it was installed. Annual flushing helps remove debris and contaminants that infiltrate the tank.

Roof/Siding Roofs tend to last about 20 years these days before replacement is necessary. Again, the home inspector you hire to assess the home will be able to tell you the condition of the roof and whether replacement is imminent – and that’s information that you need to know. New roofs are expensive, and can range anywhere from $5,000 to $12,000 on a standard single-family home. Siding is another thing to assess. Though siding can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years, it may cost nearly as much as a roof to replace. Windows What’s the age and overall condition of the windows in the home? Being that a standard vinyl window costs about $600 and a wood window may cost upwards of $1,000, a whole-house window replacement job is a pretty penny. The bottom line is that no home is going to be 100 percent perfect in every single aspect – and that’s why it’s important to look at the big picture during the home buying process. Failure to take into account the aforementioned may potentially result in thousands of dollars of other expenses beyond your mortgage payment. Now that you are ready to make the commitment, help is just a phone call away. Call Equity Smart Realty Inc at 888-670-6791.l Using the guidelines, parties to a divorce are encouraged to attempt to reach an agreement regarding child support. This obligation is then included in the property settlement agreement. As is the case with custody and visitation, a court must approve any agreement reached regarding child support. The court's focus is to ensure an agreement regarding this matter generally complies with the child support guidelines. If there is a deviation, the court considers whether it is in the child's best interests for there to be a departure from the guidelines.

Spousal Maintenance or Alimony Finally, a property settlement agreement can include provisions that deal with spousal maintenance or alimony. States also have laws that govern how spousal support or alimony is computed. If the parties can craft a property settlement agreement, the document is presented to the court. The court will usually schedule a brief hearing if there is a settlement agreement in place. At the hearing, the court approves the property settlement agreement and then issues a final divorce decree.l

Elements of a Divorce Property Settlement Agreement/ continued from page 7

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USCIS Extends Green Card Validity Extension to 24 Months for Green Card Renewals

Effective Sept. 26, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is automatically extending the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) to 24 months for lawful permanent residents who file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Lawful permanent residents who properly file Form I-90 to renew an expiring or expired Green Card may receive this extension. Form I-90 receipt notices had previously provided a 12-month extension of the validity of a Green Card. USCIS has updated the language on Form I-90 receipt notices to extend the validity of a Green Card for 24 months for individuals with a newly filed Form I-90. On Sept. 26, USCIS began printing amended receipt notices for individuals with a pending Form I-90. These receipt notices can be presented with an expired Green Card as evidence of continued status. This extension is expected to help applicants who experience longer processing times, because they will receive proof of lawful permanent resident status as they await their renewed Green Card. If you no longer have your Green Card and you need evidence of your lawful permanent resident status while waiting to receive your replacement Green Card, you may request an appointment at a USCIS Field Office by contacting the USCIS Contact Center, and we may issue you an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp after you file Form I-90.

If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must replace your Green Card if: •Your Green Card is either expired or will expire within the next six months; •Your previous card was lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed; •You received your card before you were 14 and you have reached your 14th birthday (unless your card expires before your 16th birthday); •You have been a commuter and are now taking up actual residence in the United States; •You have been a permanent resident residing in the United States and are now taking up commuter status; •Your status has been automatically converted to permanent resident status (this includes special agricultural worker applicants who converted to permanent resident status); •You have a previous version of the alien registration card (for example, USCIS Form AR-3, Form AR-103 or Form I151, which are no longer valid to prove your immigration status) and must replace it with a current Green Card; •Your card contains incorrect information; •You have legally changed your name or other biographic information on the card since you last received your card; or •You never received the previous card we issued to you.

Conditional Permanent Residents •If you are a conditional permanent resident, you must replace your Green Card if: •Your previous card was lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed; •Your card contains incorrect information; •You have legally changed your name or other biographic information on the card since you last received your card; or •You never received the previous card we issued to you.l Immigration law is complex, please consult with an attorney. Visit www.askthelawyer.us or call 855-768-8845.

Orientation is Monday, Oct. 17, 2022

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Launch of New York State’s Institute for Immigration Integration Research & Policy to Help Immigrants Transition

On September 30, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of New York State's Institute for Immigration Integration Research & Policy to help immigrants transition to community life, further education, and the workforce. The Institute, which received funding in the FY 2023 State Budget, will be housed at the Rockefeller Institute of Government, the State University of New York's public policy think tank. The announcement coincides with the selection of an Advisory Board of community leaders, who will set in motion groundbreaking policy development and select an Executive Director and Assistant Director in the coming months. "New York is built on the hard work and determination of generations of immigrants, and this Institute will work to improve the lives of those who are trying to build better lives for themselves and their families," Governor Hochul said. "By clearing the boundaries for new New Yorkers, we can help to better integrate them into the New York community and access the New York Dream." Upon arrival, immigrants often struggle to learn English, help their children to assimilate in school, find safe and affordable housing, secure jobs with a livable wage, secure transportation to commute to said jobs, and access available services—often for fear of deportation. The Institute's Executive Director and Assistant Director will analyze real-time immigration, economic, labor, and other data and identify potential solutions for policymakers to help build on the state's commitment to supporting immigrants of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds. The launch of the Institute follows Governor Hochul's mission to protect immigrants, including those who are undocumented, who were forced to leave their homelands. In October 2021, the Governor signed legislation (S.343A/A.3412-A) classifying certain threats to report a person's immigration status as extortion or coercion under New York law. She opened up educational and housing opportunities to assist evacuees from Afghanistan and Ukraine. According to the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), 900 refugees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders resettled in New York State in 2021, primarily from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Syria, Afghanistan, and Burma. In the last 12 months, at least 1,300 Afghan evacuees were resettled in NYS as well.

Assemblymember Catalina Cruz said, "I am proud to have led the effort to create this Institute, which will focus on helping better shape policies that will improve the social, economic, and political integration of our state's large and growing immigrant communities. SUNY's vast resources of talent and experts in related fields is a promise of excellent research and policy recommendations that will improve the lives of all New Yorkers. The strong financial support provided for the Institute by Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie and the Assembly Majority is an enormous step in continuing to ensure New York leads the nation in not just welcoming immigrants but working to ensure they fulfill their American Dream."

SUNY Interim Chancellor Deborah F. Stanley said, "SUNY campuses comprise one of the world's most diverse learning opportunities, and welcome students from all walks of life, countries, and backgrounds. We are honored to have the Rockefeller Institute of Government house this Institute and facilitate its much-needed work to advance our state's longstanding commitment to supporting and welcoming immigrants and ensuring their success. I thank Governor Hochul and the Legislature — particularly Assembly Member Catalina Cruz — for filling a critical policy need through the creation of this Institute, and also extend my gratitude to our esteemed advisory board members for their service."

University at Albany Director of the Center for Women in Government & Civil Society Dr. Dina Refki said, "The Institute will occupy a unique niche in the immigrant integration landscape. It is designed to strengthen the preparation of students interested in pursuing integration work and enhance the training of the next generation of immigrant integration professionals. It will generate knowledge that seeks to accelerate immigrants' workforce development and improve Immigrant access to health and social services. The Institute will also inform New York's immigrant integration policy processes through research and data-driven policy analyses."

International Institute of Buffalo Executive Director Jennifer RizzoChoi said, "I am honored to serve as an advisory board member of the newly launched Institute for Immigrant Integration Research & Policy. New York has always excelled at welcoming immigrants and refugees into our state. At the International Institute of Buffalo, we have over 100 years of experience integrating immigrants and refugees into our region, helping to create the unique and diverse fabric our community enjoys today. We are immensely proud that Buffalo is one of the leaders in the state in accepting and integrating our new neighbors. With the launch of this statewide institute, I am excited to play a

Governor Kathy Hochul. Editorial credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com role in ensuring that New York becomes even more efficient in welcoming refugees and immigrants into our communities and workforce." Asian American Federation Executive Director Jo-Ann Yoo said, "As an immigrant and the first in my family to attend college in the United States, I am moved and honored to be invited to be a part of the advisory board of SUNY's Institute for Immigration Integration Research and Policy. This initiative will help ensure that immigrants have ample opportunities to hone their skills and contribute to making New York State a welcoming place for all newcomers to innovate. We only need to look to history to see how, despite exploitation, prejudice, and unjust policies that hindered their belonging and integration, immigrants continue to create and sustain economies in small towns and big cities across the nation. I am proud to be part of this endeavor that aims to build on this history and nurture new ideas and talented people to strengthen the social and economic fabric of New York State."l

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Adams Discusses Immigration with Sharpton/continued from page 1 lowing is a transcript of the interview.

Reverend Sharpton: Mayor Adams, first of all, thank you for joining us. Let me get right to the immigration challenge New York City is facing right now. You recently estimated more than 13,000 migrants have arrived in New York City since the spring but more than 9,500 of them are seeking housing in the city's shelter system and that number continues to grow every day. Put that in perspective for our viewers. What kind of strain is that placing on the city's resources?

Mayor Eric Adams: It's an amazing problem. When you look at the numbers, 10,300 are still in our shelter system. Over 13,600 were brought here to New York City, some wanting to go to different destinations, but they were duped into believing that they could only go to New York City, they were incentivized to do so. But when you look at it, it's more than shelter, Reverend Sharpton. It's all about education. You have 3,200 schoolaged children we are finding and incorporating into our school system. It's about healthcare. It's about making sure they have the basic needs that is required, that's food, shelter, clothing. When you look at already the problem we are facing coming out of COVID it was just an inhumane, uncooperative action on the part of, particularly, the governor of Texas.

Reverend Sharpton: Now, with that in mind, you announced this week the city is responding to the influx of migrants by building two humanitarian emergency response and relief centers, which are essentially tent cities designed to shelter migrants temporarily. On the one hand, your administration is responding to a desperate need, but on the other hand immigration advocates have many concerns as the facilities are legally adequate or whether a more permanent solution is needed, especially as we head into the winter. What's your response to these concerns? Mayor Adams: No one could have predicted over 13,000 refugees, asylum seekers, migrants coming to New York City. We will always fulfill our moral and legal obligation to house New Yorkers and those who come to this city. This is not a homeless issue, this is a migrant, refugee, asylum crisis that we are facing, and this is a humanitarian action that was created by human hands. And so, those who are evaluating this situation based on the traditional models that have been set in place over 40 years ago that those who seek housing in New York City must get that housing, we fulfill that all the time and we have done that with over 13,000 people who have come to New York. That is not the same issue and they need to look at it through the proper prism and not try to state that we're not meeting our obligations both legally and morally.

Reverend Sharpton: Since August, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has sent roughly 2,700 migrants to New York City, aboard more than 50 buses. In a recent interview for the Texas Tribune Festival, you said your team reached out to Governor Abbot's administration asking to coordinate with them in their busing efforts and they refused. Why is the Texas governor refusing to make even the slightest effort to make sure these transfers of human beings from one place to another are at least handled in a more orderly and humane manner?

Mayor Adams: A crisis really causes us to have cooperation and coordination and people make a comparison to my communication with the El Paso mayor in comparison to the governor of Texas. This is not a Democrat or Republican issue. When people came to America they were not trying to come to any particular state, they were trying to come to a place where we state dreams come alive, the American dream. We were able to speak with the El Paso mayor and stated, "Let's communicate. We're not asking to have migrants or asylum seekers to come here in large numbers but at least we should have some type of communication."

Editorial credit: Steve Sanchez Photos / Shutterstock.com

continued on page 14

Preventing Citizenship for Black Immigrants/continued from page 1 unmarried, even though citizenship automatically passed to the children of other citizen parents who came to the country under the same circumstances. Were it not for the Guyer Rule, Silva, 45, would have automatically gained citizenship at age 11, his age when his father became a naturalized citizen. Silva’s legal team – Asian Americans Advancing Justice (Advancing JusticeAtlanta), the National Immigration Project of the National Lawyers Guild and the Southern Poverty Law Center –filed a brief this week in the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, challenging this law that prevented Silva’s citizenship and resulted in his deportation to a country completely unfamiliar to him. “Throughout his battle in the immigration court system and now the federal court, Mr. Silva has shown unswerving commitment and inspiring resilience in the face of this sexist and racist law,” said Peter Isbister, senior lead attorney for the SPLC’s Immigrant Justice Project. “The Guyer Rule is yet another part of the U.S. immigration system that unfairly targets Black and Brown people.” Meanwhile, Silva’s entire family –including his children and grandchildren – resides in the U.S. But changing immigration law through the courts is a difficult process, even when a law like the Guyer Rule results in a grave injustice such as the one Silva is facing. To cope with the uncertainty of his immigration case, Silva maintains an attitude of optimism. But he admits his smile is a façade concealing his sadness. “From the beginning, it was rough,” he said. “I just put a smile on my face, but I don’t talk to too many people. This is really, really hard. But I’m alive. I breathe every day. It’s up to me how I’m going to tackle these obstacles, and I try to be happy.” It’s been a shocking experience for Silva. Before U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) initiated deportation proceedings against him, he believed he was a U.S. citizen because of his father’s citizenship. So, when Silva was deported, he was stunned. “I was scared, worried and nervous,” he said. “Nobody believed [deportation] would happen. Even I can’t get over it.” Before being deported, Silva had spent 30 months in ICE detention, most recently at Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, Georgia, the deadliest immigrant prison in the nation. He said that while some give up on their immigration claims, he decided to fight. He doesn’t want to give up. “I always have high hopes,” he said. “It will take time and it might be a long process, but I know there will be a good outcome for me – and for the other men in my situation.”

Betting on Congress The Guyer Rule prevented U.S.-citizen fathers, but not U.S.-citizen mothers, from passing their citizenship status to foreign-born, nonmarital children. The rule disproportionately restricted how nonwhite parents could secure citizenship for their children – and for decades was maintained for just that reason. In short, U.S.-citizen fathers were discriminated against by the unfair denial of U.S. citizenship for their children born “out of wedlock.” The Guyer Rule originates from an 1864 Maryland court decision, Guyer v. Smith, in which the court ruled that two sons born overseas of a white U.S.-citizen father and a Black mother from St. Barthélemy were “not born in lawful wedlock” and thus were not U.S. citizens. The Guyer Rule was subsequently incorporated into federal nationality laws, first through administrators’ policies and practices, and later by Congress through the Nationality Act of 1940 and the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952. Although Black immigrants were eligible for naturalization starting in 1870, historical and legislative records show that lawmakers nevertheless worked to limit the number of people of color who could become U.S. citizens. Administrators and legislators accomplished this goal in a variety of ways, including literacy tests, a racially discriminatory quota system and immigration preference categories that prioritized the “marital” family over other forms of familial arrangement, notably at a time when interracial marriage was illegal in most states. In treating marriage as a prerequisite continued on page 14

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Preventing Citizenship for Black Immigrants/continued from page 13 for fathers, but not mothers, to pass on their U.S. citizenship status to their foreign-born children, lawmakers were relying on the outdated stereotype that mothers have closer bonds with their nonmarital children than fathers. Silva, however, only met his mother when he was 13 years old. His father and grandmother took care of him his entire life – not his mother. Simply put, because his parents never married, the law stopped Silva from becoming a U.S. citizen. “[The Guyer Rule] is not fair,” Silva said. “I went to school in the U.S., grew up over there, made friends, family. But here I know no one. It’s weird, it’s hard, it’s rough.” Congress partially remedied the unfairness of the Guyer Rule by passing the Child Citizenship Act of 2000, or CCA, which repealed the Guyer Rule. However, the CCA did not apply to people over the age of 18 when it passed –people like Silva. Silva’s supporters and legal team hope that Congress will take swift action to make the CCA retroactive, which would allow him and other immigrants affected by the Guyer Rule to obtain citizenship. “The goal of a nation’s citizenship laws should be to keep families together, not tear them apart,” said Meredyth Yoon, litigation director for Advancing JusticeAtlanta. “As Congress implicitly recognized by passing the Child Citizenship Act of 2000, a parent’s marital status has nothing to do with the bond they have with their child. “Silva asks the court to rectify the harm done by the Guyer Rule by extending him full U.S. citizenship. By doing so, the court would take one small but crucial step toward undoing the inequities, including the systemic racism, that plague this nation’s immigration laws.”

‘I’m a fighter’ Silva is trying to find employment in the Dominican Republic as he hopes for his return to the U.S. “I’m a human being just like everybody else, and everybody deserves second chances,” he said. Silva truly misses his family. But, he said, “they belong in the U.S.” Because of that – being separated from his children and grandchildren – Silva feels “robbed.” “The ripping away of the families and lives of people who came to the U.S. as children simply because their parents were unmarried is an antiquated and immoral act of which all of us should be deeply ashamed,” said Bacardi Jackson, interim deputy legal director for the SPLC’s Children’s Rights Practice Group. “Such a cruel and unjust punishment for the crime of being born outside of European norms is all the more despicable for its uneven effect on Black and Brown families.” In the end, Silva knows he must persevere. As he tries to adapt to living in a country unknown to him, he leans on the support of members of his legal team, who reach out regularly to update him on his immigration case. “I’m taking it day by day,” he said. “I’m a fighter; I have to do what I have to do. … Everything is in God’s hands, and things happen for a reason.”l

Read more at www.theimmigrantsjournal.com Adams Discusses Immigration with Sharpton/continued from page 12 We did the same early with the governor of Texas. They committed to communicating with us, they did just the opposite. They compel people to get on the buses. They tag some of them. A 45-hour ride without proper food, water, restroom facilities, and medical care. Some arrived here with COVID. It was clearly a subterfuge that they used, I believe, Reverend Sharpton, to take attention away from what they have been doing over the last few months in this country, taking away the women's right to choose, taking away our protection by some of the gun laws that have come out of the Supreme Court decisions. We really need to focus on that this was just a political stunt and, as you indicated in the poll, I think the stunt backfired.

Reverend Sharpton: Now, I've got to go a little deeper, Mr. Mayor. You and I know each other over 30 years and you were one of the original members of National Action Network when we started. I've got to bring up a question of race. I'm bringing this up because not only are these Republican governors showing a callous disregard for these migrants and asylum seekers, most of whom are coming from Latin American countries, but they also seem to be specifically targeting cities with Black mayors such as Lori Lightfoot in Chicago, Muriel Bowser in Washington, DC, and of course you as mayor of New York. Even Martha's Vineyard, well known as the summer home for former President Barack Obama and many successful Blacks. What are your thoughts? Because I'm saying there's a racial element to this, and the president and others need to come in and help black mayors who are already dealing with challenges. It's not like you don't have sanctuary cities with white mayors. It seems like there's a racial element to this. I've been saying it and I'm going to keep saying it because I don't believe these are coincidences.

Mayor Adams: Well, Reverend Sharpton, we need to be clear on the facts. The facts are clear. Three black mayors, Chicago, Washington, and New York City, we were targeted. It's very clear. The governor of Texas clearly stated that he was targeting these areas. It was clear that Martha's Vineyard, a place where African Americans have been coming for years, including, as you stated, the former president, President Barack Obama. I believe it's a clear attempt to undermine our cities. We're already dealing with the overproliferation of guns that are coming from the southern border. We are coming out of COVID. New York was ground zero for the COVID crisis. We are experiencing historical crises already. When you look at the specific targeting out of all the states in America, we looked at the cities, cities where you had three Black mayors, where they specifically sent buses to. They passed through a lot of cities to get to New York, with a destination of getting to New Yorkl

HEALTH

15 Mayor Adams Launches Covid-19 Booster Campaign, Announces Additional Flexibility for NYC Businesses, Parents

As New York City Mayor Eric Adams received his own COVID-19 bivalent booster shot, he and New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan announced the launch of a citywide campaign to promote COVID-19 boosters this fall. With the recent rollout of bivalent booster shots by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the new campaign will encourage all eligible New Yorkers to get their booster shot for an added layer of protection for themselves and those around them. Mayor Adams and DOHMH Commissioner Vasan also, announced more flexibility for New York City’s businesses by encouraging private businesses to put in place their own vaccine policies after making the private sector vaccine mandate optional. And as New York City’s students head back to school, the city created more flexibility for parents and encouraged families to ensure their children have their primary and, if eligible, booster shots after making vaccines optional for students who participate in extracurricular activities, including, among other activities, New York City’s Public School Athletic League (PSAL). “I’m thrilled to roll up my sleeve and get boosted and encourage all eligible New Yorkers to do the same,” said Mayor Adams. “The new bivalent booster is here, providing better protection against variants we are seeing now and quite likely against variants in the future as well. We are launching a new campaign in the next week that encourages all eligible New Yorkers to get their booster shot for an added layer of protection for themselves and those around them. And with so many tools now more easily accessible to keep New Yorkers safe from COVID-19, the additional flexibility we are announcing for private employers, students, and parents puts the choice back into each of their hands. We urge all New Yorkers to make a plan to get vaccinated if they are eligible, and we are grateful to the millions of New Yorkers who have already stepped up to keep themselves and their community safe.” “As we reach this next important milestone in New York City’s recovery from the pandemic, I want to thank New Yorkers — businesses, individuals, and countless partners — who have done their part to protect themselves and their community by getting vaccinated,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic and Workforce Development Maria TorresSpringer. “As we enter this next phase of our recovery and provide more options and flexibility for businesses and their workforce, we would do well to remember that this collective spirit is what got us here and what will enable us to tackle future challenges facing our city.” “With updated boosters, we can head into the fall knowing we’re protected against whatever this season has in store,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Let’s roll up our sleeves and do our part to protect ourselves, our city, and our communities against COVID.” “Vaccination is our best defense against infectious disease in schools — from polio to the flu to COVID-19. We encourage everyone who is eligible to get their regular COVID-19 booster shot to keep our defense strong,” said New York City Department of Education Chancellor David C. Banks. “Additionally, we are proud of our work with DOHMH to increase vaccination amongst school-age children in parallel with the increased flexibility for extracurricular activities families will now have.” l

Mayor Adams receiving his booster shot from Commissioner Vasan. Photo courtesy: NYC.gov

The boosters are stronger now.

The latest COVID-19 boosters protect against the omicron variants. All New Yorkers 12 years and older should get a new bivalent COVID-19 booster today. To learn more, visit nyc.gov/vaccine昀nder or call 877-VAX-4NYC.

Welcoming America and New York State Launches First of Its Kind Civic Leadership Program for New Americans

New York, N.Y.: Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced the launch of the New York State Civic Leadership Program as part of Welcoming Week (September 9-18). The New York State Civic Leadership Program is a partnership between the New York State Office for New Americans and Welcoming America, a recognized national leader in immigrant inclusion. The Civic Leadership Program is a first of its kind state led program to strengthen the civic leadership of new Americans across New York State and connect them to local government, institutions, and their neighbors. This pilot program will offer leadership building and civics training workshop sessions to new Americans with a desire to make a positive impact in their communities. “New York is built on the hard work and determination of generations of immigrants, and we welcome all those who look to start a new life in our state,” Governor Hochul said. “The New York State Civic Leadership Program – the first of its kind – will help new Americans build strong connections with their communities, providing them with support to help them contribute to a thriving New York State and ushering in the next generation of local leaders.” Welcoming America Executive Director Rachel Perić said, “Welcoming America is proud to partner with the State of New York to support this innovative and historic investment in the capacity of New Yorkers from all walks of life to be able to serve and lead in their communities. We applaud Governor Hochul’s efforts to ensure that more New Yorkers – new and longtime – can participate in the civic fabric of the communities they call home, no matter where they come from.” Governor Hochul issued a proclamation recognizing September 9-18, 2022 as Welcoming Week in New York State. During Welcoming Week, organizations and communities bring together neighbors of all backgrounds to connect and affirm the importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity and belonging. Welcoming Week is spearheaded by Welcoming America, a not-for-profit with expertise in supporting local leaders in building strong civic engagement and inclusion practices for communities. Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, “In New York, we welcome people from all over the world with open arms because our state offers a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Since its inception, the Office for New Americans has helped immigrants succeed. The New York State Civic Leadership Program presents another tool we offer to immigrants as a way to feel comfortable with an understanding of how our government and institutions work, to have a voice, and to respond to the needs of our communities by knowing about the resources available. This offers a path for all new Americans to live in an integrated New York State we can call home.” Assemblymember Catalina Cruz said, “This new initiative by the Hochul Administration and launched by the Office of New Americans is a powerful tool to ensure that new and emerging immigrant communities are better integrated into the social, economic and political fabric of our nation. Building civic leadership skills in these communities is key to immigrant integration. The New York State Civil Leadership Program demonstrates how New York can lead the nation in building strong communities that understand and strengthen our nation’s strong democratic traditions and institutions. I thank Governor Hochul and Secretary of State Rodriguez for their ongoing work to ensure a prosperous future for all who call New York their home.” LifeWorks Immigrant Services Manager Joan Odess said, “LifeWorks Community Action is pleased to be participating in the pilot Civic Leadership Program in partnership with Welcoming America. We expect an enthusiastic reception of the Civic Leadership Program by immigrants who are informal leaders in our

area and who have, until now, never been given an opportunity to engage formally in training to strengthen the leadership qualities that already exist within them and further familiarize themselves with the institutions that affect their lives on a daily basis.” Chinese-American Planning Council Program Queens Special Needs Director Jacqueline Fan said, “Chinese-American Planning Council is thrilled to partner with the New York State Office for New Americans and Welcoming America in the Civic Leadership Program to strengthen new Americans’ civic leadership skills through our Queens Community Services location. We look forward to continuing our work of empowering Chinese immigrants, particularly for families with special needs, elevating their voices and encouraging their engagement in civic efforts in New York, especially for the residents of Queens, where half of the residents are immigrants and over half speak a language other than English.” Agri-Business Child Development Chief Executive Officer Maggie M. Evans said, “We are honored to provide educational opportunities, social, wellbeing, and health services to all ABCD families. Partnerships are an integral and vital component of ABCD’s success and strategic plans. During this Welcoming Week and to celebrate the launch of the Civic Leadership Program, it is our pleasure to recognize the importance of ABCD’s partnership with the NYS Office for New Americans and with Welcoming America. We are very thankful to Governor Hochul for this exciting opportunity.” The Civic Leadership Program will foster welcoming and inclusive communities by ensuring that immigrants and refugees are able to access local resources, are connected to opportunities to share their voice and participate meaningfully in their communities, and with their neighbors and institutions – this will all contribute to an environment where new Americans can thrive and belong. The New York State Office for New Americans has partnered with Welcoming America to develop a curriculum for the workshops that comprise the Civic Leadership Program. Welcoming America is providing ongoing technical assistance to three community-based organizations in New York State that will be utilizing this new civic leadership curriculum. Welcoming America’s development of this curriculum, which responds to the needs of New York State communities, will be an important resource for the field of immigrant inclusion not only in the state, but nationally. l Read more stories at www.theimmigrantsjournal.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.THEIMMIGRANTSJOURNAL.COM FOR MORE IMMIGRATION NEWS & UPDATES

The Importance of Estate Planning

BY JANET HOWARD

No one likes thinking about death, but sooner or later, we all need to make plans for the inevitable. Some people assume that their possessions will automatically transfer to their spouse or other family members if they die. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Estate planning offers some control over what happens to your assets in the event of your death, enabling you to ensure the right assets go to the right people.

What is Estate Planning? Estate planning encompasses a range of measures that individuals can take to ensure their assets are distributed appropriately in the event of their death or incapacitation. Writing a will that specifies who gets what after someone dies is an example of estate planning. However, while most people are familiar with the concept of leaving a will, estate planning can involve a wide range of other activities. Most estate planning is conducted with the advice and supervision of an attorney. There are also estate planning advisers who aren't lawyers but can advise clients on the financial side of estate planning. Examples of common estate planning practices include: •Deciding how assets should be preserved, managed, and distributed after the owner's death or incapacitation and which assets should go where. •Writing a will. •Setting up trusts to hold or manage assets on behalf of beneficiaries. •Making charitable donations and taking other measures to limit the estate's tax liability. •Naming beneficiaries and executors. •Making funeral arrangements. Why do you need a Lawyer to Assist with Estate Planning? Technically, you don't have to have a lawyer to assist you with estate planning. However, unless you happen to have the qualifications yourself, working with a lawyer is strongly recommended. Estate planning can be simple or complex, depending on the estate in question, but it is always a serious undertaking. If there are any problems with estate plans, they often won't become apparent until they are executed after the estate owner's death. While many of the strategies and instruments available for estate planning are the same across the US, each state has its own rules regarding who can and can't serve as a personal representative. In cases where the beneficiaries of an estate reside or the nominated personal representative of the deceased are in different states, things can become more complicated. To ensure that everything proceeds smoothly, you should hire an experienced lawyer with estate planning experience. Estate planning lawyers will know the relevant state laws inside and out. Working with an attorney to formulate a plan for your assets after your death will give you and your beneficiaries peace of mind that everything is in place and your plans are indisputable. They will work with you to ensure all the necessary documentation is available, utilize the most suitable financial instruments to achieve your objectives, and ensure the wording and procedures you use will stand up in court. But perhaps the most compelling reason to make your plans under the supervision of a lawyer is that you will minimize unnecessary expenditures. If there are any issues with your estate plan or the

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Importance of Estate Planning/ continued from page 18 documents you submit, your beneficiaries could end up drowning in legal fees.

Wills and Estate Planning A will is a legal document that specifies how you want your assets to be distributed after you pass on. If you die without a will in place, your assets will most likely be distributed according to local state laws or left in the hands of a judge. As well as indicating how you want to distribute your assets, a will can also specify your wishes regarding the care of minor children and other similar issues. It is a common misconception that only those with significant assets need to bother with a will. Even if you have minimal assets to distribute after your death, there are many reasons why leaving a will is a good idea. For example, you can ensure that any assets you leave behind are distributed to the right people and, just as importantly, kept out of the hands of those you don't wish to pass them on to. Wills are also crucial for settling issues regarding childcare. Wills are a core component of any estate planning strategy, but not all wills are created equal. Some types of will, such as oral wills expressed in front of witnesses, aren't widely recognized by US courts. The most effective kind of will is called a testamentary will. Testamentary wills are the type that most people are familiar with; the testator puts their wishes in writing, and witnesses sign the document. If you produce a testamentary will under the supervision of an attorney, it will be very difficult for anyone to challenge it in court after you die successfully. Wills are commonly used alongside trusts to distribute assets to beneficiaries. By utilizing both mechanisms, you can set conditions for the distribution of your assets while minimizing your beneficiaries' tax liabilities. Each trust usually only holds specific assets, such as a piece of property. They are frequently used to hold or manage assets on behalf of underage beneficiaries. Once the recipient is able to manage the assets themselves, they can take possession of the trust and the associated assets. How Estate Planning Can Provide for Those with Special Needs Estate planning is always important, but it takes on an even greater significance when a child with special needs is involved. Estate planning isn't just about dividing financial assets; it's also an opportunity for parents to ensure their children receive the appropriate type of care when they're gone. If the child is likely to receive government benefits, their parents can establish a "special needs trust" for them as part of their estate planning. These trusts need to be drafted carefully to ensure they don't affect the child's eligibility for government benefits. The idea is that while the government benefits cover the recipient's basic needs, the trust provides funds for other trips and activities. What Happens When Someone Dies Without a Will or Estate Planning? If someone dies without a will, they are said to have died "intestate." This can create numerous problems for the deceased's heirs. Without a will to specify how an estate should be divided, the estate goes into probate. Probate is a legal process in which a probate court determines who inherits what according to state law. The probate process can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to resolve, depending on the complexity of the estate. In most cases, intestate succession laws are used to determine who inherits an estate in probate. These laws differ from state to state, but most states will split the estate between the deceased's spouse and children if there are any. If the deceased is single and has no children, the state will determine which relatives should inherit their assets. In most states, only certain people can inherit assets under intestate laws. These are usually limited to spouses and registered domestic partners and blood relatives. Estate planning is vital for anyone who wants some degree of control over the distribution of their assets after they die. Dying intestate can create significant stress and tension among surviving heirs and spouses. You should always work with an estate planning lawyer to ensure that estate planning is thorough and robust.l

Ways in Which a Toxic Relationship Could Kill You

BY MARY CAMPBELL

Relationships are good. Humans need to be in relationships. You stay connected when you are in a relationship. But what if the relationship is toxic? Is it better to be in a toxic relationship or not to be in a relationship at all? But first, are you in a toxic relationship? Consider, for instance, whether you live in mortal fear of your partner. Do you walk on eggshells whenever you're with your partner? Do you fear speaking your mind as this might lead to a putdown or a potentially violent temper flare-up? A toxic relationship is characterized by a repetitive, unhealthy pattern that is destructive to one or both partners. If your well-being is threatened physically, emotionally, or psychologically, then you are in a toxic relationship. A toxic person could be excessively jealous, insecure, domineering, or manipulative. The toxic behavior may include disrespect, lying, belittling, and or outright name-calling. Toxic relationships are found in all spheres of life. A toxic relationship can involve a family member, a friend, a work colleague, or a boss. Sometimes, toxic relationships are caused by both parties, but they can also be caused by one person. Some people are overly negative and argumentative, correcting others constantly. They just sap your energy. Apart from making you unhappy, toxic relationships severely affect your health. A toxic relationship could lead to: •Heart problems Researchers affiliated with the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health of the University College London, London, surveyed relationship quality among 9,000 men and women in the British Civil Service. In results published in 2007, participants who reported difficult relationships were 34 percent more likely to develop heart problems. And a 2016 University of Michigan study confirmed that adverse relationships affect a couple's cardiovascular system. The study recorded a rise in blood pressure when couples in stressful relationships were interacting with each other. This can lead to long-term elevated blood pressure. •Chronic stress A toxic relationship wears you down and affects your physical and mental health. Stress weakens your immune system, affecting virtually every aspect of your health. Negative social interactions, whether with family, friends, or neighbors, are a source of stress, which can cause inflammation in your body. A study published in March 2021 concluded that women who experienced high levels of social strain were at greater risk of suffering a heart attack or dying of cardiovascular disease than those who did not. The participants were followed up for nearly 15 years. The study was published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Constant strain puts your body in permanent "flight or fight" mode. This eventually raises inflammation levels in the body, with serious health consequences. A 2014 report in the Psychological Bulletin reviewed a study in which couples were asked to participate in supportive as well as hostile marital interactions. The highest inflammation was reported in couples with the highest levels of hostility. •Depression A study by researchers associated with the University of California, Los Angeles, whose findings were reported in Psychological Bulletin, concluded that the risk for depression is greatest when people suffer social rejection. The study reviewed 7,300 adults in a community-dwelling and found that people's risk for depression was highest when