Workers World Today - Issue 3 by IQ INC.

INSIDE

June 20-July 4, 2019 What Kinds of Property Deeds Are There?... 4-page pullout

Relationships: How to Stop Snooping... 17

How Head Injuries Hurt the Brain... 19

Issue #3

Tenant Power: Senate Majority Passes Strongest Tenant Protections In State

BY WWT STAFF

lbany, NY: The Senate Democratic Majority [June 14] passed the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019, the strongest affordable housing and tenant protections legisla-

tion in state history. This legislation, a 2-way agreement with the State Assembly Majority, was drafted following multiple legislative hearings throughout the state and discussions with advocates, tenants, and stakeholders. This legislation will make these new pro-ten-

ant regulations permanent, repeal vacancy deregulation, reform rent increases for major capital improvements, create transformational protections for all tenants throughout the state, and empower qualified communities outside of New York City to opt into rent stabilization. “We made a commitment that the new Senate Democratic Majority would help pass the strongest tenant protections in history,” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said. “The legislation we passed today achieves that commitment and will help millions of New Yorkers throughout our state. I thank my partner in legislative leadership, Speaker Carl Heastie and the Chair of the Senate’s Housing, Construction and Community Development Committee, Senator Brian continued on page 4

Hot Topics and News You Should Know About

Driver’s License for All Immigrants Granted ... 8

Politics, Sports & Fatherhood in the BLM Movement ... 13

DRC Battling Second Biggest Ebola Outbreak in History ... 6

Labor-Related News - Nationally & Locally

Remembering Civil Rights Icon, Leah Chase ... 5

LaborPress Apprenticeship Awards... 10

City Task Force to Take a Fresh Look at Feared Foreclosure Program BY CLAUDIA IRIZARRY APONTE, THE CITY

ollowing lawsuits from former property owners and backlash from elected officials o Thursday, the city Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) on Thursday said that is has put together a task force to modernize its controversial Third Party Transfer program. The announcement comes ahead of a City Council hearing about Third Party Transfer, under which HPD and the city’s tax collectors hand apartment buildings’ deeds to nonprofit caretakers in lieu of taking possession for unpaid taxes or water and sewer bills. “Our working group is going to look at the program overall, we’re going to look at it with fresh eyes and continued on page 8

Domestic Violence Victim Reaches the Steps of the U.S. Supreme Court BY MARILYN SILVERMAN, SPECIAL TO WWT

T Call Center Job Act Passed... 8

Help for Uber and Lyft Drivers..9

NYSNA NYC Nurses Speak Out!...10

he bullet-ridden bodies of three little girls— 7-year-old Leslie, 9-year-old Katheryne and 10-year-old Rebecca—lay untouched in a van. The owner of the van? Their father. Their murderer? Their father. This tragedy is the subject of a documentary, Home Truth, that had a world premiere at

Gonzalez

continued on page 15

BE REAL ABOUT STUDENT LOANS. See special insert for information.

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June 20-July 4, 2019

There is an immeasurable distance between late and too late. Always render more and better service than is expected of you, no matter what your task may be. Always do your best. Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.

— Og Mandino

Contents In Solidarity Construction Unions Must Release Their Diversity Data..............................................................4 Civil RIghts Remembering Leah Chase...................................................6 Workers’ Safety OSHA Tand Its Fatal Four ConstructionAccidents.........................................................7

Politics: Is the Trump/Pence Regime Fascist.... 12 Unions In Action:......... 10

Driver’s License for Undocumented Immigrants........14

Workers’ Matters Call Center Job Act Passes................................................8

We thank our champion Senator Luis Sepulveda for sponsoring this legislation, Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly sponsor Marcos Crespo for his unwavering support, and the State Senate and Assembly for standing with New York State's 265,000 undocumented immigrants.

OSHA and Its Fatal Four Construction Accidents .......7

Workers’ Matters How to Improve Working Conditions for Uber and Lyft Drivers....................................................................12 Love, Health & Travel How to Stop Snooping.........................................................15 Workers’ Rights How Head Injuries Hurt the Brain....................................19

The Good Shop Steward: Avoiding the Pitfalls.........4

COLUMNS

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Love, Health & Travel Eating for Healthy Skin.......................................................17

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Tanya McDowell is an example of how “stealing an education” is a crime that seems to solely affect people of color. Open Enrollment in NYC Public Schools ............. 11

Love, Health & Travel Your Job May Be Killing You.................................... 18

Books & Conversations Book Looks at the Shameful Epoch in U.S. History: Slavery in the Civil War South ............................ 16

Workers at Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) voted by 82% to unionize with Local 2110, the Technical, Office and Professional Workers Union of the UAW.BAM workers had faced pushback from the arts center since launching their organizing campaign, with management threatening that joining a union would result in changes that were mostly negative, such as the loss of their pensions.

June 20-July 4, 2019

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In Solidarity Albany Deserves the Facts: New York’s Construction Unions Must Release Their Diversity Data

TEAM Publisher Workers’ World Today, Inc Editor-In-Chief Pearl Phillip Online Editor Elias Gebrehiwot

BY REVERENDS REGGIE BACHUS, CLINTON MILLER AND KAHLI MOOTOO

D Supports Workers’ World Today

ecently, I was in Albany fighting and seeking support of A1261/S1947, legislation that will create a clear definition of public work and level the playing field for New York’s contractors. District Council 9 Painters and Allied Trades Union (DC9), the union for painters, prides itself on being a strong advocate for workers’ rights and safety. We are excited about this new publication, Workers’ World Today, which covers the issues of relevance and concern for all workers. We are encouraged that all workers: blue and white collar will have a voice and platform. Congratulations on your inaugural issue. We wish much success to the leaders and team of Workers’ World Today and pledge our support.p Davon Lomax Political Director, DC9

espite union leaders claiming they are “religious about diversity,” the 32 New York construction unions have kept us in the dark about their diversity data. While New York’s construction unions have made considerable strides to implement diversity initiatives across many of the building trades, without data there is no way of verifying that these programs are effective and producing an equitable distribution of jobs and opportunities. Without that data, we do not know if the degree to which proposed public works legislation (S.1947/A.1261) will harm communities of color. It is not “anti-union” to demand equity in New York’s construction industry. We know that good union jobs have the potential to provide considerable opportunities and benefits to communities of color. However, despite our continued demands, the city’s 32 construction unions have refused to release comprehensive workforce data that shows the racial diversity of full-time workers, apprentices, and journeymen. Furthermore, why would we want black and brown union workers to go back to open shop, we want to ensure that black and brown workers currently in the union transition to journeymen and have equitable access to the higher paying trades. As they move up, more black and brown open

Bachus

Mootoo

Clinton

We are not anti-union. We are pro-worker; we are pro-diversity; we are pro-equity. We want our communities to have equal access to the bountiful opportunities offered by this state. shop worker can move in to the newly opened positions. To that end, we have taken the proactive step of accepting an invitation to tour union diversity initiatives across the city. However, despite the increasing efforts to maximize the diversity of apprenticeship programs, we have no way to confirm that those programs are translating into long-term careers for workers of color. Here is what we do know: three-fourths of open-shop workers are people of color; these workers have built careers on open shop sites; and these workers are the first workers who will be shut out of jobs and opportunities if the State Legislature passes S.1947/A.1261. On the 400th anniversary of slavery, legislative discrimination, and economic disadvantage in the United States, the passage of public works legislation without a full release of diversity data from New York’s construction unions could amount to a continuation of that legacy. With a recent report from Prosperity Now and the Institute for Policy Studies that found black median wealth will be at zero by 2053, it is more critical than ever that workers of color find opportunities in every indus-

try. It is precisely our faith that has been central to our understanding of this issue. The bounty of this land should be shared with the many, not horded by the few. Our religion teaches us, “Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” Matthew 7:20 NKJV. We demand to see the fruits of New York’s construction trades unions so we can confirm that they practice what they preach. If they do not meet the standards of New York’s increasingly diverse construction industry, legislators cannot in good conscience pass public works legislation that would take jobs away from communities of color that need the jobs the most. More importantly, without that data, state legislators cannot in good conscience consider a piece of legislation that could irreparably harm communities of color. Legislators and their constituents simply do not have enough information to understand its full economic impact. As faith leaders in communities of color, we understand the critical importance of construction jobs. Providing a stable path to the middle class, work in the industry is crucial to bringing capital to margin-

Contributing Writers Marilyn Silverman Charles Tabasso Victoria Falk Erin Telesford Jennine Estes, MFT Travis Morales Jamileliah Francis Janet Howard Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Telephone 1-866-435-3286 Email info@workersworldtoday.com Visit us at www.workersworldtoday.com

alized communities. New York’s building boom will continue for the foreseeable future. Communities of color deserve to have an equitable share of this rapidly growing economic sector. Communities of color, however, will not be pushed out of another discussion about critical policy initiatives. Historically shut out of the legislative process, workers of color deserve a seat at the table in negotiations over public works legislation. We are not anti-union. We are pro-worker; we are pro-diversity; we are pro-equity. We want our communities to have equal access to the bountiful opportunities offered by this state. We want our communities to have equal access to the job security, health care, and economic prospects offered by construction unions. We will only know if public works legislation will help or hurt workers of color after all 32 of New York’s construction and trade unions release this critical data.p

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June 20-July 4, 2019

The Good Steward

Avoiding the Pitfalls tewards are the heart and soul of New York State Nurses Assocation (NYSNA)-style rank-and-file unionism. Stewards represent the “NYSNA in Action” as the first line of defense against employer abuses-acting as organizer, counselor, peacemaker, and troublemaker. And that’s a tough job. There are a lot of potential pitfalls facing NYSNA stewards, too. These are not always possible to avoid, but listing some of the most important ones should help us to be on guard as we represent NYSNA members on the job.

Failure to Organize: Stewards are critical to organizing the members. We need to be thinking about how each grievance can be used to increase participation, build the union, and create new leaders (even future stewards). Promising Remedies Too Quickly: Do not pass judgment on a grievance until a thorough investigation has been completed. Wait to make a decision until after you’ve talked with the grievant and witnesses, consulted the contract, and examined your company’s rules and past practices. Failure to Represent Fairly: Not giving an aggrieved member fair treatment makes the union vulnerable to a lawsuit

for breach of its fair representation duty. Besides, this undermines the whole purpose of the union and the very idea of solidarity. Making Backroom Deals: Never secretly trade grievances with management. Every member is always entitled to a fair hearing. Meeting Alone with Management: Being alone with management discussing a grievance arouses suspicion among members, allows bosses to change their stories, and denies the grievant an opportunity to participate in a vital union activity (to say nothing of undermining the spirit of rank-and-file unionism). Failure to Adhere to Deadlines: Adhere to the grievance schedule stated in the contract. If an extension is needed, get the employer’s permission in writing. Failure to Get Settlement in Writing: Putting grievance set-

Tenant Power: Senate Passes Strongest Tenant Proetctions continued from page 1

tlements in writing helps to clarify the issues and keep the agreement alive. It also serves as a record for dealing with similar problems in the future — and as a way of reviewing issues for contract bargaining. Failure to Publicize Victories: Publicizing every victory helps to build a local union and boosts all members’ morale. Failure to Speak with New Employees: The union’s best chance for finding and keeping new members is one-on-one contact with a steward. Besides giving new workers information, this helps build personal relationships and includes new workers in the union from the outset. Remembering these tips should help make the job easier and help to avoid some of the pitfalls that can be problems for any steward.p Source: www.nysna.org

Cover photo and this photo, courtesy Chhaya CDC

Kavanagh for his leadership on this issue. I also want to recognize and thank Senator Zellnor Myrie and the members of the Senate Democratic working group which helped draft and advance this historic affordable housing legislation.” "We are in a state of emergency with our current housing crisis in New York City, where hardworking tenants are living beyond their financial capacity, to maintain a roof over their head, due to the lack of affordable housing," said Assemblywoman Richardson. "Central Brooklyn has the second highest rate of evictions throughout the State of New York, and this package will help protect our struggling communities and ensure families are not forced out of their homes." "The New York State Legislature has fought for years to bring power back into the hands of the people, when it comes to housing. The historic measures we passed were made possible due to the ongoing efforts of families, residents, tenant advocacy groups and community leaders who fought alongside a united Democratic Legislature," added Assemblywoman Richardson. "Our hopes for this housing package to change the lives of everyday New Yorkers will become reality, once the Governor signs these reforms into law." Chhaya Community Development Corporation applauds the New York State legislature for strengthening tenant protections for the first time in decades with their rent law renewal package! This historic legislation brings us another step closer to addressing the affordable housing crisis, and creating a New York City that can be home to all. People power took on one of the most powerful big money lobby groups in the state, and won. While we have a ways to go, we have laid the groundwork to end tenant harassment, illegal evictions, unjust charges, and removal of rent-stabilized apartments from the housing market. Chhaya is proud to have been part of this movement with our

partners and the amazing group of tenants who inspire us with their unrelenting resolve and commitment. We remain steadfast in our mission to building the power of South Asian and IndoCaribbean tenants to ensure fair, just, and affordable housing in our communities. We urge the Governor to sign this landmark legislation, and commend our local government officials for their support through the Stabilizing NYC initiative, which is paramount to the future of housing justice in New York City. How Will the Legislative Housing Package Impact You? Extends the rent regulation Laws and makes them permanent: •Makes the rent regulation system permanent, so they will not sunset at any time in the future without an act of the Legislature to repeal or terminate them. •Rent regulation laws have been scheduled to expire every four to eight years for decades. •Repeals High Rent Vacancy Deregulation and High Income Deregulation: •Repeals the provisions that allow the removal of units from rent stabilization when the rent crosses a statutory high-rent threshold and the unit becomes vacant or the tenant's income is $200,000 or higher in the preceding two years. •Previous provisions led to the deregulation of more than 300,000 units since they were first passed in 1994.p

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June 20-July 4, 2019

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Civil Rights

Remembering Leah Chase: Queen of Creole Cuisine nown as the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” Leah Chase has fed Quincy Jones, Jesse Jackson, Duke Ellington, Thurgood Marshall, James Baldwin, Ray Charles, Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama and countless others as Executive Chef of Dooky Chase’s Restaurant — one of the best-known and most culturally significant restaurants in New Orleans. Chase has more recently served as the inspiration for Princess Tiana in Disney's Princess and the Frog. Born on January 6, 1923 in New Orleans, Chase was one of 14 children. She was raised in the small town of Madisonville, LA. There were no high schools for black children, so after sixth grade, Chase moved to New Orleans to live with an aunt. After completing high school, Chase had a colorful work history including managing two amateur boxers and becoming the first woman to mark the racehorse board for a local bookie. Her favorite job, though, was waiting tables in the French Quarter. It was here that she developed her

Chase with President Obama

love for food and feeding others. In 1946, she married local musician Edgar “Dooky” Chase Jr., whose father had opened a street corner stand selling lottery tickets and his wife’s homemade po’boy sandwiches. Eventually, Leah and Edgar Dooky Jr. took over the business, which by then had become a sit-down restaurant and a favorite local gathering place. In a town deeply divided by segregation, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant was one of the only public places in New Orleans where mixed race groups could meet to discuss strategy for the local Civil Rights Movement. Although such gatherings were illegal

through most of the 1960s, Dooky Chase’s was so popular; it would have caused a public uproar if local law enforcement had interrupted the meetings. Black voter registration campaign organizers, the NAACP, backdoor political meetings and countless others often found a home at Dooky Chase’s, and Chase cooked for them all. Chase was also a patron of black art and her collection — displayed on the walls of her restaurant — was at one time considered New Orleans’ best collection of African American art. She served on the board of the New Orleans Museum of Fine Arts and has even testified before Congress to lobby for greater funding for the Na-

tional Endowment for the Arts. She has participated in countless political campaigns and has used her culinary talents and celebrity to raise money for a myriad of charities and services. Her cookbooks, including The Dooky Chase Cookbook, And Still I Cook, and Leah Chase: Listen, I Say Like This, are popular and have received great praise among her most famous colleagues. Chase has received many awards, including multiple awards from the NAACP, the New Orleans Times-Picayune 1997 Loving Cup Award, the Weiss Award from the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and the Outstanding Woman Award from the National Council of Negro Women. Chase was inducted into the James Beard Foundation's Who's Who of Food & Beverage in America in 2010. She was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the Southern Foodways Alliance in 2000. Chase received honorary degrees from Tulane University, Dillard University, Our Lady of Holy Cross College, Madonna College, Loyola University New Orleans, and

Johnson & Wales University. She is also the recipient of the Francis Anthony Drexel Medal, the highest award presented to an individual by Xavier University of Louisiana. The Southern Food and Beverage Museum in New Orleans, named a permanent gallery in Chase's honor in 2009. She also served on many boards, including the Arts Council of New Orleans, the New Orleans Museum of Art, and the Urban League. She is member of the Women of The Storm and the International Women’s Forum. She had four children, sixteen grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren. Chase who died on June 1 at age 96, got an authentic New Orleans sendoff: warm reminiscences and mourning mixed with a Mardi Gras-style celebration of her life. Fellow chefs, musicians, family and friends were among hundreds who filed through a New Orleans church to pay last respects to Leah Chase. Her legacy lives on and she will be remembered. May she rest in peace.p Source: www.dookychaserestaurant.com

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June 20-July 4, 2019

World News

New Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo is 'Truly Frightening', Says Wellcome Trust Director VIA BBC.COM - AFRICA

early 1,400 people have died in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR). Dr Jeremy Farrar, the director of the Wellcome Trust, said the epidemic was the worst since that of 2013-16 and has showed "no sign of stopping". Two people have also died in neighboring Uganda, the first cases of Ebola reported in the country. A five-year-old boy infected with the virus died on Tuesday and his 50-year-old grandmother died a day later, the Ugandan Health Ministry said. The Ugandan government has reported at least six other suspected cases of the virus. In a statement, Dr Farrar said the spread was "tragic but unfortunately not surprising". He warned that more cases were expected, and a "full" national and international response

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is already the second deadliest in history. Photos: bbc.com

would be needed to protect lives. "The DRC should not have to face this alone," he said. What's the situation so far? Since the first case of Ebola in DR Congo last August, nearly 1,400 people have died— around 70% of all those infected. The outbreak is the secondlargest in the history of the disease, with a significant spike in

new cases in recent weeks. Only once before has an outbreak continued to grow more than eight months after it began — that was the epidemic in West Africa between 20132016, which killed 11,310 people. Efforts to contain the spread have been hindered by militia group violence and by suspicion towards foreign medical assistance. Nearly 200 health facilities have been attacked in DR

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Congo this year, forcing health workers to suspend or delay vaccinations and treatments. In February, medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) put its activities on hold in Butembo and Katwa — two eastern cities in the outbreak's epicentre. Officials said his grandmother and younger brother also had the disease. The boy is said to have traveled across the border with his family from

DR Congo on Sunday. He was then taken to a Ugandan hospital after exhibiting symptoms, including vomiting blood, officials said. Seven other cases have been confirmed in the country, and Uganda's government said 50 people were suspected to have come into contact with those infected. This ourbreak of Ebola in the DRC is said to be the second-biggest in history.6 p

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Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Safety

OSHA and Its Fatal Four Construction Accidents BY JANET HOWARD

s per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 4,836 workers were killed at work in its fiscal year between October 1, 2015 and September 30, 2016. Of those fatalities, 21.4 percent of them occurred in the construction industry. That's 937 construction industry deaths, or more than 13 every day. There were four leading causes of construction industry fatalities. Those were falls, being struck by falling objects, electrocution and being pinned between two objects. These "fatal four" types of fatalities accounted for 62.4 percent of all construction industry deaths in the subject fiscal year. Falls By an overwhelming margin, falls were the leading cause of construction accident deaths for the period examined. There were 364 deaths from falls that consisted of 38.8 percent of the

937 construction industry deaths. Falls occur from ladders, scaffolds, roofs, floor holes, slips and trips. OSHA reports that fall protection like safety harnesses, nets and guardrails might save the lives of nearly 400 construction workers annually. Struck by an Object Construction workers being struck by objects and killed occurred 90 times and accounted for 9.6 percent of all construction site fatalities. These accidents usually occur when a worker is hit from above by a falling object like materials, machinery or tools. Depending on the facts surrounding the accident, a motor vehicle fatality might also be classified as being struck by an object. Electrocution Exposure to electricity on a job site continues to be a statistically significant cause of death for construction workers. Working with or around live

wires always presents a risk to construction workers. It's not only electricians who get electrocuted on job sites. Laborers, carpenters, plumbers and roofers also die from electrocution. A lack of fundamental knowledge of electricity contributes to these deaths. A total of 67 construction workers died by electrocution during the period at issue. They accounted for 8.6 percent of all construction industry deaths. Caught in Between Objects OSHA categorizes what are known as "caught in between" accidents as workers killed when they're pinned or compressed by equipment or objects, materials or collapsing structures. There were 67 construction accident fatalities

from workers being caught in between objects. They accounted for 7.2 percent of the fiscal year's construction accident fatalities. Compensation for Construction Accident Fatalities The federal government established OSHA for purposes of promulgating workplace standards and regulations that help prevent "fatal four" accidents. Each state also has its own workers' compensation laws that the families of construction workers who died on the job can rely on, but there are limitations on such benefits. The general rule is that workers' compensation benefits are the sole and exclusive remedy for a construction site death, but there are exceptions to that rule

that might operate to provide additional and increased compensation under state wrongful death laws. In any death resulting from a construction accident, OSHA standards and regulations were likely violated. A respected and experienced personal injury attorney will listen carefully to you about the facts surrounding your family member's construction accident death. Upon being retained to represent your loved one's estate and family, a professional investigation will be conducted that will identify all possible parties who might be responsible for your family member's death. You'll then be thoroughly advised of your legal options. Beware of attorneys who might ask you for a retainer fee. Reputable personal injury and workers' compensation lawyers will advance the costs of bringing a claim or lawsuit, and they won't ask for payment of those costs or any legal fees until such time as there is a settlement or verdict. Call 855-768-8845 for a FREE consultation.p

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June 20-July 4, 2019

Department of Finance. Torres also flags as problematic a clause in city law that leads that requires city officials to examine unpaid debts all the properties within the same block when one property is in arrears. Commissioner Carroll defended the provision. “We treat all property owners in a block fairly,” she said. “We’re not targeting neighborhoods specifically.”

Call Center Jobs Act Passes!

Workers’ Matters Foreclosure Program/ continued from page 1 anything is on the table,” recently appointed HPD Commissioner Louise Carroll told THE CITY. Carroll is teaming up with the program’s most vocal critic in the Council, Robert Cornegy Jr. (D-Brooklyn), to lead a group of nonprofits and housing experts to review the program, which critics say unfairly targets shareholders in low-income co-ops and communities of color. Cornegy, who chairs the City Council’s Housing and Buildings Committee, had called for a probe into the practice. “The Third Party Transfer program in and of itself, and in its intention, was a good program that stabilized for people who lived in apartments, give them good-quality, belowmarket rents and stabilized their quality of life,” he told THE CITY last month. He declined to comment Thursday on the formation of the task force he will co-chair. The new group includes several nonprofit developers that work with HPD and the Department of Finance to take over buildings foreclosed through Third Party Transfer, as well as Neighborhood Restore, which serves as an intermediary owner. It does not, however, include any co-op shareholders or their advocacy organizations. The HDFC Coalition, a membership group of cooperatives, learned of the task force from THE CITY’s article on the task force, as first posted Thursday afternoon. “This last-minute creation of a task force of the city’s TPT foreclosure program is a very lame attempt at damage control,” said the coalition’s Glory Anne Hussey Kerstein. “The HDFC Coalition and its Anti-foreclosure Committee along with the Brooklyn HDFC

Coalition has been petitioning the city and HPD for two years to create a working group … to scrutinize and reform these processes that operate in the dark.” On Friday, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams released a statement on the task force, in which he said he seeks to have residents and their advocates participate. “Without the voices of vulnerable homeowners, we will see this cycle of dispossession and anger continue unabated,” he said. Asked about the absence of resident representation, Carroll responded, “We hear that. We’re open to expanding the group.” Council Raises Concerns Preparing to chair Monday’s hearing of the City Council’s Committee on Investigations and Oversight, Councilmember Ritchie Torres (D-Bronx) compiled statistics he says suggest discrimination in the city agencies’ foreclosure actions. A Council analysis shows that half of the 420 properties initially notified they were subject to the latest round of Third Party Transfer were concentrated in just 11 neighborhoods, mostly in Central Brooklyn and the South Bronx. Of those, 118 were residentrun cooperatives, known as Housing Development Fund Corporations or HDFCs. Crown Heights North had

32, more than any area of the city. “It is clear to us that HPD is targeting properties disproportionately,” Torres told THE CITY. “It’s targeting Brooklyn and The Bronx, it’s targeting black and brown neighborhoods, and it’s targeting HDFCs.” Brooklyn had 192 properties on the list, while The Bronx had 132. Commissioner Carroll noted that of the 420 properties that were notified, only 62 ended up being transferred. Others paid back taxes they owed or had their local City Council member exercise their power to remove properties from the list. During Monday’s hearing, where Carroll and other HPD officials will testify, Torres says his committee will examine the purpose of Third Party Transfer, the criteria used to decide which properties are subject to city takeover, the quality of city notification to shareholders and other property owners, and the period during which owners may remove their properties from the takeover list by paying back their debts. Numerous former shareholders assert that they and their neighbors did not receive advance notice that their buildings were entering Third Party Transfer. Some say they believed that they were in the clear because they had worked out payment plans with the

Allegations Due Process Denied Torres says that regardless, the city’s actions leave strapped property owners at sea. “It could be that HPD did follow the rules, but the rules are inconsistent,” Councilmember Torres said. “There is a lack of due process in the current version of the program.” This is the main argument in a class-action lawsuit filed in March by several owners who lost their buildings or shares, who allege the city violated their constitutional right to property. “The city targeted working families who invested in their buildings and participated in the turnaround of their communities with a cavalier attitude that they are not deserving of their properties,” attorney Yolande Nicholson told THE CITY. “It’s the height of paternalism.” “That’s one of the responsibilities as a homeowner: you have to be able to keep pace, unfortunately,” Anne-Marie Hendrickson, HPD’s Deputy Commissioner for Asset and Property Management, told THE CITY. “You have to be a partner with us.”p

This story was originally published on [June 14, 2019] by THE CITY.”

fter years of hard work, the New York Call Center Jobs Act, sponsored by Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal, has passed in the New York Assembly by a count of 93-19, and will head to the Governor to be signed! CWA members spent months of campaigning to help proworker Democrats take over the State Senate last year and months more of lobbying, calling, and writing postcards to legislators, rallying, and holding press conferences to finally get the legislation over the finish line. The bill contains strong protections for call center jobs in New York. It ends tax breaks for companies that ship at least 30% of their workforce out of state and requires state agencies to ensure that all businessrelated call center work is performed by companies located in New York.p

Summer of #NoMoreOffshoring!

WA members are launching "The Summer of #NoMoreOffshoring," a program to fight back against job instability, corporate tax loopholes, and the trade deals that harm working people. CWA members' efforts will focus on the recently introduced U.S. Call Center Worker and Consumer Protection Act (H.R. 3219 and S.1792) to protect call center jobs, the No Tax Breaks for Outsourcing (H.R.1711 and S.780) legislation, and how we can take action to fix the new version of NAFTA, the USMCA. All of these critical fights will be happening throughout the summer! p

June 20-July 4, 2019

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Workers’ Matters

How to Improve the Working Conditions of Uber and Lyft Drivers nation before accepting trip •Show complete fare breakdown with Uber or Lyft’s take on passenger receipt

BY HOWIE HAWKINS

rivers from Uber, Lyft, and other ride-sharing companies went on a 24-hour strike recently to protest their super-exploitation. Most of these drivers make less than minimum wage for the hours they work. By treating their drivers as independent contractors with no labor rights instead of as employees with rights under federal and state labor laws, the ride-sharing companies have the upper hand over the drivers. I have seen this exploitation in the package shipping industry where I worked for two decades at UPS. Our competitor, FedEx, treated their package drivers as independent contractors until they lost lawsuits from their drivers in recent years for back wages, costing FedEx over $450 billion. Similar lawsuits could be

A Voice on the Job •Uber & Lyft recognition of our independent, driver-led organization, to negotiate on behalf of drivers •The right to organize without retaliation •An elected driver-representative appointed to Uber & Lyft's boards of directors

Editorial credit: Cory Seamer / Shutterstock.com

one avenue the drivers of these ride-sharing companies might pursue in to realize their Drivers’ Bill of Rights.The Drivers' Bill of Rights covers:

matching New York City's $27.86 per hour before expenses •Include a gas-price indexed surcharge in fare

Fair Pay •10% commission cap for Uber & Lyft •Pay drivers per mile & per minute rate en route to the passenger •Set hourly minimum pay

TNC Transparency •Transparent, speedy, independent de-activation appeals process, with all discipline held to "just cause" standard •Show drivers the estimated fare payment & the trip desti-

Community Standards •Rideshare vehicle cap to eliminate unnecessary traffic & carbon emissions •Emission standards for all new vehicles added to the platforms •Uber & Lyft must share all vehicle data with local authorities for traffic management But I think a better solution is one we can enact in our cities right now: socialize the ride-

sharing companies by enacting municipal laws that require ride-sharing companies to be worker cooperatives that are collectively owned by their drivers. The workers already own most of the capital in the business: their vehicles and their auto insurance. The worker co-op would then rent the software from Uber, Lyft, or another company, but set their own terms of work in line with the Driver Bill of Rights. And if Uber, Lyft, and the other few ride-sharing companies use their shared monopoly position to charge too much rent for the software, socializing the software by developing a public version would be in order.p Howie Hawkins, a recently retired Teamster in Syracuse, was the 2018 Green Party candidate for Governor of New York. Read more of his articles at www.workersworldtoday.com

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June 20-July 4, 2019

Union In Action

LaborPress Outstanding Apprenticeships Awards BY WWT STAFF

ugust 2009 saw the birth of the now infamous labor news publication, LaborPress. This initiative was started by Neal Tepel in an effort to provide a media source for unions and workers alike. Today, LaborPress stands as New York’s largest provider of labor news. As their readership continues to expand, they enjoy their association with government officials and legislators, union officers, rank and file, newspaper reporters and other news organizations, as well as community and business leaders. Recent Endeavor LaborPress, on Thursday, June 06 held its Annual Outstanding Apprentice of the Year Award Ceremony, recognizing the hard work and determination of New York’s union construction workers. The award ceremony was held at District Council 1707 AFSCME in Manhattan and it was well attended by union representatives, families of the awardees and well-wishers. The momentous occasion was hosted by Bronx Councilman Andy King; his wife Neva Shillingford-King presented the awards. Whether you lay a brick, use a hammer or install pipes, the input of construction workers goes a long way. They are very hard workers and can sometimes be unnoticed. Therefore, the initiative taken on by LaborPress to recognize and award these workers for their outstanding performance in the Apprenticeship Training Program, is certainly a positive step. According to LaborPress, “Apprenticeship training programs attract men and women from all walks of life, across many stages of life. Apprenticeships change lives. They inspire big dreams, help build strong families, and unlock untapped human potential.” Apprenticeship Training Program As a result of the Apprenticeship Training Program, New York’s construction field will see an increase in safer working environments. The program gives a sense of empowerment to workers. They are reassured that they

NYSNA NYC Health+Hospitals Nurses Speak Out!

n June 12, the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA) held a press conference and Speak Out on the steps of New York City Hall! Nearly 9,000 nurses in the NYC Health+Hospital System had their contract expire on June 5. NYSNA nurses at New York City's Public Hospitals are in the front line of healthcare delivery serving patients with high quality expertise, dignity and respect, regardless of a patient's ability to pay or immigration status. have a strong union on their side, and they are not alone on the job site. For these unionized apprentices, gone are the days when being quick, is more important than being safe. They are now equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a safe environment for all. The following apprentices were the recipients of awards: Matt Bargellini - Union Member of UA Steamfitters Local 638 Mario Bertorelli - Union Member of Ironworkers Local 46 Douglas Contreras - Union Member of DC 16 Local 6A Cement and Concrete Workers Charles Farrell - Union Member of IUOE Local 30 Thomas Foley Jr. - Union Member of Ironworkers Local 197 Catherine Gibbons - Union Member of UA Plumbers Local 1 Sophia Hedderman - Union Member of NYC District Council of Carpenters Local 157 Brian Lanasa - Union Member of IUOE Local 14 Eric Medina - Union Member of IUOE Local 94 Barry Mullen - Union Member of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 7 Thomas Pendolino - Union Member of SMART Local 137 Bryan Peterson - Union Member of IUOE Local 15 Daniel Rosario - Union Member of Laborers’ DC 16 Local 18A, Cement and Concrete Workers Jeancarlos Sepulveda - Union Member of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 1 Kamil Szwed - Union Member of Laborers’ DC 16 Local 20 Cement and Concrete Workers Khalil Vasquez - Union Member of Laborers’ Local 79 John Zhang - Union Member of SMART Local 28p

When the Mayor’s NYC Care program is fully implemented they will care for hundreds of thousands more uninsured patients a year. The nurses begin bargaining their new contract this month, and will be fighting for fair funding for our public hospital system so that New Yorkers who rely on it aren't getting the short end of the stick. p

Victory for Car Washers

n a huge win for New York’s car wash workers and the culmination of their seven-year campaign for justice in the industry, the New York State Assembly passed A.6346-C just a day after the Senate passed S.4030-A. The new law would require car wash workers downstate for the first time to be paid the full minimum wage. The law is an important step towards ending the injustice of the tip-credit loophole which enables employers to deduct tips from workers’ wages and opens the door for unscrupulous employers to steal their wages. Now, car wash workers are urging the Governor to sign their bill into law quickly and finally put an end to their washed-out-wages. “No worker should earn below the minimum wage – ever, and this law will change the lives of thousands of car wash workers in New York,” said Stuart Appelbaum, President of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU). “For far too long car wash workers in New York

have earned poverty wages under the tip credit law. The New York State Assembly made clear that our legislature recognizes that this abhorrent loophole has left immigrant workers susceptible to wage theft. As a result of the work of both chambers passing this legislation, over 5,000 workers will now have a chance to earn fair wages for their work. Governor Cuomo has long been a supporter of justice for car wash workers and we look forward to him signing this bill into law. We applaud the leadership of Speaker Carl Heastie and lead sponsor Assemblymember Marcos Crespo for taking this historic measure today to lift up and protect car wash workers.”p

June 20-July 4, 2019

www.workersworldtoday.com

Education

Open Enrollment in NYC’s Public Schools BY ERIN TELESFORD

t’s not a common phenomenon for parents to be given jail time for sending their children to a different school district, but the case pinned against Tanya McDowell is an example of how “stealing an education” is a crime that seems to solely affect lowerclass people of color. Actresses Lori Loughlin and Felicity Hoffman along with at least 48 others, were caught in a college admissions scandal earlier this year that sparked outrage in the community over the privileged upper-class white Americans have concerning education. When compared to the lengths McDowell took to ensure her son could have the best education possible regardless of the economic problems they have experienced, Loughlin, Hoffman, and many others have done much worse and had taken laughably extreme lengths to cheat their children’s way into a school

they couldn’t have gotten into on their own if they tried. Although those involved in the scandal deserve a much harsher punishment, a single mother was sentenced to over 5 years for wanting to put her son in a better public school than one that was in her district. The reason McDowell sent her son to a different school than the schools available in her registered district, is obvious to those who have experienced and seen the effects economic segregation has on schools and school districts. It’s no secret that no school is created equal, especially to parents and students in New York City since NYC has one of the most segregated school systems in the country. According to an article by Alex Zimmerman, “New York City distributes some of its school funding through a formula that is designed to give more financial support to schools with greater shares of students with disabil-

Tanya McDowell went to jail for “stealing an education” for her son

ities, who are English learners, or who are struggling academically. But despite some efforts to infuse schools with more resources, the formula has not been fully implemented,” leaving high-need schools with less experienced teachers and less funding for programs. However, school districts that include mainly high income white students, such as the Brockport district whose middle and high schools are up to 83% white, spend $20,691 per student. That is at least six thousand more dollars spent per student than in most com-

munities with a high amount of people of color. A way to combat the lack of funding in public schools where minorities reside is to allow open enrollment in New York’s public schools. According to Zimmerman, “The Open Enrollment Act stipulates that a student may attend any public school or program in the state.” This would make McDowell’s actions of sending her son to a school district she believed would improve her son’s education legal. It would give parents the ability to choose the school that is right for their child’s needs, decrease racial and wealth segregation in schools, and give students who previously would not have had hope that they would get a higher education a chance to learn and prove themselves academically. However, along with the advantages, there are a few disadvantages to implementing open enrollment in schools. If a particular school is considered

popular by people who live within the district as well as outside the district, those particular schools will fill up quickly making it impossible for everyone to be enrolled in the school of their choice. The personal lives of students may also be impacted due to the distance they would have to travel to get to the best school of their choice. The car, subway, or bus ride funds could add up and cause more trouble for some people than the school they go to. The distance from the friends students make in school could also put a damper on their relationships because they will not be able to meet after school or even on weekends if the distance is that great. However, these are all problems that parents could take into consideration when choosing their child’s school and, if they believe these problems won’t affect them, their choice will prove to be more beneficial for themselves and others. p

www.workersworldtoday.com

June 20-July 4, 2019

American Politics

Is the Trump/Pence Regime Fascist? BY TRAVIS MORALES

he Call to Action of RefuseFascism.org asserts: “The Trump/Pence Regime is a Fascist Regime. Not insult or exaggeration, this is what it is. For the future of humanity and the planet, we, the people, must drive this regime out.” So, it’s important that Yale professor Jason Stanley’s book, How Fascism Works: The Politics of Us and Them, boldly implicates Donald Trump as part of a global rise in what he calls “fascist politics.” The dangers of fascist politics come from the particular way in which it dehumanizes segments of the population. Genocides and campaigns of ethnic cleansing are regularly preceded by the kinds of political tactics described in this book. Stanley says the rise of the Trump/Pence regime parallels in many ways the rise of previous fascist regimes. Each chapter in Stanley’s book explores a different strategy that has been used by fascist movements. For example, Trump’s slogan, “Make America Great Again,” attempts to elevate a mythical narrative of past national glory. But when, exactly, was America great, in the eyes of the Trump campaign? During the nineteenth century, when the United States enslaved its Black population? During Jim

In all of these countries, fascists have gained legitimacy and risen to power through the normal electoral channels. This is a perennial feature of fascism. This is important for people to confront and is one reason, among others, why reliance on the 2020 elections to somehow stop the fascism of the Trump/Pence Regime is a dangerous folly. Crow, when black Americans in the South were prevented from voting? Fascist politics are rooted in the history of the United States, but they have risen to new heights in this era of declining empire. As opposed to the dominant obsession with Russian interference in the mainstream media, Stanley says the basis for Trump’s ascension has been ever-present throughout U.S. history. All of these tactics have been previously used in the genocide of Native Americans, the enslavement and segregation of Black Americans for most of American history, the subjugation of

women, and the exclusion of immigrants and refugees. As Bob Avakian, the leader of the revolution, put it, “it’s a little ridiculous when people say something like: ‘Fascism couldn’t really happen here. We have all these institutional protections against it, and, once again, we are these exceptional people. So how could fascism happen here? It couldn’t happen here.’ Oh no, it couldn’t happen here. Not in a country founded on slavery and genocide and steeped in white supremacy as well as male supremacy, manifest destiny and white man’s burden.” (see www.revcom.us)

Fascist politics are on the rise throughout the world, most often through the normal electoral channels. Stanley discusses fascism in a global context, with examples from Russia, India, Hungary, Turkey, Poland, France, Brazil and other countries where fascists have either risen into the highest office of the land or have made substantial gains in the past few years. In all of these countries, fascists have gained legitimacy and risen to power through the normal electoral channels. This is a perennial feature of fascism. This is important for people to confront and is one reason, among others, why reliance on the 2020 elections to somehow stop the fascism of the Trump/Pence Regime is a dangerous folly. Once in power, aided by the perceived legitimacy of elections, fascist leaders continue to use fascist politics to consolidate their hold over government and society. Consider the statement Michael Cohen made in his recent testimony: “Given my experience working for President Trump, I fear that if he loses the election in 2020 that there will never be a peaceful transition of power.” Join RefuseFascism.org discussions, protests, and organizing meetings and on social media @RefuseFascism. If you are finding it harder and harder to make peace with the path the Trump/Pence regime is leading us on, help break others out of their silence, normalization, and conciliation with a fascist nightmare, and raise the demand “Trump/Pence MUST GO!” For this article, I have drawn from Coco Das’ article, “Important Insights and One Gaping Hole in Jason Stanley’s How Fascism Works” on RefuseFascism.org. Again, I say, this System CANNOT Be Reformed—It MUST Be Overthrown!p

Travis Morales is a long-time Revolutionary Communist Party supporter and is on the Steering Committee of RefuseFascism.org NYC. RefuseFascism.org has one unifying goal: This Nightmare Must End, The Trump/Pence Regime Must Go!

Union Know Your (Union Plus) Rights: Strike Benefits

nion Plus knows that union members are more powerful when we stick together. And Union Plus stands with union members in those rare instances when they face the possibility of a picket line during a unionsanctioned strike. Among other Hardship Help grants and assistance, Union Plus offers Strike Benefits for eligible members. These grants and assistance programs are specially designed to help union members through uncertain times: For Union Plus Credit Cardholders: After three months as a cardholder, you may be eligible for a $300 Strike Grant. For Union Plus Mortgage Customers: We offer Union Plus Mortgage Assistance. Strike/lockout grants can make mortgage payments if you’re participating in a union-approved strike or are locked out for more than 30 consecutive days. For Union Plus Personal Loan-holders: After six months as a loanholder, you may be eligible for a $300 Strike Grant. For Union Members Who Participate in the Following Programs: Union Plus Auto Insurance: Union Plus policyholders involved in a union-approved strike or a lock-out lasting 90 days or longer can defer premium payments for two months. To take advantage of this deferment, call 855-6665797. Union Plus Life Insurance: Union Plus policyholder premiums are waived for up to three months during union-approved strikes lasting more than 30 consecutive days. This waived premium never has to be repaid. To use this strike benefit, call 800-393-0864. For a list of other resources that you may be eligible for as a union member or retiree, visit unionplus.org/hardshiphelpp

June 20-July 4, 2019

www.workersworldtoday.com

Family: The True Modern Relationship

Politics, Sports and Fatherhood in the BLM Movement BY ERIN TELESFORD

hen you are a Black person in America, everything’s different. “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color.” This statement made by Colin Kaepernick to the NFL media after taking a knee at during the national anthem during the NFL preseason game sparked outrage against the athlete by non-Black fans and NFL officials alike. What began as a single man peacefully and silently speaking his mind became a movement, a new age of activism within professional and unprofessional athletes showing solidarity toward the Black Lives Matter Movement (BLM). The NFL had its own despicable reaction to Kaepernick’s protest by prohibiting him from playing for the remainder of the season, to eventually preventing him from signing with any

teams and playing in the NFL ever again. Kapernernick sued and has since settled with the NFL. The NBA handles political activism much differently than the NFL. Lebron James’ 3-part documentary “Shut Up and Dribble” chronicles the modern history of the NBA and how it allows athletes to grow their brands off the court to become icons. He created the documentary after being told by ignorant journalist Laura Ingham to “Shut up and dribble” after James spoke about politics in an interview. The NFL does not give its athletes the same opportunities to grow their brands or allow them to speak openly on issues that affect them. Although this ignorance towards peaceful protest is agonizingly annoying, it is not new. All of the great athletic activists faced adverse reactions to them speaking out against the oppression and discrimina-

tion America has toward Black Americans. Muhammed Ali began his political activism in opposition to the Vietnam War, and his religious obligations to refuse participation in the draft. The initial reaction was resentment from the public and the similar claim against him that is still being used today against Kaepernick, unpatriotism. In the 60s, white people maintained distaste for Ali, but today, people see him as brave. In the near future, Kaepernick will be seen in the same light, as a hero who stood for what he believed in and withstood the backlash against him.

Although the NFL handles activism in all the wrong ways, it is not stopping the new generation of athletes from participating in the movement. Kaepernick, Lebron James, and many other athletic activists are influencing younger athletes to use their platforms to fight against ignorance, brutality and oppression of the black community. Black voices need to be heard and it is most important to hear from people who can’t be taken down. Talented athletes are in high demand in the NFL and other organizations. They will have no choice but to sign on athletic activists if all

the candidates already defined their political stance. What do you say to people who think there’s no room for politics in sports? That question was posed to Jemele Hill, former coanchor of ESPN’s SportsCenter, in an article by Sophie Brickman for Elle magazine. Her answer: “People who would prefer that they be separate clearly don’t recognize that sports have always been tied to social issues. Jackie Robinson integrated Major League Baseball in 1947, almost 20 years before the Civil Rights Act passed. The moment you go to an NFL game, it is inherently political. You have the national anthem, flyovers, a military presence. Those are all political symbols. Also, every time they put up a new stadium or arena, who do they come to for the money? Taxpayers. So I think that people who don’t want politics in sports are just being, frankly, intellectually lazy. They just don’t want politics they disagree with in their sports. There are so many examples of non-sports issues continued on page 16

www.workersworldtoday.com

June 20-July 4, 2019

Old & New Immigrants: Their Rights

Driver's License Access Granted to Undocumented Immigrants

lbany, NY: June 17, the Senate Democratic Majority passed the Driver's License Access and Privacy Act (Green Light NY), sponsored by Senator Luis Sepúlveda, that will restore the right to obtain a license, regardless of immigration status, that existed prior to 2001. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “Today, we passed legislation restoring the right for all qualified drivers to obtain drivers licenses regardless of immigration status. By passing this needed legislation, we are growing our economy while at the same time making our roads safer. This is the right step forward for New York State as we continue to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform on the federal level.” Bill sponsor, Senator Luis Sepúlveda, said “This legislation will not only provide undocumented immigrants with

a legal solution to obtain a driver's license, but its positive impacts will include significant economic growth, improved road safety, and it will keep hardworking families together. Millions of dollars will be raised in revenue, auto insurance premiums will decrease, and local economies will see a boom as earnings and spending increase. In a time when immigrants are being scapegoated for every ill in our country, this is our opportunity for New York State to show our courage and strength, and stand up for the marginalized communities.

For economic, safety, and moral reasons, our communities deserve the Green Light Bill.” The Driver's License Access and Privacy Act (Green Light NY), S.1747B, will allow noncommercial driver's license or learner's permit applicants to be able to submit additional proofs of identity to be eligible for a non-Federal license. It also waives the social security number requirement if the applicant signs an affidavit that they have not been issued a social security number and provides the DMV with discretion to approve additional proofs

of identity and age. Further, this legislation will protect the data of the applicants from unwarranted release. This legislation provides additional government revenue, supports New York businesses and increases road safety. Statewide, the Fiscal Policy Institute estimates that this legislation will result in $83.9 million in government revenues over the first three years and $6.4 million in recurring revenue thereafter. In a statement of support, the Business Council of New York State said that this legislation is “an opportunity to increase these New Yorkers’ ability to support local employers and businesses.” In Connecticut, where a similar policy was implemented four years ago, there have been almost 4,000 fewer unlicensed driving convictions and hit-and-run crashes have dropped 9% between 2016 and 2018. p

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June 20-July 4, 2018

Workers’ Concerns Domestic Violence continued from page 1 the Human Rights Watch Film Festival. A victim of all too common domestic violence, Jessica Gonzalez (now Lanahan) did what women in a similar plight are always advised to do—she filed an order of protection against her abusive ex-husband assuming she would be safe. Did it work? Unfortunately, the answer is an emphatic no because her ex abducted their three small daughters and shot them to death. Jessica suffered through a nightmarish night as she called the local police becoming increasingly desperate as the hours ticked away. Her calls were ignored by all the police officers who picked up that phone that fateful night. She pleaded with them; they simply told her to let them know if the girls don’t come home. She ultimately filed a lawsuit against the police department, claiming they did not enforce the restraining order. Notwithstanding her grief and pain, she pursued her case to the highest court of the land—the Supreme Court and the Inter American Commission on Human Rights. Caroline Bettinger-Lopez, a member of her legal team and former White House Advisor on Violence against Women, emailed me her articles including, “Introduction: Jessica Lanahan (Gonzalez) v. United States Implementation, Litigation and Mobilization Strategies.” Jessica, a Latina and Native American, and her ex, Simon, were working-class residents of Castle Rock, Colorado. Since he manifested a pattern of abusive behavior in the past, vis a vis his family, Jessica logically obtained a restraining order. According to Bettinger-Lopez, “ a …notice to law enforcement on the back of the restraining order quoted Colorado’s mandatory arrest law which states that ‘a peace officer should use every reasonable means to enforce a restraining order…and arrest… or seek a warrant for the arrest of the restrained person.’” Did the police turn over that page and read these instructions? Apparently, they did not. Her telephone calls ignored; the notice ignored. But nonetheless, she persevered. On the night of June 22, 1993, while innocently playing in their front yard, with no foreboding of their gruesome fate, Simon abducted his daughters.

Jessica was convinced she knew the identity of their abductor and conveyed her suspicions to the police. “She contacted the Castle Rock Police Department…nine times over the course of nearly ten hours to report the abduction and restraining order violation and to seek help in locating her children and arresting Mr. Gonzalez. Her increasingly desperate calls and in-person pleas went unheeded despite Colorado’s clearly delineated mandatory arrest law.” A mother begs the police but apparently, they turned a deaf ear to her desperate pleas. A parenthetical note--the police did finally step into the picture and did their job, but it was sadly too late when Simon, armed with a gun, arrived on the threshold of the police station and engaged in a bloody gun battle. The police response—they killed him and soon thereafter made the gruesome and heartbreaking discovery of those three dead bodies lying motionless in his van. Jessica immediately and without hesitation sued that aforementioned police department for $30 million arguing that “they failed to take reasonable steps to protect her children from the real…risk posed by their father. …The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 7-2 decision ruled that she had absolutely no constitutional right to the enforcement of such an order.” One can only speculate on why these orders are on the books as recommended avenues for abused women. Bettinger-Lopez continues, “An obscure but promising legal avenue was available to Jessica…. She could file a petition with the Inter American Commission on Human Rights claiming the U.S. was responsible for human rights violations resulting from the CRPD [Castle Rock Police Department] inaction and the

Supreme Court decision. When Jessica learned of the Inter American Commission on Human Rights system she was hopeful that framing her case as a human rights violation could give closure to her personal tragedy and spur important legislative and policy changes in the U.S. Jessica filed a petition before the commission alleging violation of fundamental rights…to life and freedom from inhumane treatment…the petition contextualized her story within a larger pattern of non-response to domestic violence by the police… .never before had a domestic violence survivor file an international legal claim against the U.S.” Once upon a time, domestic violence victims lived with their abusers behind closed doors. Even though their doors have been broken down, their suffering is still a daily reality. But one courageous woman has emerged from the huge population of its victims who embarked on a journey that spanned several years with no inkling of its success or failure, a journey that transformed her identity from victim who lost not just one child, but three, to

advocate. Jessica now enjoys the distinction of being named the first domestic violence survivor to successfully bring a case against the U.S. government before an international human rights tribunal. Her goal—to achieve justice for her deceased children and to strengthen legal rights for other women similarly victimized. As Bettinger-Lopez stated, “In 2011 the Commission issued the landmark decision finding the U.S. responsible under the American Declaration on the Rights and Duties of Man for human rights violations suffered by …Lanahan and her children. The commission found that the Castle Rock Police…should have known that the girls’ lives were at risk...and failing to…ensure the implementation of the restraining order.” Her case now appears in textbooks around the U.S. and within the domestic violence community and Jessica is presently a Visiting Scholar, Dorothea S. Clarke Progress in Feminist Jurisprudence, Cornell Law School. p

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June 20-July 4, 2019

Book Review & Conversations That Shameful Epoch in U.S. History: Slavery in the Civil War South BY MARILYN SILVERMAN

his book invites us, the reader, on a journey backwards in time to a disgraceful, heinous, reprehensible epoch in our nation’s history—slavery. We are introduced to a courageous man, Jason, who persevered in fulfulling a dream to be free. By the light of day Jason hides amidst the dense forest foliage, knowing he was at the mercy of a frightening 19th century entrepreneur—the slave catcher whose modus operandi was to capture these runaway slaves and unceremoniously reunite them with their despicable owners—a career that erupted on the business horizon after the passage of the 1850s Fugitive Slave Act. "His life mission — the killing of any man that…fought for the preservation…of the political system and the twisted ideology that held…millions of black men, women, and children in…slavery….He specifically wanted to kill…the white man who had repeatedly raped his mother…the white man who had impregnated his

mother…unfettered sexual access to the plantation’s black females was universally accepted.” p

Fatherhood in the BLM Movement continued from page 13 mixing with sports. ESPN has done some incredible fundraising for cancer. I don’t hear anybody say “stick to sports” when that happens. But when it’s Colin Kaepernick, racism, or police brutality, then they want to stick to sports. That has more to do with the subject than them wanting sports to be absent of heavier issues. “ Many people believe famous athletes are exempt from white oppression; however, all Black people experience police brutality and discrimination, even athletes. In an interview with former NBA star Etan Thomas, the interviewer, Don Cravins Jr. of National Urban League: For the Movement podcast, explained that he still fears for his life in the presence of police and takes extra precautions not to be out late at night or travel

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in certain areas out of fear of being targeted by an officer. Thomas himself explained the difficult situation he had to face, teaching his children, as young as six years old, how to speak and act in the presence of authority in order to keep their lives. Black parents are forced to prepare their children for an experience that no other race or ethnicity will ever have in this society. “Every parent believes things will be better for their children…” Don Cravins Jr continues, “... you’re doing your child a disservice if you don’t have that conversation with him.” Black boys and girls not only need to be prepared for the racism and discrimination in America, there are also gender-specific rules to live by. Boys need to be warned that they must not defy authority even if they believe they are innocent in a situation. We see too many young men killed because they do not agree with the police’s actions. It is also necessary for Black fathers to teach their young daughters about respecting themselves. Self-respect is one of the key psychological factors in preventing young girls from predators like R-Kelly, and there are a lot of RKellys in the world. By telling their daughters that they are loved, the girls won’t feel the need to seek that comfort in other men who will likely use their vulnerability to abuse them. The struggles Black people face in America as well as any other society, are incomparable. Black voices need to be heard, even if it means adding politics to the things white people and even other people of color don’t want politics in, like sports and television. Ignorance and police brutality affects our people everywhere, so we will speak about it everywhere until a change is made.p

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June 20-July 4, 2019

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Love, Health & Travel

How to Stop Snooping BY JENNINE ESTES, MFT

he moment you have a suspicion that your spouse is cheating or something just “isn’t right,” you might be tempted to start going through his things. Maybe you scroll through his text messages, or hack into his email. These invasions of privacy, often called “snooping” or “creeping” will probably come back to haunt you. If your partner finds out that you snooped through his stuff, it can just create a bigger issue than you already have. When you lack trust in the relationship, here are some things you can do instead of snooping: Talk to Your Partner If you do have a reason to be suspicious, talk to your partner instead of going through his things behind his back. Using non-attacking language, explain what you are feeling, and how his actions have contributed. Confronting the problem head-on is the only way you and your partner have a chance of combating the issues in your relationship. Snooping can only build more trust issues, not solve them. Ask your partner to have an open policy about viewing each others’ texts and emails if you think it can help you both feel more trust. Knowing that you have permission to see your spouse’s information might make it less tempting to view it because the fear of secrets is diminished. Press the Pause Button If you’re alone in a room with your boyfriend’s cell phone and you start to get paranoid about what might be inside, take a few seconds before you reach for it to snoop. You may or may not have a concrete reason to search, but try pressing

Eating for Healthy Skin

M the pause button to check in. Ask yourself, “Do I really have a reason to be worried?” or “If my friend was about to snoop for the same reasons, would I support it?” Sometimes by taking a moment to talk yourself down, you can decide if you’re actually feeling mistrust for a good reason, or if you’re just being paranoid. If you have the need, share with your partner that you need reassurance and have him show you, instead of you snooping by yourself. Avoid Snooping Situations Sometimes you might need to remove yourself from a situation where snooping is just too tempting. If you have a habit of always checking your husband’s phone when he goes to bed at night, make it a new habit to pick up a book during that time, or power his device down and put it in another room. When you feel the urge to open his email, go for a walk or remove yourself from the room for 10 minutes. Staying out of tempting situations can keep you out of trouble. Previous Findings Searching your boyfriend’s phone or computer may have had a payout. When you have

found things in the past and your partner doesn’t come clean, then you need to come clean about what you know. If you have found incriminating things before and never addressed it, your secure attachment has suffered a deep wound. Talking openly about it with your partner and the help of a counselor can help you evaluate if you both want to stay in the relationship — and how to make it healthier if you both agree to work on staying together. If you are snooping, there are some trust issues in your relationship. If you want to salvage the relationship, sometimes getting help from a professional will guide you in the right direction and you can stop snooping. A counselor or marriage and family therapist can help you build trust and stop the desire to snoop.p

Jennine is a Marriage and Family Therapist in San Diego, CA., certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. She writes relationship and self-growth advice for her column, Relationships in the Raw. She is the creator of #BeingLOVEDIs campaign. MFC#47653.

Seek Professional Assistance The relationship between diet and radiant skin differs between people. Those who are sensitive to certain ingredients may notice foods affecting them differently. When you are committed to changing the way you eat, you should seek assistance from a professional for the best results. You shouldn’t omit a certain food because it caused skin issues to someone you know. Without the advice from an expert, you may be missing out on important nutrients. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nutrient-rich whole foods

like fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats are beneficial to your entire body, including skin. It’s also wise to ask a dermatologist in your area about supplements that can enhance your health. They will only recommend vitamins which have been approved by federal regulations. Beneficial Vitamins When restructuring your diet, you should add plenty of vitamin-packed foods into your plans. Here are some great ones to look for, as recommended by the International Food Information Council Foundation: • Vitamin A: Is considered by reputable healthcare experts like the Mayo Clinic as a vitamin that promotes anti-aging and acne-healing abilities. You can find it in many fruits, vegetables, fish, liver and certain cereals. • Zinc: Proven to be effective in healing skin lesions and found in treatments of acne, psoriasis and dermatitis, zinc is a great companion to a healthy diet. It is prevalent in most meats, fish, beans and spinach. • Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant has been shown to provide UV protection and assist in wound healing. You can find it in most citrus fruits and packaged orange juice at your local grocery store. p

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ost are familiar with the role diet plays in maintaining a waistline. Did you know certain foods are also a contributor to the overall health of your skin? To keep your body’s largest organ’s youthfulness, introduce nutrients found in most fruits, vegetables and nuts. There are numerous beauty products which promise to reverse the effects of aging on skin. However, one of the easiest and most effective treatments starts from the inside. Build a shopping list based on the perimeter of your grocery store, to achieve healthy and glowing skin.

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June 20-July 4, 2019

Love, Health & Travel

Your Job May Be Killing You: Pack Your Travel Bags, It’s Time to Go BY VICTORIA FALK

es, it’s time to go on vacation. Some people believe that a vacation is a luxury. However, it’s a necessity: this I learned from a reformed workaholic, Susie (name changed for privacy) after her doctor warned her, that her job was killing her. At that time, Susie, a social work supervisor monitored a total of 60 families, who were involved in the child welfare system, and 6 full-time employees, thought it natural to work hard to ensure the safety of these children and families. Furthermore, management encouraged supervisors to work extra hours, beyond the regular workday, so the staff would sense their commitment to their jobs. Therefore, it became common practice to work long hours at the office, take work home, and come in on weekends and/or holidays to get

things done – until that day she’ll never forget. Although it happened more than a decade ago, she still remembers how the doctor looked her straight in the eyes and said, “Susie, I know you love your job, but your job is killing you.” There are some things that do not require repeating. That night, after returning home from the doctor’s office, she planned a vacation. It was the first of many great vaca-

tions that helped her to transform into a happier, healthier, and more productive person. Here are just a few of the many benefits of taking a vacation: Travel helps to reduce stress. Stress is a contributing factor in several of the major health problems affecting the community, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Nothing melts away stress like a great vacation. Imagine relaxing in the lounge chair as your cruise ship is pulling into a fabulous Caribbean island of your choice. There you will be greeted by friendly locals with the most delicious delicacies representing the culture of the island. Feel the stress melting away. Travel helps to improve creativity and mental health. People can become stagnant when they have the same routine playing out in their minds

repeatedly. However, traveling to a new destination provides you with new and useful information that stimulates your thinking. You discover a new way of viewing the world and are able to put things into perspective. When you step off the airplane in a different continent, the problem that once seemed humongous was merely a small nuisance that really isn’t important in the full scheme of things. Travel helps you find time to plan and focus. Working extended hours without a break can actually make you weary, cause your mind to wander, and therefore, decreases overall productivity. But you’ll have time to plan and focus when you’re lying on the beach, watching the waves go by. A great retreat does more to increase your effectiveness, than adding more hours to your workday.

Travel helps you strengthen bonds with family and loved ones. Cruises are the best type of vacation to take when you have several generations of the same family traveling together. There is something to do for people of all ages, at varying activity levels, on a cruise ship. Mom and Dad can go dancing, while the grandparents are enjoying a Broadway-style performance, and the teens are enjoying the water slide. There’s plenty of time to catch up on the good days and make beautiful new memories with the people you care about most. p

Victoria Falk is the award-winning CEO of Passionate Travel Inc. Take the stress out of vacation planning and save your energy to do the things you love doing. Contact Victoria to make your travel dreams a reality at 800-890-7492. Visit www.passionatetravelinc.com

June 20-July 4, 2019

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Workers’ Rights

How Head Injuries Hurt the Brain BY JAMELIAH FRANCIS

ou may have slipped, fell and bumped your head. Though the injury may seem inconsequential at first, what if there are severe brain damages, such as a skull fracture, concussion, or traumatic brain injury. More so, what if you were walking on the sidewalk and the accident was no fault of yours and you can be compensated? Knowing how a simple fall – hitting the head, can affect the brain is crucial, but worrying how this can affect you mentally, emotionally and financially is another story. The Brain The brain, though covered by a hard shell – the skull, is very sensitive. It has many important functions which allows human beings to go about their daily lives in comfort. According to WebMD.com, “the brain is one of the largest and most complex organs in the human body. It is made up of more than 100 billion nerves that communicate in trillions

of connections called synapses. The brain is made up of many specialized areas that work together.” According to WebMD, functions such as breathing and sleeping, voluntary movements and thinking are all controlled by the brain. Therefore, any type of head injury is a cause for concern, since they can result in severe illnesses such as mental impairment, permanent disability or even death. Head Injuries WebMD.com states that, “Head injuries can be classified as injuries to the skull, scalp, or brain caused by trauma.” It is broadly specified, in that, there are many causes. These include, but is not limited to physical assaults, accidents, as a result of wounds from war or evening a slip and fall on the sidewalks. How Head Injuries Hurt the Brain (Mentally) Danish scientists conducted a study between head traumas such as concussion and skull

needing any other medical examinations, tests and treatments and if so, what are the potential cost? These procedures are normally very expensive and the answers to these questions can be very worrisome, especially if you are financially unstable. This obviously will put even more emotional pressure on the already damaged brain.

fracture and the potential risk of mental disorder developments. During that study they found that the risk of developing mental disorder can be increased by 4.39 percent due to head injuries. “I am quite surprised by our findings. I had expected to see a correlation, but it is stronger than I had expected,” says Sonja Orlovska, MD, of the Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen. Head injuries, no matter the cause is seen to have an adverse effect on the human brain. It can result in life threatening issues such as mental illness and otherwise.

Slip and Fall Accidents Slip and fall accidents – hitting the head, mostly take place because of dangerously unsafe conditions on a private property or on the public roads. Often times, these bad sidewalk conditions are due to a negligent property owner. Therefore, in the event of a slip and fall, the first thing to do is to prevent further injuries by immediately seeking medical help - call an ambulance as quickly as possible. Ask your doctor questions concerning your health after the concussion. Questions include whether or not you will be

There is Help What if you can eliminate the extra worry by being compensated as a result of the slip and fall? This is where you need a qualified and experienced lawyer to assist you through your ordeal. Living with a brain injury or mental illness can disrupt a person’s life but being able to get the necessary help to financially take you through goes a long way. Sometimes, an attorney can diagnose better than a doctor. Gete the right information, to make the right decision for yourself and your family. For a FREE, no obligation consulation, call 855-768-8845. p