INSIDE
August 2020 What Is Advance Care Planning? ... 7
Immigrant Workers Are Essential to the US Postal Service ... 21
Equity Smart Realty Insert ... 13-16
Issue #11
AFT’s Weingarten Rejects Trump's Schools Reopening Guidelines as Too Little, Too Late
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ASHINGTON: American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement after the White House convened a forum on reopening schools and published contentfree “recommendations” to physically reopen school buildings in the middle of a pandemic: “Everyone wants to return to some kind of normalcy, but the White House recommendations are too little, too late, and
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almost comical in their lack of detail and rigor. The administration has been missing in action for five months as the virus spiraled out of control in the South and Southwest, and now, with the school year already started for millions for children, it tosses around empty rhetoric while refusing to negotiate a funding bill that would deliver the relief we so desperately need. “Unlike President Trump’s AFT President Weingarten
continued on page 9
Hot Topics and News You Should Know About
Why Police Unions Are Not Part of the American Labor Movement BY PAUL F. CLARKE, THE CONVERSATION
Editorial credit: Steve Sanchez Photos / Shutterstock.com
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n the wake of George Floyd’s death at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer, news reports have suggested that police unions bear some of the responsibility for the violence perpetrated against African Americans. Critics have assailed these unions for protecting officers who have abused their authority. Derek Chauvin, the former police officer facing second-degree murder charges for Floyd’s death, had nearly 20 complaints filed against him during his career but only received two letters of reprimand. continued on page 6
NY: Legislation Penalizing Housing Discrimination... 13
Test and Trace Protocols for NYC Public Schools... 12
Ways to Manage COVID-19 Related Anxiety ... 24
Labor-Related News - Nationally & Locally
Black and Latino Workers Have Greater Safety Concerns ... 8
Losing Your Job or Getting Furloughed
L NYC Rallies for Postal Service Day of Action ... 2
New Relief Fund for Commercial Sanitation Workers ...18
Labor Unions, UFT: Schools Unprepared to Open ... 17
Dividing Your Assets During a Divorce: What Every Couple Needs to Know ... 23
osing your job can be a shock to your system. In cases such as a layoff or furlough, knowing that it’s not personal can help ease the pain. While processing the situation may take some time, it’s best to keep a level head and take immediate steps to put yourself in the best position possible. continued on page 19
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August 2020
Labor will remain united and continue to work to protect the interests of America’s working families. —William Burrus, November 2004
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Contents
NYC Rallies for Postal Service Day of Action
In Solidarity: 100 Days of Suffrage: How the ALA Contines to Empower Women Voters...........................................3 Workers’ Matters Black and Latino Workers Experience Greater Safety Concerns..............................................8
Elections 2020 ... 26 Make Sure Your Vote Counts in November
Workers’ Safety Labor Unions, UFT, Says NYC Schools Are Dangerously Unprepared to Open...................................................................................17
Thousands of people took action across America with one clear message – #SaveThePostOffice. Here in NYC, dozens of demonstrators including members of the New York Metro Area Postal Union and supporters gathered on the steps of the Farley Post Office to protest the Trump administration's dismantling of the USPS.
Labor History - August 25 The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters was founded at a meeting in New York City. A. Philip Randolph became the union’s first organizer. – 1925
Jobs & Recession Losing Your Job or Getting Furloughed.....................19
Union in Action... 10 Union Members Restore Power After Hurricane Isaias
Schedule a presentation, workshop or public event this fall with the CIW to learn how you can support human rights for essential farmworkers today! Presentations can be tailored based on times allotted and specific themes. Get in touch with CIW at organize@allianceforfairfood.org to get on the presentation calendar.
Love, Health & Travel Dividing Your Assets During Divorce: What Every Couple Should Know................................23
COLUMNS
President Harry Truman ordered the U.S. Army to seize all the nation’s railroads. The motivation was simple: the railroad unions had been threatening a strike that could lead to a shutdown. Truman instead took control in order to keep the railroad running and to force the unions to accede. It was an unexpected action from a strongly business-minded president, especially giving the circumstances surrounding the strike.The railroads were kept under federal control for two years. – 1950
Host CIW for a Virtual Presentation this Fall!
Education Test and Trace Protocols for NYC Public Schools.........................................................12
Conversations ... 20 Domestic Violence Doesn’t Take a Holiday Break For some other people, the holidays are just another reason to remain in isolation. They're not hiding by choice though. They live in isolation out of fear for their safety.That's because unlike friends and families, domestic abuse doesn't stop and take a break during the holidays.
Family: The True Modern Relationship ... 11 Co-Parenting Tips When In High Conflict Now and again, however, parents struggle in their relationship with each other — sometimes resulting in separation and divorce, other times requiring repair. What's one to do when there are kids in the mix?
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August 2020
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In Solidarity
100 Years of Suffrage: How the ALA Continues to Empower Female Voters
I Supports Workers’ World Today
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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
t came down to one vote. One hundred years ago, on Aug. 18, 1920, the 19th Amendment was ratified with the vote of a young Tennessee senator breaking a tie to tip the scales. American women had won the long, hardfought right to vote. After a 70-year movement and a four-year war, their voices were being heard across the country. On the 100th anniversary of this major accomplishment, we take note of how our country's past resembles its present as we mobilize toward a better future. Just like this year, 1920 was a time of renewal in our nation. The end of World War I ushered in a new chapter of American life and a reinvigoration of the women's suffrage movement. Throughout the war, women had driven ambulances across battlefields, stitched up wounded soldiers, sewn surgical masks and operated munitions factories. Over 9 million American women participated in the war effort. This swell of patriotic support showcased the valuable role every American plays in our democracy - regardless of gender. As American life shifted back to its pre-war reality, it became clear that women didn't have enough opportunities to engage in government and express their patriotism. It was during this same time in the wake of WWI
TEAM Publisher Workers’ World Today, Inc Editor-in-Chief Pearl Phillip Contributing Writers Marilyn Silverman Charles Tabasso Victoria Falk Erin Telesford Jennine Estes, MFT Travis Morales Mary Campbell Janet Howard Legal Advisor Brian Figeroux, Esq. Telephone 1-866-435-3286 Email info@workersworldtoday.com Visit us at www.workersworldtoday.com
that the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) was founded, on Nov. 10, 1919, providing women with a forum to support their veteran spouses and promote the patriotism that had been so essential to them during the war. Less than a year later, in August 1920, the 19th amendment was ratified and women were given the right to officially and fully participate in our democracy by voting. One hundred years later, women play an important role in the American political process, and the ALA continues to help young women learn about the way our government runs and the value of their vote. ALA Girls Nation, hosted annually, teaches young women about the democratic process through a week-long, immersive learning experience in Washington, D.C. Participants learn about the power of being an engaged citizen by representing their own states in a mock government as they campaign for political office, craft and debate the passage of legislation, and
meet with their real-life counterparts on Capitol Hill. This invaluable program is where young women get to put their patriotism and political aspirations into action and experience a real-world look at the democracy they contribute to daily. Every moment that led to a woman's right to vote - from the first woman to step up and join the war effort to that final vote being cast by a 23-yearold senator - is a testament to fighting for our freedoms. We celebrate and honor veterans by utilizing the freedoms they protect and participating in our democracy. As we reach the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage, we reflect on this monumental step toward equality. The best way to show thanks for our country and the people who fought for it is to exercise our right to vote. p To learn more about ALA Girls Nation, or any other American Legion Auxiliary program, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.
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Civil Rights
Implicit Bias Leaves a Lasting Mark on the Federal Judiciary BY SARA CAMPBELL & MAXWELL TINTER, CIVILRIGHTS.ORG
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t has already been a long summer for New Yorkers of color. Black, Latino, and Asian residents have gotten COVID-19 at higher rates, while also suffering the worst effects of the recession. Police brutality has compounded these problems, but also sparked an inspiring movement to take racism head-on. At a June hearing on police brutality and justice reform, Senator John Cornyn made it clear that he does not acknowledge systemic racism or implicit bias. He’s wrong. At a July oversight hearing on the Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr testified that he does not see systemic racism in police departments. He’s also wrong. Regardless of whether or not Cornyn, Barr, and likely many others choose to accept it, our institutions are infused with bias and racism. And each of
us holds implicit biases that affect the way we interact with people and our assumptions about them based on race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability status, and more. Unlike explicit biases, implicit biases are unconscious associations, but manifest particularly in decision-making processes where people may rely on stereotypes to help make sense of complicated circumstances. No one is exempt from these biases — not senators, not attorneys
general, and certainly not judges, who are tasked with providing equal justice under the law. Biases have plagued our legal systems since our government was created. For most of American history, the structures of our government embedded racism, as is evident through the institution of slavery, legalized segregation, and persisting disparities in prosecutions and sentencing. Justice reform efforts have sought to remove these biases from the law for generations in order to
truly fulfill the promise of equal protection. Through reform efforts, we are still reckoning with a justice system that disproportionately arrests, imprisons, endangers, and kills Black and Brown people. Today, what fundamentally changes outcomes for these communities is not just the explicit racism and bias, but also the implicit biases of the people who comprise our justice system in practice. These prejudices and biases manifest in stop-and-frisks, over-policing of Black and Brown communities, the bail system, jury selection, factfinding related to discriminatory practices, sentencing, and every other aspect of the justice system. Disparities and discrimination also persist in civil litigation that affect issues like voting, employment, and housing decisions. In fact, civil cases comprise more of the cases on the federal docket than criminal proceedings. While every person involved
brings their implicit biases to court with them, the role that judges play and how and whether those biases impact people’s civil and human rights is critical. It’s one of the reasons The Leadership Conference closely evaluates nominees to serve in lifetime appointments on the federal bench — to learn more about their experiences as well as whether and how they are working to combat these biases. Through their decisions, federal judges at all levels — district courts, circuit courts of appeals, and the U.S. Supreme Court — can influence and change the systemic practices that contribute to unfair outcomes for people subject to these biases. And even though judges are an integral part of a process purported to ensure fairness, they hold their own implicit biases — so it’s important to understand and reckon with the biases that may affect continued on page 6
Live in the basement? Yes, the census is for you. Your answers cannot be shared with your landlord, ICE, or any law enforcement agency. You don’t need a paper form.
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Issues Police Unions/ continued from page 1
Implicit Bias/ continued from page 5
Many people who support labor unions in principle, who view them as a countervailing force against the power of employers, have only recently come to view police unions as problematic – as entities that perpetuate a culture of racism and violence. But this sentiment reverberates through the history of the U.S. labor movement. As a labor scholar who has written about unions for decades, I think this viewpoint can be explained by the fact that police unions differ fundamentally from almost all trade unions in America. Foot soldiers for the status quo For many veterans of the labor movement, police have been on the wrong side of the centuries-old struggle between workers and employers. Rather than side with other members of the working class, police have used their legal authority to protect businesses and private property, enforcing laws viewed by many as anti-union. The strain between law enforcement and labor goes back to the origins of American unions in the mid 19th century. Workers formed unions to fight for wage increases, reduced working hours and humane working conditions. For employers, this was an attack on the existing societal power structure. They enlisted the government as the defender of capital and property rights, and police officers were the foot soldiers who defended the status quo. When workers managed to form unions, companies called on local police to disperse union gatherings, marches and picket lines, using violence and mass arrests to break the will of strikers. A narrow focus Police work is a fundamentally conservative act. And police officers tend to be politically conservative and Republican.
Port Huron, Michigan / USA - June, 5, 2020: Protests and demonstrations In Saint Clair County Michigan Editorial credit: Famous Roger Sheldon / Shutterstock.com A poll of police conducted in September 2016 by POLICE Magazine found that 84% of officers intended to vote for Donald Trump that November. And law enforcement unions like the Fraternal Order of Police, the International Union of Police Associations and the National Border Patrol Council all endorsed Trump’s candidacy in 2016. This contrasts sharply with the 39% share of all union voters who voted for Trump and the fact that every other union which made an endorsement supported Hillary Clinton. Exclusively protecting the interests of their members, without consideration for other workers, also sets police unions apart from other labor groups. Yes, the first priority of any union is to fight for their members, but most other unions see that fight in the context of a larger movement that fights for all workers. Police unions do not see themselves as part of this movement. With one exception – the International Union of Police Associations, which represents just 2.7% of American police – law enforcement unions are not affiliated with
the AFL-CIO, the U.S. labor body that unites all unions. Alternative justice system A central concern with police unions is that they use collective bargaining to negotiate contracts that reduce police transparency and accountability. This allows officers who engage in excessive violence to avoid the consequences of their actions and remain on the job. In a way, some police unions have created an alternative justice system that prevents police departments and municipalities from disciplining or discharging officers who have committed crimes against the people they are sworn to serve. In Minneapolis, residents filed more than 2,600 misconduct complaints against police officers between 2012 and 2020. But only 12 of those grievances resulted in discipline. The most significant punishment any officer received was a 40-hour suspension. Besides collective bargaining, police have used the political process – including candidate endorsements and lobbying –
to secure local and state legislation that protects their members and quells efforts to provide greater police accountability. Police officers are a formidable political force because they represent the principle of law and order. Candidates endorsed by the police unions can claim they are the law and order candidate. Once these candidates win office, police unions have significant leverage to lobby for policies they support or block those they oppose. Because of this power, critics claim that police unions don’t feel accountable to the citizens they serve. An attorney who sued the Minneapolis Police Department on behalf of a Black resident who was severely beaten by police officers said that he is convinced that Minneapolis “officers think they don’t have to abide by their own training and rules when dealing with the public.”p Paul F. Clark is the School Director and Professor of Labor and Employment Relations, Pennsylvania State University
their decisions and actions. The racial and ethnic homogeneity of our federal judiciary makes these implicit biases more likely to impact the same communities that the justice system has historically mistreated. Implicit biases largely “stem from a pervasive desire to feel positive about oneself based on one’s group membership,” meaning judges’ negative associations are likely to be held against individuals who exist outside of their own racial and ethnic groups. Thus, a judiciary that is disproportionately white runs the risk of alienating, harming, or oppressing people of color. While the diversity of the federal judiciary has increased in the past few decades, it remains overwhelmingly white and male, a pattern that has increased and accelerated under the Trump administration. In fact, President Trump replaced 14 people of color — including eight women of color — nominated by President Obama with white nominees. Of the 203 lifetime judges appointed by President Trump, 157 are white men. In confirmation hearings for these lifetime appointments, senators, including Senator Cory Booker, have asked nominees whether they acknowledge bias in the justice system and what role judges should play in mitigating this bias. Asking these questions is a step in the right direction. Given the unconscious and self-affirming nature of implicit biases, this is a vital effort to determine whether these potential judges can recognize internal bias because, as simple as it sounds, recognizing its existence is the first step to confronting it.p Sara Campbell is a junior at Yale University. Maxwell Tinter is a senior at Georgetown University. Both served as summer 2020 undergraduate interns at The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.
August 2020
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Generations
What Is Advance Care Planning?
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dvance care planning is not just about old age. At any age, a medical crisis could leave you too ill to make your own healthcare decisions. Even if you are not sick now, planning for health care in the future is an important step toward making sure you get the medical care you would want, if you are unable to speak for yourself and doctors and family members are making the decisions for you. Many Americans face questions about medical treatment but may not be capable of making those decisions, for example, in an emergency or at the end of life. This article will explain the types of decisions that may need to be made in such cases and questions you can think about now so you're prepared later. It can help you think about who you would want to make decisions for you if you can't make them yourself. It will also discuss ways you can share your wishes with others. Knowing who you
end-of-life care. You might think of it as a living document—one that you can adjust as your situation changes because of new information or a change in your health. Advance Care Planning Decisions Sometimes decisions must be made about the use of emergency treatments to keep you alive. Doctors can use several artificial or mechanical ways to try to do this. Decisions that might come up at this time relate to: want to make decisions on your behalf and how you would decide might take some of the burden off family and friends. What Is Advance Care Planning? Advance care planning involves learning about the types of decisions that might need to be made, considering those decisions ahead of time, and then letting others know—both your family and your health-
care providers—about your preferences. These preferences are often put into an advance directive, a legal document that goes into effect only if you are incapacitated and unable to speak for yourself. This could be the result of disease or severe injury—no matter how old you are. It helps others know what type of medical care you want. An advance directive also allows you to express your values and desires related to
•CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) •Ventilator use •Artificial nutrition (tube feeding) and artificial hydration (IV, or intravenous, fluids) •Comfort care Getting Started with Advance Care Planning Start by thinking about what kind of treatment you do or do not want in a medical emergency. It might help to talk
with your doctor about how your current health conditions might influence your health in the future. For example, what decisions would you or your family face if your high blood pressure leads to a stroke? You can ask your doctor to help you understand and think through your choices before you put them in writing. If you don't have any medical issues now, your family medical history might be a clue to help you think about the future. Talk with your doctor about decisions that might come up if you develop health problems similar to those of other family members. Research shows that advance directives can make a difference, and that people who document their preferences in this way are more likely to get the care they prefer at the end of life than people who do not.p This content is provided by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of Health.
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Workers’ Matters
Black and Latino Essential Workers Experience Greater Safety Concerns Than Their White Counterparts BY JASMINE KERRISSEY, CLARE HAMMONDS & DONALD T. TOMASKOVIC-DEVEY THE CONVERSATION
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lack and Latino essential workers are more likely to feel stressed over job safety and security as well as family pressures than white workers, according to a recent survey of essential workers we conducted in Massachusetts, among them doctors, sanitation workers and grocery employees. Specifically, 70% of Black workers and 78% who are Latino reported that they didn’t feel safe on the job, compared with 58% of white people. This is not simply because Latino and Black workers were more likely to be in low-wage
jobs. When we analyzed lowwage workers separately, Latino and Black people in this group were still far more likely to feel unsafe in the pandemic than their white counterparts. We found that access to benefits on the job is critical to maintaining personal and family health. Across all of the dimensions we looked at, workers of color were less likely to have access to basic job benefits, including health insurance and paid sick leave, compared to white essential workers. Black and Latino respondents were also more likely to report that the intensity and stress of their work had accelerated since the pandemic began. A Black woman working as a cashier at a grocery store said:
“It is really stressful. We are all working really hard to keep it together because we have families to provide for, and people think we are robots that are just there to get pay. We have to care for ourselves and for each and every client that comes in, making sure they keep the right distance and sometimes they don’t even listen to us.” Stress also comes from experiences off the job. We found that Latino and Black essential workers were over 10% more likely to have experienced food, child care and housing insecurities compared with white essential workers. Why it matters All essential workers have good reason to feel unsafe doing their jobs in the middle of a pandemic, but it’s particularly bad for those who earn
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low wages, a higher percentage of whom are people of color. Since Massachusetts has some of the strongest labor market protections in the United States, whatever is happening to essential workers there is most likely worse in many other states.
What’s next In our opinion, there must be universal solutions to combat racial inequalities and the risks associated with working during the pandemic. Universal health care and expanded paid medical leave can
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continued on page 9
August 2020
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Workers’ Matters Greater Safety Concerns/ continued from page 8
social distancing and ensuring that personal protective equipment – like masks and hand sanitizer – is provided to all workers. As states grapple with how to reopen workplaces safely, it is critical to establish health and workplace protections that help address longstanding racial inequities in the labor market. How we do our work We are sociologists of work, labor and inequality. For this particular study, we surveyed 2,600 essential workers throughout Massachusetts from April 24 to May 1.p
help prevent COVID-19 from arriving and spreading at workplaces, while improving testing and treatment in Black and Latino communities is also important, as these communities face the highest risk of infection. Individual workplaces can do their part to address racial inequities by providing all essential workers with substantial hazard pay, organizing the job site to allow for maximum
Jasmine Kerrissey Assistant Professor of Sociology and Labor Studies, University of Massachusetts Amherst Clare Hammonds Professor of Practice and Graduate Program Director, University of Massachusetts Amherst Donald T. Tomaskovic-Devey Professor of Sociology; Director, Center for Employment Equity, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Too Little, Too Late/ continued from page 1 and Betsy DeVos’ pronouncements in July, when they just bullied and threatened, today they simply sketched out what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention produced months ago. Yet, their approach remains flawed: There’s no mention of the testing for kids and teachers, or the threshold of community spread for schools to open. They seem to finally understand the importance of ventilation and social distancing, but what are they doing to make it a reality? They offer mere words, not action. "It’s too bad the administration didn't join teachers and their unions in fighting for the safety, health and wellbeing of children, teachers and communities from the get-go. Instead, they deceived, dithered and downplayed the pandemic, while trying to divert relief to private schools. DeVos might not have felt the urgency from her compound on the shores of Michigan’s Lake
Reheated push for forced reopening comes after thousands of schools have already started the year with hybrid or remote learning Macatawa, but for America’s families this is a matter of life and death. “If people are looking for someone to blame for school buildings staying closed, they should look no further than DeVos, Trump and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. The House of Representatives did its job and passed a massive COVID-19 relief package that included the money schools would need to reopen safely. But the presi-
dent and the Senate pressed the “pause button” and refused to negotiate a deal. “The bottom line is that we still haven’t contained community spread. We don’t have the necessary safeguards. And we don’t have the resources to fix either. That’s why more and more schools are opening remotely. The administration has ignored American families and educators, and with this pathetic Hail Mary, its failure only deepens."p
PREVENT THE SPREAD OF COVID-19 IN NYC! TAKE THESE STEPS:
6 ft
Stay home if sick
Wear a face covering
Only leave for essential medical care and testing or other essential errands.
You can be contagious without symptoms. Protect those around you by wearing a face covering.
Keep physical distance
Keep your hands clean
Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.
Wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
If you are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, you should still stay home as much as possible. Those at increased risk are adults age 50 or older (adults 65 and older are at the highest risk), and those who have other health conditions. Get tested: There are COVID-19 testing sites in all five boroughs. To find a site, visit nyc.gov/covidtest or call 311.
Bill de Blasio Mayor
For the latest information, visit nyc.gov/coronavirus.
Oxiris Barbot, MD Commissioner
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August 2020
Union In Action
Union Members Restore Power After Hurricane Isaias
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s Hurricane Isaias made its way from the Caribbean up the East Coast, wind speeds exceeded 70-80 mph. On Tuesday afternoon, it quickly became the most destructive natural disaster in the tri-state area since Superstorm Sandy, knocking down trees and power lines everywhere. More than 2.5 million people were stranded without electricity. Enter the union workers employed by electrical contractors and utility providers in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Over half of the outages were restored within 24 hours. Local Union No. 3, IBEW responded in all parts of the city. Pictured here (top) are members of the Outside Line and “J” Divisions and Welsbach Electric in the Bronx and Westchester County. Fallen trees and branches littered the
streets and courtyards around Electchester, Local 3’s housing complex in Flushing, Queens. Removal took place over the 48 hours following the storm. Local 3 linemen and electricians are still working day and night. UWUA Local 1-2 (Con Edison and Tree Trimmers), and CWA have also been working
around the clock to re-connect residents to the grid. Pictured at bottom, a UWUA Local 1-2 crew deals with a massivedowned tree affecting power lines on a residential block. With a pandemic and summer temperatures, this was the last thing people needed right now, but workers will power us through! p
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August 2020
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Family: The True Modern Relationship
Co-Parenting Tips When In High Conflict BY JENNINE ESTES
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ur first impression of relationships comes from our parents, whether we like it or not. The good news is that parents have a unique opportunity to help children receive love and construct safe boundaries. Now and again, however, parents struggle in their relationship with each other — sometimes resulting in separation and divorce, other times requiring repair. What's one to do when there are kids in the mix? In the midst of high-stress situations, especially conflict between parents, the sweet souls of little humans can get lost in the mix. Even with the intention of protecting them, the big feelings and needs of little ones may be overlooked. You’re not the first to come looking for co parenting tips. These three mindful practices can make a difference with co-parenting, especially during times of conflict between parents.
Leave the fight outside Children are exposed to their parents’ relationship before they see any other example. Is conflict sometimes a part of that dynamic? Absolutely. Still, there is a difference between acknowledging that conflict exists and can be worked through (or that separation is needed) and exposing children to the grittier side of their parents’ relationship. The simplest guideline is to be kind about each other in front of the kids or say nothing at all. In order to make this happen, it is important to actively make time and space to have difficult conversations away from little hearts and ears. Help your child get heard Seeing or hearing parents fight can be scary for kids. The people who impact them most are causing some seismic shaking in their world. In some children, the resulting anxiety will manifest in their words and behavior, often in less than palatable ways. Bitterness toward one parent or both are
not uncommon; children have a hard time seeing a bigger picture and imagining another side to a conflict.For their sake, it is important to give a child a safe space to share their feelings without punishment. Sometimes the “I hate you” needs to come out to get down to “I’m scared” or “I’m lonely.” John Gottman, Ph. D, writes in Raising An Emotionally Intelligent Child about the five steps of emotion coaching, which include being aware of emotions (yours and your child’s), connecting with your child’s emotions, listening closely, providing names to the feelings, and exploring solutions. A little validation goes a long way: “I know it’s really hard for you to see us upset with each other. I want you to know we both love you and I’m so sorry that you are feeling this way. It’s a scary place to be.” Resource outside of the parent/child relationship A natural way to deal with relationship conflict is to reach to
the nearest person and seek some comfort. Sometimes, however, that closest person is your child. It is not healthy for a parent to resource their child for validation and comfort — it should be the other way around. But that does not mean you are supposed to be alone! Find a friend, family member, or therapist who you can trust to provide some empathy and a place for you to express your anger and sadness. This not only provides you with quality connection,
but it also allows your child to be just that — your child. Coparenting is not an easy journey, even for couples who are not in the middle of a highconflict situation. It requires constant negotiation and creativity, and, let’s be honest, it also causes some frustration! When those little hearts that matter most to you are in turmoil, your parent love wants to do everything you can. p Article is reprinted with the kind permission of Estes Therapy.
August 2020
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Education
Mayor de Blasio and Chancellor Carranza Announce Test and Trace Protocols for NYC Public Schools
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EW YORK: Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza today announced health and safety protocols, including guidance for testing and tracing, for schools for the start of the 2020-21 school year. These protocols will apply to all school communities and will help prevent the spread of COVID-19. “We are doing everything in our power to keep kids healthy while ensuring they are getting the education they deserve. These rigorous test and trace protocols will keep our students and staff safe as we start off this new school year,” said Mayor de Blasio. “New Yorkers did the incredibly difficult work reducing the risk posed by COVID-19, and as a result we’re in a better position than any other city in the country to safely resume in-person education under the current con-
ditions and with clear, consistent health protocols,” said Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza. “The safety and health of our school communities is always our first priority – before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic – and we will remain vigilant in monitoring health conditions this fall while driving toward academic excellence for every student.” In preparation for the start of school, the DOE is purchasing large orders of hygiene supplies on behalf of schools. These supplies include, but are not limited, to, facial coverings for students, teachers, and staff; disinfectant; hand sanitizer; and electrostatic sprayers. School leadership and facilities staff in every school are reviewing school space and making necessary repairs and adjustments to ensure safe conditions for in-person student learning this fall. All staff members will be asked to take a COVID-19 test in the days before the first day of school. School staff will have priority access for free testing at 34 city-run testing locations, with tests provided with expedited results. This testing is also available for families citywide. When school buildings reopen, all schools will be required to enact precautions to prevent, identify, and address the spread of COVID-19. Daily precautions include: •An isolation room for students with symptoms with a dedicated staff member or health profes-
Conclusion of Investigation
During Investigation
Post Investigation
1 confirmed case
Close Classroom, transition to remote learning
Classroom remains closed for 14 days; students and staff in close contact with positive case self-quarantine for 14 days.
At least 2 cases linked together in school, same classroom
Close Classroom, transition to remote learning
Classroom remains closed for 14 days; students and staff in close contact with positive cases self-quarantine for 14 days
At least 2 cases linked together in school, different classrooms
Close school building, transition to remote learning
Classrooms of each case remain closed and quarantined, additional school members are quarantined based on where the exposure was in the school (e.g., the locker room)
At least 2 cases?linked together by circumstances outside of school (i.e., acquired infection by different setting and source)
Close school building, transition to remote learning
School opens post investigation, classrooms remain closed for 14 days
Close At least 2 cases?not linked but school building, exposure confirmed for each outside transition to of school setting remote learning
School opens post investigation, classrooms remain closed for 14 days
Link unable to be determined
Close school building, transition to remote learning
Close school for 14 days
sional, •Physical distancing and required facial coverings, •Cleaning throughout the day and nightly disinfecting, and •Clear communication with families and school community. If a student or teacher is feeling sick, they are required to stay home and, if their symptoms are consistent with COVID-19, are asked to get tested. If a student begins experiencing symptoms in school, they will be isolated and monitored by a dedicated staff member until they are picked up by their parents or guardians. Staff members who become symptomatic at school are asked to immediately leave the building. Whether symptoms begin at home or in school, there will be a clear flow of information to facilitate fast action and prevent spread. A positive case can be reported to a school by a staff member, a parent, or a student. A positive confirmed case will trigger an investigation by the NYC Test + Trace Corps and DOHMH to determine close contacts within the school. Schools will communicate to all families and students within school any time a case is laboratory confirmed. The DOE is working in tight coordination with DOHMH and the NYC Test + Trace Corps to identify, isolate, and prevent spread of COVID-19. In the event that there is a laboratory-confirmed case in a school, all students and teachers in that class are assumed close contacts and will be instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days since their last exposure to that case. Additionally, DOHMH and NYC Test + Trace Corps will begin an investigation into the risk of exposure to the school community and work with the DOE to issue clear guidance and decisions for next steps based on the outcome. For the potential investigative conclusions
outlined above, all decisions to quarantine classrooms or close schools will depend on the facts of each investigation. Whenever a student is isolating or quarantining at home, the expectation is that they continue engaging with learning remotely if they are feeling well enough. If a school is closed, the school will communicate by 6 P.M. on the night before about the status of opening the next morning, based on the status of the investigation. A school building will not reopen without confirmation from public health experts that it is safe. While developing this reopening plan to submit to New York State, the Department of Education consulted with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), NYC Health + Hospitals, the NYC Test + Trace Corps and labor officials. These protocols center the health of our students and staff at the very core of this school year, while pursuing the resumption of in-person learning and educational services. The City will continue to closely monitor health conditions, and if community transmission begins to rise across the boroughs, a decision may be made to close all schools and switch to full-time remote learning.p
No. 29
Buying a Foreclosure: 5 Things to Know BY JANET HOWARD EQUITY SMART REALTY INC
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uying a property out of foreclosure can be a very smart move, financially. But it can also be complicated, expensive, and stressful. Here are 5 things to keep in mind before you take a first step in that direction: Cash or Pre-approval Required Buying a house that has been returned to the lender through foreclosure means dealing with bureaucracy rather than with a motivated seller. Large lenders are notorious for taking their time to approve a contract, even if the offer is for the exact amount specified. Then there's the paperwork, which can seem endless. Most lenders require that prospective buyers have cash on hand, or a pre-authorized loan in place
in order to even submit an offer. There's Little Room for Negotiation Although in certain circumstances there may be an opportunity for some discussion about the price, that is not the norm in a foreclosure. The minimum price is usually written in stone, even during an on-site property auction, and the only direction is
up! The days of buying foreclosures for a song are long past, if indeed they ever really existed. As-Is Condition Means Just That Some buyers specialize in foreclosures while other investors run in the other direction. There are pros and cons, of course, to every transaction. Sage advice is to always
Senate Majority Advances Legislation Penalizing Housing Discrimination
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he Senate Democratic Majority last month advanced legislation to hold real estate professionals accountable for discriminatory housing practices. The bill, S.6874A, sponsored by Senator James Gaughran, penalizes licensed real estate brokers and salespersons by revoking or suspending their licenses, or issuing a fine if they violate the Human Rights Law, which includes housing discrimination. “Housing discrimination and predatory practices will not be tolerated in New York,” Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said. “By advancing this legislation, the Senate Majority is sending a clear message that you will be held accountable for engaging in unfair, discriminatory, and racist housing practices. I applaud Senator Gaughran for sponsoring this legislation and continuing the Senate Majority’s commitment to equal and fair access to housing for all New
Senate Majority Leader Stewart Cousins
Yorkers.” Bill Sponsor, Senator James Gaughran, said, “This legislation will ensure that real estate agents who violate New York's Human Rights Law by “steering” minority families towards certain communities, or other racist practices that deny individuals the dignity of choosing their home and neighborhood, face license revocation. Our nation's soul is in crisis and public officials must speak out against racism and end segregation and discrimination in our
Senator Gaugran
society, once and for all. I thank Leader Stewart-Cousins for her historic leadership in swiftly shepherding passing this bill and fighting for a more fair, and just society.” This legislation, S.6874A, will: Make clear the Department of State is able to revoke or suspend a license, or issue a fine, for violations of the Human Rights Law, which includes the State's prohibitions on housing discrimination. n
pay the fee for a property inspection on a foreclosed property, even if you have experience. A third-party evaluation is especially valuable if the home has been vacant for an extended period of time, if the utilities have been turned off, or if there are extensive visible defects. Foreclosures can be like icebergs: What you see may be nothing compared to what lies below the surface. Also, with the findings in writing, always confirm that your loan commitment and insurance quotes will be honored in spite of the existing condition. continued on page 4
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EQUITY SMART REALTY
Advantages of a Listing Agent ficult task for this type of sale. Before attempting to join this small percentage of those who sell their homes without expert help, consider the advantages of hiring a professional real estate agent.
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efore listing your home for sale, many home sellers are tasked with the decision to hire an agent or make the venture alone. While the FSBO (For Sale By Owner) avenue might save you a little money by avoiding the commission cost of a listing agent, a real-estate transaction is best navigated with the guidance of an expert. Recent data from the National Association of Realtors reveals that only 7% of FSBO attempts were actually successful in 2017. Typically, these sales were made when sellers already had a buyer in mind. Finding the right listing price is considered the most dif-
Setting the Price Choosing a price point is more involved than having a home appraised and asking that amount. In fact, while an appraisal is a good starting point, an expert can access a CMA or comparative market analysis to analyze current trends in the area including what similar homes sell for, current market trends, interest of local buyers, and how long homes are listed. With this important information, a real estate expert can price your home to ensure a profitable sale with a quick turnaround. Suggest Renovations A real estate agent is efficient in finding flaws in your property that may slow down a transaction or effect bids from buyers. For instance, if you live in an area that experiences heavy rain fall, a new roof or air-tight windows and doors may be necessary before listing. Homes for sale in regions with intense summers and brutal winters can benefit from an updated HVAC system. If
Call 888-670-6791 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Downtown Brooklyn
you decide to purchase a new unit, make sure to keep warranty paperwork on hand to pass on to the next owner. Small incentives like this can make the difference between receiving unimpressive offers and making a sale. Be sure to brag about recent upgrades in your listing. Buyers know what they’re looking for, and an agent understands how to advertise your property so they can find it. Dealing with Negotiations Once you have accepted an offer from a home buyer, there is still one roadblock in the way before you head to close. Most offers are contingent on a home inspection, meaning an independent professional will inspect the property for flaws or defects that may otherwise go unnoticed. Keep in mind, some states require you to
disclose information about known problems that may affect the value of your home. If you fail to inform them, you may be held legally responsible for fines and fees or the rescission of a sale. Your real estate agent is an expert on the sometimescomplicated responsibilities that sellers face and can ensure your deal won’t fall through. If unexpected problems are discovered, it’s common for a new offer to be written up. An agent will use his expertise to negotiate with the buyer’s agent to maintain fair terms. Free Consultation Need assistance? We will be happy to meet with you and share our guidance. Schedule an appointment today. call us at 855-7688845. n
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Buying a Fixer-Upper
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f you like HGTV, the idea of buying an old home and turning it into your dream home can seem fun, romantic and the perfect way to get what you’re looking for, maybe even breaking into the neighborhood or suburb you never thought you could afford. While it’s not a bad idea, you should go into such a venture with a clear idea of what a house needs, how much repairs will cost, whether you have the time, skills and tools needed to make those repairs and if this is the kind of investment you want to make. This Old House walked through things people should know. Take a Hard Look at the Numbers Assess what needs to be done, then add up the costs to renovate the property, including the costs of materials and labor. Subtract the costs of renovation from the home’s likely value when you’re done, then take off another 10 percent or so to cover unexpected expenses. That number you’re left with is what you should be willing to pay. Avoid Significant Structural Improvements Major repairs like plumbing and electrical system overhauls, fixing the foundation or extensive roof or wall work are expensive yet rarely raise the value of the house enough to offset renovation costs because they’re invisible repairs. Look for houses
in need of aesthetic improvements — a paint job, new flooring, yardwork, windows, new countertops and so on. These are easier to do, they’re less expensive, and they’re noticeable. Be Prepared to Get Dirty This doesn’t include plumbing, wiring or work that requires expertise if you don’t have it, but for most people, a fixer-upper is only a good deal if they do much of their own labor. Be realistic about how much time you can devote to home improvement and what you’re able to do. If you’re prepared to slowly renovate over several years, that may be a better investment than a house that needs immediate improvement to even be livable.
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Know Where Your Money is Coming From You may be eligible for a renovation loan tied to your mortgage. These loans borrow against the house’s value after the work is completed, and interest is tax-deductible. The FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac offer renovation loans as well. Another option for DIYers is a home equity line of credit. If you're currently embarking on buying a fixer-upper, you may want to contact one of our real estate professionals for more information.Schedule an appointment today by calling 888-670-6791. n
Call Equity Smart Realty at 888-670-6791 for a FREE consultation.
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HOME OWNERSHIP
Hidden Costs: What to Know When Buying a Home
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writing fees, title costs and various other costs. These expenses are typically at least $1,000 but could easily end up costing $5,000 or more based on the loan you are receiving. Since they can be so significant, it's a good idea to receive a full title cost statement a few days prior to closing.
hen purchasing a home, most people focus on what their costs of ownership will be after they close on the sale. While the costs of a mortgage, insurance, taxes, and maintenance need to be accounted for, many people end up overlooking the costs that could occur prior to and during the loan closing. Prior to purchasing a home, there are many unexpected costs that all home buyers need to be aware of: Third Parties The first cost that buyers need to be aware of is the cost of third-party services. When purchasing a new home, most mortgage lenders will require a borrower to order an appraisal and property inspection report. Most buyers will also benefit by hiring an attorney to review the loan documents and handle the closing. While these services are very valuable, they can be quite expensive and could end up costing a few thousand dollars depending on the complexity of the purchase. Buying a home is a huge investment, you want to avoid shortcuts and oversights that may come back to haunt you. Prevention is always better than cure.
Bank Charges Another commonly overlooked expense is the cost of closing with the bank. While mortgage lenders are very forthright with their interest rate offers, they may not always tell you — and sometimes simply don't know — exactly what the total closing costs will be until the deal gets closer to completion. Closing costs with banks will include the origination fees, mortgage points, under-
Tax Bill A significant fee that many home buyers forget to include in their budget is the cost of paying city or state taxes. Depending on what state the home is being bought in, there could be hefty purchase costs, mortgage stamp taxes or transfer fees. In many cases, these fees could cost over one percent of the purchase price, not to mention the ongoing property tax bill after you purchase the home. Overall, buying a new home makes perfect financial sense for many Americans. It's just important that you know what onetime expenses to expect so there are no surprises at the closing table. Getting Assistance Now that you are ready to make the commitment, help is just a phone call away. Call us at 888-670-6791.We are ready to assist! n
Buying a Foreclosure/ continued from page 1 The Need for an Experienced Realtor Navigating the landscape of property foreclosures is a specialty field, and caution is the name of the game. As a prospective buyer of a pre-foreclosure, a short-sale or a foreclosed home, an experienced realtor is your best resource. A real estate professional will help you deal with all timelines and requirements, and has the knowledge and expertise to recommend lenders, inspectors, insurance agents and contractors to help you make a decision. Always Consider Future Value Although the initial price might be right, there are additional variables at play in every real estate transaction. What can you expect in terms of appreciation over the short term? What is the long-term outlook for the neighborhood? Will needed repairs and improvements add to the home's value, or simply bring its condition up to standard? Do you plan to live in the home, or is it strictly for resale? Your trusted real estate professional is the best resource to help you thoroughly evaluate all the information about every foreclosure. Help Is Available We are happy to help and share our insight and experience to help you with the buying process. Schedule an appointment today. Call 888-670-6791.n
August 2020
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17
Workers’ Safety
Labor Unions, UFT, Say NYC Schools are Dangerously Unprepared to Reopen
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n response to growing concerns by the community that city schools are not properly prepared to re-open in September, Senator James Sanders Jr. hosted a community conversation on the subject on Facebook Live on August 26, 2020. All stakeholders including parents, teachers, administrators, students and labor unions were invited to participate, express their concerns and ask their questions. The consensus among the school superintendents from School Districts 27, 28, 29 and 75 as well as the Executive Superintendent for Queens South and the Superintendent of Queens South High Schools was that they would serve the students and ensure the safety of the students to the best of their ability given the resources at their disposal and following the guideline set forth by the Mayor's Office and the NYC Department of Edu-
cation. They remained cautiously optimistic that things would go smoothly. Mayor Bill de Blasio said that all classrooms would be sanitized before schools open and that city inspectors would examine the ventilation systems in all classrooms this week to ensure that fresh air limits the spread of the coronavirus. The mayor also announced that schools can use outdoor spaces, including streets and parks to help with social distancing. In addition, when schools open they will follow a blended model of learning, a mix of in-person days at school and remote-learning days at home. The Labor unions who participated in the discussion Local 372 and the United Federation of Teachers were not so positive. In fact they believe that schools are dangerously unprepared to open in the fall, claiming that the city has no
Editorial credit: Ron Adar / Shutterstock.com
real concrete plan for re-opening safely, and that they are gambling with the student's safety. Shaun D. Francois, President of Board of Education Employees Local 372, said that the schools are not ready to open and that the DOE has not been forthright when it comes to safety conditions. "This is not a
joke," he said. "You are dealing with peoples' kids here, lives here, safety here. This is not trial and error. You don't wait to see what happens and then decide what to do after that. We're not guinea pigs. We have major sanitation issues. They can't even get soap in the dispensers in the bathrooms. If you can't do that, how are you
going to handle something major." The UFT, who was represented at Senator Sanders discussion, by Queens Special Representative Dermot Smyth, said the union has a clear and detailed plan on its website that it wishes the city would follow and that the UFT believes that a staggered reopening of schools instead of a unilateral opening would be a more sensible choice. UFT's Senator Sanders said he would be speaking with the Mayor in the coming days to convey the communities concerns, which included a lack of windows and sinks in schools, a lack of nurses, outdoor learning in neighborhoods where shootings have recently occurred, a lack of preparedness to enforce social distancing among kindergarten age children and students with special needs, and much more. p
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Find Out What Our Firm Can Do For You The Law Firm of Figeroux & Associates. Call us at 718-222-3155.
August 2020
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18
In the News
District Council 9 Donates Climate Jobs and Just to South Jamaica Food Bank Transition Summit
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s the COVID-19 pandemic recedes across Queens, the food insecurity issue remains a threat to public health. District Council 9 donated $2,500 to The Harding Ford Vision Inc. in South Jamaica to help fund essential food programs to serve those in need, including their food pantry and soup kitchen. In addition to District Council 9’s monetary donation, union members volunteered their Saturday, off the job, and the organization’s food pantry. Queens has been one of the areas hardest-hit by COVID19, and District Council 9 continues to give back and provide relief to help neighborhoods get back on their feet. “District Council 9 members and leadership strongly believe that our communities should be at the center of every action we take. Whether we’re
O using our skills for local projects and volunteering in food pantries, District Council 9 strives to better the areas where our members live and work,” District Council 9 Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Azzopardi said. “We are proud to lend a helping hand to The Harding Ford Vision Inc. and become a part of its commitment to providing health and wellness services across New York City at a time when hardworking families need it most.” p
n September 22, 2020, from 9am-6pm, the virtual Climate Jobs and Just Transition Summit will bring together labor leaders, union climate activists, environmental and environmental justice advocates, clean-energy developers, policymakers, and scientists who want to build the clean-energy economy of tomorrow with strong union jobs. The Summit features speakers and panelists from across the country and around the world. Speakers will discuss the many ways that climate change and inequality are inextricably linked, identify specific opportunities for bold climate action and building new industries, while engaging in a holistic conversation about just transition for
workers in fossil fuel industries and their communities. At a time that calls for public investment on a scale not seen since the Great Depression, let’s ensure that we’re investing in the economy of the future. Let’s make sure that we take action at a scale climate science demands. Let’s take on three crises at once: the Covid19 pandemic and resulting economic crisis, the climate crisis, and the crisis of extreme inequality that cannot be ignored. Register at www.climatejobsny.orgp
New Relief Fund for NYC's Commercial Sanitation Workers Building on the Labor Counts! Census 2020 campaign from 2018-2020, Labor Votes! will focus on educating, engaging and facilitating union members’ and their households’ ability to cast their ballot during the 2020 and 2021 elections. Labor Votes! is the member-to-member political program of the NYC Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO. Visit: actionnetwork.org/campaigns/labor-votes
Union Asks FL Retirees to Get Involved in Transit Funding, Hazard Pay Fight
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WU Local 100 is looking to harness the power of NY's Florida retirees to
show Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott the wisdom of voting in favor of government support for mass transit and for hazard pay for frontline workers, including the union's members. New York's retirees in the Sunshine State are a powerful political force — because they are solid citizens and they vote. New York's two Senators are already on board, but need a few "red state" Senators to join them. TWU Local 100 President Tony Utano and Retiree Association Director Mike Tutrone are asking NY's Florida retirees to send an email, or call, Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, and tell them that as a Floridian you support the $32 billion in transit funding and hazard pay for our essential worker heroes in Florida and all over America who kept the lights on, the food shelves stocked and trains and buses moving. Share with any Florida union retirees you know!p
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eamsters Local 813 and ALIGN NY announced a new $30,000 relief fund to support New York City’s commercial sanitation workers impacted by COVID-19. Commercial sanitation workers collect trash and recycling from businesses across the city. At the height of the pandemic, they stayed on the job so that essential businesses could continue operating, exposing themselves to the virus. But as more and more economic sectors shut down, many of these workers either lost their jobs or saw their hours severely curtailed. The relief fund grows out of years of advocacy and organizing by the or-
ganizations alongside sanitation workers. The job is the fifth most deadly in the country and many workers are forced to work off the books, without benefits and protections, or for substandard wages. The Commercial Sanitation Worker Relief Fund will provide monetary, food, and other support for impacted workers. While the fund is beginning with $30,000 provided by a generous donor, organizers are hoping to grow that amount.p
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August 2020
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Jobs & Recession Losing Your Job or Getting Furloughed/ continued from page 1 Review materials and ask questions Carefully read through all materials provided to you upon your separation. Ask about severance, bonuses/commissions, your last paycheck, unused vacation time pay, health insurance, retirement plan, and other benefits. Also, find out your actual termination date (for unemployment benefits), and see if you’re eligible to be rehired—and how that might affect severance. Use all available resources If your employer offers help with job placement, counseling, or any other resources, be sure to take advantage of them. For example, you may have access to outplacement services, accrued paid time off, and unemployment insurance and/or medical coverage through COBRA. Keep track of your log ins Write down your usernames and passwords for your retirement plan, health insurance
plan, and any other accounts associated with your employer, so you don’t lose track of them. Ask for a letter of recommendation Assuming you’re leaving on good terms, and your manager is willing to give you a letter of recommendation or an endorsement, now is the time to make sure you have it in hand. Also ask for copies of performance reviews. File for unemployment benefits While the process may feel uncomfortable or even disheartening at first, be sure to take advantage of unemployment benefits (if available to you), and file with your state’s office as soon as possible. Filing for unemployment benefits While each state sets its own eligibility guidelines, to qualify for unemployment insurance, you generally must: •Be unemployed through no fault of your own – For most states, this means you must
have separated from your last job due to a lack of available work. •Meet your state’s wage and work requirements – Your wages earned or time worked is generally based on a period that includes the first 4 out of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before the time your claim is filed. •Meet any additional state requirements – Find details for your state’s program at CareerOneStop, a website sponsored by the US Department of Labor.
To apply for unemployment benefits, you must file a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked. Depending on the state, claims may be filed in person, by phone, or online. Important note about Covid19 and unemployment benefits: Federal law allows significant flexibility for states to pay unemployment insurance benefits in multiple scenarios related to COVID-19, such as when: •An employer temporarily
ceases operations due to COVID-19, preventing employees from coming to work. An individual is quarantined with the expectation of returning to work after the quarantine is over. •An individual leaves employment due to a risk of exposure or infection or to care for a family member. •In addition, federal law does not require an employee to quit to receive benefits due to the impact of COVID-19.p Source: US Department of Labor
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Choose 3 Optional Topics Introduction to Constitutional Law Introduction to Diversity, Inclusion & Equality Introduction to Consumer Advocacy How to Run for NYC City Council How to Run for NYS Assembly or Senate Introduction to Landlord & Tenant Law Introduction to Workplace Health & Safety Introduction to Negotiation & Effective Communication
PLUS: Mandatory Citizenship & Labor Issues Clinic Presented by:
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August 2020
20
Know Your Rights
Domestic Violence Doesn't
Take a Holiday Break BY JANET HOWARD
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he holiday season will be arriving faster than we think. Nearly everybody will be busy with friends and family. For some other people, the holidays are just another reason to remain in isolation. They're not hiding by choice though. They live in isolation out of fear for their safety. That's because unlike friends and families, domestic abuse doesn't stop and take a break during the holidays. Unless a victim does something about it, domestic abuse can continue from Thanksgiving until far beyond New Year's Day. Defining Domestic Abuse Each state has its own definition of domestic abuse. They're in general agreement that it can consist of a single isolated incident or a pattern of harassing, threatening, intimidating,
or violent behavior toward intimate or former intimate partners, household members or family members. Gender and sexual preference are irrelevant. Some typical examples of domestic abuse would be emotional, psychological, physical, and sexual aggression along with financial exploitation. Domestic Violence Orders A court order commonly known as an order of protection, a domestic violence or restraining order can be sought and entered when a person has been a victim of domestic abuse. A court might even enter an order if an individual has a reasonable fear of domestic violence. Along with other protections, the rules operate to prevent an abuser from contacting a protected person either directly or indirectly by phone, email, or through a third party. The orders can also prohibit the abuser from coming near the home, place of
employment or school of any protected person. Any violation of an active domestic violence order can be prosecutable in the criminal courts. Conviction comes with the possibility of a jail sentence. Victims of physical or sexual abuse need only dial 911. When the abuser is under arrest, arrangements can be made for an appropriate order and then leaving. By moving, the risk of further domestic violence is reduced drastically. It's not going to be easy, but it's likely to provide a victim and his or her children an opportunity to heal both physically and emotionally. Resources are out there for victims of domestic violence. A trusted friend, relative, police officer, or attorney can get you pointed in the right direction. They all want to see you and your children healthy and happy again.
Immigrants and Domestic Violence Immigrants in the US. have the right to live life free of abuse. Due to the victim’s immigration status, abusive partners have additional ways to exert power and control over their victims. If you are an immigrant or refugee in an abusive relationship, you may face unique issues that make it hard to reach out for help. A specialized immigration attorney should always be your first point of contact when it comes to immigration questions and concerns. You can also listen to
Ask the Lawyer Radio Program on WVIP 93.5FM on Thursdays, 10pm-11pm and Sundays, 11pm to 12am. The program provides great information and also an opportunity for a FREE, no obligation legal consultation. The number to call is 855-768-8845. You can also visit www.askthelawyer.us Domestic violence is against the law regardless of one’s immigration status. Be a loving family member, good friend, and caring neighbor: please share this informationp
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August 2020
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21
Old & New Immigrants: Their Rights
Immigrant Workers are Essential to the United States Postal Service BY MELISSA CRUZ
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he United States Postal Service (USPS) will play an outsized role in the 2020 presidential election, as more states focus on mail-in voting to help curb the spread of the coronavirus at polling places. Central to USPS’ work are the staff members who sort, process, and deliver our mail—through “snow, rain, heat, and gloom of night.” And many of those essential workers are foreign-born. According to data from the Institute for Immigration Research at George Mason University, over 12% of all USPS workers are immigrants. Many of the positions at the postal service have citizenship requirements, so around 85% of immigrant USPS workers are also naturalized U.S. citizens. This follows a trend of immigrants working in essential
jobs across America—USPS being no exception. The breakdown of foreignborn USPS workers is: •15% of postal services sorters, processors, and machine operators are immigrants. •5% of postal service clerks are immigrants. •7% of mail carriers are immigrants. It’s estimated that as many as half of all ballots during the 2020 presidential election will be cast by mail. If voting trends remain steady and turnout increases as predicted, some 80 million ballots will make their way to post offices this fall, double the amount in 2016. The immigrant voting bloc has increased too—1 out of every 10 voters is a naturalized U.S. citizen. More voters—at least threequarters—will have the opportunity to receive a mail-in ballot for this election due to
the pandemic. That’s more than at any other point in U.S. history. That’s why supporting USPS—and the native- and foreign-born people that work for the institution—is so important. USPS has come under attack in recent months, as the Trump administration threatened to refuse funding over baseless allegations of voter
fraud. Congressional leaders have so far failed to secure funding for the postal service in any of the coronavirus relief packages. A bill that would inject $25 million in emergency funding to the postal service passed the U.S. House of Representatives on August 22, but its fate at the Senate appears grim. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, a recent appointee of
President Trump, agreed to roll back several measures that had slowed mail down considerably after weeks of public pressure. Other recent changes—such as removing mail collection boxes and sorting machines—will not be reversed. Immigrants will be integral to the 2020 election—both as voters and USPS employees. Our political leaders would do well to remember both.p
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August 2020
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Conversations
Should Police Unions Have Less Power? New Polling Data Suggests Yes
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he Center for Union Facts (CUF) released new polling data on the public perception of police unions. The polling is part of CUF’s ongoing national education campaign surrounding police unions — and their collective bargaining agreements — that protect bad cop behavior and fight most reform efforts. The campaign website can be seen at PoliceUnionFacts.com. Key polling takeaways include*: •68 percent of respondents believe it is more important to make it easier to get bad cops off the street than to protect all cops; •62 percent of respondents believe police union powers should be reduced; •34 percent of respondents
would be less likely to vote for a candidate who has been supported by police unions. It’s no wonder the survey found that more than 60 percent of people believe police unions should have their power reduced. As a recent opinion piece from CUF’s communications director argues, “Police unions consistently fight for collective bargaining agreements that
make it hard to hold bad officers accountable and keep disciplinary records hidden from the public. ” For one, many police union CBAs include lengthy appeals processes. This means a “stunningly high percentage” of officers that are fired for misconduct actually end up getting rehired. One study found that 88 percent of police collective bargaining agree-
ments “contained at least one provision that could thwart legitimate discipline.” That included limiting “officer interrogations after alleged misconduct,” mandating “the destruction of disciplinary records,” and limiting “the length of internal investigations.” Imagine if civilians were subject to similar rules? Police officers would undoubtedly be up in arms — and rightfully so. But their unions don’t seem to mind the double standard. Many even have a history of fighting laws or reform efforts that would promote transparency.p *The survey was live on July 2931, 2020 and was conducted from an online sample of 1,004 adults 18 years of age and older.
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Columbia University Frontline Workers Reach Contract Agreement
A
fter months of negotiations, TWU Local 241 workers at Columbia University this week reached an agreement that includes fair wages, essential bonuses, and most importantly, no new increases to healthcare costs. These frontline, essential employees — custodians, safety officers, groundskeepers, waste management and other trades workers — had previously voted to authorize a strike unless CU's administration backed off on their demand to increase members' healthcare costs in the middle of a pandemic. Thanks to all who called and emailed the administration in support of Columbia workers!p
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August 2020
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Love, Health & Travel
Dividing Your Assets During a Divorce: What Every Couple Needs to Know BY JANET HOWARD
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ne of the most challenging aspects of divorce is the division of assets. When you and your partner choose to separate, you'll need to physically divide the things you own. If you purchased a lot of items together, including things like furniture or vehicles, you may find that it's a bit time-consuming to separate your assets. Unfortunately, this is something that needs to be done. Whether you were together for one year or several years, chances are you've accumulated some shared items that should be divided. When you and your partner are ready to start the process of dividing your assets, there are a few things you should know. Be Honest First off, make sure you're honest about marital assets. This
means you can't try to hide or steal things from your shared marriage. If there are items you acquired together, you need to make sure you give your partner a fair shot at claiming the item as something they want. When you cannot agree on who gets a specific item, it will typically be sold and the funds will be divided. While separating your belongings can be difficult, it's important to focus on dividing things as fairly and evenly as possible. If neither one of you wants a particular item, such as a dresser or a set of dishes, consider selling or donating the item. Document Everything If your partner says you can have an item, make sure you document this. You should also be clear when a particular item is something that only belongs to one of you. For example, if your husband inherited
a piece of property from his grandmother, that would typically belong to him and not be considered marital property. Similarly, if you owned a business before you got married, this might not be considered marital property. Make sure you have documentation for items you do not plan to share and speak with your lawyer about the laws in your state regarding marital assets. Stay Focused When you and your partner
are ready to start separating your belongings, you may feel anxious, stressed, or upset. You may feel tempted to continue an argument or say something mean. Avoid this. Try to stay focused on the job at hand, which is dividing your belongings. You don't need to talk about the separation or the divorce at all. Your only task is to separate your things. Staying focused will help you complete the process as quickly as possible.
No matter what your feelings surrounding the divorce are, you may find that hiring a mediation specialist is beneficial. In some cases, your attorney may act as a mediator who can help you and your partner divide your belongings in a way that is fair and agreeable. When you're ready to start the divorce process, reach out and schedule a consultation so you can get the assistance you need.p
August 2020
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Love, Health & Travel
Ways to Manage COVID-19 Related Anxiety BY LINDA N.
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radually life is getting back to the 'new normal'—wearing facial clothing, social distancing, and temperature monitoring. States have reopened, and businesses have started operating slowly but steadily. In a few weeks, over 700 thousand students in New York, will return to school readiness for the 2020-2021 school year. Surprisingly, rather than feel relieved, people find themselves feeling quite anxious. The nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath crisis has increased the exhibition of mental health issues among the general population, especially among frontline responders, with some people experiencing increased anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. What is Anxiety? – Case Study Imagine a 47-year-old New Yorker with two children
under the ages of 10 years, sheltered in-place for the past four months. She knew members of the community that passed away from COVID-19 during the peak of the pandemic. Although the danger is no longer looming, the presence still lingers. Even more than this, she is worried about the mounting bills, since the government's financial support has drastically reduced. With the hope of additional support in the future, her sixyear and eight-year-old-kids are expected to return to a blended learning model by fall. She is also worried about ensuring that they don't fall behind in their academic performance while keeping them safe. On top of this, the housing moratorium in the State of New York will expire in September, meaning she has to start considering moving out of New York if she is unable to find cheaper accommodation for her family. While in thought, she noticed some tightness in her
chest and an increase in breathing. This event has happened a couple of times in the past few weeks. During a virtual medical consultation, she reported feeling suffocated, unable to fall asleep or stay asleep for longer than three hours, decreased appetite, and low energy at home. Her Primary Care Provider (PCP) referred her to a psychiatrist, who gathered additional complaints about the previous symptoms shared with her PCP during the virtual intake interview. For instance, she reported always worrying about things all her life, though
without any need for psychiatric management. She had experienced an acute panic attack in the past after a house fire accident. There was no evidence of confusion or incidents of hallucinations during the interview. The clinical diagnosis was acute panic attacks and worsening of generalized anxiety disorder. In a webinar hosted by Mental Health America, using existing methods for managing anxiety about germs and other psychological distress symptoms as a case study, there were guidelines recommended by experts working
in the field about coping with COVID-19 related anxieties. They used Agoraphobia and Germaphobia as forms of anxiety disorders related to COVID-19. Karen Lynn Cassiday, Ph.D. and colleague Keith Bredemeier Ph.D., explored the manifestations, causes, and treatment of the disorders. Anxiety-Driven Responses According to Dr. Karen Lynn Cassiday (Ph.D.), certified trainer in the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, & Clinical Fellow of the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, she noted that '…our mind is wired to pay attention to threats, negative news'. Hence, mental health problems develop from over heightened awareness and focus on danger around us, including the immediate environment. She suggested changing your focus, with the explanation that typically, there are three primary responses to feelings of threat: fight, freeze, or flight responses. Each of these responses relates to perspective. Feelings of anger and fear drive an individual's 'fight response' state. When the individual focuses on information continued on page 25
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Love, Health & Travel forms of responses affect the population's mental health.
Manage Stress/ continued from page 8 that justifies their feeling of anger or fear, it results in anxiety." An example is an outrage from public-face-mask wearing advocates vs. noncompliers. For those with feelings of outrage and anger towards others with opposing views, anxiety arises from thinking about how people's non-compliance impacts public health or who should dictate how to live. Such feelings create stress, which only tolerance can solve, according to Dr. Karen, "…we need to be tolerant; no two of us is exactly alike." For other people, they find themselves 'feeling stuck. This response is the 'freeze response.' According to the expert, for persons in this category of response pattern, it often accompanies other existing mental health issues, resulting in the person appearing undecided and unable to do anything during this period. She explained that it is essential to try to understand that "we can't eliminate risk or protect the population," so
there are things that cannot be avoided, so people need to learn how to manage such situations. The last type of response is 'flight,' examples as a post COVID response include people moving to a less populated area and ordering things online rather than going to the stores. Unfortunately, such actions sometimes result in people living less than a healthy lifestyle, losing valuable opportunities due to the fear of interaction. She suggested that ultimately, "people should find a balanced way to socialize, bearing in mind that while adults can manage isolation to an extent, children cannot thrive in isolation. " All these
Factors that Reinforce Anxiety Over time, research shows that there are reinforcing factors to feelings of anxiety. Among these were a negative reinforcement, which often happens when people dwell on things that cause them to be anxious and feed these negative emotions. Another factor is being intolerant of uncertainty, typically exhibited when people don't like surprises and would galvanize into action to ensure that they minimize the uncertainties. The expert explained that such persons want to 'play it safe,' sometimes "taking a safety strategy and taking action, which can sometimes become irrational." Managing Anxiety During Post-COVID 19 Pandemic Among the various suggestions discussed as ways of coping with the pandemic's stress and anxiety, three methods, mentioned as better alternatives to managing concerns compared to problematic habits such as compulsive
shopping, comfort-eating, substance use, increased alcohol consumption include: Addressing treatment for persons exhibiting clinically diagnosed symptoms of panic attacks, fear of feeling unsafe in the environment (agoraphobia), or fear of germs (germaphobia), Keith Bredemeier, Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Director of Research Training Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety discussed how exposure therapy used as a treatment method—explaining the in vivo, imaginal or interoceptive exposure methods as treatment options. According to him, the treatment option is influenced by the patient's preference and presenting symptoms. However, for members of the general population, without a clinical diagnosis of an anxiety disorder, experiencing symptoms can make them live an unhealthy lifestyle. In addition to engaging in regular exercises, eating a healthy diet, having an adequate sleep, two additional strategies to overcome anxiety recommended are practicing gratitude, and developing good humor.
In practicing gratitude, journaling is a key technique. Writing down what you are grateful for at the end of each day is therapeutic. When practiced over time, the benefits are immense. Experts recommend,"…focus on specific things, small ones per day with an actual event and stay with it for a period…" Developing good humor: to successfully achieve this therapy, practice mindful meditation, find your funny in your pandemic situation, watch comic movies or read funny books, ask people around you "what is the funniest thing that happened to you today." Ensure you curb sarcasm but focus on "having a good laugh." Our perception influences how we process events, and anxiety is also a product of an individual's perception of risk. It is worth realizing that chances are personal, changing, and evolving. To curtail stress, we need social support, and that is the reason social distancing takes a toll if not well managed, but there are ways to thrive, despite the circumstances.p
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August 2020
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Elections 2020
How to Make Sure Your Vote Counts In November your ballot in the mail until just before the election. If it arrives with less than a week to go, call your local Board of Elections or municipal clerk immediately to find out what your options are. You may be able to drop off the ballot rather than mailing it in, and you should also still have the option to vote in person, either on or before Election Day. If you’re worried about the safety of voting by mail, there are plenty of administrative and legal protections for mailed-in ballots, and steep penalties for those who tamper with election mail.
BY AMY DACEY THE CONVERSATION
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he time is now! Voting in the presidential election will begin in many states in just a few weeks – as early as Sept. 4 in North Carolina. Every state’s regulations and procedures are different, so it is vital that you understand the requirements and opportunities to vote where you live. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready to vote, and that your vote will count. Check your registration Make sure that you are registered to vote at your current address. You may not have voted in a while. You may have moved or changed your name. You may have forgotten when you last registered to vote. Calling or visiting your secretary of state’s office or local Board of Elections may be a good place to start. You can also visit Vote.org, Rock the Vote, I am a voter or the U.S. Vote Foundation, all nonprofit, nonpartisan websites providing lots of detailed information about voting rights, registration and the process of voting. It took only a few minutes online for me to verify my own registration and voter ID number. The federal government offers lots of useful voting information, too.
Not registered? Register now! If you’re not registered – whether you have never registered or your registration is out of date – there is still time. September 22 is National Voter Registration Day, when millions of individuals register to vote. Each state has its own process and deadlines, and you may be able to register online through Vote.org, which can take less than two minutes. If you’d rather register to vote on paper, download and print a simple form from the federal government, which asks you to provide some personal information, like your name and address. The instructions give state-specific details and provide the mailing address you need to send the form to.
While you’re at it, encourage your friends to register too. Make a plan to vote Not everyone who is registered to vote actually casts a ballot. You’re more likely to actually vote if you make a plan. You’ll need to find out when to vote in person and where to do it. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 – but different cities and towns have different voting hours. Many communities have several polling places, and you need to go to the right one, depending on where you live. Make sure you know where to go. In some places you can vote in person for some number of days ahead of Election Day, often at the main municipal
government building. Your town office – and its website – will likely have the dates and location information prominently displayed. If you don’t want to vote in person, either because of your work or personal schedule, or because of the pandemic, think about voting by mail. Some states will mail you a ballot automatically, either because they conduct their elections by mail or because they have made special provisions to do so as a result of the pandemic. In other states you have to request one – and sometimes you need to provide a specific excuse for wanting to avoid inperson voting. If you’re voting by mail, you may need to pay postage to send your ballot back in. Call your local election office and ask how much you’ll need – and get the right postage. You can order postage online for free delivery – and splitting the cost of a book of stamps is another great opportunity to share voting with a friend. In 2016, nearly one-quarter of U.S. votes were cast by mail. Research and evidence show that it is safe and reliable – though with large numbers of people expected to vote by mail this year, it’s best to mail your ballot back as early as possible to make sure it has plenty of time to arrive before it needs to be counted. The U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing your ballot at least a week before the deadline. Large amounts of mail also might mean you don’t get
Set reminders to vote Many people set reminders for all sorts of important things: medical appointments, friends’ birthdays, bill payment dates and so on. Add voting to your calendar – including alerts to request a mail-in ballot, to vote early, to mail your ballot and certainly for Election Day itself. Tell your friends and family Every vote that is cast is a vital contribution to the nation’s future. Encourage everyone you know to vote. You can even invite people to your calendar events – or share your plans on social media, in an email to family and friends. Send texts to people you know. Pledge to call 10 people and ask them to vote, and ask each of them to call 10 more people. Do not be intimidated or afraid If you make your plan and follow the requirements of your state and local government, you can cast your ballot and be certain that your vote will count. You may encounter people claiming there could be “widespread” voter fraud or that the election is somehow “rigged.” But the biggest problem is that so few people actually vote: In 2016, 40% of eligible American voters didn’t cast a ballot. It is your right to vote. Exercise that right proudly and make your voice heard.p
Amy Dacey is the Executive Director of the Sine Institute of Policy and Politics, American University
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