ATTENTION: The Future of Stop & Frisk Discussion; 11/12; FG

WHEN: Tuesday, November 12, 2013
7:00PM

WHERE: Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church
85 South Oxford Street
(between Lafayette Avenue and Fulton Street)

WHAT: Panel discussion and Q & A regarding the future of Stop & Frisk

CM Letitia James: “Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk”

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
AUGUST 12, 2013

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James: “Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk” 
Federal Judge Rules Stop and Frisk Violated Constitutional Rights of Thousands of New Yorkers

(New York, NY)— Today, Manhattan Federal District Court Judge Shira A. Scheindlin ruled in Floyd vs. the City of New York that the New York City Police Department (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy violated the constitutional rights of tens of thousands of New Yorkers.

In the decision, Judge Scheindlin recognized that police officers have systematically stopped people without any objective reason to suspect them of criminal behavior, and thus violation individual’s Fourth Amendment rights.

In January 2013, Judge Scheindlin ruled that the NYPD’s policy of stopping individuals suspected of trespassing outside private buildings in the Bronx was also unconstitutional. This was a practice common in private residences participating in the Trespass Affidavit Program (TAP). Judge Scheindlin ruled in Ligon vs. the City of New York that reasonable suspicion of trespassing was necessary for such arrests, while acknowledging that the department must determine where to draw the line between justified and unjustified stops. The court ruled that the NYPD must create a formal policy ‘specifying the limited circumstances in which it is legally permissible to stop a person outside a TAP building on a suspicion of trespass’.

Similarly, in today’s ruling, Judge Scheindlin called for a federal monitor to oversee departmental reforms, and stated her intention to assign an independent attorney to monitor the NYPD’s compliance with the Constitution moving forward.

“Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk in New York, and preserving the liberties of Black and Latino youth throughout this City,” said Council Member Letitia James. “It is imperative that the administration and the police department move to make transparent the rationale for street stops, as well as define long-used terms such as ‘furtive movements’. I hope that following these federal rulings, the administration moves towards making the necessary changes to facilitate a healthier relationship with minority communities.”

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CM James Discusses NYPD Stop And Frisk Policy On MSNBC

See Council Member Letitia James on MSNBC's "All In W/ Chris Hayes" discussing the administration's stop, question, and frisk policy.

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

ATTENTION: Brooklyn Museum Presents "Save Our African American Treasures"; 7/20; 11AM

Save Our African American Treasures: A National Collections Initiative of Discovery and Preservation

On Saturday, July 20th, the Brooklyn Museum will join the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture to present a daylong program to help Brooklyn residents identify and preserve items of historical and cultural significance tucked away in attics, closets, and basements. The event features presentations, hands-on activities, and preservation tips.

Participants may bring up to three personal items for a 15-minute, professional consultation with experts on how to care for the items. Specialists will serve as reviewers, not appraisers, and will not determine items’ monetary value. Objects such as books, papers, ceramics, and textiles no larger than a shopping bag can be reviewed (furniture, carpets, firearms, and paintings are excluded).

The Treasures program also features fun and informative presentations throughout the day, including:
- Preservation Presentations: Learn how to preserve clothing and textiles, family photographs, and papers. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.
- Hands-on Preservation: Gain hands-on experience in proper preparation and packing of letters, garments, and photographs for preservation, storage, and presentation.

For more information, please call the Save Our African American Treasures information line at (877) 733-9599.

WHEN: Saturday, July 20, 2013
11AM- 6PM

WHERE: 200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, NY 11238

ATTENTION: Tell Your Representative To Protect Voting Rights

The Supreme Court has made a major decision that impacts voting rights for every American.

In striking down Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act – but leaving Section 5 untouched – there is no longer a mechanism in place to prevent states with a history of voter disenfranchisement from enacting such laws.

While this is a setback, it is by no means the end of the game. The Supreme Court's decision gives Congress complete authority to ensure no person is denied the right to vote.

Communities of color, and young, women, elderly, and disabled voters are at risk. Tell Congress to take immediate action to protect the voting rights for millions of Americans. Sign the NAACP petition today.

ATTENTION: CLACC-C Cultural Summer Camp

The Carlos Lezama Archives and Caribbean Cultural Center Inc. (CLACC-C) is pleased to announce their 2013 full-time Cultural Summer Camp for boys and girls, ages 7-15 years old.

CLACC-C is offering the art of steel pan, costume design, stilt walking, poetry, nutrition, Caribbean folk dancing, and more.

The site of the camp will be based at Medgar Evers College Preparatory School at 1186 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225. More information is available at (718) 773-4052.

CM James Comments on Departure of Medgar Evers College President

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
JANUARY 31, 2013

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James Comments on Departure of Medgar Evers College President

(New York, NY)— Under the leadership of Dr. William L. Pollard— who became president of Medgar Evers College [of The City University of New York (CUNY)] in August 2009— Medgar Evers College cut back on spending for student services. Specifically, media reports cite that professors stated a writing center for students was eliminated, and tutoring service cut back. The dismissal or demotion of professors was also sharply criticized. This followed a no-confidence vote— made in December 2010— in which a significant number of the CUNY’s tenured professors expressed serious concerns about the state of the college following the elimination of the Center for NuLeadership on Urban Solutions, a think tank run by academically pedigreed formerly-incarcerated experts focused on prison-reform policies.

Council Member Letitia James and other elected officials have supported students and faculty in their efforts to address existing issues with the Medgar Evers administration. In 2011, students presented a petition to the administration. The students were primarily concerned with actions they believed were contrary to “the mission of [the] predominately Black institution of higher learning” and “that seek[ed] to dismantle the college's community-based centers.”

“I am confident that Medgar Evers College will be able to re-focus full attention on providing their students with the tools they need to succeed,” said Council Member Letitia James.

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BK District Attorney Drops Charges Against Man Beaten By NYPD In Jewish Center

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
OCTOBER 22, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

Brooklyn District Attorney Dismisses Charges Against Ehud H. Halevi
Video Shows Homeless Man Was Beaten By Police Officers

(Brooklyn, NY)— On Monday, October 8, 2012, NYPD was contacted about a man who was sleeping in the lounge of the ALIYA Institute, a synagogue and outreach center, on East New York Avenue. The homeless man, Mr. Ehud H. Halevi, had permission to sleep in the center by the Director of ALIYA, Rabbi Moshe Feiglin. Video shows that two officers from the 71st Precinct approached Mr. Halevi and attempted to place him under arrest. In the process, Mr. Halevi appears to have been pepper-sprayed, and was repeatedly punched violently. Other officers later entered the center to subdue Mr. Halevi.

On October 15, 2012, Council Member Letitia James joined other elected officials in denouncing this incident of police brutality. Today, the Office of Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes announced that charges were dropped against Mr. Halevi.

"I applaud District Attorney Hynes for quickly reviewing the evidence of the case, and dismissing the charges against Mr. Halevi," said Council Member Letitia James.

Council Member Letitia James is a co-sponsor of the package of legislative bills known as the Community Safety Act that would address the stop-and-frisk policy, and appoint an independent Inspector General to oversee the NYPD.

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CM James Comments on NYC Board of Health Passage of 'Soda Ban'

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
September 13, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

COUNCIL MEMBERS LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON NYC BOARD OF HEALTH PASSAGE OF ‘SODA BAN’ 

(New York, NY)— Today, New York City’s Board of Health voted 8-1 to ban the sale of sugary drinks over 16 ounces, amid strong criticism from elected officials and others that the ban would be both ineffective and selectively-applied. Council Member Letitia James has been a vocal criticizer of the plan, and put forth alternative proposals to the administration.

"Unfortunately— but unsurprisingly—the Mayor's proposal to ban sugary drinks over 16 ounces has been approved by the Board of Health despite the fact that 60% of NYC residents don't agree with it. Instead of limiting choices, this administration should be working with our community groups and education officials to expand physical fitness activities and teach our kids the benefits of a healthy lifestyle at an early age," said Council Member Letitia James.

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CM JAMES COMMENTS ON NYPD DISCIPLINE OF OFFICERS USING HATEFUL LANGUAGE ON FACEBOOK

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
August 23, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON NYPD DISCIPLINE OF OFFICERS USING HATEFUL LANGUAGE ON FACEBOOK

New York, NY— In December 2011, Council Member Letitia James and colleagues expressed outrage at the offensive and disrespectful comments made by some individuals affiliated with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) on the social-networking website “Facebook”.

Commenters on the Facebook group entitled “No More West Indian Day Detail” were found referring to parade participants as “animals”, “savages”, and “filth”; and the parade overall as a “scheduled riot”. Today, the New York Daily News reported that 17 officers were disciplined for their remarks— with 4 officers facing departmental trials on misconduct charges, 6 officers facing command disciplines, and 7 officers receiving lower levels of punishment.

“These comments were deeply offensive, specifically to the elected officials who every year work with the NYPD to address safety concerns related to the West Indian Day Parade,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I commend the NYPD for addressing this unacceptable behavior.”

The 2011 West Indian American Day Parade saw a total of nine shooting victims, with four of those victims shot along the parade’s route. Those who lost their life include Denise Gay, 56, who was shot while sitting on a stoop with her daughter.

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CMs James & Viverito Call on DOE to Combat Youth Obesity Through Expanded PE in Public Schools

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
August 6, 2012

Contact: Joe Taranto (CM Mark-Viverito): (917) 535-5531 | jtaranto@council.nyc.gov
Aja Worthy-Davis (CM James): (212) 788-7081 | aworthy-davis@council.nyc.gov

COUNCIL MEMBERS MELISSA MARK-VIVERITO AND LETITIA JAMES CALL ON DOE TO COMBAT YOUTH OBESITY THROUGH EXPANDED PHYSICAL EDUCATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS 
LETTER SIGNED BY 34 COUNCIL MEMBERS CALLS ON CHANCELLOR WALCOTT TO BRING PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM UP TO STANDARDS, REDUCE DISPARITIES IN LOW-INCOME COMMUNITIES

(New York, NY)— As the Bloomberg administration promotes its proposed ban on the sale of large sugary drinks, Council Members Melissa Mark-Viverito and Letitia James have spearheaded a letter to New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor Dennis Walcott highlighting deficiencies in the City’s physical education (PE) program. The letter, which was signed by 32 other Council Members, points to several studies indicating that the city’s children, particularly in low-income communities of color, are not receiving the minimum required gym classes, despite the important role that regular physical activity plays in reducing obesity.

“With all the attention being placed on the Bloomberg administration’s proposed soda ban, we felt that there was a larger story to tell about how other policy choices by this administration are contributing to the obesity epidemic in this City,” said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. “The disparities between our city’s neighborhoods when it comes to physical education are unacceptable. We look forward to working with the DOE to achieve a marked improvement in the City’s physical education program, particularly in low-income communities of color.”

“Unlike the administration’s ‘soda ban’, the expansion of physical fitness activities and education in schools will go far to teach the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle from an early age.” said Council Member Letitia James, who has been working with “Let’s Move Brooklyn” (part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s national youth fitness campaign) this summer, speaking at their educational panel as well as hosting the “Brooklyn Olympic Fun Day Events” in Bedford-Stuyvesant last month.

According to a recent New York Times article, one in five city high school students reported not having gym class in an average week. Additionally, none of the 31 elementary schools visited by the NYC Comptroller’s Office last year met New York State standards on PE. And a 2012 study conducted by the NYC Strategic Alliance for Health found only 6 out of 74 elementary schools studied were meeting state requirements.

The New York State Education Department requires that PE classes be held every day for students in grades K to 3, and three times a week for grades 4 to 6, for a minimum of 120 minutes a week; and at least 90 minutes a week for grades 7 and 8. Three gym classes a week are required for grades 7 through 12 in one semester, and twice a week in another.

The communication to the Chancellor requested that his office provide the Council with data on the City’s PE program; clarification on the DOE’s policy on PE in co-located schools; and information regarding the DOE’s strategy to improve PE in schools and reduce PE disparities across neighborhoods.

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Join Community Leaders for March To End Stop & Frisk; 6/17; Harlem

WHAT: Silent March Against Racial Profiling: END STOP AND FRISK!

WHEN: Sunday, June 17, 2012
1:00 PM

WHERE: 110th Street btwn. 5th Avenue and Lenox

CMs Letitia James and Melissa Mark-Viverito Urge City Not To Appeal Federal Lawsuit Regarding Stop-And-Frisk

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
May 17, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081

Council Members Letitia James and Melissa Mark-Viverito Urge City Not To Appeal Federal Lawsuit Regarding Stop-And-Frisk

(New York, NY)— On May 16, 2012, a federal judge granted class-action status to a lawsuit challenging the New York Police Department’s stop-and-frisk policy, saying she was disturbed by the “deeply troubling apathy towards New Yorkers’ most fundamental constitutional rights.”

In 2011, the statistics showed that 87% of the NYPD’s almost 700,000 stop-and-frisks involved Black and Latino persons; only 12% of those stops resulted in arrests, and less than 1% of those stops resulted in an arrest for weapon possession or an otherwise violent crime. Council Member Letitia James has joined many of her colleagues in criticizing the stop-and-frisk policy as one that forges distrust between the department and minority communities.

The NYPD recently disclosed that there have been more than 200,000 stops from January to March of 2012, a number that would exceed previous records if it were to hold steady. The administration had previously taken the position that a court-ordered injunction banning stop-and-frisk would constitute “judicial intrusion”, a position the federal judge strongly disagreed with (calling the City’s attitude about the policy “cavalier”).

“The fact that the NYPD has made some recent reforms, including more training for cops and closer scrutiny from supervisors, would suggest that they recognize that abusive stop-and-frisk policies have no place in a civil society,” said Council Member Letitia James. “These changes are a step in the right direction, but do not go far enough; although they may negate the need for an appeal.”

“We urge the City not to waste precious taxpayer dollars to defend its out-of-control stop and frisk agenda,” said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. “We are not calling for softer policing, but smarter and more effective policing; and stop and frisk has been shown to be an ineffective, wasteful policy. On top of the social costs of damaged police-community relations, we are now facing the fiscal costs of legal challenges against the NYPD for its practices. This week’s court decision was clear: these suspicionless stops are unconstitutional and those who have suffered the humiliation that comes with being stopped and frisked deserve to seek legal recourse as a class. As we seek to enact measures that will strengthen oversight over the police in our city, the courts stand as an important vehicle to hold the NYPD accountable. The City should not be obstructing efforts by plaintiffs to challenge the NYPD’s stop and frisk practices.”

In April 2012, multiple media sources reported that a “working group” has been formed inside New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office, with the purpose of reviewing the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy. Council Member James has further urged Mayor Bloomberg to appoint an independent commission to investigate corruption within the NYPD, and relocate the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau to the NYC Department of Investigations.

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CM James Comments On Equal Pay Day

FIFTY YEARS AFTER THE EQUAL PAY ACT BECAME LAW, AMERICAN WOMEN ON AVERAGE EARN ONLY 77 CENTS FOR EVERY DOLLAR EARNED BY THEIR MALE PEERS

“Even though the Equal Pay Act— a law that guarantees women the same pay as men when performing the same job— was passed almost fifty years ago, America women working full-time still earn only 77 cents for every dollar that men make. Last year I noted that today many families rely on women's earnings, yet the gender wage gap is remains a serious threat to gender equality and pay equity.

Statistics have shown that in New York, the median pay for a woman working full time is $41,570 per year, while the median yearly pay for a man is $50,228. This means that women are paid 83 cents for every dollar paid to men, amounting to a yearly gap of $8,658 between the genders. New York women of color experience greater wage disparities— in one year, the average Black woman earns approximately $12,197 less than all men. For New York’s Latinas, the figure is $18,685 (a number lower than the national average).

The fight for pay equity continues to take place on the federal, state, and city levels. In 2010, I introduced a resolution into the City Council calling upon Congress to pass and the President to sign into law the Paycheck Fairness Act. Today, I ask you sign U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's petition urging Congress to act on the Paycheck Fairness Act (http://tinyurl.com/3vdhm56). President Barack Obama pledged in 2011 to continue to fight for the goals of the legislation. Organizations like A Better Balance continue to promote wage transparency and fair pay in contracting at the state level. I encourage New Yorkers to contact Governor Andrew Cuomo’s office to tell him to support equal pay policies and legislation for all New Yorkers.

The New York State Legislature is currently in the process of reviewing legislation similar to that on the federal level— the New York State Fair Pay Act. The bill would make it an unlawful for an employer to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, and/or national origin through paying different wages to employees. I am working to create legislation on the Citywide level that addresses the issue of pay equity. My efforts began with the help of New York Women’s Agenda in 2009. Although much authority to legislate wage issues lies with the State, I am confident that the New York City Council could pass legislation that eliminates wage-based discrimination, and secures pay equity for women throughout the City.

On this Equal Pay Day working women should know that their government supports them and fights for them against wage-based discrimination. Go to this link to learn more. Lastly, please share with someone special that today— April 17, 2012— is Equal Pay Day.”

 --Council Member Letitia James

CM James Commends NYS Attorney General On Analyzing NYPD’s Stop-and-Frisk Policy

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
April 11, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James Commends NYS Attorney General On Analyzing NYPD’s Stop-and-Frisk Policy

(New York, NY)— On April 11, 2012, multiple media sources reported that a “working group” has been formed inside New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office, with the purpose of reviewing the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy. Reportedly, the working group was formed to analyze data— including ethnic and racial breakdowns of those searched— to determine whether a more comprehensive analysis of the policy is necessary.

The previous comprehensive report completed on stop-and-frisk was done in 1999 by former Attorney General (AG) Eliot Spitzer. Council Member Letitia James— then the Assistant AG overseeing the Brooklyn Regional Office and one of the attorneys working in the AG’s Civil Rights Bureau— worked on that report, which concluded that at the time African American New Yorkers constituted 50% of NYPD stops, Latinos constituted 33% of stops, and White residents constituted 13% of stops.

In 2011, the statistics show that 87% of the NYPD’s almost 700,000 stop-and-frisks involved Black and Latino persons; only 12% of those stops resulted in arrests, and less than 1% of those stops resulted in an arrest for weapon possession or an otherwise violent crime. Council Member Letitia James has joined many of her colleagues in criticizing the stop-and-frisk policy as one that forges distrust between the department and minority communities. 

“I commend Attorney General Schneiderman for looking into the NYPD’s stop-and-frisk policy,” said Council Member Letitia James. “Unfortunately, in the face of widespread criticism and evidence that stop-and-frisk violates the constitutional rights of an overwhelming number of innocent individuals with minimal results, the administration continues to champion this approach. I hope that AG Schneiderman takes action if his investigations mirror the current evidence and data available.”

Council Member James has further urged Mayor Bloomberg to appoint an independent commission to investigate corruption within the NYPD, and relocate the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau to the NYC Department of Investigations.

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CM James Comments On Charges Against George Zimmerman

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
April 11, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James Comments On Charges Against George Zimmerman

 (New York, NY)— On April 11, 2012, Florida special prosecutor Angela Corey announced the state’s intention to charge George Zimmerman for murder in the second degree, in relation to the shooting death of unarmed teen Trayvon Martin. Zimmerman recently surrendered to the Florida State Department of Law Enforcement. Previously, elected officials and social justice advocates nationwide criticized the fact that Mr. Zimmerman remained outside of police custody, with no criminal charges laid against him despite overwhelming evidence.

The tragic murder of Trayvon Martin has struck a chord with many Americans. On March 28, 2012, Council Members Letitia James and Melissa Mark Viverito held a press conference on the steps of City Hall calling for justice for Trayvon, and harsh criticism of ‘Stand Your Ground’ laws nationwide. That same day, the City Council put forth a resolution condemning the senseless shooting of Trayvon, and the inadequate investigation that followed. There have also been a number of similar demonstrations in New York City churches and public parks in the past month.

“What happened to Trayvon was a senseless tragedy,” said Council Member Letitia James. “However, it has begun a national conversation around gun control, racism, and the many faces of violence. The overt and covert ways in which we as a society label young Black men as ‘threatening’ must stop. It is important to recognize that reckless vigilantism is a threat to the safety of us all, and we must adopt a no-tolerance approach. I again extend my condolences to Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton over the loss of their son, and I commend the Florida state special prosecutors on their handling of the case.”

 The wearing of a hooded sweatshirt (in reference to the clothing Trayvon was wearing when he died) has become a symbol of anti-violence and social justice; and a call for the end of the demonization of young men of color.

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ATTENTION: Scholarship Opportunities

Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation:
The qualified applicants must be a high school senior or college student; and/or between the ages of 18-25, and pursuing studies at a vocational or trade school. All applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be a US Citizen and complete the online application no later than the published deadline date (which is May 15, 2012).

The Shawn Carter Scholarship Foundation is unique in that it offers scholarships to single mothers, children who attend alternative schools, students who have earned a GED, and students who have previously been incarcerated, etc. but desire a higher educational opportunity. These groups are generally not the recipients of college scholarships.

The application is available here: http://www.shawncartersf.com/apply/

Nordstrom Scholarship Program
Nordstrom is awarding $10,000 scholarships to 80 outstanding high school students. The Nordstrom Scholarship Program recognizes students across the country for their exceptional scholastic achievement and community involvement.

Those eligible must be high school juniors who plan on applying for financial aid and live and attend school in one of the participating 30 states where Nordstrom currently has a full-line store; have at least a 2.7 GPA (based on a 4.0 scale) throughout high school; volunteer in community services or extracurricular activities; and plan on attending an accredited four-year college or university during the four years over which the scholarship is distributed. The scholarship is paid out in equal installments of $2,500.

The application deadline is May 1, 2012, and those interested may apply here: http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/nordstrom-cares-scholarship

Hispanic Scholarship Foundation/ Macys
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund and Macy's have partnered to provide financial resources to assist outstanding Latino undergraduate students. This scholarship is open to Latino students who are US citizens attending selected universities (see link below). The award amount is $2,500 and will be disbursed in Fall 2012.

Eligible students have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and are enrolled for the 2012-2013 academic year at one of the program's select universities.

The application deadline is May 15, 2012. More information, and the application, is available here: http://www.hsf.net/macys.aspx

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO WEAR HOODIES WEDNESDAY, CALL FOR JUSTICE FOR TRAYVON MARTIN

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
March 26, 2012

CONTACT: Joe Taranto, Council Member Viverito’s Office
(917) 535-5531, jtaranto@council.nyc.gov
Aja Worthy-Davis, Council Member James’ Office
(212) 788-7081, aworthydavis@council.nyc.gov

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO WEAR HOODIES WEDNESDAY, CALL FOR JUSTICE FOR TRAYVON MARTIN

(New York, NY) – This Wednesday, March 28th, New York City Council Members will wear hoodies at an action on the steps of City Hall at 12:30 PM to call for justice for Trayvon Martin. After a brief press conference, participating Council Members and their staff will attend the Council’s Stated meeting in their hoodies. They will also bring Skittles and iced tea, which Trayvon carried as he was shot and killed because he looked “like he [was] up to no good." This action is being coordinated by Council Members Melissa Mark-Viverito and Letitia James, and several Council Members have already confirmed their participation (list in formation).

"The senseless murder of Trayvon Martin is an unspeakable tragedy and his family deserves justice," said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. "Incidents like these only serve as a reminder of how much further we as a society have to go until all people are treated equally. As the 911 calls from that tragic night demonstrate, Trayvon was targeted strictly based on his appearance. The fact that George Zimmerman has not been brought up on any charges only reinforces the cynicism in communities of color about our law enforcement and criminal justice systems. I send my deepest condolences to Trayvon's family and remain hopeful that, with the growing pressure being felt throughout the nation, his killer will be brought to justice. This Wednesday, we will send the message that the City Council will not stand silent against such flagrant injustices, no matter where they occur."

"The sad reality of the Trayvon Martin tragedy is one that plagues urban communities throughout America," said Council Member Letitia James. "People of color, particularly young men of color, are faced with bouts of racism each day. As I zip up my hoodie, sip my iced tea, and snack on some Skittles, I extend my heart to the Martin family and demand justice for Trayvon."

The hoodie has emerged as a symbol to remember Trayvon’s story and the failure of the Sanford Police Department to bring his killer to justice. Last week, Trayvon's parents joined a Million Hoodie March in Union Square and on Friday, nearly 300 Congressional staffers held a "Hoodies on the Hill" protest. Yesterday, congregants in churches across New York City wore hoodies to call for an end to discrimination.

"Wearing a hoodie should not be a death sentence," said Council Member Debi Rose. "Today, we are standing in solidarity with all of the Trayvons, cut down in their prime solely because of how they look and what they wear. The choice of clothing that one chooses to wear should not relegate them to unwarranted search, negative profiling, or the most tragic of outcomes, death. All people of good conscience and a sense of justice must stand to ensure that this type of vigilante justice is stopped now.

“As a parent of two teenage children I am concerned about their safety and this tragic incident underscores my and many other parents fears in the African-American community. It is important we come together as a community, city, and nation, in order to understand why and how this took place so we can stop these calamities from occurring in the future," said Council Member Leroy Comrie. "The attempt to hide behind the ‘Stand Your Ground’ law in this situation is transparent and the profiling that took place in this matter is disturbing. Listening to the chilling 9-1-1 account as Trayvon called for help, compelled me to work with my local Community Council to organize a march and rally this Saturday at 10:00am in Southeast Queens to not only protest, but also to educate our youth about their rights. My hearts and prayers go out to Trayvon Martin and his family in this difficult time and I hope justice will prevail.”

Earlier today, Speaker Christine Quinn announced that she would be introducing a resolution with Council Members Mark-Viverito, James and other colleagues “that will condemn this killing, the weaknesses in its investigation and the lack of an arrest. Our resolution will also call for an examination of stand your ground laws nationwide, including their impact on increasing the flow of illegal guns to New York City.”

"Trayvon Martin has tragically become something far more than a boy who senselessly lost his life. His death has become a cry for us to do more to confront ongoing racism in this country,” said Council Member Brad Lander. “I hope that the local police will make an arrest today, and that the Justice Department will investigate whether this was a hate crime. But more than that: I hope we will all see the need to confront the enduring racial bias that too often persists, so deeply rooted in our personal reactions, our neighborhoods, our workplaces, our policing practices, and our public policies. Let's work to honor Trayvon's memory by doing more to advance Dr. King's dream, toward which we still have so far to go."

"Wearing a hoodie shouldn't be a capital offense" said Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez. "Trayvon's death struck a chord in New York City because we've seen far too many young Black and Latino men killed unjustly. Council Members James and Mark-Viverito have brought the Council together to stand up against this injustice, and I'll be wearing a hoodie with them to show that Trayvon's death will not be forgotten."

"Trayvon's life was cut short at the promising age of 17. Thanks to runaway gun laws, his loved ones will be unable to see him reach his full potential as a scholar or an athlete. His loss reminds us all of the dangers of intolerance, while the inadequate handling of his death by the Sanford City Police Department highlights the need to reform radical gun policies," said Council Member Robert Jackson.

"In the face of this terrible tragedy, we must coalesce and demand justice for the unwarranted death of Trayvon Martin," said Council Member Daniel Dromm. "I would like to express my deepest sympathies to Trayvon's family and call upon local law enforcement to fully and fairly investigate the case because such blatant injustices are not acceptable in our society."

"In this country, we need to have a clear and quick response to profiling and biased murders, whether committed by civilians or police officers,” said Council Member Rosie Mendez. “We demand justice for Trayvon Martin as well as for all New Yorkers who have been subject to profiling."

"The Trayvon Martin incident was a horrible tragedy that never should have happened -- and certainly not in this country," said Council Member Dan Garodnick. "The investigation needs to be swift and comprehensive, and must conclude in a way that ensures that justice is served."

"This madness must stop! We demand justice, before we are forced into desperate means to protect ourselves,” said Council Member Charles Barron. “The Department of Justice should immediately arrest George Zimmerman and begin the prosecution of this case."

“There is no experience worse for a parent than losing a child. For the parents of young Trayvon Martin though, the situation is made more unbearable due to Stand your Ground, outrageous legislation passed by the politicians in Florida. George Zimmerman, the murderer, might remain free because he claims that he felt threatened even though Mr. Martin was unarmed and returning from the store. Without this law, Trayvon might be alive or, at the very least, we could rest assured that justice would prevail. I look forward to standing with my colleagues in the City Council in my hoodie to remember Trayvon Martin and demand justice for his family,” said Council Member Gale A. Brewer.

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A Message from CM James: LGBT Legislative Updates

I would like to make you aware of my recent work on behalf of New York City’s LGBTQ community—

City Council Resolution Calling on the Medical Professionals to Treat and Provide Appropriate Healthcare to Transgender Persons

I have recently introduced a resolution into the New York City Council calling on medical and health professional to treat, and provide appropriate healthcare, to transgender individuals. This resolution follows a statement recently released by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

While the LGBTQ community as a whole experiences greater disparities in relation to access to health insurance and healthcare, there is a specific need for transgender individuals to have access to health plans and services for transgender-related care, as well as for healthcare professionals to receive appropriate training on how to treat transgender patients. ACOG noted a concern for the gynecological health of transgender men, who may still require female (breast and cervical) cancer screenings as well as other forms of care. According the the National LGBT Cancer Network, “Trans men are less likely to get regular medical/gynecological care than heterosexual women or lesbians.” Some trans men have noted feeling healthcare professionals are not aware of available treatment options for transgender persons, not sensitive to their individual preferred pronouns, and/or presumptive concerning their sexual activities. All of these real or perceived issues may prevent transgender individuals from seeking appropriate healthcare.

Furthermore, there is a need to ensure medical and health care providers do not engage in gender identity discrimination, and where necessary refer patients to healthcare professionals that are best able to treat them. The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) has issued clinical guidelines for medical professionals when providing care to LGBT persons. The resolution I introduced into the New York City Council recently, Resolution 1244-2012, urges that medical and health professionals adhere to similar guidelines to provide appropriate healthcare to transgender persons.

Resolution 1244 : http://tiny.cc/bm47aw

City Council Resolution Calling on the NYC Health Department to Repeal Requirement that Transgender Persons Undergo Surgery to alter gender marker of Birth Certificates

As you well know, in New York City many transgender individuals are unable to change the ‘gender marker’ listed on their birth certificate due to New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (‘Health Department’, under the New York City Office of Vital Records) rules that are inappropriate, presumptive, intrusive, and unclear in their intentions. The Health Department’s requirements are also out-of-step with the requirements of the federal government (as outlined in the Department of State’s gender marker passport updates), which seek to make it simpler for transgender individuals to update their passport.

[On June 9, 2010, the United States Department of State updated their passport policy. A passport applicant must only provide certification from an attending medical physician stating that the applicant has undergone appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition, for the passport to reflect the desired gender. It is also possible to obtain a limited-validity passport if the physician’s statement shows the applicant is in the process of gender transition. No additional medical records will be required. Sexual reassignment surgery is no longer a prerequisite for passport issuance.]

The Health Department currently requires individuals to undergo genital surgery (also commonly referred to as “bottom surgery”) before changing the gender or sex-identifier on their birth certificates. The agency is unspecific about the nature of the genital reassignment surgery, as there are multiple types of bottom surgery available for both male-to-female (MTF) and female-to-male (FTM) transgender persons. This ambiguity creates confusion for those seeking to update their birth certificate to their identified gender, as these kinds of surgeries can be very costly. Furthermore, it is difficult to find information about the process on the department’s website.

Many transgender individuals can't afford bottom surgery for financial reasons; a high number of these individuals may be receiving hormone therapy through their medical care provider to address masculinization or feminization of physical features. Finally, not all transgender individuals— even those identifying in their current gender in all areas of life, as well as those on hormone therapy— are interested in genital reassignment surgery. It is highly inappropriate for the Health Department to make decisions that imply generalizations about transgender individuals and their personal, medical choices.

As one moves from locality or state, a person may be required to present their birth certificate to prove identity; this becomes an issue when the gender marker or sex-identifier on the birth certificate is different from that on the state identification. New York State has a specific process for amending the gender or sex-identifier on a state ID or driver’s license, but individuals moving from New York State to another state may encounter difficulty if their birth certificate is also required to receive a state ID there. Additionally, many employers require access to an individual’s birth certificate to apply for health insurance, and transgender individuals may not want their employer to know about their biological sex or medical/surgical history.

Numerous transgender-rights advocacy agencies, as well as the National Association of Social Workers, have encouraged City and State agencies to abandon surgical requirements for changing identity documents. For instance, in 2009 the state of Illinois agreed to develop new standards for how much surgery is required before a person is eligible to switch the gender or sex-identifier on a birth certificate. City and State agencies are recognizing that any regulations in regards to updating gender identification on documents must be based on the standards set by the physicians actually treating these individuals. The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) is the major health association that sets the standards for medical treatment of transgender individuals. WPATH has stated “No person should have to undergo surgery or accept sterilization as a condition of identity recognition. Genital reconstruction is not required for social gender recognition, and such surgery should not be a prerequisite for document or record changes.”

In 2006, the Health Department considered dropping their requirement for gender reassignment surgery before switching a birth certificate's gender or sex-identifier, but did not do so citing identity fraud concerns.

The resolution I introduced into the New York City Council last year, Res. 1099-2011, urges the Health Department to abandon these confusing and intrusive requirements.

Resolution 1099 : http://tiny.cc/yc47aw

It is imperative that we treat LGBTQ persons with dignity and respect in all areas of society. We need to ensure that our laws and public agencies do not isolate anyone from fair access to basic rights like housing, healthcare, and employment. I consider myself a strong advocate for the LGBTQ community, and I will continue to work on the issues that affect the gay community in New York City.

Sincerely,
Letitia James
Member of the City Council

CM James Talks About NYPD's Stop & Frisk Policy And Impact on Minority Communities

Council Member Letitia James talks about NYPD's stop and frisk policy to the Transport Workers Union on February 29, 2012.



Courtesy of Capital NY here.