Posts tagged with "immigration"

Malka Nedivi – Transcending Matter

“Nedivi’s most singular gift is for transforming the literal and metaphorical artifacts of ruin into objects and experiences of folkloric, fantastical, and hypnotically eccentric beauty.” – Shayna Nys Dambrot, Huff Post, Dec 2017

Malka Nedivi’s current solo exhibition Transcending Matter is on view from Sunday November 13 to Sunday, December 11, 2022 at Matter Studio Gallery, 5080 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles. An opening reception will be held on Nov. 13 from 4-8 pm. The gallery will host an artist talk on Dec 4, 2-5pm where the artist will present a performance excerpt from her upcoming one-woman show “A Story About Shoes” at 3pm. A closing reception is scheduled for Sunday, December 11 from 2-5 pm.

Malka Nedivi’s Transcending Matter is the visually articulated story of reclaiming lost family history and healing for herself and her ancestors. It is an artist’s response to immense life challenges of generational trauma, coupled with immigration’s loss of grounding, and complicated familial relationships.

Nedivi began creating large sculptures and collage paintings following the death of her mother in 2002. These works explore the emotional connection she had with her parents – both survivors of the Holocaust. Born in the newly established State of Israel after her parents immigrated from Poland, Nedivi was raised in a family without ancestral mooring-where none of their history was discussed and remains largely unknown. Artmaking became her method for filling the gaps created by their lack of familial past.

“Everything that I use is old. I am giving the materials new life.” is how she describes the mixed media ingredients of her work. In repurposing discarded materials, she reclaims and restores diminished significance. Her resulting collaged figures combine Figurative Expressionism with the directness and accessibility of folk art. Nedivi’s process consists of layering and molding fabric, paper, and other mixed media in a way that is reminiscent of how her mother collected materials, perpetually patching and mending holes in worn garments. She sees her art as her way of mending the holes in her own life.

Malka Nedivi is a multi-disciplinary artist living and working in Los Angeles. She was born in Rehovot, Israel, in 1952, an only child to parents who survived the Holocaust and emigrated from Poland. Studying Theater and Literature at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, she directed plays and taught theater. In 1980, she moved to Los Angeles, CA, with her husband and son to study film at UCLA. She worked as an Assistant Film Editor from 1987-1992.

Malka has an extensive exhibition history including solo shows at BOA Art Gallery and the National Council of Jewish Women in Los Angeles. Malka’s work has been reviewed in publications such as the Huff Post, Beverly Press, Diversions LA, Filling the Negative Space, and Trebuchet Magazine.

UNITED WE ARE DREAMING

NEW DOCUMENTARY MAKES CASE FOR DREAMERS Defacto

Americans Remain in Legal Limbo United We Are Dreaming (USA/2022) is a 52-minute documentary that looks at the life circumstances of five Dreamers, adults now 22 to 40 years of age, who were brought to the US as small children by undocumented parents. They have grown up in the US, attended K-12 schools and have now progressed to college, military service, and, or employment.

The term Dreamer derives from the Dream Act, bipartisan legislation originally introduced in 2001 which if passed would have provided a special pathway to citizenship for these young undocumented residents, estimated at times to be up to a million in number.

The legislation has yet to pass. In 2012, President Obama created by Executive Order, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. DACA provides temporary protection from deportation, and the ability to legally work, among other privileges.

As 2023 approaches, DACA recipients are dispersed in communities throughout the US where they are building careers, raising their American born children and are otherwise immersed in their communities. Many were essential workers during the COVID pandemic. But some 600,000 Dreamers (part of an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrant residents in the U.S.) remain in legal limbo, susceptible to the political inclinations of lawmakers who have yet to seriously address a dysfunctional U.S. immigration system.

Dreamer Miguel Tapia Colin speaks for the others when he says, “I think in every sense, in every sense except on paper, I think I’m an American. You know, this is the only country I know, this is the country I grew up in. This is the country that I went to school in, standing up every morning, pledging allegiance to the flag, learning the history. Obviously, on paper I’m not, but I don’t think I’m less American than anybody else.”

Laura Collins, Director of the George W. Bush Institute Economic Growth Initiative offers, “I think the question we all need to ask ourselves is who gets to be American? And in my opinion, that is really looking forward to saying, how do we continue to live up to that ideal as that beacon of freedom and opportunity for people around the world? And that’s not just people fleeing violence and persecution, but people who truly believe in American ideals, even if they weren’t born here.”

Production of United We Are Dreaming began in 2020 at the start of the pandemic. The
documentary features important pieces of the stories of five Dreamers with connections to Delaware. During production, two graduated from college, another had a child, and the others transitioned to graduate programs and careers. In an unanticipated event, the mother of a participating Dreamer becomes a naturalized American citizen after decades of residency and petitioning.

Collectively, these segments offer a clear and compelling picture of the impact that
a long-fractured immigration system is having on the lives of DACA recipients and their
families…and the tenacity of human spirit that allows them to persist.

United We Are Dreaming is a Hearts and Minds Film, produced by the Delaware-based production company www.TELEDUCTION.com. The award-winning TELEDUCTION team specializes in the production of human-focused stories that have appeared on American Public Television, The History Channel, and others, and in prestigious Film Festivals that include Heartland and NYC Film and Television.

Watch Trailer HERE.

Scheduled community screenings in Delaware include:

November 16 at 7:00 P.M. – Delaware State University, Dover Campus
November 29 at 7:00 P.M. – Delaware Technical and Community College, Owens Campus in Georgetown
November 30 at 7:00 P.M. – Penn Cinema on the Riverfront, Wilmington

MARTHA MILLAN – THE CLEANING LADY

Listen to riveting actress, Martha Millan, chat with Vaughn Lowery on 360 MAG Amazon | Spotify podcast HERE.

One of the most talked-about actors of Fox’s hit series, The Cleaning Lady, Martha Millan was born in the Philippines, and raised in Sydney. In Australia, she got the acting bug when she took a theatrical high school elective. Upon graduation, She was accepted into the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (NYC).

Developed by Miranda Kwok, The Cleaning Lady made the top 5 new broadcast drama of the 2021-2022 season. It marked Fox’s network’s highest-rated drama premiere in two years as well as Hulu’s most streamed debut in the network’s history.

Millan is best known for her work in “The OA,” “Succession,” “Entourage,” “Madam Secretary,” “Strong Medicine,” all three primary shows of the “Law & Order” franchise, THE GREAT NEW WONDERFUL with Maggie Gyllenhaal, Jim Parsons and Will Arnett. Of late, she starred alongside of Danny Glover in the critically acclaimed film, THE DRUMMER.

In addition to being a relevant talent, Martha holds acting workshops for children. Pre-pandemic, she’s conducted after school programs at Public Schools Brooklyn. Moreover, she produced an online drama education curriculum for 10-16 years old. Some of the participants are from Brazil, Portugal and Israel.

As a globetrotter, Martha has visited a plethora of countries: Spain, Greece, Aruba, Peru, Indonesia, Guatemala and Panama.

To maintain her youthful exterior, Martha maintains a rigorous fitness regimen eith running and high-intensity training.

FUN FACT

Millan was one of the global ambassadors of Clairol Natural Instincts and the face of Nooch, a restaurant in New York City.

Watch conversation on YT HERE.

Martha Millan from Fox's hit series The Cleaning Lady inside 360 MAGAZINE — Martha Millan from Fox’s hit series The Cleaning Lady inside 360 MAGAZINE

Photo Credit: Rob Echanique

Julio Macias & Michaela Jae Rodriguez –LATINA Magazine

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Michaela Jaé Rodriguez and Julio Macias are LATINA’s latest cover stars. MJ, the multi-hyphenate talent makes history again as LATINA’s first-ever trans cover star and Julio Macias graces his first-ever cover. The dual cover feature celebrates two rising figures in Hollywood that are paving the way for the new generation of Latinx talent in the entertainment industry. LATINA is committed to amplifying the diverse voices across all spaces, championing the next generation of Latinx creatives.

See Rising Mexican American actor Julio Macias‘s cover HERE.

Macias knew early in his career that he did not want to become pigeon-holed into roles that were placed in films to depict hostility and inflict fear. Macias gained a lot of gratitude and admiration after starring in the character of Oscar Diaz, a tough, East LA cholo that goes by “Spooky” and is committed to guarding his younger brother on the Netflix show “On My Block.” Macias said goodbye to the life-altering character in October. Oscar was able to shed light on and represent numerous Chicano fans that saw themselves in the character.

Macias has continued to share his experience of being a Mexican American in the entertainment industry. He continues to discuss themes surrounding his journey of immigrating to the US, the process of adapting to American culture and just the overall challenges that he’s had to face from his childhood to the present. When discussing the entertainment industry, Macias states “in retrospect, I look at it and I’m like, wow, the community as a whole wasn’t diverse enough for me to feel comfortable easing into it. It was very much, adapt or be an outsider.”

While chatting with Laura Sanchez on his path to where he is today, he reveals an experience from when he was cast in the Latino Theater Co.’s production of “A Mexican Trilogy,” written by Evelina Fernandez and directed by Jose Luis Valenzuela. Part of the production for “A Mexican Trilogy” was compromised of Chicano players, and this permitted Macias to discover more about his culture. The experience allowed for him to learn more about his culture that he hadn’t while growing up. He states, “I consider myself part of the Chicano culture…I want to teach it, I want to be a part of it and hold it truthfully. And even though I’ve never necessarily felt like an outsider, I understand that people still see me as an outsider, so how can I bridge that gap?”

Starring in LATINA’s surprise second cover, this is, too, Macias’ first cover moment. The dual cover was led by Latina’s Chief Content Officer, Camila Legaspi. Legaspi aimed to highlight innovators and rising forces in television. Legaspi discusses Macias, stating “”LATINA continues to amplify diverse individuals across all industries and it’s really exciting to have Julio Macias as our surprise dual cover star. He is an incredible rising talent in Hollywood and we are proud to highlight the next generation of creatives.”

Earlier this year, the beloved actress, singer, and activist Michaela Jaé Rodriguez smashed the glass ceiling by becoming the first trans actor nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her work on Pose. The multi-hyphenate talent makes history again as LATINA’s first-ever trans cover star.

Themed around Michaela Jaé Rodriguez’s ability to tell stories and real-life role both on and off-screen as a protector, the rising force opens up about her journey breaking into the industry, repping her hometown in Newark, NJ, and her Afro-Latinx identity, “One thing that I learned as an Afro-Latina, is that I should never, ever, ever be afraid — which I never was — but it was always instilled in me, to never be afraid of your heritage.”

See Michaela Jaé Rodriguez’s cover HERE.

Michaela Jaé reflects deeply on her Emmy achievement: “I feel like it was an ode to my ancestors on how hard they had to fight within the trans community. I feel like it was also an ode to my Latino and Black ancestors who never got a chance to see, you know, the ones thrive before them or see the ones thrive after them.” And how she sees her beloved character, Blanca, as an inspiration. “I had my mother, I had my father, I had my second dad. I had the LGBTQIA community. I had all of those beautiful opportunities to be loved on. Blanca had none of that, and yet she still created it.”

It’s no surprise that the wunderkind has Hollywood and now the music industry buzzing. The self-proclaimed “regular girl from Newark” has captured the hearts of many and along the way has brought marginalized voices to the forefront.

Examining how her family support system, her Afro-Boricua identity, and her deep desire to entertain, have all intertwined beautifully in her life, LATINA uncovers that Ms. Rodriguez’s family is the life force that elevates and guards her, especially her mother. “She celebrates and embraces all of her intersections: Black, Latina, Puerto Rican, a Newarker; a performer, a woman, and a trans girl; all fluidly.”

Digital Artist/Designer Marta Klopf QXA

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By: Ally Brewster

Marta Klopf is graphic designer that works in web and brand design. When talking about her artwork Klopf says, “My projects focus on clear communication while highlighting the values, thoughts and stories behind a brand and translating conceptual ideas into cohesive visual worlds.” Originally from Italy, Klopf graduated from Minneapolis College of Art & Design and soon moved to New York City, quickly falling in love with the city and finding inspiration in it. She loves being able to help with change through her art and design. Klopf looks forward to getting back to creating art for local community focused organizations in the future. We had the opportunity to ask Marta Klopf about her artistic journey and what’s next for the artist:

How did you get into graphic design? Was graphic design always the direction you wanted to go?

I wasn’t one of those people who know as children what they are going to be when they grow up: for a long time I didn’t see a path that seemed right for me. I was always interested in a lot of things, and always wanted to follow new ideas and start new projects. What I did know was that I was interested in art, and that I was passionate about communicating. So I discovered design, which is at its very core visual communication. I moved to Minneapolis to pursue my BFA in graphic design and have worked in the field since. And I think it worked out, because design gives you the opportunity to be interested in a lot of things, to approach different projects with different ideas and interests.

Do you have a preference for working digitally or physically? Why?

I love working digitally: I feel like the digital world is where a lot of people today go to find information, learn things, discover brands, buy things, make connections, and therefore it is a dynamic place that is always evolving, which makes it exciting to be a part of it. I also think digital projects challenge you in a different way, because they need to make an impact while also remaining flexible and adaptable.

You stated: “New York is vibrant and makes you feel alive. You always feel like you are part of something big. It always pushes you creatively because there is always something new to inspire you.” What initially drew you to work in New York? Do you have a favorite thing in New York you always go back to for inspiration if you ever feel burnt out?

I think that, at first, what drew me to New York was the sheer quantity of creatives and creative endeavors, which gives you the opportunity to really find a path that works for you and matches your interests. But I didn’t expect to really fall for the city as much or as quickly as I did: I met a lot of inspiring designers and creatives who were pursuing their passions in so many different ways. I think the people are what always inspires me: it may be a bit cliché, but the energy that comes from surrounding yourself with other creative people can be very energizing. I also love to take long walks: you always end up somewhere new, and getting out of your usual environment and what is comfortable usually helps.

You’re a freelance graphic designer “with experience in web and brand design.” What is your favorite aspect of being a freelance artist? The most difficult?

I work for an agency and also do freelance projects, so I get the best and worst of both. I love the freedom of freelance work. You are in charge of what projects you take on, and the directness of working directly with the person who will use your work makes it empowering. The most difficult part would be that you are alone: you have to be the one who does all the organizing, the designing, the coordinating, the email writing, the zoom calls. Which I like, but can be quite a lot.

How do you begin your process of starting a new project with a brand?

The first thing I do is learn as much as I can about the project, first to determine whether it’s something I am able to take on, and then to find out what makes the project special. I would then typically meet with the client, talk about big picture things (their ideas and needs, their philosophy, and so on) as well as practical things (timeline, other people involved in the project, etc). Depending on the project I would then come up with a few ideas and see whether they will work and are well received. From there, it becomes a matter of getting more and more detailed and continuing to incorporate feedback from the client until the final product is ready.

Of the projects you’ve worked on, which is your favorite? What about it makes it so memorable/special for you?

I recently finished a website called letstech.at. It is geared towards kids 10-18 in age and is meant to be a science/engineering portal for them: get them interested in more scientific or technical subjects, present ideas through videos and blog articles, as well as show role models (especially female ones) who work in the field and be a place where they can find information about careers in engineering. I loved working on it both because it was a design challenge (trying to speak to a relatively broad age range), and because it truly is a great resource for kids: it feels great to be part of something that empowers them through learning and through highlighting female role models.

As someone who loves being able to help change the world through your artwork, which causes are you passionate about that you would want to design for in the future?

I try not to set limits on what want to do, but generally I feel strongly about projects that are of value to people: in the case of the project above, kids who want to learn, but also, for example, design for community based organizations who help women, minorities, or in any way empower people by offering them resources that may be otherwise difficult to access. As another example, I also was part of a mentoring program, where professional designers helped create logos for groups of high schoolers who wanted to pitch ideas to help their community to investors. I love being able to use my skills that way: making an impact through design.

With your artwork, what direction do you feel like you want to go in next? Is there any new pattern, style, process, person, media, etc, that you feel has grabbed your attention and inspired your work? Is there anything you’ve done in the past you want to continue with?

I feel that style changes constantly, and the more we focus on style the less longevity a project has. What matters to me the most are good ideas, and I think the time of the pandemic (having to stay home and mostly focus on work) really reinforced the idea of wanting to make work that has an impact. I always look at the work of Partner & Partners (where I used to work) and Hyperakt in New York as inspiration for beautiful work that is backed by great ideas and also makes an impact on the communities and the world we live in.

Marta Klopf is currently accepting freelance projects here.

Marta Klopf design for LetsTech

Legalizing Immigrant Essential Workers

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ROUNDUP: Senate Subcommittee Hearing Energizes Advocates for Legalizing Immigrant Essential Workers This Year

The Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, and Border Safety held a hearing, chaired by Sen. Alex Padilla titled “The Essential Role of Immigrant Workers in America.” In response to this unofficial kick off of the next stage of the immigration debate, immigration advocacy organizations released statements highlighting the important roles immigrants play in our economy as essential workers and especially during national challenges, like the unprecedented pandemic. The hearing underscored why providing them a pathway to citizenship would not only be the right thing to do for them and their families, but also our country.

Read key excerpts from the statements below:

We Are Home Campaign:

This is our opening salvo in a renewed push to make legalization and citizenship a reality for essential workers in the next 100 days — including DACA, TPS, and Farmworkers. They are the backbone of key sectors in our economy and valuable contributors to our nation. With the support of the majority of the American public, and the collective power of our movement, we will work with Democrats to ensure that we legalize as many people as possible after decades of inaction.

We are grateful for the leadership of Senator Padilla, Senator Menendez, Sen. Schumer, Speaker Pelosi and other Democrats who are working to advance this goal. Unlike what the Republicans may lead you to believe, the moment is now. There is a legislative path for immigration reform either through reconciliation or through the Dream and Promise Act and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. We are ready to make sure our essential workers are able to live their lives with dignity and free from fear, and to that end we will hold both Democrats and Republicans accountable.

National Immigration Forum:

Immigrant workers make up 17.4 percent of the labor force in the United States, and they have played a crucial role amid the pandemic. Across numerous sectors, immigrants are doing essential work on the front lines fighting Covid-19 and keeping the nation safe. Immigrants—faithful to their entrepreneurial spirit—have kept our country fed, healthy, and moving forward thanks to their work in health care, food supply, transportation, and other vital jobs.

The Forum believes that if our economy is to recover from the setbacks Covid-19 presented, we need immigrant workers operating at full steam. Hence, we urge Congress to pass immigration reforms to deal with the existence of the millions of people already living and working in the United States, many of whom are essential workers standing alongside American-born workers to help with Covid-19 response and recovery. The Forum endorses legislation that would allow essential workers—such as agricultural and health care workers—to earn permanent resident status and the possibility of citizenship.

National Immigration Law Center:

Today’s hearing is an important step forward, as we continue to urge Congress to seize this critical moment and provide a long overdue pathway to citizenship for essential workers, immigrant youth, people with temporary protected status, and, eventually, all undocumented immigrants in the U.S. As we move into a recovery from COVID and build back our nation, we must recognize that there is no recovery without immigrants.

Church World Service:

For far too long, Dreamers, farm workers, TPS holders and many more immigrant workers have waited for Congress to deliver an opportunity to pass a meaningful, permanent solution that provides a path to citizenship. CWS joins nearly 1,000 faith organizations, faith leaders, and people of faith urging the Biden administration to include a pathway to citizenship for essential immigrant workers, farmworkers, people with DACA, TPS, and DED, and their families in the upcoming recovery packages prioritized through reconciliation […]. CWS urges the Biden administration and Congress to secure a pathway to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants, including essential workers, immediately.

FIRM Action:

More than five million undocumented essential workers have risked their health and lives throughout the pandemic to keep the country from completely collapsing. They take care of our kids and elderly, keep our hospitals and public spaces clean, and they are the workers–in the fields and grocery store aisles–who are responsible for feeding the nation. Congress has the ability to create this path and use any and all vehicles available to make it a reality–including via reconciliation. Denying them a pathway to citizenship is irresponsible and cruel.

Make the Road:

The country’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic depends on Congress advancing legislation that delivers on its promise of long overdue relief to millions of DACA recipients, TPS holders and undocumented essential workers. With broad support across the country, Congress must deliver a path to citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants as part of the reconciliation process. Before and throughout the pandemic immigrant essential workers put their life on the line to keep our communities safe and sustain our economy. It is time Congress values their work, honors their sacrifices, and recognizes their contributions by keeping them safe from deportation and separation from their families. To Build Back Better, Congress must take decisive action to move forward a path to citizenship for essential workers by passing the Citizenship for Essential Workers Act without any harmful provisions that criminalize our people.

CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights):

Undocumented immigrants are workers, taxpayers, consumers, entrepreneurs and neighbors, fueling our economic growth as a nation at every step. Year after year, they add trillions of dollars to our GDP and contribute to federal, state and local coffers with their taxes.

But during this past year, they have done even more: they have kept us safe even as they risked their own health to keep the country running. Some of them have even lost their lives in that effort. This bill would look after their families.

The least we can do as a nation is to see that sacrifice, acknowledge it, and reward them with the path to citizenship so many of them have sought for decades. They have our gratitude, but they deserve more: they must have the legalization that will allow them to keep contributing to this nation, now in the full sunlight of a fairer system–not in the shadow of fear and deportation.

United We Dream:

Over five million undocumented people continue to put their lives on the line to keep our communities and families healthy, fed, and safe amidst the pandemic. Despite facing increased risk of exposure to COVID-19, millions of undocumented people remain excluded from federal relief and recovery efforts, and in several cases have been denied vaccines in states like Florida and Texas because of their immigration status.

With immigration status being one of the most significant barriers preventing communities from fully recovering from COVID-19, passing a pathway to citizenship for essential workers, immigrant youth, TPS holders, and farm workers is relief. Until all undocumented communities are protected permanently, we will not fully recover. Senate Democrats must do everything in their power to act swiftly to deliver a pathway to citizenship for millions now! This includes adding a pathway to citizenship for millions in the American Jobs Package and moving it through the budget reconciliation process.

Center for American Progress:

Providing these essential workers with permanent legal status will allow them to realize their full potential, to realize their American dreams. This is not only part of a just, inclusive, and robust post-pandemic economic recovery for all Americans, but can be done without increasing undocumented immigration to the U.S. Immigrant essential workers who lack permanent legal status deserve more than our recognition and our praise; they have earned a pathway to citizenship. They have kept us fed by working in our nation’s food supply chain. Workers deemed essential today should not live with the uncertainty and fear of deportation tomorrow.

With each day that goes by without meaningful immigration reform the fear of deportation or separation due to immigration status sits as an added burden on the shoulders of millions of immigrant essential workers and their families. Indeed, immigrant essential workers who lack permanent legal status have earned a pathway to citizenship. A pathway to citizenship for these workers is crucial not only for just keeping families together, but also for an inclusive and robust post-pandemic rebuilding of America.

America’s Voice:

Immigrant workers are essential workers and it’s time our country values their work, sacrifices, and contributions by providing a path to citizenship. We cannot continue to simultaneously treat essential workers as both essential and deportable.

In his short time in the Senate, Sen. Padilla has taken an important leadership role on immigration and as Chair of the Immigration Subcommittee. Today’s hearing marks a new phase in the debate that underscores Democrats’ consensus that this is the year to finally achieve a popular breakthrough on citizenship and for Democrats to use their majority to change lives, strengthen the country and engage America’s immigrants fully in our recovery from COVID-19 and our recovery from the Trump years.

We Are Home is a nationwide campaign to fight for immigrant communities on three fronts: prioritizing and demanding a pathway to citizenship for the 11 million undocumented immigrants in America; a moratorium and overhaul of interior enforcement; and broad affirmative relief from deportation. We Are Home is co-chaired by Community Change/Community Change Action; National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA)/Care in Action; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); United Farm Workers/UFW Foundation; and United We Dream.

Weekly News Roundup: Week of May 3

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President Biden Raises Refugee Admission Cap to 62,500 People

In a move to reverse former President Donald Trump’s stricter admission cap on refugees, President Biden has raised the admission cap to 62,500 people in the next six months. Originally, Trump had administered a cap on 15,000 refugees. At first, Biden said he would stick to this figure, but changed his stance after receiving condemnation from Democrats on Capitol Hill. In a statement issued by the White House addressing this political reversal, Biden commented “This erases the historically low number set by the previous administration of 15,000, which did not reflect America’s values as a nation that welcomes and supports refugees.” The New York Times says that Biden’s statement acknowledged how Trump’s budget and staffing cuts during his presidency makes it more unlikely to handle resettling 62,500 refugees within the coming year. In his statement, Biden admitted “the sad truth is that we will not achieve 62,500 admissions this year,” he said. “We are working quickly to undo the damage of the last four years. It will take some time, but that work is already underway.”

Pfizer Vaccine to be Administered to Adolescents

The availability of the Pfizer vaccine is soon to more accessible to millions more Americans. The FDA is said to authorize the use of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine for adolescents aged 12-15 by early next week. Pfizer has recently released trial results in which show their vaccine to be at least as effective for adolescents as it is for the adult population. If granted access, the CDC will likely meet the following day to review the clinical trial data and announce public health recommendations for adolescent vaccinations. Over 100 million adults have already been vaccinated, and with the Pfizer vaccine becoming available to millions more, the level of public immunity is forecasted to rise, and the number of deaths and hospitalizations are to drop.

In order to target vaccinations to younger Americans, Biden announced on Tuesday that mass vaccinations sites would shift to more local settings. He also stated his goal of vaccination 70% of Americans by July’s Independence Day. To those who are unvaccinated, Biden plead: “This is your choice. Its life and death.” On Tuesday, the Biden Administration announced that tens of millions more Americans need to get vaccinated before the rate of the coronavirus will be low enough to return to normalcy.

Subway Overpass Collapse Results in the Death of 23 People

Late Monday night in Mexico City, the collapse of a subway overpass–and subsequent fall of an active train car– resulted in the deaths of 23 people. Dozens of more victims are suffering injuries. The accident occurred on Line 12, one of the newer tracks in Mexico’s subway system. The subway system has been plagued by safety concerns from the public after a severe earthquake in 2017. Over 70 people were transported to the nearby hospitals, most of them delivered to Belisario Dominguez Hospital. Mexico’s fire fighters, military, and forensics department all arrived on scene to aid in the rescuing and recovery of the accident’s victims. Currently, Line 12 will remain closed as authorities investigate the harrowing accident. The Mayor of Mexico City, Claudio Steinbaum, spoke to reporters on Tuesday morning: ” At this moment, we can’t speculate about what happened. There has to be a deep investigation, and whoever is responsible has to be held responsible.”

Derek Chauvin Files for New Trial Regarding Murder of George Floyd

The trial of the police officer involved in the killing of George Floyd, Derek Chauvin, was found guilty of one count of second-degree murder, one count of third-degree murder, and one count of second-degree manslaughter by Judge Peter Cahill. However, Chauvin’ lawyer, Eric Nelson, is now claiming that Chauvin’s rights were violated during the trial since Judge Cahill refused a change of venue regarding where the trial was help. As a result of such, Nelson claims that the pre-trial publicity deprived Chauvin of a fair trial. NPR reports that Nelson also has cited “prosecutorial and jury misconduct; errors of law at trial; and a verdict that is contrary to law.” In Nelson’s file motion that requests another trial, he argues that the court “abused its discretion” because of the nationwide publicity of the high-profile trial. Due to the mass publicity of the trial, Nelson says that the defense’s expert witnesses and jury felt “threatened of intimidated, felt race-based pressure during the proceedings.”

NPR reports that according to Nelson’s file motion, the court abused its discretion by:

When it failed to sequester the jury for the duration of the trial, or in the least, admonish them to avoid all media

When it permitted the State to present cumulative evidence with respect to use of force
When it failed to order that a record be made of the numerous sidebars that occurred during the trial
When it submitted instructions to the jury that failed to accurately reflect the law with respect to second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder, and authorized use of force

NPR’s Carrie Johnson reports on how infrequently officers are called to conduct while in uniform, “Some studies show only seven police officers since 2005 have been convicted of murder for their actions on the job. That’s even though about 1,000 or 1,100 people a year die at the hands of police.” The way in which Derek Chauvin’s initial trial ended was a long-awaited plea for justice that many Americans felt finally acknowledged and held accountable the perpetrators of police violence and systemic racism in the nation. Ultimately, it is up to Judge Peter Cahill to decide whether to open trial again for Chauvin.

Facebook’s Suspension of Donald Trump Continues

Since the Capitol insurrection on January 1, Facebook has suspended Trump’s usage of the platform. The length and permanence of the suspension has been hotly debated lately, especially since Facebook doesn’t have a standard policy or punishment regarding indefinite suspensions. On Wednesday, a team of journalists, activists, and lawyers upheld the social media company’s ban of Trump. Their discussion ended any immediate return of Trump to the platform, and sparked debate concerning freedom of speech online. Facebook’s Oversight Board cited their reasoning for banning Trump in January, stating that Trump “created an environment where a serious risk of violence was possible. At the time of Mr. Trump’s posts, there was a clear, immediate risk of harm and his words of support for those involved in the riots legitimized their violent actions.” After Facebook reviews its action, Trump may be able to return to the platform later down the line. Other social media giants, including Twitter and YouTube, also locked Trump’s accounts after the Capitol chaos. Trump has responded to the rulings with agitation, stating that “free Speech has been taken away from the President of the United States because the Radical Left Lunatics are afraid of the truth.” The New York Times reports that Facebook responded to their ruling in a statement, stating that the company is “‘pleased’ that the board recognized that its barring of Mr. Trump in January was justified. It said it would consider the ruling and ‘determine an action that is clear and proportionate.’”

Liz Cheney May Be Sequestered from G.O.P.

Rep. Liz Cheyney has received backlash from Republican lawmakers in the GOP party due to her public criticisms of former President Donald Trump. After Trump’s insurrection at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, she voted to impeach him from office. This vote to impeach Trump increased tensions between Cheyney and the members of the GOP leadership and other Republican lawmakers. Notably, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy questioned Cheyney’s ability to carry out her position in office, stating “I have heard from members concerned about her ability to carry out the job as conference chair, to carry out the message. We all need to be working as one if we’re able to win the majority.” At the Conservative Political Action Committee, Cheyney was asked if Trump should speak at the conference. She replied, “I’ve been clear in my views about President Trump and the extent to which following Jan. 6 I don’t believe that he should be playing a role in the future of the party or the country.” While her party oppositions have landed Cheyney in controversy, Sen. Mitt Romney tweeted on Tuesday, recognizing her honesty and dedication to her stance: “Every person of conscience draws a line beyond which they will not go: Liz Cheney refuses to lie.”

Olympians And Officials to Be Offered Pfizer Vaccine

The International Olympic Committee announced on Thursday that, in an effort to quell public safety concerns, athletes and official will be offered the Pfizer vaccine before arriving in Japan. Through utilization of domestic inoculation programs, vaccines are to be administered to patients in their home countries. However, there is no requirement for athletes, coaches, officials, or others attending the game to be vaccinated. So far, approximately only 1% of Japan’s residents have been fully vaccinated, according to The New York Times’ database. In a statement put out by the International Olympic Committee, it was notes that “any additional doses delivered by Pfizer and BioNTech will not be taken out of existing programs, but will be in addition to existing quotas and planned deliveries around the world.” Hopefully, the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer will bring celebration, instead of crisis.

Kali Uchis Virtual Concert

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Grammy-winning artist Kali Uchis and 1800 Cristalino Tequila host Sin Miedo: La Experiencia

Virtual Concert Premiere Via YouTube

Watch the performance here!

Here at 360 Magazine, we had the pleasure of viewing the premiere of Sin Miedo: La Experiencia. Leading up to the virtual concert, there was a creatively animated two-minute countdown introducing the virtual concert. Kali Uchis appears in a beautifully nude colored bodice with delicate sheer fabric flowing down the length of her legs. Surrounded by cacti, beautiful sky background and sultry lighting, Kali began her performance.

The creative direction had a heavenly yet playful vibe as Kali beautifully shifted between songs with her soft, sultry, siren-like voice. 1800 Christalino Tequila was seen strategically placed throughout the premiere and Kali poured a glass at the end of the performances as she thanked her fans for watching.

1800 Cristalino Tequila and Kali paired up to benefit the Human Rights Initiative, which is Kali’s preferred charity that provides free legal and social protections for immigrant communities in need. 50% of the proceeds from each 1800 Cristalino x Kali Uchis Cocktail Kit sold will benefit the charity.

1800 Cristalino Presents: Kali Uchis “Sin Miedo La Experiencia”

0:06 La Luna Enamorada

1:53 Fue Mejor

5:07 Aguardiente y Limón

7:48 Te Pongo Mal

9:49 An Intro for Telepatía

1800 Por Vida

1.5 oz. 1800 Cristalino Tequila
1 tsp. light agave nectar
2 dashes of grapefruit bitters
4 oz. citrus tonic

Directions: Combine all ingredients in a Collins glass with ice and stir. Top with tonic, stir gently to combine. Garnish with half grapefruit wheel and rosemary sprig.

1800 Cristalino x Kali Uchis cocktail kit

Opposing Anti-LGBTQ Legislations

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Major Health, Education, and Child Welfare Organizations Oppose Anti-LGBTQ State-Based Legislation

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the nation’s leading child health and welfare groups representing more than 7 million youth-serving professionals and more than 1000 child welfare organizations released an open letter calling for lawmakers in states across the country to oppose dozens of bills that target LGBTQ people, and transgender children in particular. In too many states, lawmakers are focusing on passing bills that attack our nation’s most vulnerable, instead of focusing on how to help the American people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The signers note: “As organizations committed to serving the best interests of all youth, we are deeply alarmed at the torrent of bills introduced in state legislatures around the country this year that would directly harm transgender people and particularly transgender youth. These appalling proposals would compromise the safety and well-being of the young people we all have the duty and obligation to support and protect. All of our nation’s children deserve equal protection and treatment when accessing health care, and when attending school. These anti-transgender bills promote discrimination and do harm to students, their families, and their communities.”

“While states should be focusing on finding ways to ensure that every young person has a chance to succeed, we are instead seeing a majority of states introducing harmful legislation that excludes, discriminates against, and outright harms transgender youth who are simply trying to navigate their adolescence,” said Human Rights Campaign President Alphonso David. “Anti-transgender sports bills are in search of a problem that does not exist and just the latest iteration of a years-long losing fight against equality. In fact, anti-equality legislators when challenged are unable to name any instances of alleged cheating in their states to gain a competitive edge. That is because there are none. The notion is preposterous, nonsensical, and impractical. Other legislation is attempting to deny medically necessary gender-affirming care that helps to mitigate the life-threatening anxiety, depression, and dysphoria that are disproportionately experienced by transgender youth. Amidst an epidemic of fatal violence against transgender people, it is imperative that we do everything in our power to foster a more inclusive, less discriminatory society that guarantees acceptance of and equality to all. I thank every child health and welfare organization for stepping up and speaking out against the anti-transgender legislation that would have a profound effect on our young people.”

As organizations committed to serving the best interests of all youth, we are deeply alarmed at the torrent of bills introduced in state legislatures and in Congress this year that would directly harm transgender people and particularly transgender youth. These appalling proposals would compromise the safety and well-being of the young people we all have the duty and obligation to support and protect.

All of our nation’s young people deserve equal protection and treatment when accessing health care, and when attending school and participating in extracurricular activities, including sports. These anti-transgender bills promote discrimination and do harm to students, their families, and their communities.

Since state legislatures began meeting this year, we have already seen more than 65 bills introduced seeking to deny transgender youths’ access to gender-affirming medical treatment, preventing them from participating in sports teams consistent with their gender identity, and denying access to sex-segregated spaces that include restrooms and locker rooms. Similar legislation is even being pushed in the U.S. Congress.

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender equality, is alarmed by the spate of anti-transgender legislation proposed across the country. We have found that less than a quarter of transgender and gender-expansive youth can definitely be themselves at school and only sixteen percent of transgender and gender-expansive youth feel safe at school. Every child deserves equal access to education, academic success, and a future in which they are empowered to fulfill their true potential, and these laws contravene that fundamental principle, which has long guided our nation’s education policy.

Transgender youth are already at a heightened risk for violence, bullying, and harassment. In addition, students who would be affected by these bills are among our most vulnerable to experiencing depression and engaging in self-harm, including suicide. These bills exacerbate those risks by creating an unwelcoming and hostile environment in places where students should feel the safest and most supported. Research has shown that when transgender youth have access to gender-affirming services, competent care, and affirmation, their risk of depression, anxiety, and other negative mental health outcomes is greatly reduced.

We stand in opposition to proposals that harm transgender youth, including limiting access to medically necessary, best-practice care, forbidding students from using the restroom at school consistent with their gender identity, and preventing transgender youth from playing sports alongside their peers. On behalf of our members and communities, we call on legislators across the country to reject these harmful measures.

Sincerely,

American Academy of Pediatrics

American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education

American Counseling Association

American School Counselor Association

Association of Title IX Administrators

Child Welfare League of America

Mental Health America

National Association for College Admission Counseling

National Association of School Psychologists

National Association of Secondary School Principals

National Association of Social Workers

National Education Association

National PTA

American Attitudes Towards Immigrants

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New Report: What Immigration Issues Do Americans Hold Sacred?

Why has immigration moved from being a mundane policy issue into one of the most hotly-debated topics in American politics today? Why was family separation so widely rebuked by the public and why is building a border wall so divisive?

Answers to these questions can be found in a new report published by the Center for Inclusion and Belonging at the American Immigration Council and Over Zero, titled: “What Immigration Issues Do Americans Hold Sacred? A Psychological Journey into American Attitudes Towards Immigrants” by Nichole Argo, Ph.D. and Kate Jassin, Ph.D.

The report—and the behavioral survey upon which it is based—overcome the limitations of traditional polling by digging deeper into how deeply respondents think about immigration issues, and why they feel the way that they do.

In March 2020, the authors conducted a nationally representative survey to examine 14 key immigration issues. They asked respondents to choose between an open or restrictive stance on each issue, then reflect on how much it mattered to them. They then asked how much money it would take for respondents to give up this value.

Stances that cannot be traded away for any amount of money are considered “sacred values.” They are processed in the brain differently than regular values, and efforts to argue or negotiate around them as if they are regular values are likely to backfire.

How sacred is immigration in the United States today to those on the right and the left? Very. This is one explanation for why the debate becomes so heated on immigration and easily divides Americans.

What are the beliefs, values, experiences, and attitudes most associated with open or restrictive sacralization and what can we do about it?

View the full report and key findings here