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At church, Trump stirs up tensions among black immigrants. Are Democrats ready to respond?

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If you listened closely during Donald Trump’s recent visit to a “black” church in Detroit, you could have heard whispers concerning the ghosts of the political past.

“They are attacking your jobs,” Trump said. “People crossing the border – all these millions of people – are causing enormous harm to our black population and our Latino population.”

Trump’s dire warning was not a brand new claim, however it has been repeated across political eras, sometimes even by Democrats themselves. After all, President Bill Clinton signed a law in 1996 that made it easier to deport more immigrants while narrowing the trail to legal immigration.

For many Black Americans, this remains to be not the case – for them, immigrants are their allies, exploited by similar economic systems designed to marginalize the “other.” But for other groups of voters within the broader Black community, even when it isn’t politically correct to say it out loud, Trump’s claim about competition from immigrants could also be attractive.

For these voters, immigrants – most frequently Latino immigrants – are allegedly the explanation why Black Americans lose their jobs and are marginalized within the very country they helped construct with their sweat and blood. For them, while immigrants began to pursue the American dream, sometimes called “hard workers,” black Americans were trampled on as they climbed the ladder of racial and social caste. If immigrants didn’t take jobs, they not less than sometimes clashed culturally.

So whose interpretation is true?

The query of whether immigrants are “taking” jobs and opportunities from Black Americans is a sensitive one for advocacy groups and a few political circles since the answer requires nuance.

The American Immigration Council argues that there isn’t a significant correlation between high levels of immigration and high unemployment among black Americans because immigrants often play complementary roles within the labor market. These are positions requiring lower qualifications, which opens the best way for native employees to perform better-paid positions. However, in an article within the journal “Beyond conflict and competition”, authors Chrisshonna Grant Nieva, Laura Pulido and Nathan J. Sessoms explain the next:

Haitian immigrants who crossed a spot within the U.S.-Mexico border barrier wait in line to be processed by the U.S. Border Patrol on May 20, 2022, in Yuma, Arizona. (Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

In short, the reply will depend on your occupation and level of education.

This research shows us that policy frameworks for “immigrant competition” must acknowledge complexity, otherwise they may appear to disregard the true experiences of some people. For those that want easy answers, heroes and scapegoats, the above explanation doesn’t satisfy either side of the talk.

But that does not imply Democrats should avoid it.

Doing so only strengthens the case as an efficient tool for the Republican Party. Look no further than the handfuls of immigrants bused into predominantly black Chicago neighborhoods to sow deep resentment among residents.

“Our particular frustration is with the continued and blatant disregard for the safety and overall quality of life of Black residents, as many of these migrants have been abandoned in our neighborhoods with no plan in place to monitor and house them long-term,” she said. Natasha Dunn, Chicago resident, quoted on Fox News article regarding a housing plan that assumed the location of migrants in a close-by abandoned school.

And speaking of Fox News, one seek for “Black” and “migrants” yields quite a few articles portraying immigrants as a threat to the Black community. Somehow, the identical right-wing media brands that disparage and demonize the Black Lives Matter movement, DEI, racial justice efforts, and America’s first Black president are concerned concerning the well-being and pain of Black communities.

The most astute media consumers can spot contradictions. But others won’t care concerning the source of the news. It also doesn’t negate the concerns of Black Americans, especially in the event that they live in swing states where each vote could make or break the consequence of an election.

Democrats tend to lump essentially the most racially and ethnically diverse communities under one big electoral tent, with Black and Latino voters (including Black Latinos/Latinos) being a part of their electoral coalition. For Democrats to counter Trump’s attacks on them as a celebration out of touch with immigration on the expense of the Black community, they should have a transparent explanation of how the concerns of immigrant communities align with Black American communities.

Migrants, most of them from Haiti, are seen at an encampment along the Del Rio International Bridge near the Rio Grande, Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021, in Del Rio, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

They must even be prepared to tell the story of how these groups formed the coalition.

Just as Black Americans aren’t a monolith, immigrants to America, especially Latino immigrants, who come from over 20 countries, aren’t a monolith, speak different languages, and belong to different races.

In cities like New York within the Sixties, Black American and Puerto Rican immigrant communities fought side by side for his or her civil rights, with groups just like the Black Panthers and Young Lords demanding healthcare, education and an end to exploitation. Even though Puerto Rican migrants are American residents, there are still lessons to be learned from cross-cultural cooperation (and sometimes tension).

What was it about their situation that made them even closer? Some scholars say the concept of “connected fate” convinced these communities to work in partnership.

Differences in immigrant nationalities (Mexican, Cuban, Jamaican, Dominican), race (black, white, Asian, mixed race), and geography (West Coast vs. Northeast vs. American South vs. Midwest) mix to create different responses to narratives about rivalry between immigrants and ethnic groups across the country. Democrats should tailor their immigration messaging and never treat all voters the identical.

Democrats even have a number of work to do in countering Trump’s claims to be the champion of Black America: his death wish for the Central Park Five; his claim of “very good people on both sides” after neo-Nazi marches; confirmed contempt for black employees; threats of military motion against BLM protesters; the initiation of the birth movement; and his “shithole countries” comment, which deemed people from majority-black countries unworthy of immigrants.

But it isn’t enough to pull out Kanye and say, “Donald Trump doesn’t care about black people.” Democrats must show how policies actively reveal concern for the economic and private well-being of Black people. They have loads of work to do, from child tax credits and prescription drug caps to student loan forgiveness.

However, when it comes to immigration, messages need to be more direct and targeted. They should remind the general public that President Biden is on his first day in office proposed immigration reformAmerican Citizenship Act of 2021. The bill was rejected by Republicans and had no probability with a Senate filibuster.

Democrats should explain how they crafted a bipartisan immigration bill that might address essentially the most pressing points of the crisis, but Trump advised against passing it, largely to prevent a legislative victory for Biden. They also needs to reveal why the party believes that immigration is legal improves the general economy for all Americans, and although immigration has been broken under Democratic and Republican presidents, they’ve a plan to fix it.

But most significantly, Democrats must clarify that Black Americans is not going to be left behind of their vision for America and the long run in 2025. Because for these voters, being prioritized is mandatory, not optional.

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This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Politics and Current

Barack and Michelle Obama understand Kamala Harris’ loss to Trump

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Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, theGrio.com

Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama broke their silence Wednesday night after their friend Kamala Harris was defeated by Donald Trump within the 2024 presidential election.

“Clearly, this is not the outcome we had hoped for, given our deep disagreements with the Republican ticket on many issues,” Obama said in a joint statement. statement with wife Michelle Obama.

The powerful political couple, who campaigned vigorously against Trump in the ultimate weeks of the election cycle, added: “But living in a democracy is about recognizing that not every point of view will always prevail and being willing to accept a peaceful solution.” transfer of power.”

In an act of courtesy, America’s first Black president and first lady congratulated President-elect Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, just because the Obamas welcomed Donald Trump and Melania Trump to the White House when he was elected in 2016.

Despite the Democrats’ defeat, the Obamas said they “could not be more proud” of Vice President Harris and his running mate, Gov. Tim Walz, whom they called “two extraordinary servants” to “run an extraordinary campaign.”

“We will always be grateful to the employees and volunteers who poured their hearts and souls into electing public officials they truly believed in,” they continued.

Democratic presidential candidate U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns with former President Barack Obama at James R. Hallford Stadium on October 24, 2024 in Clarkston, Georgia. (Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

The Obamas were extremely vocal throughout the campaign in support of Harris and Walz. The historically politically reserved pair have been particularly critical of Trump’s character, warning voters about his embrace of racist ideologies, penchant for authoritarianism and economic policies that can profit him and his wealthy allies.

However, voters overwhelmingly selected Donald Trump because the forty seventh president of the United States. Not only has Trump surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House, but he may additionally win the favored vote after a full count of all votes nationwide.

Former President Obama sought to provide global context for Harris’ loss, acknowledging the results of the 2020 pandemic that included “price increases” and “rapid changes” that left residents feeling as in the event that they were “treading water” economically “no matter how hard they work.”

“These conditions make it difficult for Democratic officials around the world, and last night showed that America is not immune,” Obama said.

According to A report from Vox: “2024 was the biggest election year in world history; More people voted this year than ever before. “Across the world, voters have told the party in power – regardless of its ideology or history – that it is time for change.”

The Obamas said: “The good news is that these problems can be solved.” But they added that solving them would come down to Americans listening to one another and upholding “the fundamental constitutional principles and democratic norms that have made this country great.”

“In a country as large and diverse as ours, we will not always be able to see everything. However, progress requires us to show good faith – even to people with whom we deeply disagree,” they explained. “That’s how we’ve come this far, and that’s how we will continue to build a country that is fairer, more equal and more free.”

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This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Karine Jean-Pierre catches the eye of a Fox reporter who tests her with numerous questions after Donald Trump’s victory

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Karine Jean-Pierre Pops Off on Fox Reporter Who Tests Her with Loaded Questions After Donald Trump’s Victory

Two days after Donald Trump’s resounding election victory, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre’s body language spoke for just about all Democrats. She looks like she’d slightly attend a full-day insurance seminar with no bathroom breaks than one other day of answering reporters’ questions.

But it’s her job, and in two months it can be another person’s job (assuming the Trump administration allows the press to enter the White House). Until then, Jean-Pierre’s cheerful and nice demeanor will likely be put to the test.

She became visibly emotional Thursday in an interview with Fox News reporter Jacqui Heinrich after a seemingly benign query asked at her each day news conference about the Biden administration’s pre-election rhetoric.

Karine Jean-Pierre catches the eye of a Fox reporter who tests her with numerous questions after Donald Trump's victory
Left: Fox News reporter Jacqui Heinrich; Right: White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre (Photos: Fox News screenshot, Getty Images)

“This administration has given millions of Americans the message that when they wake up the day after the election, if Trump wins and takes away their rights, democracy will fall apart. And the president said today: “Everything will be fine.” Heinrich he asked“So how do we even it out?”

From there, things got touchy.

“I can fix it. “I will explain this in a way that I hope makes sense because I have answered this question many times,” he replied Jean-Pierre.

In interview for PBS two weeks before the election, President Joe Biden was putting pressure on the Republican Party candidate, just as Heinrich summarized. Biden said world leaders fear a second term for Trump, sharply criticized his close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and joked that his predecessor (and now successor) “believes in a free press like I consider I can climb Mt. Everest.”

Jean-Pierre said the comments were made before the election. This is a different reality.

“The American people have made their decision,” the press secretary continued. “The elections were held two days ago. Was! This was a free and fair election and we respect the electoral process. We do. And the Americans have spoken.”

“So the president’s job is to make sure that we respect that,” she concluded. “The president’s job is to ensure the peaceful transfer of power. This is what Americans deserve. …It’s not complicated. It’s really, really that simple.”

Heinrich’s further actions irritated the press secretary.

“What is the message to people who are afraid, given the content of (Trump’s) message?” – Heinrich asked before being interrupted by Jean-Pierre.

“Well, now you’re just twisting everything, and it’s really unfair,” she said, clearly upset. “Jackie, it is not fair because I’m standing here attempting to be respectful of what happened the last two nights, two nights ago. Showing respect. “I stand here and say we respect the decision made by the American people.”

“I stand here and say the president will put the American people first,” she continued. “I’m standing here talking about how the president will be sure they get what they deserve, which is a peaceful transition of power. I don’t love my words being twisted. I mean, I’m being very clear, very, very clear about what the president and the vp need to do. We need to be sure we deliver products for Americans. They deserve, they deserve, a peaceful transfer of power. And that is what you will see.”

And that is it for Thursday’s White House press release.

This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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8 voter suppression tactics to watch out for on Election Day [site:name]

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Mario Tama/Getty Images

Today is Election Day 2024, and candidates all over the place – from president to congress, and on the state and native levels – are making their final push to get your vote.

Unfortunately, voter suppression tactics could also be among the many strategies used to influence the end result. As a reminder, voter suppression includes any motion that makes it difficult or discourages people from voting.

As you head to the polls today, check out these 8 common voter suppression tactics that can help make sure you and others in your community can exercise their right to vote freely and fairly.

1. Discouragement within the face of long lines

No matter when or where you vote, there’s all the time a risk of encountering a line that is simply too long. Pay special attention to individuals who suggest you “leave and come back later” when lines are shorter, and even try to discourage you from voting altogether. Be sure to plan your visit to the polling place when you’ve some free time in order not to be distracted by potentially long lines.

2. Strict identification requirements

If you might be a registered voter, generally a government-issued ID card might be enough to vote. In some cases, chances are you’ll be required to show your voter registration card, but should you notice that other voters are receiving different instructions than you or anyone in your group, don’t hesitate to ask questions for clarification.

3. Unofficial “Observers” survey

While polling places in lots of states have been a comparatively hassle-free environment previously, the changing nature of this election 12 months may lead to people trying to query you or do other things to deliberately annoy you until you allow or are asked to leave. Remember to remain consistent and never give in to anyone who tries to stop you from doing what you got here to do, which is vote.

4. Last minute changes to the voting site

Try to check where your polling station is often. In some states, there’s a high likelihood that there might be changes to your voting location, and if this happens, chances are you’ll not be notified upfront.

5. Inconsistent information in regards to the opening hours of the polling station

Polling stations will open at 6:00 a.m. and shut at 9:00 p.m. on election day. Hours of operation vary by state, so make sure to check ahead of time what the hours are in your state. On the day you intend to vote, check again before you go to be sure there have been no changes that can cause you to lose your ability to vote.

6. Review of defamatory campaign ads

Read up on the candidates and where they stand on the problems that matter most to you, so you do not get easily swayed by an influx of negative campaign ads that can undoubtedly come across as a last-ditch effort to get your vote by painting the opposite candidate in a foul light. Know your candidate’s history, but additionally keep in mind that the motion plans he has outlined for the current and future will prove most vital if he’s elected president.

7. Random voter purges

If you might be faraway from the ballot for questioning, reassignment, and even being prevented from voting by an election official, stay calm and ask questions to find out what is going on fairly than leaving without voting. It’s also helpful to familiarize yourself together with your voting rights upfront, or to bring someone with you who’s at the very least minimally informed in regards to the basics.

8. Blatant bullying

Whether it’s subtle comments from other voters, offended words from protesters, or an irate election official having a foul day, don’t let anyone intimidate you to the purpose of abstaining from voting by not doing all the things you’ll be able to all the things possible to be sure your vote is counted.

The undeniable fact that these tactics are used on their very own should let you know how beneficial and powerful your voice is. Otherwise why would they struggle to suppress it, right?

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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