Author: DAMON K JONES
I want to address the recent information shared by AJ Woodson, Editor-In-Chief of Black Westchester, regarding the response from the County Executive Office to my article and video in light of the Westchester County Correction Officers Benevolent Association’s (COBA) claim that the county offered a two-year deal for 3 percent each year, which was later proven to be false. Having dedicated 33 years to the department, with 13 years as a union delegate and involvement in two contract negotiation committees, one of which resulted in correction officers becoming the highest-paid in the county, under then COBA President Joseph K. Spano,…
We are excited to invite you to the Black Westchester presents The People Before Politics Radio Show—Episode 385—Pre-Election Day Show, where we will engage in thoughtful discussions about the various candidates from across Westchester County. This event promises to be an informative and engaging platform to help you make an informed decision on Election Day. As active community members, it’s essential to stay informed about the candidates running for various positions in Westchester County. The decisions made by our local leaders have a direct impact on our lives, and it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of their platforms and…
In recent county contract negotiations with the Westchester County Correction Officers Association (COBA), the George Latimer administration offered a mere 2-year deal, providing a 3% increase for 2020 and another 3% for 2021, totaling just 6%. However, County Executive George Latimer’s statement on the Westchester County website claims that the agreement with the District Attorney’s Investigators PBA aligns with other union agreements. This contract spans five years, from 2020 to 2024, with increases as follows: 3% in 2020, 3% in 2021, 2% in 2022, 2% in 2023, and 2.75% in 2024. The question arises: Why have the hardworking correction officers…
Marriage is a complex journey that involves two individuals with unique backgrounds and personalities coming together. A healthy and successful marriage often hinges on adopting a “marriage mindset” or a “we mindset,” which prioritizes the well-being of the relationship as a whole. In this essay, we explore the significance of this mindset and its key aspects that contribute to a strong and enduring marital union. Contrary to some mainstream media messages that promote a “single mindset” over a marriage mindset, focusing solely on personal interests in a marriage can lead to various complications and challenges. While it’s important for individuals…
In recent years, marriage within the Black community has faced substantial challenges, with high divorce rates casting a shadow on the promise of enduring love and commitment. While the complexities of modern relationships cannot be solely attributed to divorce rates, these statistics undeniably shape the landscape of Black marriages and the survival of Black communities. The Stark Divorce Statistics The numbers concerning divorce rates among Black couples are alarming. Multiple studies reveal that the divorce rate among Black marriages in the United States surpasses that of other racial and ethnic groups. This stark reality has sparked discussions about why Black…
NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of Louis A. Molina as assistant deputy mayor for public safety. Molina currently serves as the commissioner of the New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC). As assistant deputy mayor, Molina will be tasked with coordinating with all city agencies on public safety matters to ensure they align with Mayor Adams’ vision to keep every New Yorker safe. “Public safety and justice are the prerequisites to prosperity, and that’s why, every day, Louis Molina gets up and ensures we are delivering both those priorities to those in our…
Because finding love and keeping it requires going inward, the first place you need to look is within yourself if you want to either find your faithful Black Love or keep the Black Love you already have. If you want to see your true love or soul mate, going through this exercise first is a good idea. It is an excellent process to go through. Since relationships tend to resonate at the same energetic level, if you want to be a part of a happy and affectionate relationship, you must first be happy and affectionate yourself before you can expect…
Stereotypes and assumptions about gender have existed for centuries, perpetuating harmful generalizations about both men and women. Recently, there has been a growing awareness of the need to challenge these stereotypes about Black men in particular. Stereotypes that warrant attention include the assumption that all Black men are inherently dishonest, disloyal, disrespectful, selfish, neglectful, abusive, or avoidant of responsibilities. This assumption is not only detrimental to men but also hinders progress toward healthy relationships between Black men and women. In this article, we will explore the origins of this stereotype, its consequences, and why it is crucial to challenge and…
There has been a concerning lack of attention to the health and well-being of Black men, and it’s crucial that we raise awareness about improving their health and addressing the health disparities they face. This realization struck me when I heard an artist speak at the BET Awards, urging Black men to support Black women in the fight for women’s rights and reproductive health. While this cause is undeniably important, it’s disheartening to see that Black men remain largely invisible in the national conversation about health, both to the broader public and even within the Black community’s efforts to promote…
In the grand symphony of life, each of us holds the conductor’s baton, directing the destiny of our own existence. Every choice we make, every person we allow into our inner circle, contributes to the harmony or dissonance of our life’s composition. It is with this profound awareness that we should navigate our paths, purposefully avoiding the cacophony of negativity that can emanate from both people and situations. Consider your life as a blank canvas, a masterpiece in the making. You alone hold the brush and should wield it with the utmost care. The individuals you invite into your world…