This is indeed an affront to people everywhere and especially to Philadelphians!!! The effrontery of this miscreant to come to Philly to gather with his cronies to begin the dismantling of essential services and rights. Here in the land of the Declaration of Independence - the Liberty Bell and the Constitution.
But the irony and insolence is not lost on us. We over understand the method to his madness. It is to signal to us (as though we didn't already know) that he has no regard for either of these principles or for the republic for which they stand, or the people they represent.
This is the beginning of a long line of his thumbing his nose at America - and thinking that he can continue to do so with impunity - because for some reason he has mistaken the concept of the presidency as a dictatorship as opposed to a democracy.
Philadelphians are turning out en masse - as well as other neighboring states and communities to make sure that he is aware that this is not going to go down. And if it's a fight he wants, it's a fight he will get.
Make sure you show up at
THOMAS PAINE PLAZA
1401 John F Kennedy Blvd
Philadelphia, PA 19102
SHUT IT DOWN!!
In the meantime, somebody should provide us with all the names, addresses and phone numbers of all the members of the Electoral College who betrayed their country by putting this miscreant in office after receiving millions of petitions and evidence to the contrary - I think there needs to be some exposure to their culpability - since they put this fool in office, they should suffer the consequences of exposure and expulsion (treason?).
In the interim - show up Philly!!!
Make your voices and wishes heard. This is not a dictatorship - this is a democracy. There is no such thing as absolute power -
On January 26, Trump and every Republican member of the House and Senate will gather in Philadelphia to meet for the first time since inauguration to plan their 2017 agenda.
SHOW UP. TAKE ACTION. TOGETHER, RESIST THEIR AGENDA. RESIST THEIR FIRST ATTACK -- ON OUR HEALTH CARE.
We, the people, stand together to resist their cynical agenda of greed, hate, and division.
Donald Trump, Paul Ryan, and their billionaire friends have revealed their first act: take away our health care to provide tax cuts for their rich friends.
We commit to take non violent direct action to resist any attempts to take away our healthcare.
And whatever is next on their agenda of greed and hate, whether it’s deporting our neighbors or building a racist registry – that will also not work. We will continue to stand together, resist, and win.
Well it's time to roll up your sleeves and get in the mix - so to speak-
Sunday will be a stand against the evisceration of President Obama's Affordable Care Act, affectionately known as OBAMACARE - at Temple University Hospital.
This is a major event that involves us all - regardless of age, gender, condition or economic standing!!!
If the repuglycons have their way, 20 million Americans will do without health care. The idea is to stop them dead in their tracks - not allow them to head directly for our doorstep.
Our First Stand Rally With Rep. Dwight Evans and Rep. Bob Brady
OFFICIAL EVENT
Now is the time to fight back and save health care!
At a time when the United States remains the only major country on earth not to guarantee health care to all as a right, the Republicans want to throw nearly 30 million people off of health insurance, make massive cuts to Medicaid and defund Planned Parenthood.
On Sunday, January 15, join Rep. Dwight Evans , Rep. Bob Brady, Pennsylvania Association of Staff Nurses & Allied Professionals and AFSCME to tell Republicans loudly and clearly: You are not going to get away with it.
RSVP does not guarantee a seat. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
State Representative W. Curtis Thomas 181st District, Philadelphia, PA
Thursday,
January 9, 2014 marked the beginning of a series of workshops for
constituents in the 181st
Legislative district of Philadelphia. Representative, W. Curtis
Thomas, cognizant of the fact that his constituents were up against
some serious challenges in gaining access to the needed insurance to
foster health and wellness, launched the program to give them one on
one interface opportunities, as opposed to trying to maneuver the
computer systems.
His
rationale, a sound one, but one obviously overlooked in other areas
and municipalities, is simply this: “Not everybody has a computer;
for those who do, it may be a little more challenging than they are
accustomed to, and so they'll not follow through, and there are so
many of our seniors who never have and never will own a computer.
The other problem is that few, if any are aware of the libraries that
may have computers, and so many of the libraries in our areas don't
have hours that are conducive to working people.”
Add
to those the problem of having a *rep-ugly-con (*republican – for
the uninitiated) governor, and you can see that it's compounded
exponentially. The Democratic legislators, elected officials and
community organizers are waging a battle against the penchant they
have for trying to deprive the needy, while simultaneously trying to
pad the pockets of the greedy.
The
event, which was hosted at the African American United Fund
Conference Center, 2231 N. Broad Street inPhiladelphia, was extremely
comprehensive, with Representatives from Resources for Human
Development (RHD), serving as Obama Care Navigatorsk on hand with
the requisite computers to make it possible for them to register on
the spot.
So,
in addition to it being an information gathering opportunity, Thomas
is making every effort to ensure his constituents don't leave without
the proper coverage.
Though
the target was his 181st
district, he stated he was not turning anyone away just because they
resided in another area. “Affordable health care is a challenge
that needs to be addressed regardless of where they live,” he
quipped.
In
speaking to the residents, he also stated that most of the dearth of
services occurred in the 25 and 22nd
police districts – which was also an area with higher than normal
crime rates; and an area that he and his staff, will be focusing on
in the future.
Like
so many other legislators, Thomas' district had been hit by
rep-ugly-con dominated gerrymandering over a period of time in order
to water down his effectiveness in serving his constituents.
However, those actions proved futile, as he has consistently provided
comprehensive, quality service and information over the decades.
He
also stated that the current governor had introduced legislation to
reduce health care for people aged 12 through 55; and reduce the
CHIP (children's health insurance program) so that it covers children
ages 0 to 18. He is trying to reduce it to age 12, and if he can get
away with it, to age 6!!! This would leave a dearth of health care
for the most vulnerable.
“We
have over 3000 reports of neglect and abuse every month, ' he stated.
“And it takes action on the part of everybody. Some people think
you can pray it away; or you can throw empty promises at it, and it
will disappear. I don't and won't walk away. I used to get upset
when people called me 'old head'. Now it's been changed to 'O.G' –
which they say means a source of wisdom – so it's okay with me
now.”
He
is heartened by the fact that despite the governor's efforts, the new
State Attorney General has vowed to keep the Affordable Health Care
program affordable.
The
important thing he wanted to be sure the constituents understood was
the difference between market rate insurance programs under the
Affordable Care Act, and those that were subsidized, for families who
were either at or below the poverty level.
“It's
a major consideration when you realize that the price for affordable
insurance, if you're gainfully employed, is relatively manageable,
and is deducted from your salary – however, it's entirely different
if the cost of the care is the same as the income you receive. With
so many at that level, making sure they are enrolled in the correct
program is absolutely necessary.”
The
RHD Health Insurance Navigator Program, which was one of the
presenters, featured Ms. Wendy Davis, program director, who explained
the differences between Market and Subsidized programs. She
indicated that there were several other navigator programs as well,
some of which were authorized to do home visits for those seniors and
elderly, and those operating under diminished capacity. Www.rhd.org,
855.668.9536.
Ms.
Davis indicated that her organization was a comprehensive program
that offered a myriad of services in the greater Philadelphia area,
including job training and opportunities. They had been given a
grant and a temporary contract to assist with the enrollment roll
out. When I asked why it was temporary, with so many people needing
assistance, it seemed rather short sighted on the part of the
government.
Each
workshop participant was provided with a hard copy of the enrollment
form for the ACA, and the facilitator went through it point by point.
A few constituents came with the required documents and were
enrolled on the spot. Others received comprehensive information on
how to choose an insurance plan and how to enroll. A representative
from the PA Department of Public Welfare was on hand to discuss the
expanded Medicaid plan and eligibility requirements.
According
to Representative Thomas, Philadelphia has one of the highest
population of senior citizens of any major urban area. He indicated
that he would be offering additional workshops on the 20th
and 28th
of January, and on through the end of March if necessary to ensure,
to the extent possible, that his constituents had every opportunity
to enroll. He looked to enlist the assistance of the local churches
as well in getting people enrolled.
“I
know that there are many who are embarrassed to admit that they
either don't own an computer, or that they don't understand how to
enroll. Some may not even know we're offering these programs, so
we'll be doing some door to door canvassing of the area to make sure
that they are aware and participate.”
There
is a distinct learning curve in filing forms online, and those who
have not had the advantage of computer training should check in their
respective communities or with their legislative representatives to
find out when and where workshops are being offered in their
communities. This is as important in New York as it is in
Philadelphia; in DC as it is in Oklahoma City; in California as it is
in Mississippi; in Atlanta as it is in Ohio – you get my drift.
This is a nationally comprehensive law, and the law of the land must
be upheld and implemented.
Your contributions help me stay online; Thank you for your generosity - GDWilson
Regardless
of where you are, who you are, what race, age, or gender you are –
you need to enroll for comprehensive insurance under the Affordable
Care Act. Representative W. Curtis Thomas is a shining example of a
legislator who cares about his people and their well being. He is
walking his talk.
And,
while I'm sure there may be others, we all know that there are just
as many who could care less – especially in repuglycon dominated
states. However, there are just as many in Democratic states who are
taking things for granted, and overlooking the fact, that for all
practical purposes, many of their constituents are relatively
computer illiterate – or don't possess computers at all. Just
because we see them on TV and in the movies, does not mean that
everyone has one at home, or that they know how to use them.
As
a constituent and a part of WE, THE PEOPLE, you are each empowered –
individually and collectively - to demand that they provide you with
the information and services to make it possible for you to receive
the information on a face to face basis, so you can enroll in an
informed manner. Whether you have a computer or not, they should be
facilitating you with the services you require.
Now
is the time to request this – it will be March 31 before you know
it. Contact the office local, state or government representative,
and request (demand) the assistance be provided you.
It's
your life, your health, your country, your government, your city, your
state, your representative(s) - they're either working for you or
against you - there is no neutral. 2014 is the year where the rubber
meets the road. It's time to take out the trash - those who don't have
your best interest at heart - and you can see that through their good
works - or lack thereof - have to go. And those who are, make sure you
back them up. - (c) 1/14/14/GDWENTERPRISES ###
Stay Blessed & ECLECTICALLY BLACK Gloria Dulan-Wilson
2014 has started out with a bang - virtually on roller blades, and this month is full of events, from the serious to the humorous and points in between. I'm only going to list the highlights - events I feel you definitely want to be a part of:
PHILADELPHIA,
Thomas
sponsors workshop on Affordable Healthcare enrollment
Thursday, January 9, 2014 at the African American United Fund
Conference Center, 2231 N. Broad Street. 6:00 PM
Residents of the 181st
Legislative District of Philadelphia, who need health insurance, State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas, in
cooperation with the African American United Fund, is sponsoring a workshop on affordable health care Learn more about the Affordable Healthcare Program and how to enroll.
Representatives from Resources for Human Development (RHD) will
discuss how to choose an insurance plan and how to enroll.A
representative from the PA Department of Public Welfare will also be
on hand to discuss Pennsylvania’s expanded Medicaid plan and who
may be eligible to participate.
Representative W. Curtis Thomas
“Everyone
must have health insurance by March 31, 2014 or face penalties,”
explained Thomas. “Many folks need health insurance but don’t
know how to navigate the website or are confused when it comes to
choosing a plan. That’s why we’ve arranged for onsite enrollment
assistance for those who need help. Don’t miss this opportunity!”
RHD
will have staff available to enroll people onsite. If you want to
enroll at the workshop you must bring the following information:
Social
Security numbers (or document numbers for legal immigrants)
Employer
and income information for every member of your household who needs
coverage (for example, from pay stubs or W-2forms—Wage and Tax
Statements)
Policy
numbers for any currenthealth insurance
plans covering members of your household.
Those who want to be enrolled at
the workshop should contact Natalie Davis at 215/560-3261
to register for enrollment. Space is limited.
The important thing about this is that if you either don't have a computer, or don't understand the differences between market rate and the special subsidized insurance programs, this will help you make the right decision. So make sure you bring ALL YOUR DOCUMENTS, and get it done.
Now many of us have seen Dick Gregory and Paul Mooney perform, but we have never seen them perform TOGETHER. I actually don't know if we can stand both of them, at the same time, in the same place on the same stage - all that comedy, coupled with all that wisdom, compounded with all that Blackness - Philly, I said it before, and it bears repeating: You had better bring the duct tape, you're going to need it to keep your sides from splitting. According to Benita Carruth
"Excitement
is in the air in Tri State area as anticipation builds about the
historic "Godfathers Of Comedy" Show featuring Paul Mooney and Dick
Gregory in Philly !!!!! This show is going to be EXPLOSIVE!!!!! And
consequently, the show takes place on another historic "Groundbreaker's"
birthday, Dr Martin Luther King! The commentary on the trailer of "The
Groundbreaker", a biopic of Mustafa Majeed, and CISC will be done by
none other than Warrington Hudlin (Director and Producer of "Boomerang"
and "House Party"). Live Performances by Aviance Musiq, Carlin Randolph,
Erma Holmes , Charles Walden, Ronnie Long, Cheney University Band, and many many more! Vendors, Food, and Drinks Will Be Available !!!! Tickets: General Admission $40 (in Adv/Online), $50@ DOOR, VIP $60 ".See you there -
WASHINGTON, DC
January 11, 2014 NACA HOLDS GALA - It's time to celebrate!! NACA, which stands for the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America - was out there fighting the good fight for equitable, affordable home ownership long before the bubble burst and everybody ran for cover. I "discovered" them seven years ago when my constituents for the program I headed up in Brooklyn, were losing their homes at an alarming rate - that was 2007. They came in to Brooklyn and did what the other organizations were not able to do, save homes, and save sanity at the same time. It's no secret that they are my absolutely favorite organization of all times, because what they do is tangible and real. Those of you in the New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and DC areas - whether you've benefited from NACA in the past, or are looking to be involved with them in the future, certainly ought to be at the Gala this Saturday, January 11.
NACA’s
American Dream 2014 Gala
Saturday, January 11th, 2014
Cocktail Reception 6:00 p.m.
Dinner and Program 7:00 p.m.
Dance Party – into the night
Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill
Columbia Ballroom
400 New Jersey Ave., NW,
Washington, District of Columbia, 20001
NACA is celebrating more than two decades of making the dream of
homeownership a reality and redefining the way
lending is done in America. As a non-profit community advocacy and
homeownership organization with the active participation of over one
million members, NACA continues to set the national standard in
providing affordable homeownership. We come together to
commemorate the hundreds of thousands of homeowners and homebuyers who,
through NACA, have been able to realize the dream of affordable
homeownership; and the extraordinary 130 American Dream Events over the
past five years. These accomplishments would not have
been possible without the active participation of our members, partners
and supporters.
During the gala we will be announcing the American Dream Events for 2014
as well as our new initiatives and campaigns for economic justice. T
This
formal event (Black Tie optional) dinner and celebration with over one
thousand attendees will be an evening to
remember, with delectable food, and dancing into the night. We will be
joined by celebrities, dignitaries, regulators, industry leaders, civil
rights leaders and other special guests. It is our distinct honor to
celebrate NACA’s tremendous success with you.
For more information and to follow-up contact Daniel Perez Lacera at 617-250-6222 ext. 1218 or email
dperez@naca.com.
PLEASE NOTE: This gala is also the kick off of NACA's Annual Meeting week in Washington during
which they will be visiting all the Members of
Congress, the following Tuesday, January 14 and Wednesday, January 15. For those interested in participating in these conferences, please contact Daniel Perez Lacera at 617-250-6222 ext. 1218 or email
dperez@naca.com; or convention@naca.com. The issue of affordable housing, predatory lending, foreclosure prevention, and other viable concerns are more important than ever. It behooves all of us to be in the forefront of making sure that Congress does not take for granted the seriousness with which the American people regard these concerns.
NOTE: For those of you who are not familiar with NACA, or are trying to find out about a NACA affiliate in your area, log on to www.naca.com.
These event alert specials will pop up from time to time as I receive them. I try to circulate them to you in a timely manner. As mentioned before, I'm expanding my blog, and will be focusing on events that go on throughout the US and Caribbean Diaspora and Africa -- where ever we are, and what ever is relevant and positive. I look forward to this year being one of greater information between ECLECTICALLY BLACK NEWS, and my brothers, sisters, friends, followers, across the board.
HAPPY NEW YEAR and a Blessed, Prosperous and Loving 2014.
