Dear Friends and Neighbors, |
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The troubling trend of violent incidents against members of the Asian community unfortunately continues nationwide. COVID misinformation and existing prejudice have created a toxic mix that has fueled these incidents.
Yesterday, in Jamaica, Queens, I stood in solidarity with community leaders, residents, and elected officials during a rally hosted by Kevin Livingston of 100 Suits for 100 Men - a non-profit organization in the New York City area.
We all came together to speak out against the deplorable increase in assaults on Asian New Yorkers across the city. We can combat this trend and to do this, we must work together.
I am urging members of the public to report these crimes in real time. When you report a hate crime in progress, the chance of the perpetrator being caught is increased. The sooner the police can gather evidence, the stronger the case. So much evidence can be time-sensitive, like surveillance video, cell phone records and witness accounts.
Our dedicated Hate Crimes Bureau works closely with the NYPD's Hate Crime Task Force to investigate and prosecute cases of hate crimes throughout Queens County. If you need help, contact the Bureau via 718-286-7010 or HateCrimes@queensda.org.
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In Friendship,
Melinda Katz
Queens District Attorney
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Mail carrier charged with stealing credit card from mail route and using it to pay for $8,000 plastic surgery
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Women's History Celebration |
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It gave me great pleasure to host a special celebration in honor of Women's History Month yesterday evening.
Our Keynote Speaker, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett (US Virgin Islands), gave a powerful speech on what we - as women - have accomplished in this country and the battles for equality that remain.
The program also included special performances by wonderful female artists and honored these Queens community leaders:
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Victoria Schneps, Schneps Communications and the Queens Courier and TimesLedger Groups
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Rev. Dr. Maria L. Hubbard, Agape Faith Ministries and Agape Bethel CDC
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Carolyn Dixon, Where Do We Go From Here, Inc.
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CISTA GIRLS, accepted by President and Founder Sandi Pope
All of the honorees represent the best of Queens County and we are grateful to them for the services they provide to the residents of this borough. If you missed the event, you can still watch it on our Facebook page.
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Monday marks the somber 30 year anniversary since the death of Manuel Mayi, who was killed in Corona, Queens at just 18 years old. The grief felt by his family and loved ones is compounded by years of unanswered questions.
No matter how much time passes, our search for justice does not diminish. As part of our weekly call for help, I am asking for any information regarding his death. Contact NYPD Crimestoppers with any information - no matter how insignificant the details may seem. All tips are confidential.
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Beware of a New Scam: COVID-19 Survey |
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The Federal Trade Commission is warning the public to beware of a new scam fraudsters are using to steal your money and personal information - a bogus COVID vaccine survey.
According to the agency, people across the country report receiving emails and texts, asking them to complete a limited-time survey about the Pfizer, Moderna, or AstraZeneca vaccine. In exchange, people are offered a free reward, but asked to pay shipping fees. Learn more by clicking here.
Remember to never click on any attachments in emails or texts from an unverified source. If you receive correspondence that you believe may be a scam, report it to the FTC by visiting ReportFraud.FTC.gov.
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Stand Against Racism, Bigotry and Discrimination |
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The Korean American Association of Greater New York (KAAGNY) partnered with the American Jewish Council, the Hispanic Federation, NAACP, and the Asian American Federation to host an "Allyship & Solutions Against Racism, Discrimination, and Hate" webinar this week.
The event brought together a diverse panel of community leaders to raise awareness of anti-Asian violence and discuss solutions to stop the hate.
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The Impact of COVID-19 on Women |
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A Better NY, a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth and renewal of New York City’s people and businesses, convened an important panel in the context of Women's History Month.
Titled "The Impact of COVID-19 on Women of NY," the panel featured community and business leaders to discuss the pandemic's effect on working women and mothers throughout the City.
I was grateful for the opportunity to participate and speak to the critical issue of community obligations and gender equity in the workplace.
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Human Trafficking Awareness |
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Human trafficking is not just a global issue. Forced labor and sexual exploitation is unfortunately happening in our backyards.
Within the first six months of my administration, I created a dedicated Human Trafficking Bureau solely for the purpose of combating human trafficking in Queens County. This week, Bureau Chief Jessica Melton and I had the opportunity to speak during a panel discussion, hosted by the Queens Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., about the innovative approaches taken by this Office in combatting trafficking and connecting victims with the vital resources to escape their abusers.
If you or someone you know may be a victim, contact the Bureau at 718-286-6548 or HumanTrafficking@queensda.org. We're here to help.
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Food Distribution for Passover |
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Many families throughout Queens County continue to struggle with food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This office is proud to support the many humanitarian organizations, as well as their tireless volunteers, who help us stay strong during ongoing challenges.
Over the weekend, Tomchei Shabbos of Queens and Shimi Pelman organized a pre Passover food distribution for those in need, with close to 500 packages distributed to families across the borough.
Although this year's Passover celebrations look very differently, I wish you everyone good health, peace, and happiness during this holiday and the upcoming year.
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