Warren、Healey，吳弭等民代、民眾上街頭 譴責美最高法院推翻墮胎權案例

民代及反禁止墮胎人士聚集在麻州州政府大樓前譴責美國最高法院的裁決。 (周菊子攝)

             (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導) 美國最高法院今 (24) 日以6比3票推翻50年前的Roe V Wade法案，廢除女性墮胎權。消息傳出後，各界” 炸鍋” ，聯邦，州，市的民代及官員紛紛走上街頭，譴責最高法院的決定，連拜登總統都發聲明要保護婦女獲得醫療的權利。

聯邦參議員Elizabeth Warren 揚言最後決定絕不在這些大法官手中。(周菊子攝)

              麻州州長查理貝克 (Charlie Baker)也在第一時間簽署行政命令，聲言保護婦女的選擇權，獲得醫療服務權，同時也將保護位婦女提供墮胎服務的機構及人員。

                            最高法院推翻Roe V. Wade案的裁決，意味著關於墮胎權，將留交國會和各州來決定。

              在Roe v Wade案被推翻後，大都在美國南部及中西部的13州，已經有禁止墮胎的法令。另有大約6州，爭議懷孕到什麼時候之前可以墮胎。

      華盛頓郵報指出，最高法院今日推翻了大約在50年前，經Roe V Wade法案所訂的墮胎為基本權利法，將容許各州自由的大幅縮減婦女在墮胎方面的相關權益，甚至直接把墮胎訂定為違法行為。

波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu)談及做為移民子女，她有時不知自己的歸屬，但深知父母
為了讓下一代生活得更好，才移民，犧牲很大時，眼眶泛淚。 (周菊子攝)

              這6比3票，本來只是支持密西西州的有限制性法案。美國最高法院首席法官John G. Roberts批評他的保守派同事，採取額外步驟，推翻了Roe和計畫生育對抗Casey案，一宗在1999年裁決，重新確認墮胎憲法權的案子。

麻州總檢察長奚莉 (Maura Healey) 發言時語氣激動，一連串說"I promise you"的
做了多項承諾。(周菊子攝)

                             在Samuel A. Alito, Jr.撰寫的最後意見裁決文上，贊成的法官還有Clarence Thomas，Neil Gorsuch， Brett Kavanaugh ，以及Amy Coney Barrett。持不同意見的法官為Stephen Breyer， Sonia Sotomayor，以及 Elena Kagan等3人。

              一旦Roe v Wade案被推翻後，美國有大都在南部及中西部的13州，已經有禁止墮胎的法令。另有大約6州，爭議將在什麼時候可以墮胎。

              根據支持墮胎權的Guttmacher 研究院整理的數據，90%以上的墮胎都是在懷孕後的頭13個星期做的，現在有一半以上的墮胎都是用藥片，而不是手術來完成的。

聯邦及州市民代，以及反禁制墮胎人士在麻州州政府大樓前輪番發言。 (周菊子攝)

              代表麻州的聯邦參議員Elizabeth Warren，麻州總檢察長奚莉(Maura Healey) ，波士頓市長吳弭 (Michelle Wu) ，以及許多名州市議員，在現在就生育公平 (Reproductive Equity Now)主任Rebecca Hart Holder的主持中，匯聚在麻州州政府的金鼎大樓前，一一發言，表達他們對這裁決感到憤怒，揚言麻州絕不會回到重前。

              Elizabeth Warren批評那6

轄區在昆士市的麻州參議員John Kenan (右一)也出席支持反禁止墮胎。 (周菊子攝)

名法官為極端份子，認為他們可以強迫美國人向他們個人的宗教及道德觀點低頭。她說人們必須讓他們知道，他們並不是有最後決定權的人。她表示自己十分氣憤，因為她經歷過婦女沒有墮胎權保護的那些年頭。那時候，有錢，有資源的人，一樣可以得到他們想要的墮胎，但是那些貧窮的女性，有色人種，或是十幾歲，被教練性侵的女孩及青少年，以及那些已經忙著要打兩、三份工來維持家計的女性們，得為這法案付出代價。

              吳弭說，絕大多數的美國人已經表達了不希望Roe V Wade案被推翻的意願，那些法官對這法案會對人們有些什麼影響根本沒概念。吳弭表示，她作為一名在美國長大的移民子女，有時候會覺得不知道自己到底歸屬何方，但她對父母所做的犧牲，所留傳的價值，遠見，以及確保下一代過得更好承諾，一直有很深刻的了解。她說當知道她的下一代可能不會過得更好時，很讓人傷心。她說當人們站出來支持正義時，所有人都獲益。麻州人要攜手和其他州合作，確保美國夢可以持續。

             奚莉 (Maura Healey)說，今天發生的這事，讓人非常痛心。她去拜訪過好些個計劃生育診所，知道有些人甚至面對生命威脅。她說這是對女性的攻擊，是壓制，邊緣化，弱小化女性的行動。作為一名總檢察官，眼見法官做出這樣的決定，她真的非常痛心，但這就是現在社會中發生的事。她說受影響最大的其實是貧窮的，有色的人種， 60%的墮胎是已經有小孩的人做的。還要有多少家庭被這法案推到懸崖邊緣。

              奚莉藉此案強調，這就是選舉的意義所在，也所以選舉是重要的。奚莉表示，她可以做幾項承諾，包括承諾麻州將支持代表麻州的聯邦議員們，在聯邦政府那兒通過法案，矯正此裁決；麻州州長查理貝克剛簽署的保護醫療提供者，保護病人的行政命令將持續有效，麻州也會儘快立法，落實這保障；她作為麻州總檢察長還將保證麻州內沒有人會被調查，被捕，或被威嚇。

              奚莉和”現在就生育公平 (Reproductive Equity Now)”主任Rebecca Hart Holder今日在GBH上聯名發表了一篇評論文章，指稱禁止墮胎不只是性別平等議題，也是經濟正義議題，對美國經濟將有負面影響。如果沒有這禁令，將有多達50萬名婦女可以加入就業行列。 (更新版)

美國國會亞裔黨團主席趙美心表示最高法院關於Roe案裁決令她憤怒

 CAPAC Chair Statement Following the Supreme Court Overturning of Roe v. Wade

 

Washington, D.C. — Today, the Supreme Court announced their decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturning Roe v. Wade — which has been law of the land for nearly fifty years.  Rep. Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), has released the following statement:

 

“I was outraged to learn of the Supreme Court’s decision this morning concerning Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization — however, I was not shocked. Far-right Republicans have been signaling for years their intent to overturn Roe v. Wade and today’s decision is the culmination of decades of extremist anti-abortion strategy.

 

“This ruling will harm women and families everywhere — with restricted access to abortion disproportionally impacting people of color. Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) women already face numerous barriers — including language, economic and legal obstacles — when trying to access healthcare, particularly in regard to contraception and family planning care. It is imperative Congress acts immediately to enshrine Roe and ensure AANHPI communities — and communities all across our nation — can exercise their personal freedom and make decisions alongside health care professionals and their families about their own bodies.”

President Biden Announces Actions In Light of Today’s Supreme Court Decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization

President Biden Announces Actions In Light of Today’s Supreme Court Decision on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization

 
Today, President Biden announced actions that his Administration is taking to protect women who will face the grave consequences of today’s Supreme Court decision. This decision expressly took away a Constitutional right from the American people that it had recognized for nearly 50 years – a woman’s right to choose, free from government interference.

This decision will have devastating consequences in the lives of women around the country.

The President made clear that the only way to secure a woman’s right to choose is for Congress to restore the protections of Roe as federal law. Until then, he has announced two actions the Administration is taking to protect women.

Protecting the Right to Seek Medical Care

As the Attorney General made clear, women must remain free to travel safely to another state to seek the care they need.

A person has the right to travel between states for whatever reason they want – it is no one else’s business – especially the government’s. If a woman lives in a state that restricts abortion, the Supreme Court’s decision does not prevent her from traveling from her home to a state that allows it.

If any state or local official tries to interfere with women exercising this basic right, the Biden Administration will fight that deeply un-American attack.

Protecting Access to Medication

The President directed the Secretary of Health and Human Services to protect women’s access to critical medications for reproductive health care that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration—including essential preventive health care like contraception and medication abortion.

More than 20 years ago, the FDA approved mifepristone to safely end an early pregnancy; this drug is also commonly used to treat miscarriages. The American Medical Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists wrote to President Biden and Vice President Harris, asking the federal government to protect access to this care. In the face of threats from state officials saying they will try to ban or severely restrict access to medication for reproductive health care, the President directed the Secretary of Health and Human Services to identify all ways to ensure that mifepristone is as widely accessible as possible in light of the FDA’s determination that the drug is safe and effective—including when prescribed through telehealth and sent by mail.

AAJC Predicts Devastating Consequences from Latest SCOTUS Decision on Abortion Care Rights

 Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC Predicts Devastating Consequences from Latest SCOTUS Decision on Abortion Care Rights

WASHINGTON, D.C. – June 24, 2022 – In a 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade through its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. The decision will now allow individual states to ban or end the legal right to abortion. In response, Asian Americans Advancing Justice – AAJC (Advancing Justice – AAJC) issues the following statement.

John C. Yang, President and Executive Director of Advancing Justice – AAJC says:

“The decision in Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women’s Health Organization is tragically wrong – overturning decades of established precedent, eroding basic human rights for millions of Americans and taking our country backwards and endangering many other civil liberties we take for granted. We filed an amicus brief in this case with the National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum because of our concern for the Asian American and broader immigrant community. Given that Asian Americans are among the fastest-growing populations nationwide with nearly two-thirds of the population being foreign-born, we have grave concerns about the impact this decision will have on our communities. Bans on abortion care are going to heighten fears of adverse immigration consequences for undocumented individuals, refugees, and other immigrants regardless of their immigrant status. We will need to come together to find a way to support our communities while we explore every course of action to reclaim this fundamental human right.”

Eri Andriola, Staff Attorney for Litigation at Advancing Justice – AAJC says:

“Every individual should have autonomy over their own bodies, and our laws should reflect that value. We are angry and frustrated by the ruling today. Its impact will be felt swiftly and will be devastating for communities of color, working poor individuals, and immigrants. The decision will effectively end legal abortion in at least twenty-two states, several of which are home to large and growing AAPI communities. The rolling back of reproductive rights by banning access to abortion care is going to jeopardize the well-being and financial stability for millions of Asian American individuals and families. The road back to protecting our rights is long, but we are prepared for the fight.”

劉雲平稱許通過不分黨派的槍枝安全法

REP LIEU APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF BIPARTISAN GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION

 

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) issued the following statement after both the House and Senate passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a commonsense, bipartisan gun safety package to reduce the threat of gun violence and save lives. The bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.  

“As America confronts a rising tide in gun violence, I’m pleased Congress was able to come together to pass legislation that will make our communities safer. While more action is needed to address gun violence in America, this bill is a step in the right direction. The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act will help keep deadly weapons out of dangerous hands; crack down on gun trafficking and straw purchases; enhance background checks for people under 21; and more. As we send this important legislation to President Biden’s desk, we are thinking of all victims of gun violence and their families. Democrats will never stop fighting for a future free from gun violence.”

The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act will:

• Support State Crisis Intervention Orders: Creates $750 million for states to create and administer laws that will ensure deadly weapons are kept out of the hands of individuals determined by a court to be a significant danger to themselves or others, and for extreme risk protection orders that have sufficient due process.
• Protect Victims of Domestic Violence by Closing the Boyfriend Loophole: Adds convicted domestic violence abusers in dating relationships to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).
• Ban Gun Trafficking & Crack Down on Straw Purchases: Cracks down on criminals who illegally evade licensing requirements and clarifies which sellers need to register, conduct background checks, and keep appropriate records, and creates federal straw purchasing and trafficking criminal offenses for the first time, allowing prosecutors to target dangerous illegal gunrunners.
• Enhance Background Checks for People Under 21: Requires an investigative period to review juvenile and mental health records, including checks with state databases and local law enforcement, for buyers under 21 years of age, creating an enhanced, longer background check of up to ten days.
• Support Anti-Violence Community Initiatives: Provides $250 million in funding for community-based violence prevention initiatives. 
• Invest in Children & Family Mental Health Services: Supports the national expansion of community behavioral health center model; improves access to mental health services for children, youth, and families through the Medicaid program and CHIP; increases access to mental health services for youth and families in crisis via telehealth; and provides major investments at the Department of Health and Human Services to programs that expand provider training in mental health, support suicide prevention, crisis and trauma intervention and recovery.
• Invest in Safe Schools: Invests in programs to expand mental health and supportive services in schools, including: early identification and intervention programs, school-based mental health and wrap-around services, improvements to school-wide learning conditions, and school safety.

###

 

Congressman Lieu is a member of the House Foreign Affairs and House Judiciary Committees, and serves as a Co-Chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee. Mr. Lieu is a veteran, having served on Active Duty in the Air Force.
LIEU.HOUSE.GOV

美最高法院推翻墮胎權裁決 麻州民主黨稱今日為黑暗日

 Massachusetts State Democratic Party Statement on the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade Decision 

BOSTON - Massachusetts State Democratic Party Chair Gus Bickford today released the following statement on the news of the United States Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade. 

“Today’s news has sent shockwaves across our country and we, first and foremost, stand in unwavering solidarity with the women of Massachusetts and the United States. Massachusetts has some of the strongest reproductive equity laws in the nation and abortion remains legal in Massachusetts thanks to advocacy from local leaders and the actions of Democrats on Beacon Hill. Despite that, we will not simply stand by as the basic human rights of women are stolen elsewhere. Many Republicans have worked diligently and systematically for years to ensure this day would come while others in the GOP have remained pathetically silent and looked the other way. Either way, history will take note. What Republicans surely did not expect is the response this will mobilize in all 50 states. This is a dark day in America, but we will not be deterred in our pursuit to right this wrong. It is Democrats who will ensure we restore these protections and honor a person’s right to make decisions about their own body.”

Massachusetts Democratic Party

麻州州長查理貝克簽行政命令 保護婦女墮胎權

麻州州長Charlie Baker 藉推特告訴麻州人民他支持婦女的墮胎權。

(Boston Orange 編譯) 麻州州長查理貝克 (Charlie Baker) 未回應美國最高法院推翻了 Roe V Wade裁決，今 (23) 日簽署了行政命令，以保護人們在麻州獲得生產醫療服務的機會。

             查理貝克表示，「我對最高法院今天的決定深感失望，這將對住在美國各地的婦女有重大影響，限制了她們可獲得的醫療保險服務。麻州在保護婦女選擇即獲得生育醫療保險服務的權利上，一直是領袖，而其他州卻把這罪犯化了，或者只給予有限的服務。

             查理貝克說，「這行政命令將進一步保存這權力，並保護為麻州以外居民服務的生育醫療護理提供者。在最高法院裁決推翻了未回應美國最高法院推翻了 Roe V Wade裁決之際，確保麻州服務提供者可以繼續提供生育醫療服務，而不需恐懼其他州的法令可能被用來干預那些服務，或禁止他們提供在麻州是合法的服務。

             麻州副州長白莉朵 (Karen Polito)也說，「我們為麻州確保人們獲得生育醫療護理的歷史，感到非常驕傲，經由簽署行政命令等行動，麻州在保護婦女選擇權上又再領路前行。

             有幾個州已經立法，把提供墮胎，以及其他生育醫療服務定為犯罪行為。

             這行政命令將禁止任何行政部門機構協助其他州調查個人或實體，接受或提供在麻州是合法的生育醫療服務。

             這命令也保護麻州提供生育醫療服務的供應者，不致於因為提供生育醫療服務而失去專業證照，或者因為潛在的外州費用受到其他專業處罰。

             在這行政命令下，當其他州要求遣送，以刑事處罰在麻州接受，協助或執行生育醫療服務的個別人士時，麻州將不會合作。

             查詢行政命令全文，可點擊https://www.mass.gov/executive-orders/no-600-protecting-access-to-reproductive-health-care-services-in-the-commonwealth?n。

Governor Baker Signs Executive Order to Protect Access to Reproductive Health Care Services

 

BOSTON – Today, in response to the US Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v Wade, Governor Charlie Baker signed an executive order to protect access to reproductive health care services in the Commonwealth.

 

“I am deeply disappointed in today’s decision by the Supreme Court which will have major consequences for women across the country who live in states with limited access to reproductive health care services. The Commonwealth has long been a leader in protecting a woman’s right to choose and access to reproductive health services, while other states have criminalized or otherwise restricted access,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This executive order will further preserve that right and protect reproductive health care providers who serve out of state residents. In light of the Supreme Court’s ruling overturning Roe v Wade, it is especially important to ensure that Massachusetts providers can continue to provide reproductive health care services without concern that the laws of other states may be used to interfere with those services or sanction them for providing services that are lawful in the Commonwealth.”

 

“We are proud of the Commonwealth’s history of ensuring access to reproductive health care, and will continue to do so, despite today’s ruling from the Supreme Court,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “With these actions, Massachusetts is once again leading the way in protecting a woman’s right to choose.”

 

Several other states have imposed laws that would criminalize providing abortions and other reproductive health services, and this executive order would protect providers who perform these services for out of state individuals as well as individuals from out of state who seek services that are lawful in Massachusetts.

 

The order prohibits any Executive Department agencies from assisting another state’s investigation into a person or entity for receiving or delivering reproductive health services that are legal in Massachusetts.

 

The order also protects Massachusetts providers who deliver reproductive health care services from losing their professional licenses or receiving other professional discipline based on potential out of state charges.

 

Under the executive order, the Commonwealth will not cooperate with extradition requests from other states pursuing criminal charges against individuals who received, assisted with, or performed reproductive health services that are legal in Massachusetts.

 

Click here to view the Executive Order.

美國會亞裔黨團悼念陳果仁被謀殺40週年

CAPAC Members Commemorate the 40^th Anniversary of the Murder of Vincent Chin

Washington, D.C. — Today, members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) commemorated the 40^th anniversary of Vincent Chin’s murder. Chin, a Chinese American man, was beaten to death in Detroit, Michigan, by two autoworkers who wrongly blamed him for the loss of American auto jobs during a time when Japanese auto-manufacturing was gaining a foothold in the United States. CAPAC members released the following statements:

CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27):

“For the past forty years, the murder of Vincent Chin has been a significant event for AAPI communities across the nation — signaling an immediate need to address rising anti-Asian hate and sparking a movement to condemn violence, as well as harmful stereotypes and rhetoric. As we continue to remember the life of Vincent Chin, we must renew our commitment to fighting bigotry, racism and xenophobia in all forms. On this 40^th anniversary, I was proud to lead my colleagues in introducing a resolution recognizing Vincent and his lasting legacy. This resolution, alongside other efforts spearheaded by CAPAC members — such as the enactment of the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act and the Asian Pacific American museum study bill — will continue to combat these attacks and atrocities, while working to ensure AAPIs feel safe and welcome in their communities and country. However, there is still much work to be done on behalf of Asian Pacific American civil rights.”

Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), CAPAC First Vice-Chair:

“Today marks the 40^th anniversary of the murder of Vincent Chin. Vincent Chin, who was mistaken for a Japanese American, was attacked by two American autoworkers who blamed Japan for the loss of American manufacturing jobs. What is so heart breaking today, is that we are again seeing this scapegoating and harassment leading to attacks against the Asian American community. As we commemorate the 40^th anniversary of Vincent Chin’s death, we must recommit ourselves to fighting against racism and bigotry anywhere we see it.”

Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-33), CAPAC Whip:

“Forty years ago, Vincent Chin, a 27-year-old Chinese American man, was brutally murdered. Two autoworkers who thought Vincent was Japanese beat him to death with a baseball bat, essentially blaming him for the decline of the American auto industry. Neither of Vincent’s two murderers spent a day in jail for their crimes. In the wake of his tragic death, a pan-Asian American coalition fighting for civil rights and justice was formed. This struggle continues to this day, particularly during the troubling rise of anti-Asian American hate crimes since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We can honor Vincent Chin’s memory by continuing our fight to combat anti-Asian hate.”

Rep. Kai Kahele (HI-02), CAPAC Freshman Representative:

“As we remember the horrific, racially motivated murder of Vincent Chin that occurred 40 years ago today, we should celebrate the progress that has been made in advancing Asian-American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander rights but remain committed to battling the bigotry, hatred, and xenophobia against the AANHPI community that continues to plague our nation. The harmful stereotypes and scapegoating that led to Vincent’s murder are still present today, leading to terrible tragedies like the 2021 Atlanta Spa Shooting last year and the increase in attacks following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is absolutely unacceptable that one in every six Asian-American individuals reported experiencing a hate crime in the past year. It is clear there is still much progress to be made in ensuring a safe and accepting environment for the AANHPI community and we must remain united in our efforts to combat hate and racism throughout our nation.” 

Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17):

“Today, we remember Vincent Chin, who was murdered 40 years ago today in an act of anti-Asian violence. Four decades after his death, we are grappling with a rise in violence and discrimination against the AAPI community. I stand with my CAPAC colleagues in honoring Vincent Chin’s life by continuing to fight racism and violence in any form.”

Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-13):

“40 years ago, Vincent Chin, a Chinese American man, was brutally murdered in Detroit. Mistaking him as Japanese, two autoworkers blamed him for the loss of American manufacturing jobs. Their senseless, racist act of violence sparked a nationwide movement for Asian American civil rights. Unfortunately, the fight is not yet over as we grapple with the rise of AAPI hate crimes in the aftermath of a pandemic that has again shed light on the long struggle to equality. Today, I urge every American to honor the life and legacy of Vincent Chin by standing up for a just future.”

Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-12):

“Today, we remember Vincent Chin, who was senselessly murdered 40 years ago because of anti-Asian hate. His death marked a turning point in our nation’s long fight for equality, yet despite the progress we’ve made, our APPI community continues to experience discrimination and xenophobia at an alarming rate. In honor of the life and legacy of Vincent, we need to stand united with Asian Americans across the country to combat hatred and bigotry in all its forms.”

Rep. Katie Porter (CA-45):

“Vincent Chin was beaten to death by killers motivated by anti-Asian hate 40 years ago today. The men received no jail time — an injustice that helped spark the AAPI civil rights movement. As we remember Vincent today, we must recommit to standing against hate in all forms.”

Rep. Adam Smith (WA-09):

“On this fateful day in 1982, Vincent Chin, an innocent American, was brutally murdered in a racially motivated hate crime. Chin’s murderers blamed him for the loss of their jobs as the Japanese automotive industry grew. The killers served no prison time for their heinous crimes, sparking outrage across the country and giving rise to the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) movement. Today, we honor Vincent Chin and reflect on the work that remains to be done to ensure that this tragic injustice is never repeated. At a time when members of the AAPI community continue to face discrimination and violence, we must stand together to refute the ideologies that allow this hate to persist.”

面對失去25%聯邦經費危險 MBTA火速展開招聘動作

              (Boston Orange 編譯) MBTA因應聯邦政府的安全指示，縮減藍、橘、紅線班次4天後，MBTA總經理今 (23)日說，該機構將啟動閃電聘請，以處理調度員短缺，導致被迫縮減服務的結果。

                    MBTA總經理Steve Poftak在該機構董事會會議中描述了增加調度員的計畫。這是MBTA董事會在聯邦運輸管理局 (FTA)上週要求MBTA改善安全後，第一次開會。

                  身為MBTA7人董事會的董事之一，也代表麻州政府監管MBTA的麻州交通廳廳長 James Tesler表示，”我們必須盡可能的盡快糾正這問題”。

                 聯邦運輸管理局在稽核MBTA的安全狀況時，發現人員短缺，調度員以每班20小時不休息的時刻表，在藍紅橘線地鐵控制中心工作。FTA要求MBTA交出一份詳細的6週員工時刻表，以及解決員工短缺問題的6個月計畫。

                 MBTA照FTA的指示辦理後，乘客及支持交通人士對縮減班次安排，罵聲翻天。

               MBTA董事們在開會時並未討論外界的批評。Steven Poftak則表示，MBTA正在處理FTA指出的安全問題。FTA是上週五做完檢查，預定8月公佈調查結果。如果MBTA未能照FTA的規定完成改善，將面對損失25%來自聯邦政府經費的危險。

              Steven Poftak表示，週三時有6人道MBTA的營運控制中心，面試重軌調度員職位。另外還有12人應徵，他們正在審核。MBTA發言人事後表示，該機構想要再聘僱至少7名調度員。

                MBTA正打算為新聘重軌調度員提供1萬元的加盟獎金。他們也打算請已經退休的調度員回來工作，或者從外找服務機構來招聘人員。

              MBTA表示，調度員應該每8小時一班的工作，但是如果調度員必須工作的時間更長時，他們的工作時間也不能超過14到16個小時，而且必須至少休息10小時，才能接下一班次的勤務。

             FTA要求MBTA修理在後灣和塔芙茨醫療中心站之間的橘線地鐵軌道，處理鐵路站場的安全，以及員工重做安全訓練認證。

             Steven Poftak在前述問題之外，週一時還又面對新橘線車廂在Wellington場發生”電池失靈”問題，MBTA召回了所有的新橘線及紅線地鐵車廂，準備調查。

麻州政府聲明麻州槍枝法案不受紐約裁決影響

Baker-Polito Administration Releases Statement on Supreme Court Gun Ruling 

BOSTON – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration released the following statement on the Supreme Court’s ruling on New York’s gun law:

“The Baker-Polito Administration is proud of the Commonwealth’s nation-leading gun laws and history of enacting bipartisan gun reform legislation.  The Court’s ruling on New York’s licensing law has no immediate effect on the Commonwealth’s gun laws, which all remain in place.” – Terry MacCormack, press secretary

麻州查理貝克和白莉朵政府今日就紐約最高法院通過的槍法裁決，發表以下聲明:

"查理貝克和白莉朵政府為麻州在槍法，以及在槍法改革上立法不分黨派的歷史感到驕傲。法院對紐約槍牌法的裁決，對麻州的槍法無立即影響，麻州的槍法仍將維持原狀"。

新聞秘書Terry MacCormack (更新版)

https://twitter.com/i/status/1540100072116994048

波士頓市Sumner隧道本周末將暫時封閉

Sumner Tunnel Weekend Closure Announcement

The Sumner Tunnel is closed this weekend from June 24 at 11 p.m. to June 27 at 5 a.m. 

As of May 2022, MassDOT is carrying out a multilingual public outreach campaign to raise awareness for the beginning of Phase 1 construction. During Phase 1, the Sumner Tunnel will be closed for 36 weekends. The first weekend closure will take place Friday June 10, 2022. We are briefing stakeholder and community groups who will be impacted by the project. We are also holding visibilities in the North End, East Boston, and the North Shore to raise awareness for the start of weekend tunnel closures.

麻州交通廳從今年5月開始，就以多種語言通知民眾，將分階段翻修由波士頓市區通往機場Sumner隧道，第一階段將封閉隧道36週，已從6月10日的那個週末開始

波士頓市宣佈10名高中生獎學金得獎者

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES 2022 CITY OF BOSTON SCHOLARSHIP FUND AWARDEES

BOSTON - Thursday, June 22, 2022 - Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston Scholarship Committee this week awarded scholarships to 10 Boston students to help fund their higher education. Over 100 students currently receive an annual scholarship of $2,500 through the City of Boston Scholarship Fund for up to four years of their undergraduate education. In total, the fund will distribute nearly $240,000 in scholarships this year, helping to make college more accessible and affordable for Boston residents.  “Investing in our students is investing in our collective future,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Since its inception 30 years ago, the City has awarded more than 1,000 scholarships to Boston students in support of their higher education, and I am proud to celebrate this year’s group of new leaders stepping into that legacy.”  The City of Boston Scholarship Fund was established in 1994 to provide assistance to residents who plan to pursue a two- or four-year undergraduate program in Massachusetts. Applicants must be residents of Boston and must have graduated from high school by the time the students are selected for the scholarship program in June.  “By being chosen for this scholarship I will be able to further my education and help people within my community that have different needs, including mental health, addictions, and so much more,” said Diamond Hunter, this year’s Rosen Memorial Scholarship recipient, who will be attending Bridgewater State University this fall. “Also it gives me personal stress relief knowing I can continue going to school without worrying about if I would be able to afford it. I just want to say how grateful and honored I am to be given such an incredible opportunity.” Among the 10 City of Boston Scholars this year, seven are high school seniors, one is a current college student, and one is an adult returning to school to finish their degree. This new group of scholars represent various neighborhoods across the City and are attending six different colleges and universities across the Commonwealth. On average, they have a financial need gap of $5,767 per year, as determined by uAspire, a Boston-based nonprofit that specializes in college affordability. 90% of the 2022 City of Boston Scholars identify as people of color. The City of Boston Scholarship Committee has awarded over 1,000 students scholarships since 1995. This year, the Scholarship Fund celebrated the twentieth year of an endowed scholarship donated by the Rosen Family in memory of Jeffrey Dunipace Rosen. The Fund celebrated the seventh year of the Community Development Scholarship, established in remembrance of Mayor Thomas M. Menino, and a Community Spirit Scholarship in memory of former public servant and City of Boston Scholarship awardee, Dawn Jaffier. Funds for the scholarships are made possible from contributions made by residents and corporations. This year’s scholarships were supported by generous donations from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt as part of their ongoing commitment to Boston’s students. To make a donation, please visit boston.gov/scholarship.  Residents who fit the criteria are encouraged to participate in the next application process, which will begin in early 2023. For more information on the City of Boston Scholarship Program, visit Boston.gov/scholarship or send an email to cobscholarship@boston.gov. Additional resources for residents pursuing higher education can be found on the City’s Higher Education Resource page.

CAPAC Members Commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Title IX

 CAPAC Members Commemorate the 50^th Anniversary of Title IX

Washington, D.C. — Today, members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) commemorated the fiftieth anniversary of the inclusion of Title IX in the Education Amendments of 1972. This law prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded schools and education programs. Congresswoman Patsy Mink of Hawaii, a former CAPAC Chair, was instrumental in the inclusion of Title IX, and, following her death in 2002, the law was renamed the Patsy T. Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act. CAPAC members released the following statements:

CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27):

“Fifty years ago, the Education Amendments of 1972 was passed, which included Title IX — prohibiting sex-based discrimination in any education program receiving federal funding, solidifying progress toward gender equality in our education system. However, we cannot recognize this anniversary without acknowledging the hard work and dedication of Congresswoman Patsy Mink. The first Asian American woman, and woman of color, to serve in Congress, Rep. Mink, the author of this law, was a stalwart champion of anti-discriminatory policies and is known as the “Mother of Title IX.” Her trailblazing leadership helped to pave a path we are still marching on toward true gender equality — and I can think of no better way to commemorate these strides forward than by unveiling the Congresswoman’s portrait in the Capitol today.”

Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06), CAPAC First Vice-Chair:

“Fifty years ago today, Title IX became law. Trailblazer Patsy Mink, the first Asian American woman to serve in Congress, authored this legislation to end discrimination in educational programs and activities based on gender. This groundbreaking law has forever altered the world of education, helping to ensure that all children are afforded the same opportunity in school regardless of gender. That is why I have introduced legislation to ensure that our local school districts have fully funded Title IX Coordinators to ensure that no child endures discrimination for who they are. Thousands of students have benefited from Title IX and while we have come incredibly far in the 50 years since Title IX was implemented, there is undoubtedly more work to be done. We must continue to invest in our education system and fight for equality so that our children are able to fully pursue their educational dreams.”

Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-33), CAPAC Whip:

“Fifty years ago, Patsy Takemoto Mink changed America. As the first Asian American woman and woman of color in Congress, Patsy Mink wrote and sponsored the landmark legislation we know today as Title IX. Title IX transformed America by outlawing all forms of sex discrimination in federally funded schools. This legislation set a precedent of equal opportunity within our education system that continues to safeguard our young people’s welfare. Every American should have equal access to safe educational activities, regardless of their gender identity. That’s why I’ve cosponsored legislation like H.R. 5396, the Title IX Take Responsibility Act, which would expand institutional liability in cases of sexual harassment, demanding schools take initiative in the protection of student safety. Democrats will continue to fight for laws that prevent gender discrimination and pursue legislation that promotes equity in our schools.”

Rep. Kai Kahele (HI-02), CAPAC Freshman Representative:

“Hawaiʻi’s Congresswoman Patsy Mink was a fearless trailblazer who fought tirelessly to ensure that women receive equal rights and opportunities in our nation. Today, as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the enactment of Title IX, it is important to honor her work and the critical role that this legislation has played in preventing discrimination and empowering women across our educational institutions. With celebration comes our continued commitment to build off of these incredible achievements. We must tackle new challenges that arise, including fighting to eliminate sexual violence and increasing female representation in STEM programs. As the representative of the congressional district that she formerly served, I strive to uphold her legacy every day by advocating for equal rights and continuing to push for increased opportunities for women.”

Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17):

“Today marks the 50th anniversary of Title IX — a law that has been pivotal in creating opportunities for millions of women in education, on sports teams, and combatting sexual assault in schools. Despite the progress our country has made in achieving equity in schools, we have a long way to go to ensure that everyone — particularly queer and trans women — receive fair treatment and feel safe in the classroom and on sports teams.”

Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-13):

“On this day in 1972, Patsy Mink, the first woman of color and Asian-American lawmaker elected to the House of Representatives, revolutionized civil rights law with the passage of Title IX — a simple clause tucked inside President Nixon’s Education Amendments Act. For 50 years, this statute has addressed vast gender inequality and sex discrimination in education, from protecting female athletes to advancing justice for survivors of sexual assault and discrimination on federally funded campuses. But despite this progress, sexual assault and gender discrimination are still a pervasive epidemic in this country. On the 50^th anniversary of Title IX, we honor Mink’s strength and leadership for women while acknowledging the work that remains to achieve full equality and justice in education.”

Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01):

“Title IX was signed into law 50 years ago. Championed by Oregon’s own Representative Edith Green and Representative Patsy Mink of Hawaii, Title IX was an affirmation of the basic principle that everyone is entitled to an educational experience free from discrimination. Title IX touched off sea change in our schools, workplaces, and sports arenas, and it started a wave of advances toward gender equity. Title IX was — and continues to be — a promise we have yet to fulfill. For every dollar colleges spend on men’s sports teams, they spend just 71 cents on similar teams for women. Systemic campus-based sexual assault continues to devastate too many students at our colleges and universities. And around our country, transgender students are being singled out and banned from competing with others and subjected to cruel invasions of privacy. It is beyond time to update and strengthen Title IX protections. Doing so is imperative to achieving true gender equity.”

Rep. Katherine Clark (MA-05):

“For fifty years, Title IX has guaranteed gender equity in athletics and created a legal recourse for sexual harassment on campuses. In the decades since its enactment, Title IX has also been used to protect pregnant and LGBTQ+ students and educators from discrimination. This landmark legislation has transformed the lives and possibilities of generations of women, and as we celebrate its impact on our country, we must recommit ourselves to the fight for true equity.”

Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-12):

“50 years ago, women from across the country stood up against adversity and worked with Congress to enact Title IX and ban gender discrimination in our public schools. Since then, more women have graduated from college, advanced their careers, succeeded in sports, and so much more. Our country is better off thanks to their achievements, and as we mark this historic anniversary, we must recommit ourselves to ensuring Title IX remains strong for generations to come.”

Rep. Adam Smith (WA-09):

“Fifty years ago today, Title IX became the law of the land, a groundbreaking statute that enshrined gender equality in our education system. By prohibiting federally funded educational institutions from discriminating on the basis of gender, Title IX helped clear the way for women and girls across the country to thrive. Today, as we celebrate the anniversary of this landmark achievement and the progress that has been made since, we also remember Patsy Mink, who was instrumental in the fight for gender equality. Patsy, the first woman of color and first Asian-American to be elected to the House of Representatives, was the major driver of the crucial legislation that created Title IX. May we continue to live out Patsy’s legacy and work to protect and expand equal rights for every person across the United States.”