Monday, June 30, 2014

Questions and Answers on the Contraceptives Case

Article
The New York Times
Adam Liptak
June 30, 2014

A Look at the Parties and the Issues in the Hobby Lobby Case

WASHINGTON - The Supreme Court on Monday is expected to rule on a pair of challenges to a part of President Obama's health care law that requires many employers to provide insurance coverage for contraceptives. Here is a look at the parties, the lawyers and the issues in the case. 

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/01/us/a-look-at-the-parties-and-the-issues-in-the-hobby-lobby-case.html?hpw&action=click&pgtype=Homepage&version=HpHedThumbWell&module=well-region&region=bottom-well&WT.nav=bottom-well

With Rainbow Neckerchiefs, Celebrating Pride and Progress at Parade

Article
The New York Times
Vivian Yee
June 29, 2014

Boy Scouts make Provocative Statement at Gay Pride Parade

The color guard leading the annual Gay Pride March down Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on Sunday carried flags of sky blue, navy blue, red-white-and-blue and rainbow. But, for these marchers, the colors that mattered most were the ones they wore.

Full Story: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/30/nyregion/boy-scouts-make-provocative-statement-at-gay-pride-parade.html?action=click&pgtype=Homepage&version=Moth&module=inside-nyt-region&region=inside-nyt-region&WT.nav=inside-nyt-region

Diversity in America’s counties, in 5 maps

Article
The Washington Post
Niraj Chokshi
June 30, 2014

Starr County, Texas, near the state's southern tip, is one of the nation's whitest counties and its most Hispanic.

Texas only makes an appearance once in the list of the nation's 10 whitest counties last year, according to new Census data released last week. Nebraska's Keya Paha County, is technically the whitest, though with a population of 790 (all but seven white) that achievement is easier to come by than in other places. Of the 15 whitest counties, four have populations above 10,000: Starr, Ohio's Holmes County, Virginia's Dickenson County, and West Virginia's Lincoln County. All counties in the top 15 were home populations between 98.7% percent and 99.1% white.

Full Story: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/govbeat/wp/2014/06/30/diversity-in-americas-counties-in-5-maps/?tid=hpModule_ba0d4c2a-86a2-11e2-9d71-f0feafdd1394&hpid=z12

Senate Hearing Examines Need to Address Current Racial Discrimination in Voting

Archive
The Leadership Conference for Civil and Human Rights
Patrick McNeil
June 26, 2014

One year after the U.S. Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) in its Shelby v. Holder decision, the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday held a hearing on proposed legislation to restore critical protections. That legislation - the Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2014 (S. 1945) - was introduced in the Senate in January by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy, D. Vt. 

Full Story: http://www.civilrights.org/archives/2014/1446-vraa-senate-hearing.html

Tenth Circuit's Decision in Marriage Equality Case a Monumental Moment for Equal Justice

Press Release
The National Women's Law Center
June 25, 2014

Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit handed down its decision in Kitchen v. Herbert. In a 2-1 decision for a three judge panel, the Tenth Circuit upheld the lower court's finding the Utah's ban on marriage between same-sex couples violates the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The decision stats that "those who wish to marry a person of the same sex are entitled to the exercise of the same fundamental right as it is recognized by persons who wish to marry a person of the opposite sex."

Full Story: http://www.nwlc.org/press-release/tenth-circuits-decision-marriage-equality-case-monumental-moment-equal-justice

McCullen v. Coakley Buffer Zone Decision Removes Important Protection from Harassment for Individuals Seeking Safe and Legal Abortion

Press Release
The National Women's Law Center
June 26, 2014

The Supreme Court issued a decision today in McCullen v. Coakley, overturning a 2007 Massachusetts law that protected access to reproductive health clinics by prohibiting protestors, regardless of their position on abortion, form coming within 35 feet of a facility.

Full Story: http://www.nwlc.org/press-release/mccullen-v-coakley-buffer-zone-decision-removes-important-protection-harassment-indivi

Contraception ruling is a symbolic blow to the health care law

Article
The Washington Post
Sandhya Somashekhar
June 30, 2014

Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Hobby Lobby

The Supreme Court struck a second blow against the health-care law Monday with its decision to narrow the so-called contraception mandate, an aspect of the federal program that was not central to its existence but was deeply cherished among liberals and many women's groups. 

Full Story: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/contraception-ruling-is-a-symbolic-blow-to-the-health-care-law/2014/06/30/44ef2cc2-fe35-11e3-b1f4-8e77c632c07b_story.html?hpid=z2

Diversity in Tech

Article
The Latin Post
Robert Schoon
r.schoon@latinpost.com
June 28, 2014


Latino Startup Alliance and Black Grils Code Launching STEM Program for Latinas

The lack of diversity in Silicon Valley has been a topic of concern recently, as larch tech companies Google, Yahoo, LinkedIn and, most recently, Facebook release not-so-stellar diversity statistics. One thing has become clear from the recent influx of diversity reports from these companies (each of which deserve credit for at least starting the conversation): White men rule Silicon Valley.

Full Story: http://www.latinpost.com/articles/15914/20140628/latino-startup-alliance-black-girls-code-launching-stem-program-for-latinas.htm 

Friday, June 27, 2014

Fairbanks diversity concert includes music with a message

Article
News Miner
The Voice of Interior Alaska
Gary Black
gblack@newsminer.com
June 26, 2014

FAIRBANKS -- A concert tonight in Fairbanks with a Latin flair is promoting cultural diversity in Interior Alaska by way of music and education.

Full Story: http://www.newsminer.com/features/latitude_65/fairbanks-diversity-concert-includes-music-with-a-message/article_fd146af8-fd9d-11e3-bc7f-0017a43b2370.html

Diversity Stride 2014 Walk-a-Thon Raises Funds to Educate & Empower Tomorrow’s Leaders!

News & Media
The American Conference on Diversity
Gail Zoppo
gail@AmericanConferenceonDiversity.org
732.745.9330
June 23, 2014

Corporate leaders, educators, administrators, students, community groups, families, and volunteers from throughout the tri-state area descended on Buccleuch Park in new Brunswick, NJ, on June 14 to help raise funds for the American Conference on Diversity's 14th Annual Diversity Stride Walk-a-Thon. Each year, the walk supports our signature youth leadership-development program called Lead for Diversity, a year-long initiative designed to promote unity, increase diversity awareness, and ensure respect for people of all races, faiths, ethnicities, sexual identities/expressions, and ages.

Full Story: http://americanconferenceondiversity.org/2014/06/23/diversity-stride-2014-walk-a-thon-raises-funds-to-educate-empower-tomorrows-leaders/

Federal judge turns focus to Jefferson County Sheriff's Office in 32-year-old discrimination order

Article
Alabama Media Group
Kent Faulk
kfaulk@aol.com
June 26, 2014

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama - A federal judge, who last year installed a manager to oversee all Jefferson County personnel decisions to prevent discrimination against blacks and women, has now turned his focus onto the county sheriff's office.

Full Story: http://www.al.com/news/birmingham/index.ssf/2014/06/federal_judge_turns_focus_to_j.html

Massachusetts Abortion Clinics Boost Security After Supreme Court Ruling On Buffer Zones

Article
The Huffington Post
Elizabeth Barber and Richard Valdmanis
June 27, 2014

BOSTON -  Massachusetts is beefing up security around abortion clinics and scrambling for legal fix after the U.S. Supreme Court voided the state's buffer zone law that kept protesters 35 feet away, saying it violated freedom of speech.

Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/06/27/massachusetts-abortion-clinics_n_5537301.html

The "Daily Show" Sploof on the Campus Sexual Assault Cases

John Stewart reported cases of sexual assault on various college campuses on his show and had two of his correspondents, Jordan Kleeper and Jessica Williams perform the "do's and don'ts" of ways to stay safe on college campuses in avoidance of sexual assault.

See the video below.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/hnigatu/the-daily-show-takes-on-the-double-standards-in-combating-co

Abortion Buffer-Zone Ruling in McCullen: The Supreme Court's Facade of Unity and the Future of Abortion Rights

Article
The Huffington Post
Clay Calvert
June 26, 2014

Thursday's Supreme Court ruling in McCullen vs. Coakley, despite the unified outcome and facade, makes it clear that abortion is and will continue to be a wedge issue dividing the justices for years to come.

Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/clay-calvert/abortion-buffer-zone-ruling_b_5534697.html

Rachel Maddow Hammers Supreme Court For Hypocrisy Over Abortion Clinic Ruling

Article
The Huffington Post
Katherine Fung
June 27, 2014

Rachel Maddow said Thursday night that the Supreme Court of all places should understand the need for buffer zones around abortion clinics.

Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/06/27/rachel-maddow-supreme-court-abortion-clinic_n_5536768.html

Civil Human Rights Coalition Responds to Recess Appointment Decision


Press Release
The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Scott Simpson
202.466.2061
simpson@civilrights.org
June 25, 2014

WASHINGTON -- Wade Henderson, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court's ruling in NLRB v. Noel Canning, which limited but upheld the president's recess appointment power: ...

Full Story: http://www.civilrights.org/press/2014/noel-canning-nlrb.html

Civil and Human Rights Coalition Applauds Senate Vote on Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

Press Release
The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Scott Simpson
202.466.2061
simpson@civilrights.org
June 25, 2014

WASHINGTON, DC -  Nancy Zirkin, executive vice president of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement after today's Senate passage of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act: ...

Full Story: http://www.civilrights.org/press/2014/workforce-investment-opportunity-act-senate.html

Fort Worth Center of Rehabilitation to Pay $30,000 to Settle Disability Discrimination Lawsuit

Press Release
EEOC
June 26, 2014

Healthcare Facility Denied Applicant in Renal Failure Reasonable Accommodation for Her Disability, Federal Agency Charged 

DALLAS -  A Forth Worth-based health care facility will pay $50,000 and furnish other relief to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency announced today. The EEOC had charged the Fort Worth Center for Rehabilitation with unlawfully failing to accommodate a disabled applicant with a kidney disorder. 

Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-26-14.cfm

$36M in job-training grants to help 12,000 homeless veterans awarded by US Labor Department

News Release: June 26, 2014
Egan Reich
202.693.4960
reich,egan@dol.gov

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez today announced grants totaling $36,710,368 awarded to 156 organizations nationwide to provide more than 12,000 veterans with training to help them succeed in civilian careers. The grants are being awarded under the department's Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program, administered by the veterans' Employment and Training Service.

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/vets/VETS20141224.htm

$2M in funding now available from US Labor Department to enhance employment and carer opportunities for youth with disabilities

News Release: June 26, 2014
Laura McGinnis or Tania Mejia
202.693.4653 or x4686
McGinnis.Laura.K@dol.gov or Mejia.Tania@dol.gov

Applications to launch pilot projects can be submitted until August 11th 

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy today annoucned the availability of $2,083,300 for two cooperative agreements to improve post secondary education and employment opportunities for youth with disabilities through the Pathways to Careers: Community Colleges for Youth and Young Adults with Disabilities Demonstration Project. 

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/odep/ODEP20141236.htm

OCR in the Hot Seat

Article
Inside Higher Ed
Michael Statford
June 27, 2014

WASHINGTON -- Does the federal government need more power to go after colleges that mishandle sexual assault cases, or has it already overstepped its authority in telling colleges how to handle those cases?

That was a question raised Thursday by a pair of heated exchanges between a senior Department of Education official and the top two lawmakers on the Senate education committee during a Higher Education Act reauthorization hearing.

Full Story: http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2014/06/27/senators-debate-whether-us-has-enough-power-or-too-much-combat-campus-sexual-assault#sthash.sCyeC3D2.dpbs

Expulsion Presumed

Article
Inside Higher Ed
Jake New
June 27, 2014

As the summer term began at Dartmouth College last week, so did a new disciplinary policy. Expulsion will now be the mandatory punishment for students who commit certain kinds of sexual assault.

Many institutions are grappling with how to fairly punish students they believe to be guilty of sexual assault - whether or not the accused have been formally charged by the police -- but mandatory expulsions remain rare on college campuses.

Full Story: http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2014/06/27/should-expulsion-be-default-discipline-policy-students-accused-sexual-assault#sthash.ZbuwLMRu.dpbs

Google's Gender-Diversity Push Is Paying Off

Article
ReadWrite
Selena Larson
June 25, 2014

Google is welcoming more women than ever at this year's I/O developer conference.

Google is putting an increased focus on diversity initiatives both in its own company and the tech community at large. Based on attendance at this year's annual Google developer conference in San Francisco, its efforts are paying off.


Full Story: http://readwrite.com/2014/06/25/google-diversity-io-2014-women-technology#awesm=~oIkz32kVgLYTpw

Workplace diversity is good for business, TD Bank chief exec says

Article
CTV News
The Canadian Press
Julian Beltrame
June 25, 2014

OTTAWA -- TD Back chief executive Ed Clark says being a champion of social issues is not something rewarded "just in heaven" but also benefits the back's bottom line.

The bank executive, who gave a key speech at the WorldPride Human Rights Conference in Toronto on Wednesday, said TD awoke to diversity issues about a decade ago and has since become a major advocate for the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community and sponsor of 42 pride festivals across North America.

Full Story: http://www.ctvnews.ca/business/workplace-diversity-is-good-for-business-td-bank-chief-exec-says-1.1886028

Status Update: Facebook Not So Diverse

Article
USA Today
Jessica Guynn
June 26, 2014

SAN FRANCISCO - Facebook, the world's most popular social network, released statistics on the makeup of is workforce that do not reflect the demographics of its users around the globe.

The lopsided numbers are just the latest from a major Silicon Vally company to paint a stark picture of an industry sector dominated by white men and are sure to escalate an already heated debate over the lack of diversity in the tech industry.

Full Story: http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2014/06/25/facebook-diversity/11369019/

An alternative to AA as it currently stands

Article
Times LIVE
Bruce Gorton
June 25, 2014

The IRR has come out pretty strongly against Affirmative Action (AA), highlighting the problems it has caused in terms of service delivery.

What is hasn't done is come up with an alternative, so I got to thinking about what we could do differently as a country, and thus achieve the results we want.

Fist up we need to list our goals in their order of importance:

1. Maintaining the services we have
2. Expanding their reach
3. Transformation

Full Story: http://www.timeslive.co.za/opinion/2014/06/25/an-alternative-to-aa-as-it-currently-stands

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Guam Credit Union to Pay $75,000 to Resolve Sexual Harassment Case with EEOC

Press Release
EEOC
June 24, 2014

HONOLULU, Hawaii - Maite, Guam-based Coast 360 Federal Credit Union will pay $75,000 and furnish other relief to settle a sexual harassment case with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity COmmission (EEOC), the agency announced today. The credit union also agreed to implement measures to prevent future incidents of harassment.

Full Story:  http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-24-14b.cfm

Rizza Cadillac to Pay $100K to Three Arab Muslim Employees Under Federal Consent Decree

Press Release
EEOC
June 25, 2014

Car Dealer Subjected Employees to Offensive Slurs Like 'Terrorist,' Federal Agency Charged

CHICAGO -  The federal district court in Chicago has entered a consent decree requiring Rizza Buick GMC Cadillac, Inc., a Tinley Park car dealership, to pay $100,000 and provide other relief in order to resolve a national origin and religious discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency announced today.

Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-25-14a.cfm

Appeals Court Upholds Jury Verdict and All Relief Awarded Against A.C. Widenhouse in EEOC Race Harassment Case

Press Release
EEOC
June 25, 2014

Trucking Company to Pay $243,000 for Subjecting African-American Employees to Racial Slurs and Nooses, Retaliation

WASHINGTON - In the latest of a series of successes in the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC's) challenges to workplace racial harassment, the U.S. Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld the EEOC's victory in obtaining a jury verdict and more than $243,000 in injunctive relief for victims of racial harassment and retaliation perpetrated by A.C. Widenhouse, Inc., a Concord, N.C.-based trucking company, the agency announced today.

Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-25-14.cfm

EEOC Sues Baldwin Supply of Minneapolis for Disability Discrimination

Press Release
EEOC
June 24, 2014

Company Refused to Allow Employee to Return After Heart Attach and Fired Him Instead, Federal Agency Charges

MINNEAPOLIS - A Minneapolis-based distributor violated federal civil rights law by not allowing an employee to return to work after he had a heart attach, and instead firing him because of his disability, the U.S. Equal Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit it filed here today.

Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-24-14a.cfm

Jamison Shaw Hairdressers Sued By EEOC for Disability Discrimination

Press Release
EEOC
June 2, 2014

Atlanta hair Salon unlawfully Fired Disabled Veteran, Federal Agency Charges

ATLANTA -  Jamison Shaw Hairdressers, which operates a salon in the Buckhead section of Atlanta, violated federal law by subjecting a disabled employee to discrimination after she requested a reasonable accommodation for her scoliosis and herniated disc, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit filed today.

Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-24-14.cfm

MSHA announces results of May impact inspections

MSHA News Release: June 26, 2014
Amy Louviere
202.693.9423
Louviere.Amy@dol.gov

ARLINGTON, Va. - The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration today announced that federal inspectors issued 172 citations, 21 orders and two safeguards during special impact inspections conducted at 10 coal mines and two metal and nonmetal mines in May.

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/msha/MSHA20141237.htm

$1.85M in funding now available to improve employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities from US Labor Department

ODEP News Release: June 26, 2014
Laura McGinnis or Tania Mejia
202.693.4653 or x4686
McGinnis.Laura.K@dol.gov or Mejia.Tania@dol.gov

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy today announced the availability of $1,850,000 to fund a cooperative agreement to manage and operate the Nation Employer Policy, Research and Technical Assistance Cetner on the Employment of People with Disabilities.

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/odep/ODEP20141185.htm

$154.8M awarded to 32 states, Puerto Rico and the Cherokee tribal nation to implement or expand job-driven training programs for laid-off workers

ETA News Release: June 24, 2014
Jason Kuruvilla or Egan Reich
202.693.6587 or x4960

kuruvilla.jason@dol.gov or reich.egan@dol.gov

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor today announced grants totaling $154,757,547 awarded to 32 states, Puerto Rico and the Cherokee tribal nation through the Job-Driven National Emergency Grants program. The funding will be used to train workers who lost a job through no fault of their own for jobs in high-demand industries. 

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20141235.htm

Unemployment Insurance Weekly Claims

News Release
U.S. Department of Labor
Employment and Training Administration
Washington D.C.
Tom Stengle 202.693.2991
Toney Sznoluch 202.693.3176
Media Contact 202.693.4676

SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA

In the week ending June 21, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 312,000, a decrease of 2,000 from the previous week's revised level. The prvious week's level was revised up by 2,000 from 312,000 to 314,000. The 4-week moving average was 314,250 an increase of 2,000 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised up by 500 from 311,750 to 312, 250.

There were no special factors impacting this wee's initial claims.

Full Report: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20141205.pdf

LGBT literature, authors highlighted for Pride Month as part of Labor Department's Books that Shaped Work in America project

OPA News Release: June 25, 2014
Jennifer Marion
202.693.5795
marion.jennifer@dol.gov

WASHINGTON -- From George Chauncey's "Gay New Yor" to Wait Whitman's "Leaves of Grass," work-related lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender literature and authors whose books focus on work are being highlighted for LGBT Pride Month as part of the U.S. Department of Labor's Books that Shaped Work in America. 

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/opa/OPA20141211.htm

Workers affected by layoffs at Maine Military Authority to receive additional assistance from US Labor Department

ETA News Release: June 24, 2014
Jason Kuruvilla or Egan Reich
202.693.6587 or x4960
kuruvilla.jason@dol.gov or reich.egan@dol.gov

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Deparment of Labor today announced $157,430 in supplemental funding to continue the provision of employment-related services to workers affected by layoffs at the Maine Military Authority, located in Limestone, Maine. 

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20141174.htm

Costa Rica Extends Medical Benefits To Same-Sex Couples

Article
The Huffington Post
May 23, 2014

SAN JOSE, May 23 (Reuters) - Costa Rica's social security system has agreed to extend medical benefits to same-sex couple, in a fresh step toward equal rights for gays and lesbians in Latin America.

Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/05/23/costa-rica-medical-benefits-gay-_n_5380222.html?utm_hp_ref=gay-voices

South Africa: The Mere Mention of the Words 'Affirmative Action' ...

Article
All Africa
Mandisi Majavu
June 24, 2014


JOHANNESBURG - Last month the BBC published an article titled, "Do white people have a future in South Africa?" Western institutions like the BBC see no problem in commissioning articles like this due to mainstream whites' misconception of racism as a zero-sum game. Research shows that mainstream whites associate a decrease in anti-black racism with an increase in anti-white racism. The notion of "reverse racism" is rooted in this misconception.

Full Story: http://allafrica.com/stories/201406241560.html?page=1

Why academic, gender diversity is imperative in B-schools

Article
The Hindu Business Line
Vinay Kamath
June 24, 2014


Management institutes look to re-jig the student mix for a holistic perspective

Puja Das talks excitedly about her new role as President of the graduate student board of the Hyderabad-based Indian School of Business. Conversing in the sandstone-coloured wind-swept cavernous atrium of the B-school, her enthusiasm is infectious.

The 26-year-old IIT Bombay graduate, who worked a little over two years in oil exploration company Schlumberger before joining ISB, has her agenda full: add lustre to the ISB brand, reach out to alumni, host national-level competitions... she's brimming with ideas.

Full Story: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/features/newmanager/why-academic-gender-diversity-is-imperative-in-bschools/article6145664.ece?ref=wl_companies

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Boehner to sue Obama in executive authority dispute

Article
USA Today
Susan Davis
June 25, 2014


WASHINGTON -- House Speaker John Boehner confirmed Wednesday that he intends to sue President Obama in the long-running dispute between the administration and congressional Republicans over the scope of the administration's executive authority to enforce laws.

"I am," Boehner told reporters, when asked if he was going to initiate a lawsuit.

Full Story: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2014/06/25/boehner-suing-obama/11355639/

Diversity left out of startup revolution in Detroit

Article
Crain's Detroit Business
Amy Haimerl
June 24, 2014

AOL founder Steve Case is in town, investing in entrepreneurs. But diverse startups are still MIA

Steve Case rolled into Detroit last night, just in time for the fireworks display.

This morning, the AOL founder launched his Rise of the Rest tour in th eparking lot of th eMadison Building in downtown Detroit. He will be touring four U.S. cities, offering one lucky entrepreneur in each location a $100,000 investment.

Full Story: http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20140624/BLOG017/140629936/diversity-left-out-of-startup-revolution-in-detroit

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

VRAA Capitol Hill Rally TOMORROW by House Triangle, After Senate VRAA Hearing & on Anniversary of Shelby County v. Holder Decision

Press Release
OFCCP
Scott Simpson
202.466.2061
simpson@civilrights.org
June 24, 2014

WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, June 25, the nation will mark the one-year anniversary of the Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder, which gutted key voter protections of the Voting Rights Act.  The day will be marked with a Senate hearing on the bipartisan Voting Rights Amendment Act (VRAA) and a rally urging the House of Representatives to move forward in the legislative process. 

Full Story: http://www.civilrights.org/press/2014/vraa-capitol-hill-rally.html

$1.9M in grants to support women in nontraditional occupations announced by US Labor Department

ETA News Release: June 24, 2014
 Jason Kuruvilla
(202) 693-6587

Kuruvilla.Jason@dol.gov


WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a total of $1,938,182 in grants to help women through the Women in Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations program, an initiative designed to recruit, train and retain women in high-skill occupations in advanced manufacturing, transportation, energy, construction, information technology and other industries.


Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20141177.htm

$68.7M awarded to fund re-employment and eligibility assessments for Unemployment Insurance claimants in 40 states and territories

ETA News Release: June 24, 2014
Jason Kuruvilla
(202) 693-6587
Kuruvilla.Jason@dol.gov


Grants will expedite job searches while reducing improper UI payments
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded $68,745,912 to 37 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia to implement or continue re-employment and eligibility assessments for Unemployment Insurancebeneficiaries.


Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20141212.htm

Chapman University to Pay $75,000 to Settle EEOC Race Discrimination Suit

Press Release
EEOC
June 23, 2014


University Fired Black Professor After Being Denied Tenure Due to Race, Federal Agency Charged
SAN DIEGO - Chapman University, a private university in Orange, Calif., will pay $75,000 and furnish other relief to settle a race discrimination lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency announced today.


Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-23-14a.cfm

EEOC Sues Massage Envy Spa Franchise for Pregnancy Discrimination

Press Release
EEOC
June 23, 2014


Spa Fired Female Employee Because She Was Pregnant, Federal Agency Charges
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - CCR Wellness Investments, LLC, d/b/a Massage Envy, violated federal law when it terminated a female employee because she was pregnant, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) charged in a lawsuit filed today.


Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-23-14.cfm

Black Mississippi Preachers Persuade Congregation to Vote for Anti-Affirmative Action Republican

Article
Breaking Brown
June 23, 2014

If Mississippi U.S. Senator Thad Cochran makes it past tomorrow’s primary, he may owe his win to black pastors who have been working behind the scenes to get him elected.

Full Story: http://breakingbrown.com/2014/06/black-miss-preachers-persuade-congregation-to-vote-for-anti-affirmative-action-republican/

The IRR, AA and the origins of state decay

Article
The Politics Web
James Myburgh
June 23, 2014

Over the past few weeks the Institute of Race Relations has come under fire for a press statement titled, somewhat provocatively, "Affirmative Action is killing babies and must be scrapped." The Institute argued that the recent unnecessary deaths of a number of babies - from contaminated drinking water in Bloemhof and poor care in Gauteng and Limpopo health facilities - were the direct result of governmental incompetence and this, in turn, was the product of government's policies of race-based affirmative action.

Full Story: http://www.politicsweb.co.za/politicsweb/view/politicsweb/en/page71619?oid=639445&sn=Detail&pid=71616

Give Madison leaders credit for looking at race in public works

Article
The Wisconsin State Journal
Chris Rickert
June 24, 2014



So Madison hired what appears to be a white-run company to study whether Madison is failing to hire enough minority-run companies?
Of course it did. It’s just another of many small ironies in a city that assigns great importance to racial equality and equal opportunity and yet finds itself saddled with some of the starkest racial disparities in the nation.


Full Story: http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/columnists/chris-rickert/chris-rickert-give-madison-leaders-credit-for-looking-at-race/article_5b4d2f18-3245-5711-a433-52cc801bad4e.html

Latino lawmakers move to reverse decades of anti-immigrant legislation

Article
LA Times
Melanie Manson and Patrick McGreevy
June 22, 2014

Two decades after California voters took a hard line on illegal immigration, affirmative action and bilingual education, an ascendant class of Latino lawmakers is seeking to rewrite the books and discard the polarizing laws.

Flexing its growing clout in Sacramento, this generation of legislators is returning to the 1990s-era fights that propelled them into politics. On Monday, they will mark 20 years since Proposition 187 — the landmark initiative withholding public services such as healthcare and education from those in the country illegally — qualified for the ballot.

Full Story: http://touch.latimes.com/#section/-1/article/p2p-80587883/


Monday, June 23, 2014

Senate Committee Passes Appropriations Bill Promoting Equal Health Coverage for Peace Corps Volunteers

Press Release
The Center for Reproductive Rights
June 19, 2014


Center for Reproductive Rights applauds Senate Appropriations Committee for passing bill permitting abortion coverage for Peace Corps Volunteers in the cases of life endangerment, rape, and incest

 Today the Senate Committee on Appropriations approved funding bills for FY15 that finally allow health care coverage for abortion services for Peace Corps volunteers in cases of life endangerment, rape, and incest—a critical fix that would ensure women in the Peace Corps have the same limited coverage available to federal employees, women receiving health care assistance through Medicaid, and most recently, military servicewomen.


Full Story: http://www.reproductiverights.org/en/press-room/senate-committee-passes-appropriations-bill-promoting-equal-health-coverage-for-peace-corps-volunteers

Louisiana Governor Jindal Signs Law Designed to Shutter Reproductive Health Clinics

Press Release
The Center for Reproductive Rights
June 19, 2014


Politicians continue to ignore expertise and counsel of medical community, deny women seeking to end a pregnancy safe, legal, high-quality care

Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal signed into law today House Bill 388, a measure forcing any doctor who provides abortion care to obtain admitting privileges at a local hospital—a requirement that is not necessary for the treatment of the fewer than 1% of abortion patients who experience complications, and can be impossible to satisfy because of hospitals’ inclination to deny admitting privileges to abortion providers for reasons not related to the doctors’ qualifications.


Full Story: http://www.reproductiverights.org/en/press-room/louisiana-governor-jindal-signs-law-designed-to-shutter-reproductive-health-clinics

A Closer Look: Justice Sonia Sotomayor

ABC New's George Stephanopoulos interviews Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor 


Click here to watch

Noteworthy changes to affirmative action

Article
The Daily Progress
Jim Charapich
June 23, 2014


Free online webinar tomorrow, June 24, “Disability & Employment - Navigating OFCCP 503/VEVRAA Compliance” at 9 a.m. for pre-registered guests. Register online at www.CulpeperChamber.com  and click on the webinar link.
The Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) has issued new regulations relating to affirmative action for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, which have made noteworthy changes to the affirmative action programs for these groups. The new regulations became effective March 24, 2014. The new regulations broaden affirmative action coverage and add new requirements.


Full Story: http://www.dailyprogress.com/starexponent/entertainment_life/columnists/noteworthy-changes-to-affirmative-action/article_bcc88766-fac5-11e3-b41e-001a4bcf6878.html

EEOC sues medical device firm for age, sex discrimination

Article
Business Management
June 22, 2014

The EEOC alleges Chanhassen-based PMT Corp. discriminated against older and female applicants for company sales positions. In a law­­suit filed in federal court, the EEOC claims the company’s president and CEO specifically instructed the HR department not to hire women and people who graduated from college more than 10 years ago for sales positions.

Full Story: http://www.businessmanagementdaily.com/38751/eeoc-sues-medical-device-firm-for-age-sex-discrimination#_

Federal appeals court disability leave ruling conflicts with EEOC stance

Article
Business Insurance
Judy Greenwald
June 22, 2014

Companies Have Been Flexible With Ill Workers


A federal appeals court ruling that allows employers to set rigid disability leave guidelines is the first to bump directly against a U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission campaign that promotes more flexible policies for injured or ill workers.

Full Story: http://www.businessinsurance.com/article/20140622/NEWS07/306229963?tags=%7C309%7C70%7C303

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Sotomayor: Affirmative Action Options Don't Work

Article
ABC News
Kevin Freking
June 22, 2014


Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor rejected on Sunday the notion that alternatives to affirmative action such as income or residency could achieve similar results in diversifying the nation's colleges and universities.

Full Story: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/sotomayor-affirmative-action-options-work-24254104

Here's Where The Fights To Increase The Minimum Wage Are Taking Place Across The Country

Article
The Huffington Post
June 19, 2014

Proposals to raise the minimum wage above the federal minimum of $7.25 an hour are increasingly divisive. In many states, the push is opposed by state officials concerned that local minimum wages could create a confusing patchwork. Opponents also say higher wages could force businesses to cut jobs or raise prices. Here's a look at some battlegrounds:

Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/06/19/minimum-wage-country_n_5511764.html?utm_hp_ref=tw

Study: Eviction Rates for Black Women on Par With Incarcerations for Black Men

Article
The Root
Eric C.J. Robertson
June 19, 2014


MacArthur Foundation “How Housing Matters” (pdf) study reveals that while black men face alarmingly high incarceration rates, black women are disproportionately evicted from their homes.

According to the study, in any given year, approximately 16,000 adults and children are evicted in Milwaukee from approximately 6,000 housing units—that equates to 16 households evicted every day.


Full Story: http://www.theroot.com/articles/culture/2014/06/study_eviction_rates_for_black_women_on_par_with_incarcerations_for_black.html

Black Caucus targets powerful Republican in push for voting rights fix

Article
The Hill
Mike Lillis
June 18, 2014

The head of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) is pushing House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) to take up legislation restoring the voting rights protections shot down by the Supreme Court last year.


Full Story: http://thehill.com/homenews/house/209802-black-caucus-targets-goodlatte-in-push-for-voting-rights-fix

Obama Leaving His Mark On Judiciary As Senate Confirms Gay, Black Judges

Article
The Huffington Post
Jennifer Bendery
June 17, 2014


WASHINGTON -- The Senate made history on Tuesday with its vote to confirm Darrin Gayles to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Gayles, who was confirmed 98-0, is the nation's first openly gay African-American man to be confirmed to the federal bench. 


Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/06/17/obama-judges_n_5503075.html?utm_hp_ref=tw

The Corporate Diversity Charade

Article
The Huffington Post
John Fitzgerald Gates
June 17, 2014


The dirty little secret of corporate America and the practice of diversity is that 25 years after establishing "diversity" offices, most companies have not developed a mature understanding of how diversity can contribute to their bottom lines. Diversity management has a complicated history arising, as it does, from a sequence of discrimination lawsuits that unsettled corporate America in the early 1990s. As the list of individual and class action lawsuits grew, led by Texaco's race discrimination case and First Union's age discrimination lawsuit, both in 1994, a public relations backlash against the companies created a crisis of confidence among shareholders.



Full Story: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-fitzgerald-gates-phd/the-corporate-diversity-c_b_5493030.html?utm_hp_ref=tw

Cost of homelessness in Central Florida? $31K per person

Article
Orlando Sentinel
Kate Santich
May 21, 2014

Living on the streets isn't cheap: Each chronically homeless person in Central Florida costs the community roughly $31,000 a year, a new analysis being released Thursday shows.

Full Story: http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2014-05-21/news/os-cost-of-homelessness-orlando-20140521_1_homeless-individuals-central-florida-commission-tulsa

Friday, June 20, 2014

Press Call Advisory for Monday, 6/23: Georgia Leaders to Push for Congressional Action on Voting Rights


Press Release
The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Scott Simpson, 202.466.2061, simpson@civilrights.org
June 20, 2014

Almost One Year after Supreme Court Decision on the Voting Rights Act, Georgia Voting Rights Leaders and Experts Hold Call on Needed Protections


GEORGIA – On Monday, June 23 at 11:30 a.m. EDT, leaders and experts from the voting rights community will hold a press call to urge Congress to pass the Voting Rights Amendment Act (VRAA) and discuss the continued discrimination against voters in the state. The Senate will hold the first congressional hearing on the VRAA just days later.

Full Story: http://www.civilrights.org/press/2014/Georgia-VRAA-Anniverary-Press-Call.html

New Report Detailing Recent Voting Discrimination Released by Civil and Human Rights Coalition

Press Release
The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
Scott Simpson, 202.466.2061, simpson@civilrights.org
June 20, 2014

WASHINGTON – The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights today released a new report, The Persistent Challenge of Voting Discrimination, which details nearly 150 recent voting violations. The report was released in advance of the one-year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Shelby County v. Holder, and demonstrates the urgent need to find solutions to protect the right to vote for all Americans, and for Congress to pass the Voting Rights Amendment Act before November’s elections.


Full Story: http://www.civilrights.org/press/2014/VRA-Violations-Report.html


Proposed rule to extend Family Medical Leave Act protections to all eligible employees in same-sex marriages announced by US Labor Secretary

WHD News Release: [06/20/2014]
Contact Name: Jennifer Marion or Jason Surbey
Phone Number: (202) 693-5795 or x4668
Email: 
marion.jennifer.r@dol.gov or Surbey.Jason@dol.gov

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez announced today a proposed rule extending the protections of the Family and Medical Leave Act to all eligible employees in legal same-sex marriages regardless of where they live. The proposal would help ensure that all families will have the flexibility to deal with serious medical and family situations without fearing the threat of job loss. Secretary Perez is proposing this rule in light of the Supreme Court's decision in United States v. Windsor, in which the court struck down the Defense of Marriage Act provision that interpreted "marriage" and "spouse" to be limited to opposite-sex marriage for the purposes of federal law.

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/whd/WHD20141208.htm

$74M in grants to provide employment services for formerly incarcerated adults and youth with juvenile records announced by US Labor Department

ETA News Release: June 19, 2014
Contact Name: Jason Kuruvilla or David Roberts
Phone Number: (202) 693-6587 or x5945
Email: 
Kuruvilla.Jason@dol.gov or Roberts.David@dol.gov

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the award of $74 million in grants to 37 community service organizations to provide employment, training and support services to successfully re-integrate formerly incarcerated adults and youth involved in the juvenile justice system into their communities. Grantees are expected to provide a range of services that include case management, mentoring, education and training that leads to industry-recognized credentials.

Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20141195.htm

Statement by US Labor Secretary Thomas E. Perez on mayors' resolution calling for an increase in the national minimum wage

OPA News Release: June 19, 2014
Contact Name: Jason Surbey
Phone Number: (202) 693-4668
Email: 
Surbey.Jason@dol.gov


WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez today issued the following statement regarding the resolution under consideration at the meeting of the United States Conference of Mayors in Dallas, Texas, June 20-23 that calls for an increase in the national minimum wage:



Full Story: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/opa/OPA20141198.htm

South Florida Federal, Local Agencies to Observe 50th Anniversary of 1964 Civil Rights Act

Press Release
June 18, 2014


Landmark Legislation Still Holds Significance for Millions of Americans
MIAMI -- Several federal agencies and local government bodies will join forces on July 2 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of President Lyndon B. Johnson's signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (CRA).  The landmark legislation, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, was envisioned and drafted by President Kennedy in 1963 and was enacted in 1964 following his assassination. 


Full Story: http://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/6-18-14.cfm

The President's Corner




Saluting My Colleagues in these Commemorative years


This is my first note to you from these pages as AAAED president.  I am both humbled and honored by the opportunity you have given me.  I am especially grateful for the kind words and expressions of support that have been offered to me and other newly elected officers.  From its founding 40 years ago, AAAED has been structured to be reliant upon the strength and vibrancy of its members.  Indeed, our historical organizational model is one where leadership flows from our regions and states.  AAAED is YOUR association, and there are many opportunities for you to be involved. In the days and weeks ahead, I hope to engage with you more specifically about these opportunities and how you can play a more participatory role.


Forty years is an impressive milestone considering the often short-lived history of many professional associations.  Given the nature of what we do, and given the headwinds of political opportunism and obstruction, judicial betrayal and economic threat, that we have survived these four decades is a tribute to the women and men who provided leadership for the association, in good times and bad, from its founding to the present day.  In this regard, I would be remiss if I did not take this occasion to thank my immediate predecessor, Gregory T. Chambers, for his consequential and visionary leadership these past 4 years.  He brought keen organizational insight, exercised wisdom and prudence, demonstrated foresight and judgment, and created a welcoming working atmosphere on the board to see it through some difficult challenges. Fortunately I, and AAAED, will have his continued guidance as he serves as Immediate Past President for the next year. 


We've reached this significant milestone of 4 decades at a time when we are also commemorating other consequential events, legislation, and judicial rulings that transformed the history of social justice for our nation.  As we consider our 40th anniversary, we are reminded that this also marks the 50th anniversary of the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.  Last year, 2013, the nation paused to recall the 50th anniversary of the historic March on Washington and Dr. King's famous "I Have A Dream" speech. Next year, in 2015, we will celebrate and remember the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act and the signing of Executive Order 11246.  And in just a few years, 2018, we will pause again to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act.  The profound reach and impact of these laws and regulations in creating greater access, equity and diversity in our workplaces, educational institutions and communities cannot be overstated.  While the ideal of "equal opportunity for all" that these laws and events imbued in the American body politic remain as yet not fully realized, we are indeed a more perfect Union.


In my view, it is not just simply fortuitous that AAAED is sharing its milestone of 40 years alongside these historic and consequential anniversaries.  In a real sense it was left to you, my colleagues, to take the ideals embodied in these laws and make them real and operational in workplaces and educational institutions throughout our nation.  It was left to you, my colleagues, to cajole, enforce, and monitor the implementation of these laws, so that millions of your fellow citizens would be able to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness unrestrained by discriminatory barriers.  It was left to you, my colleagues, through your daily work as EEO and affirmative action professionals, as equity and diversity officers, to transform the hope and aspirations of these laws and regulations into meaningful and vital programs that made our workplaces and universities fairer and more inclusive.  


And so, as I reflect upon these significant milestones, I believe a word, a good word, of commendation is due to you, my colleagues, for the consequential role you have played and continue to play in the further perfecting of our nation's democracy.  We still have a ways to go, and with our ever evolving understanding of diversity, we may never reach the end point of our efforts to be truly inclusive.  Nevertheless, what is clear is that the ideals and values represented by the work you have done over these past 40 years has proven indispensable as we continue this American journey to more fully become "We the people",   I salute you!


--Marshall Rose, President, AAAED

Women on the Board: Quotas Have Limited Success

Article
The New York Times
Claire Cain Miller
June 19, 2014

One of the most perplexing questions about women in business is how to increase their numbers in the upper ranks, where their progress to the top has stalled.

In increasingly popular idea in Europe is affirmative action for executives - requiring companies to include a certain percentage of women in management, particularly on their boards. Improvement at the top, the thinking goes, is likely to filter down at companies, improving the pay an representation of women at lower levels.

Full Story: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/20/upshot/women-on-the-board-quotas-have-limited-success.html?module=Search&mabReward=relbias%3Aw&_r=0

Changes to Campus Safety Rules

Article
Inside Higher Ed
Jake New
June 20, 2014

In a continuing effort to curb campus sexual assaults, the Department of Education officially proposed a new rule Thursday that requires colleges and universities to compile statistics for incidents of dating violence, domestic violence and stalking.


Full Story: http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2014/06/20/white-house-publishes-new-rules-reporting-investigating-sexual-assaults#sthash.Rcd3OncL.dpbs

35 per cent affirmative action: Nigeria’s female delegates peeved

Article
The News Nigeria

June 19, 2014


Abuja- Proceedings at the National Conference were brought to a temporary halt on Wednesday as women delegates protested the vote against 35 per cent affirmative action by the male delegates.
The Committee on Social Sector, recommended that the 35 per cent affirmative action shall be upheld at all levels and tiers of government in appointment and elective positions.


Full Story: http://thenewsnigeria.com.ng/2014/06/19/35-per-cent-affirmative-action-nigerias-female-delegates-peeved/

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Women of Color in Elective Office 2014 by the Center for American Women and Politics

Fact Sheet

Of the 99 women serving in the 112th U.S. Congress, 30, or 30.3%, are women of color; in addition, an African American woman and a Caribbean American woman serve as Delegates to the House from Washington, DC and the Virgin Islands, respectively. Women of color constitute 4.5% of the total 535 member of Congress.

Full Report: http://www.cawp.rutgers.edu/fast_facts/levels_of_office/documents/color.pdf

South Carolina DMV tells gender non-conforming teen he can’t take driver’s license photo with makeup

Article
The Washington Post
Saraya Nadia McDonald
June 18, 2014


Getting your driver’s license is supposed to be a relatively happy rite of passage, but for one South Carolina teen, it turned into much more of an ordeal because he is gender non-conforming.
Chase Culpepper, 16, went to a DMV in Anderson, S.C., to get his driver’s license. He was told that he would have to remove his makeup. The DMV’s justification was that Culpepper “did not look the way a boy should,” according to WYFF News.


Full Story: http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2014/06/18/south-carolina-dmv-tells-gender-non-conforming-teen-he-cant-take-drivers-license-photo-with-makeup/

Boehner knocks Obama’s minimum wage executive order

Article
The Washington Post
Ed O'Keefe
January 28, 2014

House Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) on Tuesday dismissed as insignificant President Obama's plans to raise the minimum wage for federal contractors.

Full Story: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics/wp/2014/01/28/boehner-knocks-obamas-minimum-wage-executive-order/

How will Republicans respond to unilateral action on gay workplace discrimination?

Article
The Washington Post
Greg Sargent
June 16, 2014



Jennifer Bendery and Sam Stein report on a big, if belated, move by Obama to circumvent Congressional Republicans’ refusal to act on gay workplace discrimination:
President Barack Obama has directed his staff to draft an executive order that would ban workplace discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees of federal contractors, a White House official told The Huffington Post.

Full Story: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/plum-line/wp/2014/06/16/how-will-republicans-respond-to-unilateral-action-on-gay-workplace-discrimination/

Study: Putting religion on your résumé hurts your job chances — unless you’re Jewish

Article
The Washington Post
Gail Sullivan
June 18, 2014



It was a big deal on AMC’s “Mad Men” when Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce hired Michael Ginsberg in season five. Hiring “the Jew,” as Roger Sterling referred to him, was an attempt to update the agency’s image in an era (1966) when those who clung to the notion that business was a WASPy boys’ club were on the wrong side of the generation gap – a potential problem for an ad firm looking to reach young consumers.



Full Story: http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2014/06/18/study-putting-religion-on-your-resume-hurts-your-job-chances-unless-youre-jewish/

Unemployment Statistics by the OFCCP

News Release
US Department of Labor
June 19, 2014 

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE WEEKLY CLAIMS 

SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA


In the week ending June 14, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 312,000, a decrease of 6,000 from the previous week's revised level. The previous week's level was revised up by 1,000 from 317,000 to 318,000. The 4-week moving average was 311,750, a decrease of 3,750 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised up by 250 from 315,250 to 315,500.

Full Report: http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/eta/ETA20141134.pdf

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Why Are Rwandans Disappearing?

Article
NY Times
Lara Santoro and Susan Thomson
June 17, 204

Virginie Uwamahoro vanished in April. A primary school teacher, she was last seen settling in for the three-hour bus ride from the Rwandan border town of Gisenyi to Kigali, the capital. She called a friend once she got into town: Someone from the government wanted to see her. She would drop by his office before heading home.

Full Story: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/18/opinion/why-are-rwandans-disappearing.html

Female Activist in Haryana Works Within System for Change

Article
NY Times
Betwa Sharma
June 17, 2014


Over a cup of milky tea some months ago in a nondescript hotel in Rohtak, a dusty town of steel and oil mills, colleges and auto repair shops, Santosh Dahiya reflected on the slow-moving pace of change in the mostly rural state of Haryana.
She is the head of the women’s wing of the Sarve Khap, Sarve Jaatiya Mahapanchayat, an umbrella organization of khap panchayats, traditionally all-male unelected councils in north India that exercise a great deal of social control.

Full Story: http://india.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/06/17/female-activist-in-haryana-works-within-system-for-change/?module=Search&mabReward=relbias%3Ar

How to Help Myanmar’s Muslim Minority

Article
NY Times
Nicole Sganga
June 17, 2014


It’s a question I’ve heard over and over again from readers who learn about the persecuted Rohingya Muslim minority in Myanmar. For a couple of weeks now, I’ve been asking myself the same thing: “What can we do to help?”
The question is complicated. There is no “perfect solution” to halting ethnic tensions between Buddhists and Muslims in Western Myanmar, nor is there one approach to confronting the government persecution of the Rohingyas.


Full Story: http://kristof.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/06/17/how-to-help-myanmars-muslim-minority/?module=Search&mabReward=relbias%3Ar

Finally, an Executive Order on LGBT Workplace Discrimination

Article
NY Times
Dorothy J. Samuels
June 17, 2014

Workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity “needs to stop,” President Obama said last November, “because in the United States of America, who you are and who you love should never be a fireable offense.” But November came and went, as did 2013, and the first quarter of 2014, without the president heeding the rising calls for executive action.

Full Story: http://takingnote.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/06/17/finally-an-executive-order-on-lgbt-workplace-discrimination/

U.S. Professors Call on Colleges to Re-evaluate Confucius Institutes

Article
NY Times
Amy Qin
June 17, 2014

The American Association of University Professors is calling on universities to uphold principles of academic freedom by either terminating or renegotiating the agreements that have brought nearly 100 Chinese government-backed cultural and language programs called Confucius Institutes to campuses across the United States and Canada.

Full Story: http://sinosphere.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/06/17/u-s-professors-call-on-colleges-to-re-evaluate-confucius-institutes/?module=Search&mabReward=relbias%3Ar