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Black Church Leaders Call for Halt to All US Funding of Israel Amid ‘Mass Genocide’

AJ Woodson
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Black Church Leaders Call for Halt to All US Funding of Israel Amid ‘Mass Genocide’

African Methodist Episcopal Church Leaders Call for Halt to All US Funding of Israel

The bishops accused Israel of denying Palestinians “access to food, water, shelter, and health care” and said that “after this torture, they plan to murder them.”

The African Methodist Episcopal Church’s top officials have called for the U.S. government to halt all its funding of Israel, citing the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians in the Hamas-Israel war.

In its statement, the church’s Council of Bishops said in part:  

“Today as we celebrate the birth of Richard Allen, the apostle of freedom, Israel has trapped 1.6 million desperate Palestinians in the southern Gaza city called Rafah. Most of them are women and children. They have denied them access to food, water, shelter, and health care. After this torture, they plan to murder them. The United States of America will have likely paid for the weapons they use. This must not be allowed to happen.

“The Council of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Church calls on the United States Government to immediately withdraw all funding and other support from Israel.”

“Since October 7, 2023, in retaliation for the brutal murder of 1,139 Israeli citizens by Hamas, Israel has murdered over 28,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children. The United States is supporting this mass genocide. This must not be allowed to continue.”

The statement was signed by Bishop Adam J. Richardson, senior bishop of the denomination; Bishop Stafford J.N. Wicker, president of the bishops’ council; Bishop E. Anne Henning Byfield, chair of social action, and Bishop Francine A. Brookins, co-chair of social action.

Bishop Harry L. Seawright, the leader of the AME’s Alabama district, said in a Thursday interview with Religion News Service that he and other bishops also supported the statement, which he said reflects the denomination’s stances on social action.

“We have always tried to take a social stand against injustice, unfair treatment of all people,” he said.

On Saturday, February 17th, The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, welcomed a statement by the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

In a statement, CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper said:

“We welcome this principled statement by the African Methodist Episcopal Church Council of Bishops as a reflection of the growing movement nationwide in support of Palestinian humanity and human rights. The Biden administration must respond to the majority of Americans who seek an end to Israeli government’s ethnic cleansing and genocide by demanding an immediate ceasefire and a just resolution to the crisis that recognizes that Palestinians are also human beings worthy of life, freedom and dignity.”

CAIR condemned the far-right Israeli government’s latest war crime in Gaza after at least five patients died when their oxygen ran out as Khan Younis’ Nasser Hospital was stormed by Israeli troops in violation of international humanitarian law.

While several Christian organizations and leaders have called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas – including the National Council of the Churches in Christ – or offered aid to Christians and Muslims living in the Gaza Strip, this is the first such call for a cessation of all American assistance to the Jewish State.

Last week, The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) and Majlis Ash Shura: Islamic Leadership Council of New York condemned Westchester County Executive George Latimer’s refusal to say that all Muslims are not part of Hamas in a Facebook post relating to his New York Times exposé. 

The AME is one of the oldest Black church denominations in the United States. The announcement came out on the birthday of the church’s founder, Richard Allen, who laid the foundation for the church in 1787. Allen was an enslaved person who bought his freedom before founding the church.

‘We remain in solidarity with Jesus Christ of Nazareth, a Palestinian Jew’

“There must be an immediate and permanent ceasefire between these two communities,” the AME bishops wrote. “Surely there is a grassroots solution that affirms the dignity and humanity of all God’s people in Palestine and Israel. The tools of empire, colonialism, and domination will not solve the problems they created. 

“The cycle of violence between historically wounded peoples will not be dissolved by the creation of more wounds or through weapons of war,” they continued. “We remain in solidarity with Jesus Christ of Nazareth, a Palestinian Jew, and the Prince of Peace.”

PBP Radio – Episode 388

AJ Woodson
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PBP Radio – Episode 388

Black Westchester presents The People Before Politics Radio Show – Episode 388, with Damon K. Jones and AJ Woodson. 

Giving you that Real Talk For The Community since 2014

As always, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Black Westchester Publisher Damon K. Jones Fires Back at Accusations of Misogyny: Demands Proof or Apology from White Plains Democrat Chair, Tim James

DAMON K JONES
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Black Westchester Publisher Damon K. Jones Fires Back at Accusations of Misogyny: Demands Proof or Apology from White Plains Democrat Chair, Tim James

Damon K. Jones, Publisher of Black Westchester, fearlessly confronts attempts to discredit him while speaking truth to power. Despite facing dismissal, discrediting, demonization, and false accusations, Jones remains steadfast in his commitment to truth-telling, speaking truth to power, and informing the people on how politics rule our everyday lives.

In a recent email exchange, Damon K. Jones, the Publisher of Black Westchester, found himself taken aback by accusations of misogyny levied against him by Tim James, the Democratic Chairman of the White Plains Democratic Party. Jones, known for his outspoken advocacy and dedication to his community, responded firmly to these allegations.

Jones began by extending a direct invitation to Tim James to appear on his show, expressing a desire to address the rumors circulating about him. “I’ve heard many rumors that you have been talking about me in email threads,” Jones stated. “So I’m personally inviting you to come on the show.”

Asserting his confusion over the accusations, Jones highlighted his longstanding commitment to women, emphasizing his loving relationships with his wife and granddaughters. “I’m loved by women all over for my character and integrity,” he declared. “You have the damn nerve to call me something and you don’t even know me.”

Challenging James to substantiate his claims, Jones demanded proof of any alleged misogynistic behavior. “If you’re going to make a statement like that, we’re demanding that you show proof of what it is that you say,” Jones asserted. “You better have the receipts.”

Furthermore, Jones pointedly addressed issues within the White Plains Democratic Party, questioning the lack of diversity in their political slate and referencing past controversies involving racial slurs. “Didn’t the White Plains Democratic Party run an all-white slate for the council last year?” Jones questioned. “And you got the nerve to call me a misogynist?”

Throughout his response, Jones emphasized his commitment to honesty and transparency, inviting James to engage in an open dialogue rather than resorting to anonymous accusations. “I invite you on the show so we can have an honest conversation,” Jones stated. “Say what you have to say to the person and not be sending blank emails out about them.”

Jones Views Accusations as Retaliation by Democratic Leaders: Attributes Criticism to Black Westchester’s Stand Against AIPAC and Corporate Funding in Latimer vs. Bowman Race, Asserts Party Influence by Groups Seeking to Suppress Minority Votes, Especially in Congressional District 16.

In closing, Jones made it clear that he would not tolerate baseless attacks on his character and reputation. “I’m waiting for the other emails because I just might sue them,” he warned. “I’m just waiting for the other emails, and I just might sue you for defamation.”

Damon K. Jones’s response highlights his steadfast dedication to integrity, accountability, and fair treatment, not only in his personal conduct but also in his expectations of others. As this exchange demonstrates, Jones remains committed to defending his reputation and standing up against unjust accusations.

The World Court Takes on Isreal 57-Year Occupation of Palestine

DAMON K JONES
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The World Court Takes on Isreal 57-Year Occupation of Palestine

Next week, over 50 countries will participate in hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) examining the legal consequences of Israel’s 57-year occupation of Palestine. This landmark case follows the Court’s seismic ruling last month that Israel is “plausibly” committing genocide in Gaza.

For nearly six decades, Israel has occupied the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Gaza Strip, Golan Heights and at times the Sinai Peninsula following its conquests in the 1967 war. Despite removing troops and settlers from Gaza over 20 years ago, the UN contends Israel still occupies Gaza by controlling its airspace, waters and the flow of people and goods.

Human rights groups are urging participating countries to use these hearings to spotlight Israel’s horrific abuses of Palestinians living under occupation, including crimes against humanity like apartheid and persecution.

The Current Crisis in Gaza

Israel’s recent assault on Gaza has been marked by likely war crimes and crimes against humanity. Since October alone, Israeli forces have killed over 100,000 Palestinians in Gaza, displaced 90% of the population, and left the strip on the brink of a deadly ground invasion.

Israeli leaders have disturbingly called for reoccupying and ethnic cleansing Gaza amid the ongoing attacks. Meanwhile in the occupied West Bank, at least 388 Palestinians including 99 children have lost their lives.

For years, Israeli settlers have steadily colonized Palestinian lands with the protection of the Israeli military. Palestinians whose homes and lands are stolen face violent ethnic cleansing.

South Africa’s Genocide Case Against Israel

These World Court hearings follow South Africa’s case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza – the first nation to present next week. Last month, the ICJ made the groundbreaking ruling that Israel is “plausibly” committing genocide and must adhere to all its duties under the Genocide Convention.

South Africa urgently appealed to the ICJ earlier this week to act as Israel threatens a deadly ground offensive on Gaza’s crammed refugee camps. While the Court declined additional action for now, it reiterated the “perilous situation” demands immediate implementation of provisional measures to protect Palestinian lives.

The prolonged Israeli occupation has brought untold suffering upon generations of Palestinians through displacements, mass killings, and likely genocide. These imminent international legal proceedings give hope that justice may finally be on the horizon.

Hakeem Jeffries Blast NYS IRC: Instead of Remedying issues, the IRC Exacerbates Them

DAMON K JONES
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Hakeem Jeffries Blast NYS IRC: Instead of Remedying issues, the IRC Exacerbates Them

The New York State Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) recently unveiled a new congressional district map, mainly retaining the existing boundaries with only minor alterations in some upstate districts. However, uncertainty looms over whether the Legislature will accept this proposal or craft its own. While a state Senate Democrat has voiced opposition, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins have yet to take a definitive stance.

Hakeem Jeffries, the Minority Leader in the US Congress, criticized the IRC’s proposal, highlighting concerns about the failure to address key flaws in the current map drawn by an unelected special master in 2022. Jeffries noted that the IRC’s map disregards or exacerbates substantive issues related to communities of interest, particularly in parts of New York State like the upper Hudson Valley.

Both Stewart-Cousins and Heastie will feel significant pressure from various partisan interests, including allies of Jeffries, who have been vocal in their criticism of the current district lines. Democratic lawmakers and strategists have expressed dissatisfaction with the proposed map, citing its similarity to the current map they seek to replace and raising concerns about New York’s compliance despite Republican gerrymandering tactics in other states.

Jeffries also stated, The IRC map breaks apart six additional counties in New York State, including one that appears gratuitously designed to impermissibly benefit an incumbent in the 19th Congressional District. That would be a clear violation of the New York State Constitution. Now that the Independent Redistricting Commission has completed its work, it is important that the Legislature ensure – as the Constitution contemplates – that the people of New York State be afforded a fairly drawn congressional map.”

The Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) has faced scrutiny, particularly in the Westchester area, where questions have been raised about potential conflicts of interest. This scrutiny stems from the fact that the IRC Chairman, Ken Jenkins, also serves as Deputy County Executive to George Latimer, who is running for the 16th Congressional District. Latimer openly acknowledged that the redistricting process could impact his electoral prospects. Given Jenkins’ pivotal role in shaping district boundaries as Deputy County Executive, concerns have arisen about possible conflicts of interest.

State Sen. James Skoufis strongly criticized the proposed map, particularly its division of Orange County to protect incumbents. The proposal also adjusts districts like the 22nd in Central New York to lean more Democratic. The fate of the proposed map now lies with the Legislature, which is scheduled to reconvene later in February. Former Rep. Lee Zeldin supports the proposed maps and urges legislators to avoid further alterations, cautioning against partisan maneuvers that could result in legal challenges.

If lawmakers reject the plan, they must swiftly devise and vote on an alternative map before petitioning begins on Feb. 27. However, a backup plan must be prepared before the IRC’s proposal is dismissed. While lawmakers possess a supermajority to approve the new map, dissenting Democrats could jeopardize its passage or necessitate Republican support.

Independent Redistricting Commission unveils NYS Congressional map

AJ Woodson
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Independent Redistricting Commission unveils NYS Congressional map

The New York State Independent Redistricting Commission-made up of five Democrats and five Republicans-unveiled a new congressional map.

The commission voted 9 to 1 to send the map to the state legislature.

Republican Commissioner, Charles Nesbitt, estimates the map to be more than 90% similar to the Congressional map already in place. However, the commissioners noted some changes were made.

“From the work that was done, all together there was 16 out of 26 districts that had some level of change,” explained Ken Jenkins, Democratic Chair of the IRC.

New York 22 in Central New York is one of the districts most impacted.

Congressman Brandon Williams released a statement saying in part, “I find myself in my 5th congressional race in just two-years. Changing lines won’t change minds—voters want common sense and relief from Progressive fantasies.”

The next step in the process is for the map to be reviewed by the state legislature and then voted on. At this time, it’s unclear as to when that will happen, seeing as though lawmakers are not scheduled to be in Albany next week.

“The Senate Majority is eager to review the proposed map submitted by the IRC,” Senate Majority Leader, Andrea Stewart-Cousins said in a statement. “We plan to discuss and decide our subsequent actions soon, taking into account the election cycle calendar. This process is critically important and we are committed to concluding it in a manner that upholds fairness and democracy.”

Back in 2014, New Yorkers voted to have an independent redistricting commission. When the commission couldn’t agree on one maps in 2022, the state legislature drew one itself.

A judge later ruled those lines unconstitutional and ordered a special master to create the map that was used in the 2022 election.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the new congressional map, suggesting that it unconstitutionally benefits Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro.

“The map adopted by the Independent Redistricting Commission should be meticulously scrutinized by the New York State Legislature, particularly as it relates to compliance with provisions in the State Constitution designed to protect historically under-represented communities. There is reason to be concerned with the failure of the IRC to address many of the flaws in the current map drawn by an unelected, out-of-town special master in 2022. Instead of remedying several of the substantive issues raised by good government groups related to communities of interest, the IRC map ignores or exacerbates them in parts of New York State, including the upper Hudson Valley.

The IRC map breaks apart six additional counties in New York State, including one that appears gratuitously designed to impermissibly benefit an incumbent in the 19th Congressional District. That would be a clear violation of the New York State Constitution. Now that the Independent Redistricting Commission has completed its work, it is important that the legislature ensure—as the Constitution contemplates—that the people of New York State be afforded a fairly drawn congressional map.”

Jeffries’ public statement puts pressure on state lawmakers to reject the bipartisan map and draw their own. “I think the Dems in the Senate and Assembly have PTSD from last year’s redistricting debacle and have little appetite for voting down the new lines,” one Democratic insider said. “That said, these maps are very much not what the Democrats had hoped for, and certainly not what DC wants to see.”

As part of the compromise approved Thursday, the heavily watched 16th Congressional District, which includes a slice of The Bronx and southern parts of Westchester County, remained virtually unchanged.

Two-term Democratic Congressman Jamaal Bowman is facing a primary challenge from Westchester County Executive George Latimer, who previously served in the New York State Assembly and NYS Senate.

Latimer said Thursday he was moving forward with his bid and he is confident that the state legislature will complete the process of approving the map.

“Regardless of the timing or the ultimate disposition of the lines, we look forward to continuing to bring our message of progressive results that benefit the people of our area, in whatever neighborhood they live and whatever jurisdictions are ultimately assigned to CD-16,” Latimer said in a statement.

New York faces a court-ordered deadline of February 28 to complete its redistricting process, but it was unclear Thursday when the state legislature would next meet to consider the map.

Judge orders Trump to pay $355 million for lying about his wealth in staggering civil fraud ruling

AJ Woodson
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Judge orders Trump to pay $355 million for lying about his wealth in staggering civil fraud ruling

NEW YORK (AP) — A New York judge ordered Donald Trump on Friday to pay $355 million in penalties, finding that the former president lied about his wealth for years in a sweeping civil fraud verdict that pierces his billionaire image but stops short of putting his real estate empire out of business.

Judge Arthur Engoron’s decision after a trial in New York Attorney General Letitia James’ lawsuit punishes Trump, his company and executives, including his two eldest sons, for scheming to dupe banks, insurers and others by inflating his wealth on financial statements. It forces a shakeup at the top of his Trump Organization, putting the company under court supervision and curtailing how it does business.

The decision is a staggering setback for the Republican presidential front-runner, the latest and costliest consequence of his recent legal troubles. The magnitude of the verdict on top of penalties in other cases could dramatically dent Trump’s financial resources and damage his identity as a savvy businessman who parlayed his fame as a real estate developer into reality TV stardom and the presidency. He has vowed to appeal and won’t have to pay immediately.

Trump’s true punishment could be far costlier because under state law he is also required to pay interest on the penalties, which James said puts him on the hook for a total of more than $450 million. The amount, which would be paid to the state, will grow until he pays.

The judge made clear, however, that the Trump Organization will continue to operate, backing away from an earlier ruling that would have dissolved Trump’s companies.

Engoron, a Democrat, concluded that Trump and his company were “likely to continue their fraudulent ways” without the penalties and controls he imposed. Engoron concluded that Trump and his co-defendants “failed to accept responsibility” and that experts who testified on his behalf “simply denied reality.”

“This is a venial sin, not a mortal sin,” Engoron wrote in a searing 92-page opinion. “They did not rob a bank at gunpoint. Donald Trump is not Bernard Madoff. Yet, defendants are incapable of admitting the error of their ways.”

He said their “complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological” and “the frauds found here leap off the page and shock the conscience.”

Trump said the decision was “election inference” and “weaponization against a political opponent,” complaining to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida that he was being penalized for “having built a perfect company, great cash, great buildings, great everything.”

James, a Democrat, told reporters “justice has been served” and called the ruling “a tremendous victory for this state, this nation, and for everyone who believes that we all must play by the same rules — even former presidents.”

“Now, Donald Trump is finally facing accountability for his lying, cheating, and staggering fraud. Because no matter how big, rich or powerful you think you are, no one is above the law,” James said.

Trump still owns the Trump Organization, but he put his assets into a revocable trust and relinquished a leadership role when he became president in 2017, putting his sons Eric and Donald Trump Jr. in charge of day-to-day operations. Engoron’s ruling imposes a three-year ban on Trump serving as an officer or director of any New York company and bars his sons for two years, effectively requiring the company to find new leadership, at least temporarily.

The monetary penalties involve what Engoron said were “ill-gotten gains” that Trump attained by making himself seem richer. They include money Trump saved by securing lower loan interest rates and profits from the sale of properties that he might not have been able to develop without that financing.

Eric and Donald Trump Jr. were each ordered to pay $4 million, their share of profits from the 2022 sale of Trump’s Washington, D.C. hotel, and the company’s former longtime chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg was ordered to pay $1 million — half of the $2 million severance he’s receiving. All told, Trump and his co-defendants owe $364 million, which James’ office said grows to $464 million when interest is included. Weisselberg and another longtime company executive, Jeffrey McConney, were barred from ever holding a corporate finance or leadership role in the state.

Engoron put the Trump Organization under the supervision of a independent monitor for at least three years, extending oversight he ordered after James sued Trump in 2022, and said the company must hire an independent compliance director to ensure that it follows financial reporting obligations and rules.

Engoron wrote that stripping Trump of his companies, as he’d previously ordered, was no longer necessary because the company will be under a “two-tiered oversight” with the independent monitor, retired federal judge Barbara Jones, and the compliance director keeping an eye on any activities that could lead to fraud.

Because it was civil, not criminal, the case did not carry the potential of prison time.

Engoron issued his decision after a 2½-month trial that Trump turned into a frequent, albeit unorthodox campaign stage. He trekked to court nearly a dozen times, watching testimony, grousing to news cameras outside the courtroom and bristling under oath that he was the victim of a rigged legal system.

During the trial, Trump called Engoron “extremely hostile” and James “a political hack.” He also incurred $15,000 in fines for violating a gag order that the judge imposed after he made a disparaging and untrue social media post about a key court staffer.

In a six-minute diatribe during closing arguments in January, Trump proclaimed “I am an innocent man” and called the case a “fraud on me.”

Trump has boasted for years about his wealth, but James’ lawsuit alleged that his claims weren’t just harmless bragging but years of deceptive practices as he built the multinational collection of skyscrapers, golf courses and other properties that catapulted him to wealth, fame and the White House.

The suit accused Trump and his co-defendants of routinely puffing up his financial statements to create an illusion his properties were more valuable than they really were. State lawyers said Trump exaggerated his wealth by as much as $3.6 billion one year.

James brought the case under a New York law that authorizes her to investigate persistent fraud in business dealings. Trump incorporated the Trump Organization in New York in 1981.

Even before the trial began, Engoron ruled that James had proven Trump’s financial statements were fraudulent. The judge ordered some of Trump’s companies removed from his control and dissolved. An appeals court put that decision on hold.

In that earlier ruling, the judge found that, among other tricks, Trump’s financial statements had wrongly claimed his Trump Tower penthouse was nearly three times its actual size and overvalued his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, based on the idea that the property could be developed for residential use, even though he had surrendered rights to develop it for any uses but a club.

Trump, one of 40 witnesses to testify at the trial, said his financial statements actually understated his net worth. Trump maintains that he is worth several billion dollars and testified last year that he had about $400 million in cash, in addition to properties and other investments.

Reiterating his testimony, Trump said Friday, “There were no victims because the banks made a lot of money.”

Trump and his lawyers have said outside accountants who helped prepare the statements should have flagged any discrepancies and have said the documents came with disclaimers that shielded him from liability. They also argued that some of the allegations were barred by the statute of limitations.

Engoron decided the case because neither side sought a jury and state law doesn’t allow for juries for this type of lawsuit.

The suit is one of many legal headaches for Trump as he campaigns for a return to the White House. He has been indicted four times in the last year — accused in Georgia and Washington, D.C., of plotting to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden, in Florida of hoarding classified documents, and in Manhattan of falsifying business records related to hush money paid to porn actor Stormy Daniels on his behalf.

On Thursday, a judge confirmed Trump’s hush-money trial will start March 25. A judge in Atlanta heard arguments Thursday and Friday on whether to remove Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from his Georgia election interference case because she had a personal relationship with a special prosecutor she hired.

Those criminal accusations haven’t appeared to undermine his march toward a rematch with President Joe Biden, but civil litigation has threatened him financially.

Last month, a jury ordered Trump to pay $83.3 million to writer E. Jean Carroll for defaming her after she accused him in 2019 of sexually assaulting her in a Manhattan department store in the 1990s. That’s on top of the $5 million a jury awarded Carroll in a related trial last year.

In 2022, the Trump Organization was convicted of tax fraud and fined $1.6 million in an unrelated criminal case for helping executives dodge taxes on extravagant perks such as Manhattan apartments and luxury cars.

James, who campaigned for office as a Trump critic and watchdog, started scrutinizing his business practices in March 2019 after his former personal lawyer Michael Cohen testified to Congress that Trump exaggerated his wealth on financial statements provided to Deutsche Bank while trying to obtain financing to buy the NFL’s Buffalo Bills.

James’ office previously sued Trump for misusing his own charitable foundation to further his political and business interests. Trump was ordered to pay $2 million to an array of charities as a fine and the charity, the Trump Foundation, was shut down.

__

BY MICHAEL R. SISAK, JAKE OFFENHARTZ AND JENNIFER PELTZ

Adriana Gomez Licon in Palm Beach, Florida, and Jill Colvin in New York contributed to this report.

JAKE OFFENHARTZ – Offenhartz is a general assignment reporter in the New York City bureau of The Associated Press.

New York Muslim Organizations Condemn Westchester CE, George Latimer’s Refusal to Say that All Muslims Are Not Hamas

DAMON K JONES
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New York Muslim Organizations Condemn Westchester CE, George Latimer’s Refusal to Say that All Muslims Are Not Hamas

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) and Majlis Ash Shura: Islamic Leadership Council of New York today condemned Westchester County Executive George Latimer’s refusal to say that all Muslims are not part of Hamas in a Facebook post relating to his New York Times exposé. 

The Westchester Black Political Conference (WBPC) recently urged Westchester County Executive George Latimer to respond to a New York Times exposé on Israeli demolitions of Palestinian buildings in a Facebook post. In the post, Latimer writes to WBPC, “I support the release of kidnapped hostages and Hamas renouncing violence to murder Jews. What do you support?” The WBPC responds, “the organization denounces all terrorism but asked him to also denounce Israel’s “acts of genocide” cited in International Court of Justice,” following with “Do you believe that all Muslims are members of HAMAS?” Latimer failed to respond to this question. 

SEE: Are All Muslims Members of HAMAS? George Latimer Refuses to Answer! 

In a statement CAIR-NY’s Executive Director Afaf Nasher said “We condemn Latimer’s failure to respond to the question asked by the WBPC, as well as his refusal to acknowledge the ongoing genocide in Palestine. Elected officials have a responsibility to protect all their constituents, regardless of national origin, faith, and political viewpoints. By choosing to remain silent when asked about all Muslim being Hamas, Latimer has tacitly endorsed racist and dangerous rhetoric, and potentially inflamed hate crimes and discrimination towards all Muslims.” 

“CAIR-NY also condemns Mr. Latimer for his refusal to acknowledge the ongoing genocide in Palestine. It is not difficult for any person of conscience, regardless of ethnicity, race or religion, to condemn the Israeli government’s documented mass murder of civilians, and the destruction of Palestinian homes, hospitals, schools, places of worship, and infrastructure. We call on Latimer and all elected servants to stand on the right side of history by calling upon the Israeli government to cease its illegal and inhumane actions and to respect the human rights of the Palestinian people.” 

In a statement Masjlis Ash Shura said “In light of George Latimer’s silence when confronted with the critical question of equating Muslims with Hamas, the Islamic Leadership Council of New York (Majlis Ash-Shura), in solidarity with CAIR-NY, strongly condemns this insinuation through lack of response. Silence in such contexts is not just a lack of words; it is a loud message that fosters misunderstanding and Islamophobia. We demand not just clarifications but a commitment to dialogue that respects and understands the multifaceted contributions of Muslims in America. Our unity and resilience in addressing such veiled bigotry will only amplify our efforts to ensure all Muslim voices are empowered and recognized for their positive contributions to our diverse society.”

CAIR-NY’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

Progressive Powerhouses Endorse Wagstaff For District Attorney

AJ Woodson
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Progressive Powerhouses Endorse Wagstaff For District Attorney

New York State Senators Jamaal T. Bailey, Nathalia Fernandez, and Assemblymember Dana Levenberg Endorse William Wagstaff For Westchester District Attorney

White Plains, NY—Westchester County District Attorney candidate William O. Wagstaff III announced endorsements from State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey, State Senator Nathalia Fernandez, and Assemblymember Dana Levenberg, boosting campaign support on the day of the Westchester County Democratic Party’s Nomination Convention. This comes on the heels of recent endorsements from Assemblymember Chris Burdick, the Mayor of the City of Peekskill, Vivian C. McKenzie, and the Westchester County Board of Legislators Majority Leader Tyrae Woodson-Samuels, along with a 100% pro-choice rating by Choice Matters.

Renowned civil rights and defense attorney William Wagstaff bolstered his frontrunner status as the Westchester County Democratic Committee is set to nominate one of three candidates in the heated DA race this evening.

“I have long advocated for significant criminal justice reforms and alternatives to incarceration while improving community relations and public safety. I must have government partners committed to this work and that is why I pledge my full support to William O. Wagstaff III for Westchester County District Attorney,” said Sen. Bailey (D-Westchester & The Bronx). “We need forward-thinking and innovative leadership that can understand that true public safety can only be achieved by coming together.”

“Sen. Bailey is THE voice in the State Senate leading the conversation on improving public safety while treating our communities with respect,” Wagstaff said. “I’m deeply appreciative of the Senator’s support as we deliver the real change that our justice system needs.”

Sen. Bailey, a leading criminal justice reform lawmaker, represents Mount Vernon, where Wagstaff serves as the city’s Special Prosecutor for Police Disciplinary Hearings, holding bad actors accountable while also supporting law enforcement.

The Mount Vernon native also serves as Special Counsel to Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, who also endorsed Wagstaff for DA.

“I am pleased and honored to announce the first official endorsement of my candidacy for District Attorney, Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard,” said William Wagstaff. “It is a privilege to work with Mayor Patterson-Howard as her Special Counsel and Chair of her Judicial Appointments Committee, as well as to serve as the city’s Special Prosecutor for Police Discipline. Providing Mayor Patterson-Howard with advice and counsel on issues of public safety, decisions on who has the qualifications and judicial temperament to serve on the bench, and holding police accountable have provided invaluable insight that will aid me in setting policy for the DA’s office. It is an incredible honor to have the unwavering support of the Mayor of my hometown and humbling that she continues to place her trust in me.”

State Senator Nathalia Fernandez (D-Westchester & The Bronx) said in her endorsement, “William is a dynamic leader with a clear commitment to empowering a fair and robust justice system. His unique experience and record of work give me confidence in his ability to deliver justice and equity while working closely with our communities to enhance measures of public safety. I am supporting him for Westchester District Attorney.”

“I’m extremely grateful for Senator Fernandez’s support—she has successfully implemented significant criminal justice reforms and is a steadfast advocate for equity,” said Wagstaff.

New York State Assemblymember Dana Levenberg (D – Westchester) said, “I am proud to endorse William Wagstaff for Westchester County District Attorney. William truly understands the root causes of the criminal justice system’s challenges. His unique perspective and experience are exactly what is needed to improve our system in a proactive, rather than reactive, fashion.”  

Wagstaff replied, “I’m honored to be backed by Assemblymember Levenberg, a true champion for promoting restorative justice and advancing game-changing laws to make our county and state safer and fairer.”

Assemblymember Levenberg’s praise of Wagstaff’s unique experience highlights the respected attorney handling many of Westchester’s highest-profile civil rights cases.  

Wagstaff, who also holds an MBA from Fordham, plans to use a forward-thinking, data-driven approach “to make Westchester County safer with integrity, to proactively address gun violence, hate crimes, domestic violence, and property crime.”  

As the Westchester County Democratic Committee makes its nomination for the District Attorney candidate this evening ahead of the June Primary, Wagstaff said that “the status quo is failing us, and I have a track record unlike any other candidate in history to deliver real change instead of rhetoric to bring fair and equitable justice to every corner of the county.”  

Other candidates “are going to speak to a career of being a former prosecutor, people who are doing things the way they’ve always been done,” Wagstaff concluded. “My track record, immense financial support, and over 30 diverse endorsements reflect that I am poised to meet the moment and make the District Attorney’s office a vehicle for positive change.”

Wagstaff III’s campaign for Westchester District Attorney has gained diverse endorsements from prominent area Democrats, building a broad coalition of support, in addition to the aforementioned elected officials from the White Plains, Mount Vernon, Bedford, New Castle, and Lewisboro Democratic Committees, the entire Mount Vernon City Council, Mount Vernon Comptroller Darren Morton, County Legislators Jewel Williams-Johnson and Majority Leader Tyrae Woodson-Samuels, Peekskill Mayor Vivian McKenzie, Town Supervisors Ellen Calves (Bedford) and Tony Gonçalves (Lewisboro), Town Board Members Mary Shah (Lewisboro), Gina Jackson and Joy Haber (Greenburgh), Stephanie McCaine and Andrés Castillo (Bedford) as well as former Mount Vernon Mayor Ernie Davis, former County Legislator Alfreda Williams and former NYS Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson.

Wagstaff was also endorsed by the New York Working Families Party! As progressive champions for social, racial, and economic justice in our state, they recognize the ongoing challenges in our criminal justice system and the need for reform. 

“I am grateful to the Working Families Party for endorsing our campaign for Westchester County District Attorney. The WFP has a long history of advocating for policies that advance and protect the civil rights of working New Yorkers and Americans, not just the wealthy, and I’m proud to support that shared mission by delivering a fairer, stronger, and more equitable justice system as Westchester DA. I thank WFP for supporting our vision as we strive to build an equitable landscape upon which generational change can be built,” he added.

Latimer Becomes Irritated With Voters Who Question Him At New Rochelle Black History Month Event

AJ Woodson
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Latimer Becomes Irritated With Voters Who Question Him At New Rochelle Black History Month Event

On Saturday, February 10th, I had the pleasure of being a vendor at the 12th Annual Black History Celebration at New Rochelle High School, commemorating Brown v. Board of Education and the 70th anniversary of school desegregation. Several elected officials came through to show their support. County Executive George Latimer, who is challenging Congressman Jamaal Bowman, was among them.

Latimer’s appearance to shake hands and kiss babies was met with some support and then some opposition. It started amicably with Latimer taking the opportunity to spread his message but quickly turned combative and the CE became irritated by questions from voters and decided to get into a verbal confrontation with me because of it.

Latimer was questioned by one woman about how the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) donated over $600,000 to George Latimer in the latest filings, over 40% of his fundraising total. A fact that has been heavily covered by City & State NY, The Intercept, and several other publications.

One New Rochelle voter stated, “But you are taking money from the devil.” Mr. Latimer responded, “Bowman is taking money from the devil too, he taking money from Hamas.”

When asked for proof to back up his statement, Latimer pulled out his phone to show her an article he couldn’t find, took her email, and promised to email the female voter the proof. When she asked that he didn’t forget to send the email, he replied to her, “You probably won’t read it or believe it anyway,” as he walked away.

During his interactions with some voters in attendance, Latimer decided it was a good idea to drag me into the conversation and pointed to me seated at the next table, telling me to ‘listen [to him] if I wanted to do more fair and balanced reporting.’ As I said, I was a vendor at the event selling my book and hadn’t said anything to the county executive at that point and would have just shook his hand and kept it moving, this was not the time or place for a political debate. While I was being civil, he decided to question the credibility of myself and Black Westchester. His irritation at being questioned by voters turned to an attack on the major Black media voice in the county at a Black History Month event.

Latimer was then asked about Black Westchester’s coverage of the urging of Republicans and Jewish GOP voters to change their party affiliation in an effort to tip the scales against Congressman Bowman and disenfranchise the Democratic voter in its primary. The GOP calls to vote for George Latimer, who received the endorsement of AIPAC, according to The Jewish Insider. This was not a smear campaign from Black Westchester, as he suggested; this has been covered in the NY Post, The Intercept, News 12, Lohud, CBS News, The Washington Examiner, and others.

Latimer claimed he rebuffed the claim he attended a MAGA fundraiser, claiming Black Westchester Damon K Jones was spreading misinformation and that I was continuing to further repeat the lie in support of Congressman Bowman.

I have been very clear that this is much bigger than Congressman Bowman’s re-election bid and even the CD-16 Congressional race. Republicans are encouraging their members to change their party affiliation to interfere with the Democratic Primary, the way they did in 2013 in their attempted takeover of the Westchester Independent Party. That ended up in a lawsuit where the judge ruled that 3700 Republicans be purged from the Independent Party rolls. A few thousand Republicans can tip the scale in a major way, taking power from the wishes of Democratic voters. Dems need to wake up because if the GOP is successful, do not think it will end there.

For the record, I have been repeatedly adamant that Republicans should have no influence in the Democratic Primary and have reported about the attempted GOP takeover of the Westchester Democratic Party, which we addressed on our Sunday, January 28th episode of People Before Politics Radio Show, Latimer admits he never listened to himself. This has been the main point I have been trying to bang home in editorials, on our radio show, and to George himself, once he chose to confront me. A fact he could not debate with me, but he chose to smear our name publicly instead.

Latimer decided to call Damon out on Facebook briefly until Damon questioned Latimer if he felt all Muslims were members of Hamas, which he refused to answer. Damon also questioned Latimer about hiring the union-busting public relations firm, Global Strategy Group (GSG). But despite having Damon’s cell phone number and a relationship with him, including having Damon on an advisory board on police and criminal justice reform, Latimer chose to call me out because he doesn’t have the heart to face Damon.

In an effort of fairness, I invited Latimer to appear on our show to discuss the issue with Damon and share his perspective on the matter. Latimer has appeared on PBP Radio several times in the past decade, starting when he was running against Astorino. Latimer admittedly denied the invitation. Instead, he chose to get into a shouting match with me and those who were questioning him, as if to suggest how dare they have to audacity to question him. He is a candidate and an elected official; if he cannot tolerate having the taxpayers who pay his salary question him, he may need to choose another career path. Maybe it is time to retire, George.

I have been very vocal that if Westchester Republicans do not believe Bowman deserves to be re-elected, why aren’t they spending all this money to challenge him in the general election in November with a candidate of their own as they try to turn the seat and keep control of the House of Representatives? Instead, they decided to invade the Democratic Primary. To sway the primary in the direction they want and as long as that benefits Latimer, he does not have a problem with it, as he defyingly expressed to local democratic voters who questioned him on why he was running at New Rochelle High School during an annual Black History Month event on Saturday, February 10th. If Westchester Democrats feel Latimer can do a better job, they should be free to vote for him in the Democratic Primary without Republican interference. I stand by that.

In November 2017, Latimer said President Donald Trump’s unpopularity played a role in his success in unseating Republican incumbent Rob Astorino. “I think it’s that people want to know that they have a government that responds to them and not just talks to them—talks down to them,” he told WCBS 880’s Peter Haskell.

Just seven years later, in 2024, receiving money from the Donald Trump-controlled Republican Party and having them enroll in an attempted party takeover of the Westchester Democratic Party is fine with him because it benefits him. In 2017, Latimer portrayed his opponent, Astorino, as a divisive backer of President Donald Trump whose values were out of touch with Westchester County, the home of Hillary Clinton. But in 2024, he will gladly accept all the money and support from the Trump-led GOP! He felt he could talk down to some voters who questioned him Saturday at NRHS.

Voters need to ask: What has changed for the once-proven progressive vote-getter? Backing and supporting Trump in 2017 was bad, but accepting more than half a million in one quarter from AIPAC and receiving the support of Trump’s party in 2024 is okay. As former late-night talk show host Arsenio Hall used to say nightly, “Things That Make You Go HMMMMM!”

Other questions that need to be asked since the GOP wants to turn the seat red and maintain control of the House are: why are they supporting Latimer instead of putting up one of their own candidates? What has Latimer promised them for their support? My mother also told me all money isn’t good money. Has Latimer sold us out? Has he sold his soul to the Trump-led party he was very outspoken against in 2017 in his effort to unseat Astorino? Why won’t he come on our show to face Damon, if he feels what Damon wrote was misinformation? He also talks about transparency. But refusing to appear to face Black Westchester if what we wrote isn’t true, speaking down to voters who question you, and then sulking off like a spoiled child who doesn’t get their way, isn’t exactly what I call transparency!

Can you truly be progressive if you align yourself with the Trump-led GOP? Can you truly be a progressive if 40% of your campaign finance comes from a MAGA GOP SuperPAC? Especially after many of the progressives in Westchester who supported Latimer urged him not to divide the party by challenging Bowman whom they support. After he practically ran out of the building, many who watched what unfolded asked what his real inspiration was in challenging Congressman Bowman. It was his response to voters and taxpayers who wanted answers and his verbal attack on Black Westchester that left many in attendance scratching their heads, wondering if this was the real George Latimer?

IT’S TIME FOR SOME REAL TALK!!! Stay tuned for a special edition of the Black Westchester Power Hour this week to address this further!

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