#employer defense lawyer 100

[californiabusinesslawyerus]

California Business Lawyer & Corporate Lawyer

Website Url:

Complete Address:

355 South Grand Ave., Suite 2450, Los Angeles, California 90071 USA

Phone:

(213) 277-7400

Description

Introduction

Welcome to our law firm, where we specialize in providing top-notch employer defense legal services. Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to protecting your business interests.

Our Expertise in Employer Defense

At our firm, we pride ourselves on being the go-to employer defense attorneys in California. Our team has extensive experience in defending employers in a wide range of legal matters. Whether you are facing allegations of wrongful termination, discrimination, or wage and hour disputes, we have the knowledge and expertise to protect your rights. Our employer defense lawyers are well-versed in both state and federal employment laws, ensuring that you receive comprehensive legal representation.

Employer Defense Services in Los Angeles

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, our firm is well-equipped to handle employer defense cases throughout the region. Our employer defense attorneys in Los Angeles have a deep understanding of the local legal landscape and are committed to providing personalized legal solutions tailored to your business needs. We represent employers of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations, and our goal is to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively.

Comprehensive Employment Law Services for Employers

Our firm offers a full range of employment law services for employers. We understand that navigating employment laws can be complex, and our employment law specialists are here to guide you every step of the way. Our services include:

Drafting and reviewing employment contracts

Advising on compliance with state and federal employment laws

Conducting workplace investigations

Representing employers in administrative hearings and court proceedings

We are dedicated to helping employers create a positive and compliant workplace environment.

Corporate Attorneys and Business Lawyers in Los Angeles

In addition to our expertise in employer defense, our firm also provides comprehensive corporate legal services. Our corporate attorneys and business lawyers in Los Angeles are skilled in handling a variety of business-related legal matters. From business formation and mergers to contract negotiations and corporate litigation, we offer strategic legal advice to help your business thrive. Our business attorneys in Los Angeles are committed to delivering results that align with your business objectives.

Business Attorney Services in San Diego

Our reach extends beyond Los Angeles to San Diego, where we offer expert business attorney services. Our San Diego business lawyers are well-versed in the unique legal challenges faced by businesses in the region. We provide legal support for:

Business formation and incorporation

Contract drafting and review

Dispute resolution and litigation

Compliance with local, state, and federal regulations

Whether you are a small business owner or part of a larger corporation, our San Diego business attorneys are here to support your legal needs.

Small Business Legal Support

We understand that small businesses have unique legal needs, and our small business lawyers in San Diego are dedicated to providing tailored legal solutions. We offer a range of services specifically designed for small businesses, including:

Employment law compliance

Contract negotiations

Intellectual property protection

Dispute resolution

Our goal is to help small businesses navigate legal challenges and achieve long-term success.

Why Choose Our Firm?

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial for the success of your business. Here are a few reasons why our firm stands out:

Experience: Our attorneys have decades of combined experience in employer defense and business law.

Expertise: We are specialists in employment law and have a deep understanding of the legal landscape in California.

Personalized Service: We provide customized legal solutions tailored to the specific needs of your business.

Results-Driven: Our focus is on achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Comprehensive Support: From employer defense to corporate law, we offer a full spectrum of legal services.

Our Commitment to Clients

At our firm, client satisfaction is our top priority. We are committed to providing exceptional legal services and building long-term relationships with our clients. Our attorneys take the time to understand your business and provide strategic legal advice that aligns with your goals. We are here to support you through every legal challenge and help your business succeed.

Contact Us

If you are in need of an employer defense attorney or business lawyer in California, look no further. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you. Our team is ready to provide the legal support you need to protect your business interests.

Conclusion

Our firm is dedicated to providing expert legal representation for employers and businesses in California. With our extensive experience and specialized knowledge, we are your trusted partner in navigating complex legal challenges. Let us help you achieve your business goals and protect your interests with confidence.

[flfverse]

contracts, pt 2: bonding

so, i already laid out the gist of how contracts in general work. they can be pretty basic and informal and don't require any special processes unless you decide you want them to.

for temporary contracts, anyway. if you're going to do something permanent, there are rules. of course, you don't necessarily have to follow them, you can make a very casual permanent contract if you want to, but it won't be considered a bonding under the law that way.

additionally, while you can create a temporary contract before you turn 18, minors are not allowed to permanently bond with anyone regardless of whether they have parental consent. it’s just not allowed.

an actual permanent/bonding contract is a bit more like an actual contract that gets filed with the court. it's best practice to get a lawyer to help you. this time around, things like limits and preferences are required, though there's no rule about how detailed you have to get. pretty much everyone will go into excruciating detail, though, both because that's called being a good partner, and just in case things go sideways and you need to go to court.

bonding contracts are also harder to get out of. since bonding replaced marriage, it’s pretty much the same as a divorce. it can be straightforward, if all partners agree to break the bond, but it can also be long, complicated, and messy.

but other than that, what’s the difference when you’re bonded vs just in a long-term contract?

bonded partners have all the same rights/benefits of marriage, including the right to visit a partner in the hospital and make medical decisions, joint adoption, employment/gov/tax benefits, etc

a bonding is 100% exclusive to the signing parties by default, which is the opposite of temporary contracts, but exceptions can easily be written in

bonded partners cannot be kept separate for longer than a month unless there is an exception to the exclusivity clause and written consent is obtained for all parties

^^ this includes things like hero missions, business trips, wars, and prison

as outlined in CTL, there is a clause in the self-defense law where a partner can claim self-defense for attacking a threat to their bonded, even if they were not threatened

in general, a bonding is seen as more legitimate/respectable, especially an exclusive one. essentially the same attitude for people who live together forever but never marry/have an open marriage vs people in a “traditional” marriage

note, however, that there is discrimination against exclusive sub/sub or dom/dom couples, and in some prefectures/other countries exclusive dom/dom bonds can legally be rejected or are straight-up illegal

^^ i’m sure i’ve discussed that in passing but this is because of ideas about “dominant instincts” and how two dominants can’t safely be in a relationship with just each other

so. bonding is good. other than a contract, how do you make it official?

when marriage was phased out, so were weddings for the most part, but it’s not uncommon to write vows and include them in your personal copy of your contract (so you can be as sappy and hyperbolic as you want without it being legally binding). some very traditional types will have a small ceremony, but most people just host a bonding party to celebrate. honeymoons are still a thing, though, for people who want to take them.

that’s about it, i think? next up we talk about contract violations!

[cutlerlawbostonma]

Business Name: Cutler Law Boston

Street Address: 100 State Street

City: Boston

State: Massachusetts (MA)

Zip Code: 02109

Country: USA

Business Phone Number: (617) 542-5000

Business Email Address: Admin@cutlerlawboston.com

Website: https://cutlerlawboston.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080011984095

Description: Choosing the right attorney can be a difficult and daunting task. You need someone who is aggressive and professional, yet caring and attentive to you, the client. Cutler Law Boston is a law firm that strives to offer the right balance of these qualities, a firm you can trust to serve you with a wide range of legal experience. We will do our very best to protect your rights and represent you to the best of our abilities, all while providing you with a nuanced atmosphere of interaction. We give you the personal attention and the peace of mind you need in order to achieve a fair and optimal resolution of your legal matters.

Google My Business CID URL: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=1632994824291658498

Business Hours: Sunday Closed Monday 9:00am-5:00pm Tuesday 9:00am-5:00pm Wednesday 9:00am-5:00pm Thursday 9:00am-5:00pm Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Saturday Closed

Services: legal, criminal defense, drug criminal defense, employment law, contract law, truck accident lawyer, commercial trucking attorney, discrimination law, traffic citation defense, criminal traffic citation defense

Keywords: legal, criminal defense, drug criminal defense, employment law, contract law, truck accident lawyer, commercial trucking attorney, discrimination law

Payment Methods: Cash, Check, Debit

Business/Company Establishment Year: 1985

Number of Employees: 5

Owner Name, Email, and Contact Number: Corey Cutler, admin@cutler-law.com, (617) 542-5000

Location:

Service Areas:

[cutler-law]

Business Name: Cutler & Associates

Street Address: 100 State Street

City: Boston

State: Massachusetts (MA)

Zip Code: 02109

Country: USA

Business Phone Number: (617) 542-5000

Business Email Address: Admin@cutler-law.com

Website: https://cutler-law.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080011984095

Description: Choosing the right attorney can be a difficult and daunting task. You need someone who is aggressive and professional, yet caring and attentive to you, the client. Cutler & Associates is a law firm that strives to offer the right balance of these qualities, a firm you can trust to serve you with a wide range of legal experience. We will do our very best to protect your rights and represent you to the best of our abilities, all while providing you with a nuanced atmosphere of interaction. We give you the personal attention and the peace of mind you need in order to achieve a fair and optimal resolution of your legal matters.

Google My Business CID URL: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=1632994824291658498

Business Hours: Sunday Closed Monday 9:00am-5:00pm Tuesday 9:00am-5:00pm Wednesday 9:00am-5:00pm Thursday 9:00am-5:00pm Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Saturday Closed

Services: legal, criminal defense, drug criminal defense, employment law, contract law, truck accident lawyer, commercial trucking attorney, discrimination law

Keywords: legal, criminal defense, drug criminal defense, employment law, contract law, truck accident lawyer, commercial trucking attorney, discrimination law

Payment Methods: Cash, Check, Debit

Business/Company Establishment Year: 1985

Number of Employees: 5

Owner Name, Email, and Contact Number: Corey Cutler admin@cutler-law.com (617) 542-5000

Location:

Service Areas:

[jodex99]

Navigating the Legal Waters: Finding the Best DUI Lawyer in London

Getting charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in London can be a daunting experience. Not only are there potential legal consequences, but the emotional and financial toll can also be significant. In such challenging times, having the right legal representation becomes crucial. This blog post aims to guide you through the process of finding the best DUI lawyer in London to handle your case effectively.

Understanding DUI Laws in London

Before diving into the search for a DUI lawyer, it's essential to have a basic understanding of DUI laws in London. In the UK, the legal alcohol limit for drivers is 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 mililitres of blood. However, the actual limit can vary depending on factors such as age, experience, and the type of vehicle being driven.

A DUI charge can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment in some cases. Additionally, having a DUI conviction on your record can have long-term consequences, affecting your employment opportunities and insurance premiums.

Why You Need a DUI Lawyer

Facing a DUI charge alone can be overwhelming and intimidating. A skilled DUI lawyer can provide invaluable assistance throughout the legal process. Here are some reasons why hiring a DUI lawyer is essential:

Legal Expertise: DUI laws are complex and constantly evolving. A knowledgeable DUI lawyer stays updated with the latest legal developments and can use this knowledge to build a strong defense strategy for your case.

Case Assessment: A DUI lawyer will assess the details of your case, including the circumstances of your arrest, the accuracy of the breathalyzer or blood test results, and any mitigating factors. This thorough evaluation helps in determining the best course of action.

Negotiation Skills: In many cases, a DUI lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure a plea deal that minimizes the impact on your record and penalties.

Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, having a skilled DUI lawyer by your side provides you with competent representation in court. Your lawyer will present arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge evidence to strengthen your defense.

Finding the Best DUI Lawyer in London

Now that you understand the importance of hiring a DUI lawyer, the next step is finding the best one for your needs. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

Experience: Look for a DUI lawyer with extensive experience handling DUI cases in London. An experienced lawyer is familiar with local laws, procedures, and court systems, giving you an advantage in your case.

Reputation: Research the lawyer's reputation by reading reviews, testimonials, and case outcomes. A reputable DUI lawyer will have a track record of successful outcomes and satisfied clients.

Credentials: Verify the lawyer's credentials, including their education, certifications, and memberships in professional associations related to DUI defense.

Communication: Choose a lawyer who communicates effectively and keeps you informed throughout the legal process. Clear and transparent communication ensures that you understand your rights, options, and the progress of your case.

Consultation: Schedule a consultation with potential DUI lawyers to discuss your case in detail. Use this opportunity to ask questions, assess their expertise, and gauge their level of commitment to your case.

Conclusion

Facing a DUI charge in London is a serious matter that requires skilled legal representation. By understanding DUI laws, recognizing the importance of hiring a DUI lawyer, and following the tips provided, you can navigate the legal process more effectively and work towards a favorable outcome for your case. Remember, the key to success lies in choosing the best DUI lawyer who will advocate for your rights and protect your interests every step of the way.

[lboogie1906]

Judge Alice Athenia Lytle (March 2, 1939 - December 21, 2018) medical technician, lawyer, state executive, and judge was born in Newark, New Jersey. Her father Lacey Lytle worked as a janitor in a building where she lived. He and her mother Margaret moved the family to Harlem. She earned a BA in Physiology and Public Health from Hunter College. She worked in the department of pediatric cardiology at the UCSF Medical Center.

She decided to become a civil rights attorney. She graduated from the Hastings College of the Law, served as president of the Black Law Students Association, and worked with the Alameda County Public Defender’s office and the Legal Defense Fund of the NAACP.

After teaching criminal law at the New College of Law, she served as Chief Deputy of Legal Affairs in the office of California Governor Edmund G. “Jerry” Brown, Jr. He appointed her head of the Fair Employment and Housing Division of the Department of Industrial Relations. She rose to a prestigious cabinet post as Secretary of the State and Consumers Services Agency, the first African American to hold this position.

She was appointed to the Sacramento Municipal Court, the first female African American on that bench. She and Judge Rudolph R. Loncke established La Casita, a waiting room for children whose parents or family members were before the court in Sacramento. She headed the Municipal Court (1988-89).

She was the presiding Judge of the Sacramento Superior Court’s Juvenile Court. She established the Healthy Teen Mothers Project, served as a mentor to pregnant teens for a program called the Birthing Project, and created the SacraMentor Program to help juveniles in trouble with the law. She was appointed to the Sacramento County Superior Court, the first female African American Superior Court judge in California. She retired in 2002. She was appointed to the Attorney General’s Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board.

She received the Sacramento Women Lawyers’ Frances Newell Carr Award, the California Women Lawyers’ Rose Bird Memorial Award, and an award from the Sacramento chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[danielchammasattorney]

Defending Against Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) Claims

California's PAGA lets employees sue their employers for labor code violations on behalf of the state, other employees, or themselves. Successful PAGA claims cost the affected employers 100 dollars per affected employee in civil penalties per pay period for the initial violation and 200 dollars per employee in subsequent violations. Affected employers also have to pay attorneys' fees and court costs.

Three types of labor violations can lead to a PAGA claim. One is a violation of the California Labor Code covered by the PAGA statute. Another is a violation of California's health and safety regulations, and the third is any other violation of California's labor laws. An aggrieved employee who has suffered harm due to an employer violating a California labor code provision covered by the PAGA statute can make a PAGA claim. Employers can take some steps to protect themselves from PAGA claims.

A defensive strategy employers use to mitigate PAGA claims involves implementing arbitration agreements. These agreements, containing class action and PAGA waivers, mandate that employees pursue any claim against the employer in their capacity. Employees can only proceed with a PAGA claim if the arbitration decision is in their favor. Employers should ensure that their arbitration agreements are updated with current law.

Keeping up-to-date digital records is another good strategy for defense in case of PAGA claims. Employers should work with employment lawyers to ensure their work records contain relevant information when involved in PAGA cases. A good employee handbook with well-stated policies and procedures that align with state regulations will also protect employers from PAGA claims.

Employers can reduce the risk of getting involved in PAGA action by ensuring that their practices, workers' classification, wages, and labor practices align with the law. They can conduct regular internal audits to identify and ratify lapses before they get dragged to court.

[chriswhitelawyer]

Lynchburg Bond Hearing Attorney

Lynchburg Bond Hearing Attorney

If you have been arrested, you should call me, I am a Lynchburg Bond Hearing Attorney. Citizens of the community can be arrested for a wide range of reason. If you have been arrested you should call me for a free consultation (434) 660-9701.

Factors At A Bond Hearing:

There are many factors that go into representing someone for a bond hearing. Often, the court will consider:

The Place of Birth.

The ties to the community, including the length of time he or she has lived at the current and former addresses, current contact information, family relationships, immigration status (if applicable), employment record and history, date of birth, and social security number.

The physical and mental health, educational and armed services records.

The immediate medical needs, including chemical dependency treatment.

The past criminal record, if any, including adult criminal convictions and juvenile adjudications and prior record of court appearances or failure to appear in court, counsel should also determine whether the accused has any pending charges, whether they are on probation or parole and past or present performance under supervision.

Current immigration status and immigration history.

The ability of the client to meet any financial conditions of release.

The names of individuals or other sources that counsel can contact to verify the client’s provided information (counsel should consult with the client before contacting these individuals).

Other such information necessary to determine potential exposure under the sentencing guidelines.

Any necessary information waivers or releases that will assist the client’s defense.

Call me:

A Lynchburg Bond Hearing Attorney can represent you at Bond Hearings.Chris White Lawyer, LLC. is a Lynchburg, Virginia Law Firm available for free consultations in person, via Facetime, Skype, Zoom or phone (434) 660-9701. Please also check out my practice areas in Criminal Defense Attorney and Car Accident Lawyer. At my Law Firm we focus on the best result for the client. To stay connected we have a Youtube Channel, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Tumblr, Blogger, Reddit, Yelp, Avvo and Justia. Thank you for your time and consideration.Chris White lawyer, LLCCellphone: (434) 660-9701Available with appointment (434) 660-9701:700 12th St, Lynchburg, VA 24504https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d12677.076621301894!2d-79.16117502531398!3d37.407112612049346!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x89b2d97e61766259%3A0x212c4f1ab98fa781!2sChris%20White%20Lawyer%2C%20LLC!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1693350825142!5m2!1sen!2susAvailable with appointment (434) 660-9701:100 Tradewynd Dr. Lynchburg, VA 24502https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d511508.3931927539!2d-79.2374534747097!3d37.34834010780607!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x9749d9ff5cd548d8!2sThe%20Law%20Offices%20Of%20Christopher%20G.%20White%2C%20P.A.!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1605724356768!5m2!1sen!2sus

[leroylawpa]

DUI Laws in West Palm Beach

Quick Tips: 

Never drive after drinking 

Know the legal BAC limit 

Penalties escalate with each offense 

Your license can be suspended 

Legal representation is crucial 

For an in-depth look into DUI laws, read this Wikipedia page. 

Understanding Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Limits 

Florida's DUI laws are stringent. The legal BAC limit is 0.08%. You need to know that exceeding this can get you in serious trouble. 

BAC Level: Anything above 0.08% can result in arrest. 

Zero Tolerance: For drivers under 21, any measurable BAC can lead to penalties. 

Penalties for First, Second, and Third Offenses 

If you're caught, the penalties vary depending on prior offenses. Penalties include fines, jail time, and mandatory DUI school. 

First Offense: Expect a fine from $500 to $1,000. 

Third Offense: Fines go up, and imprisonment is likely. 

Driver's License Suspension Rules 

Your license can be immediately suspended if you fail or refuse a breath test. It's essential to act fast to avoid long-term suspension. 

First Offense: 180 days to 1-year suspension. 

Subsequent Offenses: Longer suspension and potential permanent revocation. 

DUI Checkpoints and Your Rights 

Always remember you have rights during a DUI checkpoint. You're not obligated to answer all questions. 

Silent Right: You can remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. 

Search Rights: Police need probable cause to search your vehicle. 

Legal Defenses in DUI Cases 

Several legal defenses can be utilized. It's crucial to consult a lawyer familiar with West Palm Beach DUI laws. 

Faulty Tests: Breathalyzers are not 100% reliable. 

Illegal Stop: You can question the legality of the traffic stop. 

Consequences of Refusing a Breath Test 

Refusal comes with its own set of penalties, including immediate license suspension. 

First Refusal: One-year license suspension. 

Second Refusal: 18-month suspension and misdemeanor charges. 

DUI Arrests: The Court Process 

From arraignment to verdict, DUI cases can be complex and stressful. A skilled attorney can guide you through it. 

Initial Hearing: You'll be informed of the charges. 

Trial: May include witness testimony and evidence presentation. 

Hypothetical Case 

John, a 28-year-old, attends a party and has a few drinks. He feels alright but gets pulled over at a DUI checkpoint. With a BAC of 0.09%, he is arrested. John should consult an attorney immediately for proper legal defenses, which could include questioning the accuracy of the breathalyzer used. 

Key Takeaways 

Know the BAC limit 

Penalties get worse with repeated offenses 

Legal advice is crucial 

You have rights at DUI checkpoints 

How LeRoy Law Can Help 

At LeRoy Law, we understand your challenges after a DUI arrest. We specialize in DUI defense in West Palm Beach and are committed to helping you every step of the way. For experienced and compassionate legal representation, contact LeRoy Law. 

FAQ 

Q1: Can I refuse a field sobriety test?  Yes, but refusal might be used against you in court. 

Q2: Does a DUI affect employment?  It can make job hunting more challenging. 

Q3: What is a 'hardship license'?  It allows driving for specific needs like work. 

Q4: Can I get my records sealed?  Only under particular conditions. 

Q5: Do out-of-state DUIs count in Florida?  Yes, they can influence your case and penalties. 

Disclaimer: LeRoy Law tries to ensure the accuracy of this article. However, Florida Statutes change, case law changes, and as such, errors may occur. LeRoy Law assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions in this article. LeRoy Law encourages you to utilize our links to relevant Florida Statutes. Contact my office at [561.290.2730] if you have any questions or require legal assistance. 

[localizee]

We give you the personal attention and the peace of mind you need in order to achieve a fair and optimal resolution of your legal matters.

[thegreatestofheck]

The Girl with No Heartbeat Pt.3 ⊰JJ Maybank⊱

Part One! Part Two!

(gif not mine! all credit to dearemma!)

Word Count - 5554 Warnings - Swearing Synopsis - Mera joins John B at the Cameron residence, underwhelmed by their attitude toward her new friends. She offers an olive branch to someone, who doesn’t take it.  A/N - Here is part 3! Thank you all for the love and support on both the series and the insert series! I really appreciate all of you. Also, thank you for 100 followers!

The net tangled around her. Mera tried to pull it off of her, tried to tear the ropes with her teeth like she was used to, but these ropes wouldn’t break. She wasn’t underwater, but on land, standing in an empty field. The only one there was her. The only company she had was the suffocation of the net. She had to get it off. If she didn’t get the net off, she knew she was going to die. If that was how it worked below the surface, that’s how it must work here. Free yourself, Ira’s voice hissed in her ear. Only you can get yourself out. “My friends will come,” Mera told the voice. “They will come and save me.” She heard their laughter first. A smile spread across Mera’s face. She tried to turn toward the sound of their voices, but she couldn’t move. When she opened her mouth to call out to them, nothing came out. Panic started to settle into Mera’s chest as her breathing began to speed up. Her friends walked across the field and she finally caught sight of them. A smile spread across her face. Knowing she couldn’t call out to them, she pulled and pulled and pulled against the rope. With every ounce of effort she put into the rope, she felt the strength leave her body. To her horror, Mera watched as her friends walked right past her, not a hundred yards away. They laughed and joked and shoved each other, but they did not see her. Her cries were silent, her pleas unheard. “Please see me,” she begged, her mouth making no sounds. “Please help me.” They walked farther and farther until they were no longer in sight. Eventually, Mera couldn’t even hear their voices anymore. She tried to pull herself from the net, but her energy was draining quickly. There came a time when even the weight of the net was too much for her. It pushed her down to her knees first, tears brimming on the edges of her eyes. “Come back.” Her voice was like gravel as the rope net pushed her farther and farther to the ground. “Don’t leave me.” Once her face pressed into the dirt, she let out a quiet sob, finally letting herself realize that they weren’t coming back for her. “Mera,” a voice called to her. “Hey, Mera.” “JJ?” She tried to lift her eyes, to find where his voice was coming from. “Help me. Please don’t leave me.” “Wake up, Mera,” he said. She felt her shoulder shake. “I’m right here, just wake up.” Mera squeezed her eyes shut, shaking her head as the rope started to shove her deeper into the dirt, the earth swallowing her. “Help me,” she whimpered, barely opening her mouth as dirt started to bury her. “C’mon, Mera,” JJ’s voice said. “Wake up.” The dirt covered her completely, pouring into her mouth, her nose, her ears. She could feel it tear down her throat, ripping through her stomach. She let out a quiet cry. There was no more light, just the darkness and the dirt and the rope digging into her skin. “Mera, you have to breathe.” 

Mera shook her head. She couldn’t. She couldn’t breathe. You cannot rely on your new friends. Ira said, voice booming and ear-shattering. Mera moved to cover her ears with her hands. You left us for them and look where you are now. “Mera!” Her eyes snapped open suddenly, sucking in deep gasps. A low light flitted in through the window, illuminating the floor bed around her. Trying to steady her breathing, Mera turned to find JJ looking down at her, a hand on her shoulder. “You good?” He asked, sitting back as she pushed herself upward. Mera nodded slowly, her mouth dry. “Just a nightmare.” She ran her hands through her hair and tried to smile. “I haven’t had one of those in a long time.” “You got me good there,” JJ said, leaning his head against the headboard. “You stopped breathing for a bit.” “I didn’t mean to scare you,” she said, trying to get her breathing to steady. “Nah,” JJ closed his eyes and shook his head. “I get ‘em too. What did you dream about?” Mera glanced up at him before looking back at her hands. She wasn’t sure if she should tell him that she was dreaming about him and his friends walking away when she needed them, after all they had done to help her. She didn’t want to sound ungrateful. “I was tied up in a net,” she said, breathing slowly. “I couldn’t get out. I tried to, but I got weaker and weaker until I was in the ground, choking on dirt. I couldn’t breathe.” JJ nodded his head, lips twitching. “The suffocating ones are always scary,” he said. Mera looked up at him again. She tried to remind herself that even if she saw him walking away in the dream, he was the one who had pulled her out of it. Whatever happened in the dream was a lie. “Rise and shine!” John B burst through the door with a smile on his face. When he saw them both sitting up, his smile faltered. “You’re awake?” JJ cocked an eyebrow as he turned to look at John B. “Yes,” Mera said, sliding out of bed. “I will change, John B.” “I can make something to eat,” JJ said, jumping up and pushing past his friend in the doorway. “What was that about?” John B asked Mera as she dug through the bag of clothes for a shirt befitting meeting someone who would give her employment. “I had a nightmare,” Mera said. She saw no point in keeping secrets, especially from John B. He was her ‘cousin’ after all and she was living under his roof. “JJ was just trying to help.” John B nodded his head slowly. “I wanna talk about Ward Cameron real quick,” John B said, picking something off of the nightstand and fiddling with it. “The man we are going to talk to?” Mera asked as she pulled off the tank top she was wearing. John B’s eyes widened and he looked back down, blushing. “I, uh, yeah.” He stammered for a bit, trying not to look up at her. Mera pulled on something that looked at least slightly fancy, not really noticing John B’s discomfort. “He’s, uh, rich guy numero uno, but he’s been pretty good to me since I started working there.” “He sounds respectable,” Mera said, untying the elastic on the sweats she was wearing. John B’s cheeks reddened even further and he turned around. “I really shouldn’t be here.” 

“I thought you needed to talk about Ward Cameron?” “Yeah, maybe when you have some clothes on.” Mera stopped in the middle of pulling the jeans back onto her legs. She cringed and finished pulling them on. “I’m sorry, John B. Privacy was not a luxury on my ship. I should have thought about it first,” Mera said. “No problem,” he said, chuckling nervously and waving a hand through the air. “Just don’t go around taking your clothes off in front of other people, yeah?” Mera smiled at the back of his head. “Yeah.” “You decent?” “Yes.” John B turned around. “Is this appropriate to meet Ward Cameron in?” John B nodded his head, trying not to stare for too long. “Now, we need to come up with a solid lie that we never go back on, alright?” John B walked across the room and threw an arm around Mera’s shoulders. “For example, where does your mom live?” “I am unfamiliar with the current geography of the world,” Mera said as he led her out of his bedroom. “So, let’s say California. It’s on the other side of the continent,” John B said, to which Mera nodded. “Next question. What does your mother do for a living? We have to think of something that would keep her from coming with you, so she always has to be busy.” Mera’s shoulders sagged. There was so little she knew about this world, how would she manage to ever get anything done? Even if she worked for Ward Cameron, there was no way she would know how to handle the technology the current world was surrounded by. “What about a lawyer?” JJ offered as they walked into the dining room. When Mera looked up at him, he was spreading what looked like thick, brown butter across a piece of bread. “Lawyers are busy.” “Good!” John B snapped his fingers. “Your mom is a defense attorney with cases stacked taller than her head so she couldn’t make the trip down.” Mera nodded her head. The words from her dream flitted back into her mind. Only you can free yourself. There was no way Mera would have ever survived if it wasn’t for these people, her friends. She would have died on the beach yesterday morning. Mera was slowly starting to realize that humans weren’t solitary creatures for a reason. They needed each other and she needed her friends, it was the only way she was going to get out of the net. “Defense attorney,” she said, her mood rising. “California.” “She needs a name,” JJ said, setting one piece of buttered bread down on a plate. “What about Amarylis, after my real mother?” Mera offered. “That could work,” JJ said, pointing the knife at John B. “My dad always says the best way to lie is to mostly tell the truth.” “There is very little truth going on here,” Mera said. JJ shrugged. “Amarylis…” John B mused, dropping his arm from around Mera’s shoulders and walking over to the table. “Cael,” Mera said, eyes fixed on the floor. “Her name will be Amarylis Cael.” JJ and John B glanced at each other. “That’s fine by me,” John B said, hopping onto the table. “And that means that your name will be Mera Cael.” Mera smiled. “I can live with that.” “Perfect!” John B clapped his hands together “If Ward asks you any other questions just remember what you said to him and tell us later, so we don’t have any cracks in our lie.” Mera nodded as JJ turned around, balancing three plates of bread on his arm. “Peanut butter toast,” he said, offering a plate to Mera. “My specialty.” “Thank you,” she said, taking the plate and sliding into a chair. Taking a bite of the toast, Mera was unsure at first what to think. The peanut butter was sticky and thick, making her teeth feel funny. But it was good. And the toast was just bread, but warm. “This is good,” she said, covering her mouth as she tried to finish chewing. JJ smiled, chewing on his own piece. “At least someone appreciates my cooking,” he said pointedly to John B. “It’s toast, JJ. That’s not cooking.” Mera smiled again and continued to eat. There was a moment of silence between the three of them. “How did you guys sleep last night?” John B asked, hiding a smirk by taking a large bite of his toast. JJ kicked John B under the table and Mera let out a laugh. John B kicked JJ back and soon enough there was an entire foot war underneath the dining table. “I believe that it is time for us to go,” Mera said, rising with her empty plate. “You gotta brush your teeth first, Mera,” John B said. “My...teeth?” “Yup.” John B stood, shoving his plate toward JJ. “I’ve got an extra toothbrush you can use.” It was a strange situation for both of them. Mera had never brushed her teeth using a toothbrush before. Sure, they had things to keep her teeth clean and from falling out, but a toothbrush was completely foreign to her. It was strange for John B to be teaching a girl his age how exactly to use a toothbrush. By the time they came out of the bathroom, both of them were relatively uncomfortable. Mera’s mouth felt minty and strange as she shifted her jaw and ran her tongue over her teeth. “We’re going to head out, JJ,” John B said, throwing up a hand to wave. “See ya,” JJ said, not looking up at them as John B and Mera headed for the door. “Thank you for breakfast, JJ,” Mera said before she walked out. He turned to her with a smile, but she could see that it was forced. “Anytime.” The sun shined down on her once she stepped outside. Mera took a moment to breathe in the light, the smell of the water. John B waited silently as she soaked it all in. She was able to step away after a few moments, following after John B again. When she looked back at the house, she saw JJ turning away from the window. “You sit up front on that side,” John B said. Mera nodded and walked around the van. It was strange to her; made of orange metal, with small wheels made out of something that wasn’t wood. There were no horses to pull it along, no animal at all. “It’s got an engine,” John B said, as if reading her mind or maybe just her facial expression. “It’s in the front and helps it go forward. I can explain more on the way.” Mera tried not to feel sick as the van sputtered when John B turned the key. The drive to Ward Cameron’s wasn’t as horrible as Mera thought it would be. With John B explaining how exactly a car worked, she realized that the feeling in her stomach was similar to the one she felt after months on the sea. She would just have to get used to it again. “There is so much in this world I don’t understand,” Mera said, the wind blowing her hair around. “What if Ward Cameron asks me to do something I don’t know how to do?” “I’ll help you,” John B said. “We’ll figure it out.” His vague optimism wasn’t really helping the queasiness of Mera’s stomach feel any better. Still, she appreciated his effort. When they pulled up to the house where John B worked, Mera immediately remembered what JJ had said about the kooks, the filthy rich. The word seemed fitting. The Cameron house was large and white, brooding over the small people who worked outside it. People owned houses like these while there were others on the street who had no roof over their heads. The thought rotted in Mera’s stomach. “This way, Mera,” John B called from the other side of the van. She turned and followed after him, taking her eyes away from the large building. John B led her to the docks, toward what Mera assumed was a modern age ship. It was small and ugly, the sunlight glaring off of the white surface. She grimaced at the sight of it. If her mother saw what ships looked like now, she would roll in her grave. “Mr. Cameron?” John B called, cupping his hands around his mouth. In a few seconds, a man popped his head out of the presumed cabin, a smile on his face. His hair was short, a peppered beard on his face. He looked far too kind to be the captain of any ship. Ward Cameron walked over to the side of the boat, a smile on his face. Mera suddenly remembered what she was doing here and forced herself to smile despite her disgust. “John B!” Ward Cameron said. “You’re here early.” “Yes, Sir,” John B said and put a hand on the upper part of Mera’s back. “I wanted to introduce you to my cousin, Mera. She’s staying with me and my Uncle T.” Ward Cameron leaned down and offered his hand for her to shake. This form of greeting was much more common now than it ever had been before. “Ward Cameron,” he said. “Wonderful to meet you.” “Mera Cael,” Mera said, her smile growing hearing the sound of her father’s name come from her own lips. “So, you’re staying with John B?” Mera nodded. “Yes, Sir.” 

“Why don’t you meet my kids, they’re just inside the boat. Come on,” Ward waved for them to step onto the boat. “Rafe won’t say anything,” John B assured Mera when she glanced back at him. He hopped onto the boat and then helped her climb inside after him. Even just standing on the boat felt like sacrilege. If Mera’s mother saw her now…. “This is my son, Rafe,” Ward Cameron said. Rafe turned around and Mera was satisfied to see a bruise running over his nose. “We’ve met before,” Rafe said, clenching his jaw. Mera didn’t let her smile waver. She kept her gaze steady, watching his eyes shift under hers. “Why didn’t you say anything, Rafe?” Ward Cameron asked, clapping his son on the back. “It was a brief meeting, Mr. Cameron,” Mera said, tilting her head to the side. “Uneventful. He probably forgot it happened as soon as I walked away.” “Please, call me Ward,” he said as he moved farther into the cabin. “Sarah, Wheezie! There’s someone I want you to meet.” Rafe tightened his fists once his dad’s back was turned, but Mera simply raised an eyebrow. She felt John B tense next to her, prepared for whatever was to come. But Mera knew boys like Rafe. They talked big and acted big, but beat them once and they generally never come for you again. Generally. A series of footsteps could be heard coming from down below. Ward walked up to Rafe again, a wide smile on his face. Two girls emerged from below deck. There was an older girl, who looked an awful lot like a sister Mera once had beneath the water, and a younger girl wearing what looked like glasses. “This is Sarah and Wheezie,” Ward said. Mera finally broke eye contact with Rafe to interact with the girls. “I’m Mera Cael,” she said, shaking both of their hands. “How long did you say you were staying here for?” Ward asked. Mera breathed in a deep breath and then let it out. Lie by telling the truth. “I’m not sure. We never really had a set date for my return home,” Mera said, glancing over at John B, who gave her a tiny nod. “Well, it’s wonderful to have you here, Mera,” Ward said. “Sarah, Wheezie, Rafe, why don’t you take Mera inside and show her around for a bit while John B here gets started on his work?” John B opened his mouth to protest, but Mera spoke first. “That sounds great,” she said. John B looked at her but she nodded her head. “It’ll be fine.” “JJ told me not to leave you alone,” John B muttered to her as the Cameron family started to shuffle around. “Have you ever listened to him before?” She asked, raising a brow. John B sighed, hands on his hips. “ I’ll be fine, John B.” “If you get your work done ahead of schedule, I’ll let you go early,” Ward said, his smile ever present. John B nodded his head, looking back at Mera one last time before following Ward back out onto the deck. “So, Mera,” Rafe said, walking toward her. “Where are you from?” “California,” she said. “You’re pretty pale for living in California.” “God, Rafe, don’t be such a freak,” Sarah said, pushing past her older brother to stand in front of Mera. “Forgive him, he’s been diagnosed with chronic jackass. I can lead the tour.” 

“That would be wonderful.” Sarah linked her arm with Mera’s and led her out. Mera sent a look back at Rafe, who glared at her, hands shoved into his pockets. Sarah helped Mera off of the boat and didn’t wait for either Rafe or Wheezie before heading off toward the house. Mera spent half of the time wondering why it looked so familiar to her. Sarah showed her almost every room in the house, including all the rooms. Rafe tried to keep his door shut, but Sarah shoved it open. “What are you hiding in here, Rafe?” Sarah asked with a mischievous grin as she stepped inside. “Sarah, get out of my room,” Rafe growled. It felt wrong to invade his personal space, rude as he was. Mera stood outside with Wheezie while Rafe tried to pull Sarah out of his room. “Did you do that to his nose?” Wheezie whispered to Mera. Mera looked down at her, mouth open. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone. He did cry about it for a bit though.” Mera smiled, arms crossed over her stomach. “Are you really John B’s cousin?” Wheezie asked. “You’re way too pretty.” 

Mera tried not to say anything that would make things awkward, so she just laughed, looking down at her feet. “Yes, Wheezie, John B is my cousin. I do appreciate the compliment though,” Mera said with a wink. Eventually, Sarah walked out of Rafe’s room. He slammed the door with a huff, glaring at his sister, who was still smiling like a little devil. “Let me introduce you to Rose,” Sarah said, taking Mera by the hand, leading her back downstairs. Wheezie followed close behind, Rafe dragging his feet. Rose, Sarah’s stepmom, was in the kitchen, pouring a glass of yellow liquid for herself. When she saw the kids walking in, Rose looked up with a smile. “Who’s this?” She asked, her lips painted in a perfect red. “Rose, this is Mera. She’s visiting from California,” Sarah said, sliding into one of the chairs at the bar. Mera was in awe of the kitchen they stood in. She recognized almost nothing inside, but she tried to cover up her shock. “It’s a pretty kitchen, isn’t it?” Rose asked, a proud smile on her face. Mera looked back at her and nodded, flabbergasted. The gally of the pirate ship was the only kitchen Mera had ever seen, but this one was larger than the entire lower deck, it seemed. “It definitely cost a pretty penny.” “Come sit,” Sarah said, patting one of the chairs beside her. Mera complied, startled when the chair started to swivel beneath her. She swallowed whatever surprise she felt and sat as still as she could so it wouldn’t move again. “Want some lemonade?” Rose asked, lifting the pitcher. “I would love some,” Mera said, admiring the glass that the lemonade was held in. “Can I have some too?” Rafe asked, sitting on the other side of her. “You’re a big boy, Rafe,” Rose said, her sweet words turning to poison. “I think you can get some for yourself.” Mera felt her stomach drop. She tried not to look at Rafe as Rose handed her the glass of lemonade. She wasn’t sure she wanted it now. Rolling the glass along its edge, Mera felt her cheeks redden. Without saying anything, she slid the glass closer to Rafe and looked up at him. When he finally lifted his head to look at her, she nodded toward the glass. Did she want to try lemonade? Sure, but there were a million other times she could try it. Sometimes, an olive branch can only be offered once. But Rafe didn’t take it. Instead, he stood up and stormed out of the room. “What a drama queen,” Sarah said with a roll of her eyes. Mera felt the sour feeling in her stomach twist and push its way up into her throat. “Come on. Let’s go outside. You can bring the lemonade.” 

Mera followed Sarah outside, relishing the feel of the sun once again. “What’s it like living with John B?” Sarah asked, tapping her finger against a glass of water. Mera breathed in. “I’ve only been there a day,” Mera said. “But him and his friends have been wonderful.” “You mean the Pogues?” Sarah scoffed and took a drink of water. “Wonderful isn’t really the word I would use to describe them.” “They’ve helped me a lot since coming here. It is a different world than I’m used to. They took me in as if I was already one of their own,” Mera said, the need to defend her friends burning in her chest. “Look, Mera, I can understand why you feel that way.” Sarah put a hand on her elbow. “But believe me, they’re a bad crowd.” “And you’re better?” Mera hadn’t meant to sound so harsh, but Sarah didn’t take offense. Instead, the girl smiled at Mera with the same mischievous grin she had in Rafe’s room. “Hell no.” They walked around the property for a bit, chatting about little things, their previous conversation forgotten almost instantly. “You said you don’t know when you’re leaving, right?” Sarah asked. “No,” Mera said. “But I want to stay here forever.” “Yeah, everyone does. Well, if you want, I can talk to my dad about getting you a temporary job here or something. I would love to have you around more, especially if it means getting you off the cut,” Sarah said, setting her glass on the porch railing. Mera ignored the jab at her friends and smiled. “Really? You would do that?” Mera asked. Sarah gave her a real smile, a kind one. “Of course.” 

“Hey, Sarah!” Mera and Sarah both turned around to see another boy running over. “Hey, Top!” Sarah said. He walked up to them with a smile and threw an arm around Sarah. Mera stood by as he pressed his lips to Sarah’s. Mera tapped her finger against her glass and looked away, grimacing. “Top,” Sarah said, pulling away finally. “This is Mera. Mera, this is Topper.” Topper smile at Mera. “It’s nice to meet you,” Topper said. “You, too.” Mera noted how Sarah didn’t mention John B. That either said something about their relationship or Topper’s attitude toward the Pogues. The three talked for a bit, but it was filler talk. They had nothing else to talk about so they spoke to the weather, the end of school, and a number of meaningless things. With every passing second, Mera felt more and more uncomfortable. “Topper!” Rafe jogged out of the house and Mera almost felt relief at the sight of him. She would rather have a screaming match right here in the grass than listen to Sarah and Topper talk any longer. When Rafe made eye contact with her, he didn’t glare. Maybe he had seen the olive branch and, even if he didn’t take it, he understood it for what it was. Rafe stole Topper away to “talk about dude things”, leaving Mera with Sarah. “You wanna go for a swim?” Sarah asked. Mera felt her smile wobble, before pasting it back on. “No, thank you. I don’t really have many clothes right now and I would hate to get these dirty,” she said. It was a partial truth, even if her clothes were the least of her worries when it came to the water. She wasn’t sure if she would even be allowed to put her feet in the ocean, let alone swim. It wasn’t like there was a manual for what a mermaid was to do once they left the ocean. Mera didn’t know her limits and she wasn’t sure she would test them right now. “Come on,” Sarah said. “You can borrow something of mine. It’s so hot out and-”    “I really appreciate it, Sarah,” Mera said, tone hard. “But I don’t think I should be swimming right now.” Sarah’s smile fell for half a second, but eventually she nodded. “Yeah, of course. We can go back inside, play pool or something until John B is done on the Druthers.” Mera was grateful that Sarah didn’t push any farther. The room with the pool table was bigger than John B’s entire house. Mera had played pool once in England when she was trying to scam information about a slave merchant. She wasn’t sure she really remembered how to play. Luckily for her, Sarah was more than willing to teach it. Partway through their first game, Topper and Rafe walked in, sitting in the chairs. Topper, naturally, rooted for Sarah, being far more enthusiastic than needed for a pool game. Rafe, naturally, rooted against Sarah, meaning he was rooting for Mera. But Mera was losing. The one time she played pool, she played it horribly on purpose to get her target’s attention. She was starting to realize that maybe she wasn’t pretending to be bad. They had just started their third game when John B walked in. “Get out,” Rafe said, standing quickly. “Relax, big man,” John B said with his hands in the air. “Just here for my cousin.”    “Hey, John B,” Mera said, brushing the blue powder onto the tip of her pool stick.    “Hey, cos.” He walked around the table and bumped Mera’s shoulder with his. “Are you winning?” “Definitely not.” 

“Sarah, were you not going to tell me that she was John B’s cousin?” Topper asked, looking at Mera with narrowed eyes. Sarah looked like she was going to say something, but Mera spoke first, leaning against the pool stick. “Would you look at me differently if she had?” “Careful, Top,” Rafe said, keeping his eyes trained on Mera. “She might hit you.”    Mera glared down a Rafe. “Let’s postpone this game, huh?” John B said, offering a peaceful smile. “I’ll take Mera home.” “Sure,” Mera said, setting her jaw and not looking away from Rafe. “Thank you for your hospitality, Sarah.” “I’ll talk to my dad,” Sarah said, taking the pool stick from her. “Just remember what I said about the Pogues, yeah?” Mera had no intention of doing that, but she nodded her head anyway. “See ya, boys,” John B said as he led Mera out of the room. “Don’t let them get to you.” “I want to tear his face off.” “Yeah, you’re not the only one.” 

***

Mera was still fuming when they got back to the house. “Hey.” John B hurried to catch up with her. “Slow down, Mera.” She spun around quickly, furious tears in her eyes. “They sit in their fancy houses drinking their perfectly clear water and lemonade, bashing you and the others, saying you’re bad news, no good. Yet they neglect their own. They have no respect for each other. They have no understanding of forgiveness or compassion or fairness. They are cruel, cruel people living at that house, John B, cruel.” Mera swallowed as she finished, sucking in a deep breath with her hands on her hips. “I didn’t realize it bothered you that much,” John B said. Mera shook her head, covering her face with her hands. “I was fine until they started talking about you and the Pogues. I just don’t understand. 350 years, millions of inventions and improvement, and yet the world has gone nowhere!” Mera let out a huff and dropped to the ground. John B tentatively sat beside her, almost afraid to get in the way of her fury. “That’s just how it is here, Mera,” he said, voice soft. “That’s how it always is.” Mera sighed, tears gathered in her eyes from her frustration. When she looked at John B, he smiled and she felt the anger start to disappear. She heaved out a sigh. “So what do you do when everyone else is at work?” It wasn’t until the sun went down that the rest of the Pogues returned. JJ climbed out of Kiara’s truck with a large, metal barrel, a grin on his face. “What’s in there?” Mera asked John B, setting his hackey sack down on the ground. “A bunch of alcohol.” John B looked at her with a half-grin. “Hey, Mera!” Kiara said, jumping out of the car. Kiara threw her arms around Mera’s neck and gave her a tight hug. “How was the Cameron abode?” Pope asked, helping JJ carry the alcohol out of the truck. Mera huffed out a deep sigh and rolled her eyes. “They’re pigs,” Mera said. “Except maybe Sarah and Wheezie. But especially Rafe.” “Did he say anything to you?” JJ asked, setting the alcohol down harder than he should have, leaving all the weight on Pope. “Nope,” Mera said quickly. “No, nothing.” “Good,” JJ said, walking by her with a wink. “Wouldn’t want to drive up there and beat his ass.” “I think if Rafe tried anything,” Pope said, trying to carry the alcohol by himself over to the van. “Mera would have beat his ass herself.” “You know it.” “So we’re going to bring this kegger to the boneyard and get the party started, yeah?” John B said, finally helping Pope lift the alcohol into the van. “Do you want to change?” Kiara asked, putting a hand on Mera’s elbow. “Do you think I need to?” “Well, we end up in the ocean a lot and wet jeans aren’t very fun,” Kiara said. Another mention of the ocean. Mera shook her head slowly. “I don’t think that I’ll be going in the water,” Mera said. “You girls ready to go?” JJ called from the back of the van. “Coming!” Kiara turned to Mera. “You ready for your first party with the pogues?” “As I’ll ever be.”

[marveltrumpshate]

Since there is no Avengers Initiative working to physically fight our way to a more equitable world, we have to rely frequently on advocacy, public education, and litigation to bend the arc of the work more quickly towards justice. If this is your personal charitable focus, you have a lot of options to choose from, from organizations working on systemic change for marginalized populations to those focusing on freeing individuals from the prison industrial complex. Several of these are featured in our other spotlight posts, but as a major part of their work deals with legal advocacy for and education about civil and human rights, we wanted to include them here.

Common Cause

Common Cause is a U.S.-based nonpartisan grassroots “organization fighting for an accountable government, equal rights/opportunities/representation and empowering voices to be heard.” Their work includes advocating for voter rights and election protection, combating gerrymandering, reforming campaign finance, pushing for fair courts, supporting net neutrality, and much more. Over the past 50 years, they've had landmark successes such as leading the campaign that secured the 26th Amendment, which allows 18-year-olds to vote, and suing Nixon's campaign, which played a key role in unfolding the Watergate scandal.

Due to the election in November, they've received far more volunteer interest than anticipated. While this is great, it is also putting an immense strain on their staff and resources, and they require assistance in the next few weeks to train, equip, and place volunteers.

Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund

DREDF is the leading civil rights organization in the United States that fights for and is directed by people with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities. Not only does DREDF work directly with their clients to help them know their own rights, but they train and educate lawyers, lawmakers, and other societal gatekeepers to make sure they know those rights as well.

Equal Justice Initiative

Anyone who saw the film Just Mercy, starring the MCU’s own Michael B. Jordan, is familiar with the story and work of the EJI. Founded in 1989, EJI is a disruptive entity within the criminal justice system in the United States that strives to end mass incarceration, excessive punishment, and racial inequality. They provide groundbreaking research and pragmatic education along with legal representation and advocacy for people who don’t have the resources to fight wrongful convictions, institutional abuse, or the like.

Innocence Project

The mission of the Innocence Project is deceptively simple: exonerate those who have been wrongly convicted through the use of DNA evidence. The reality of it involves much broader strokes involving criminal justice reform. While this organization was started towards the end of Thurgood Marshall’s life, the law school that bears his name in Houston is a member organization. The mods want to highlight that connection in honor of Chadwick’s brilliant portrayal of the Supreme Court justice in the film Marshall.

Lambda Legal

“Founded in 1973, Lambda Legal is the oldest and largest national legal organization whose mission is to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.” Their work touches upon various aspects of life and issues for all ages such as employment, fair courts, marriage and family protection, health care, HIV, immigration, police and criminal justice, race, and religious exemptions. Lambda does not charge any of their clients for representation or advocacy, relying exclusively on donors for operating costs.

NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund

Founded by Thurgood Marshall in 1940, NAACP LDF is the U.S.'s first and foremost civil and human rights legal organization and law firm. Their mission is “to achieve racial justice, equality, and an inclusive society” which they accomplish through direct litigation, macrosocial advocacy/research, and public education. This is another Chadwick connection via his role in Marshall.

National Immigration Law Center

NILC is at the core of ensuring an equitable and accessible future for low-income immigrants and their families in the United States. Their work encompasses a wide variety of issues: DACA; access to health care, government economic support, and education; workers' rights; tax navigation; immigration policy and enforcement reform, especially with regard to detention and deportation; and more.

Native American Rights Fund

NARF is the oldest and largest nonprofit that defends Native American rights and provides legal assistance to Native American tribes, organizations, and individuals across the U.S. They concentrate on issues such as tribal sovereignty, land rights and treaty compliance, tribal natural resource protection, education on Native American human rights, and more.

Planned Parenthood

The largest provider of reproductive health services in the U.S., Planned Parenthood has offered a wide array of services for over 100 years. In addition to confidential patient care, they provide sex education and advocate for the protection and expansion of reproductive rights and access to health care, especially for women. PP also promotes research in reproductive technology and works towards global women's and reproductive health with partner organizations around the world.

Southern Poverty Law Center

They’re mostly known in the U.S. as a hate group watchdog of sorts, but their work goes beyond tracking and exposing hate groups and promoting tolerance education programs. SPLC works on voting rights advocacy, children's rights, immigration reform and family reunification, LGBTQ+ rights, economic justice, and criminal justice reform, working "with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all people." Essentially, if there is injustice against a vulnerable and/or marginalized group in the U.S., SPLC aims to address and fix it.

For more information on donation methods and currencies per organization, please refer to our list of organizations page.

[newstfionline]

Friday, April 9, 2021

The $50 billion race to save America’s renters from eviction (Washington Post) The Biden administration again extended a federal moratorium on evictions last week, but conflicting court rulings on whether the ban is legal, plus the difficulty of rolling out nearly $50 billion in federal aid, means the country’s reckoning with its eviction crisis may come sooner than expected. The year-old federal moratorium—which has now been extended through June 30—has probably kept hundreds of thousands or millions of people from being evicted from their apartments and homes. More than 10 million Americans are behind on rent, according to Moody’s, easily topping the 7 million who lost their homes to foreclosure in the 2008 housing bust. Despite the unprecedented federal effort to protect tenants, landlords have been chipping away at the moratorium in court. Treasury Department officials have been armed with nearly $50 billion in emergency aid for renters who have fallen behind, and are racing to distribute it through hundreds of state, local and tribal housing agencies, some of which have not created programs yet. The idea is to get the money to renters before courts nationwide begin processing evictions again.

A court filing says parents of 445 separated migrant children still have not been found. (NYT) The parents of 61 migrant children who were separated from their families at the U.S.-Mexico border by the Trump administration have been located since February, but lawyers still cannot find the parents of 445 children, according to a court filing on Wednesday. In the filing, the Justice Department and the American Civil Liberties Union indicated slow progress in the ongoing effort to reunite families that were affected by a policy to prosecute all undocumented immigrants in the United States, even if it meant separating children from their parents. Of the 445 remaining children, a majority are believed to have parents who were deported, while more than 100 children are believed to have parents currently in the United States, according to the court filing. The government has yet to provide contact information that would help locate the families of more than a dozen children.

N Ireland leaders call for calm after night of rioting (AP) Rioters set a hijacked bus on fire and hurled gasoline bombs at police in Belfast in at least the fourth night of serious violence in a week in Northern Ireland, where Brexit has unsettled an uneasy political balance. Youths threw projectiles and petrol bombs at police on Wednesday night in the Protestant Shankill Road area, while rioters lobbed bricks, fireworks and petrol bombs in both directions over the concrete “peace wall” separating the Shankill Road from a neighboring Irish nationalist area. Police Service of Northern Ireland Assistant Chief Constable Jonathan Roberts said several hundred people gathered on both sides of a gate in the wall, where “crowds ... were committing serious criminal offenses, both attacking police and attacking each other.” He said a total of 55 police officers have been injured over several nights of disorder. The recent violence, largely in pro-British loyalist areas, has flared amid rising tensions over post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland and worsening relations between the parties in the Protestant-Catholic power-sharing Belfast government.

Biden seems ready to extend US troop presence in Afghanistan (AP) Without coming right out and saying it, President Joe Biden seems ready to let lapse a May 1 deadline for completing a withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan. Orderly withdrawals take time, and Biden is running out of it. Biden has inched so close to the deadline that his indecision amounts almost to a decision to put off, at least for a number of months, a pullout of the remaining 2,500 troops and continue supporting the Afghan military at the risk of a Taliban backlash. Removing all of the troops and their equipment in the next three weeks—along with coalition partners who can’t get out on their own—would be difficult logistically, as Biden himself suggested in late March. “It’s going to be hard to meet the May 1 deadline,” he said. “Just in terms of tactical reasons, it’s hard to get those troops out.” Tellingly, he added, “And if we leave, we’re going to do so in a safe and orderly way.”

One in six Latin American youths left work since pandemic’s start (Reuters) Across Latin America and the Caribbean, one in every six people aged 18 to 29 has left work since the coronavirus pandemic began, forcing many to abandon their studies, a report said on Thursday. The precariousness of employment for young people rose across the region, according to an investigation by Canadian charity Cuso International based on data from a U.N. commission and a poll by the International Labour Organization. “It’s extremely difficult for young people to access the labor market due to issues around specialization, lower wages, and poverty,” the advocacy group’s Colombia director Alejandro Matos told Reuters. More than half of those who stopped working since the start of the pandemic were let go by their employers, the report said, while others saw their businesses close and those employed in the informal sector could not work due to lockdowns.

Myanmar ambassador in London locked out of embassy after speaking out against military (Washington Post) Myanmar’s ambassador to Britain, who has spoken out again the military coup in his country, said he was barred from the embassy in London on Wednesday by officials loyal to the military junta. “They are refusing to let me inside,” Kyaw Zwar Minn told the Telegraph. “They said they received instruction from the capital, so they are not going to let me in.” Kyaw Zwar Minn told the British newspaper that when he left the embassy during the day, colleagues and officials linked to the military stormed the premises and kept him from reentering that evening. In early March, the ambassador, a former military colonel, spoke out against the military’s detention of the former British colony’s leader Aung San Suu Kyi, drawing criticism from the junta that had orchestrated her ouster and praise from the British government for his “courage.” The London-based ambassador was recalled, according to Myanmar state television, after he posted a statement on the embassy’s Facebook page demanding “the release of State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Win Myint,” but he did not return to Myanmar.

Merkel tells Putin to pull back troops as Kremlin accuses Ukraine of provocations (Reuters) German Chancellor Angela Merkel told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday to pull back the Kremlin’s military buildup near the border with Ukraine, while he in turn accused Kyiv of “provocative actions” in the conflict region. Ukraine has raised the alarm over an increase in Russian forces near its eastern border as violence has risen along the line of contact separating its troops from Russia-backed separatists in its Donbass region. Russia has said its forces pose no threat and were defensive, but that they would stay there as long as Moscow saw fit. A senior Kremlin official said on Thursday that Moscow could under certain circumstances be forced to defend its citizens in Donbass and that major hostilities could mark the beginning of the end of Ukraine as a country.

China builds advanced weapons systems using American chip technology (Washington Post) In a secretive military facility in southwest China, a supercomputer whirs away, simulating the heat and drag on hypersonic vehicles speeding through the atmosphere—missiles that could one day be aimed at a U.S. aircraft carrier or Taiwan, according to former U.S. officials and Western analysts. The computer is powered by tiny chips designed by a Chinese firm called Phytium Technology using American software and built in the world’s most advanced chip factory in Taiwan, which hums with American precision machinery, say the analysts. Phytium portrays itself as a commercial company aspiring to become a global chip giant like Intel. It does not publicize its connections to the research arms of the People’s Liberation Army. The hypersonic test facility is located at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Center (CARDC), which also obscures its military connections though it is run by a PLA major general, according to public documents, and the former officials and analysts, many of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive matter. Phytium’s partnership with CARDC offers a prime example of how China is quietly harnessing civilian technologies for strategic military purposes—with the help of American technology. The trade is not illegal but is a vital link in a global high-tech supply chain that is difficult to regulate because the same computer chips that could be used for a commercial data center can power a military supercomputer.

Indonesia landslides death toll rises to 140, dozens missing (AP) The death toll from mudslides in eastern Indonesia has risen to 140 with dozens still missing, officials said Wednesday, as rain continued to pound the region and hamper the search. East Flores district on Adonara island suffered the highest losses with 67 bodies recovered so far and six missing. Mud tumbled down from surrounding hills early on Sunday, catching people at sleep. Some were swept away by flash floods after overnight rains caused rivers to burst their banks. On nearby Lembata island, the downpour triggered by Tropical Cyclone Seroja sent solidified lava from a volcanic eruption in November to crash down on more than a dozen villages, killing at least 32 and leaving 35 unaccounted for, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency.

Reversing Trump, Biden Restores Aid to Palestinians (NYT) The Biden administration announced on Wednesday that it would restore hundreds of millions of dollars in American aid to Palestinians, its strongest move yet to reverse President Donald J. Trump’s policy on the protracted Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The package, which gives at least $235 million in assistance to Palestinians, will go to humanitarian, economic, development and security efforts in the region, and is part of the administration’s attempt to rehabilitate U.S. relations with Palestinians, which effectively stopped when Mr. Trump was in office. The restoration of aid amounted to the most direct repudiation so far of Mr. Trump’s tilt toward Israel in its decades-old conflict with the Palestinian population in Israeli-controlled territories.

Royal rift ends (NYT) Jordan’s King Abdullah II said on Wednesday that the “discord” that has roiled the kingdom for days has “been stopped,” signaling a resolution to a rare royal rift that resulted in the house arrest of Prince Hamzah bin Hussein, the former crown prince, and the detention of several Jordanian officials who were accused of plotting a foreign-backed coup against the monarchy.

Conflict and COVID driving record hunger in DR Congo, warns UN (Al Jazeera) A record 27.3 million people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are facing acute hunger, one-third of the violence-wracked Central African country’s population, largely because of conflict and the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Nations has warned. The DRC is “home to the highest number of people in urgent need of food security assistance in the world,” the World Food Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organization said on Tuesday in a joint statement, describing the scale of the crisis as “staggering”. “For the first time ever we were able to analyse the vast majority of the population, and this has helped us to come closer to the true picture of the staggering scale of food insecurity in the DRC,” Peter Musoko, WFP’s representative in the country, said. “This country should be able to feed its population and export a surplus. We cannot have children going to bed hungry and families skipping meals for an entire day,” he said.

Beware The Carpet Cleaner (The Guardian) Parkinson’s disease is the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world, and the US is experiencing an explosion of cases. In the last decade, the number of Parkinson’s cases in America has increased 35%, and a neurologist at the University of Rochester Medical Center thinks over the next 25 years it will double again. Most cases of the disease are considered idiopathic—without a clear cause. But researchers now believe one factor is environmental exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE), a chemical compound used in industrial degreasing, dry-cleaning, and household products like some shoe polishes and carpet cleaners. TCE is a carcinogen already linked to renal cell carcinoma, cancers of the cervix, liver, biliary passages, lymphatic system and male breast tissue, fetal cardiac defects, and more. Several studies point to a link between Parkinson’s and workplace exposure to TCE. The US Labor Department issued guidance on TCE saying exposures to carbon disulfide (CS2) and TCE are presumed to “cause, contribute or aggravate Parkinsonism.”

‘Tantalizing’ results of 2 experiments defy physics rulebook (AP) Preliminary results from two experiments suggest something could be wrong with the basic way physicists think the universe works, a prospect that has the field of particle physics both baffled and thrilled. Tiny particles called muons aren’t quite doing what is expected of them in two different long-running experiments in the United States and Europe. The confounding results—if proven right—reveal major problems with the rulebook physicists use to describe and understand how the universe works at the subatomic level. “We think we might be swimming in a sea of background particles all the time that just haven’t been directly discovered,” Fermilab experiment co-chief scientist Chris Polly said in a press conference. “There might be monsters we haven’t yet imagined that are emerging from the vacuum interacting with our muons and this gives us a window into seeing them.” If confirmed, the U.S. results would be the biggest finding in the bizarre world of subatomic particles in nearly 10 years, since the discovery of the Higgs boson, often called the “God particle,” said Aida El-Khadra of the University of Illinois, who works on theoretical physics for the Fermilab experiment.

Unlikely chauffeur (Foreign Policy) Kevin Rudd is best known as a former Australian prime minister. Last Tuesday night in Queensland, he was mistaken for an Uber driver. The former Labor party leader became an unlikely chauffeur when a group of revelers—described as “tipsy” by Rudd’s daughter—piled into his car as he sought parking at a local restaurant. Rudd obliged the passengers, reportedly driving half the journey to the town’s main drag before being recognized by his would-be customers. “Four young Melburnians getting drenched in a Queensland subtropical downpour at Noosa last night with no Uber in sight … So what’s a man to do?” Rudd later wrote on Twitter.