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News Briefs The Indo-American Democratic Organization (IADO) will be
launching a non-partisan voter registration drive this summer on Devon
Ave.; at churches and temples; in Skokie; and other areas with a high
Indian American population. Voter registration is non-partisan. If you
would like to volunteer to help us with this project - you should become a
Deputy Registrar in order to be able to register new voters. Information
on June 16th deputy registrar training session follows. The Asian American Institute and Indo-American Democratic Organization are deeply disappointed that Chicago will mark Asian American Heritage Month by leaving Asian Americans out of the City’s affirmative action program for the construction industry. The Mayor’s Task Force is recommending that Asian Americans not be included as a presumptive group in the City’s new MBE/WBE construction ordinance. We strongly disagree with the Task Force's and City’s attorneys interpretation of Judge Moran's ruling. Nowhere in his meticulous ruling does Judge Moran say that Asian Americans should be excluded. The Asian American Bar Association, the Indian American Bar Association, and the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois have combed the 30-page ruling, and agree with us on this. “Asian American contractors are being excluded because the problems of our community - including a history of discrimination – are masked by the ‘model minority’ myth,” said Tuyet Le, Executive Director of the Asian American Institute. “Those who want to dismantle affirmative action portray Asian Americans as the ‘model minority’ -- universally successful, well-educated and immune to discrimination. But the stories and history of the community reveal a very different reality.” Any decision about Asian Americans in affirmative action programs must be informed by an understanding of Asian American poverty, discrimination, and lack of political representation. The City can be commended for expending its resources to protect this much needed program. The Task Force has taken a step in the right direction by recommending that the City fund research to determine discrimination in the construction industry, and revisit our inclusion in the program after the study is completed. The Mayor’s staff has continued to be receptive in working with the contractors to make the best of this situation. ”The Mayor has shown strong leadership in creating the possibility for women and the gay/lesbian community to have a voice in City Council. He now has a chance to make a lasting contribution to Asian American political empowerment” said Selma D’Souza, president of the Indo-American Democratic Organization.” Last month, the Asian American Institute, Indo-American Democratic Organization, and community members requested a meeting with the Mayor to discuss three major concerns: 1. Inclusion of Asian Americans in the City’s construction affirmative action program. 2. Resources for organizations that serve Asian Americans in poverty and in need. 3. Support for qualified Asian Americans to elected office. We recognize the courage of those who have stood up to speak on behalf of our community. City council members and contractors of every race have supported us in our struggle. They recognize what is at stake is affirmative action programs for all minorities. Asian American Heritage Month should be used as a time to reflect on the state of Asian Americans. We welcome the opportunity to discuss community issues with the Mayor and our other elected officials. Asian Americans should use this month to recognize the strength in our unity, and celebrate the courage of those who stand up for what is right.
Voter registration
drive February 7 and 14 To join IADO's Young Democrats, CLICK HERE. |
