Thursday - Sunday, October 4-7, 2007
World Conference on Japanese Military Sexual Slavery
UCLA Northwest Auditorium , Sunset Village, 330 De Neve Drive
UCLA School of Law
UCLA Campus
Los Angeles, CA 90095
Free and open to the public.
Conference website: http://jmss.info/
Building on the momentum of House Resolution 121, this conference will be the first global gathering of scholars, non-governmental organizations, human rights activists, attorneys, artists, and importantly, the survivors, to honor the bravery and struggles of the aging victims of Japan's World War II military sexual slavery (the "comfort women"). This conference will raise awareness of specific strategies to put pressure on the Japanese government to provide an official apology and appropriate reparations. The conference will also expose contemporary issues in gender-based and sexual violence, as well as the sexual trafficking of women around the world.
Southeast Asia content will include representatives from Indonesia and the Philippines.
Numerous co-sponsors including Amnesty International, UCLA School of Law, UCLA Center for Korean Studies, Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking.
From: UCLA Center for Southeast Asian Studies
Recent News 
World Conference on Japanese Military Sexual Slavery
September 28, 2007
Filipino/Tagalog Placement Exam
September 26, 2007
Looking to fulfill your language requirement or just learn the national language of the Philippines? If you are interested in taking Beginning Tagalog (SE Asian 70A), Intermediate Tagalog (SE Asian 71A) or Advanced Tagalog (SE Asian 172A) but have not taken any previous classes at UCLA, come take the Filipino placement exam:
When: Friday, September 28, 3PM to 5PM
Where: Haines A2
The exam will cover reading and listening comprehension as well as writing. Even if you do not consider yourself fluent, take the exam anyway -- it might save you some extra units!
ALSO Beginning Tagalog is currently waitlisted, but attend the first few classes if you want to enroll and it is most likely you will get in. Intermediate and Advanced Tagalog are still open and require you to have completed SEAsian 70C or 71C respectively, or have the permission of the instructor. SE Asian 172A is only offered once every three years so take advantage of this rare opportunity!
For more information, please contact Prof. Nenita P. Domingo at domingo [at] humnet [dot] ucla [dot] edu.
When: Friday, September 28, 3PM to 5PM
Where: Haines A2
The exam will cover reading and listening comprehension as well as writing. Even if you do not consider yourself fluent, take the exam anyway -- it might save you some extra units!
ALSO Beginning Tagalog is currently waitlisted, but attend the first few classes if you want to enroll and it is most likely you will get in. Intermediate and Advanced Tagalog are still open and require you to have completed SEAsian 70C or 71C respectively, or have the permission of the instructor. SE Asian 172A is only offered once every three years so take advantage of this rare opportunity!
For more information, please contact Prof. Nenita P. Domingo at domingo [at] humnet [dot] ucla [dot] edu.
Racism Exists
September 25, 2007
Asian American Institute Represents Filipino American Nurse Harassed by H&M Employee
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
September 24, 2007
Contact: Myron Dean Quon, Esq.
AAI Legal Director
Cell: 773-865-6742
Work: 773-271-0899
myron@aaichicago.org
(Chicago, IL) - Asian American Institute filed a discrimination complaint with the City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations, seeking redress for Frannie Richards, a Filipino American nurse who suffered anti-Asian and sex-based harassment at the Magnificent Mile H&M department store. The harassment included "mail-order bride" comments, ridicule concerning Ms. Richards' ability to understand English, as well as mocking "ching, ching, chang" noises by an H&M employee.
"Anti-Asian, xenophobic, and misogynist verbal attacks still happen on a daily basis," said Asian American Institute Legal Director Myron Dean Quon. "Asian American women, like Ms. Richards, should never have to deal with this type of harassment, in Chicago no less."
This past September, when Ms. Richards entered H&M to go shopping for clothes, she had no idea that she would be the victim of a hostile and threatening environment. "As a registered nurse and retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Staff Sgt., I knew that I had to enforce my civil rights, for myself and other Asian American women. Because H&M refused to discipline this employee, I immediately thought of my own female relatives and friends. The workplace usage of disparaging anti-Asian slurs should require the termination of that H&M employee."
Quon noted that Asian Americans should be able to visit retail establishments and other businesses without having to endure a humiliating and offensive environment. Asian American Institute will represent Ms. Richards based her claim that H&M violated the City's Human Rights Ordinance, when the employee harassed Ms. Richards and also when in it refused her request to file a formal complaint. Chicago's anti-discrimination ordinances guard against discrimination, including anti-Asian and sex-based discrimination, when the discriminatory incident takes place in Chicago and involves employment, housing, public accommodations, credit, or bonding.
Myron Dean Quon is the attorney on Richards v. H&M Hennes & Mauritz, Case #07-P-100.
The Asian American Institute ( www.aaichicago.org) is the region's pan-Asian nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the Asian Pacific American community through advocacy, by utilizing research, education, and coalition-building.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
September 24, 2007
Contact: Myron Dean Quon, Esq.
AAI Legal Director
Cell: 773-865-6742
Work: 773-271-0899
myron@aaichicago.org
(Chicago, IL) - Asian American Institute filed a discrimination complaint with the City of Chicago Commission on Human Relations, seeking redress for Frannie Richards, a Filipino American nurse who suffered anti-Asian and sex-based harassment at the Magnificent Mile H&M department store. The harassment included "mail-order bride" comments, ridicule concerning Ms. Richards' ability to understand English, as well as mocking "ching, ching, chang" noises by an H&M employee.
"Anti-Asian, xenophobic, and misogynist verbal attacks still happen on a daily basis," said Asian American Institute Legal Director Myron Dean Quon. "Asian American women, like Ms. Richards, should never have to deal with this type of harassment, in Chicago no less."
This past September, when Ms. Richards entered H&M to go shopping for clothes, she had no idea that she would be the victim of a hostile and threatening environment. "As a registered nurse and retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Staff Sgt., I knew that I had to enforce my civil rights, for myself and other Asian American women. Because H&M refused to discipline this employee, I immediately thought of my own female relatives and friends. The workplace usage of disparaging anti-Asian slurs should require the termination of that H&M employee."
Quon noted that Asian Americans should be able to visit retail establishments and other businesses without having to endure a humiliating and offensive environment. Asian American Institute will represent Ms. Richards based her claim that H&M violated the City's Human Rights Ordinance, when the employee harassed Ms. Richards and also when in it refused her request to file a formal complaint. Chicago's anti-discrimination ordinances guard against discrimination, including anti-Asian and sex-based discrimination, when the discriminatory incident takes place in Chicago and involves employment, housing, public accommodations, credit, or bonding.
Myron Dean Quon is the attorney on Richards v. H&M Hennes & Mauritz, Case #07-P-100.
The Asian American Institute ( www.aaichicago.org) is the region's pan-Asian nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the Asian Pacific American community through advocacy, by utilizing research, education, and coalition-building.
Marcos v. GMA
September 22, 2007
Interesting short clip made that was sent to Samahang Pilipino. Take a look at it here.
What do you think?
What do you think?
Pilipino Welcome Reception!!!
September 19, 2007
Come to the Pilipino Welcome Reception! Eat Pilipino food and meet Pilipinos/Pilipinas on and off campus! Learn about ways you can be involved in the Pilipino/Pilipina community from members of UCLA's P-Orgs:
-Center for Asian American Studies
-Asian American Studies Department
-Center for Southeast Asian Studies
-Asian Pacific Coalition
Also, learn about how you can be involved in the community through these organizations:
-Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA)
-Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI)
-Fil-Am Library
-Habi Arts
-AnakBayan LA
-Pilipino Worker's Center (PWC)
Location: Sunset Canyon Recreation Center
Date: September 27th, Thursday of Week 0
Time: 3-8 PM
Start the year off right!!!
- Kappa Psi Epsilon
- Pilipino Recruitment Enrichment Program
- Pilipino Transfer Student Partnership
- Pilipinos in Engineering
- Pilipinos for Community Health
- Samahang Pilipino
- Theta Delta Beta
- Tinig
- Zeta Phi Rho
-Center for Asian American Studies
-Asian American Studies Department
-Center for Southeast Asian Studies
-Asian Pacific Coalition
Also, learn about how you can be involved in the community through these organizations:
-Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA)
-Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI)
-Fil-Am Library
-Habi Arts
-AnakBayan LA
-Pilipino Worker's Center (PWC)
Location: Sunset Canyon Recreation Center
Date: September 27th, Thursday of Week 0
Time: 3-8 PM
Start the year off right!!!
Samahang Pilipino on The Price is Right!
September 17, 2007
Is it your lifelong dream to hear the words "(Insert name here), come on down!"
Ever wanted to be on a game show in the hopes of spinning the big wheel, playing your favorite games like Plinko, winning a new car, or even meeting Bob Barker? (Well, you're too late because now it's Drew Carey!)
Well here's your chance to the start off the year by joining Samahang Pilipino on The Price is Right on Tuesday and Wednesday of Welcome Week! Let's represent SP as an organization, both potential and current members, so we can all bond and through the process meet some new faces!
We are attending two tapings during 0 Week:
Tuesday, September 25 at 12:00pm
Wednesday, September 26 at 12:00pm
There are only two requirements:
1) You must be 18 years or older.
2) Purchase a Samahang Pilipino t-shirt for $15 to wear for the taping.
Only 30 people are allowed per taping, so I'll give priority to incoming students and then to everyone else who responds. Please contact jtengco@ucla.edu for which one of the two tapings you would like to attend.
Lastly, (and this is the best part) keep in mind that one person from our crazy group of Pilipinos WILL most likely actually be called to contestant's row to be on the show! And that person could be you...
Ever wanted to be on a game show in the hopes of spinning the big wheel, playing your favorite games like Plinko, winning a new car, or even meeting Bob Barker? (Well, you're too late because now it's Drew Carey!)
Well here's your chance to the start off the year by joining Samahang Pilipino on The Price is Right on Tuesday and Wednesday of Welcome Week! Let's represent SP as an organization, both potential and current members, so we can all bond and through the process meet some new faces!
We are attending two tapings during 0 Week:
Tuesday, September 25 at 12:00pm
Wednesday, September 26 at 12:00pm
There are only two requirements:
1) You must be 18 years or older.
2) Purchase a Samahang Pilipino t-shirt for $15 to wear for the taping.
Only 30 people are allowed per taping, so I'll give priority to incoming students and then to everyone else who responds. Please contact jtengco@ucla.edu for which one of the two tapings you would like to attend.
Lastly, (and this is the best part) keep in mind that one person from our crazy group of Pilipinos WILL most likely actually be called to contestant's row to be on the show! And that person could be you...
Samahang Pilipino Week 12
September 10, 2007
I. Sayaw ng Silangan
II. BREAKING NEWS: Bush assures PGMA to support two bills for Filipino vets
III. Contribute to Samahang e-mails
----------------
I. Sayaw ng Silangan
Hey everyone! Angelica here. Hope that all your summers are going well. But do you have a sudden craving to go fishing? Or perhaps you dare to balance candles or glasses of water? Looking for a fun time throwing people onto bangkos?
Guess what? Sayaw ng Silangan, the dance troupe under Samahang Pilipino that performs traditional folk dances, is in need of dancers, teachers, and other things too! So if you're taking summer session C or in the LA area, this may be for you!
For those who have experience in certain dances, we'd like for you to consider helping us teach dances; if you don't feel comfortable teaching, it's ok! cause we're looking for dancers, too. Doesn't matter if you have experience, or are just looking for a good time; this is a great opportunity =).
Also, for those in the rural suite in PCN...Don't know what to do with your barney colored costumes? We have a solution! Contact either me or Sean Canullas (info below) if you are interested.
So here's the gist:
*WANTED: Sayaw ng Silangan TEACHERS, DANCERS, COSTUMES
*WHO TO CONTACT?:
Angelica Bato
angelica.bato@gmail.com
or facebook me!
Sean Canullas
sean.canullas@gmail.com
Thanks!
PS from Sean: Our first meeting and practice will be next Wednesday, Sept 12th from 4-5:30 pm at Westwood Plaza's Stage. Please contact me beforehand so I know to expect you. Thanks and see you there!
------------------------------
II. BREAKING NEWS: Bush assures PGMA to support two bills for Filipino vets
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and United States President George W. Bush had a brief meeting on Saturday, first day of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit held in Sydney, Australia.
Presidential Spokesman and Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, in an email, said the two leaders had a chat for about five to seven minutes and talked about two US bills that would benefit some 18,500 surviving Filipino World War II veterans -- around 6,000 living in the United States and around 12,000 in the Philippines.
He said the US President has promised President Arroyo to sign The Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007 (HR 70), which was sponsored by Chairman of House Veterans' Affairs Committee Rep. Bob Filner.
HR 70 is a stand-alone bill specifically intended to cover benefits for Filipino veterans.
Another bill, The Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007 (S-1315), which was introduced by Chairman of Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee Senator Daniel Akaka, is an omnibus veterans' bill covering benefits for all US veterans.
It is hoped that once the final version of the veterans' bill is sent to President Bush, he will sign it into law immediately, said Bunye.
He stressed this issue is very important for the Philippines and the Filipino people, "as it will finally mean the end of a decades-long struggle for Filipino veterans to be recognized for their meaningful contributions to the campaign for democracy during the Second World War."
"Through the Filipinos' valour and courage -- fighting side by side with American soldiers -- the ramparts of freedom were strengthened in Asia," he added.
Bunye said the passing into law of these two bills in the US Congress "will be a profound gesture reflective of the deep and abiding relations between the Philippines and the United States and the Filipino and American peoples' shared commitment to uphold the values of freedom, democracy and justice for all." - PNA
_______
Arroyo asks Bush to support Pinoy veterans bills
President Arroyo has urged US President George W. Bush to immediately sign into law two bills that will benefit Filipino veterans once they are passed by the US Congress, Malacanang announced Saturday.
Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the two leaders discussed the bills - the Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007 and the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007 - at the sidelines of the 15th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Sydney, Australia.
Presidents Bush and Arroyo talked for a few minutes before the meeting of the APEC Business Advisory Council began at the Sydney Opera House.
Bunye quoted Mrs. Arroyo as saying to Bush: "Passed into law, this will be a profound gesture reflective of the deep and abiding relations between the Philippines and the United States and the Filipino and American peoples' shared commitment to uphold the values of democracy and justice for all."
The presidential spokesman said Mrs. Arroyo also stressed the importance of the passage of the bills to the Filipinos, adding that signing them into law will end the decade-long struggle of Filipino veterans to be recognized for their contributions during World War II, according to Bunye.
The Filipino Veterans Equity Act, which was sponsored by Rep. Bob Filner, chairman of US House veterans affairs committee, is a stand-alone bill specifically intended to cover benefits for Filipino veterans.
As a stand-alone bill, the House version provides more benefits specifically for Filipino veterans, Bunye added.
The Veterans Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007, on the other hand, was introduced by Sen. Daniel Akaka, chairman of the US Senate veterans affairs committee. The measure is an omnibus veterans' bill covering benefits for all US veterans.
The press secretary said Akaka put to a committee vote his bill after he realized that "the Senate version of a stand-alone measure for Filipinos veterans would not have enough support in the Senate."
Bunye said about 18,500 Filipino veterans will be benefited if the bills are passed into law. About 6,000 Filipino veterans are now living in the US while 12,000 of them are in the Philippines.
-----------------------------
III. Contribute to Samahang e-mails
Send contributions to samahang@ucla.edu.
Messages received before 10PM Sunday nights will be included in the following week's mass email.
II. BREAKING NEWS: Bush assures PGMA to support two bills for Filipino vets
III. Contribute to Samahang e-mails
----------------
I. Sayaw ng Silangan
Hey everyone! Angelica here. Hope that all your summers are going well. But do you have a sudden craving to go fishing? Or perhaps you dare to balance candles or glasses of water? Looking for a fun time throwing people onto bangkos?
Guess what? Sayaw ng Silangan, the dance troupe under Samahang Pilipino that performs traditional folk dances, is in need of dancers, teachers, and other things too! So if you're taking summer session C or in the LA area, this may be for you!
For those who have experience in certain dances, we'd like for you to consider helping us teach dances; if you don't feel comfortable teaching, it's ok! cause we're looking for dancers, too. Doesn't matter if you have experience, or are just looking for a good time; this is a great opportunity =).
Also, for those in the rural suite in PCN...Don't know what to do with your barney colored costumes? We have a solution! Contact either me or Sean Canullas (info below) if you are interested.
So here's the gist:
*WANTED: Sayaw ng Silangan TEACHERS, DANCERS, COSTUMES
*WHO TO CONTACT?:
Angelica Bato
angelica.bato@gmail.com
or facebook me!
Sean Canullas
sean.canullas@gmail.com
Thanks!
PS from Sean: Our first meeting and practice will be next Wednesday, Sept 12th from 4-5:30 pm at Westwood Plaza's Stage. Please contact me beforehand so I know to expect you. Thanks and see you there!
------------------------------
II. BREAKING NEWS: Bush assures PGMA to support two bills for Filipino vets
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and United States President George W. Bush had a brief meeting on Saturday, first day of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit held in Sydney, Australia.
Presidential Spokesman and Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, in an email, said the two leaders had a chat for about five to seven minutes and talked about two US bills that would benefit some 18,500 surviving Filipino World War II veterans -- around 6,000 living in the United States and around 12,000 in the Philippines.
He said the US President has promised President Arroyo to sign The Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007 (HR 70), which was sponsored by Chairman of House Veterans' Affairs Committee Rep. Bob Filner.
HR 70 is a stand-alone bill specifically intended to cover benefits for Filipino veterans.
Another bill, The Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007 (S-1315), which was introduced by Chairman of Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee Senator Daniel Akaka, is an omnibus veterans' bill covering benefits for all US veterans.
It is hoped that once the final version of the veterans' bill is sent to President Bush, he will sign it into law immediately, said Bunye.
He stressed this issue is very important for the Philippines and the Filipino people, "as it will finally mean the end of a decades-long struggle for Filipino veterans to be recognized for their meaningful contributions to the campaign for democracy during the Second World War."
"Through the Filipinos' valour and courage -- fighting side by side with American soldiers -- the ramparts of freedom were strengthened in Asia," he added.
Bunye said the passing into law of these two bills in the US Congress "will be a profound gesture reflective of the deep and abiding relations between the Philippines and the United States and the Filipino and American peoples' shared commitment to uphold the values of freedom, democracy and justice for all." - PNA
_______
Arroyo asks Bush to support Pinoy veterans bills
President Arroyo has urged US President George W. Bush to immediately sign into law two bills that will benefit Filipino veterans once they are passed by the US Congress, Malacanang announced Saturday.
Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the two leaders discussed the bills - the Filipino Veterans Equity Act of 2007 and the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007 - at the sidelines of the 15th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Sydney, Australia.
Presidents Bush and Arroyo talked for a few minutes before the meeting of the APEC Business Advisory Council began at the Sydney Opera House.
Bunye quoted Mrs. Arroyo as saying to Bush: "Passed into law, this will be a profound gesture reflective of the deep and abiding relations between the Philippines and the United States and the Filipino and American peoples' shared commitment to uphold the values of democracy and justice for all."
The presidential spokesman said Mrs. Arroyo also stressed the importance of the passage of the bills to the Filipinos, adding that signing them into law will end the decade-long struggle of Filipino veterans to be recognized for their contributions during World War II, according to Bunye.
The Filipino Veterans Equity Act, which was sponsored by Rep. Bob Filner, chairman of US House veterans affairs committee, is a stand-alone bill specifically intended to cover benefits for Filipino veterans.
As a stand-alone bill, the House version provides more benefits specifically for Filipino veterans, Bunye added.
The Veterans Benefits Enhancement Act of 2007, on the other hand, was introduced by Sen. Daniel Akaka, chairman of the US Senate veterans affairs committee. The measure is an omnibus veterans' bill covering benefits for all US veterans.
The press secretary said Akaka put to a committee vote his bill after he realized that "the Senate version of a stand-alone measure for Filipinos veterans would not have enough support in the Senate."
Bunye said about 18,500 Filipino veterans will be benefited if the bills are passed into law. About 6,000 Filipino veterans are now living in the US while 12,000 of them are in the Philippines.
-----------------------------
III. Contribute to Samahang e-mails
Send contributions to samahang@ucla.edu.
Messages received before 10PM Sunday nights will be included in the following week's mass email.
Labels: weekly e-mails
Breaking News From the United States Student Association!
September 7, 2007
College Students Celebrate Congress' Financial Aid Hike
Bill Increases Pell Grant, Reduces Student Loan Debt for Public Service Sector Graduates
Following student loan industry abuses and egregious tuition increases, college students finally see hope for a better future. Today, Congress passed the largest overhaul of federal financial aid in decades.
The United States Student Association, America's foremost student advocacy group, and the University of California, Los Angeles mobilized students on campuses across the country, to call and remind Congress to honor their promise to the next generation.
This victory is due, in large part, to the persistent advocacy of student leaders across the country who see education as a way to strengthen democracy, boost our economy and make real the promise of America.
This landmark bill significantly boosts the Pell grant to $5,400 offering a way for working class families to afford college and access the American Dream.
"This is a good first step in making higher education more accessible but public institutions are still in a state of crisis," says USSA President Gabriel Pendas. "We look forward to working with our federal and state elected officials to make higher education accessible for every working family."
This is also a good start to healing public trust in the student loan industry.
Student debt limits options for thousands of college graduates every year. The average American graduates from college with nearly $20,000 in debt. Recent student loan scandals have scarred hardworking students and their families. The College Cost Reduction Act offers a partial solution to the current student loan crisis.
The Senate passed the College Cost Reduction Act by a vote of 79-12 and the House passed the bill by a vote of 292-97.
Founded in 1947, The United States Student Association is the country's oldest and largest student organization. If you have any questions, or need any additional help just call us in the USSA office at (202) 637-3924 or visit the new USSA website at www.usstudents.org. Thank you for all of your hard work yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
CA Dream Act Update!
Dear Students and CA Dream Act Supporters,
Quick Update: Since our visit to the State Capitol there have been many changes. The communication with the District and Capitol of office of both Speaker Nunez and Senator Cedillo has been open and helpful. Both the Speaker and the Senator's office have been open to the questions and concerns that students have regarding this bill.
There have been many talks and much action. Since the last update this is where we are:
The California Dream Act is now SB1
The bill SB1 Office of Immigration Affairs (Cedillo), has been amended and now holds the language of the CA Dream Act.
The bill will be authored by Senator Cedillo, with principal co-authorship by Speaker Nunez with all of the co-authors from the previous CA Dream Act bills.
The bill is currently being amended and written into SB1, the bill should be up for public view by this coming Monday.
Both offices has pledged their full support and have stated that they are committed to sending this bill to the Governor's desk.
Speaker Nunez's office has stated that future actions within the Board of Trustees and UC Regents office will be discussed further.
With that said, some of the CA Dream Acts components have been removed, and will be introduced as clean-up bills next session. The reason for this procedure was to accommodate some concerns the Governor's office may have, and to improve the likely hood of the bill's success in the Governor's office. It is important to consider that just like AB540 set precedent for the CA Dream Act, the CA Dream Act can set precedent for these future bills next session.
Thank You for your continuous support, and get ready because now our job is to get the Governor to sign the bill.
--Posted on behalf of
Gregory Cendana
Outreach Officer
United States Student Association
Email: ussaoutreach@gmail.com
Website: http://www.usstudents.org
Cell: 916-284-9839
Made in L.A. - Watch it on KCET this Sunday, Sept. 9th at 10:30 PM!
Hello Garment Worker Center friends!
Just wanted to share some recent good news for the GWC.
The film Made in LA that features our workers and staff is finally out and will be aired on public television this week. Many of you have seen the short video we show for presentations. The film is a much more in depth look at the workers' experience and development as leaders.
It has different airing times depending on where you are in the country, but the Los Angeles showing time is this coming Sunday September 9th at 10:30pm on KCET. We will soon be able to sell copies of the movie as well.
The New York Times also just reviewed the film, which you can read here. Check the Made in LA website, www.madeinla.com, for more information.
We hope you can catch the film this weekend (set your Tivo's and DVR's!) and be inspired to send a donation into the GWC. You can go to our website and donate through paypal or send a check to us at:
Garment Worker Center
1250 S. Los Angeles St #213
Los Angeles CA 90015
Thanks for your time. Call us if you have any questions, 213-748-5866.
Hope you can catch it on TV!
Here is a text version of the New York Times review:
September 4, 2007
Television Review | 'Made in L.A.'
When a Fight for More Money Is Also a Battle for Dignity
By ANDY WEBSTER
Labor protest is not dead. Nor is it futile, according to "Made in L.A.," an excellent documentary tonight on the PBS anthology series "P.O.V." How many times have we heard about the need for labor to organize when corporate masters place intolerable demands on their employees? Well, here it happens again, and the lesson bears repeating.
Though the film depicts a long and arduous campaign conducted by workers, many of "undocumented" status, in the Los Angeles garment industry, it is not so much about illegal immigration and its consequences. Congress may not be able to decide how to process the nation's illegal immigrants, but the film understands that they're simply here, an integral component of the economy. Rather, the documentary is about basic human dignity.
As its focus "Made in L.A." follows three women. Maura Colorado is from El Salvador, having left her country and three children 18 years ago to work in the United States. Maria Pineda, from Mexico, is a loving, married mother of three. Guadalupe Hernandez, a feisty single woman also from Mexico, left six brothers and an abusive father to join her sister in Los Angeles.
In 2001 they joined the Garment Worker Center, a nonprofit advocacy group, to report their long hours, lack of compensation and wretched conditions at a clothing factory. It becomes clear that that the garments they've been producing are for one company, Forever 21. The center decides to sue for overtime and unpaid wages, and three years of picketing and boycotting follow.
The Worker Center's leaders - Joann Lo and Kimi Lee, its director - are cleareyed, determined and inspiring. But their suit is thrown out of court. Such obstacles are not without cost; at one point Ms. Lo talks about the strain and moments of self-doubt.
When the group wins, on appeal, the right to resume its suit, Forever 21 agrees to go to the bargaining table. Regrettably, two crucial players did not talk to the filmmakers: Do Won Chang, the president of Forever 21, and Ms. Pineda's husband, an alcoholic who discourages her from participating in the campaign.
Throughout the protest the three women evolve and find self-respect. Ms. Pineda separates from her husband to bring up their children alone. (They later reconciled, when he became sober.) Ms. Colorado, who loses touch with her kids for a while, is reunited with a son, if not in person. Ms. Hernandez finds a larger mission: Having been hired by the Workers Center, she takes a trip to the Lower East Side Tenement Museum and Ellis Island in New York and acquires a sense of the historical recurrence of their plight. Eventually she takes her message to Hong Kong and the World Trade Organization. Despite the American outsourcing of jobs (a threat that Ms. Colorado acknowledges on camera), her battle has just begun.
P.O.V.
Made in L.A.
On most PBS stations tonight (check local listings).
A film by Almudena Carracedo and Robert Bahar.
Television Review | 'Made in L.A.'
When a Fight for More Money Is Also a Battle for Dignity
By ANDY WEBSTER
Labor protest is not dead. Nor is it futile, according to "Made in L.A.," an excellent documentary tonight on the PBS anthology series "P.O.V." How many times have we heard about the need for labor to organize when corporate masters place intolerable demands on their employees? Well, here it happens again, and the lesson bears repeating.
Though the film depicts a long and arduous campaign conducted by workers, many of "undocumented" status, in the Los Angeles garment industry, it is not so much about illegal immigration and its consequences. Congress may not be able to decide how to process the nation's illegal immigrants, but the film understands that they're simply here, an integral component of the economy. Rather, the documentary is about basic human dignity.
As its focus "Made in L.A." follows three women. Maura Colorado is from El Salvador, having left her country and three children 18 years ago to work in the United States. Maria Pineda, from Mexico, is a loving, married mother of three. Guadalupe Hernandez, a feisty single woman also from Mexico, left six brothers and an abusive father to join her sister in Los Angeles.
In 2001 they joined the Garment Worker Center, a nonprofit advocacy group, to report their long hours, lack of compensation and wretched conditions at a clothing factory. It becomes clear that that the garments they've been producing are for one company, Forever 21. The center decides to sue for overtime and unpaid wages, and three years of picketing and boycotting follow.
The Worker Center's leaders - Joann Lo and Kimi Lee, its director - are cleareyed, determined and inspiring. But their suit is thrown out of court. Such obstacles are not without cost; at one point Ms. Lo talks about the strain and moments of self-doubt.
When the group wins, on appeal, the right to resume its suit, Forever 21 agrees to go to the bargaining table. Regrettably, two crucial players did not talk to the filmmakers: Do Won Chang, the president of Forever 21, and Ms. Pineda's husband, an alcoholic who discourages her from participating in the campaign.
Throughout the protest the three women evolve and find self-respect. Ms. Pineda separates from her husband to bring up their children alone. (They later reconciled, when he became sober.) Ms. Colorado, who loses touch with her kids for a while, is reunited with a son, if not in person. Ms. Hernandez finds a larger mission: Having been hired by the Workers Center, she takes a trip to the Lower East Side Tenement Museum and Ellis Island in New York and acquires a sense of the historical recurrence of their plight. Eventually she takes her message to Hong Kong and the World Trade Organization. Despite the American outsourcing of jobs (a threat that Ms. Colorado acknowledges on camera), her battle has just begun.
P.O.V.
Made in L.A.
On most PBS stations tonight (check local listings).
A film by Almudena Carracedo and Robert Bahar.
Deadline has been extended for System-Wide Committees and Special Committees!
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2007
PRESS CONTACTS
Oiyan Poon: UCSA President, 510.384.6445
Jennifer Knox: UCSA Organizing Director, 510.834.8272
Ray Austin: UCSA University Affairs Director, 510.834.8272
September 7, 2007
PRESS CONTACTS
Oiyan Poon: UCSA President, 510.384.6445
Jennifer Knox: UCSA Organizing Director, 510.834.8272
Ray Austin: UCSA University Affairs Director, 510.834.8272
UC Students Invited to Participate in Selection of Next UC President
UCSA Seeks Undergraduate, Graduate and Professional Students to Represent Student Perspectives on Several UC-wide Standing and Special Committees
OAKLAND, Calif., September 7, 2007 — The University of California Student Association (UCSA) seeks student representatives for several UC-wide Standing Committees, as part of the University commitment to Shared Governance, for the 2007-08 academic year. The committees with openings for student representatives are:
- Student Advisory Committee for the Appointment of the President of the University of California;
- UC Student Mental Health Oversight Committee;
- UC Undergraduate Experience Survey (UCUES);
- Committee on Trademark Licenses; (2 Students)
- Informational Technology and Telecommunications; (1 Graduate student)
- International Education (formerly Education Abroad); (1 Graduate student)
- Library; (1 Graduate student)
- Undergraduate Preparatory Education; (1 Undergraduate student)
- University Committee on Research and Policy; (1 Graduate student)
- Competitive Graduate Student Financial Support Committee; (1 Professional Student)
- California Student Aid Loan Advisory Committee; (1 Student)
- UC-California Community College Transfer Advisory Board. (1 Undergraduate student, who is a community college transfer)
"I am confident we will get a diverse pool of vocal and assertive students applying for these important committees, so that UC students can be assured that their concerns are addressed within these policymaking groups," stated Oiyan Poon, UCSA President. The principle of Shared Governance allows students to participate in the system-wide policymaking process with faculty and administrators throughout the UC system. While meetings are held at various campuses throughout the state, recognizing the importance of student participation, the UC Office of the President generously supports the travel expenses for student members of these committees.
The deadline for applications has been extended to 5 p.m., Thursday, September 13, 2007. The online application can be found at: http://www.ucsa.org/involved
With UC President Dynes' decision to resign the UC presidency, Regents Chairman Blum has appointed a Special Committee to Consider the Selection of a President, which will seek advisement from a Student Advisory Committee (SAC). As stipulated by the Policy on Appointment of the President of the University California, the President of UCSA will serve as chair of the SAC. Louise Hendrickson, Chair of the UCSA Board of Directors, will serve as Vice Chair of the SAC. Together Poon, Hendrickson, and Danny Montes, UCSA Secretary and Finance Officer, will consider applications for this committee, and provide the UCSA Board of Directors with their recommended appointments. Each UC campus will have one representative on the SAC. In total, the SAC will have 12 members. "We are committed to appointing a diverse group of students, representing graduate, professional, and undergraduate students from all backgrounds," said Hendrickson. Montes added, "All of these committees are very important. Students must be actively engaged in the policymaking process of the University."
The UCSA Board of Directors will vote to finalize the membership of the SAC at its September Board meeting at UC Davis. At this meeting, UCSA will also make appointments for student representatives to the eleven other committees. To see detailed descriptions of these committees, with the exception of the Student Advisory Committee for the Appointment of the President, Mental Health, and UCUES, please refer to: http://www.asucm.org/get
*****
UCSA is a coalition of students and student governments that aims to provide a collective voice for all students through advocacy and direct action. UCSA participates in the shared governance of the University of California system, and seeks to advance higher education by empowering current and future students to advocate on their own behalf for the accessibility, affordability, and quality of the University of California system.
Jennifer Knox
Organizing & Communications Director
UC Student Association (UCSA)
510.834.8272 |510.834.8286 fax
www.ucsa.org
USAC Presidential Appointments Reopened!
Hey everyone,
Here is the link to the USAC Presidential Appointments Application:
http://students.asucla.ucla
The application reopened with a ASAP/rolling deadline. Please forward to your general membership/staffs. Here are some open positions:
-ASUCLA Communications Board
-Chancellor's Enrollment Advisory Committee
-Election Board Chair
-Financial Aid Policy Committee
-Student Activities Center Board of Governors
-Transportation Services Advisory Board
-AND MANY MORE! :)
Please let me know if you have any questions, comments or concerns!
Posted on behalf of
Gregory Cendana
Undergraduate
University of California, Los Angeles
Email: gregory.cendana@gmail.com
Cell: 916-284-9839
Samahang @ FPAC!
September 4, 2007
16th Annual Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture
Theme for this year: "Handog"/Offering
When: Sept 8 and 9, 10am to 6pm (on both days)
Where: San Pedro, Ca. (Pt. Fermin Park)
WHO???...
...SAMAHANG PILIPINO!
This weekend is the Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture and Samahang Pilipino will be spending the last days of Summer with the community enjoying the music, the art, and the culture. Come and join us. Admission is $5. Parking is FREE! Email communityprojects@samahang.org if you're here in LA for the Summer and you need a ride (I'm sure BOARD members can accomodate ; ]...). Salamat sa inyong lahat!!!
For more info on the festival, go to: www.filamarts.org
This weekend is the Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture and Samahang Pilipino will be spending the last days of Summer with the community enjoying the music, the art, and the culture. Come and join us. Admission is $5. Parking is FREE! Email communityprojects@samahang.org if you're here in LA for the Summer and you need a ride (I'm sure BOARD members can accomodate ; ]...). Salamat sa inyong lahat!!!
For more info on the festival, go to: www.filamarts.org
Labels: FPAC
Samahang Pilipino Week 11
September 3, 2007
I. JFAV Presents...
II. Support the DREAM Act!
III. Pilipino Scholars' Day 2007
IV. Filipina gets $125K in lawsuit
----------------------------------------------------------
I. JFAV Presents...
Remember: A Re-enactment of the Bataan Death March
Sunday, September 9th, 2007 at 2:00 PM
at The Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC)
Point Fermin
807 W Paseo Del mar
San Pedro, CA
Admission is $5.00 per day. Support Fil-Am Arts and help keep events
like FPAC alive!!
Join us at FPAC in commemorating the sacrifices Filipino veterans have
made in the name of freedom, and help us remind everyone that justice
and equity for these veterans are still long overdue!
We need volunteers to play the roles of:
Filipino and American soldiers
Civilians
as well as folks to help with crowd control, and to work the JFAV booth.
If you plan on being a part of this re-enactment, please bring costumes,
as we will have a limited amount of attire at the festival.
Filipino and American soldiers: brown shorts, white shirts, and/or
camo/fatigues, as well as bandages
Civilians: native attire, or plain clothes are fine
ALSO, We will be having a work meeting to put together props and signs on
Wednesday, September 5th, at 7:00 PM
at SIPA
3200 W. Temple St.
Historic Filipinotown
Los Angeles, CA 90026
For more information, please contact Michael Nailat at (213) 382-1819
x109 or at mnailat@esipa.org.
THANK YOU!!!!
----------------------------------------------------------
II. Support the DREAM Act!
As Pilipinos, we sometimes take for granted our status here in America. However what many don't know is that there are thousands of undocumented Pilipinos in the U.S. today.
Because our orgs. support and promote higher education, equal human rights and the betterment of the image and treatment of our people please support the Dream Act. If you are unfamiliar with the current Legislation, the Dream Act will allow undocumented students (MANY being here since early childhood) who have graduated a chance to practice their degrees and contribute back to the American society by becoming residents. These students pay to be like any other student, contribute to science, research and community organizing, yet cannot reap the fruits of their labor.
Hear are a few reasons why you should support the act...
Coming from a former SPEAR Counselor and Outreach Coordinator of PTSP, I have worked with and come across many students who are undocumented. These very people, are in your organizations, they are in Samahang, some are transfers, others go to high schools that Bayanihan, SPACE and PREP both outreach to, and yes they are Women, Men, Queers, Engineering majors, Singers and graduate students as well! Why don't you know this? People are too embarrassed to share this highly infamous and threatening issue. But if your organizations are truly their for the Pilipino students at UCLA, you will show that you are in some way familiar with the issue and that you can help them even if it is just signing a petition or calling your house representatives and simply stating that you support the California and Federal Dream Act.
The issue and presence of ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS is not a "Latino Problem" it is a struggle that many other communities face as well.
If you feel as if you need to be educated more on this issue please feel free to contact me, IDEAS @ UCLA or the Labor and Workplace Studies Department @ UCLA! I really want the Pilipino community to show their support because we and the greater AAPI community are the lease versed with the issue and quite frankly we need to educate ourselves so we may join the fight for the right reasons. I can't tell you how much this is an important issue to our community but if your orgs are truly community organizers then you will make the effort to support the campaign on the DREAM ACT! Thank you very much!
Please sign the petition and learn more about the current legislation!
http://www.gopetition.com/online/13970.html
With great respect,
Alyssa Jane M. Titong
UCLA Labor Center Intern
----------------------------------------------------------
III. Pilipino Scholars' Day 2007
Hello, everyone! My name is Randy Bautista, and I am the Academic Supports Director for the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Association. I'm excited to tell you that we are bringing back the Pilipino Scholars' Day Celebration this October! For those of you who don't know, Pilipino Scholars Day is meant to celebrate Pilipinos with advanced degrees, are in the process of attaining their advanced degrees, and/or researching/teaching subjects about Pilipinos. The first Pilipino Scholars Day in 2005 was a tremendous success, and we want to follow that spirit for this year.
I am still gathering ideas as to the format for this year's program, so I have a short questionnaire for you to fill out. Please send your responses as soon as possible to rundmb@gmail.com. Also, any contributions, big and small, are welcome, so if there's any way you feel you can help out, by all means contact me. Generosity was a big reason why our first event was a great success, and will no doubt be a major factor for this year.
Thank you everyone for your help. And make sure to look out for updates as we get closer to this great event!
Sincerely,
Randy
******************************************************************
Name:
What's your role at UCLA ?(ex: undergrad, faculty, alum, etc.)
1) Did you attend Pilipino Scholars' Day in 2005? If so, what did you think of the event, and are there any things you would like to change for this year's event? If were not around for the event in 2005, what would you like to see in this year's celebration?
2) Logistics: Would you prefer a large event, or an intimate one? Morning, afternoon, or evening? Where would be an ideal venue?
3) Please place an "(X)" on the level of involvement you can contribute to Pilipino Scholars' Day:
() None
() Volunteer (Day of Event)
() Planning Committee Member
3a) If you are able to join the Planning Committee, please place an "(X)" next to the challenges would you like to tackle?
() Designing/printing the program
() Soliciting donations
() Finding a caterer
() Publicity
() Other _____________________________________________________
4) Any additional comments?
----------------------------------------------------------
IV. Filipina gets $125K in lawsuit
Yong B. Chavez, Aug 22, 2007
LOS ANGELES -- Ruby De Vera, a former Los Angeles councilman office manager was awarded a $125,000 settlement last week by the City of L. A. after she alleged in a lawsuit that her former boss fired her because she ran for office against a candidate he was endorsing.
"It's a victory for our Filipino community," said De Vera.
Philippine News ran a story about her firing in 2005 where De Vera related what her boss, Councilman Ed Reyes, gave as a reason for her firing.
"He just told me I embarrassed him when I ran for office," De Vera said at the time.
In 2005, De Vera was working as Reyes' office manager when she ran for the City Council's 14th District, an area where many Filipinos reside. She came in third among 12 candidates. A candidate that Reyes was backing won the seat.
Elected officials in Los Angeles can hire and fire at will without dealing with civil service requirements but Reyes' council colleagues reportedly voted 9 to 2 to settle the case. Without the settlement, the case would go to court and Reyes and possibly other council members would probably have to testify.
De Vera had been working for the City for about 10 years. After her firing, De Vera went to work as a clerk/typist at the City controller's office.
In her lawsuit, De Vera asked for compensatory, injunctive and punitive damages for, among other reasons, labor code violations and discrimination based on race/ethnic origin.
Her legal filing, posted on a prominent Los Angeles political blogsite, also mentioned that "throughout her employment with the city, Plaintiff had always performed her duties competently, received favorable performance evaluations, and maintained an unblemished work history.
Plaintiff was terminated not only because of her political activities and affiliations, but also because of her race (Filipino). Defendants treated non-Filipinos more favorably by, among others, paying them higher salaries despite holding the same or less senior position than Plaintiff. Plaintiff was also terminated because she was a visible and vocal member of the Filipino community, and was involved with various activities which supported the Filipino community."
Source: www.philippinenews.com
II. Support the DREAM Act!
III. Pilipino Scholars' Day 2007
IV. Filipina gets $125K in lawsuit
----------------------------------------------------------
I. JFAV Presents...
Remember: A Re-enactment of the Bataan Death March
Sunday, September 9th, 2007 at 2:00 PM
at The Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC)
Point Fermin
807 W Paseo Del mar
San Pedro, CA
Admission is $5.00 per day. Support Fil-Am Arts and help keep events
like FPAC alive!!
Join us at FPAC in commemorating the sacrifices Filipino veterans have
made in the name of freedom, and help us remind everyone that justice
and equity for these veterans are still long overdue!
We need volunteers to play the roles of:
Filipino and American soldiers
Civilians
as well as folks to help with crowd control, and to work the JFAV booth.
If you plan on being a part of this re-enactment, please bring costumes,
as we will have a limited amount of attire at the festival.
Filipino and American soldiers: brown shorts, white shirts, and/or
camo/fatigues, as well as bandages
Civilians: native attire, or plain clothes are fine
ALSO, We will be having a work meeting to put together props and signs on
Wednesday, September 5th, at 7:00 PM
at SIPA
3200 W. Temple St.
Historic Filipinotown
Los Angeles, CA 90026
For more information, please contact Michael Nailat at (213) 382-1819
x109 or at mnailat@esipa.org.
THANK YOU!!!!
----------------------------------------------------------
II. Support the DREAM Act!
As Pilipinos, we sometimes take for granted our status here in America. However what many don't know is that there are thousands of undocumented Pilipinos in the U.S. today.
Because our orgs. support and promote higher education, equal human rights and the betterment of the image and treatment of our people please support the Dream Act. If you are unfamiliar with the current Legislation, the Dream Act will allow undocumented students (MANY being here since early childhood) who have graduated a chance to practice their degrees and contribute back to the American society by becoming residents. These students pay to be like any other student, contribute to science, research and community organizing, yet cannot reap the fruits of their labor.
Hear are a few reasons why you should support the act...
Coming from a former SPEAR Counselor and Outreach Coordinator of PTSP, I have worked with and come across many students who are undocumented. These very people, are in your organizations, they are in Samahang, some are transfers, others go to high schools that Bayanihan, SPACE and PREP both outreach to, and yes they are Women, Men, Queers, Engineering majors, Singers and graduate students as well! Why don't you know this? People are too embarrassed to share this highly infamous and threatening issue. But if your organizations are truly their for the Pilipino students at UCLA, you will show that you are in some way familiar with the issue and that you can help them even if it is just signing a petition or calling your house representatives and simply stating that you support the California and Federal Dream Act.
The issue and presence of ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS is not a "Latino Problem" it is a struggle that many other communities face as well.
If you feel as if you need to be educated more on this issue please feel free to contact me, IDEAS @ UCLA or the Labor and Workplace Studies Department @ UCLA! I really want the Pilipino community to show their support because we and the greater AAPI community are the lease versed with the issue and quite frankly we need to educate ourselves so we may join the fight for the right reasons. I can't tell you how much this is an important issue to our community but if your orgs are truly community organizers then you will make the effort to support the campaign on the DREAM ACT! Thank you very much!
Please sign the petition and learn more about the current legislation!
http://www.gopetition.com/online/13970.html
With great respect,
Alyssa Jane M. Titong
UCLA Labor Center Intern
----------------------------------------------------------
III. Pilipino Scholars' Day 2007
Hello, everyone! My name is Randy Bautista, and I am the Academic Supports Director for the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Association. I'm excited to tell you that we are bringing back the Pilipino Scholars' Day Celebration this October! For those of you who don't know, Pilipino Scholars Day is meant to celebrate Pilipinos with advanced degrees, are in the process of attaining their advanced degrees, and/or researching/teaching subjects about Pilipinos. The first Pilipino Scholars Day in 2005 was a tremendous success, and we want to follow that spirit for this year.
I am still gathering ideas as to the format for this year's program, so I have a short questionnaire for you to fill out. Please send your responses as soon as possible to rundmb@gmail.com. Also, any contributions, big and small, are welcome, so if there's any way you feel you can help out, by all means contact me. Generosity was a big reason why our first event was a great success, and will no doubt be a major factor for this year.
Thank you everyone for your help. And make sure to look out for updates as we get closer to this great event!
Sincerely,
Randy
******************************************************************
Name:
What's your role at UCLA ?(ex: undergrad, faculty, alum, etc.)
1) Did you attend Pilipino Scholars' Day in 2005? If so, what did you think of the event, and are there any things you would like to change for this year's event? If were not around for the event in 2005, what would you like to see in this year's celebration?
2) Logistics: Would you prefer a large event, or an intimate one? Morning, afternoon, or evening? Where would be an ideal venue?
3) Please place an "(X)" on the level of involvement you can contribute to Pilipino Scholars' Day:
() None
() Volunteer (Day of Event)
() Planning Committee Member
3a) If you are able to join the Planning Committee, please place an "(X)" next to the challenges would you like to tackle?
() Designing/printing the program
() Soliciting donations
() Finding a caterer
() Publicity
() Other _____________________________________________________
4) Any additional comments?
----------------------------------------------------------
IV. Filipina gets $125K in lawsuit
Yong B. Chavez, Aug 22, 2007
LOS ANGELES -- Ruby De Vera, a former Los Angeles councilman office manager was awarded a $125,000 settlement last week by the City of L. A. after she alleged in a lawsuit that her former boss fired her because she ran for office against a candidate he was endorsing.
"It's a victory for our Filipino community," said De Vera.
Philippine News ran a story about her firing in 2005 where De Vera related what her boss, Councilman Ed Reyes, gave as a reason for her firing.
"He just told me I embarrassed him when I ran for office," De Vera said at the time.
In 2005, De Vera was working as Reyes' office manager when she ran for the City Council's 14th District, an area where many Filipinos reside. She came in third among 12 candidates. A candidate that Reyes was backing won the seat.
Elected officials in Los Angeles can hire and fire at will without dealing with civil service requirements but Reyes' council colleagues reportedly voted 9 to 2 to settle the case. Without the settlement, the case would go to court and Reyes and possibly other council members would probably have to testify.
De Vera had been working for the City for about 10 years. After her firing, De Vera went to work as a clerk/typist at the City controller's office.
In her lawsuit, De Vera asked for compensatory, injunctive and punitive damages for, among other reasons, labor code violations and discrimination based on race/ethnic origin.
Her legal filing, posted on a prominent Los Angeles political blogsite, also mentioned that "throughout her employment with the city, Plaintiff had always performed her duties competently, received favorable performance evaluations, and maintained an unblemished work history.
Plaintiff was terminated not only because of her political activities and affiliations, but also because of her race (Filipino). Defendants treated non-Filipinos more favorably by, among others, paying them higher salaries despite holding the same or less senior position than Plaintiff. Plaintiff was also terminated because she was a visible and vocal member of the Filipino community, and was involved with various activities which supported the Filipino community."
Source: www.philippinenews.com
Labels: weekly e-mails
