McCormick Place Convention CenterChicago, Illinois

5:12 P.M. CDTTHE VICE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon, NEA! Good afternoon! (Applause.)Oh, what a sight my eyes behold. I am so happy to be with you all this afternoon. I am so happy to be with you. And thank you for everything you do and everything you are. Thank you. (Applause.)And, Becky, thank you for being such an extraordinary leader in extraordinary times. (Applause.) Truly. Ive run into her in different places around the country, and she is always speaking about you and the importance of this organization and the importance of this organization to the future of our country. Thank you, Becky, for that introduction. Thank you. (Applause.)So, before I start with my address to you, I want to just briefly but importantly address the tragedy just miles away in Highland Park.As we all know, yesterday should have been a day to come together with family and friends to celebrate our nations independence. And instead, that community suffered a violent tragedy. Children, parents, grandparents victims to a senseless act of gun violence.And Doug, who is here with me, he and I of course, we mourn, as you do, for those who were killed. And we pray for those who were injured. And we all grieve, I know, for the lives that are forever changed in that community, including, of course, the students and the teachers of that community who have suffered great loss.And I dont need to tell NEA: We need to end this horror. We need to stop this violence. (Applause.)And we must protect our communities from the terror of gun violence. You know, Ive said it before: Enough is enough. (Applause.)I mean, here we are, and our nation is still mourning the loss of those 19 babies and their two teachers in Uvalde. This massacre was the most recent reminder in Uvalde of the risks that our children and our educators face every day.Teachers should not have to practice barricading a classroom. (Applause.) Teachers should not have to know how to treat a gunshot wound. (Applause.) And teachers should not be told that Lives would have been saved if only you had a gun. (Applause.)Now, we have made some progress. For the first time in 30 years, our President, Joe Biden, signed a federal gun safety bill. (Applause.) And it strengthens background checks, and it closes what we call the boyfriend loophole, and it includes funding for mental health services and school security.But we have more to do. We have more to do. (Applause.)And Congress needs to have the courage to act and renew the assault weapons ban. (Applause.)You know, Ill talk in a minute about how you as educators teach the children so much. And you teach the children, among many things, reason.So, lets talk about what an assault weapon is designed to do. An assault weapon is designed to kill a lot of human beings quickly. There is no reason that we have weapons of war on the streets of America. We need reasonable gun safety laws! (Applause.)And we need to have Congress stop protecting those gun manufacturers with the liability shield. Repeal it! Repeal it! (Applause.)So we cannot be deterred. We know we have challenges. We cannot be deterred.And, NEA, we will not give up this fight. We will not tire because I know who you are; that is just not in our nature. (Applause.)And that, NEA, is why I am so honored to be here with you because I do know this room. This is a room of fighters. And I know (applause) how deeply personal this work is to each one of you.As an educator, your work doesnt stop at the end of the day when you walk out of your school. Your work is full-time. (Applause.) I know that.Students come to your classroom before the day starts for help with homework; sometimes with an empty stomach that you feed (applause); or just to have someone they trust to talk with. (Applause.) Your students look to you to tell them everything is going to be okay, even sometimes when you may not be sure.But you continue to show up. And that is why the President and I are honored to partner with the NEA to build our nations leaders. (Applause.)And as a personal point of pride for all of us to have an educator and one of your active members in the White House as First Lady (laughs) (applause) Dr. Jill Biden. Yes. (Applause.)And I can tell you so I sometimes see her in a different situation than you might, and let me just tell you something. I have watched her go from the classroom directly to events at the White House or across the country and around the world, grading papers in between. (Applause.) So, like you, she is a remarkable educator who inspires us all.NEA, who you are and what you do is also personal to me. Ive shared with some of you: My first-grade teacher, Mrs.Frances Wilson God rest her soul attended my law school graduation. (Applause.) And there are many people who have contributed to me to be able to serve as the first woman Vice President of the United States (applause) but Im going to tell you, Mrs. Wilson was one of the earliest. (Applause.)So, you all, you not only shape lives, but you also shape policies.And we heard you when we took office when you told us about the issues that matter most to you and your students.We heard you when you told us about the fear and the uncertainty that you faced during the pandemic and about the extra help children needed once they returned to the classroom. So, with your help, we directed over $120 billion to our nations schools through the American Rescue Plan with your help. (Applause.)And this funding also led to a new initiative, launched just today, to help students who fell behind during the pandemic, which means 250,000 tutors and mentors across the country will be in schools to give students the support they need and to support your work every day. (Applause.)We also heard you when you said your buildings are falling apart that the school buildings are falling apart. (Applause.) We heard you that air conditioners were broken in the summer heat. We heard you when you said too many of our children drink water poisoned with lead and breathe dangerous fumes from their bus ride to school. (Applause.)We heard you when you said your students cannot do their homework because they cannot afford nor do they have access to be able to get online. (Applause.)So we passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and it will repair aging school infrastructure to save schools money. It will replace lead pipes in 400,000 schools and childcare facilities across the country (applause) so that our children can drink clean water. It will electrify our nations school buses so children can have clean air to breathe. (Applause.) It will make high-speed Internet accessible and affordable to every American household.And this will happen because of your support and your leadership. Thank you, NEA. (Applause.)And we still have more to do, and we have so much to do together.NEA, you are extraordinarily effective as a group advocate for change, which is why we know that you have been able to see the success you have achieved. And it is no surprise why, because we know unions know how to organize. (Applause.)I say all over the country: You may not be a member of a union, but you better thank the union for the five-day work week and weekends, paid leave. (Applause.)And I often meet and its I know you do, and many are here I often meet with young organizers from around the country. And whats exciting is that we are seeing in a new, younger generation that they want the benefits and the protections that come from joining a union. (Applause.) They want it. They want it. Because they know what we all know: Unions give workers a voice. (Applause.)And so, this is an historic moment, I think, for the labor movement. Today, unions have their highest approval rating since 1965. (Applause.) About half of all non-union workers say they would join a union if given the chance. That is almost 60 million people. (Applause.) Think about that.But we also know there are obstacles for them to meet that desire. And we know what it is. One is that many people still dont know how to join a union, and so thats part of the work we have ahead is to continue to remind them about how. But even if they do know how, we also know, across our country, folks face barriers that have been built up over the years by corporate interests and anti-union politicians and regressive court cases. (Applause.)Ive fought many of those cases when I was Attorney General of California, so we know the obstacles are there. (Applause.)California is in the house. (Laughs.) (Applause.)And so, our administration, together with you, we are all doing a lot to tear down those barriers.And Ill tell you, Im very proud to lead the White House Task Force on Worker Organizing and Empowerment, along with my good friend our good friend Secretary Marty Walsh. And (applause) from Massachusetts.And our President, Joe Biden, accepted all of our 70 proposals to make it easier for workers to organize. And heres the significance of that: It relates to federal workers, but the federal workforce is actually the federal government is largest employer in the country. And so, when you think about it, as we adopt the recommendations to make it easier for federal workers to organize, you will point to all of that to say, If it can happen there, it can happen here. (Applause.)And there is more to do.So, we are looking at the fact that the President and I are determined to lead not only the most pro-union administration in American history but to move our country forward.We are determined to fight for a future where a teachers wage can provide for a family. (Applause.) Because I know it is still the case that some of you are working two jobs. (Applause.) Some maybe even three. I know that.We are determined to fight for a future where you never again have to spend your own money on school supplies to meet your students needs. (Applause.)We will fight for a future where teachers can educate our children with the resources, with the safety, and the respect that you deserve. (Applause.)Because we are clear: When we do that, we can be sure that every child can reach their God-given potential. (Applause.)So, these are the values that our administration stands for. And I think, when it comes down to it, its basically this: When you know what you stand for, you know what to fight for. (Applause.)And so much of what we just got through talking about is what extremist so-called leaders stand against.Since our administration has started, not one Republican leader in Washington voted to rescue our nation in the middle of a pandemic, including when we proposed resources for our children and our educators.Not one Republican leader in Washington, D.C., voted to extend the Child Tax Credit, which helps the poorest students and their families.Instead, these extremist so-called leaders fought against raising your pay.Instead, these extremist so-called leaders refuse to keep assault weapons off our streets and out of our classrooms and tried to silence your voice through your union.And instead, these so-called leaders have tried to make you pawns of their political agenda.Because while you work hard to inspire the dreams and ambitions of our next generation, they dare question your dedication, your motivation, and your value.While you work hard (applause) while you work hard to teach the principles of liberty and freedom in your classroom, these so-called leaders are taking freedoms away (applause): freedom away from women and the freedom to make decisions over their own bodies (applause); freedom away from a kindergarten-to-third-grade teacher in Florida to love openly and with pride (applause); and away from every American as they intentionally try to make it more difficult for folks to vote. (Applause.)We are 126 days away from an election, and we all know what we need to do. (Applause.) And, you know, I also think Im speaking to a group of educators I also think that these extremist so-called leaders need to attend a civics lesson. (Laughs.) (Applause.)I think I actually think it would benefit us all if they sat in your classroom for a few days to remember how a democracy works (applause); to remember what freedoms stands for; and to remember what jobs they were elected to do. (Applause.)All that to say that, as educators, you know, we all know that history has never been an unbroken line toward progress; that even when we have advances, there will be setbacks. In certain times, those setbacks being more drastic than in others. This is one of those moments, but we will not be deterred.The President and I are counting on you to help us move forward as a nation, just as NEA has done throughout its history. Because I remember that this organization fought to lower the voting age to 18. (Applause.) I remember that this organization fought to protect Black teachers from school districts that defied desegregation orders. (Applause.) I remember that this was the organization that stood with others to fight to pass DACA and ensure undocumented people can learn in our communities. (Applause.)Again and again, you have been champions of social justice. And it is clear: Educators are a central part, then, of moving our nation forward. You are not only essential to our childrens future. Im here to share with you: You, I believe, are essential to the future of our democracy. (Applause.)So, we will do this work together because, NEA, when we look at where we are, we know that NEA has always been a powerful force a powerful force whose members understand the power of unity.So, these may be difficult times. And I know that at the end of this convening, you will each go back to your home district; you will go back and you will spend long evenings and nights preparing for the next day; you will go back and often be in a situation where it feels kind of like you might be the only one who sees what youre seeing and understands whats at stake. (Applause.)But lets remember moments like this. And let us remember that the fight toward progress by its very nature is not linear. Were going to have our ups; were going to have our downs.Lets remember I like to paraphrase all the time what Coretta Scott King said. She said: The fight for justice, the fight for civil rights, the fight for freedom, the fight for equality must be fought and won with each generation. And I think when she said that, she had two points in mind. One is that it is the very nature of what we stand for and, therefore, fight for that whatever gains we make will not be permanent.Theres so much strength in what we achieve, but there is also fragility. So, we must be vigilant. And the second point then being: If we understand thats the nature of it its not going to be permanent; it is fragile, unless we are vigilant its the nature of it, so do not despair. Do not be overwhelmed. Do not throw up our hands when it is a time to roll up our sleeves. (Applause.)Thank you, NEA. God bless you. God bless our education. And God bless the United States of America. Thank you all. (Applause.) END 5:38 P.M. CDT

Originally posted here:
Remarks by Vice President Harris at the National Education Association 2022 Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly - The White House

KANSAS CITY, Mo. As KSHB 41 News wraps up the month of June, we want to leave you with real stories of women who are often pushed to the side during Pride month and throughout the year - transgender women of color.

Statistically, they experience more violence than other members of the LGBTQ+ community, and too often their lives are cut short because of who they are.

With help from local organization Transformations KC, we spoke with three trans women who have endured hard times but transcended society's stereotypes to become leaders in the community.

Kelly Nou says she's gone through a lot in her life to be where she is today, living her truth and setting an example for young women like her.

"I'm still standing and you're still watching," Nou said.

Nou is a survivor, and she says this with a confidence and grit that comes with years of fighting.

"It's a lot of things we had to endure, like being bashed or being bullied and stuff and I'm just grateful to even be here just sitting here sharing my story, because a lot of my sisters in the past have not made it this far," Nou said.

Nou lives her life as visible advocate for her sisters in the trans community and a leader with Transformations KC, a group that works to uplift young trans people, specifically trans women of color.

"It's important because we're getting murdered every day, so it's best to allow us to have that voice," Nou said.

We met with Nou to shine light on her story, parts of which she says people would prefer to stay hidden. It's a story she shares with Treshawn Roberts and Monica DeJesus Anaya.

That story takes us to Troost Avenue and Manheim Road.

"It brings a lot of memories," Nou said

Nou and Roberts used to work Troost back in the day as sex workers. DeJesus Anaya worked in Chicago.

"Things have changed a lot, but the cars haven't," Nou said. "They're still coming."

As a car drove slowly past the intersection, DeJesus Anaya added, "As you can see right now!"

The girls laughed.

They were young, out trying to navigate a world that rejected them.

"My parents didn't understand trans," Nou said. "I knew I was a different kind of girl and my parents did not understand that."

So, Nou and many other young trans women found safety in each other.

Nou left her parents' house in her teens, seeking guidance from an older trans woman. Nou said there were multiple girls "shacked up" in a one or two bedroom apartment, just trying to get food, pay the rent, and keep the lights on.

At night, when "traffic would come swarming," they would come out to what's called the Hoe Stroll, Nou said.

"It would be 15 girls. It would be a few on each corner," Nou said. "It ranges from 34th & Armour and Troost & 43rd, which was a nail shop. We would work at night and, on the weekends, would go to the nail shop, and the nail shop people knew us."

The work did not come without dangers.

Roberts said they'd come out with crowbars and sledgehammers.

"Yes, baby, we had them hidden in the bushes," Roberts said. "'Because we used to drive and park our cars. So, we always had access because we knew what this was."

Nou said they had to protect themselves and their sisters.

"We'd look out for each other, try to make sure we get the description of the vehicle that our sister would go into," Nou said.

Survival sex work is often a part of the trans experience, rooted in discrimination.

"Jobs were not hiring us," Nou said. "Jobs were discriminating against us."

The National Center for Transgender Equality's most recent survey shows that one in eight trans people have done sex work. When you learn that trans people of color are three times more likely to be living in poverty than anyone else in the country and the unemployment rate for trans people of color is four times higher than the U.S. population - you see that sex work is something many resort to.

"And then when we did get employment, it was minimum wage. Not the minimum wage that we have in 2022, but the minimum wage we had in '98, '99, 2000. So, if you google the minimum wage, you will see why sex work was the next best thing," Roberts said. "I'm not ashamed of it, I'm proud of it."

Nou said one of the milestones in her life was when she decided to go to work in "full geish," which means dressed up in full wardrobe and makeup. Despite feeling liberated and fully herself, Nou said she ended up being fired from her job that day.

Walking the walk fiercely and unapologetically every day, these women say, will help pave the way for the next girl.

"Sharing our stories and our journeys literally keeps us trans women alive," DeJesus Anaya said.

Trans people, especially trans women of color, face violence more than anyone else. The survey shows many folks endured it at school and from their own family.

While the data isn't complete, we know at least 9 trans women and femme men have been murdered in Kansas City over the last 10 years.

Dee Dee Pearson was shot in killed in KCMO in 2011. Dionte Greene was shot and killed in KCMO in 2014. Jasmine Collins was stabbed to death in KCMO in 2015. Tamara Dominguez was killed after a man ran her over multiple times in KCMO in 2015. Ta'Ron "Rio" Carson was shot and killed in KCMO in 2018. Brooklyn Lindsey was shot and killed in KCMO in 2019. JaLeyah Berryman was shot and killed in KCK in 2019. Brianna Hill was shot and killed in KCMO in 2019. Aerrion Burnett was shot and killed in KCMO in 2020.

All of these victims are people of color, who see the highest rates of violence.

More trans women of color have been murdered in areas around Kansas City, including Reesey Walker, killed in Wichita in 2016; Nina Pop, killed in Sikeston, Missouri, in 2020; Dominique Lucious, killed in Springfield, Missouri, in 2021.

According to a study by Transgender Europe, which monitors violence against trans people worldwide, more than 3,600 murders of transgender and gender-expansive people have been reported since 2008. Most of the murders happen in the victim's own home or in the street.

It's very personal for Nou because one of those women, Aerrion Burnett, was her friend.

Burnett had a "heart of gold" and the news of her murder devastated her friends and family. She was shot and found dumped on the side of the road at 13th Street South and South Brookside Avenue.

Nou had the honor of doing Burnett's makeup for her funeral.

"I just felt so empowered to even be in that position because her parents respect her enough to allow me to be in the position to do her makeup to send their daughter off the correct way," Nou said.

Yes, these women have seen hard times. But they're still standing.

"I'm a vet," Roberts said. "I'm a icon, I'm a legend, baby. I have lived to see all the days. The good days, the bad days."

Their work today is to make sure their sisters experience a better Kansas City than the one they were given years ago.

Nou is the vice president of the board at Transformations KC. She's nurtured many young trans women over the years, helping them come into their own.

Roberts has always lived her life boldly, breaking out as a performer when she was 14.

"I would wear my show stuff to school and the kids would be like, 'Okay, who's this b? Now what is she doing?'" Roberts said. "Thigh-high boots, leather catsuits, fur coats. Yeah, and I wanted to be the glamorous girl at all costs."

Roberts, who also goes by Treshawn Seymour, is a seamstress, hairstylist and makeup artist. She's been heavily involved in Kansas City's ballroom scene and holds a title of Queen Mother, which takes on many roles in the trans community, including being a mentor and mother figure.

DeJesus Anaya is a reality star, whose stage persona is Monica Beverly Hillz. She starred in season five of RuPaul's Drag Race and was the first queen to come out on the show as a trans woman.

It's not all trauma. These women have joy, love, sisterhood, and a chosen family in their lives.

"You know, we're not just sex workers," Nou said. "We're human beings and we still can be successful and beautiful at the same time."

The rest is here:
Still standing: Trans women in KC share their story of survival, empowerment - KSHB 41 Kansas City News

The spiking cost of living impacts people with disabilities equally as much as people without, creating a need to seek supplemental income.

Despite this need, people with disabilities experience higher unemployment rates and face barriers to employment which contribute to a significant discrepancy in employment for people with disabilities when compared to those without.

According to the Bureau of Labor, in 2021, 11.9% of all people surveyed had a disability, half were over the age of 65, but only 19.1% of the people with disabilities surveyed were employed. The unemployment rate of people with disabilities seeking work was twice that of individuals without disabilities.

There are many Michigan agencies with work programs to assist individuals with disabilities. However, these agencies are not immune to the staff shortages that plague every industry in todays economy, often causing minimal assistance and delays in aiding people with disabilities seeking employment. Disability Network strives to bridge the gap in employment for people with disabilities.

People with disabilities are often qualified to fill employment positions, yet face barriers to joining the work force, from the initial job-seeking stage through the application and hiring process and continuing throughout the employment period.

Disability Network created a program called Job Club in response to these barriers. Job Club is designed to assist individuals with disabilities who are contemplating employment or preparing to begin new employment. The program is divided into two series which focuses on career assessments, accommodations, skills, applications, mock interviews, resume and cover letters, self-employment and social security benefits planning.

The creation of Job Club has provided an interesting perspective on themodern trends ofobstacles whichprovide challenges in obtaining employment for people with disabilities. One obstacle isrelaying work history and relevant experience on applications and resumes. Gaps in employment or late admission to the workforce are common with disability and can be difficult to explain on a resume.

One Job Club participant needed a lengthy break from paid employment to provide care for her ailing mother for many years. Eventually, the time came to rejoin the work force, but she was concerned about the 10-year gap in her work history. She joined the two series of Job Club to assist her in preparing for employment to create a resume and complete applications in applying her education and experience despite the break in employment history.

Job Club helped her to realize that her volunteer work during the break and the direct caregiving duties she provided for her mother were all relevant experiences that the right employers would be interested in. Furthermore, she disregarded her nursing degree received over 20 years ago because she hadnt worked in the nursing field. Job Club taught her that this was still appropriate to list on her resume and applications. After this individual completes the two segments of Job Club, she will work with Disability Network staff on finding employment.

Another obstacle that many people face in seeking employment when they have a disability is a lack of confidence in presenting employable skills and presenting themselves confidently in an interview. Job Club helps individuals to understand their skills and abilities and how these are valuable in employment settings, allowing participants to become more confident in discussing these with potential employers. One common example is skills with computers, programming and technology. But because these skills are often developed outside of work experience, many individuals overlook this as a skill that employers might find valuable.

A second Job Club participant worked at a large agency as a COVID tester. The position was this individuals first job and he had no further experience in competitive employment. As the COVID rates improved in his county, he was informed that his services as COVID tester would be unlikely to continue much longer. He joined Job Club to assist him in entering competitive employment so that he could look for new work.

Before beginning Job Club, he reported having no employable skills and lacked confidence in his ability to hold any other work. After completing Job Club, he learned that his skills in customer service and volunteer work running another program the agency offered were skills that he could report on applications and resumes. This encouraged him to speak with his employer and the human resources department to inform them he was looking for new work, but wanted to advocate for the creation of another position within the agency because he enjoyed working for them.

He reminded them of his skills, that he had never missed a day of work, that he completed all the work he had been trained to do pursuant to his job description and then took on many additional duties as was asked of him. As a result of his self-advocacy, the agency created a new position to keep him employed with the agency. He would like to continue working with Disability Network to learn more about self-employment to fulfill his life dream of owning and running his own store.

Disability Network encourages employers to remember that people with disabilities are employable, and to be as open to accommodations in the application and interviewing process as you would be during employment. If you need any assistance or are interested in learning more, please visit disabilitynetwork.org.

Alanna Lahey is the associate director for Disability Network of Northern Michigan in Traverse City.Disability Network Northern Michigan is the first stop for people with disabilities and their families in northern Michigan with a mission to promote personal empowerment and positive social change for people with disabilities.

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Job Club: Creating independence in employment for people with disabilities - Traverse City Business News

P&G Philippines president and general manager Raffy Fajardo shares his view on the power that comes from harnessing individual differences

Diversity is a term one hears from many corporations. It is a buzzword in todays labor force as people hope to find a workplace that is perfectly suited to who they are. While creating a work culture built on inclusivity and openness is the goal, many are challenged by it and how to fully integrate it into their system.

The thing is, making an inclusive workplace is something that cannot be done overnight. For some, it takes years to fully have it. A corporation that can attest to that is Procter & Gamble (P&G) Philippines. As a multinational consumer goods corporation with a strong footing in over 180 countries, it has continued to foster an inclusive environment for its employees through the years. With its We See Equal campaign, it has produced numerous policies, practices, and programs that champion not only minority groups but everyone, from its line of managers and leaders down to its teams. This enabled the company to be recognized by the United Nations Women Empowerment and Principles (UN WEPs) as a Champion for Gender Equal Workplace.

We value diversity to a point that everyone is unique, Rafael Arturo Raffy Fajardo, P&G Philippines president and general manager, says. We dont see religion, political views, nationality, gender, any of those. We judge based on merit and contributions. Diversity comes from individual strengths and understanding those strengths. What it is not are stereotypes and judgmentthese have nothing to do with the company.

During a media roundtable discussion, Fajardo details more on how creating inclusive workplaces and unlearning biases benefit all. From seeing beyond ones background and having mutual respect to asking the right questions, heres what we learn from the leader of P&G Philippines in shaping an inclusive work culture.

Working for P&G for 23 years, Fajardo can attest to the companys focus on peoples outcomes, not activities. As a computer science graduate, it is likely that he would end up in a role that is more suited to what he finished in college, but the organization saw potential in him in the field of marketing, which led him to opportunities to work in Singapore and Thailand, and eventually in the Philippines.

Fajardo believes in merit system and so is P&G. Focusing on outcomes means first looking at employees performance and stand-out impact instead of their different work styles and personal circumstances. This way, employees are motivated to perform, help in achieving company goals, and be seen for their abilities regardless of their personalities, sexual orientations, and backgrounds.

Everyone is unique. When we focus solely on a persons outcomes, we level the playing field to provide an equal chance for everyone to achieve their objectives without biases and preconceived judgments, Fajardo says. Then we empower by recognizing the value of individual strengths and capabilities that each person brings.

Organizational status can be one of the many barriers for employees to creating conversations with their heads. Managers and leaders are different in the business world. One is fixed on accomplishing tasks and mentoring his team while the latter tends to inspire people. To be a successful chief, he or she must have both qualities. Managers and leaders should stay curious and humble while keeping their targets in their heads. And the best way to attain that is through their employees, and by listening to them.

In Fajardos case, he learns more about his employees through Cocomos, his nickname for coffee connects with country managers outside the usual workplace meetings. Through it, he discovers more about his team, things about and beyond the workplace, making them feel that they are important and their opinions matter. This ultimately helped him be more aware of biases and barriers and understand what actions or help is needed.

Reaching out to the people who can give you the best insight through curiosity and humility, changes your frame of reference, he says.

Unlearning biases can be hard, and again, takes a lot of time for its product to manifest. In P&Gs journey toward an inclusive work culture, it has built many affinity groups to foster change within its community. First is GABLE (Gay, Ally, Bisexual, Lesbian, and Transgender Employees), where workers can feel safe, have a sense of belonging, and feel free to be themselves. Another is Men as Allies for Real Change, which encourages understanding among male leaders and colleagues to promote gender equality and be true catalysts for change. Theres also the series Women Beyond Boundaries, featuring a variety of women from different functions of the organization and parts of the company.

To fully create a change in the community, the company has launched numerous policies and programs based on its employees needs. One of which is the My Pay, My Way program, where certain benefits are customized according to the priorities and personal preferences of our people. Another is the Share the Care policy, a parental leave program that grants eight weeks of fully paid parental leave. This allows dads to take care of their new child for more than seven days. It also applies to all employees regardless of gender or marital status. Of course, this is on top of the birth or adoptive mothers 105 calendar days of fully paid maternity leave.

Currently, the company is looking to branch its inclusion practices toward people with disabilities. Already in the pipeline for the Philippines is #Limitless, a new global chapter of P&Gs People with Disabilities affinity group.

Fajardo thinks that a common pitfall for people managers is to expect their employees to grow and possibly follow a proven path of someone else, perhaps a role model, instead of helping them become the best version of themselves. To allow employees to reach their fullest potential, he believes that leaders should empower their employees to play to their strengths.

An example of this is the misconception that extroverts are more successful or impactful than introverts because they are able to speak up and be more visible in collaborative and social events. Personalities and styles will always differ so an alternative frame of reference is to focus instead on a persons stand-out impact and contributions to the business and the organization.

At P&G, employees are given meaningful work from Day 1. It aims to create a workplace culture where employees are empowered and enabled to grow, develop and succeed through intentional career planning and equal opportunities.

Allow each employee to set their own level of flexibility, so that they may bring themselves to work every day and make a difference, he says. If everyone comes in feeling included and plays to their strength, we will have a huge impact on the business and culture.

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How creating inclusive workplaces and unlearning biases benefit all - Manila Bulletin

Myka 9 andHand Solo Records artists, Mickey OBrienand Ultra Magnus, along with local support fromConika, will perform at The Loft in the Algoma Conservatory of Music this week.

Myka 9gained popularity in the underground rap scene of 1990s LA. He has a fast-paced and melodic lyrical style influenced byjazz. He is also a memberHaiku D'etat and The Freestyle Fellowship.

Mickey OBrien, a rapperfrom Sudburyhas lyrically rich and multi-genre tracks, focusing on mental health, relationships, and workers empowerment.

Ultra Magnus is a rapper who has been touring around Canada for the last few years as part of the duo of Ultra Magnus and DJ Slam!

Conika is ahip-hop MC andpoet from Garden River whose songsfocus onemotion and personal experience.

Their performance will kick offon July 10at 7 p.m.

For more information, read the news release below:

Dryer Fire, in collaboration with The Algoma Conservatory of Music and with the generous support of Village Media, presents underground hip hop legend Myka 9 on tour with Hand Solo Records artists, Mickey OBrien (Sudbury) and Ultra Magnus (Toronto), along with local support from Conika. They will perform on Sunday, July 10, at 7 p.m. at The Loft at The Algoma Conservatory of Music, 75 Huron St.

Myka 9 has been referred to as your favourite rappers favourite rapper. Known initially as Microphone Mike, the artist made a name for himself in the underground rap scene of 1990s LA. His lyrical style is fast-paced and melodic, drawing heavily on jazz influences. Hes a member of influential groups Haiku D'etat and The Freestyle Fellowship.

Mickey OBrien is a rapper hailing from Copper Cliff, just outside of Sudbury. His tracks are lyrically rich and multi-genre, touching on themes of mental health, relationships, and workers empowerment, reflecting his reality as a working-class Northern Ontario artist.

Ultra Magnus grew up in a highly isolated part of Canada, but thanks to the advent of the internet, he discovered hip hop decades ago and obsessed over it. He has been touring Canada for the last few years as part of the duo of Ultra Magnus & DJ Slam!.

Conika is a skilled hip-hop MC and spoken word poet from Garden River who explores emotion and personal experience through her rhymes.

This will be the first hip-hop show presented at The Loft. The space, located on the third floor of The Algoma Conservatory of Music, is a gorgeous venue with incredible acoustics. This is sure to be a show not to be missed!

This is an all-ages event. Tickets are $25 and are available through The Algoma Conservatory of Music website and the Dryer Fire website.

Facebook event link can be found here.

For more information, contact Nicole Dyble at dryerfiressm@gmail.com.

Visit link:
Myka 9 and guests play The Loft this week - SooToday

Assertiveness remains an essential tool for a successful career in nursing. Although this quality is rooted in communication skills, possession of good communication skills does not guarantee assertiveness.

Many literature sources have highlighted the importance of assertiveness in care delivery, expression of needs, affirming self-values and building interpersonal relationships.

There is also evidence of non-assertiveness, predominant among overseas nurses, and its correlation to human factors, unfair treatments, and conflicts in workplaces.

We may observe that people from varying ethnic backgrounds assert themselves differently from the way we are used to

Ordinarily, certain factors affect assertiveness but there are factors peculiar to overseas nurses, which cause their assertiveness to wane over time.

This is an issue that deserves urgent attention to ameliorate the associated mental stress, under-representation, bullying, dissatisfaction, and poor retention.

Therefore, this piece is aimed at understanding how assertiveness may regress instead of improving timely for overseas nurses and useful tips for self-help and supporting them.

Communication is a means of exchange. By this, we can send different messages through both verbal and nonverbal means.

While we may be fluent in a language largely representing the verbal aspect, the non-verbal means which constitute an immense part of the communication piece remain greatly influenced by culture and learning; so is assertiveness.

Eye contact, tone, posture, hand gestures, and when and how they are used accord some cultural essence to our communication.

Therefore, there is no one way of being assertive. Under normal circumstances, everyone understands their individual needs and can express them in unique ways without being confrontational and that is assertiveness.

In other words, we may observe that people from varying ethnic backgrounds assert themselves differently from the way we are used to.

When we assert ourselves, we intend to transmit an honest, clear, and understandable message. In return, we expect an understanding, positive action, information, and a good experience.

However, many overseas nurses often find themselves in a different situation where their messages are often misunderstood, misinterpreted, denigrated, or blanked, producing a negative experience.

Nurses have reported being perceived as mean or aggressive, or unsure of themselves due to their hand gestures or tone of voice.

Also, the discouraging responses they received when they assert themselves are widespread. Typical examples include, and are not limited to:

Consequently, a once firm voice begins to waver. Eye contact becomes effortful, and an accumulated feeling of disrespect and being judged naturally put them on the defence.

At this point, it is pertinent to mention that nurses in a new environment may experience diminished self-reliance due to unfamiliarity; they are not surefooted and would be asking a lot of questions.

Invariably, they will assert their needs how best they know and should be understood and valued. Bear in mind that assertiveness requires some mental energy, and can be given up when constantly challenged with negative responses.

To buttress, even people who are developed in assertiveness may not always be mentally prepared to be assertive.

Nurses should accommodate and treat each other with utmost respect irrespective of background

So, without appropriate support, overtime, overseas nurses may begin to conceal their true feelings resulting in low self-esteem, compromised patient care, and a lack of courage to escalate concerns, or even venture for higher positions.

Therefore, there should be an empathic connection to their needs to lend them that mental empowerment to be assertive.

Nurses should accommodate and treat each other with utmost respect irrespective of background. An understanding that colleagues can do things slightly differently will create more room to sincerely connect to their needs.

It is also this understanding that will help you appreciate their normal behaviour. This is not synonymous with saying that overseas nurses do not have their weaknesses, just like every other human.

Instead, this is an awakening for nurses to be culturally aware of others to avoid picking the wrong message.

Just as the overseas nurses strive to understand and imbibe the culture in the UK, other colleagues should make a reciprocate attempt to understand them.

Evidence indicates that a positive work ethic facilitates the adjustment of overseas nurses to their new workplace environments.

On the other hand, overseas nurses should refrain from building their personal experiences around that of others.

Ward managers and other staff should support international nurses to be at their best

While there is evidence of unpleasant experiences among overseas nurses, nurses should learn from those experiences rather than personalise them. Rid yourself of biases and embrace your unique journey.

In addition, overseas nurses should normalise reflective practice. Reflections allow you to learn and improve from your experiences. Again, clarity of message cannot be over-emphasised.

Focus on making your message as clear as possible. Consider talking at a slower pace and steady pace to limit the number of aye, aye that you get each time you talk, as a feeling of not being understood can thug at your confidence.

Some are keen on achieving a near British accent at the detriment of clarity. While acquiring an accent can give you a sense of belonging, it should not be a primary focus. Importantly, negotiate with colleagues and consider a compromise where possible.

In conclusion, the international nurses in the UK are among the best in their nations. Therefore, ward managers and other staff should support them to be at their best.

We can collaboratively promote a culture that builds a trusting relationship and supports assertiveness among overseas nurses.

Chinenye Ubah is lecturer, adult nursing, Anglia Ruskin University

Read the original post:
'Easing the strain on overseas nurses' assertiveness' - Nursing Times

Marines and Navy sailors from the USS Bataan stand on the flight deck during their arrival for Fleet Week 2022 in New York. In the wake of the Supreme Court's historic term, some service members and veterans are speaking out. Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images hide caption

Marines and Navy sailors from the USS Bataan stand on the flight deck during their arrival for Fleet Week 2022 in New York. In the wake of the Supreme Court's historic term, some service members and veterans are speaking out.

For the first time in her life, Marine Corps Capt. Meleah Martin is refusing to wear American flag attire this Independence Day. Instead, she told her family that she will only wear pride colors and apparel. Not because she's unpatriotic she's spent approximately 16 months deployed overseas as an F-18 pilot. But because she believes her constitutional rights are under attack.

Martin said it's been disheartening to witness liberties such as the right to protest or to cast a ballot come under attack in recent years. Those frustrations turned to devastation for her with the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, stripping away the constitutional right to an abortion. Martin hopes to someday start a family, but as someone who identifies as a lesbian, she's scared her right to marry and have children may also be in danger.

As a result of these fears and frustrations, she said she doesn't look at the American flag the way she used to.

"We swear an oath, 'To support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic' ... Well, it's time to start worrying about the domestic, because clearly we have more of a problem here than we do anywhere else," Martin said, noting that her views are her own, and not a reflection of her unit or the Marine Corps. "It's really disappointing when something like this happens, because, like, how do I defend that?"

And she's not alone.

The American military and its more than 1 million active-duty troops is traditionally seen as apolitical. But in the wake of a historic Supreme Court term that has shifted the nation to the right on everything from the Second Amendment and abortion, to the separation of church and state, service members and veterans on both sides of the political divide are finding it increasingly difficult to remain quiet.

For some, the shifts brought on by the court are cause for celebration. For others, their sentiments amount to a loss of trust and confidence in political leaders, and growing frustration with the country they are sworn to defend.

Victor LaGroon is a chairman for the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, which works to better the lives of Black veterans across the country. He's worked with veterans and their communities to help protect their right to vote. Victor LaGroon/Victor LaGroon hide caption

Victor LaGroon is a chairman for the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, which works to better the lives of Black veterans across the country. He's worked with veterans and their communities to help protect their right to vote.

Before serving as a chairman for the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, Victor LaGroon served as an intelligence analyst in the U.S. Army. His job at the time was to help gather information so that commanders could make methodical choices on the battlefield.

He uses the skills he acquired in the Army to better work with politicians in hopes of achieving equal access to benefits and protecting the rights of Black veterans. One of the campaigns he's passionate about is ensuring that Black veterans, as well as their families and communities, have the right to vote. He feels his work is more important than ever, given the growing number of states that have moved to restrict voter access since the 2020 election.

Victor LaGroon, left, chairman of the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, moderates a panel discussion with U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, right, last week in Washington, D.C. Michael McCoy/Michael McCoy hide caption

Victor LaGroon, left, chairman of the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, moderates a panel discussion with U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, right, last week in Washington, D.C.

"To have lost soldiers and sailors and Marines and airmen securing other people's right to vote, and then to come home and have your own government obstruct your right to vote is beyond repulsive. It is shameful. It's hateful, it should be illegal," LaGroon said. "We should not allow anyone American who wants to vote, who's qualified to vote, to not be voting. It is a part of the core of who we are."

LaGroon spoke about his grandfather, who was given one piece of advice after returning from World War II: "Don't get caught in that uniform in the South, because they'll hang you." Historically speaking, LaGroon said, Black service members have time and again been willing to sacrifice their lives in defense of a nation that doesn't care about them.

"If we're a nation of freedoms, why is it some freedoms are more valuable than others? That's the question," LaGroon said. "I'm saddened by what we've become. Because I know we're capable of being better."

Meleah Martin, left, her girlfriend, Katelyn Carbajal, right, and Carbajal's daughter Harper, center, in Washington, D.C. Meleah Martin/Meleah Martin hide caption

Meleah Martin, left, her girlfriend, Katelyn Carbajal, right, and Carbajal's daughter Harper, center, in Washington, D.C.

Martin has never been one to draw attention to herself. As an active duty member of the military, she's always been careful about sharing her political beliefs with the public in order to maintain her image as an officer. However, she said the Supreme Court's decision to do away with federal abortion protections was the tipping point for her, and compelled her to speak out.

Over the years many people have asked her what it's like to be a woman in military aviation, a profession historically dominated by men. But that's never bothered her, because she's always seen her fellow pilots as family.

But in the wake of the court's abortion ruling last month, she said can't shake the feeling that she is on uneven ground.

"I've truly felt extremely equal to my peers and I've had a wonderful time in the military, but now, you know, I do I have one less right," Martin said. "And it is a right that has to do directly with my personal body."

Marine Capt. Meleah Martin performing preflight inspections on her F-18 aircraft. Martin is concerned not just about her right to get an abortion, but the threat of not being able to marry the woman she loves one day. Gregory Oh/Gregory Oh hide caption

Marine Capt. Meleah Martin performing preflight inspections on her F-18 aircraft. Martin is concerned not just about her right to get an abortion, but the threat of not being able to marry the woman she loves one day.

When it comes to talk of the future, she and her girlfriend often discuss marriage and raising children. And though her partner already has a daughter, the two talk about artificial insemination and who would carry their child. But now she's concerned about what that could look like should a pregnancy put her or her partner's life at risk.

Martin is scared she may find herself at a duty station in a state where abortion is outlawed. If she and her partner needed to travel to have an abortion, Martin would need to have a leave request approved by her commanding officer, who might have differing views on the issue.

"I'm not saying that commanders don't have the interests of their sailors and Marines and soldiers in mind. But on, say the worst-case scenario, right, that commander has a very strong belief and is very much against abortion and knows what you're trying to do to take leave, they can just deny your leave without repercussion," she said. "I understand that that is like a very, very severe estimate, right? Or like, that is the worst-case scenario. But it's not necessarily out of the cards."

An additional fear that weighs on Martin is whether she and her partner will be able to get married in the not-too-distant future.

In a concurring opinion to the Supreme Court's abortion ruling, Justice Clarence Thomas wrote that the court's legal rationale in overturning Roe could also be applied to overturn other major cases, including the court's decision to legalize gay marriage.

His words shook members of the LGBTQ+ community, including Martin, who now worry that the conservative majority on the high court could strike down their right to marry.

"We thought The Handmaid's Tale was, you know, just an entertaining show, but we're honestly headed back towards that direction, you know what I mean?" Martin said. "It's just sad to see. It's crazy."

Natalia Ketcham and her husband, Dallas Ketcham. She has always been against abortion and was glad to see the Supreme Court's decision last month. Although the conversations surrounding abortion are polarizing, she hopes people can come together to talk about it and other important issues. Natalia Ketcham/Natalia Ketcham hide caption

Natalia Ketcham and her husband, Dallas Ketcham. She has always been against abortion and was glad to see the Supreme Court's decision last month. Although the conversations surrounding abortion are polarizing, she hopes people can come together to talk about it and other important issues.

Twenty-three-year-old Natalia Ketcham has two months left on her enlistment with the Coast Guard, after which she plans to attend school to become a dental hygienist. She's originally from Miami, but is stationed outside of San Francisco. Like Martin and LaGroon, she too is concerned about the state of things, albeit for different reasons.

Ketcham has been against abortion since she was a pre-teen. Her stance doesn't stem from her Roman Catholic beliefs, she explained, but from her love of life itself.

"I firmly believe that abortion is not a constitutional right, we all have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, first and foremost, life," she said.

When the justices voted to return abortion laws to individual states, she was elated. However, as a staunch anti-abortion advocate, she believes there's more work to be done.

"I think that this is a great first step in advancing our generations, our future generations, and I think that's great. But we are nowhere near done," Ketcham said. "So as happy as I am, I am not complacent with where we are at. And I think that's important for pro-lifers to really understand, is that our struggle is not done."

Ketcham said she stands against abortion across the board, including in cases of rape or incest. Her belief that abortions should be illegal stems from what she sees as an unborn child's right to life, which in her opinion, supersedes the right to an abortion.

She's also against the argument that abortion should be legal in instances where the mother may be forced to choose between her life and that of the unborn child.

"If I were put in ... that situation or scenario, I would proudly give up my life for that [of] my child," Ketcham said.

Instead of funding clinics where abortions are performed, she said she wishes the funds would be redirected towards women's health care, adoption services and child support initiatives.

The conversations surrounding abortion are polarizing to say the least, Ketcham admitted, but she also believes they're important conversations to have. She hopes people can come together to talk about issues that are dividing the country to try and bridge a nation divided.

Members of the Oath Keepers at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in military-style attire. One-in-five of those charged during the attack on the Capitol were veterans, which leaves some veterans worried about how that will affect how the public views them. Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP hide caption

Members of the Oath Keepers at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in military-style attire. One-in-five of those charged during the attack on the Capitol were veterans, which leaves some veterans worried about how that will affect how the public views them.

Investigations into the January 6 attacks revealed that approximately 1-in-5 defendants charged for the siege of the Capitol were veterans, NPR previously reported. LaGroon said the news troubled him because he worried those individuals could be seen by some to be a representation of the veteran population.

The thought of veterans across the country joining extremist groups or supporting white supremacy hurts all veterans, LaGroon said, which is why it's important that those who served stand up and speak out.

"If we're not giving people an alternative perspective of who we are, people aren't going to want to hire veterans, they're not going to want us as neighbors, they're not going to want us to marry into their families, they're not going to want to be our classmates in school, because, you know, why? Someone has hijacked our image," he said. "Now we're kind of stuck trying to convey and convince people, 'Oh, no, we're actually better than that.' Are we? Because we got to show it."

Service members and veterans can be found on both sides of the political spectrum, LaGroon said. But most veterans, he believes, find themselves in the middle, often playing peacekeeper between veterans with strong views on the left and the right.

And though it's easier to sit back and remain disheartened about what's taking place across the nation than speak up and risk ridicule, LaGroon said, there's too much at stake to let that happen.

"I think that we have to recognize that we're in the fight, and we have to get in the fight, right? And look, a lot of us are tired, man. You know what I mean?" LaGroon said. "We wore the uniform, we came home, we're acclimated we got it together somehow and we're just trying to enjoy life. And time and time again, thing after thing, we keep seeing our nation needs us more today than it did when we were in uniform."

View post:
Veterans worry about the erosion of their constitutional rights - NPR

The Native Economic and Financial Education Empowerment (NEFEE) program is a Federal Reserve System effort led by the St. Louis Fed to reach a historically underserved population with economic and financial education. We support the prosperity of Native nations by providing economic and financial education in partnership with Native partners and other Federal Reserve banks who offer economic and financial education programming.

The Native Economic and Financial Education Empowerment program combines the public service mission of the Federal Reserve, its commitment to serving underserved populations, and its expertise in economic education. Since 2018, we have provided economic and personal finance education for tribal nations and Native communities and organizations throughout the country.

We believe economic and personal finance knowledge helps foster resilient and healthy individuals, families and communities. We respect the unique challenges that tribal nations face as sovereign governments to enhance the financial well-being of their people.

Our core work includes partnering with tribal nations to provide economic and financial education programming to their members and citizens. We offer in-person and virtual programming for Native educators; develop economics and personal finance curricula for use in classrooms and youth programs; and conduct research to measure the efficacy of our programs.

We are dedicated to increasing opportunities for members of Native communities to develop financial skills, especially for Native youth. Investing in education for youth can have significant returns. Not only can it benefit individual young people and their families, it can also help develop youth to be future leaders and contributors to their communities by preparing them to make important financial decisions.

We believe greater access to economic and financial education helps advance a more inclusive economy for all.

We have extensive experience in teaching economics, personal finance, curricula development and conducting outreach to underserved communities. We provide high-quality resources and professional development to improve instruction. Our resources and professional development programming are all free.

In its work with tribal nations and Native communities and organizations, NEFEE incorporates personal finance and economic education into a broad array of programs across generations, including programs for:

We acknowledge the importance of language and culture in education and value opportunities to highlight them to better engage Native students and foster a more inclusive learning environment. We partner with tribal nations to incorporate their Native language and culture within curricula in a variety of formats.

Megan Cruz leads the NEFEE outreach effort.

megan.cruz@stls.frb.org

Megan Cruz

The Federal Reserve Board announced on Oct. 13, 2021, that it joined the Central Bank Network for Indigenous Inclusion, which fosters ongoing dialogue, research and education to raise awareness of economic and financial issues and opportunities for Indigenous economies.

The Boards participation is supported by the Native Economic and Financial Education Empowerment (NEFEE) program at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis and the Center for Indian Country Development at the Federal Reserve of Minneapolis. Along with Indigenous partners, the network is a collaboration with Te Ptea Matua (the Reserve Bank of New Zealand), the Bank of Canada and the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Continued here:
Native Economic and Financial Education Empowerment (NEFEE) - Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

SAN DIEGO, June 23, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Out-of-state applicants for rental properties increased 42% from 2020 to 2021, according to a new analysis of TransUnion (NYSE: TRU) data. In that same period, rental applications in rural areas increased 28%, while urban rental application volume rose just 10%. The primary driver of these trends appears to be rising housing costs and the widespread availability of remote work, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic.

TransUnion is presenting its findings at the National Apartment Associations Annual Apartmentalize conference. They are also available in the Quick Guide, How COVID-19 and Remote Work is Reshaping U.S. Rental Demand.

With remote work firmly in the norm, weve seen renters actively seeking new locations that better suit their budgets and lifestyles, said Maitri Johnson, vice president of tenant and employment screening at TransUnion. While many are going out-of-state to sunnier environments, were also seeing a preference for rural areas and exurbs that have more space and a lower cost of living, but also a relative proximity to cities and airports.

Texas saw the largest increase between 2020 and 2021, with more than 310,000 new residents. Meanwhile, New York had the highest decrease, losing more than 319,000 residents. Generally, the cross-state migration patterns show more people leaving the Rust Belt and Northeast in favor of the Southern Atlantic and Mountain states, as well as Arizona and Texas1.

Affordability an issue

Overall occupancy of U.S. rentals reached a record 98% in January 20222. This may have been driven in part by an influx of homeowners who capitalized on their home equity by selling while housing prices were at an all-time high, and renting until valuations come back down. When looking at rental applications from 2020-2021, there was a 37% increase in applicants who had sold their home within the past year and a 16% increase among applicants with an outstanding mortgage.

The higher costs for home purchases simultaneously kept many younger adults from becoming first-time homebuyers. However, the same inflationary trends have impacted affordability in the rental market as well. Rent prices increased 14% between 2020 and 2021 while the median income of applicants has only increased 6% over that same time. Predictably, delinquencies on rent payments have increased. Whereas on-time rent payments were at 96% in January 2020, they had dropped to 92% at the end of 20213.

Demand is clearly very strong right now, which is all the more reason for a thorough rental application screening process with an emphasis on income and debt ratios and their effect on affordability, said Johnson.

Incoming immigration boom

There are signs that the housing market is cooling down as the Fed has bumped up interest rates several times already this year, which means renters can expect to continue renting until economic stability is regained. That said, TransUnion analysis suggests immigrants may well buoy the rental markets high demand over the long term.

Citing data from the U.S. Census Bureau and Joint Centers for Housing Studies of Harvard University, the report provides highlights about this populations participation in the rental market.

In 2022, immigrants represent more than 14% of the total U.S. population. That percentage is expected to grow through 2060, when the U.S. Census Bureau projects immigrants to represent 17% of the nations population4.

Because people who immigrate to the U.S. tend to remain renters for long periods, there is likely a compounding effect to this sustained increase, said Johnson. The current demand resulting from the housing market may subside as home prices come down, but this population will likely keep rental demand elevated over the coming decades.

As immigrants navigate the housing market, they may have questions about how credit works in the United States. This TransUnion blog answers common questions about building credit as an immigrant, including tips on how to establish a credit history.

Tips for renters

As with owning a home, renting can have an impact on consumers credit. For starters, a rental application may include a credit check. Depending on the service your landlord uses, this may result in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can cause a temporary dip in your score, said Margaret Poe, head of consumer credit education at TransUnion.

However, consumers should know that monthly rent payments could be a boon to their credit health, as well. Payment history is one of the major credit score factors, so if your landlord reports your monthly rent to the credit reporting agencies and youre consistently making on-time payments, the history of that account will reflect positively on your report, said Poe.

For more information about the research, read the Quick Guide, How COVID-19 and Remote Work is Reshaping U.S. Rental Demand.

About TransUnion (NYSE:TRU)

TransUnion is a global information and insights company that makes trust possible in the modern economy. We do this by providing an actionable picture of each person so they can be reliably represented in the marketplace. As a result, businesses and consumers can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good.A leading presence in more than 30 countries across five continents, TransUnion provides solutions that help create economic opportunity, great experiences and personal empowerment for hundreds of millions of people.

http://www.transunion.com/business

Originally posted here:
Renter Migration Patterns Drive 42% Increase in Out-of-State Applicants as Renters Seek ... - The Bakersfield Californian

Photo credit

Its no secret that employee engagement is a critical ingredient for heightened productivity and lower turnover at work. When we feel heard, valued, and empowered at work, we tend to be more productive, satisfied, and committed to the job. Yet widescale employee engagement seems to be constantly out of reach for a number of companies. After a few decades of steady progress in engagement numbers, 2021 data from Gallup showed the first decline in more than 10 years.

Sure, we can point to myriad factors that might have influenced that drop, including the global pandemic. However, too many company leaders ignore a fundamental truth when trying to help employees realize their potential: They wont achieve long-term engagement with only extrinsic rewards like money or tangible goods. Instead, they need to tap into their teams intrinsic motivators to build a more committed, motivated, and satisfied workforce.

We want to feel like our opinions truly matter. We want to have a say in how things are run. We want the freedom to adapt and respond to problems in real time at work. We want to have some control to set our tasks and make decisions based on whats best for us. Unsurprisingly, according to a Society for Human Resource Management survey, 7 in 10 employees ranked being empowered to take action at work as important to their overall engagement. If youre among that number and are searching for a new job at a company that has a culture of employee empowerment, look for these four features:

1. A company that is a safe space.

One of the biggest misconceptions about empowerment at work is that its something company leaders bestow upon their employees. In reality, we already have the power within ourselves; we just need the space to exercise it. However, its hard to step up to the plate if were afraid well get hit by the pitch.

So, look for a company that fosters psychological safety, allowing you to do great work without a manager or company leader constantly looking over your shoulder to reprimand you if something goes wrong.

According to Timm Urschinger, cofounder and CEO of LIVEsciences, thats all empowerment really is: In essence, the much-talked-about empowerment means nothing more than creating a safe space where people feel encouraged to try new things, make decisions, and not be afraid to be blamed if something doesnt work out, writes Urschinger. In other words, you need to look for a company that nurtures a risk-tolerant culture, promoting spirited debate and inviting employees to experiment.

2. A company with a mentorship program.

There will undoubtedly be more bumps along the road at a company that offers strong psychological guard rails for helping you realize your full potential. Letting you try and fail at work is one thing; leaving you to flounder is another entirely. This is where a companywide mentorship program is essential.

According to a survey by Deloitte and Moving Ahead, 87% of mentors and mentees said that the relationship helped them feel more empowered and confident. Having a mentor will not only allow you to take ownership of your personal and professional development, but it will also help you grow from inevitable missteps that will happen in your new role.

Mentoring our employees through their mistakes will give them space to grow, and will help to create a culture of growth and resilience, explains Ali Novitsky, CEO and founder of Life Coaching for Women Physicians.

3. A company that appreciates its employees.

From the time were small, most of us crave the affirmation of a job well done from our parents, teachers, and even friends. So great is this need that we often perceive neutral reactions negatively.

This applies to the working world, too. When O.C. Tanner asked employees what their employers could do to motivate them to produce great work consistently, almost 40% of respondents said more personal recognition.

During your job search, consider whether the companies youre looking at show appreciation for their employees contributions. Do they consistently recognize team members based on their goals and strengths? Or do they go radio silent when employee engagement week ends?

4. A company with clear expectations.

You dont want company leaders breathing down your neck while you work, but you also dont want to be left twisting in the wind. Without set expectations, employees may be left to wonder where their impact lies and, therefore, fall behind, says Luanne Tierney, chief marketing officer at Betterworks.

Ensure the on-the-job expectations at the companies you apply to are unambiguous, but also leave room for employees questions and feedback. And look for a company where employees inputs on how to refine workplace and job expectations are taken into account.

However, set expectations are only half of the equation. If a company has clear expectations but doesnt provide its employees the time and resources to meet those expectations, it doesnt have a true culture of empowerment.

When you feel more empowered and engaged at work, you can thrive. The question is: How can you recognize a company that has a culture of engagement during your job search? Look beyond quarterly bonus structures or beer taps in the break room. Rather, ask the right questions during the interview and tap your network (and company reviews) to rate a prospective new employer on these four game-changing aspects.

William Arruda is a keynote speaker, co-founder of CareerBlast.TV and creator of the 360Reach personal brand feedback survey which allows you to get the real scoop about your professional reputation from those who know you.

Link:
4 Things To Look For If You Want A Culture Of Empowerment At Your Next Job - Forbes