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The Star
3 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Filipino Americans brace for impact of Trump's ‘big, beautiful bill'
LOS ANGELES: As the United States moves forward with implementing President Donald Trump's sweeping legislative package – dubbed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' – many Filipino American communities are bracing for policy changes that could significantly impact their daily lives. From immigration and healthcare to education and remittances, advocates warn that the proposed reforms may jeopardise vital support systems for thousands of immigrant families across the country. Described by supporters as a move toward fiscal efficiency, the bill contains deep cuts to Medicaid, stricter work requirements for food assistance programmes, expanded funding for deportations and a controversial new tax on international remittances. One of the bill's most alarming aspects is its potential impact on healthcare access for millions of low-income Americans. Filipino Americans, many of whom work in frontline healthcare roles, are particularly vulnerable to the Medicaid funding cuts. This federal-state programme serves as a lifeline for many, offering essential medical coverage and preventive care. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that up to ten million Americans — primarily from communities of colour — could lose Medicaid coverage by 2034. For Filipino Americans, who already experience healthcare disparities and face higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, the proposed changes could deepen existing inequalities. According to the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA), 'Medicaid is used to pay for 70 per cent of home care and is often care workers' only pathway to affordable, quality care for themselves. These massive cuts are going to have a ripple effect throughout our communities – countless care workers will lose their jobs and their healthcare.' Jessica Caloza, representing California's 52nd Assembly District, which encompasses several Los Angeles County communities with significant Filipino American presence, such as Eagle Rock, South Glendale and Historic Filipino Town, warns that 'the Big Beautiful Bill is dangerous and will harm many of our Filipino families.' 'It gives tax breaks to the rich while slashing numerous safety net programmes, including the largest single cut to food stamps as poverty reaches a two-decade high, and a US$1 trillion cut to Medicaid,' Caloza emphasised in her statement. Major changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme (SNAP), or 'food stamps,' could severely impact working-class Filipino American families – especially those in mixed-status households (with undocumented parents and US-born children, for example). These benefits often allow families to afford healthier, more expensive food options. Perla Bermudez Santos, founder of the MoTHER Movement, a Los Angeles-based group of Filipino American mothers and seniors, and co-author of 'Caregiving Manual II: Skills and Strategies for Compassionate Care,' noted that while members appreciate new tax deductions and the exemption of Social Security benefits from federal taxes, serious concerns remain. 'Members are worried about the rising cost of fruits, vegetables and other nutritious food options,' said Santos. 'Many seniors receive just US$1,000 a month in retirement benefits and must cover rent, food, transportation, clothing and other essentials. For them, supplemental food benefits are vital to making ends meet.' Another contentious provision is a one per cent excise tax on remittances sent abroad – impacting green card holders, visa workers and undocumented immigrants, including many Filipino Americans. With over US$10 billion in annual remittances sent to the Philippines, this tax could significantly reduce support to families abroad and affect local economies dependent on overseas funds. The bill also proposes 100 per cent tax deductions for donations to private school voucher programmes, a move critics argue could siphon funding from public schools. Many students of colour – including Filipino Americans – attend underfunded public schools that rely on government support. Additionally, expanded funding for immigration enforcement – including a US$170 billion allocation, with US$75 billion earmarked for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – has stoked fear among the estimated 340,000 undocumented Filipino Americans. Many are longtime residents, essential workers and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients now facing heightened uncertainty. Caloza, an immigrant and lifelong public servant who has advocated for working families throughout her various roles at the federal, state and local levels, condemned the bill's immigration provisions. 'I'm devastated by the unrest and fear that families – including Filipinos – in our communities face due to the ongoing ICE raids and increased immigration enforcement,' Caloza said. 'Our taxpayer dollars should go toward our schools, parks, libraries and hospitals – and for communities like mine that have been devastated by wildfires. We also need to invest in emergency recovery,' she added. Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ), a network of four independent Asian American civil rights organisations, echoed that sentiment: 'This legislation prioritises harmful immigration crackdowns at the expense of the urgent needs of everyday Americans.' In response, Filipino American organisations across the country are launching efforts to educate and support affected families through town halls, legal clinics and resource guides. AAAJ stated, 'The Reconciliation Bill directly attacks not just immigrant communities, but all Americans who rely on essential health and nutrition programmes. We need laws that invest in opportunities and our future – not laws that cater to the mega-rich and funnel resources into systems of exclusion and cruelty.' The National Domestic Workers Alliance expressed similar resolve: 'Today, our hearts are heavy. We fought tirelessly – standing shoulder-to-shoulder at vigils, rallies and lobbying blitzes. Now, it's time to turn our grief and outrage into powerful action.' 'We are mobilising to hold accountable every lawmaker who chose cruelty over compassion. In just a few weeks, our massive Protect Medicaid Mobilisations will send an undeniable message: these heartless cuts will have consequences,' the organisation added. The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), which includes 73 members advocating for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, held a press conference addressing the bill's devastating consequences. 'We are united in our commitment to protecting Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders from harmful policies that threaten our rights, our safety and our well-being,' said Rep. Grace Meng, CAPAC Chair. 'Instead of working to lower costs, as he promised on day one, President Trump and Congressional Republicans are waging endless culture wars. This is not what the American people want. CAPAC will continue to fight tooth and nail to protect our rights, hold our leaders accountable and ensure our voices are heard.' NAFCON USA, a coalition of Filipino grassroots organisations and nonprofits, also issued a call to action: 'We urge everyone to get involved, take action and stand alongside Filipino organisations to organise, defend our communities and build the future we deserve.' With the bill's implementation, Filipino Americans find themselves at a critical crossroads – confronting not only sweeping legislative changes but also profound personal consequences for their families and communities. For many, the looming enactment of Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' marks a defining moment in their ongoing struggle for dignity, security and the American dream. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Stage Set For Nagpur's First CM Cup U-15 Wrestling Nationals
Nagpur: The indoor stadium of the Divisional Sports Complex in Mankapur is all decked up to host Nagpur's first Chief Minister's Cup U-15 National Wrestling Championship from Saturday. The Nagpur District Wrestling Association (NDWA) and the Wrestling Association of Maharashtra will jointly organise the two-day nationals under the aegis of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). As many as 750 wrestlers from 25 states have reached Nagpur, from where 30 top grapplers will be selected to represent India in the Asian Wrestling meet, slated to be played in Kyrgyzstan from July 5 to 13. The competition will be conducted in the Freestyle and Greco-Roman across various weight categories for boys and girls. On the opening day of the nationals, 15 gold medal bouts will be contested. Following the mandatory medical tests and weigh-ins in the morning session, the first bout in the qualifications and repechages will begin from 9.30 am. The formal inauguration of the national championship is scheduled for 5.30 pm. Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis will inaugurate the championship. On the occasion, MP Murlidhar Mohol, state sports minister Dattatray Bharne, guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, WFI President Sanjay Kumar Singh, and other officials will share the dais. Sandip Joshi, president of the organising committee and MLC, and secretary Piyush Ambulkar, stated that the stage is all set for the first-ever national championship in Nagpur. The organising committee decided to distribute prizes to champion wrestlers, marking the first time cash rewards would be awarded in any nationals. A total prizemoney of Rs7.5 lakh will be distributed to the podium finishers with the winner in each category taking home Rs 11,000 each.
Time of India
13-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Nagpur to host first U-15 wrestling nationals from june 20
1 2 Nagpur: For the first time ever, Nagpur is set to host a national wrestling competition. Nagpur District Wrestling Association (NDWA) and Wrestling Association of Maharashtra (WAM) will jointly organise the U-15 nationals at the indoor stadium of Divisional Sports Complex at Mankapur from June 20 to 22. From the three-day nationals, titled the Chief Minister's Cup, Indian U-15 teams will be selected. The championship will be conducted under the aegis of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). While briefing the media on Thursday, MLC and NDWA president Sandip Joshi said, "This is for the first time that Nagpur will host the U-15 national wrestling championship, where a total of 1,200 upcoming grapplers from across the country will be seen in action. The competition will be conducted in Freestyle and Greco-Roman in various weight categories for boys and girls." Joshi added, "WFI president Sanjay Kumar Singh will be the special guest for the competition. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, deputy CM Ajit Pawar, sports minister Dattatray Bharne, and guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule will also visit the venue during the competition." The boys' competition will be conducted in weight categories from 38 kg up to 85 kg, while the event for girls will be held in the 33 to 66 kg range in the Greco-Roman style. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trading CFD dengan Teknologi dan Kecepatan Lebih Baik IC Markets Mendaftar Undo WAM president of WAM Ramdas Tadas said, "Grapplers from 25 states affiliated with the WFI will be participating in the competition. The winners in all the weight categories will be selected to represent India in the forthcoming Asian Wrestling Meet slated to be played in Kyrgyzstan from July 5 to 13. " WAM secretary Yogesh Dodke added, "The future of Indian wrestlers will be selected from this meet. The Maharashtra contingent will be selected from the open trials slated in Pune from June 17." Sandip Joshi, president of the organising committee, and secretary Piyush Ambulkar added that Nagpur is known for its hospitality, and this will be the first time that prizes will be distributed to the champion wrestlers during the nationals. Follow more information on Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here . Get real-time live updates on rescue operations and check full list of passengers onboard AI 171 .
Yahoo
26-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
How Domestic Workers Have Been Impacted by the L.A. Fires
Employees of Hart Built Construction clean the streets of the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, Calif., on Jan. 14, 2025, in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire. Credit - Valerie Macon—AFP In the wake of the Palisades fire, Theresa is one of many domestic workers in Los Angeles trying to make ends meet after abruptly losing her job. Though she didn't personally live in the fire's path, she has worked as a house cleaner in the Pacific Palisades for eight years. Theresa says she does not know if her employer's home is still standing, as they have not responded to her since the fire broke out. Now, Theresa, who requested the use of a pseudonym, is awaiting payment for work completed before the blazes and struggling to figure out how to pay her bills and support her two children. The air quality is also causing concern. Theresa's nose has been bothering her and one of her children has asthma. Each night, she has to give her child a nebulizer treatment and has even had to take them to the emergency room. 'I understand that the focus is on people's losses right now, but how are they thinking about workers like me?' she says, speaking in her native Spanish. 'How are they [the government] thinking about the trauma that workers like me experienced that night when we had to leave the fires and try to get home to our children? How do we make sure something like this doesn't happen again?' Theresa is currently receiving guidance from Maegan Ortiz, the executive director of the non-profit Instituto de Educacion Popular del Sur de California (IDEPSCA), who assisted with translation during our conversation. Theresa is one of the many domestic workers in need of help since several wildfires torched over 50,000 acres and have so far left 28 dead. Tens of thousands of people were placed under evacuation orders, and more than 16,000 structures—including homes and businesses—have been destroyed in the fires. On Jan. 23, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a $2.5 billion bipartisan relief package to help Los Angeles recover and rebuild. But Ortiz says that it could take years for individual workers to regain their financial footing. After the Woolsey fire destroyed over 1,600 structures in November 2018, it took two years for workers employed in the area to not require additional assistance for basic needs like food, rent, and healthcare, according to tracking by IDEPSCA. Ortiz says that the impact this time around could be far worse. 'That was one fire. Now we're talking five [or more],' says Ortiz. 'The time to recover for this workforce is going to be a lot longer.' Theresa is among the domestic workers who have applied for grants for aid from IDEPSCA, which is an affiliate of the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA). Ai-jen Poo—president of the NDWA, which advocates for the over 2 million nannies, house cleaners, and home care workers in the United States—points out that Los Angeles has a large concentration of domestic workers. In moments like this, Poo says community support is of the utmost importance, especially since domestic labor is typically 'invisible work,' and often done by more vulnerable communities—the workforce is 'overwhelmingly' made up of women and immigrant populations. A study by UCLA, published on Jan. 15, showed that 85% of individuals employed as household workers in Los Angeles are Latino. And, among these individuals, 47% are self-employed, making them ineligible for unemployment benefits or formal protections such as paid leave. 'You could walk into any neighborhood in L.A. and not know which homes are also workplaces,' Poo says. 'There's a very long history of treating domestic workers differently from other workers, excluding them from basic rights and protections that other workers take for granted in the workplace.' For Anna Guerrero—who has spent decades working as a housekeeper for two homes in the Palisades—the reality of being without income and insurance has hit hard. Both of her employers lost their homes, and since she typically gets paid by the day, she's been without work since the fires began. All of this is exacerbated by her efforts in caring for her elderly mother and tending to her husband, who is due to have surgery later in the year. Her biggest need right now, she says, is regaining a steady source of income. 'At the end of the month, I still have to pay the rent and buy the food. Everything is expensive. Life is expensive,' she says. 'I'm not receiving any [financial support] right now. I'm just trying to figure it out as I go. There's a lot of people who lost their jobs, so it's been really hard to find work.' The predicament of Theresa and Anna is something Lucia Diaz, CEO of the Mar Vista Family Center in Culver City, is all too familiar with. She used to work as a housecleaner and nanny, and is currently supporting domestic workers at the center. Many of them have lost their jobs as the houses they worked at in the Palisades are no longer standing. Some of the workers who seek her help are undocumented, which she says provides another layer of problems, especially considering President Donald Trump's promised crackdown on immigration. 'There's a lot of fear in people. It's not easy to ask for a job, to apply for government assistance [when you are undocumented],' Diaz says. 'With the fires and all this political change, it's like two disasters happening at the same time.' There are also concerns about the health of workers who remained near the impacted areas, since wildfire smoke contains many pollutants and can lead to short and long term health problems when inhaled. Recently, California passed an expansion to California's Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) to include domestic employees who work through agencies—which according to the UCLA Labor Center is 84% of homecare attendants. These protections don't come into effect until later in 2025, though, so Poo says much of their current work is dedicated to advocating for the health and safety needs of domestic workers. Ortiz recalls anecdotes from domestic laborers during the aftermath of the Woolsey fire—workers being hired to put out fires, employers evacuating but leaving their household workers behind to care for pets, workers left behind to clean toxic ash. And with domestic laborers currently not covered under Cal-OSHA protections, Poo and Ortiz see their work of educating and advocating for household workers as more important than ever. 'This is a workforce with no safety net and no savings. People work paycheck to paycheck, and so [it's about] being able to afford food, water, clothing, and then getting access to information about health and safety and in the language they speak,' Poo says. Amid the blazes, NDWA and IDEPSCA have been providing information to workers about toxicity in the wake of the fires, PPE, temporary shelter, and transportation for evacuees. Ortiz says that IDEPSCA's office has become a 'distribution center' of everything from masks and water to diapers and hot meals. NDWA has set up a Domestic Worker Relief Fund for those workers affected by the fires. Poo says that emergency financial assistance funds such as this is the most immediate way people can help those that need aid. But many of the displaced laborers IDEPSCA and NDWA work with have been difficult to track down—some have evacuated out of Los Angeles with their clients, some remain in the city. They're only now in the 'forensic' stage of understanding how people have been impacted, Poo says, and the battle has just begun. Ortiz is especially thinking of her undocumented community members who have been displaced and may not be eligible for FEMA assistance. 'We're going to have to keep an eye out for keeping people housed,' she says, fearing that some may be scared to ask for help, and in their desperation, may be taken advantage of. 'Something we saw after Woolsey was a lot of people taking advantage of the undocumented workforce and underpaying them, if paying them at all,' Ortiz says. 'So that's something we're very concerned about, especially given the sort of anti-immigrant rhetoric that the federal government is promoting.' Still, Ortiz says that even if the outcomes from these fires are more devastating, the response from the community has been more heartwarming than she's seen in the past. Organizations in areas that were not impacted by the fires—like Westchester and Culver City—have been opening up food banks and floating donations to aid impacted workers, says Jesus Orozco, a community organizer who works for the city of LA. Orozco volunteers at the Mar Vista Family Center, which he points out was founded by Palisades residents in the 70s and continues to receive financial support from families in the area. But now, as many face down the cost of rebuilding, he worries that the organization might see a drop in support that allows them to provide critical services—from food banks to after-school programming. 'The YMCA, the Boys & Girls Clubs, all of them depend on philanthropists that live in these areas,' he says. 'Their primary focus is gonna be on rebuilding.' For Orozco, remembering the community is key. 'We're all feeling grief,' he says. 'No matter what socio-economic background we're from, we're all connected here.' Write to Simmone Shah at
