Keeping Relevant CUNY TV

Adrienne Kivelson, author of "What Makes New York City Run?" discusses NYC's history and major changes to its Charter, its Constitution. We are reminded that the Charter, received in 1898 - a little over 100 years ago - made New York-New York City. The 1979 financial disaster prompted significant bookkeeping changes. Over the years, Charters have broadened citizen participation, making New York City a more democratic City.

The Alliance of Families for Justice works to end mass incarceration by empowering families with formerly incarcerated loved ones seeking legal support, skills and voting rights. Soffiyah Elijah, afj’s tireless leader, discusses programs and campaigns.

Jerry Goldfeder makes clear the importance of NY’s vote this year, as it will determine who controls the House of Representatives. Gerrymandering, term-limits vs. for-life appointments for Supreme Court Justices discussed. Goldfeder urges all “Just Vote!”

The US imprisons more people than other countries in the world: long sentences-and many dying in prison. Guest describes ElderParole/Fair + Timely Parole bills to deal with mass incarceration, the bail and parole systems that promote perpetual punishment.

C. Virginia Fields leads the National Black Leadership Commission on Health towards health equity for the Black community. Fields names 8 areas affecting the Black community, saying more Black women die from maternity issues than any other group of women.

Win, the largest provider of family shelter and supportive housing in NYC, reports a “record number” of homelessness-families and children-needing shelter and services in NYC. Christine Quinn discusses long-term housing stability for families in need.