Jan's Plans & Pans - October 10, 2022
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Dear John xxxxxx,
Last week, President Biden announced he is pardoning all Americans who have been convicted of simple marijuana possession under federal law. The executive order will benefit 6,500 people with federal convictions. The criminalization of marijuana and this nation’s failed ‘War on Drugs’ has devastated our communities of color. People of color are four times more likely to be arrested on cannabis charges – and are often targeted for longer prison sentences. The House passed legislation in April that eliminates criminal penalties for an individual who manufactures, distributes, or possesses marijuana. The Senate must do the same.
I want to tell you about some human rights abuses that are occurring in Qatar in preparation for the 2022 FIFA Soccer World Cup. Since it was announced in 2010 that Qatar would be hosting this event, hundreds of thousands of migrant workers have been harmed. These workers were tasked with building seven new stadiums for the finals, a new airport, a new metro, and new roads, in very poor working conditions. I sent a letter, with 14 of my colleagues, to the President of FIFA. We are calling upon FIFA to establish a workers’ compensation fund prior to the tournament’s first whistle. I stand with workers in Qatar and around the world.
A federal appeals court in New Orleans recently ruled that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy violates U.S. immigration law. The US is the only home most DACA recipients know. This program provides deportation protection and work permits to nearly 600,000 immigrant "Dreamers" who lack legal status. This ruling is wrong to threaten hardworking young people's future. Congress must take action to provide DACA recipients with permanent protection and a path to citizenship.
Today and every day, let us honor and celebrate the history and customs of our Indigenous communities. We must continue to uplift Native voices and fight for Indigenous rights.
If you need any assistance from a federal agency, whether it be a Social Security problem, an immigration case, or a postal issue, just to name a few, my office is here to help. Head to my website for further assistance and information.
Have a great week!
Sincerely,
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