New Administration, Old Problems

(April 2007)

Barb Dougan and Eleanor Newhoff, issue editors, write:

In this issue of Mass Dissent, we take a look at the incoming Patrick Administration, new issues before Congress, proposed state legislation and recent events in New Bedford.
On page 7, Eleanor Newhoff gives us a comprehensive article on immigration initiatives at the state and federal level, including in-state tuition, use of the State Police to enforce federal immigration law, driver’s licenses and proposed ID cards, and healthcare coverage.

As one of the lawyers assisting detainees, on page 10 Eleanor also describes the March 6 raid in New Bedford at the Michael Bianco factory. Over 360 workers, mainly Central American women, were arrested and many were sent out of state before their needs or the needs of their families were assessed. One of the speakers at the Copley Square rally in support of the workers put it well: border terrorism moved north to Massachusetts that day.

It is always gratifying when a well-respected community activist’s efforts become “official.” Ron Bell left his 14 years of organizing and voting rights work in 2006 to become the deputy director of Deval Patrick’s campaign. On page 8 he describes for us the newly created Public Liaison Office and his role as its first Director.

The text of bills filed for the upcoming legislative session became available in March. Barb Dougan describes a number of them on page 5, including several constitutional amendments.
Finally, the NLG Massachusetts Chapter has a new administration, too. If you couldn’t attend, read about our Annual Meeting and elections on page 4. We also share with you pictures (page 9) from the Chapter’s Mentorship Brunch held at Nancy Kelly and John Willshire-Carrera’s. Hope to see you at the next one in the fall.

To read the complete newsletter, join the Guild or order a subscription today.