WHEREAS:

September 11th was a tragedy that affected the nation as a whole, and New Yorkers in particular; and

WHEREAS:

Unemployment, housing and a lack of health coverage are plaguing New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS:

Between December 2001 and December 2002, 56,100 jobs were lost in New York City; and

WHEREAS:

There have been increases in respiratory illnesses and illnesses in babies born post 9/11; and

WHEREAS:

The ability to maintain employment and the ability to maintain housing are closely linked, and homelessness is rising in New York City; and

WHEREAS:

Over 500,000 families in New York City are paying more than half of their income in rent; and

WHEREAS:

Post 9/11 the government has been able to allocate funds towards harassing immigrants, yet incessantly cuts social services; and

WHEREAS:

The labor of immigrant workers has been essential yet poorly compensated; and

WHEREAS:

Community Development Block Grant Funds of $1.2 billion have not yet been spent, but could potentially be allocated for use to build a rail link.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME states that it supports use of the $1.2 billion CDBG monies to create low-income housing, jobs and healthcare coverage for New Yorkers; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That monies used for the above issues include assistance for all New Yorkers, regardless of immigration status; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That we call on the unions' members to contact Governor Pataki, Senator Bruno, Senator Schumer and the Lower Manhattan Development Committee to urge them to use all 9/11 funds to help the most needy New Yorkers.

SUBMITTED BY:

Norman Taylor, President and Delegate
Amun Ankhra, Recording Secretary
AFSCME Local 215, Council 1707
New York