Yesterday we released our new report, Race Matters: Impact of the 2010-11 Executive Budget Proposal. The report, by our research and education affiliate, Public Policy and Education Fund of New York, is the second in as many years showing the implications that budget actions will have on racial disparities and communities of color in New York.
Race Matters covers key budget actions in five general issue areas: education, higher education, health care, human services, and criminal and juvenile justice. It also provides discussion of a series of revenue alternatives that could be used to help close the budget gap and not exacerbate disparities.
From the introduction:
While many New Yorkers of all races enjoy great education, professional and social success, the majority of people of color in the Empire State remain perilously stranded in the shadows of the American dream. Although both the nation and the state are led by accomplished people of color, the overall condition of people of color in New York is distressing, and the current national economic crisis and cuts in government programs only serve to further harm our communities.
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As we talk to people across the state, we find that New Yorkers want a just budget. Despite a projected deficit for Fiscal Year 2010-11 of over $9 billion, New Yorkers want a budget that lifts up everyone, especially those who are facing hard economic times, that protects communities and families in crisis, and that provides New Yorkers with a path toward economic recovery and a better future.
This year’s report highlights personal stories of folks who are directly impacted by the choices made about our state budget.
Stories from Jian Liu, Irsa Mahammed, Liz from Queens, and Terrence Robinson show the real world implications of cuts to programs that New Yorkers depend on, that create equality of opportunity and help those who are most vulnerable.
New York’s lawmakers have a clear choice. Our report identifies $2.5 billion in cuts that were included in the Executive Budget Proposal as being harmful to New York’s communities of color. We also offer revenue alternatives that would make up about $15 billion.
New York’s lawmakers can decide to ignore the needs of their constituents. Or, they can decide to strengthen our society, our economy, and our state’s future by restoring the proposed cuts.
A complete recording of the press conference held at the Capitol is provided below in 3-parts and pictures as well: