Update

Please excuse my lack of updating. A lot has been going on in my world. The good news is that I am now employed.

There is a lot that I could go into on the negative side of things, but I won't right now. Suffice it to say that the fight is constant and ongoing. Dealing with the psychological state of people in this society can sometimes be draining.

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I am continuing to pursue a career in journalism, videography, and photography. I now have a membership with AOC (Acadiana Open Channel), so i can attend all the classes for free and learn a lot in the area of TV production. I haven't been able to attend classes like I'd like, but I will be able to soon. Then I intend to produce or at least host some shows on AOC where I will speak of the condition of the black communities here in Lafayette. There's so much to be addressed.

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A couple weeks ago I went to file a complaint against a cop for false arrest (criminal trespassing) in a case that started in September of 2009. I didn't go to court for it until May 5 of this year. The case was thrown out of court, and I figured I needed to file the complaint--which I hadn't--before it was too late. Who knew that it would be "and act of congress" to do so. The officer who I had to meet with to file the complaint was completely resistant to my doing so. it took a good 20 minutes before I wore him down--being calm and repectful despite his rudeness--and was finally able to fill out the form to file the complaint. I guess I can't really expect anything better. It's really a trip around here where law enforcement is concerned anyway.

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Despite all of the drama, things are working out pretty well for me, and I can only be grateful for those who came before me, the most high, and all those who support me and take an interest in my progress.

Peace.

Cajuns in Rage

Lafayette likes to use to phrase "Ragin' Cajun" to describe the university and several others aspects of this town's culture. Well, today I had a chance to witness Cajuns who were truly in rage.

Today I attended to moritorium protest at the Cajun Dome here in Lafayette. Upon arriving I went inside to take notes on just what was being said and to get a feeling of the vibe. It wasn't good at all. Beyond on the fact that I was being watched and followed by security the entire time, I got a chance to witness unperceived racism at its finest. The best of it was still to come, though.

After staying inside for a while, I moved outside to join those who were stationed at the corner of a busy intersection near the dome who were in support of Pres. Obama and the moritorium. Anywhere where black people are protesting or standing for a relevant cause, I feel it is my duty to be there among them. I grabbed 2 signs and got to work.

The racial slurs coming from those passing in cars were plenty but not at all unexpected.

Naturally, somebody paid to have a big crane across the street from where we were with a sign that read "Lift the Moritorium". See above.

(I can be seen in these final two photos in black attire.)

I was glad to have assisted but wished there were more men there to secure the area for those out there.

Rejection

I learned yesterday that I have been deemed inelegible for the state vocational rehabilitation program. I'll be appealing their decision, which as far as I'm concerned is discriminatory and unjustified.

My "case worker" rejected me from the beginning, when I entered her office speaking ideas that she'd likely never heard from any of her "clients". I could tell she did not like me and is probably glad to berid of me. But we'll will meet again in the appeals process.

Systematic

For some time now I have been looking into having my record expunged so that the felonies that are on there can't be used against me when I go to apply for work. I'd been told by a lawyer that the court costs were between $200-$300 per felony. Well, I called the courthouse last week to get an exact amount and learned that it's actually $400 per felony. I've got several on my record and am looking at over $2000 to have them expunged.

I was thinking that some may affect my ability to be employed more than others, so maybe I can just have those expunged. Either way, though, it's an expensive process. It's amazing how to criminal/legal system is set up and works. I know that, at the end of the day, it's all about a dollar.



Beyond that, I received some great information and leads from a local pastor. Some are very useful towards finding a "regular job" and others are specific to securing a position in the area in which I hope to create a career: filming and t.v. production.

This Monday I'll be attending a job fair as well as looking into some of his leads.

Watch

This is a video containing subject matter that I can definitely relate to. I was given a copy of the presentation and then found out that it is also on Youtube. I ask that you watch the video with open eyes (all 3) and ears.

Developments

I went to the appointment last Monday for the rehabilitation program, and it was pretty interesting to say the least. I really don't think the worker was prepared for all I had to say, but it was all the truth and a factual representation of my life.

Honestly., it doesn't seen that the "workers" in these state programs are always prepared to work. I believe they have a formula and a systematic way that they're used to doing things. When someone comes in who forces them to go outside of what they're used to doing, they're caught off gaurd.

It went well overall, and I'll be going through a series of assessments and eveluations all in accordance with that particular program.

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Thankfully a few opportunities for me to make some money have come up within the last week or so. They're probably temporary, though, so I'll still be on the search for something.

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A very interesting development took place last week in relation to my job hunt. It's not shocking to me at all, though. Such behavior is to be expected out of certain individuals.

More to come on that.

Appointment

On Monday I have an appointment to meet with a state worker in order for me to enter into a vocational rehabilitation program. I'm not sure what to expect but am looking forward to it for various reasons (which I look forward to discussing here in the future).

The main point of it all is that I will not be going in there as someone who doesn't know what they want or as someone who's going to just be pulled this way and that way by a state program. I know my strengths, weaknesses, capabilities, and the areas where I like ability. I'm seeking assistance and know the type I need.

This is a program that individuals are usually referred to by some other agency or program. However, I called a few weeks ago and referred myself. I think it's going to be very interesting. I'll be documenting everything here.

Victory

Court was today and the trespassing charge was completely thrown out along with one of the tickets. I want to extend my thanks to all who showed their support in the form of donations, words of encouragement, and prayers.

This is just a brief update. I will return soon with more thoughts...

Work

On Tuesday I sent out a massive email to various individuals informing them of my situation. In the email I included a version of the letter posted here, making it known that I was available to whatever work they may have that I could perform in order to obtain the funds I need by my court date on the 5th. That same day I received a reply from I respect and admire greatly who let me know that she definitely had work that needed to be done and that she would pay me $325 to do it. Today I began the job which includes cleaning out a rental house that was left disastrous. I got most of the inside done today. Tomorrow I'll finish and began the front/back yard clean up.

I grew up in a household where I was forced to constantly clean, clean, clean so work like this is not foreign to me at all. I'm really good at it, actually. Doing this work for her makes me realize that this is something I could do as regular emplyment. It's just a matter of finding houses to clean, so I'll make it known here:

If you or anyone you know has the need for someone to go into a house or space and clean it out, restoring it to it's regular state, that someone can be me. Please send me an email at sjs7913@yahoo.com.

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In other news, I had an inteview today for a painting job. I guess it went well, although I was unable to fill out the application completely. Blame it on lack of standard education and inability to spell certain words. The guy was nice though, so we'll see.

Video Production

Since a very young age I have had an interest in film and photography. As a child I would always put images together and snap shots of various scenes. These days I not only film thoroughout the community, but I also take pictures of and video different events. In addition to community work and activism, this is a true passion of mine, and I would like to advance my skills. Getting a job in the field of video production would be ideal for me. In January I applied for a part-time production assistant position with KLFY-TV 10 (local station), however the position had been filled before the human resources department received my resume. Well, today it was brought to my attention that the position has been reopened. I have resubmitted my information and will hopefully get an interview soon.

I will not let the fact that I lack "standard education" or have a felonious record prevent me from pursuing this opportunity. Before I ever engaged in any negative activities that led to incarceration and a criminal record, I had hobbies, interests and dreams, and they related to photography and film production. Now that I'm on the other side of the drama and deviant behavior, I still have this same interest. Only now I am more able and have more of a stable mindset to pursue it.

As referenced above, I do have a resume which is as follows:


OBJECTIVE
To secure a position with a local television station in order to advance my skills in video production.
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
Hands on experience in armature video recording, photography, and editing. Thorough background in group leadership and communication of ideas, techniques, and plans of action. Possess drive, ambition, and vision necessary to be successful at any given responsibility.
SKILLS
Technology
Extensive experience in the operation of video recorder and handling of footage
Ability to quickly and efficiently pick up technological procedures and techniques as they are explained or made aware to me
Understanding of the importance of proper on-camera awareness and readiness
Communication
Extensive background in working with individuals in an effort to reach a certain goal
Able to effectively listen to concerns and feedback from others and determine relevant solutions or responses
Possession of superb listening and speaking skills that are useful in communicative
environments
Organizational
Possess ability to effectively organize tasks so they are conducive to smooth operation of environment
Knowledgeable of multi-tasking techniques suitable to a given situation
Formal training in formation that is easily translatable to a variety of circumstances
COMMUNITY AND VOLUNTEERING
NAACP -Videographer and Secretary, January 2010-Present
Responsible for video and photographic documentation of meetings and community events; perform general duties necessary for progression of the organization’s mission and purpose.
Acadiana Open Channel-Studio Volunteer, August 2007-Present
Occasionally assist in organization and dismantling of sets for station programs
WORK EXPERIENCE
Umoja Books and Products--Independent Sales Representative
2009-Present
Bateman Food and Nutrition--Cook, Product Preparation, and Delivery Driver
2007-2008
Daily Advertiser--Packaging Supervisor
2000-2001
Coach USA--Diesel Mechanic
1998-1999
EDUCATION
Basic mathematical, English, reading, and advanced comprehension skills
References are available upon request.



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*Name and contact info intentionally omitted.

Trespassing

In my last post I shared a letter that makes mention of a trespassing case that I'm currently fighting. Only moments before being arresting on so-called trespassing charges, I was filming/documenting an incident that was going on. I have footage of the cops approaching me, however, I am not too computer literate and will have to get help adding it to my post. In the meantime, I wanted to share still shots that I have from that day. These shots were created from the video footage.

(Police officer being alerted of my presence by the cop in the background)







(On their way to where I am)

These photos reflect how the events transpired that day which led to my arrest. I was filming, as I always did, and once the police officers became aware of my presence, they ame over to question and eventually arrest me. I was released and not taken into custody, however I still have the tresspassing charge that I am fighting. I just wanted to share these images to shed more light on the situation.

Update

Since my last post I discovered a vocational rehabilitation program that I believe will be able to assist me with the services I am seeking. I'm not sure if they offer educational testing, though, so I would still like to get donations for that or information on a place where I can get a thorough educational assessment free of charge or for a lower cost.

As of late I've been seeking employement and have applied at various places in Lafayette. Hopefully something will come up soon.

In early May I have to attend court for traffic tickets I received back in November. On that same day I'll be on trial for a criminal tresspassing charge. The charge is frivilous, and I think it's retaliation for the type f community work I've done. With assistance, I've come up with a letter that I will be taking around to local businesses in hope that I can get some kind of work that will pay me $325 by my court date so that I do not have to go to jail for inability to pay those tickets! The tresspassing fine is $130, however I hope to have that thrown out of court. I've got plenty of evidence for a case against it including video (on the day i was arrested for tresspassing, I was filming an incident that was going on), pictures, and proof that local police have something against me for my community activities.

I've also placed another donation tab at the top of my blog for the tickets. If you are moved to donate, please do so. Also, if you know of a (legit and legal!) way that I can make the money by May 3, please let me know.


Here is the letter:



Dear Business Owner:

I come to you as a native and life long resident of Lafayette asking for your help. On May 5, 2010, I will be attending court for traffic tickets obtained in September 2009. This tickets equal a total dollar amount of $325. As someone who is currently unemployed, I have been struggling to accumulate the funds needed to satisfy this debt. Should I not acquire the necessary monetary amount, I will undoubtedly be facing jail time.

My reason for writing is to inquire about any opportunities you may have for me to work--if only for a short period of time--to earn the amount needed to pay the tickets. Duties that I am able to perform include heavy lifting, moving of furniture or merchandise, cleaning, yard and landscape work, painting, and various other activities as desired. I ask that if you do have any work available that I may perform, please allow me to do so in order to pay my fines.

As a community activist and fighter for justice, I have a long history of filming and documenting injustice in order to make people aware of just what takes place in black areas. It is for these reasons that I believe I am the target of police harassment and retaliation. Prior to receiving the tickets, I was arrested and charged with criminal trespassing as I filmed an incident occurring in a local apartment complex. On the same date that I will attend court for the tickets, I will also be of trial for the trespassing charge. With the help of a local attorney, I am looking to have that charge dismissed. I contend that I was issued traffic tickets--all of which are frivolous--as an attack by local officers who know and do not like the type of work that I do in and for the community. The actions taken against me by local police give credence to the adage that people fear what they do not understand. I have found that hate grows out of fear, so that I can not dismiss the possibility that I am not highly favored by at least some of the individuals who comprise the Lafayette police force.


Please feel free to call me at __________. You can also reach me at ___________________. If you wish to simply make donations to my cause, you can do so on my blog at rahimonline.blogspot.com. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

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*Phone number and email address intentionally omitted from online posting of letter*********

I was expecting to have become employed within the last month, but things didn't work out how I intended, etc., etc. If I find some kind of gig within these next couple of weeks, then maybe I can make the money in time for court. If not, I want to have some kind of back-up plan, one of which is appealing to those in my community and elsewhere for assistance in any form that it can be given.

It must be made known that I have a strong entrepreneurial mentality which I hae exercised on a consistent basis. However, due to nearly a month of being ill with and recovering from the flu, as of late I have not been as active towards that end. Therefore, I will gladly take (just about) any work I can get if only for the sake of paying these tickets and not being locked up!

I would still like to have the educational assessment, however, at this time I realize these tickets are more urgent.

I'll continue to update with any new occurences.

Greetings

I have started this blog in order to share my life experiences as well as document my current journey towards a better life.

Recently I submitted a letter to The Daily Advertiser, a newspaper here in Lafayette, LA. Below you will find the letter in it's entirety. I had to shorten it for the paper, since they only accept 200 words or less.

Basically, I am in the process of securing any resources I can--financial or otherwise--in order to receive a very thorough educational evaluation by a local consultant. Seeing as how I only progressed to the 6th grade in school, was what they call a "special Ed" student, and currently function with very little education and understanding of even just the basics of how this society operates, I believe that having this assessment done will be a great first step to getting me where I need to be.

The full letter reads as follows:


To All Concerned individuals of Lafayette and the Surrounding Areas:

I come to you as a native and life-long resident of Lafayette seeking your understanding and assistance.

Given the circumstances of my childhood and experiences that grew out of those circumstances, my current status in this society is essentially one of an outcast. Unlike many of you who are educated, gainfully employed, or otherwise possess keys that open to doors of opportunities in this society, I have little to no access to the very basic necessities that afford one with opportunities for advancement or proression. Due to a harsh upbringing and a life spent in and out of incarceration, I fnd myself in a position where I am not only lack a standard education, but I also struggle to find employment because of a felonious record. Please understand that I take full responsibility for any actions that placed me in unfavorable situations in during my former lifestyle. My intention is not to make excuses or to receive sympathy from others. I simply aim to improve the quality of my life as well as the lives of my children, who will benefit from their father's upliftment.

Currently my goal and focus is on self-rehabilitation. Towards this aim I am seeking the assistance of a local educational consultant so that I can be evaluated and assessed in regards to my educational strengths and weaknesses. Further, this evaluation will reveal any learning disabilities that I may suffer from. I was removed from N.P. Moss Middle School during the 1980s when I was in the sixth grade and placed in a local juvenile detention home. I look forward to preparing for and taking the GED. Once I receive this evaluation, I will better understand my educational standing, and I will better be able to determine what it is that I should work to improve and also what areas I exhibit some level of strength in.

In order to afford to receive this evaluation, I need your assistance. The cost of the entire process is $925. Once the amount has been accumulated, then I can proceed with my testing. I understand if there are those who are reluctant to donate because they might not be convinced that the funds will go towards the cause. However, I can only give my word that it is so and say that I am open to any other suggestions or ways that the money can be accumulated while maintaining the trust of the donator. You can also get more information about the facility where I hope to have the testing done by visiting the following website:

http://cynthialanier.com/

Your time and consideration is greatly appreciated.

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Due to the limited space, here is the abbreviated letter that I sent instead:

Dear Readers:

I come to you as a native and life-long resident of Lafayette seeking your understanding and assistance.

Unlike many who possess keys to success in this society, I have little access to basic necessities that allow opportunities for advancement. Due to a harsh upbringing and life in and out of incarceration, I now lack education and struggle to find employment because of a felonious record. I do take full responsibility for any actions that placed me in unfavorable situations during my former lifestyle. I wish not to make excuses but simply aim to improve my life and the lives of my children.

I am seeking the assistance of an educational consultant so that I can be evaluated on my strengths and weaknesses and become aware of any learning disabilities. I was removed from N.P. Moss Middle School during the 1980s when I was in the sixth grade and placed in a local juvenile detention home. I hope to rectify a lack of a high school dimploma by obtaining a GED.
Please contact me with any information and resources that can be of help. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank You.

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The letter was submitted on Monday, April 19, 2010, and I'm not sure when it will run, but I just had to send it in order to begin the process of my rehabilitation.

Now, I want to make it known that my primary reason for using that particular educational evaluation company is because that's the only one I've found locally. I have done research on this and have found that this is the only company who provides this service here in Lafayette. So, if anyone has information to the contrary, please let me know. If there is a free testing center or one that is less expensive that I am not aware of, please let it be known. I am open to all suggestions in regards to this matter.

I look forward to connecting with my readers and moving forward with this journey.

*Note: assistance was received with the organization and typing of this post.