Requesting the Governors Intercession

To Prevent The Continued Decimation of Minority Representation

Date: Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Time: 11:00 AM

Location: Governor’s Office, 633 Third Ave, New York City

After an extensive investigation the New York State Division of Human Rights has determined that probable cause exists that a New York State Union, NYSCOBA, has engaged in or is engaging in unlawful discriminatory practices. National Latino Officers Association Board Member and Vice President of NYSCOBA Willie Perez was the victim who filed the complaint with NYS Division of Human Rights which resulted in a probable cause finding.

Willie Perez is the only Hispanic ever elected by the members to the Union Executive Board. Over a three year period he has worked in a hostile and racially charged environment, being subjected to direct threats and stripped of access to information and resources to serve the members of the union.

When Mr. Perez requested the Union to defend members with claims of discrimination against the New York State Department of Corrections, Executive Vice President of NYSCOBA stated “we have to be careful because we don’t want every mutt who feels he is discriminated to come forward and request a lawsuit bankrupting this Union”.

By not taking action, the New York State Department of Corrections demonstrates complacency by condoning the discrimination. NYSCOBA boasts of its ties and influence in the Office of the Governor and their continued ability to have cases filed in New York City transferred to the Albany Office of the Department of Human Rights. NYSCOBA has contributed millions of dollars in political contributions to silence the agency and operate with impunity.

As a result of NYSCOBA’s position, the Department of Corrections continues its discriminatory practices. This agency has over 25,000 officers, however it only has approximately 2200 African Americans and 630 Hispanics. This comprises less than 10% of the agency. At the current rate of attrition minorities at the Executive level will be less than 1%.

The lack of concern and adherence to the very basic protections of Equal Employment Opportunity Regulations supports the idea of an agency focused on white dominance. The pattern and practice of discrimination within the agency is critical at this time. We request that the Governor take immediate corrective action and initiate a formal investigation. Willie Perez, NYSCOBA Vice President, and other victims will be present at the press conference to answer questions and provide additional documentation of the allegations presented.

For more information contact (646) 772-3728.