Government
Public services and government action
South Providence Neighborhood Association Report: Alarming Human Safety Concerns at Crossroads
The South Providence Neighborhood Association (SPNA) has released a community safety report highlighting the lack of services being provided around Crossroads Rhode Island.
A Second Chance: Judge Rules 'Mario’s Law' Applicable to Monteiro, Advocates Hail Victory for Youth Offenders"
In a landmark decision, Judge Stephen Nugent ruled that Mario Monteiro, sentenced to two life sentences for a murder committed at 17, is eligible for parole under 'Mario’s Law.' The ruling upholds the intent of the legislation, providing a second chance to young offenders serving lengthy sentences.
Unsheltered in Providence: Armory Shutdown Leaves Many Homeless With Nowhere to Go
With the closure of the Cranston Street Armory Warming Station, the homeless crisis in Providence deepens. Despite new shelter options, many people find themselves left out on the streets, exposing the harsh realities of Rhode Island's housing crisis.
Solitary Confinement Tragedies Expose Flaws in Rhode Island’s Prison System
Three suicides at ACI in Rhode Island spotlight the urgent need for reform in solitary confinement policies. Families, advocates, and lawmakers rally, calling for justice and an end to what many see as systemic torture within the prison system.
Advocates call on Providence Mayor Smiley to take action on homelessness
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley has been slow to deal with the crisis of homelessness in the City, and has not committed to serious efforts to help those in need, say protesters.
Smithfield School Committee Meeting Sees Opposition to Proposed Policy Outing Trans Students to Parents
Over 100 people, including students, attended a Smithfield School Committee meeting to address the proposed policy that would mandate outing trans students to their parents. Multiple students spoke out against the policy, citing the potential for harmful consequences, the importance of trust between students and teachers, and the need for privacy.
Rally Against Negligent Providence Landlords Highlights Health Hazards, Calls for Tenant Protections
Members and allies of POWR (Providence Organization of Workers and Renters) protested against Providence Apartments LLC, accusing the landlord of negligence that has led to children suffering from lead poisoning and other health risks. The protest demanded rent freezes, rent stabilization, tenant protections, and better housing conditions.
Vigil Outside Wyatt Detention Facility Honors Lives Lost in Detention and Incarceration
Two dozen people gathered outside the Wyatt Detention Facility to honor the lives lost in detention and incarceration, including the 38 individuals who died in a fire at an immigration detention center in Ciudad Juarez. Organized by AMOR, the vigil called for an end to the violence of border enforcement and the system dividing humanity.
Black Lives Matter RI PAC Protests Against Police Officer's Reinstatement and LEOBoR
The Black Lives Matter Rhode Island PAC protested against the reinstatement of a police officer who was filmed assaulting a State Senate candidate. The officer faced only a 10-day suspension instead of termination, thanks to the Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights (LEOBoR), which the group is now calling for the repeal of.
RI House Passes Equality in Abortion Coverage Act: A Step Towards Equitable Healthcare
The Rhode Island House of Representatives passed the Equality in Abortion Coverage Act (EACA), ensuring Medicaid and state health insurance plan coverage for abortion procedures. The bill, backed by the majority of Rhode Islanders, now moves to the State Senate, where it's expected to pass.