Connect with us

#NNPA BlackPress

Members of Congress Demand Answers About California DMV $50M Personal Data Sale

Published

on

When news broke about Facebook collaborating with data mining companies during the run-up to the 2016 presidential election, it may have broken the dam. Now almost four years later, more citizens are raising concerns about their data and who’s sharing it.

Several members of California’s delegation to the U.S. Congress, including Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-13), who is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, are demanding information from the California Dept. of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They say the DMV has been selling California drivers’ personal data.

According to Motherboard, a tech publication that is part of the Vice network, DMV generates about $50 million a year from selling drivers’ data.

“We’re troubled by press reports about the California DMV’s disclosure of vast quantities of data which could enable invasive biometric policing and be a symptom of a deeper privacy malady,” said the letter addressed to Steve Gordon, director of DMV.

“The California DMV receives more than $50 million annually from selling the personal information of Californians, according to press reports. The individuals whose data are being sold are reportedly not informed of this practice or given the opportunity to opt-out. What information is being sold, to whom it is sold, and what guardrails are associated with the sale remain unclear.”

Eleven U.S. Representatives from California signed the letter including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-12) and Hon. David S. Kim, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency.

The letter also addressed concerns about data possibly being shared with federal agencies such as Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the FBI. Since California allows undocumented immigrants to gain driver’s licenses, their personal data may be used by ICE to track and deport people in the country illegally.

“What types of organizations has the DMV disclosed drivers’ data to in the past three years? In particular, has the DMV sold or otherwise disclosed data to debt collection agencies, private investigators, data brokers, or law enforcement agencies?” the letter inquired.

According to a statement responding to the letter, the DMV says the money generated from the data sale helps offset some of the agency’s operating costs.

The practice is not confined to California. Both Virginia and Wisconsin DMVs also sell drivers’ personal data. The practice is sanctioned under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), which was passed in the 1990s.

“In this day and age, unfortunately, government entities don’t resist the lure of selling Americans’ personal information for private exploitation. This problem will only get worse as cities, trying to be ‘smart,’ collect more information about what we do and where we go,” said Lee Tien, senior staff attorney at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, in an e-mail to Motherboard.

 

Manny Otiko | California Black Media

Manny Otiko | California Black Media

#NNPA BlackPress

OP-ED: The Illusion of Allyship. White Women, Your Yard Signs Mean Nothing to Me

NNPA NEWSWIRE – “The blue bracelets are something White women are wearing so others can see that they didn’t vote for Trump,” says Liberal Lisa from Oklahoma on X. Chile, bye. These bracelets are hollow symbols, empty gestures that mean nothing to me. An accessory to claim distance from Trump’s legacy is superficial comfort, while the choice to not stand with us in the voting booth is far more profound.

Published

on

Political yard signs can symbolize intentions and allegiance. But this year, they’ve also symbolized betrayal. During this general election, Black women were led to believe that more White women would stand with us. Exit polls, however, told a different story. Despite overwhelming displays of support, more White women still chose to vote for the convicted felon, reality TV star, and rapist. White women answered the call but left us hanging at the polls.

A Familiar Disappointment

I live in DeKalb County, Georgia, and the abundance of Harris-Walz yard signs could’ve fooled me. But I’ve seen this before, back when Stacey Abrams ran for governor. White women showed up, put up signs, attended rallies, knocked on doors, and phone-banked. Yet, when it came time to vote, they let us down—not once but twice. I’ve been here for over 15 years, and if there’s one thing I know, it’s that political signs are symbols without weight.

In every election, I’ve talked with White women. Most aren’t the primary earners in their families and vote along party lines, aligning with the preferences of their fathers and husbands. These conversations reveal a reluctance to break from tradition, even when their votes affect women and certainly when their votes impact the lives of people who look like me.

The Illusion of Solidarity—Symbols Are Not Enough

On social media, I’m seeing White women posting pictures of blue bracelets to “prove” they didn’t vote for Trump. “The blue bracelets are something White women are wearing so others can see that they didn’t vote for Trump,” says Liberal Lisa from Oklahoma on X. Chile, bye. These bracelets are hollow symbols, empty gestures that mean nothing to me. An accessory to claim distance from Trump’s legacy is superficial comfort, while the choice to not stand with us in the voting booth is far more profound.

I’ve seen Black Lives Matter signs and black squares posted on Instagram to “prove” support for Black people, but we now know that was a lie, too. Will those same people who claimed Black lives mattered now take down their Harris-Walz signs and show their true selves?

Navigating these truths is a daily struggle for me—professionally and socially. White women often misuse their privilege, supporting us only when it’s convenient. Seeing overqualified Black women sabotaged or abandoned by White women at critical moments is a constant emotional challenge. It’s exhausting to live with this reality, especially when solidarity seems like something they pick up and discard at will.

One clever campaign ad from Harris-Walz that spoke directly to White women. “Your Vote, Your Choice” emphasized that their vote was private—independent of their household situation. Another was from Olivia Howell Dreizen, the “Vote Without Fear” campaign, which empowered women to consider the greater impact of their choices. But it seems many still couldn’t choose the roadmap to freedom—even when it was handed to them.

A Call for Action Beyond Words

White women, I want to believe you care, but actions speak louder than yard signs, bracelets, or Instagram posts. Show up in our communities, advocate in your workplaces, and stand up to dismantle the structures that uphold white supremacy. Only through real action will we know where you stand.

If you choose not to act, we see you—and we know exactly where you stand. Good luck these next four years.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of BlackPressUSA.com or the National Newspaper Publishers Association.

 

 

Continue Reading

#NNPA BlackPress

Supernova Parenting Conference Empowers Over 100 Parents with Resources for Neurodivergence and Mental Health

The inaugural Supernova Parenting Conference was co-hosted by Natasha Nelson, known as Supernova Momma, and Yolanda Walker, founder of Parenting Decolonized. It brought together over 100 parents, caregivers, and educators dedicated to fostering understanding and support for neurodivergent children and mental health challenges. The conference provided invaluable resources, expert insights, and a collaborative space for […]

Published

on

The inaugural Supernova Parenting Conference was co-hosted by Natasha Nelson, known as Supernova Momma, and Yolanda Walker, founder of Parenting Decolonized. It brought together over 100 parents, caregivers, and educators dedicated to fostering understanding and support for neurodivergent children and mental health challenges. The conference provided invaluable resources, expert insights, and a collaborative space for connection, marking a significant step toward creating a more inclusive parenting community.

The event featured a variety of workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches from leading experts in neurodiversity and mental health. Attendees left with practical tools and strategies to enhance their parenting journeys, emphasizing the importance of understanding and supporting the unique needs of neurodivergent children.

“While the conference was a tremendous success, we believe that our work doesn’t end here,” said Natasha Nelson. “It’s crucial to continue providing ongoing support and resources for parents as they navigate this important journey. We want to ensure families can access the tools they need long after the conference.”

To extend the momentum generated at the conference, Natasha and Yolanda are excited to announce the launch of the Supernova Parenting Community. This membership-based initiative aims to offer a safe and supportive environment for parents and caregivers to continue their growth as conscious parents.

Membership is available for as little as $5 a month via Patreon, making it accessible for all families seeking support.

“We know that parenting can be a challenging journey, especially when navigating neurodivergence and mental health issues,” Yolanda Walker added. “Our goal is to build a community where parents feel seen, heard, and supported. We hope you’ll join us in this vital work.”

For more information about the Supernova Parenting Community and to sign up for membership, please visit supernovaparenting.org

Continue Reading

#NNPA BlackPress

Election Night on The Yard at Howard University

Election Night on The Yard at Howard University

Published

on

By

[This post contains video, click to play]

 

Continue Reading

Subscribe to receive news and updates from the Oakland Post

* indicates required

CHECK OUT THE LATEST ISSUE OF THE OAKLAND POST

ADVERTISEMENT

WORK FROM HOME

Home-based business with potential monthly income of $10K+ per month. A proven training system and website provided to maximize business effectiveness. Perfect job to earn side and primary income. Contact Lynne for more details: Lynne4npusa@gmail.com 800-334-0540

Facebook

Activism3 hours ago

Oakland Post: Week of November 6 – 12, 2024

#NNPA BlackPress6 hours ago

OP-ED: The Illusion of Allyship. White Women, Your Yard Signs Mean Nothing to Me

#NNPA BlackPress2 days ago

Supernova Parenting Conference Empowers Over 100 Parents with Resources for Neurodivergence and Mental Health

#NNPA BlackPress4 days ago

Election Night on The Yard at Howard University

#NNPA BlackPress4 days ago

LIVE! — 2024 ELECTION – TAP IN WITH THE BLACK PRESS

#NNPA BlackPress4 days ago

DOJ Targets Elder Fraud and Nursing Home Abuse in Sweeping Nationwide Actions

#NNPA BlackPress4 days ago

Supreme Court Sides with MAGA And Greenlights Virginia’s Voter Purge Program

#NNPA BlackPress4 days ago

Justice Department Expands Protections for Voting Rights and Election Integrity Ahead of Upcoming Elections

#NNPA BlackPress4 days ago

IN MEMORIAM: Quincy Jones: Music Titan and Trailblazer Dies at 91

#NNPA BlackPress5 days ago

OP-ED: Why this Black Man Proudly Supports Kamala Harris

Kieron Slaughter. Photo courtesy of the City of San Pablo
City Government5 days ago

San Pablo Appoints New Economic Development and Housing Manager

Richmond Fire Department Chief Aaron Osorio. Courtesy photo.
City Government5 days ago

Aaron Osorio Rises Up Ranks to Become Richmond’s Fire Chief

Congresswoman Barbara Lee
Barbara Lee5 days ago

Congresswoman Barbara Lee Reflects on Historic Moment Less Than One Week from Election Day

Mayor Sheng Thao
Bay Area5 days ago

Oakland Awarded $28 Million Grant from Governor Newsom to Sustain Long-Term Solutions Addressing Homelessness

Alameda County Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Kassan. Courtesy photo.
Bay Area5 days ago

Pamela Price Appoints Deputy D.A. Jennifer Kassan as New Director of Community Support Bureau

Activism1 month ago

Oakland Post: Week of September 25 – October 1, 2024

Some of the leaders who spoke at the Respect Our Vote – No Recalls!” mass meeting were (left to right): Elaine Peng, Mariano Contreras, Pastor Servant B.K. Woodson, and Stewart Chen. Photo by Ken Epstein.
Activism1 month ago

‘Respect Our Vote’ Mass Meeting Rejects Oakland, Alameda County Recalls

Photo courtesy of Dana Lang.
Bay Area1 month ago

Former Mayor Willie L. Brown Endorses Dana Lang for BART Board District 7

The encampment policy prohibits camps in “high sensitivity areas” such as schools, businesses, walkways, recreational centers, and parks.
Bay Area1 month ago

Mayor Sheng Thao Issues Executive Order to Shut Down Homeless Encampments

iStock Photo
California Black Media1 month ago

Study: UC 4-Year Grad Rate Doubles That of CSU

iStock
Business1 month ago

Google’s New Deal with California Lawmakers and Publishers Will Fund Newsrooms, Explore AI

Alameda County Democratic Party Chair Igor Tregub explained their club's recall position by saying, "Mayor Sheng Thao has consistently demonstrated her commitment to Oakland’s values, including economic justice, housing affordability, and public safety."
Alameda County1 month ago

Alameda County Democratic Party Opposes the Recall of Mayor Sheng Thao

iStock.
Alameda County2 weeks ago

Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price Announces $7.5 Million Settlement Agreement with Walmart

At the State of Black California event in Sacramento on Sept. 14. From left to right: Asm. Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley), Asm. Chris Holden (D-Sacramento) and Asm. Mia Bonta (Oakland).
Bay Area1 month ago

State of Black California: Oakland Tour Stop Rescheduled

Right to left: Kimberly Mayfield; Carrie J. Clark; Carol R. Dixon; Nichole Starr Jordan, Shawn E. Simmons, Lauren N. Peebles. Courtesy photo
Bay Area1 month ago

Oakland Xi Gamma Omega Honors the Chapter’s First Regional Director

Wikimedia image.
Bay Area1 month ago

A’s Last Game in Oakland Ends Baseball Team’s 57-Year Tenure Congresswoman Barbara Lee’s Efforts to Save Team Blocked by GOP-Controlled House

Screenshot from Presidential Debate.
Commentary1 month ago

Opinion: In First Presidential Debate, Harris Exposes Trump’s Inadequacies

Attending the unveiling of the monument to the late Dr. Maya Angelou were, from left, Dr. Gina M. Fromer, CEO Glide Foundation; San Francisco Mayor London Breed, Rosa Johnson, (Angelou’s niece); Ralph Remington, San Francisco director of Cultural Affairs; Lava Thomas, artist and creator; Denise Bradley-Tydus, former interim director of Cultural Affairs; San Francisco Poet Laureate Genny Lim, and San Francisco City Librarian Michael Lambert. Photo by Linda Parker Pennington.
Art1 month ago

Phenomenal Woman’ Maya Angelou Monument Unveiled at San Francisco Main Library

LeRonne Armstrong and Richard Johnson. Photo Credit: Jonathanfitnessjones
Bay Area1 month ago

Oakland at Its Best… A Glimpse: Uniting the Community and Supporting Future Generations

iStock
Community1 month ago

California’s Aging Services Offer Valuable Resources for Older Adults

Trending

Copyright ©2021 Post News Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.