Nate Bae Kupel for Malden - Ward 8

Dear friends and neighbors:

As many of you know, this past year my wife and I added a beautiful little one to our family.

For those of you with little ones, it likely goes without saying how much joy and happiness they bring. As first time parents, we are doing everything we can to create a loving environment for him while also searching for balance as two full time working parents.

It was a privilege to run for Ward 8 City Council two years ago, but sadly, I won’t be running this year so that can spend as much time with my family as I can in his first year of life.

I still care deeply for our city and Ward neighbors and friends, and while I won’t be running this year, my commitment to this city and Ward 8 is anything but over.

Warm wishes from our household to yours! Thank you for your support.

Nate, QJ and Che

Fantastic AAPI Arts & Culture grant opportunity! Don’t miss out on the deadline this month.

Arts & Cultural Organizations: Apply by March 23 for COVID-19 recovery grants. Office hours: March 10. https://massculturalcouncil.org/blog/aapi-arts-culture-covid-19-recovery-grants-available/

Join the Healthy Youth Coalition on February 14 (Valentine's Day!) to spread the love for comprehensive and inclusive s*x ed. This Lobby Day in support of the Healthy Youth Act, an NASW-MA priority bill, will focus on urging the House to bring this critical bill to the Floor.

Register to join us on February 14 for the Healthy Youth Act Lobby Day: bit.ly/HYALobby

A Statewide Youth-Led Conversation about Ethnic Studies, Culturally Responsive, and Inclusive K-12 Curriculum to Give Students "Windows and Mirrors" and to Increase Teacher Diversity

Thursday, Feb. 10, 2022, 6:00 PM

Please register https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QJXT4IbITp2J5olktNdolQ

For more information about the legislation and the CARE Coalition, please visit https://www.care4eduequity.org/

(Courtesy of the CARE Coalition)

Ward 8 Neighbors! If you or a neighbor needs help shoveling today please comment below. Malden Neighbors Helping Neighbors (MA) also has a thread for snow shoveling support but since it will be hard to park anywhere, local shoveling is probably the easiest.

If you’re a young person looking for a paid gig too there might be some who can pay.

I’m happy to help someone later as well! Please stay safe and if you help or assistance please let us know.

The City of Malden is looking for members to join the new Racial Equity Commission. You can learn more about how to apply at the link below.

Malden, MA Mayor Christenson Seeks Member to Racial Equity Commission

If you’re looking for more information about becoming vaccinated, there are options. 👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽

Several weeks ago I helped draft language for a resolve to establish a Racial Equity Commission here in Malden which has now been sponsored by nine City Councillors (Sica, Winslow, Spadafora, Linehan, Crowe, DeMaria, Anderson, Condon, and Murphy) and will be voted on at this Tuesday evening's City Council meeting at 7pm.

The resolve calls for the creation of a Commission made up of appointed commissioners who will support efforts to examine the impact of racism and discrimination across our city. And while I am heartened to see this first important step being taken I also believe and will recommend that some key provisions which were originally drafted, be added back to ensure that this work is appropriately resourced and equitably implemented.

1. Hire - a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant/firm to provide the needed expertise and impartiality to develop and implement surveys, focus groups, and evaluate and analyze qualitative and quantitate data collected. Resident commissioners play an important advisory and community leadership role but may not have the time and evaluation skills needed to carry out the volume of work AND should not have to bear the brunt of what will ultimately be difficult and emotionally fraught labor alone.

2. Empower - appointed commissioners to vote for their own chair. While our city's DEI officer should absolutely be part of this commission, I believe that it is important to empower commissioners to have a say in deciding on a chair to lead the process (which very well could be our DEI officer if votes prevail).

If you support this Commission, please join me at this Tuesday's City Council meeting at 7pm to speak in support of Resolve 556-21 with the addition of these crucial provisions above.

https://cityofmalden.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=5346499&GUID=333D08BE-714A-48E9-B538-0C0D0D3F9977&FullText=1

This past week, Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders in Malden and across the state released statements relaying pain and anger over the resurfacing of a 2019 Halloween costume of Councillor Sica dressed as an Asian s*x worker. I too am disappointed and hurt by the portrayal that indeed perpetuates racist stereotypes. However, this is not a post about taking Councillor Sica down. This post is a call to our community leaders and elected officials to take action--together--to commit to addressing the ways racism negatively impacts us all. In a city where over a quarter of all residents identify as Asian American and over half of residents are people of color, we can and must do better.

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In 2019, the owner of the New England Patriots was caught paying for s*x acts at the Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Florida. A Spa in which all employees were Asian women. The Halloween costume worn by Councillor Sica depicts her as a s*x worker holding a bottle of lotion, wearing an Orchids of Asia Day Spa shirt and rice paddy hat (to imply that she is Asian) with a post caption that reads “Happy Halloween with a Happy Ending.”

Asian women have long dealt with destructive racial stereotypes of being submissive and hyper-s*xualized. The existence of day spas featuring exclusively Asian women is proof how deeply entrenched these destructive images have become in our society and how continuing them can lead toward exploitation and s*xual violence. Earlier this year in Atlanta, six Asian women were murdered at an Atlanta-based spa as part of a man’s desire to rid himself of “s*xual temptation.” And while these are more recent examples there are unfortunately many others.

Not long ago, our Mayor, Gary Christenson declared that racism is a public health crisis (https://www.cityofmalden.org/DocumentCenter/View/4067/Local-Executive-Order-Declaring-Racism-a-Public-Health-Crisis---June-2020PDF). And while I can only speak for myself, I don’t think we’ve truly made good on our efforts to investigate, understand and address all the ways in which racism is indeed a public health crisis. A few weeks ago, several young people called for a renewed focus on the impact of racism in our schools and its impact on mental health and psychological safety in our communities. (https://neighborhoodview.org/2021/10/22/bipoc-alumni-detail-difficult-racial-experiences-in-malden-public-schools/). Last week, I myself was referred to as “Sushi” by an employee at a Malden-based business because of the way I look. These sorts of incidents go unnoticed every day but the cumulative impact for people of color have long-term negative effects on our physical and mental health.

The pain of racism is very real. And in the heightened state that we are in, in the midst of anti-Asian racism and hate crimes, many of us are not just hurt, we are angry, and rightfully so. The lasting impact and legacy of racism in the United States and abroad have endured for a very very long time.

Calling people out online as takedowns have become more common these days. And while they can be watershed moments for positive change, they too can be problematic. Taking down an individual rarely yields the outcome that we want. It does not get rid of the problematic beliefs and attitudes that have been learned, nor does it address the systems that have helped perpetuate them.

While I am upset by my Councillor’s past actions, I believe that if we want to learn, grow and take action as a community, it must start with accountability, dialogue and education. Last Sunday, I met with Councillor Sica to discuss how and why the costume was upsetting, perpetuating negative racial stereotypes, racist, and harmful to our communities. We ended our conversation with a commitment from her to issue an apology and a willingness to support the establishment of a racial equity commission to investigate the impact of racism on our city. Today, I wish to renew this proposal to our community leaders, councillors and councillor-elect members to formally support the development of such a public body.

If we really want to change hearts and minds, let us move toward education, dialogue, healing, and action. If you support the establishment of such a commission, please ask your elected officials if they too will make a pledge to vote favorably when this matter is brought to the Council floor.

Sincerely,
Nate Bae Kupel
Former Ward 8 City Council Candidate

If you’re interested in community journalism, don’t miss Urban Media Arts- formerly Malden Access TV’s upcoming workshops Nov. 16-30th and Dec. 14th over zoom from 7-8:30pm.

UMA is hosting a four-part Intro to Citizen Journalism workshop pertaining to the complex nature of Malden's growth. The workshop, will happen Tuesdays, November 16th-30th and December 14th over Zoom from 7:00-8:30PM.

This is a perfect opportunity for someone looking to gain or hone their skills in journalism!

Visit https://urbanmediaarts.org/event/weekly-neighborhood-view-editorial-meeting for more details!

Dear friends, please consider supporting this important Amendment that would allocate crucial ARPA funding to support Haitian families who have just arrived in Massachusetts. We have the third largest Haitian community in the nation and a real opportunity to help over 1,500 families in need across the state. It takes two seconds to send an email using the link below. Let’s show Malden’s support of our growing Haitian community. Comment “done” when you’ve had a chance to sign off!

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Haitian frontline organizations urgently seek American Rescue Plan funding to provide for hundreds of Haitian families that have arrived in Massachusetts in recent weeks. With the third largest Haitian community in the nation, Massachusetts is the top destination for Haitian families fleeing political instability, violence, and food shortages following this summer’s devastating earthquake and the assassination of the Haitian president. Hundreds of families have arrived with nothing more than the clothes on their backs, and over a thousand more families are expected in the coming weeks.

Given the federal government’s disparate treatment of Haitian migrants and the virtual invisibility of the Haitian crisis in the press, Haitian families are relying on frontline organizations to address basic needs like food, shelter, and winter clothing.

The Massachusetts Senate is voting THIS WEEK on a proposed spending bill for American Rescue Plan funds. Please urge your State Senator to support Amendment #18 to the Senate’s proposal. The Haitian Resettlement Equity Amendment would grant $5.5 million to Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI) to provide desperately needed services to at least 1,500 lawfully-present Haitian families in Massachusetts.

Please email your State Senator today and urge them to support this crucial amendment!

Take Action: Support Resettlement Equity for Haitian Refugees Haitian frontline organizations urgently seek American Rescue Plan funding to provide for hundreds of Haitian families that have arrived in Massachusetts in recent weeks. With the third largest Haitian community in the nation, Massachusetts is the top destination for Haitian families fleeing politic...

Hello friends. With the election over we need to take lawn signs down. You are more than welcome to keep them. Please take them down otherwise we will have someone from the team come by to collect them for you. Thank you so very much for your support!

Following updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Children ages 5 to 11 will be able to receive the Pfizer Pediatric COVID-19 vaccine from more than 500 locations, ranging from retail pharmacies, primary care practices, regional collaboratives, local boards of health, community health centers, hospital systems, state-supported vaccination sites and mobile clinics. Some appointments are available now for booking, with additional locations and appointments expected to come online in the coming days.

Visit www.mass.gov/covidvaccinekids for more information. To view more information from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/planning/children.html

Vaccines are widely available across the Commonwealth. Getting vaccinated remains the most important thing individuals can do to protect themselves, their families, and their community. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, and free. Individuals do not need an ID or health insurance to access a vaccine and do not need to show a vaccine card when getting a vaccine.

Massachusetts leads the nation in vaccine administration, including adolescent vaccination, with over 80% of youth ages 12-17 having received at least one dose. Over 4.7 million individuals are fully vaccinated, with more than 92% of all adults having at least one dose.

Dear Friends,

I’m afraid I have some difficult news to share. While we doubled our votes from the prelim, it was unfortunately not enough.

While I still have a lot to process, I couldn’t be more grateful and proud of what we’ve done over the past six months.

I will absolutely share more highlights and all the incredible milestones that I’m so proud of, but for now, THANK YOU! While this phase is coming to an end, it’s far from an ending. And that is because of all of you. 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

In the words of Maya Angelou, “The horizon leans forward offering you space to place new steps for change.” Here’s to the first of many more positive steps forward as a community.

So far, we’ve had a great day at the polls! We’ve seen lots of friendly faces come out to support Nate! We’re looking forward to seeing the evening voter turnout!

Tomorrow is the Day! Election Day is finally here tomorrow (11/2). Remember Ward 8 residents vote at Linden STEAM Academy - 29 Westcott Street. Polls will be open from 7 AM to 8 PM.

Remember you get THREE votes for At-Large City Councillors, ONE vote for Ward 8 Councillor, and ONE vote for Ward 8 School Committee Member.

Please make sure to vote tomorrow!

As your City Councilor, Nate will support education and opportunity for the youths of Malden and will build our community of Malden to be more accessible and resourceful than ever! Make sure to come out and vote for Nate this Tuesday, November 2nd!

Not even rain can stop the Team Nate for Ward 8 train! Thank you to our fearless volunteers for weathering the storm and knocking doors to remind folks about Election Day next week. Are you ready??? Let’s go!

Check out what Nate will bring to the table in City Hall! Two of Nate’s top priorities include keeping Malden clean and green & being an advocate at city hall. Make sure to create a plan to vote for the election on Tuesday, November 2nd!

Thank you NASW-MA PACE! And best of luck to my other fellow Social Work candidates in your races next week.

Early voting ends TODAY in many Massachusetts communities. You can find early voting locations on your municipality's website.

If you live in Boston, Cambridge, Malden, Newton, Quincy, or Somerville, a social worker (or two!) may be on your ballot. Consider voting for:

✅ Carla B. Monteiro, Boston City Council At-large
✅ Marc McGovern, Cambridge City Council
✅ Cambridge School Committee Member Ayesha Wilson
✅ Nate Bae Kupel for Malden - Ward 8
✅ Brenda Noel, Ward 6 City Councilor
✅ Cmte to Elect Liz Speakman, Quincy School Committee
✅ Sarah for School Committee, Somerville Ward 3

Can't make it to the polls today or over the weekend? Be sure to vote on Election Day this Tuesday, November 2!

Ward 8 is excited to vote for Nate! Check out why some of our fabulous supporters plan to vote for Nate on Tuesday, November 2nd.

*TOMORROW* UMA At-Large Councillor Forum!

Urban Media Arts- formerly Malden Access TV will be hosting an At-Large Councillor Forum TOMORROW (10/28) at 6:30 PM. Make sure to tune in!

Here is the link to find the Zoom link. You can also tune in on Youtube Live:

City Councillor At Large Forum - Urban Media Arts City Councillor At Large Tune in by Zoom, or Youtube Live Councillors Participating Karen Colon Hayes Brian J. DeLacey Roberto L. DiMarco John P. Matheson…

Grateful to announce that I have received Councillor-At-Large Debbie DeMaria's endorsement today! I am very grateful to have the support of a wonderful leader in Malden. Thank you Councillor DeMaria!

“Malden is a warm and welcoming community rich with diversity. Over the years we’ve become more and more accepting of our differences and actually we have become all the wiser for it.

After loving and living in Malden for 5 years, Nate James Bae Kupel believes his leadership skills, education and experience will make a difference in Malden. So, he put has name in to run for Ward 8 City Council; and, hit the ground running!

He was born in South Korea, was adopted and grew up in Scarborough, Maine. He graduated from UMASS Amherst, and received his Masters Degree in social work at Simmons College. Nate has served as President for GMAACC, (Greater Malden Asian American Community Coalition) and most recently he has been appointed as Commissioner with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Asian American Commission!

What stands out to me the most is Nate’s respectful demeanor.

Many months ago he phoned me and asked many questions about my role as city councillor, the Malden community and my overall thoughts. You just can tell the difference when someone is asking questions to ask; or to learn. He was clearly listening to learn! And that is the most important role as a city councillor, to listen!

And it’s worth repeating, Malden is a warm and welcoming community rich with diversity. Imagine if it was reflected in our government? I believe we’d be all the wiser.”

It’s truly an honor to have the support of my friend Rachael Running! It’s sometimes difficult to put into words how special people come into our lives and impact us in the ways that they do. Your friendship, lovely family, advice, listening ears, and cat video recommendations have been an ongoing source of levity and inspiration to me.

Thank you so much for all the good work YOU do for our city on the CPC, Linden School Site Council and our working families out there!

🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

Dear friends, with just a week left to go before election day, I know that everyone is hearing a lot of political messages. I wanted to take a minute to let you know about the campaign I have been working my hardest on - Nate Bae Kupel for Ward 8 City Council.

If you've met Nate you know that he is passionate about his community, kind, and full of energy for the hard work of local government. Nate is someone who cares deeply about accessibility and inclusion and is willing to build toward change in big and small ways. Nate has great ideas for bridging the gaps in Malden but he is also someone who will approach the position collaboratively and constructively.

I first met Nate when I was door knocking 2 years ago and the better I've gotten to know him, the more I'm convinced that his leadership is needed in Malden. I hope you will join me and vote for Nate this November 2nd.

I had a fantastic time meeting with neighbors and residents on Loomis street today! From the condition of roads and sidewalks to addressing climate change, language access, to increasing communication between the city and residents, it’s clear from our conversation, we’ve got important work to do. Thank you to Karen Wheelock for organizing and to Carey McDonald for Malden City Council for stopping by to say hello!

Fun times at today’s Fall Fest Howl-oween! Thanks to Ward 3 Councillor Amanda Linehan.

Karen Colón Hayes

Thank you to the Chinese Culture Connection, Urban Media Arts, and Malden Youth Organizers for hosting three fabulous forums that informed Malden voters about each of the candidates running this cycle. I was so glad to have participated and had the opportunity to share my vision for Malden. If you missed the forums and would like to watch them, all three have been recorded and posted online to watch. The links to all three are below. If you are interested in getting involved in the campaign as we face the final campaign season stretch and feel empowered by Nate’s visions and ideas, please join us in one of our standouts on Election Day. RSVP here: https://bit.ly/3ptzv9r

UMA Forum: https://bit.ly/3py3Cg3
CCC Forum: https://bit.ly/3b4T67M
Youth Forum: https://bit.ly/3E2bbzA

Friendly reminder that this event is TODAY at 12 PM! We hope to see you there!

Register through this link: https://bit.ly/3limEo6

Hello everyone! You’re all invited to join us for a Mindful Minutes Workshop on October 22 at 12:00 pm! The workshop will occur during lunchtime and will teach different stress reduction methods to improve your day. Register through this link: https://bit.ly/3limEo6