Case Analysis: Discrimination and Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

 Introduction

Discrimination refers to treating or intending to treat an individual with hostility as a result of their personal distinctiveness. Discrimination and harassment can take a number of diverse forms and there are extensive sweeping federal laws that rule out discrimination and harassment against individuals on the base of race, color, state origin, sexual category, religious conviction, disability, pregnancy and maturity among others. Basing the framework on the case study of Big E Music Company, I will analyze issues of discrimination and sexual harassment from different perspectives so that I can give an opinion to the company on the most excellent strategies for handling these issues before they even arise.

The Employee Perspective

It is essential for the employee to understand the need to alert the manager in case of any discrimination or harassment issues.  The manager should be held responsible for abiding by the law, but the worker alone is accountable for ensuring that their privileges are defended. Letting the employer know that the victim is taking the issue critically is also essential. It is critical for the employee to solicit that a printed report be made every time they give details on an incident of discrimination or harassment. Managers are required by the law to provide punctual consideration to all news of inequity and harassment.  In case there is no reaction from the manager, the worker should think about getting in touch with the Federal Equity Employment Opportunity Commission which has the accountability for control of conformity for many national anti-discrimination as well as anti-harassment rules. It is also advisable for a worker to keep a record of any occurrences of discrimination or harassment. It is important to note the date, reasonably accurate time, scene, parties concerned, observers and details of the indecent manner of speech (Jackall, 2010). 

The Company Perspective

Companies and managers use a submissive strategy to achieve education within the company. Lots of businesses have fixed procedures given to new workers in a direction which is advisable. Failure to entail in explanation the policy as well as ways in which complaints can be raised is a huge mistake that a company can do. Consequently, administrators should wholly understand their specific responsibilities as well as the manner in which they should act in response to the complaints (Conte, 2010).  Given this, writing of guiding principle is not enough. Managers should be candidly concerned with the education of all workers about aggravation and why it should be prohibited. In the case of significant E music company, it is essential for the company to recognize that it is of an essence to employ a very sexy young woman to work as the receptionist for the company to act as the face of the company but there are ethical considerations to reflect on when selecting one.

The Legal Perspective

Amid the issues on which the administration is exposed is the failure to take protests critically and quickly act in response promptly. It is necessary for the management to perform in response without delay to intolerable actions with the work environment.  The prompt and careful investigation has to be done in the case of a complaint to find out an appropriate response as an elucidation to the claim. It is essential for the company to understand that the management might be unsuccessful in accountability for disciplinary damages when they make an attempt in good faith and conforming to the decrees that are anti-discriminative (Mia, (2018).  The general efforts of the company should be concerning the formulation of guiding principles, training workers and acting in response to complaints without delay.  It is as well essential to understand that such proceedings and training conferences can lend a hand in protecting an employer’s claim similar to the case of the CEO of Big E Music company. The employer should as well understand that he has a responsibility to establish the above steps to reduce the likelihood of proceedings and enhancing development within the company.

The Legal Perspective

Responsibility and Reporting

The manager of the company must understand that he has the burden of putting off workplace inequity and sexual harassment and taking action ahead of its occurrence. The employer in the company should accomplish this by setting up discrimination as well as sexual harassment and exposure strategies. If the employer achieves this obligation, he might not be accountable in case aggravation and inequity happens.  Similarly, the acts of the person responsible for sexual harassment can generate a sexually aggressive environment. Consequently, female, as well as male employees will be nervous about losing their jobs if they surrender to sexual approaches by bosses or managers. The manager should understand that undesirable sexual harassment like bias and sexual partiality can demoralize otherwise diligent workers (Jackall, 2010). 

The Business Perspective

The outcomes of inequity and sexual harassment from the company are apparent in the way it is viewed by the public. Aggressive and offensive customers are likely to have pessimistic effects on workers generating annoyance and despair. These issues often make the employees feel humiliated, dishonored and useless which may lead to more harsh problems like nervousness and emotional fatigue. The outcome of these feelings might be eventually quitting work from the company which in turn has adverse effects on the production of the company. Customers might s well resist products and services from the company as a result of its unethical behavior thus contribute to its reduced creation in business.

Conclusion

Drawing from the case of Big E Music Company, it is clear that there are some best policies for dealing with issues of discrimination along with sexual harassment in places of work. Every part of a company has the accountability to be responsible for actions of discrimination and harassment. It is thus crucial for the employers and employees to cooperate and receive training on the critical responsibilities they should take in case of occurrence of discrimination and harassment and how to stop it from happening.

References

Conte, A. (2010). Sexual harassment in the workplace: Law and practice. New York: Aspen

 Publishers.

Jackall, R. (2010). Moral mazes: The world of corporate managers. Oxford: Oxford University

            Press.

Mia, L. C. A. H. I. L. L. (2018.). Social Construction Of Sexual Harassment Law;The Role Of

            The National, Organizational And Individual Context. London: Routledge.

Completing the RD1PA: Aspects to consider

1. Title of the proposed investigation – will appear on the front of the thesis. But, it can be amended slightly before final submission of the thesis itself.

I settled on the topic ‘’The Effect of Palermo Convention to Combat the Crime of Human Trafficking in United Kingdom & Kingdom of Jordan’’ as it clearly illustrates the importance of the trafficking issue.

2. Theoretical perspective – a brief and clear indication of the theoretical underpinnings of the project.

            Human trafficking is currently the main focus of heated international debates especially in the context of terrorism, and money laundering. It can be voluntary or forceful. The main difference is the voluntary aspect: human smuggling is when a person wants to come into a country illegally and pays human smugglers to facilitate that. In immigration crime in which the individual, who is crossing the border, is the criminal. It can be difficult to distinguish between smuggling and human trafficking, because sometimes a person may volunteer to be smuggled but is exploited by people when they are brought across a border as they are no longer volunteering for what happens next, they are turned into a human trafficking victim. The EU laws classifies such laws as a crime.

3. Rationale for the study – why is the study important, and what issues is it likely to address?

The intention of the project is to create awareness about the issue of human trafficking particularly to the government and policy developers. The Jordanian law appears to be flawed since the issue has been prevailing for the longest time. The study will make recommendations to deal with the issue in the future.

4. Aims of the investigation – these should be few in number, and as clear and concise as possible. Each aim can be stated in a single sentence – but do not include too many.

1. To investigate the effects of the Palermo convention in combating human trafficking crime in UK and Jordan.
2. To compare the human trafficking case in different countries and its progress.
3. To on the trafficking crime from an international dimension in studying the effects of the Palermo convention in combating the crime.

5. Description of methods – what methods are being used, and why they are appropriate? What are the limitations of these methods for the chosen area? Aim to be as precise as possible, and think how the research questions relate to the stated aims.

            The research utilises a mixed methodology that incorporates both qualitative and quantitative methods. Through a descriptive design method the approach will provide adequate information that is needed for the investigation. The methods are mainly appropriate because they are not only convenient, but cost effective, easy to use and have the highest potential of generating maximum data within the shortest period. Questionnaires will be used in gathering quantitative data in general. However, this method have limitations because the acquired data cannot be quantified or compared. In that since the research involves acquiring information from Jordan and UK it is not easy to fully compare the details. Also verification is an issue since most of the existing literature is outdated and its relevance is uncertain. However, the methods will be useful in answering the research questions fully thus meeting the objectives of the study.

6. Statement of sources – aside from established text materials, where will you get information from?

External agencies will be used to access information as well such as government and police agencies both from Jordan and UK. The sources are essential in supporting the objectives of the study since they not only contain relevant but also reliable information. In that the information is usually accredited from conducted research and statistics rather than opinions and assumptions. The agencies sources will be accessed from the online platform. Most of the sites can be accessed freely by any member of the public which makes them easy to use. The sources are important since adequate information is needed to support the arguments of the research.

7. Ethical considerations – any issues that are raised within the research methods section need to be identified and addressed.

Since the study will mainly rely on secondary sources to review the existing literature and empirical data one of the ethical consideration will be plagiarism. Borrowed ideas will be cited appropriately to acknowledge the authors. In addition, permission to access agency data will be acquired from the respective authorities. In addition since the research touches a sensitive issue no form of bias will be incorporated as it might hurt individual’s feelings.

8. Timetable for the project – this should show how and when the differing aspects of the project will be completed. A Gantt chart can be useful here.

OPTIMISM IN CANDIDE

               Candide is a protagonist in Voltaire’s work Candide. He is an illegitimate son of Baron’s sister who lives a luxurious life with his Uncle Baron in the Thunder-Ten-Trunckh castle. Pangloss, the castle’s philosopher, teaches Candide about optimism and that “we live in the best of all possible worlds”. Cunagonde, the Baron’s daughter, sees Pangloss having sex with Paquette, the castle maid, in the bush and gets interested in Candide. She dropped her handkerchief near Candide and they end up kissing. This led to Candide being excommunicated from the castle and it marked the beginning of his suffering. This paper discusses how Candide’s philosophical views are tested, the evil he encountered, the imperfections in the philosophy of optimism and Candide’s perspective towards optimism.

             Candide faced many trials and challenges that might have changed his philosophical view of optimism. First, after he was evicted from the castle, Candide got forcefully recruited into the Prussian army where he was tortured and almost got killed. He was then made to fight in the war between Prussia and French (Wood, M 2005, p. 24). Secondly, the eviction from the castle made him to separate with his lover Cunegonde which was a bad thing to him as he saw a future with her as his wife. Thirdly, Candide suffers the loss of a friend, Jacques, who had restored optimism in him after he suffered in the hands of the Prussian army. Jacques meant a lot to Candide as he also healed his tutor, Pangloss, from syphilis. He died in the Lisbon’s harbor as they were migrating to Paraguay. Pangloss and Candide are accused of blasphemy after Pangloss expressed his views on optimism to the Candide. The inquisitor arrests them, they get whipped and almost get killed but later, Candide managed to escape.

           Evil is one aspect that is brought out in the book Candide. Earthquake is one of the natural evils. The tragic Tsunami happened in Lisbon which lead to thousands of people losing their lives, many people injured, and massive destruction of properties. According to Radner, J.B. & Braun, T.E.D. (2005, p. 8) the message that God helped in the construction of history is well received.  Prostitution is another evil in Candide. After losing her job at the castle, Paquette moved to Venice where she became a prostitute despite the fact that she had syphilis and she knew she would transmit the disease to others, just like she infected Pangloss. Warfare and assassination is evident in the book as the Bulgar of Prussia assassinates the Baron’s family in order to invade the territory. This invasion leads to the death and separation of Baron’s family members.  Religion prosecution is seen when Candide and Pangless are captured by the Grand Inquisitor. They were to be burnt alive as an act of faith to appease God and prevent more disasters in the society. This is a norm to them called ‘auto-da-fe’. Religion in the society is full of corruption and hypocrisy. Church leaders are cruel and they punish those who disagree with their theological teachings. According to Lewis, C.S. (2001, 16), the possibility of pain is inherent and when people become wicked, they use this possibility to hurt one another. Another evil is sexual exploitation of women. Cunegonde is raped by Prussian Bulgar when they were taking over her father’s territory, she later got forced into sexual slavery. The old woman also narrates her misfortunes one of them being rape.

             In his sojourn, Candide encounters many incidents and characters that shake his optimism. When Candide acquires wealth in Eldorado, he becomes corrupt as he can buy his way through anything. Corruption makes him an unhappy wealthy man because his money is consumed by dishonest merchants. This lowers his optimism belief level to a point where no amount of flogging could do.  Martin, his friend, happens to be a pessimist who doesn’t believe that anything good can come out of human being. They both argue because Candide trusts people easily while Martin does not. An example is when Candide sent Colombo to go and pick Cunegonde and the old woman. Martin became so furious and negative on the matter and all he could do was blame Candide instead of encouraging him. The old woman is a pessimist who gives her life story and the misfortunes she has encountered. Her experience shakes Candide’s optimism as after all the suffering, no justice was done for the old woman and she ended up as a maid (Wood, M 2005, p. 45).

              Candide realizes that in as much as the philosophy of optimism has its advantages, it also has its flaws. The hope for a better future might be good for human beings, but it is important to work towards what we can change and not to assume that everything happens for a reason. First, Jacque’s death could be averted if they had tried to save him. Instead, Pangloss’ optimistic believe that the harbor was built in order to kill him made Jacques to drown to death. Secondly, the philosophy of optimism is used to justify evil in the society. When Pangloss is infected with Syphilis by Paquette, he says that syphilis is a disease from America and it had to be transmitted to Europe so that Europeans can also enjoy the new things that come with civilization like chocolate, despite the disease costing him an ear and one eye. Pangloss also says that noses were made to support spectacles and that’s why people have spectacles (Wood, M.

2005, p. 30). Thirdly, optimism almost led to Candide’s death. Candide was among the victims of the Tsunami and he almost died. At that time, he asked Pangloss for oil and wine but all he could do was try to prove to him about the causes of earthquakes.

             At some point in his sojourn, Candice opposes Pangloss’ views. After Pangloss was hanged by the auto-de-fate, Candide is broken and opposes Pangloss’ view when he says to himself, “If this is the best possible of all worlds, what are the others like? I wouldn’t complain if it were just that I’d been flogged: the Bulgars flogged me too. But my dear Pangloss, the greatest of philosophers - did I have to see you hanged, without knowing why? And my dear Anabaptist, the kindest of men - did you have to be drowned in the harbor? And Lady Cunegonde, the pearl of young ladies - did your belly have to be split open?” (Bair, L 2003, p. 26). Secondly, when Candide learns about the inhumane treatment that slaves were subjected to, he say, “Oh Pangloss! It’s too much: I’ll have to give up on your optimism at last.” (Bair, L 2003, p.63). This is evident that Candide doubted the philosophy of optimism and believed that changing evil was a free will for human beings.

             Candide’s perspective of optimism changed for the better. It changed from “we live in the best of all possible worlds” to “we must cultivate our garden”. After all the suffering that Candide goes through in his sojourn, he meets a man with his small family who work hard in their land for survival without depending on others. Candide decides that he wants to live like this man in order to escape the wicked world’s punishment of vice, boredom and poverty. He settles down with his wife Cunegonde, Pangloss, Martin, old woman and the Baron. Though he doesn’t have much, he finally finds happiness. According to Besterman, T. (1972, p. 27), all men would be equal if wants never existed. Inequality is as a result of need for survival and dependency on others which makes one man to be subjective to another man.

            Optimism plays an important role in the lives of human beings as it encourages people to push on and never give up. However, if misinterpreted, it can bring a lot of damage to the society as the offenders go unpunished due to the belief that everything happen in accordance to God’s plans. People should work for survival and a good life instead of waiting for fate to take its course.

References

Bair, L., 2003. CANDIDE. New York: A Bantam Book.

Bottiglia, W., 1968. CANDIDE'S GARDEN. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc. 

Braun, T.E. and Radner, J.B., 2005. THE LISBON EARTHQUAKE OF 1755. Representations

          and Reactons, Oxford: Voltaire Foundation.

Lewis, C.S., 2001. THE PROBLEM OF PAIN. London, Harper Collins.

Voltaire, F., 2005. CANDIDE OR OPTIMISM. (trans. and ed. T. Cuffe, with an introduction by

1. Wood). Harmondsworth: Penguin.

Voltaire, F., 1972. PHILOSOPHICAL DICTIONARY. (Vol. 3). (Trans and ed. Theodore

           Besterman) London and New York: Penguin.

Group behaviors, influence or empathy

Group Behaviors

Research question

Why does the group behavior of close friends impact the overall functioning of a child? The objective of this research question is to show the correlation between a child's actions with that of his friends within a group. It seeks reasons behind how and why the group behavior has such a powerful impact on a child who is in his developing stages (Sociology Live, 2015).

The research question seeks to find out the bond children share when they are in the group. The underlying reason for the study will be the personal image group curves or influences for a child (Sociology Live, 2015).

The research question bases its focus on peer groups and the reason they might have a stronger influence than any other close individual such as family. For the problem adequately answered, ideas that make group behaviors more outstanding and influential should undoubtedly be seen and come out apparently (Sociology Live, 2015).

I have an interest in group behavior due to the human nature of humans .humans are very social beings. Some of our practice is not sincerely acquired but are borrowed both consciously and unconsciously through our interactions with friends. This makes group behavior to be of much interest to me (Sociology Live, 2015).

Influence

Does influence vary with social class and race? This research question tend to focus on the bias that exists in today's society regarding race and money by bringing in the influence through the race (Sociology Live, 2015).

The higher one is on the social scale, the more influence they have, and the more people listen to them. A more senior social class comes with money, influence, and fame. In any given society, people admire an individual with cash more significant social status (Bryman, 2016).

The objective of the research will be centered on whether race can push for influence in the society. A race can create authority based on how people perceive it to be (Bryman, 2016).

Any leader on or individual in this world can only chive success through applying the power of influence. Influencing people around you gives you an upper hand on matters hence establishing a link between one and more resources (Sociology Live, 2015).

 Behavior

What is the extent of nature of productive pupils' response both at home and in the confines of the classroom?

            This research question tries to exhibit concern on what might be ailing the society especially young school going children who most of their times spend time in school and at home. The correlation between this two environments can be the key to researching this topic as it exposes what is unproductive and what is productive to the students at home and at school (Sociology Live, 2015).

My primary interest in behavior is the fundamental ways that can help to bring up more reasonable children in the society. Behavior especially of developing children is becoming a primary concern, especially among parents as one of the leading challenges within the school compounds. In many countries, there has been the trend that is worrying. Some students tend to be more productive at home than in school, and the vice versa is also true. The aim of the research is geared towards find or striking a balance between school and home to optimize the productivity of the child or student in this case. Therefore the question will emphasis more on the extent the has created the problem and seek to give alternatives or solutions to the predicament (Sociology Live, 2015).

References

Sociology Live. (2015).

Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcnpuhrnE28&feature=youtu.be

Bryman, A. (2016). Social research methods. Oxford University Press.

Service Description

The two agencies that provide services to the elderly individuals include the Mountain Empire Older Citizens, Inc and Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens (AASC)

Mountain Empire Older Citizens, Inc

The agency was organized in 1978 and normally provides public transport to the elderly persons.  The agency depends on the contribution from different volunteers regardless of their age.  The agency has a mission of preventing unnecessary and inappropriate institutionalization of older individuals through various ways. These include developing and maintaining of a comprehensive and use friendly care services over the long-term and which are user-friendly.  The user –friendly environment is based on the recognition that most of the care given to the elderly people is done using the support from family care givers (Mountain Empire Older Citizens, n.d). The firm acts as a responsibly and actively represent the issues affecting the older people.  It is therefore, committed to establishing and sustaining a transportation system that is specialized for all ages and targeting all clients and even patients. The program also committed to prevent any form of abuse to old population and even protecting their rights especially those living in harmful circumstances. The services provided by the agency include transportation, specialty care m primary care, Coverage of prescription drugs, Home Care Services, provision of meals and other healthcare services such as Speech Therapy.  The agency collaborates with other partners such as organizations, agencies and the community to accomplish its set out mission (Mountain Empire Older Citizens, n.d).  The contacts for the agency are: 800-252-6362; The Box numbers are: P.O. Box 888. E-mail – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens (AASC)

This is a private and non-profit organization that has been operation since 1975. Its mission has been to improve the elderly people’s life by way of education, charitable and social services and though other appropriate ways. It operations involves a multi-service day-care-center whose purpose is to offer care on daily basis. These services include social and personal support and supervision. Moreover, the agency operates a system for public transit whose funding comes from Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transit. Also, the agency runs ALLCARE for seniors, a PACE program focused on rural areas and offers inclusive care services to the older people (ASSC, n.d). A major value upheld in this organization is the need for promoting programs that that encourage and help the older person to remain within their community and homes the longest time possible. Their dignity is of paramount to the values of the organization. On that note, the programs involve delivery of meals for seniors who are based at home and also to the individuals providing personal care services such as dressing and bathing. The focus for the agency is primarily to provide assurance that such older people are respectfully treated and their dignity upheld. This is done through responding to their needs respectfully (ASSC, n.d).  Education programs are also important services provided.  The contact and address for the agency are:  267-964-4915, BOX 765.

References

ASSC,(n.d). Retrieved from: http://www.aasc.org/about/

Mountain Empire Older Citizens, Inc.,(n.d). Our mission. Retrieved from: http://www.meoc.org/missionmeoc.htm

Homeland security and Racial Profiling

The first response to getting a notification that one of the applicants filed for an EEOC against the fire department is notifying and preserving. I would ensure that relevant and appropriate individuals in the legal fire department are aware of the EEOC charges. The second action is ensuring that all documents such as emails, files and any other relevant document related to the discrimination charge are readily available. I will also notify all the people to be aware of the lawsuit. Instructing all managerial workers not discuss the allegation especially in public (Glover, 2009).

My initial reaction to the EEOC charge against the fire department. I would be astonished and shocked because all the procedures were followed from the beginning to the end of the process. As the captain of the fire department, I tested the applicants without any bias. The Thirty-five applicants were shortlisted for the volunteer force based on merit only. Ten out of the twenty applicants passed the oral interview satisfactorily. All analytic procedures were carried out genuinely and uniformly. Only one applicant had been recently arrested for theft for the last three years (Glover, 2009).

Racial profiling can be defined as a discriminatory practice by law enforcement authorities of isolating and targeting persons for suspicious crimes based on their race, ethnic background, religion or national background. Coming up with a profile. On all types of people who perpetrate specific crimes may lead police officers to generalize and target a particular group of people. Hence, they may conclude an individual based on racial profiling rather than judging a specific behavior for themselves. Some of the actions that the fire department might have taken that could have led to accusations of racial profiling are on a keen background check of the applicants, one of them had been arrested for theft for the past three years. His disposition revealed that a plea to a lesser crime had been entered and the applicant was on a six-month probation. The applicant was denied a chance to be part of the volunteer task force (Glover, 2009).

 The first step that can be taken in investigating the claim is by meeting with the applicant filing the complaint. The meeting will give him the opportunity to discuss situations and circumstances he thinks might have played a part in his discrimination. The information provided by the complainant should remain confidential. I would then assure him of the commitment of the fire department to promote fair procedures and workplace equality. The second step I would take is transcribing the notes from the meeting and compose a well-written statement. Reviewing of the report should be done by the applicant and myself. The third step is to evaluate the applicant's statement and laws that can be applied to prohibit the offense from happening shortly. Another step is researching on previous fire department employee relations files whether there has ever been such and a case in the past (Eeb-Sossa,2013).

All staff members should be interrogated to get a full picture of what transpired during the recruitment process. Employers should need to investigate any complaint of illegal activity or behavior filed against the fire department (Eeb-Sossa, 2013).

Based on what I have learned on the topic of employment and labor relations laws, I believe the case was a discriminatory event. First of all, Labor and employment laws focus on broad and wide areas of laws that administrate and guide the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees. Most of the governing rules are meant to maintain workers' safety and ensure they are handled somewhat, although the laws also safeguard the interests of the employers. Employment laws are composed of federal and state laws, legislations, administrative laws and court opinions. Chosen employment relationships may also be controlled or governed by a contract. Many of the employment disputes can be handled through this laws perfectly well (Eeb-Sossa,2013).

Discrimination in the work environments is another fundamental basis upon which the laws are founded. The employment and labors rules do not allow an individual to be discriminated against or treated differently from any other workers. Any individual who wishes to pursue discrimination claims hire lawyers and follow due procedures which allows them the right- to- sue letter from the equal opportunity commissions. Employers also hire lawyers to defend their organizations against these lawsuits and ensure appropriate laws are followed before termination of the case (Eeb-Sossa, 2013).

I believe that the fire department genuinely discriminated the applicant who pressed the EEOC complaint due to his race, Hispanic and past criminal record. Although it is not very sure that he was discriminated due to his race and criminal record, he has characteristics of a victim of racial profiling. First of all, he was the only applicant who had a criminal and had a Hispanic background. Whether a person has a criminal recorded or not, they must be given a chance to earn an honest living through employment.

References

Eeb-Sossa, N. (2013). Doing good: Racial tensions and workplace inequalities at a community clinic in El Nuevo South.

Glover, K. S. (2009). Racial profiling: Research, racism, and resistance. Lanham, Md: Rowman & Littlefield.

Billie Holiday

Billie Holiday is recognized by most people as the supreme jazz vocalist that has ever lived. She lived a passionate and challenging life and her songs are an expression of the unbelievable complexity of sentiments that narrated of the challenging life, injustices, and success. Despite the fact that her career never lasted long and frequently sensual she left substantial masterpieces as a jazz vocalist. Holiday died in 1959 at the age of 44 due to heroin addiction and alcoholism. Even though she had struggled with substance addition she had battled sexism and racism even in the presence of personal challenges (PBS 1).

Holiday impacted the Jazz industry by utilizing her singing platform to address some of the pressing issues in the society such as racism. She felt that the society was so judgmental that it failed to recognize individual’s worth based on race and sex. She ended up becoming a tragic hero who despite trying to solve issues that were affecting the society was unable to save herself (PBS 1). Holiday was a voice to the vulnerable particularly women and minority groups in America. By the time she was consumed with substance abuse, she had 24 compilation albums which were received positively across the globe (PBS 1). Being an African American Holiday experienced intense discrimination during her singing career which she claimed to have denied her singing platforms in the past. In addition, being a female singer was not easy for her as she had to deal with male abuse as the female gender was considered inferior during the 20th century. Holiday was mainly influenced by the need to be different as she asserted that she only needed to sing as herself and not a copy of someone else. 

Source: USA Today

Work Cited

Monir, Malak and Durando, Jessica. Billie Holiday's life and legacy. USA Today, 2015. Retrieved from: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/04/07/billie-holiday-birth-anniversary-100/25357845/

PBS. Billie Holiday. PBS, 2006. Retrieved from: http://www.pbs.org/wnet/americanmasters/billie-holiday-about-the-singer/68/

Noem Project

Brief

Neom is a transactional city set aside as an economic zone to be located in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia and whose construction will extend to Egypt and Jordan.  The development aims at providing a global hub for everybody in the entire world.  The promise is to provide a lifestyle that is not presently available in Saudi Arabia and thus remake thus, remake this kingdom as resources continue to dwindle (Carey et al. 2017).  The operations of this project city will be independent of the current government framework and investors will be consulted throughout the development process.  The project is an indication of the Kingdom's shift to a "new generation of cities," where clean energy will provide required power and anything tradition will not be allowed (Carey et al. 2017).  The base of the project appears to be the Free Zone idea, where such zones have their laws and regulations and are exempt from standard tariffs. 

The reason for choosing this project city is that many business opportunities will be up for grab since an improved lifestyle would require improved services delivery but with a focus on high quality.  With the construction of the city, the project also targets the provision of clean energy and water by exploiting the available resources including solar and wind power. Another focus is the provision of food in a desert, which requires investment in start-of –art technologies to support solar-powered greenhouses and seawater farming. Provision of quality health will involve biotech research on health knowledge and develop and apply it.  Transportation and advanced manufacturing are other aspects of the project to be included (Neom, n.d). The leisure activities will also provide business opportunities.  These aspects highlight the reasons for choosing this location.

Summary

The business idea to build on the Neom project is Recreational Center that is aimed encouraging physical and outdoor activities targeting people who choose to locate in the city.  Since the aim of the project is to provide a lifestyle not experienced in the world, family entertainment, leisure and recreational activities will form an essential aspect of the desired standard of living.  The Target market includes individuals and families who relocate to this area and focusing on having a center that is family oriented to take advantage of their desire for better recreational and leisure activities.  Entertainment will form a new buzzword for the wealthy individuals who will relocate to the city since they will not just want to buy stuff.  They will be interested in a quality experience, and the recreational center aims to provide fun, authenticity, and participation and hence, a successful experience. These people will have money that they can spend on recreation activities and entertainment, in line with the market trend where more people are paying considerable amount of their money in this area than on clothing and health care.

The provision of quality experience through recreational and entertainment services will involve a strategy focusing on families and individuals.  The establishment and commercialization of the center will focus on what these people need regarding adventure and entertainment in this city market.  The business will target the niche market, where the customer relationships will be tailored to the needs of these customers.  The Objectives of the company will be; to establish a service-based business where customers' expectations are exceeded, acquire a high number of customers each year, to create a family destination that aligns with community needs and create value in line with Neom City.  The Business will provide a range of activities to customers that include both indoor and outdoor services. The activities also comprise of registered programs, rental rooms, weight rooms and sporting programs.  The sporting program will involve activities such as golfing, swimming, tennis as preferred by the customers. The registration programs will keep the population in the city health and hence, improved good lifestyle as envision in the Neom objectives.  Also, a focus on family will call for the inclusion of food outlets in the Center where healthy and fresh food products will be provided. The provision of such food products will encourage the consumption of locally produced foods as highlighted in the blueprint of the city. The recreational center will be a business whose operations will be aligned with the goal of Noem project, which involves a unique quality lifestyle.  The choice for this idea is hinged on the fact that the people who will settle in this new city have a high purchasing power and hence, enough money to spend on recreation and entertainment. These aspects present a unique business idea.

The business plan is built on high-quality services, cost reduction and customer focus for growth. To attract investors, the business plan will display the efficient use of initial investment funds and the prospect for growth.  The creation of a realistic budget based on good traction and customer discovery.  The business plan will spell out the opportunities represented by the establishment of Neom City involving recreational and entertainment customer needs, the expected returns and growth projection.

Conclusion

 The recreational business is based on the premise that Neom City project will offer a quality lifestyle to people from anybody from around the world. The business will focus on the provision of recreational and entertainment services to families and individuals who settle in this area. The business operations or activity of the recreational center involves leisure, sporting and entertainment activities that are in line with the objective of the Neom project. Objectives of the business will be; to establish a service-based business where customers' expectations are exceeded, acquire a high number of customers each year, to create a family destination that aligns with community needs and create value for investors and clients.  The individuals expected to settle in the City are mostly affluent, and the creational center will provide an opportunity for activities that serve their health needs. To attract investors, the plan will highlight the business opportunities availed by the project and expected returns and growth.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

The features that offer give the business an edge over any competitor includes a combination of new sporting facilities and equipment for exercise and unique classes not provided in other areas. A professionally certified workforce, high-quality customer care, and customer participation will provide an advantage for the business. The attraction of dedicated investors, effective management, and marketing program will ensure the achievement set objectives.

Weaknesses

Being a new business, the management and staff may lack experience while operating in a different environment. Lack of initial funding to improve facilities and equipment as problems arise may present a weakness.

Opportunities

The market involves customers who are keen on their health and especially family-oriented facilities. The inclusion of various services in a package will enable attraction of more customers.

Threats

There is a threat of new recreational businesses being opened in the city which will lead to increased competition. Lack of enough funding for expansion and marketing programs also present a substantial threat.

Innovation Strategy

The strategies for this business will be based on the question of how the power to draw customers in the center will be increased. There are many alternatives for recreational and leisure activities from which customers can choose from, and the adopted business strategy will have to make customers choose to engage in this center. The general formula for market economics involves supply increasing to meet the demand, with an assumption that demand will always be there and hence, triggering a response from business (Osterwalder & Pigneur, 2010).  Demand for leisure services may not always be guaranteed. The strategy will involve the creation of market when demand is slow. The approach will involve using advertisement to announce the opportunity through public education of the services and making the offerings to appear attractive.  The strategy will ensure that there is enough revenue generated and hence, cushion the business against any possible failure due to insufficient capitalization. It will ensure that the business being operated attracts and maintains a  viable market that leads to a constant generation of revenue.

 The second issue involves an understanding that the basis of leisure business is leisure activities by people in the Neom City. This will require a focus on the life cycle of the business which is, in this case, "activity lifecycle". Understanding that the introduction of these new recreational services will follow the "introduction, growth and peak, and then stagnating" life cycle will help in recognizing real demand and then igniting demand when it declines (Kelly, 2013).  To sustain the existing customers and attract new ones during the entire business cycle, quality will be everything.  Ensuring high-quality services is a way of avoiding mediocrity, which is quite risky in business. For a start –up that want to have a sustained long-term growth quality is a central thing.  The experience at the Recreational center must be powerful enough to bring customers back, and at the same time, spontaneously induce word-of-mouth and hence, promotion though person to person. 

Besides, the strategy involves how to marketing mix will be done to popularize the services offered and improve customers experience. It involves the using booths and Family Event presence. This involves taking advantage of the other events taking place in the area and informing people of the services offered at the recreational center.  This will involve a presentation of programs offered and offering people a chance to register immediately. The use digital technology to advertise such services will play a huge part in helping individuals know of any facilities and activities that are available and which they can access at and order online. This will involve encouraging people to register early by offering discounts or so that to get the facilities filled in the evening, weekends and holidays. The pricing structure will be such that it will allow for group discounts targeting families, organizations, and institutions. The use of such campaigns will require care so as not to attract more bargain hunters than potential customers. Also, to improve service quality especially on physical exercises, the use of instructional videos will be vital since it will increase the participation of customers. The video should be short and present during the registration process to capture customers' attention. The use of this strategy will ensure the attraction and retention of customers.

Business pattern form

Customer Segments

Family groups segment

Organizational or institutional groups segments

Individual customers

Value propositions

Provide high-quality leisure and entertainment services while exceeding customer needs

Provide a playful and safe environment for parents and kids as major customers

Community education on the need for recreational activities

Channels

Increased communication using online platforms, distribution of fliers and other informative materials on the health effect of recreational activities

Customer relationships

Provide 24 hours customer services to obtain concerns, complaints and providing feedback in time for all segments

Revenue streams

Offering superior customer experience through leisure and entertainment services

Offer indoor and outdoor sporting activities

Key resources

 Fitness facilities

Gymnasiums

Theater

Indoor and outdoor swimming pools

Sporting fields and facilities 

Key activities

Educational play activities with learning

 Special events including weddings and birthdays

Photography for various events and activities

Movie theaters

Corporate sporting activities

Key partnerships

Instructors, consultants and healthcare specialists

The firm will be co-owned by at least two investors who will provide the required capital

Cost structure

Start-up expenses                  $ 55,750

Total assets required          $ 582, 000

References

Neom( n.d).The world's most ambitious project: an entire new land, purpose-built for new way living Retrieved from http://discoverneom.com/

Carey, G., Nereim , V., Cannon , C., (2017).Sun, Sea, and Robots: Saudi Arabia's Sci-Fi City in the Desert.  Retrieved from: https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2017-neom-saudi-mega-city/

Osterwalder, A., & Pigneur, Y. (2010). Business model generation: a handbook for visionaries, game changers, and challengers. John Wiley & Sons.

Kelly, J. R. (2013). Leisure business strategies: what they don't teach in business school. Sagamore Publishing. 21

Formal complaint

Subject: discrimination claim

Dear sir/madam

I am writing this letter to forward my complaint that my landlord is terminating me because of my age. I have a tenancy agreement copy that contains the key things as a tenant I must adhere to. Before I entered this house, I read the tenancy agreement, I accepted the terms and condition, and I signed it. I have noticed  housing discrimination and  in particular age discrimination  since my landlord  is presenting  misleading information  and is using all efforts  to ensure that I have to leave.  She states that apart from being too old, I have undesirable character traits of which there is no evidence. As a tenant,   I know my rights and, I have the right to equal treatment.  I also understand that ‘The Federal Fair Housing Acts’ prohibits tenants’ discrimination because of age. The landlord does not have any age-neutral evidence or rather a legal basis that allows her to terminate. This situation has caused anxiety and stress and, I would like the law to put consideration on this matter. Therefore, I request the ‘Department of Housing and Urban Development’ to   review the Fair Housing Act and take legal measures. I look forward to  be in good terms with my landlord  and I believe that  the  information I have provided will be sufficient  in addressing  the case.

Yours sincerely

Warriors Don't Cry by Melba Pattillo Beals and Civil Rights Movement

The term ‘Civil Rights Movement’ previously described all the efforts directed towards the objective of achieving equality for the African Americans in all aspects of the society. The state has a duty of protecting civil rights form violation by individuals. Civil rights are designed in various ways, but of importance to this discussion is from decisions made by federal courts as evidenced by Melba Pattillo Beals in her work- “Warriors Don’t Cry”. Beals is a reporter, who writes about the cruelty that she was subjected to, as a student during an era where there was a movement for justice in education[1].  This work will discuss challenges, and the advantages are facing the civil rights movement with the view of Beals’s experiences in the story of ‘Warriors Don’t Cry.’

The perception of people concerning different races will always cloud their judgment and the way that they will behave throughout. Beals is a black American who grows up in an all-black community segregated from the white people, who enjoy more privileges and basic rights than the blacks do. This explains why Beals and other eight (Little Rock Nine Group) of her friends had the desire to join the white school (Central High school). Their efforts to join Central High School are faced with a lot of resistance. The number of black students to be integrated into white schools is reduced to prevent escalating violence.  Moreover, lawsuits are filed in court in a bid to stop black students from joining the school. Beals’s study attracts a lot of conflict from other students. A group of white boys in the school cafeteria, for example, attacks Minnijean, and the events build up to her expulsion. For example, “the white boys celebrate that one ‘nigger’ was down[2].’’ This phrase proves that there is a system of Beals’s narration, which both the white and the black individuals acknowledge. The blacks are the victims of suffrage caused by the whites, who fear that they may be overthrown. The blacks also contribute to the continuity of the system due to fear of payback for rising. There is a lot of hatred emanating from the mistrust created by this fear. This, therefore, provides a major hindrance to the efforts of achieving equality for all. People will always have prejudices and racism will be difficult to eradicate.

Political systems and factors provide a major problem towards the realization of the purposes of civil rights movement. Beal, in ‘'Warriors Don’t Cry’’, talks of “Brown v. the Board of Education that was a ruling of integration by the court that was subject to various political forces. ’Governor Faubus sends his Arkansas guards to the school to prevent the black students from entering the school[3]. Judge Ronald orders the black students to be allowed to attend school days after. President Eisenhower conducts a meeting with this governor, which fails to meet the purpose of creating harmony, and he decides to deploy Airborne Division of war heroes to the school. This was after the Governor had threatened an up rise in violence, before withdrawing his troops. There is a lot of political interference in the Civil rights Movement, some of which provide a major obstacle towards the accomplishment of equality. 

Civil rights’ objective of equality will help to integrate a group of people in the long term. It is through integration; (brought by equality) that Beals can socialize with the white people in her school. It is true that people can make decisions based on other values like love, other than race. Link was a white boy who rescued Beals from her tormentors. Link is attracted to Beals, and as a result, he warns her of the impending plans by her segregationists. Link’s love for black persons is humanized by his love for his black nanny, Nana Healey. Beals is convinced that she can put her trust in some of the white people. We also see Beals getting married to John who was a white soldier. Link is furious when he is informed that Beals is married to a white man because it was uncharacteristic of her to date a white man as she always maintained. The rules of the game are changing as we can see Beals trying to relate to people based on their opinions rather than race, outside the circle racial discrimination build by history[4]. Civil Rights Movement is trying to bridge the gap in the racial differences set up by the community, which will provide a fair ground of interaction among the human race.

The meaning of civil rights has evolved to give the impression of true equality to all, irrespective of their race and other characteristics that differentiate a group of people. These rights are important in providing equal treatment to all human beings. The discrimination of the blacks by the whites in Beals’s book represents the unequal treatment of individuals in various sectors like employment and public resources[5]. This unfair treatment is what civil rights aim to abolish. The government is responsible for protecting civil rights within a state, and it must do so when required, to reduce conflict. This is however not the solution because the real solution lies in people acknowledging the differences in individuals and accepting them for whom they are.     

Civil Rights Movement represents the need for equality irrespective of one’s gender, race, and religion and so on. Beals along with other black students made the decision of standing up against violent threats and match up to the integration challenge. The students had a common goal which was to bring about equality and justice regardless of the existing segregated society. But even more important was the fact that the individuals owned rather strong ideologies. However, the fearless young students later discovered that the integration represented a major struggle for them to stay alive given that Little Rock’s Segregationists rioted and persistently declined to obey the set laws. For them to attend the Little Rock’s Central High School for whites, Beals and her nine black friends were forced to face the type of mob cruelty that constrained President Eisenhower to assign combat soldiers to offer then protection. Under the examination of reporters from the global context who had to be present to examine the rioting mobs obstruct her admission to Central High and Little Rock’s crisis eruption, Beals being only fifteen years old was forced to learn skillful integration with the media which triggered her interest to pursue a journalism career[6].

Civil rights movement is all about the attempt assert wellness even though the condition demands otherwise. Segregation based on race is an act that led to undesirable consequences among the black community not only by being denied their natural rights but that did not stop them from being objective. For example, Grandma India helps Beals learn about inactive confrontation. This meant that she should confront even the most severe attack with a smile and demonstrate gratitude at all times. This clearly shows that power is not on one’s physical strength but it is more of having faith and inner determination not to quit. The white people riot in mob as they find power in numbers in the quest of conquering a small black populace which makes it clear that they do not own the power they claim to have. Beals shows that one is only a victim of segregation only if they give their consent and thus unless she gives the white the permission they cannot harm her. The humble act of rejecting fear when civil rights changes are threatening by the ruling group leads to equality and a successful reform. Beals’s unending commitment to reformation through Civil Rights Movement best illustrates that equality, not a choice but it must be fought for by those that desire it. As a black student segregation had not only shadowed her freedom but the ability to integrate with the rest of the world. The approach also demonstrates that Civil Rights Movements are advantageous as it secures the wellness of the vulnerable groups such as the black community. Media attention also plays part in exposing the crisis in general thus lighting the strong ideologies.

Civil rights goal is to challenge the existing power dynamic that places certain groups at the disadvantage. The south was characterized by intense segregation where the white was powerful while the black people held no rights. The defiance act by the young black students getting admitted at the white school presented such an authoritative significance since it threatened to transform the manner in which white segregationists exercised their control. With the movements along with other resistance activities, the integrationists led by Beals demonstrated that the influence and control of the white segregationists was only a delicate delusion[7]. Beals’s experience and struggle to create reform that incorporated equality clearly demonstrates that the authority held by the whites was mainly fueled by the black community consent. In that ones, the black people began to resist and withdrew theirs even in small populations the power organization began to decrease.

In summing up, Civil Rights Movement can never be successful if those that desire change never acknowledges the existing issue. In that throughout the narrative individual’s observation of racial differences hinders their will for change. Beals is raised in a segregated environment where the black community does not even enjoy basic rights while the whites do. From the story, it is evident that the system is fully approved both by the black and white people. It is obvious that fear can drive segregation since the blacks approved of the segregated system simply because they feared vengeance from whites[8]. While the whites fear that their privileged lives will be taken by the blacks if they fought successfully for change, blacks cannot afford to be punished by the rulers as whites. The shared fear leads to the rise of hatred threatening violence. Even though Beals has justified reasons to mistreat the whites she learns from the movement that other than trust reform is a choice that can be made passively without having to be violent or causing harm. In other words, the Civil rights aim is to create stability and encourage togetherness rather than proving to be superior.

References

Beals, Melba Pattillo. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High. United States: Washington Square Press, 1995.

Christensen, Linda. Warriors Don’t Cry: Connecting History, Literature and Our lives. N.D.  Retrieved from: https://zinnedproject.org/materials/warriors-dont-cry-teaching-activity/

Curless, Renae. Warriors Don’t Cry and Protest in the Civil Rights Movement. George Washington Carver school of Engineering and science, 2018. Retrieved from: http://theteachersinstitute.org/sites/default/files/17.3.04%20-%20unit.pdf

Sparknotes. Warriors Don’t Cry Plot Overview. 2017. (Accessed February 17, 2018). Retrieved from: http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/warriorsdontcry/summary/

[1] Beals, Melba Pattillo. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High. (United States: Washington Square Press, 1995).

[2] Sparknotes. Warriors Don’t Cry Plot Overview. 2017. Sparknotes (1).

[3] Beals, Melba Pattillo. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High. (United States: Washington Square Press, 1995).

[4] Beals, Melba Pattillo. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High. (United States: Washington Square Press, 1995).

[5] Christensen, Linda. Warriors Don’t Cry: Connecting History, Literature and Our lives. N.D 1-1.

[6] Curless, Renae. Warriors Don’t Cry and Protest in the Civil Rights Movement. (George Washington Carver school of Engineering and science, 2018). 19.

[7] Curless, Renae. Warriors Don’t Cry and Protest in the Civil Rights Movement. (George Washington Carver school of Engineering and science, 2018). 19

[8] Curless, Renae. Warriors Don’t Cry and Protest in the Civil Rights Movement. (George Washington Carver school of Engineering and science, 2018). 19

NON – STATE ACTORS AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Question 1: Outline the problems and challenges that arise in ensuring that the activities of transitional activities are consistent with the human standard?

              The government does not take or follow the necessary measures to ensure that TNCS complies with the laws and regulations.  In developing countries, such measures are more costly beyond their resource capabilities. Difficulties arise especially in the labour areas where countries have different accepted standards. There is competition between countries which discourages initiatives that’s might increase labour costs that makes one country look less attractive than others with less regulatory standards.  Also, the transitional complexity of manufacturing in an era of globalization makes it hard in identifying who is responsible for what activities and where.

Question 2:  In what ways can company violate the human right or can risk complicity?

            Through trade unions where companies provide employees information such as, names, phone numbers, and addresses to the government which is against the trade unions operations. Or calls in the police who brutally and disperse trade union officials.   Also, through technology where some companies provide technology to the government to abuse human rights.  The company can risk complicity by employing people without a valid visa to work under poor conditions. With the increase in human trafficking and abuse of migrant workers especially from developing countries, companies should be careful in using migrant labour directly. The company can run in the risk of being complicity through armed conflicts, where companies provide money, resources, infrastructure, products that support the abuse of human rights in the situation of armed conflict.

            Companies should respect and support the protection of human rights and they should avoid being complicit in human rights violation. Also, they should eliminate all forms of slavery and forced labour. Companies should come up with ways to effectively eliminate child labour and discrimination in their work.

The following is the most provoking question from the reading:

Question: Can transnational bodies pay no attention to human rights violation as long as the government does not shift the blame to them?

 Reference

Chapter 15: Non state actors and human rights. N.D. Pp. 1385-1399.