Good afternoon,

It’s Tuesday, March 17, and welcome back to another edition of the Keystone Labor Report. 

It’s also St. Patrick’s Day, and I want to wish everyone who celebrates it a wonderful holiday. 

I have a quick confession to make. 

Even though I was one of many “Sean Patricks” to graduate from my class at Roman Catholic High School, I come from a German, Irish, and Italian family in a working-class part of Philadelphia, and this St. Patrick’s Day, we should take some time to remember the contributions immigrants have made to this country. 

It was only a few generations ago when my ancestors arrived in this country, and they were largely not welcomed here with open arms. I also remember some of the stories of discrimination my grandparents faced growing up as first or second generation Americans. 

The types of stories and shared histories immigrants faced coming to this country and the contributions they made for the labor movement is something to keep in mind on days like today.

(Daphy Michel)

Daphy Michel, a 31-year-old Haitian immigrant, was found dead at a bus stop on streets of South Pittsburgh after being released from ICE custody earlier this month, and this incident has Allegheny County officials asking questions. 

Michel was arrested in Washington County last fall after suffering from a mental health issue, and was released from jail after a judge dropped her charges. Once released, she was picked up by ICE, placed on their “Alternatives to Deportation,” and released from custody with an ankle monitor. 

Michel died a few days later almost an hour away from her Charleroi, Washington County home.

“Daphy Michel’s death is heartbreaking, and my thoughts are with her family and loved ones as they search for answers. Daphy should not have been left alone and vulnerable after being released from federal custody in a city far from her family and support system, especially as she faced language barriers and mental health challenges,” US House Rep. Summer Lee (D-Allegheny) said in a statement.

We believe news should help people feel informed about their communities and confident when it’s time to make decisions—including at the ballot box. If you value local reporting and want to help keep it accessible to everyone, we hope you’ll consider contributing during our spring grassroots fundraising drive.

(Sean Kitchen / The Keystone)

Altoona: come for the pizza and stay for the special election. 

All eyes will be on Altoona this evening waiting for the results in a special election for an open Pennsylvania House seat. 

Democrats feel bullish about Caleb McCoy’s chances and like they have a slim chance at taking the seat despite the clear advantage Republicans have in the district. 

One thing is sure though. Democrats are going to outperform in a district dominated by Republicans, but the question is whether they will be able to get over the hump or not.