Category Archives: law

community, education, events, law, politics

WURD holds Founder’s Day Gala to recognize contributions of Dr. Walter Lomax

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WURD Radio held its annual gala over the weekend at the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center, recognizing the contributions of Dr. Walter P. Lomax, the founder of the station. The event celebrated the station’s 13th year of existence and highlighted the impact WURD has had in informing the Black community in Philadelphia.

“I really just want to thank everyone who is here,” said Sara Lomax, president and CEO of WURD Radio. “These are really challenging times for an organization like WURD. We sit at the intersection of media, which is under attack, and Black media empowerment, which is absolutely under attack.” Lomax expressed deep gratitude for the support the station has received from its listeners and the community at large.

At the event, WURD announced the launch of “Freedom Journeys: Celebrating the Lives of 250 Phenomenal Philadelphians,” a multimedia project that will spotlight the work of Black residents—both past and present—who have made a significant impact. The two- to three-minute video presentations will air on WURD leading up to Philadelphia’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday in 2026.

“The point is we’re under attack right now,” said City Council President Kenyatta Johnson during the event. “We know African American history is American history, so this evening is an invitation for all of us to stand and speak truth to power.”

This year’s recipients of the 2025 Community Impact Award included:

– Loree Jones Brown, CEO of Philabundance
– Solomon Jones, WURD Radio host and executive director of ManUp PHL
– Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute
– Dolores Robinson, trailblazing talent agent and producer

“At this moment when our nation’s leaders are not demonstrating compassion, our work is even more important,” said Loree Jones Brown. “The weight of these challenges and the scale of the work can be overwhelming—that is why I am grateful not to have to labor alone. Nights like this lighten the burden.”

Jones Brown added that she hoped everyone who attended the event felt encouraged, knowing they are all part of the fight to make Philadelphia, the country, and their communities better places. “Everything I’ve done, I’ve done out of love for my people,” she said. “I am honored to be honored by my own, and I am grateful for the platform that I have been given at WURD. I love our folks.”

The Founder’s Day event also included a “Defenders of Democracy” panel discussion featuring attorneys Michael Coard, Keir Bradford-Grey, and Dorothy Robinson. Moderated by WURD host James Peterson, the panel focused on the state of democracy in the United States, legal strategies to protect the civil rights of African Americans, immigration issues, and the military occupation of American cities.

The discussion helped attendees and listeners understand the moment they are living in and connected them to legal resources.

“People often say that things are getting worse in America—that’s not really true,” said Michael Coard. “Racism is more visible in America; we’re figuring out a plan to reignite the civil rights–type litigation of the 50s and 60s.” Coard also emphasized the vital role that Black media has played in Black activism in America, helping to tell the stories of struggles and issues faced by Black communities and the nation as a whole.

Mayor Cherelle Parker, who also spoke at the event, reflected on the significance of the gathering. “What it (the meeting) affirms for me is that all of us, in our own right, have a role,” she said. “There are different ways that we can contribute to the social and economic advancement of African and African American people here in our great city.”

—

**Panel Photo Caption:**
The “Defenders of Democracy” panel featured attorneys Michael Coard (second from left), Keir Bradford-Grey (center), and Dorothy Robinson (right). The discussion was moderated by WURD host James Peterson. — TRIBUNE PHOTO/KYLAN WATSON

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https://www.phillytrib.com/news/local_news/wurd-holds-founders-day-gala-to-recognize-contributions-of-dr-walter-lomax/article_e8442cf1-6886-4520-af6d-55b89c367424.html

community, education, events, law, politics

WURD holds Founder’s Day Gala to recognize contributions of Dr. Walter Lomax

Leave a comment

WURD Radio held its annual gala over the weekend at the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center, recognizing the contributions of Dr. Walter P. Lomax, the founder of the station. The event celebrated the station’s 13th year of existence and highlighted the significant impact WURD has had in informing Philadelphia’s Black community.

“I really just want to thank everyone who is here,” said Sara Lomax, president and CEO of WURD Radio. “These are really challenging times for an organization like WURD. We sit at the intersection of media, which is under attack, and Black media empowerment, which is absolutely under attack.” Lomax expressed deep gratitude for the ongoing support from listeners and the wider community.

During the event, WURD announced the launch of “Freedom Journeys: Celebrating the Lives of 250 Phenomenal Philadelphians,” a new multimedia project spotlighting the work of Black residents—both past and present—who have made an impact. These two to three-minute video presentations will air on WURD leading up to Philadelphia’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday in 2026.

“The point is we’re under attack right now,” said City Council President Kenyatta Johnson in his remarks. “We know African American history is American history, and so this evening is an invitation for all of us to stand and speak truth to power.”

### Community Impact Award Recipients

This year’s recipients of the 2025 Community Impact Award included:

– Loree Jones Brown, CEO of Philabundance
– Solomon Jones, WURD Radio host and executive director of ManUp PHL
– Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer at the Franklin Institute
– Dolores Robinson, trailblazing talent agent and producer

“It’s moments like these, when our nation’s leaders are not demonstrating compassion, that our work becomes even more important,” said Loree Jones Brown. “The weight of these challenges and the scale of the work can be overwhelming. That is why I am grateful not to have to labor alone. Nights like this lighten the burden.”

Jones Brown also shared words of encouragement for all who attended. “We are all in this fight to make Philadelphia, the country, and our communities better places. Everything I’ve done, I’ve done out of love for my people,” she said. “I am honored to be honored by my own, and I am grateful for the platform that I have been given at WURD. I love our folks.”

### “Defenders of Democracy” Panel Discussion

The Founder’s Day event featured a “Defenders of Democracy” panel discussion, moderated by WURD host James Peterson. The panel included attorneys Michael Coard, Keir Bradford-Grey, and Dolores Robinson. They focused on the current state of democracy in the United States, legal strategies to protect the civil rights of African Americans, immigration, and the military occupation of American cities.

“People often say that things are getting worse in America; that’s not really true,” said Michael Coard. “Racism is more visible in America, and we’re figuring out a plan to reignite the civil rights-type litigation of the 50s and 60s.” Coard emphasized the importance of Black media in activism, telling the stories of the struggles and issues that Black communities face across the nation.

Mayor Cherelle Parker, who also spoke at the event, said, “What this meeting affirms for me is that all of us, in our own right, have a role to play. There are many ways we can contribute to the social and economic advancement of African and African American people here in our great city.”

—

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– **Turn Off Your Caps Lock:** Avoid using all caps.
– **Don’t Threaten:** Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
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*Photo caption:* The event included a “Defenders of Democracy” panel discussion featuring attorneys Michael Coard (second from left), Keir Bradford-Grey (center), and Dorothy Robinson (right). The discussion was moderated by WURD host James Peterson. — TRIBUNE PHOTO/KYLAN WATSON
https://www.phillytrib.com/news/local_news/wurd-holds-founders-day-gala-to-recognize-contributions-of-dr-walter-lomax/article_e8442cf1-6886-4520-af6d-55b89c367424.html

courts, criminal, justice, law

Prosecution granted two weeks to respond to Yonatan Urich’s Supreme Court appeal

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Prosecution Granted Two Weeks to Respond to Yonatan Urich’s Supreme Court Appeal

The prosecution has been given two weeks to respond to Yonatan Urich’s appeal to the Supreme Court. One of the most significant—and, according to Urich’s lawyers, the most pressing—restrictions in place is the occupation ban. This ban prohibits Urich from returning to his former places of employment.

Yonatan Urich arrives for a court hearing as part of the ‘Qatargate’ affair in Lod, August 19, 2025.
(Photo credit: Jonathan Shaul/Flash90)

By SARAH BEN-NUN
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-869635

ethics, india, judiciary, law, legal

Bar Council of India suspends advocate who tried to hurl shoe at CJI Gavai

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The Bar Council of India (BCI) on Monday suspended the practice of Advocate Rakesh Kishore, a 71-year-old lawyer who allegedly attempted to hurl a shoe at Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai during court proceedings. The council has also initiated disciplinary proceedings against him, news agency PTI reported.

In a shocking breach of decorum, Kishore reportedly approached the dais during a hearing and tried to throw a shoe at the CJI, but was promptly stopped by security personnel.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) has strongly condemned the incident in a unanimous resolution, according to PTI. Headed by Vipin Nair, the association described Kishore’s act as a “disrespectful and intemperate gesture” by an advocate.

In a statement, SCAORA secretary Nikhil Jain urged the Supreme Court to “take suo motu cognizance of the said conduct and initiate appropriate proceedings for contempt of court, as the act/gesture is a calculated move to scandalise the authority of the Hon’ble Supreme Court and lower its dignity in the eyes of the public.”

The association emphasised that freedom of speech carries a duty of restraint, particularly for members of the legal profession, who are officers of the court.

It expressed “deep anguish and disapproval at the recent act of an advocate who, by his unwarranted and intemperate gesture, sought to disrespect the office and authority of the Hon’ble Chief Justice of India and his companion Judges.”

According to SCAORA, such conduct is unbecoming of a member of the Bar and undermines the mutual respect between the “Bench and the Bar.” The body added that this behaviour is antithetical to the dignity of the legal profession and contrary to constitutional values of decorum, discipline, and institutional integrity.

“Any attempt to malign or a personalised act/gesture aimed against a sitting judge of the Hon’ble Supreme Court constitutes a direct assault on the independence of the judiciary and undermines public faith in the justice delivery system,” SCAORA stated.

The association condemned the incident as a “cowardly and disrespectful act” and affirmed its complete solidarity with the CJI and the entire judiciary in upholding the majesty, independence, and impartiality of the Supreme Court.

(With PTI inputs)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/attempted-attack-on-cji-br-gavai-bar-council-of-india-suspends-advocate-rakesh-kishore-23597477

crime, international, law, military, politics

Trump defies court order; deploys National Guard to Oregon, Chicago

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**Trump Defies Court Order; Deploys National Guard to Oregon and Chicago**

*By Snehil Singh | October 6, 2025, 10:57 AM*

United States President Donald Trump has defied a federal court order by deploying National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon, and Chicago, Illinois. This move follows a judge’s temporary block on the deployment of 200 troops to Oregon.

California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the decision, announcing plans to sue and describing the action as “un-American” and “a breathtaking abuse of the law and power.”

### Deployment Details

President Trump authorized the deployment of 300 National Guard troops to Chicago to address what he called “out-of-control crime.” The decision came after clashes between immigration authorities and protesters in Chicago, where officials reported that an armed woman was shot following allegations that she and others rammed their cars into police vehicles.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon confirmed that 200 members of the California National Guard were reassigned to Portland in support of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal personnel. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek confirmed that 101 California National Guard members had already arrived in Oregon.

### Lack of Communication and Local Opposition

Governor Kotek revealed that there was no official communication from the federal government regarding the deployment. She emphasized, “There is no need for military intervention in Oregon. There is no insurrection in Portland. No threat to national security.”

The California National Guard had been federally activated in June for a 90-day period as part of President Trump’s broader strategy to combat rising crime and assist with deportation efforts. The California Department of Justice confirmed that the Trump administration sought to extend this federalization for an additional 90 days.

### Ongoing Protests and Political Context

Protests continue in Portland and other cities in response to the Trump administration’s increased immigration enforcement. Portland is noted for having a significant presence of Antifa activists—a loosely organized group of far-left activists. Recently, President Trump signed an executive order designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.

### Reactions from Illinois Leadership

The Illinois governor accused President Trump of “manufacturing a crisis” by deploying troops, suggesting the move is politically motivated rather than based on actual public safety needs.

—

The deployment of National Guard troops to Portland and Chicago marks a contentious escalation in the ongoing tensions between federal authorities and local governments, highlighting deep divisions over immigration enforcement and public safety strategies.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-defies-court-sends-national-guard-troops-to-oregon-chicago/story

construction, consumer rights, law, real estate

Consumer Connect: ‘Builder Cannot Forfeit More Than 2% On Flat Booking Cancellation,’ Says Expert

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Can the Builder Forfeit 10% Booking Amount on Flat Cancellation? Understanding Your Rights Under RERA

Question: My friend booked a flat in Kandivali on March 15, 2025, by paying Rs 17 lakh, which is 10% of the total flat cost. The builder issued only an allotment letter mentioning the flat number, total area, cost, and possession date. In May, my friend received a transfer order and had to cancel the booking on May 28, 2025. He requested the builder to refund the amount paid, but the builder claimed that, as per the terms in the allotment letter, the entire 10% amount would be forfeited. Can the builder legally do this under RERA? What are the rights of homebuyers in such cases, and what is the maximum deduction allowed? – Rajendra Rane, Borivali (West)

Answer:

Under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA), homebuyers enjoy specific protections regarding the cancellation and refund of property bookings.

MahaRERA has issued a model allotment letter that all builders must use when accepting booking amounts, with the booking amount capped at 10% of the total flat cost.

Further, as per MahaRERA’s official orders dated August 12, 2022, and September 3, 2024, if a homebuyer cancels a booking, the builder can forfeit only a maximum of 2% of the total flat cost.

Refund Deduction Caps Under MahaRERA

  • Within 15 days of booking: Full refund with no deduction.
  • Between 16 and 30 days: Deduction up to 1% of the total flat cost.
  • Between 31 and 60 days: Deduction up to 1.5%.
  • Beyond 60 days: Deduction up to 2% only.

In your friend’s case, since the cancellation was made after 60 days, the builder can legally deduct only 2% of the flat’s cost and must refund the remaining amount.

Therefore, the clause in the allotment letter allowing forfeiture of the entire 10% booking amount is contrary to MahaRERA’s orders and is unenforceable.

Unfortunately, many builders still include such arbitrary forfeiture clauses in allotment letters, ignoring MahaRERA’s clear directives.

Relevant Case Law: Preeti Dwivedi vs. Raymond Realty

In this case, the complainant paid Rs 6.07 lakh as a booking amount for a Rs 1.16 crore flat. After cancelling the booking within three months, Raymond Realty insisted on forfeiting 10%, citing its allotment letter.

MahaRERA held the 10% forfeiture clause to be arbitrary and directed the builder to deduct only 2% and refund the balance to the homebuyer.

Additional MahaRERA Provisions

  • Builders must refund the balance amount within 45 days of cancellation.
  • If the builder fails to refund within this period, they are liable to pay penal interest at MCLR + 2% per annum on the refund amount.

These rules protect homebuyers from unfair forfeiture clauses and ensure fairness and accountability in property transactions.

Homebuyers often have genuine reasons to cancel bookings, but builders have long exploited such situations by imposing harsh forfeiture terms. MahaRERA’s regulations now safeguard consumer rights in these matters.

Advocate Shirish V Deshpande is chairman of Mumbai Grahak Panchayat. Queries can be sent to him at shirish50@yahoo.com.

For exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai and surrounding regions, visit: https://budgetproperties.in/

https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/consumer-connect-builder-cannot-forfeit-more-than-2-on-flat-booking-cancellation-says-expert

construction, consumer rights, law, real estate

Consumer Connect: ‘Builder Cannot Forfeit More Than 2% On Flat Booking Cancellation,’ Says Expert

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**Can the Builder Forfeit 10% Booking Amount on Flat Cancellation? What Are Homebuyers’ Rights Under RERA?**
*By Advocate Shirish V Deshpande, Chairman, Mumbai Grahak Panchayat*

—

**Question:**
My friend booked a flat in Kandivali on March 15, 2025, by paying Rs 17 lakh, which is 10% of the total flat cost. The builder issued only an allotment letter mentioning details such as the flat number, total area, cost, and possession date.

In May, my friend received a transfer order and had to cancel the booking on May 28, 2025. He requested the builder to refund the amount paid, but the builder claimed that, as per the terms in the allotment letter, the entire 10% amount would be forfeited.

Can the builder legally do this under RERA? What are the rights of homebuyers in such cases, and what is the maximum deduction allowed?
— Rajendra Rane, Borivali (West)

—

**Answer:**

Under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA), homebuyers enjoy clearly defined rights regarding the cancellation and refund of property bookings.

MahaRERA has issued a **model allotment letter** that every builder must use when accepting the booking amount, which cannot exceed 10% of the total flat cost.

**What does MahaRERA say about cancellation and refund?**
According to MahaRERA’s orders dated August 12, 2022, and September 3, 2024:

– If a homebuyer cancels a booking, the builder can **forfeit a maximum of 2% of the total flat cost**.
– Refund deductions are capped depending on the cancellation timeline:

– **Within 15 days of booking:** Full refund, no deduction.
– **Between 16 and 30 days:** Deduction up to 1% of total flat cost.
– **Between 31 and 60 days:** Deduction up to 1.5%.
– **Beyond 60 days:** Deduction up to 2% only.

In your friend’s case, since the cancellation was made **after 60 days**, the builder can deduct only **2% of the flat’s cost** and must refund the remaining amount.

The clause in the allotment letter allowing forfeiture of the entire 10% amount is contrary to MahaRERA’s orders and is therefore **unenforceable**.

—

### Important Precedent: Preeti Dwivedi v/s Raymond Realty
In a similar case, the complainant had paid Rs 6.07 lakh as booking amount for a Rs 1.16 crore flat. After cancelling within three months, Raymond Realty insisted on forfeiting 10%, citing the allotment letter.

MahaRERA held the clause arbitrary and directed the builder to deduct only 2% and refund the balance to the homebuyer.

—

### Additional Buyer Protection under MahaRERA

– Builders **must refund the balance amount within 45 days** of cancellation.
– Failure to refund on time makes the builder liable to pay **penal interest at MCLR + 2% per annum** on the refund amount.

—

### What This Means for Homebuyers

Homebuyers often have genuine reasons to cancel bookings. Unfortunately, some builders impose unfair forfeiture clauses to exploit these situations. MahaRERA’s rules now protect homebuyers from such unfair practices, ensuring greater fairness and accountability in property transactions.

If you face similar issues, it is advisable to:

– Check whether the booking amount exceeds 10% of the total cost (which it should not).
– Verify whether the refund deductions comply with MahaRERA guidelines.
– Approach MahaRERA for dispute resolution in case of non-compliance.

—

*For further legal queries, you can write to Advocate Shirish V Deshpande at shirish50@yahoo.com.*

—

**Looking for budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai and surrounding areas?**
Visit [https://budgetproperties.in/](https://budgetproperties.in/) for exclusive listings and offers.

—

*Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/consumer-connect-builder-cannot-forfeit-more-than-2-on-flat-booking-cancellation-says-expert

constitution, india, law, politics

Rule Of Law Vs Rule By Force

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The principal characteristic of the Indian Constitution is the rule of law it mandates. This foundational principle envisions that the law, established under the constitutional framework, holds primacy over all other considerations—be they individual, ideological, or political. It is the bedrock that ensures we are a nation governed by laws, not by men.

This ideal, however, has faced a starkly modern challenge: the rise of ‘bulldozer justice’. In states like Uttar Pradesh, governments have employed strong-arm methods, using machinery to raze homes and properties of individuals deemed suspects, bypassing the judicial process entirely. This practice conflates accusation with guilt and allows the executive to act as judge, jury, and executioner.

It creates a dangerous precedent where the government of the day believes it can operate outside the sanctity of established legal procedure. What began as a political theatre of “instant justice” has now become an instrument of fear and selective punishment, often targeting minorities or dissenters.

It is against this backdrop that Chief Justice of India BR Gavai’s recent remarks in Mauritius carry profound significance. Defending his own verdict, he emphatically stated that the Indian legal system is governed by the “rule of law, not by the rule of the bulldozer.” The Supreme Court’s ruling, which held that such demolitions violate the rule of law and infringe upon the fundamental right to shelter, was a necessary and powerful corrective.

It reaffirmed that the executive’s authority is not absolute but is circumscribed by constitutional morality and judicial oversight. This judicial stance is deeply rooted in our constitutional history, notably the Kesavananda Bharati case, which established that the Constitution’s basic structure is immutable.

While not exhaustively defined, this structure is undeniably animated by the principles enshrined in the Preamble—Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. ‘Bulldozer justice’ assaults each of these ideals, substituting the rule of reason with the rule of muscle.

Yet, a sobering reality remains. The courts often move at a deliberate pace, granting the executive considerable leeway to act in the interim. This temporal gap between executive action and judicial redress can render the latter a pyrrhic victory for those whose homes and rights are instantly demolished. The damage is done long before the court’s pen can restore what the bulldozer’s blade destroyed.

Therefore, the judiciary’s role is not just to settle matters but to set boundaries—clearly, promptly, and fearlessly. As Justice Gavai articulated, the rule of law is not a rigid doctrine but a continuous conversation—a substantive principle that restrains arbitrary power and embeds democratic accountability.

In defending the Constitution against the bulldozer, the Supreme Court is defending the very idea of India as a democratic republic where no one is above the law.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/analysis/rule-of-law-vs-rule-by-force

crime, culture, law, religion

Man arrested for using derogatory language against Hindu deities

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**Man Arrested for Using Derogatory Language Against Hindu Deities**

*By Snehil Singh | October 5, 2025, 5:31 PM*

The Delhi Police have arrested a 26-year-old man for allegedly using derogatory language against Hindu deities and police personnel. The accused, identified as Mohammad Shamshad Alam, was apprehended on Saturday in Southwest Delhi after a video of his remarks went viral on social media.

The arrest followed a PCR call received at the Vasant Kunj (South) police station. A police team promptly reached the spot near Ruby Nursery, close to the Chhatarpur Metro station, where the incident took place.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Amit Goel confirmed that the complainant, Ravi Kant, along with several members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), were present at the location. The viral footage showed Alam using abusive language targeting Hindu deities and police officers.

A case has been registered under Sections 196(1)(a) and 295 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at Vasant Kunj (South) police station. Section 196(1)(a) addresses promoting enmity between groups based on religion or race, while Section 295 pertains to deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings by insulting religion or beliefs.

Further investigations into the matter are ongoing.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/delhi-man-arrested-for-abusing-hindu-deities-police-in-video/story

business, entertainment, law, sports, women

WNBA Commissioner Opens Up About Collier, Officiating And CBA

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In Her Own Words: A Tough Week for WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed the media this Friday in Las Vegas ahead of Game 1 of the WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury. It was the first time she took questions since Napheesa Collier publicly criticized league leadership, including Engelbert herself, for malpractice and a lack of concern for player safety and wellbeing.

Collier’s comments, made during her exit interview, sent shockwaves throughout the league. Several players, including WNBPA President Nneka Ogwumike, expressed support for her stance. However, it took a couple of days before Engelbert spoke directly to the media and took questions.

### Engelbert’s Opening Statement

In her opening remarks, Engelbert expressed feeling disheartened that players don’t approve of her leadership. She announced plans to address officiating concerns and expressed confidence in reaching a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) soon. These were the main themes during the press conference.

### Addressing Collier’s Claims

When asked about the accusations made by Collier, Engelbert contested and denied several claims.

“There’s a lot of inaccuracy out there through social media and reporting,” Engelbert said. “You saw it in my statement, but I have the utmost respect for Napheesa and every single player in our league. They are at the center of everything we do. No one should ever doubt how deeply I care about this league, this game, and every single player who makes the WNBA what it is.”

Engelbert also denied reports that she made controversial comments about Caitlin Clark needing to be grateful to the WNBA for her $16 million earned through partnerships.

“Obviously, I did not make those comments. Caitlin has been a transformational player in this league. She’s been a great representative of the game. She’s brought in tens of millions of new fans,” Engelbert stated.

### Can Engelbert Still Lead the League?

One pressing question is whether the commissioner can continue to lead the league amid eroding trust from players. Engelbert appears confident despite the challenges.

“I feel confident that we can repair any loss of trust,” she said. “We’ll dialogue with players — one-on-one relationships and group discussions. Players have reached out to me.”

### Officiating Concerns Highlighted

Engelbert acknowledged misalignment between the league’s stakeholders regarding officiating. According to injury trackers from ESPN and Rotowire, at least 30 players were sidelined either temporarily or for the rest of the 2025 season. This includes stars such as Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, accounting for roughly 20% of roster pieces being displaced.

To tackle these concerns, the league is implementing two key initiatives:

1. **Annual Competition Committee Meeting:** At the end of the season, the league’s competition committee will evaluate the state of the game, including rules, officiating, and player safety. Players and the Players Association are invited to engage in this process.

2. **New Multi-Stakeholder Task Force:** The league is establishing a “state-of-the-game” committee that will include player voices and other stakeholders. This task force aims to ensure that officiating evolves alongside the league’s growth.

Engelbert emphasized the importance of player perspectives:

“There are no greater stakeholders than our players. Their voice is integral to the alignment required for good officiating. We look forward to including their input on how our staff can better serve the game moving forward.”

### CBA Negotiations Ongoing

The path ahead remains challenging for Engelbert, with a looming deadline for a new CBA. Uncertainty persists about whether players and the league will find common ground. While players predict a difficult negotiation that might lead to a lockout, Engelbert remains optimistic.

“We’re working really hard. We have a couple of meetings next week,” she said. “While I hope we meet the October 31st deadline — and that is a real deadline — we have extended deadlines in the past. When I started, a few days in, we extended the deadline and reached a progressive deal.”

Reflecting on her first months as commissioner in 2019 during previous CBA talks, Engelbert noted:

“We have a lot of experience in these negotiations, even before I got here. It’s a balance. We want to ensure there’s no interruption, but of course, that will be up to the players and owners.”

### The Revenue Share Debate

Revenue share remains a key point of contention. Players’ recent statements indicate dissatisfaction with the league’s offers, while Engelbert stresses the importance of long-term sustainability.

“We’ve made proposals with significant revenue share components — in money and structure,” Engelbert explained. “They’re obviously bargaining for more. The balance is between returning every dollar we can and ensuring owners remain incentivized to invest.”

### Players Continue to Support Collier

Following the press conference, some players reiterated their support for Napheesa Collier, continuing to apply pressure on the WNBA commissioner.

—

The coming weeks will be critical for the WNBA as it navigates leadership challenges, player concerns, and the future of the league’s labor agreement. Fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely as dialogue and negotiations unfold.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/finance/wnba-commissioner-opens-up-about-collier-officiating-and-cba/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wnba-commissioner-opens-up-about-collier-officiating-and-cba