#how to build compassionate policies

[jantanow]

करुणा के बिना अधूरी है विकास की परिभाषा: अमन कुमार

आज जब हम बीसवीं सदी के तीसरे दशक की ओर बढ़ रहे हैं, तो ‘विकास’ हमारे समय का सबसे प्रचलित शब्द बन चुका है। नीतियों की घोषणा से लेकर बजट की प्रस्तुति तक और चुनावी नारों से लेकर अंतरराष्ट्रीय मंचों तक… हर कहीं विकास की बातें हो रही हैं। लेकिन एक सवाल जो अकसर अछूता रह जाता है वह यह है कि क्या यह विकास संपूर्ण है? क्या यह विकास सभी के लिए है? और सबसे महत्वपूर्ण प्रश्न है कि क्या यह विकास करुणा से…

[kalinara]

(X-Men #24)

So this was always a really interesting scene to me. It's the last X-Men during the Krakoa era before everything goes to Hell. And honestly, I like this much better than their disagreement about the Brood.

(Surprise, I like the disagreement where my favorite is at least partially right versus the one where he's blatantly wrong.)

Tangentially, I really like the mention that Scott was directly involved in the creation of the Treehouse. I've mentioned it before, but there's this kind of never-directly-addressed thread of Scott just like building bases out of things. The Treehouse, the Summer House on the Moon, Utopia out of Asteroid M, the hideout in Weapons X, the refurbished Sentinel Facility that they're using now, arguably even the spaceship that Jean mentions him giving her in Phoenix.

Maybe that's the career that Scott should be looking into outside of the X-Men: architect. Or Interior Designer. I bet he'd be great, as long as you don't mind that your porches and balconies are also the most efficient height to be used as security turrets.

But anyway, there's a lot to think about here.

a) I think it's fascinating to see how differently Scott and Jean see Arakko. For her, it's an achievement to be proud of. For him, it's a mistake and a weapon for their adversaries.

But it's particularly interesting that the creation of Arakko happened during the first Hellfire Gala. We're leading into the third. I don't think that the Galas are happening in real time, and certainly in a few years, the rolling timeline won't allow them to be. But it's fascinating that for however long the span between Galas was, this is the first time Scott has ever actually talked about it.

Scott hasn't hesitated to be critical of Krakoan policies in the past. But he's kept his mouth shut and just...never went there. And that's a little mind-boggling in its own right when you think about it.

Scott loves space. He built their home ON THE MOON. Mars has now become the nexus point for Earth's diplomatic contact with the rest of the universe. His son is there a LOT.

And we know how he feels whenever Jean does anything particularly goddess-y. So it's a really interesting character beat that Scott has never been there. Especially since Scott being there or not being there would have no effect on whether or not Arakko can be used against them. You'd think he'd rather set up some strategic advantages in case the worst happens.

But then, it's interesting to think about how, as Krakoa continues onward, and the issues become more and more obvious, Scott's detached from all of it. The X-Men are based in New York. Not an island somewhere. Well. I mean, New York IS an island. But you know what I mean.

And I'm reminded of Scott's letter in Fall of House of X, where he reinforces that he IS an American citizen as well as a mutant. And how when it comes time to start the X-Men again after the fall, he bases them in his birthplace.

(Well, some of the events were unprecedented. But they didn't need to resettle the Sentinel Factory. They could have gone literally anywhere else as long as Illyana's still willing to teleport them.)

Scott responds to Krakoa by becoming more entrenched with humanity and Earth, and that's interesting.

b) Jean's side is interesting too. Because on one hand, Jean's articulating the more compassionate and emotional side. Love will find a way.

But at the same time, Jean's the one reinforcing the idea that they're different from humanity. She's the one saying that they've tried pretending to be the same as "them" for their entire lives and gotten nowhere.

And it's particularly interesting that she's articulating this idea while dealing with her perpetual rejection of her Phoenix side (something we won't see resolved until Krakoa's fall.)

To Jean, Arakko is an achievement, and she's understandably hurt that her husband doesn't seem inclined to share in that. (And we know he's not the kind of man who refuses to share in his wife's accomplishments.) But it's interesting that we've never seen JEAN on Arakko either. I assume she's been there since the creation, or she wouldn't be calling him out for never seeing it. But it's not a place that she seems to vibe with.

Though who knows what would have happened when they retired from the X-Men... Maybe they'd have settled in Magneto's old digs.

It would have been really interesting to see Scott and Jean dealing with the particular culture of Arakko. Jean, at least, has the requisite power level to be taken seriously. But her mindset is very different. She'd be respectful of course, but there's no real way that she'd be comfortable there.

And then there's Cyclops. Because he's definitely not an omega mutant as Krakoa defines it - he's a very decorative gun, basically. And he's no more an Arakkan in ideology than Jean is. But, rather like Storm, he's got the ability to assert himself and a morality that's more conventional than the people around him and get results. Though maybe it'd be a challenge better suited to Utopia-era Scott than Krakoa-era.

Missed opportunities maybe.

c) I kind of love how this issue leaves it open what Scott will decide. Of course, the beginning of the Hellfire Gala issue shows us that they apparently continued their conversation and Scott has agreed with her to leave the X-Men. There's no suspense about that decision.

I wonder if it would have worked. I'm guessing not for long, for either of them.

[thinkmarkthink]

🎓 Wayne Academy Faculty List

🏫 Principal Alfred Pennyworth

Wears tailored suits. Enforces dress code with a raised eyebrow and tea with intent. Students are terrified of disappointing him. The only man in the building with absolute authority. Calls staff meetings “tea service.” Once fought a senator over arts funding. Won.

🧪 Bruce Wayne – AP Physics & Administrative Oversight

No one understands why a billionaire teaches one class a year, but he does. It’s AP Physics. It’s brutal. He never uses notes. The chalkboard is covered in equations no one understands. One time he taught class with a dislocated shoulder. Half the students have crushes on him. The other half think he’s Batman. They’re right. He denies everything.

🩰 Cassandra Cain – Dance & Movement Therapy

Her classroom is a silent sanctuary. You speak with your body. She can correct your posture with one glance. There is always soft music and bruised knees and unexpected catharsis. Once a week she does “Combat Choreo” where the dance class fights each other with foam swords. Somehow it’s still ballet.

🎭 Dick Grayson – Drama & PE

He teaches Shakespeare and backflips. Once did a monologue from Hamlet on the uneven bars. Has a “no toxic theatre kid” policy, which he enforces via somersault. The theatre department has glitter budgets and foam weapons. Gym class includes yoga, acrobatics, and the occasional obstacle course set up by Batman himself.

🖤 Jason Todd – English & Literary Analysis

His syllabus includes Frankenstein, The Count of Monte Cristo, and Catcher in the Rye, but he lets kids do their book reports via PowerPoint, cosplay, or fistfights (graded on argument structure). He says “fuck” once a week and dares the school board to fire him. Students trust him with their deepest trauma. He’s terrifying. He brings donuts.

💻 Tim Drake – Computer Science & Math

His class is a chaotic blend of hacker ethics, binary theory, and blackmail prevention. He wears mismatched socks and grades at 3AM. Has written two textbooks under a pseudonym. Can’t remember anyone’s name but knows their IP address. Every quiz ends with a trick question. His classroom runs entirely on caffeine and dread.

🎨 Damian Wayne – Visual Art & Advanced Ethics

Teaches with the rigor of a military commander and the finesse of a tiny, judgmental renaissance master. Has a sword in his classroom. Destroys students with critiques like “You are better than this. Start again.” Holds yearly gallery shows that make critics weep. Also runs the falconry club. No one’s quite sure how.

📖 Duke Thomas – History & Social Justice

His classroom is alive. Debates, documentaries, timeline murals that cover entire walls. He teaches rebellion like it’s a science. Uses pop culture to teach civil rights. Wears sneakers and button-ups. Empowers his students so much they start protests without him. Somehow the most grounded adult in the building.

🧁 Stephanie Brown – Health, Sex Ed, and Cheer Coach

Unfiltered, compassionate chaos. Teaches anatomy with a whiteboard and a vendetta. Will scream “USE A CONDOM” across a football field if she has to. Brings snacks. Once hosted a “Period Party” to de-stigmatize menstruation. Has a massive cheering squad with no tryouts. Everyone gets a glitter baton. Even Bruce.

🧠 Barbara Gordon – Guidance Counselor & Tech Integration

Her office is a haven. Smells like lavender and has two couches and three backup charging stations. She tracks every student’s grades, sleep schedule, and emotional regulation through apps she coded herself. Gives therapy through sarcasm, spreadsheets, and hugs. Knew you were having a panic attack before you did.

🛑 Bonus: Gotham Parents Association

Lois Lane is head of the PTA. Clark Kent bakes for bake sales and accidentally melts the oven. Oliver Queen funds half the school and keeps asking if they’ll name the gym after him. Harley Quinn teaches an optional Psych elective once a semester. It’s weirdly good.

[aeth-eris]

★ book a reading ★ ★ masterlist 1 ★ ★ masterlist 2 ★

★ aquarius new moon | 1/29 | the collective ★

the aquarius new moon isn’t here to play nice. this energy is about shaking up the status quo and pushing the collective to think beyond traditional systems. globally, we’re seeing conversations around technology, governance, and community building take center stage. whether it’s discussions about AI regulation, grassroots movements for climate action, or the push for decentralized economies, this moon is amplifying the need for radical innovation and collaboration.

★ aquarius is all about progress, and the new moon is asking, “what’s your role in shaping the future?” we’re seeing countries debating policies on renewable energy, protests demanding corporate accountability, and an ongoing global dialogue about bridging the gap between economic inequality and technological advancements. this energy demands collective action, not passive hope.

★ aquarius energy can feel detached, and with the rapid pace of global events, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or disconnected. burnout is real as the pressure to “fix everything” mounts. people might overthink global issues to the point of inaction, forgetting that small, local efforts also matter.

 ★ mercury conjunct pluto in aquarius: deep dives & accountability ★

this aspect is dragging skeletons out of closets on a collective scale. whistleblowers, investigative journalism, and public demand for transparency are at an all-time high. the truth is surfacing, and it’s making waves in politics, corporations, and social systems.

★ headlines are dominated by revelations of corruption, mismanagement, and systemic failure. governments are being forced to reckon with public dissatisfaction, whether it’s over healthcare policies, economic inequality, or environmental negligence. globally, movements for justice are gaining traction, and accountability is becoming non-negotiable.

★ this transit can lead to obsessive thinking and paranoia. conspiracy theories might gain traction, and the line between fact and fiction could blur. the collective needs to practice discernment and avoid sensationalist rabbit holes.

 ★ venus conjunct neptune in pisces: compassion meets disillusionment ★

with humanitarian crises escalating—ranging from climate disasters to the global refugee situation—this transit highlights the collective’s deep desire to help but also reveals the limitations of idealism.

★ empathy is at an all-time high, with people rallying to support those in need. relief efforts for climate-impacted regions and global calls for mental health reform reflect this compassionate energy. art, music, and storytelling are thriving, acting as outlets for processing collective grief and hope.

★ neptune’s influence can lead to escapism. some may turn a blind eye to crises, overwhelmed by their scale, while others might romanticize solutions without considering practical steps. idealistic movements need grounding to create lasting change.

 ★ mars retrograde in cancer: emotional recalibration ★

mars retrograde in cancer is hitting home—literally. with housing crises, inflation, and strained family dynamics, the collective is being forced to confront its relationship with security and stability.

★ expect heightened focus on housing reform and cost-of-living debates. family structures are also under scrutiny, with many reevaluating traditional roles and creating new dynamics of support. on an emotional level, people are prioritizing self-care and mental health, recognizing that rest is essential for resilience.

★ passive-aggressive behaviors and unresolved tensions are surfacing. political gridlock over economic relief measures could exacerbate frustrations, leading to protests or emotional burnout on both personal and collective levels.

 ★ uranus and saturn: rebuilding foundations ★

uranus in taurus and saturn in pisces are playing the long game, reshaping how we live, work, and interact with the planet. these planets are clashing with traditional institutions that resist change, creating friction but also opening pathways for innovation.

★ sustainable farming practices, renewable energy, and shifts in labor markets are key areas of focus. discussions about universal basic income and fair wages are gaining momentum as people demand equitable systems that prioritize well-being over exploitation.

★ resistance from traditional industries and governments may slow progress. tensions between rapid innovation and long-term stability could lead to economic uncertainty, with stock markets reflecting the push-and-pull of these forces.

 ★ what this means for the collective moving forward ★

★ the mercury-pluto conjunction signals a collective hunger for honesty and justice. expect more revelations about corruption and inequality, with public pressure forcing systemic reform. separating truth from sensationalism will remain a critical challenge.

★ venus and neptune are pushing the collective to lead with compassion. grassroots movements will shine, but there’s a need to balance hope with practical action to avoid burnout and disillusionment.

★ mars retrograde is forcing us to reconsider what emotional and physical security look like in a rapidly changing world. housing reform, mental health initiatives, and support for low-income communities will take center stage.

★ uranus and saturn remind us that progress doesn’t have to abandon tradition. expect debates over how to modernize without losing cultural roots or foundational structures.

 ★ collective prediction: the next few weeks ★

the collective is entering a period of profound recalibration. political systems will face increasing pressure to reform as public trust erodes. climate discussions will dominate global summits, with bold initiatives being proposed but met with skepticism about their feasibility. economic instability may spike as industries navigate the push for sustainability versus profit.

creativity and community will act as anchors during this turbulent time. grassroots movements, mutual aid efforts, and artistic expression will provide solace and inspiration. the collective is being called to dream boldly but also to ground those dreams in practical steps.

key takeaway: this is a time for resilience and intentional action. the cosmos is asking us to hold leaders accountable, nurture our communities, and embrace change without fear. while the challenges are great, the potential for transformation is even greater.

★ book a reading ★ ★ masterlist 1 ★ ★ masterlist 2 ★

[americanredragger]

Fight fire with Water, not more Fire

Gene Roddenberry once claimed that "the most powerful words in the future will not be 'I love you', but rather 'how can I help?'".

I ask that you consider that, and what it means, for just a moment, before continuing on.

Regular people are becoming upset at Trump's leadership and policies, and Trump voters are among them in surprising numbers.

I've spent a very long time hating Trump voters. The hatred was genuine, I think. But it wasn't accomplishing anything for me. Mark Twain wisely wrote that "Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured." and I have been feeling that in myself. A low burn in my blood. Raised blood pressure when I think about Trump Voters and all that they voted twice for. But whatever I feel or think about what Conservative ideology, discourse, and policy has become in the United States, I realize I have to let that shit go when I interact with the people. My anger towards them is damaging me more than it stands a chance of changing their minds. Whatever Brave New World we as progressives and leftists want to build, we HAVE to acknowledge that we will HAVE to share it with people we don't agree with, like, or even despise.

The Left cannot, MUST NOT, be a Social Club instead of a political movement -- a Political Movement is a dirty, impure thing, made up of coalitions of people who don't agree on everything but share a vision of the future for their country and derive the ability to enact change based on that coalition. Sometimes its a broad vision, sometimes its specific. But in a Political Movement, if the people involved balk at working with people who aren't perfect carbon copies of themselves in thought, policy, and belief, the movement swiftly fragments into much smaller, much less effective factions, and loses all its power to enact change. This is how a political movement dies. A Social Club, by contrast, exists entirely by telling people who can and can't be a member. Social clubs thrive on exclusivity. And of late, the American Left has increasingly been a social club as we've allowed ourselves to become addicted to that sweet sweet drip of Self-Righteous Anger and Cynicism.

I don’t hide the fact that I’m a leftist, and I’ve got little patience for conservative ideology—especially the Trumpian flavor that's so in demand these days. In my experience, populist conservatism isn’t just wrong; it’s fucking evil. It’s intellectually and morally bankrupt, corrupt, and utterly indefensible. I don't expect those views of mine to ever change based on the course I have lived. I was a part of that ideology myself when I was younger, and the most venomous, hateful things I have ever said left my mouth during that period, and they did so with terrifying regularity. I won't derail my speech here by providing an itemized list, but know that it was bad. Like, "full-throated support for the worst sort of Eugenics" bad.

I'm glad to have left all that behind me. I genuinely believe that I have found a better, more moral, and more compassionate home among the Socialists, Communists, and other assorted leftists.

And yet

AND YET

Jesus tap-dancing Christ, leftists can be some of the most insufferable, self-righteous pricks on the planet.

Here’s a dirty little secret no one likes to admit: a whole lot of leftists fucking love to bully people. We just make sure to wrap it up in a nice, smug veneer of moral superiority so we get to feel good about it. Scratch the surface on four out of ten social justice warriors, and you’ll find an old-school, mean-spirited bully who’s just thrilled to have a righteous excuse to be a bastard. We love that searing high of self-righteous anger. I'll admit, I've been an addict myself several times. It is a hell of a drug.

In this, leftists fail spectacularly.

Which brings us to a particular brand of leftist activism, where the knee-jerk response to any accusation of wrongdoing is to demand a full confession and immediate “accountability.” And what does accountability mean in these spaces? Public self-immolation, groveling repentance, and total ostracization.

This kind of shit isn’t exclusive to the left—look at what happened to the Dixie Chicks. Conservatives are just as addicted to cancel culture as anyone else. But where it gets really fucked up is when this isn’t just about persuasion or public shaming—it’s about raw, unfiltered enforcement.

It’s one thing to say, "I don’t like what the Dixie Chicks said, so I won’t buy their albums." It’s even fine to say, "I think what they said was bullshit, and I encourage others to stop supporting them too."

But that’s not what happened, is it?

Radio station managers who played their songs were harassed and stalked. One in Texas was doxxed, and his family threatened with violence. Venues that hosted their concerts got bomb threats from angry Republicans.

I use the Dixie Chicks as an example to make the point that this isn’t a leftist problem—it’s a human problem. But in my lived experience, leftists pull this shit more often, more reflexively, and on a broader scale than conservatives do, though thankfully we haven't produced our own Joe McCarthy yet, though he is exactly the result of the sort of puritanical thinking that has by and large seized the American Left in the 21st century.

Tim Minchin has a wonderful quote:

If the intention of progressives—which I assume it is—is progress forward into a future of more empathy and understanding for more people, it cannot be that the primary mechanism by which we’re going to make that progress is the suppression of empathy and understanding for anyone who doesn’t align with our beliefs. It cannot be that unmitigated expression of furious outrage will somehow alchemize into a future of peace and love.

That’s the curse of righteous anger. You’re so certain you’re right, and you’re so certain that even questioning whether or not you’re right is a mortal sin, that you pick up the tools of the abuser in your Holy Crusade against abusers.

Audrey Lorde put it succinctly:

For the master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house. They may allow us temporarily to beat him at his own game, but they will never enable us to bring about genuine change.

Leftists are way too comfortable using the very tools of abuse—coercive control, social isolation, bullying, and even threats of violence—to try and dismantle oppression and abuse. It’d almost be darkly funny if it weren’t so fucking tragic—and if it wasn’t actively costing us our fucking democracy.

How many people have we driven to the Trump Train because they were mostly with us but weren't pure enough for our views at the time? I'll let Daniel Sloss say it best:

That's why I don't like being left wing a lot of the time, in all honesty, because we're the emotional ones. I just fucking hate my teammates all the time! I do wish I was right wing, right? …I mean, not that fucking right wing, but, you know, just the normal right wing. Looks so easy, right? Because the right wing don't really care how right wing you are. They're just happy you joined in! ‘Do you love Trump?’ ‘Yeah I love Trump!’ ‘Do ya hate abortion?’ ‘Yeah, hate abortion.’ ‘Do ya hate the gays?’ ‘Oh, not really.’ ‘Ah, you’ll learn.’ That’s it! You’re still part of the team, here’s your hat! Who gives a shit? If you are not as left-wing as the left-wing person you are talking to? You are the enemy, man. They sit there being like ‘Are you anti Trump?’ ‘Yeah, I'm anti Trump.’ ‘Are you pro choice?’ ‘Yeah, pro choice.’ ‘Are you pro LGBTQ?’ ‘Yeah, I'm pro LGBTQ.’ ‘Are you anti racist?’ ‘Yeah I’m anti racist.’ ‘Are you a vegan?’ ‘...No?’ ‘Then why don’t you go join the rest of the FUCKING NAZIS?!’ It is exhausting!

The Left needs to embody hope. Hope for revolutionary change, hope for a better way of doing things, and hope for a better shared tomorrow. Not just a better tomorrow for billionaires, or the well connected, but all of us together. We all get one world and we have to share it. Remember that left wing goverments have tried the whole "exclude anyone we don't like" thing as well and those were some of the worst autocratic governments in history. Nazism and Fascism DO have left wing counterparts. Several, in fact. We call them "Maoism", "Stalinism", the "Khmer Rouge", "Hoxhaism", and more, and they're JUST as bad. Excluding designated underclasses of people is how regimes like that get started, and so, despite our distaste, we cannot make Trump voters a designated underclass now, or even in a hypothetical future where we "win", because that hypothetical future roots itself in how we conduct ourselves today.

I am NOT asking you to be civil to the government or its actors. They are the abusers, the agents of oppression, and all of America's historic sins embodied in one government. They are to be opposed by every means available. But recognize that they are the abusers in this relationship, and those who voted for them have been abused no less than we have been. They are equally victims. They have been manipulated and conditioned to be comfortable with this abuse, but some are starting to wake up like I did.

The best example I can think of is Harley Quinn when she was with the Joker: she thought she loved him, thought he loved her, and enthusiastically supported some of his most heinous crimes as an accessory, but she was his greatest victim. And with time and supportive environments away from him, she has made great strides in her recovery.

I am asking you to have patience and care for those victims. Remember Morpheus from the Matrix?

The Matrix is a system, Neo. That system is our enemy. But when you're inside, you look around, what do you see? Businessmen, teachers, lawyers, carpenters. The very minds of the people we are trying to save. But until we do, these people are still a part of that system and that makes them our enemy. You have to understand, most of these people are not ready to be unplugged. And many of them are so inured, so hopelessly dependent on the system, that they will fight to protect it.

Many don't recognize the nature of the system of abuse they are fighting to protect. Some do, of course. Some know exactly what they're fighting for and they believe in the cruelty so much that they'll never be convinced otherwise; those people will probably never come up for air. But for everyone else, everyone who's part of the system because that's what they were raised to be, or because they genuinely care about the economy, or a host of other practical concerns, they're getting ready to be unplugged. We have to meet them as Morpheus met Neo, willing to accept them, and ready to guide them through a world they thought they knew.

I'm not asking you to suddenly invite disenchanted or disappointed Trump voters to your DemSoc rallies or whatever. That's obviously too much too fast, and you'd just be sending said disaffected Trump voter back into the hateful toxic arms of their abuser, because better the devil they know and voted for.

What I AM asking you to do is have some fucking Human Compassion for those who are beginning to realize that they've been had and used. Things like selfishness, authoritarian beliefs, and racism can definitely be harsh moral failings, but from experience I can say with certainty that they are most often the result of cultural and environmental conditioning, not intrinsic. They can typically be unlearned through time, patience, and good examples in a supportive environment, as I had when I started to question the system I was a part of a decade ago.

These people, who are beginning to realize that they regret being a part of Trump's Machine, need to be treated like we treat people who are just starting to realize that they are in an abusive domestic relationship, because that Venn Diagram is basically a circle.

We may condemn what they chose to vote for in our own private time, but no soul was ever saved by telling them that they deserve death and hell for how they've chosen to live. Redemption doesn't come from condemnation, it comes from real support and real help. And while people still live and breathe, redemption is still possible. Condemn what you wish in your own alone time, but when people need help, step up and fucking help. It may not always be the smart thing, but it's always the right thing.

Regretful Trump Voters may not be the majority of his base, but there are enough of them that just turning them off him and his system would make real tangible impacts right when we need those the most.

Show compassion and love to them when you talk to them. Don't say "I told you so", it won't help, it will just reinforce the image we have already cultivated for ourselves as a bunch of self-righteous pricks. They need to run through this whole thought process themselves. But we can support them while they do. We can show them that they have safe spaces away from their abuser. If they need help getting food, point them to the same community initiatives we point everybody else to. If they need shelter because their landlord realized now was the time to act with impunity, point them to the same shelters we point everyone else to. We help them exactly the same way that we help everyone else. Why? Because human dignity is a thing. Human rights are a thing. And we cannot dismantle the house of abuse with the tools of abuse. Maybe not ALL of them will really learn that the Left isn't the evil boogeyman the MAGA propaganda machine claims, but I'm willing to gamble that enough of them will.

It used to be said that "The left and the right would argue all day, but they'd still have dinner with each other".

Yes. The Republicans (especially guys like Mitch McConnell and Newt Gingrich) were the ones that broke that era. The blame is on them. But the blame is on ALL OF US, left and right, for proliferating that toxic, broken era as far as we have. While only the Republicans can mend what they broke, we on the left have a unique opportunity to finally convince their voters to TRY to fix it.

America cannot continue as it is. We will perish as a nation if we try. But what we had before in the Obama and Biden years wasn't sustainable either, we were just dying slower. The only solution is revolutionary change to a status quo where we can all stand to live with each other, eat with each other, and support each other, and while I'm not so wise as to claim I have a precise roadmap that will get us there, I do know for a fact that exclusion and sustained anger and outrage will never get us there no matter how many times we try.

A.R Moxon said that

Historians have a word for Germans who joined the Nazi party, not because they hated Jews, but out of a hope for restored patriotism, or a sense of economic anxiety, or a hope to preserve their religious values, or dislike of their opponents, or raw political opportunism, or convenience, or ignorance, or greed. That word is "Nazi." Nobody cares about their motives anymore. They joined what they joined. They lent their support and their moral approval. And, in so doing, they bound themselves to everything that came after. Who cares any more what particular knot they used in the binding?

And to an extent, he's right. But I've realized we HAVE to care. It matters very much what knot was used in the binding of abuse. After all, some knots can be untied, but some are so tight they cannot be undone. That matters a LOT.

If someone is starting to realize that they've been had because they voted over a promise of lower food prices and now those prices are only going up, that matters a lot. And what we must do on the left is help them bear that burden.

There will be a time for accountability, but even Nuremburg didn't try the everyday population of Germany as accessories to the crimes of the Nazis. First off, how could you? And second, they'd suffered enough consequences. Most DID regret what they had supported once they had access to the facts the regime had denied them and they were confronted with the real world consequences of that system. The rest, however unrepentantly Nazi, faded into the background and largely ceased to make trouble for their neighbors (except for those Paperclipped by the USA and Soviet Union into high ranking positions of influence, but that's another blog entry). Remember that these tyrannical authoritarian movements appeal to people first and foremost because they offer simple solutions to complex problems. "If we just get rid of the undesirables straining the system, there will be more jobs because the untermensch won't be taking all the jobs/food prices will come down because the untermensch isn't competing for our food supply", etc. And when you run out of untermensch, those problems remain, because authoritarianism doesn't solve problems. It can only abuse the many to the benefit of the few. And the abused many includes its supporters, and most of them, enough of them to make a difference, will not be comfortable with that.

When a child burns their hands on the stove, we help them run the injury under cold water, apply some aloe, and help them bandage the wound. It does not matter how many times we told them the stove was hot and would burn them. They had to learn it for themselves. Telling them "I told you so" accomplishes nothing. The best thing to do is help them care for their injuries now that they're burned and help them learn to avoid it in the future.

We on the left call ourselves "Progressives", and we've too often fallen short of what that label promises. It's time to measure back up. We can't just advocate for a better system and fight the current rotten one. We need to be there for ALL the people the system fails.

It's time to embrace Roddenberry's vision and ask "How can we help?"

[coochiequeens]

If someone is offended a T shirt that states biological facts they shouldn't be working in health care to begin with.

By Amy Hamm April 25, 2024

A disabled Pennsylvanian woman is speaking out after Planned Parenthood Keystone dismissed her from medical treatment over what they allege are “anti-trans and transphobic” views. The woman, who uses the pseudonym Jane Lane, had been receiving healthcare at the Pennsylvania clinic for over a decade.

Lane shared a letter she says she received from Trish Tashjian, the Chief Operating Officer of Planned Parenthood Keystone on April 11.

“To ensure the highest level of patient care, I want to inform you that Planned Parenthood Keystone will no longer be available to serve you as your healthcare provider, effective 4/11/2024,” Tashjian wrote.

“The dismissal from services is due to repeated offensive conversations and symbols that contradict our commitment to creating an inclusive and compassionate environment for both staff and patients. Numerous complaints from staff members have been received, and a recent complaint from a patient regarding your anti-trans and transphobic rhetoric and symbols has been brought to our attention. Resources below are recommendations for choosing a new healthcare provider. We will be available to see you in case of medical emergencies until 5/10/2024. We will transfer your medical records to your new healthcare provider upon receipt of a signed authorization to do so.”

The letter was initially shared on X by @TTExulansic, who also included photos of the shirts Lane had occasionally worn to her appointments. Among the shirts were those with slogans “Make Women Female Again”; “Woman: Adult Human Female”; and “100% Natural Woman, Female Original.”

But Lane says she witnessed a Planned Parenthood staff member with yellow and purple hair wearing similarly politicized t-shirts and jewelry, including a “smash the gender binary” pin and “they/them” pronoun earrings.

Lane has revealed that Planned Parenthood Keytstone cancelled an upcoming medical appointment and barred her from booking further appointments online. She also alleged that she received zero warning, that no attempt was made to accommodate her beliefs prior to her termination, and that no official Planned Parenthood policy documents were provided or explained to her. 

Lane suffers from several health diagnoses, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and had been accessing the clinic for birth control injections for the past decade.

In an email with Reduxx, Lane described how she had conversations about “men in women’s prisons, sports, and locker rooms” while she was at the clinic, but added that she hadn’t intended to offend anyone. She said that she even apologized to staff for sharing “gross information” after talking about genital surgeries performed on transgender identified men and women on a single occasion.

She denied being transphobic, adding that her concerns about gender ideology had to do with the safeguarding of women and children.

“I am absolutely terrified of men in women’s spaces, the erosion of women’s rights, and the abuse of children that is all being done under the name of trans,” said Lane.

Lane is now seeking legal advice. She said she is thankful to have been able to find alternate healthcare after being fired as a patient from Planned Parenthood Keystone. 

According to their website, “The mission of Planned Parenthood Keystone is to provide and promote access to the essential reproductive health care services and comprehensive sexuality education people need to live healthy lives and build strong communities.” There are no policies about inclusion or patient conduct on the site. 

Planned Parenthood Keystone has not responded to a request for comment at the time of publication.

[techtow]

Embracing Trans Rights: A Simple Guide to Understanding and Supporting Inclusivity

Introduction:

In recent years, conversations around trans rights have gained momentum, advocating for equal treatment and inclusivity for transgender individuals. Understanding and supporting trans rights is crucial for fostering a society that values diversity and respects the rights of all its members. In this article, we'll explore the basics of trans rights, why they matter, and how we can contribute to a more inclusive world.

Defining Trans Rights:

Trans rights refer to the fundamental human rights and freedoms that should be accorded to transgender individuals. These rights encompass various aspects of life, including legal recognition of gender identity, protection against discrimination, access to healthcare, and the right to live authentically without fear of prejudice.

Why Trans Rights Matter:

Transgender individuals, like everyone else, deserve to live their lives with dignity and respect. Trans rights are essential for creating an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and express their identity without facing discrimination. Advocating for trans rights is a step towards dismantling harmful stereotypes and fostering a more compassionate and understanding community.

Key Aspects of Trans Rights:

Legal Recognition: Transgender individuals should have the right to legal recognition of their gender identity. This includes the ability to change their gender marker on identification documents, ensuring that official records align with their affirmed gender.

Anti-Discrimination Protections: Trans people should be protected from discrimination in various aspects of life, including employment, education, healthcare, and public services. A society that values trans rights actively works to eliminate prejudice and bias.

Access to Healthcare: Quality healthcare should be accessible to everyone, including transgender individuals. This includes gender-affirming care, mental health support, and other healthcare services that cater to the unique needs of the transgender community.

Safe Public Spaces: Trans individuals deserve to feel safe in public spaces. Advocating for trans rights involves promoting policies and attitudes that ensure inclusive and safe environments for everyone, regardless of gender identity.

Supporting Trans Rights:

Supporting trans rights is a collective effort that begins with education and understanding. Here are a few simple ways to contribute:

Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about transgender experiences, challenges, and the importance of trans rights. Understanding fosters empathy and helps dispel myths and misconceptions.

Be an Ally: Stand up against transphobia when you encounter it. Being an ally means supporting and advocating for the rights of transgender individuals, even if you are not personally affected.

Use Inclusive Language: Be mindful of the language you use and strive to be inclusive. Respecting people's chosen names and pronouns contributes to creating a more welcoming environment.

Support Inclusive Policies: Advocate for policies that protect trans rights in your community, workplace, and beyond. Support organizations working towards inclusivity and equality.

Conclusion:

In embracing trans rights, we contribute to building a world where everyone is valued, respected, and free to live authentically. By understanding the basics and actively supporting the rights of transgender individuals, we take a meaningful step towards creating a society that celebrates diversity and ensures equal rights for all.

[egharcourt]

List of current gofundmes of Palestinians in Gaza that need your help!

My inbox has received quite a lot of gofundme requests recently so I've decided to compile them into a list:

Tarneem Sami (@tarnem-1)

Tarneem's message:

My name is Tarneem Sami, and I live in the Shuja’iyya neighborhood of Gaza 🇵🇸 with my three children. I lost my husband, Ahmed, while he was trying to get supplies for us amidst the relentless war. We live in constant fear, facing a fierce assault and severe shortages of food and medicine as the cost of living continues to soar.

I need your help to save my children from hunger and disease. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in our lives. If you cannot donate, please share my message to reach those who can help us.

Thank you for your support and generosity 🇵🇸.

Khaled Smeer (@amirashawikh)

Khaled's message:

Hi everyone, my name is Khaled Smeer. I am the manager of a large mall in Gaza before the war, and I am also an English translator. I live in the northern part of Gaza, and I created this campaign after my home was destroyed. Now, in northern Gaza, we are starving. We have nothing—no clothes, no food. Please, if you can help by sharing this or donating, I would be extremely grateful. I am trying to evacuate from Gaza when the border crossing opens. We need 5,000 USD for one person to leave. Thank you for reading my story. Thanks to everyone who does anything for Palestine. ♥️

Aboud Al-Qudra (@aboodalqedra13)

Aboud's message:

My account was banned by tumblr policy and I created a new account and my account is very weak

I have about 10 accounts suspended because Israeli groups have cancelled my campaign. Please donate and help me complete my campaign.

‎‏I ask this with shame: Please donate a small amount that may save my father's life, he needs daily medication worth 55€ and will undergo surgery worth 250€💔, Please don't ignore my message and don't hesitate to help me 🍉

‎‏ Please support me I am facing this alone🙏

🫶🏻💝 I world be very grateful

✅verified by: @gaza-evacuation-funds

Mohammed Yaser (@mohammedyasers)

note: they just need 600€ more!!

Mohammed's message:

To all Palestine supporters 🫂🇵🇸🌧

We need less than 600€ to reach our short term goal of 29.75k€l‼️

Your donations are important to us and we appreciate them no matter what🙏

We need you more than ever😭

Please help me reach our goal as soon as possible 🙏

🇵🇸🇵🇸🇵🇸

Hamdi Ali (@abuyasin156)

Hamdi's message:

Hi lm hamdi l am from Gaza.l am a father for 4 children . our first goal is to reach 1,000€ please donate!! . We are still suffering from the effects of war and the loss of everything, This amount is not just a number, but a real opportunity to rebuild our lives and Help me complete my children's education and put a smile back on my children Thanks 🙏🏻

Mahmoud Jehad (@mahmodmja)

Mahmoud's message:

I'm Mahmoud Jihad from Gaza. My family and I have lost everything—our home, my university, all of it. Now, we find ourselves living in a flimsy tent after losing everything. I was studying Information Technology and supporting my family, but now we are left with nothing. 😔

We are enduring unimaginable destruction and desperately need your help to survive. 😭 Even a small donation can make a huge difference. Every single contribution is a spark of hope in this dark time. ✨

Our campaign has been verified by: @beesandwatermelons ✅ #190 and @gazavetters ✅ #63.

You can make a difference by supporting us through this GoFundMe link: https://gofund.me/463cbf01

From the depths of our hearts, thank you. Let's rebuild our lives together. 🙏❤️

Thank you so much for your generosity and support!

Your donations will directly help us in rebuilding our lives. Thank you again for your kindness and generosity! 🌹

[la-pou-belle]

So I'm in a local email group which is intended for sharing ceasefire events in the area. Some folks shared news of Aaron Bushnell's death, and described him as a "true hero" -

which prompted a climate activist and policy guy I know, Dan, to say: "Killing yourself is not heroic. If he wanted to do something brave to make the world better, there are many ways to do that without killing anyone. There are a lot of people in despair in the world, and they don't need this kind of encouragement to murder themselves. [...] I think it’s wrong for people to promote and publicize such an action. We need people alive and working to make peace. Every death is a loss. [...] I refuse to believe that nothing Aaron could have made of his life would have been better than what he made by ending it. Believing the opposite, that all the people he might have loved, or clothed or fed or taught, or made to smile, are insignificant compared to impact of death in flames, seems really disrespectful to those who loved him."

This led to two other folks responding, telling him he's in no place to criticize this action; to think twice before saying this in an email group; asking "Dan, you must be in the wrong group, then?"; Doubling down on describing Aaron as brave, "having the guts to make the ultimate sacrifice", etc; and complained that Dan was hard-hearted, rather than compassionate.

I've met Dan before and I don't think policing his tone or questioning his values are good responses. Self-immolation is an extreme act of protest and it's divisive, for fair reason. When I mentioned climate activism, that's because I know Dan from these fields - and it's entirely possible Dan has lost comrades, friends, or even loved ones to suicide. In regards to self-immolation in the U.S., I can think of Wynn Bruce and David Buckel off the top of my head who have taken this act to protest climate inaction. But climate scientists commit suicide in other ways at an alarming and well documented rate. Frankly, we don't know what Dan's relationship to this topic is and I think it's valid for him to show concern, even anger, when someone's suicide is depicted as the best/ultimate sacrifice in a public, activist space.

I suspect all of us in activist circles know an activist - even if they've never explicitly said so - who struggles with depression and privately wishes to end their own suffering. This is difficult work for all of us. I didn't want to police anyone's tone in that thread, more just encourage folks to lay off of Dan, but I will say that the Society of Authors has guidelines on how to discuss suicide/self harm in ways to specifically avoid encouraging these actions in others (https://www.samaritans.org/about-samaritans/media-guidelines/guidance-depictions-suicide-and-self-harm-literature/). Young people, bereaved people, and folks struggling with mental health (all demographics who I know are on this email thread) are statistically more likely to respond to prompts from media depicting suicide.

I fully expect there to be a string of similar self-immolations considering the publicity Aaron Bushnell's death has received, available videos of it, descriptions of this act as "heroic" and him as a martyr, and the available details on his method. If I'm being honest, I'm personally worried for some high schoolers I know who have expressed they no longer can function in school and are gripped with hopelessness at how they can effect change. I'll do what I can to offer them support.

I respect Aaron Bushnell's choice and I am going to continue to push for change. I hope to honor his memory. But I will also never say that self immolation was the best use of his, or anyone's, life. If I'm being selfish, I would prefer folks like Aaron to continue building community, educating their personal circles, and "make up" for their participation in the military with good works - but it's not my decision and it shouldn't be my decision.

Anyways, I'm ranting about it here because I think it's important for us to have space to express opinions like these without being pushed out of community or publically dog-piled. In my ideal world, Aaron's death and motives are accurately covered by the media, but details and descriptions of his method are left out of it (as per the writing guidelines, details on method - especially novel methods - increase the likelihood of mimicking the method.)

[lucieistrying]

How I see certain Tardwifes values fitting into a left-wing lifestyle.

First of all:

I clearly do not endorse the Tradwives movement. I believe it's an unsuitable way of life for me and could be dangerous, particularly in terms of relying solely on a husband for financial stability, which leaves one vulnerable.

In this post, I want to explain how I see the positive aspects of this lifestyle fitting into leftist ideas, not conservative ones.

Firstly, the emphasis on homemaking in traditional wife values can be reframed within a leftist framework as a commitment to self-sufficiency and sustainability. Tradwives often prioritize skills such as cooking from scratch, gardening, and sewing, which align with leftist principles of reducing reliance on consumerism and promoting local, sustainable practices. By reclaiming these domestic skills, individuals can lessen their environmental impact and contribute to building resilient communities.

Secondly, the focus on family in their values can be reinterpreted as a dedication to caregiving and support networks within leftist communities. Instead of reinforcing traditional gender roles, this emphasis on family can be expanded to include chosen families, support systems for marginalized individuals, and collective caregiving arrangements. By valuing relationships and mutual aid, leftists can foster inclusive communities that prioritize care and well-being for all members.

Additionally, the commitment to community can be embraced within a leftist framework as a dedication to grassroots organizing and collective action. Tradwives often participate in community-building activities such as volunteering, organizing events, and providing support to neighbors. By harnessing these community-oriented values, leftists can work towards social justice goals such as fighting poverty, advocating for affordable housing, and challenging systems of oppression.

Moreover, the principles of simplicity and frugality inherent in tradwifes values can align with leftist ideals of anti-consumerism and economic equality. By rejecting materialism and embracing minimalism, leftists can challenge capitalist notions of success and prioritize the redistribution of resources towards those in need. This can involve practicing ethical consumption, supporting local cooperatives, and advocating for policies that promote economic justice.

In conclusion, while traditional wife values may initially appear conservative, they can be reinterpreted and integrated into a leftist lifestyle to promote equality, sustainability, and social justice. By reclaiming domestic skills, fostering caregiving networks, engaging in community organizing, and embracing simplicity, leftist Tradwives can contribute to building a more equitable and compassionate society for all.

[worldwatcher3072]

Building Bridges:

A Pragmatic Approach to Progressive Socialism

In today's highly polarized political landscape, promoting progressive socialism may seem like an uphill battle. However, it is possible to advocate for progressive values without being pigeonholed as a "bleeding heart liberal." By focusing on shared goals, practical solutions, and inclusive language, we can bridge divides and foster constructive dialogue that brings us closer to a more equitable society for all.

Emphasizing Common Goals

At the heart of progressive socialism lies a vision of a fairer, more just society. Rather than emphasizing ideological differences, let us concentrate on shared goals. From economic fairness to accessible healthcare and quality education, these aspirations resonate with people from various political backgrounds. By highlighting our common desire for a better future, we can create a space for meaningful discussions that transcend partisan lines.

Solutions for Real-World Challenges

Progressive socialism is not just a theoretical construct; it offers practical solutions to real-world problems. Let us move beyond abstract ideologies and delve into tangible policies that address pressing issues. From raising the minimum wage to advocating for affordable housing and comprehensive social safety nets, these policies can empower individuals and uplift communities. By presenting concrete solutions, we can inspire hope and action.

Stories of Success

Around the world, nations have successfully implemented progressive socialist policies that have positively impacted their citizens. From universal healthcare in European countries to robust social programs in Scandinavia, we have inspiring success stories to share. These examples demonstrate that progressive socialism can lead to prosperity, societal well-being, and greater equality.

Embracing Shared Values

Progressive socialism aligns with deeply held values such as compassion, solidarity, and fairness. Let us emphasize how these principles are at the core of our vision for a more inclusive society. By framing our message around shared values, we can find common ground and foster understanding with individuals who might have different political affiliations.

Addressing Concerns

Acknowledging concerns and criticisms is essential to building trust and credibility. Let us engage in respectful conversations and provide evidence-backed responses to apprehensions about progressive socialism. By addressing these concerns head-on, we can demonstrate that our ideology is grounded in practicality and thoughtful consideration.

Collaborative Efforts

Building a better future requires collective action. By partnering with diverse groups, including those with differing political beliefs, we show that progressive socialism is not an isolated ideology but an inclusive movement. Collaboration allows us to tap into the unique perspectives and expertise of various individuals, fostering a sense of unity in our pursuit of common goals.

Promoting progressive socialism requires us to be pragmatic, compassionate, and open-minded. By focusing on shared aspirations, practical solutions, and inclusive language, we can transcend political divisions and bring people together. Let us build bridges of understanding and work collaboratively to create a society that values economic fairness, social justice, and equal opportunities for all. Together, we can forge a path towards a brighter and more equitable future.

[aquietwhyme]

This is entirely true. No matter where you are on the political spectrum, from the most heartless, vile, bigoted fascist to the most compassionate, leftist pacifist, there is one thing that can be almost universally agreed upon: the response to 9/11 was wasteful and disastrous.

It killed millions, crippled tens of millions, immiserated hundreds of millions, absolutely demolished the US's (unearned) post-coldwar global standing, failed to secure long-term resources, failed to secure long-term security goals, failed to keep the US military peer-adversary-ready, and made life worse for pretty much everybody, except for the few oligarchs and robber barons that made out like, well, bandits.

$8 trillion was blown, accomplishing nothing but misery for everybody involved; enough to build a high speed rail network to outshine China's, to implement universal healthcare even in an expensive way, and to offer universal higher education for all US citizens at no cost to the student.

All sacrificed in the name of vengeance against people that didn't even harm us, people who presented zero threat, for the gain of a few dozen people who were already obscenely wealthy, and in pursuit of fascist policy goals that weren't even accomplished.

So yeah, when people compare October 7th to 9/11 in a way that attempts to justify the response, they're really just taking the mask off and showing how terrible, and how stupid they are.

Using the US response to 9/11 as an ethical standard for anything at all is absurd. “It’s like their 9/11!” Oh you mean it’s their opportunity to spend trillions of dollars to kill more than a million people and make the world irrevocably worse? Well how could I ever object to that

[jazzlrsposts]

Reconciliation Services: Building Bridges Toward Healing and Unity

In a world marked by divisions—whether racial, political, religious, or personal—reconciliation services are emerging as powerful tools to heal wounds, restore relationships, and foster unity. These services offer structured, compassionate processes that help individuals and communities move beyond conflict, pain, and estrangement toward understanding, forgiveness, and peace.

What Are Reconciliation Services?

Reconciliation services encompass a wide range of initiatives, from community dialogue programs and restorative justice circles to faith-based counseling and trauma-informed mediation. Their primary goal is to facilitate healing by acknowledging harm, encouraging accountability, and rebuilding trust.

Unlike traditional conflict resolution methods that often focus on legal outcomes or compromise, reconciliation services emphasize truth-telling, empathy, and transformation. The process is deeply human—and often spiritual—aiming to mend what has been broken at both the interpersonal and collective levels.

Why Reconciliation Matters

Conflict is inevitable, but unresolved conflict leads to division and long-lasting damage. Reconciliation matters because it:

Restores relationships – Whether between individuals, families, or groups, reconciliation rebuilds bonds that are essential for social cohesion.

Promotes justice with compassion – It invites accountability without vengeance, encouraging growth rather than punishment.

Heals trauma – Many reconciliation models are trauma-informed, recognizing the deep emotional impact of harm and creating space for authentic healing.

Fosters unity – In fractured societies, reconciliation becomes a foundation for collaboration, progress, and peace.

Real-World Examples of Reconciliation in Action

Truth and Reconciliation Commissions – Countries like South Africa and Canada have implemented national reconciliation efforts to address systemic injustices and historical trauma, especially against Indigenous and marginalized communities.

Community-Based Restorative Justice – Programs in schools, neighborhoods, and prisons bring together victims and offenders to talk openly, fostering accountability and offering a path forward.

Faith-Based Counseling Services – Many religious organizations provide reconciliation services rooted in values of forgiveness, compassion, and redemption, helping people navigate complex emotional and spiritual conflicts.

The Reconciliation Process

While each service may differ, most follow a similar framework:

Acknowledgement of harm – Recognizing the truth of what occurred is the first step toward healing.

Expression of remorse or pain – This often includes apologies, storytelling, and shared grief.

Forgiveness and accountability – Not a shortcut or obligation, but a deeply personal and voluntary act that can release both parties from bitterness.

Commitment to change – Reconciliation isn’t just about the past; it's a commitment to a healthier future through policy changes, behavior shifts, or communal agreements.

Challenges on the Road to Unity

Reconciliation is not easy. It requires courage, vulnerability, and patience. Some wounds may feel too deep, or trust too broken. But even partial reconciliation can plant seeds of peace and understanding. The journey is often non-linear, and setbacks are part of the process.

How You Can Engage in Reconciliation

Listen actively – Seek to understand perspectives different from your own.

Reflect on your own biases – Internal reconciliation is just as vital as external.

Participate in local or organizational reconciliation initiatives – Look for programs in your community, school, or workplace.

Support justice-oriented policies – Systemic change often paves the way for genuine reconciliation.

Final Thoughts

At its heart, reconciliation is an act of hope. It says: we believe that healing is possible, even when history weighs heavily on our shoulders. In choosing to engage in reconciliation services, we choose to be bridge-builders in a world that desperately needs more connection and compassion.

Whether you’re an individual seeking peace in a personal relationship or part of a community reckoning with a painful past, know this: reconciliation doesn’t erase the past—it honors it, learns from it, and walks forward together.

[globalindianpublication]

Dr. Monica Bharel: From Kolkata’s Streets to Harvard’s Boardroom

In a defining moment for the Global Indian community, Dr. Monica Bharel, an Indian-American physician and trailblazer in public health, has been appointed Vice Chair of the Harvard University Board of Overseers Executive Committee for 2025–2026. The role places her at the forefront of decision-making at one of the world’s most influential academic institutions—during a time of both challenge and change.

An Unforgettable Encounter That Sparked a Mission:

Dr. Bharel’s journey is shaped by a formative experience in Kolkata, where as a young visitor, she locked eyes with a homeless man on the street—his quiet suffering left a lasting imprint. That single moment became the foundation of a lifelong mission: to bring justice, equity, and care to those often left behind. It is this sense of purpose that has guided every step of her professional life.

A Leader at the Crossroads of Public Health and Innovation:

With a medical degree from Boston University and a Master’s in Public Health from Harvard, Dr. Bharel blends clinical expertise with visionary policy-making. As Massachusetts Commissioner of Public Health (2015–2021), she led bold efforts to combat the opioid crisis and manage the COVID-19 pandemic. She also pioneered data-led public health initiatives, including the acclaimed Public Health Data Warehouse, which became a model for informed, evidence-based policy.

In her current role as Global Clinical Lead at Google Health, she continues to break new ground—applying technology and data to improve public health systems on a global scale. Her work reflects a commitment to compassionate innovation, blending human experience with cutting-edge tools to create real-world impact.

Harvard Leadership at a Critical Juncture:

Harvard is facing significant headwinds—from legal disputes over visa policies affecting over a quarter of its international students, to looming financial strains caused by federal funding freezes. Dr. Bharel’s leadership arrives at a pivotal moment, offering stability and vision. Her track record of managing crisis with empathy and clarity makes her a valuable voice in shaping Harvard’s future. University President Alan Garber has lauded her as someone who “combines compassion with evidence-based solutions to keep people healthy throughout the region and across the country.”

A Voice for the Global Indian Generation:

Dr. Bharel’s rise is part of a larger story—one that reflects the growing influence of Indian-origin professionals in global leadership roles. Her career speaks to the core values of the diaspora: a deep respect for education, a drive to serve, and the ability to navigate multiple worlds with humility and excellence. She represents not just personal achievement, but a shared aspiration: to use knowledge and heritage to build a better future.

A Symbol of Change, Led by Compassion:

Dr. Monica Bharel’s appointment to Harvard’s senior leadership is more than a title—it’s a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. From a meaningful moment in Kolkata to shaping the future of one of the world’s top universities, her story is a reminder of how compassion, vision, and resilience can change lives—and institutions. Find more Global Indian stories

[teenytalesco]

📖 Why Storytelling Matters for Kids

Did you know a simple story can help grow your child’s brain? 🧠✨ Storytelling isn’t just fun — it’s a powerful tool to boost your child’s imagination, vocabulary, and emotional growth. 💡 As parents, teachers, and tutors, stories are your secret weapon to make learning stick — and you can do it anytime, anywhere!

That’s exactly why I created TeenyTalesCo — fun, easy-access digital storybooks to make screen time meaningful for little learners. 🎉

📚 Research-Backed Studies That Highlight the Benefits of Storytelling for Children:

✅ Harvard University — Brain Building Through Storytelling Harvard researchers emphasize that storytelling and conversations with children support language development and social skills. Engaging young minds through stories helps build communication, comprehension, and connection. Source: Harvard Graduate School of Education - The Brain-Changing Power of Conversation

✅ American Academy of Pediatrics — The Power of Reading Aloud The AAP recommends shared reading from infancy, as it strengthens brain development, builds early language skills, and fosters parent-child bonding — all essential for long-term learning success. Source: AAP Policy Statement on Literacy Promotion

✅ The Literacy Trust (UK) — Language & Emotional Growth Through Stories Studies from the Literacy Trust show that reading aloud and sharing stories not only improve vocabulary but also support emotional development, helping children express feelings and understand others. Source: National Literacy Trust - Reading Aloud and Talking

✅ Stanford University — Creativity & Problem Solving Through Imaginative Stories Research from Stanford highlights that imaginative storytelling and play boost children's creative thinking, enhance problem-solving abilities, and encourage flexible, innovative thinking. Source: Stanford Medicine - How Creativity Evolves in Childhood

✅ Child Mind Institute — Storytelling Builds Empathy and Focus According to the Child Mind Institute, storytelling strengthens attention span, nurtures empathy, and supports emotional regulation, making it a simple yet powerful tool for raising compassionate, focused kids. Source: Child Mind Institute - The Ways of Empathy

Love stories, kids, and learning? Follow @TeenyTalesCo for quick story ideas & easy learning tips that spark your child's growth! 🌱📖

[captain-kit-adventuress]

My point, which doesn't actually take critical thinking to suss out, is that there are always objections for every candidate, some of them grave and in a time not skirting total catastrophe, intolerable. But falsely putting someone like Joe Biden or Kamala Harris on the same ideological footing as Donald Trump (or any rank and file Republican, really), is disingenous at best, and outright misinformation at worst.

Critical thinking without logic is useless (and in fact, is not actually critical thinking). It is an illogical leap to say that because I supported voting for Joe Biden I support genocide, and not merely that I have no immediate power to make it stop even with an election in play. It is an illogical leap to say the same about why I think people should vote for Kamala Harris. It is an illogical leap to say that I support Kamala Harris for optics reasons because you don't support her. It is an illogical leap to say that I have never asked my government for better, or that I don't want it. It is an illogical leap to say that because I will vote for a candidate, I support every single thing they have ever done, don't have my own criticisms of it, and don't see the bigger picture that not voting for them will likely make the horrifying dumpster fire of an opponent win.

Do not treat your leaps as logic or truth, because all you've really done is assumed who I am and what I must look like and be, without ever considering that I might also exist as a member of any of those groups that you mentioned, or that I also might benefit from more progressive and compassionate policies than currently exist.

You see that subtext because you want to see it. I am a stranger, and you have absolutely no idea of what my political beliefs are outside of the fact that I want people to vote for Kamala Harris so that a very different monster doesn't win, with the backing of a Congress full of rich white supremacists (read: more monsters) who will enact any horrific policy they can dream up. None of that means I am doing anything other than maintenance voting, which is a concept a depressing amount of people don't understand. Maintenance voting is not the same thing as ideological support; it means I don't want to lose the political, diplomatic, and social progress we have clawed from the hands of those who want nothing better than to take it from us. I don't want to have to start over or worse.

I'm glad that a lot of people of voting age want a candidate who supports socialist principles, who wants to enact universal healthcare and education reform, who wants opportunity for all regardless of sexual orientation or ancestry, who genuinely wants America to be a good place for all to live and has an effective, actionable plan to do so. But there are a lot of people on the left, who also vote, that it would scare the pants off to have a candidate like that. I hate that more than any words of mine can express, and I hate that every single election, presidential or otherwise, they hold progressives hostage or risk losing to candidates who are actively trying to destroy the opportunity for everything I do believe in. I would love nothing more than to throw caution to the wind, put up my middle fingers to them, and elect a progressive candidate anyway. But that is not how voting works in America. If you divide the liberal vote, the left loses and the right wins. End of. It's all math, nothing more, and to win means we must often build coalitions with people we would otherwise loathe. I also know all of those vulnerable populations that you mentioned, the Palestinians included, don't have the luxury of running a wonderfully progressive candidate as an experiment at this time. This is what yearly state and local elections are for, to test the waters for a larger national movement. There is a good chance that at least a Democratic candidate like Harris could be reasoned with and convinced to force a ceasefire, among many other progressive goals. There is no chance of that, 0%, with the GOP in power.

It sucks beyond all belief that we cannot demand these changes now, but the time to suddenly switch candidates is not usually right before an election. It sows chaos and may divide the vote, and that will only make progress harder; things are hard enough for most people in the world today, average Americans included, we don't need to be adding unnecessary obstacles. And if the people who are actually spouting fascist principles win, we won't get that opportunity for the same progress within my or your lifetime, because we'll be crawling back from the Stone Age, politically speaking, and I am well aware we've not progressed nearly as much as a lot of the centre left wants to think we have in terms of civil rights, inclusion, respect for BIPOC, etc.

Ignoring the actual text of what I wrote to focus on subtext that isn't there is an embarrassing argument. All I asked for was unity around a candidate who will at least not make things worse and so that Trump and his cronies don't win and doom us all.

If we can't win, we can't demand better for next time because our opponents will literally take that right away from us. That goes for every election, not just the presidential general every four years. Infighting hurts us, not our opponents.

But first, we have to win, and Kamala Harris represents our best chance for that whether we like it or not. So, yes, I implore you, vote for Kamala Harris now so that we can vote for better later. Change never happens fast enough for the people who need it most desperately, but it doesn't happen at all if we can't get a government even marginally on our side into a place of power.

At the end of the day, I am allowed to be angry that it feels like our political process is being hijacked on all sides by people who don't care about the far-reaching consequences of their actions, and the progressive left doesn't get special treatment that way for being the progressive left.

Ok, everyone, you got what you wanted, and Joe Biden stepped out of the race. So we're all going to vote for Kamala Harris because she's not Joe Biden, she's definitely not old, and we know she can carry this burden because she's smart and articulate and NOT OLD.

You're going to vote for Kamala Harris, right?

You're not going to find more excuses, right? You're not going to talk about how you think she's a cop or not accomplished enough, or not any one of a hundred other things you pull out of thin air because, what, some mythical perfect clean-handed socialist hasn't appeared?

YOU'VE BEEN HEARD. NOW DO YOUR BIT AND VOTE FOR KAMALA HARRIS.