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Rio Baile Funk, ph. Vincent Rosenblatt

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Final GIP Reflection

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Palestine, Dr. Sayeed, and Public Health in the Face of Genocide

Palestinians survey Al Shifa Hospital destruction following Israel's withdrawal, April 1, 2024. Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters

Last month, Israel’s withdrawal from al-Shifa Hospital prompted the sharing of images of destruction and death at the Gaza medical center in the wake of a two-week-long Israeli military siege. Palestinian doctor and public health researcher Bahzad al Akhras writes for Aljazeera that “grounds were littered with dead bodies,” and “buildings were burned and reduced to empty shells.” As the historic Palestinian hub for medical science – from research, to conferences, resources, technology, and great minds – this destruction exemplifies the apocalyptic world Palestinians are living in today. 

CNN reported in January that at least 20 of the 22 hospitals in northern Gaza had been damaged or destroyed within the first 60 days after October 7, and even by December 21, WHO claimed that Northern Gaza had no functioning hospitals and patients were “waiting to die.” WHO also reported in March that Israel has conducted over 400 attacks on healthcare systems and personnel, killing at least 500 healthcare workers and detaining many more according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. The BBC reported Israeli Palestinian healthcare workers being “blindfolded, detained, forced to strip and repeatedly beaten by Israeli troops after a raid at their hospital.” The International Rescue Committee has expressed concerned regarding reports of mass graves found at Nasser and Al-Shifa Hospitals following Israeli military withdrawal. 

As we discussed with public health expert Dr. Sadaath Sayeed, systems of public health in a given country are integrated into its economic and political stability. Dr, Sayeed specifically looks at climate change, but his analysis of countries in the global south, and those who have been exploited economically, politically, or otherwise. An even minimally functional healthcare system is necessary for a population to survive. Based on this, these clear attacks on Palestinian healthcare are a clear sign of genocide. As we’ve discussed in global scholars, the Geneva Convention defines genocide as:

Genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such: 

a. Killing members of the group

b. Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group

c. Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part

d. Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group

e. Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.

There is no doubt that beyond simply killing Palestinians – Israel has killed over 35 THOUSAND, more than 5% of Gaza’s population – an attack on medical systems is an attack on “conditions of life calculated to bring about … physical destruction.” Additionally, pregnant women are increasingly disabled from accessing food, water, medical care, and sanitary environments, leading to an intense spike in stillbirths and newborn complications, labor-related illness and death, and malnutrition, which is evidence of an assault on “births within the group.” In contrast, Israeli hospitals are taking advantage of wartime funding to increase a focus on innovation with Israeli tech startups, reflective of how, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Israel had some of the earliest distribution of vaccinations. 

Palestines lack of health care is actively contributing to its extreme and complete destruction. It is a sign that anyone like myself who hopes to head into the healthcare realm must question the idea of medical progress and innovation, and must consider the weaponization of healthcare access that can bolster power while killing entire populations.

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Novel Natural Disasters Under a Changing Climate

A large billboard falls onto a gas station due to an extreme storm in Mumbai, India. Prashant Waydande/Reuters

Related to our discussions of climate change and the global south, recent natural disasters across the globe in recent days have highlighted the devastating impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, while countries like the U.S. continue to put out exorbant emissions rates.

In Mumbai, India, heavy rains and gusty winds led to the collapse of a massive billboard, resulting in the deaths of at least four people and injuring 61 others. The incident underscored the city's susceptibility to rain-related accidents during the monsoon season, a phenomenon exacerbated by climate change.

Meanwhile, in Indonesia's Sumatra island, monsoon rains triggered flash floods and cold lava mudslides from Mount Marapi, claiming the lives of at least 41 people and leaving several others missing. The disaster serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictable and deadly consequences of extreme weather events in volcanic regions. The volcanic activity, exacerbated by heavy rains, unleashed torrents of cold lava and mud, engulfing villages and displacing thousands of residents. The region's vulnerability to such disasters underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness measures and sustainable land management practices.

In Afghanistan, flash flooding ravaged northern provinces, killing over 300 people and displacing thousands more. The humanitarian emergency compounds the country's existing challenges, including recent earthquakes and previous flooding, underscoring the interconnectedness of climate-related disasters and their compounding effects on vulnerable populations. The devastation wrought by the floods has left communities grappling with loss and displacement, further exacerbating the country's humanitarian crisis. Urgent international assistance is needed to support relief efforts and help affected communities rebuild their lives.

A horse stands on a rooftop in Brazil's flooded Rio Grande do Sul region. TV Globo

In southern Brazil, relentless rainstorms have caused more flooding, displacing over 1.9 million people and claiming at least 113 lives. The region, already grappling with the aftermath of other floods, faces threats of further disruption as meteorologists predict more heavy rain. The record rainfall, exacerbated by climate change and the El Niño weather phenomenon, has overwhelmed infrastructure and left communities reeling. As the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events continue to rise, concerted efforts are needed to address the root causes of climate change and build resilience in vulnerable communities.

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Hosting Mr. Justin Worland

May 2 GIP Event

On May 2, fellow Global Scholar Natty Karafilis-Spensely and I hosted this years final in-person GIP guest Event. We were fortunate to invite Mr. Justin Worland, a distinguished climate change journalist of unparalleled caliber. As the senior climate correspondent at TIME Magazine and, perhaps even more importantly, former editor of the Poly Paw Print, Mr. Worland's writing offers fresh perspectives on the climate crisis, connecting the dots between environmental shifts and their impact on policy, business, and society, and emphasizing over all else the urgent need for action. Notably, Mr. Worland's coverage includes his  2019 Person of the Year piece featuring Greta Thunberg, (one of TIME’s most read articles of all time!) and his thought-provoking May 2021 TIME cover story, "Climate is Everything."

Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Worlandd was honored with Covering Climate Now's inaugural Climate Journalist of the Year award in 2022. Throughout all of his writing, Mr. Worland empowers us to advocate for a sustainable future, reminding us of our collective responsibility to safeguard the planet. Worland also consistently addresses the fact that climate permeates all other realms of life, and encourages everyone, no matter age or occupation or anything else, become a “climate person.” As opposed to being a climate activist, a climate person as Worland defines it understands how climate change intersects with their given area of expertise, and understands how they, as an individual, can make a difference.

Recently, Worland visited areas of the Pacific Islands most impacted by flooding as a result climate change, and mentioned the life-altering affect it had on his work. 

I had the privilege of conducting the Q & A with Mr. Worland, and was absolutely fascinated by his well-worded answers. Interviewing him was an immense pleasure and I thank everyone who enabled the event (Ms. Diedrich, Mr. Caragher, Nathaniel, etc.) and everyone who came out to listen. Hope to see Mr. Worland again!

Q&A

Pre-Event Vlog!

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Agriturismo and The Question of Sustainability & Travel

Agriturismo in Tuscany - Creative Commons by Michela Simoncini

Dr. Anthony Arend, at the end of our last GIP event, mentioned that the choice to learn a new language, visit a new place, and understand a new culture, is the starting point for having global interactions and understandings. Many of our other recent GIP events have centered around global sustainability questions, and this had me considering where the two ideas interact. Interacting outside of our local communities has a footprint – whether from an airplane ride or an email (the carbon footprint of an email with no attachment is up to 10 grams). Can these two facts be reconciled? In my meditation, I remembered answering an AP Italian FRQ last year on 'agriturismo'. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the essence of the Italian countryside, particularly in the picturesque region of Tuscany, an agriturismo stay offers an unparalleled green opportunity. These rural guesthouses, nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes, provide a glimpse into the production processes of small-scale rural life.

The term 'agriturismo' itself suggests an amalgamation of agriculture and tourism, the core ethos of these accommodations. Some among the heights of the Dolomites, and some just a stone's throw away from town centers, these establishments allow travelers to explore the region at a different pace than the hustle and bustle of constant movement and consumption that characterizes traditional tourism, and notably leaves a heavy greenhouse gas footprint.

Accommodations vary from simple and rustic to opulent and luxurious, catering to a diverse range of preferences. Whether it's a quaint farmhouse with basic amenities or a lavish estate boasting swimming pools and riding stables, each offers a unique slice of Tuscan hospitality. Beyond the allure of picturesque landscapes and lodgings, it's the people who truly elevate the agriturismo experience. Hosts like Roberto Bechi, with his charming farmhouse B&B south of Siena, embody the warmth and hospitality synonymous with the region, and present a unique way to encourage dialogue with all sorts of different foreigners. From cozy evenings by the fireside to immersive experiences like truffle hunting and local festivals, guests forge lasting connections with their hosts and fellow travelers. The experience feels almost like a grown-up hostel.

Authentic agriturismi like Agriturismo Cretaiole outside Pienza provide a genuine farm-to-table experience, where guests can partake in activities like wine tasting and pasta making under the guidance of passionate hosts like Isabella and Carlo.

However, not all countryside inns are working farms; distinguishing true agriturismi ensures a genuine agricultural experience. These establishments, often steeped in history and tradition, contribute to the preservation of rural heritage while offering a glimpse into centuries-old farming practices.

Whether it's a rustic farmhouse or a noble estate, accommodations typically include food. Some even offer half-board options, allowing guests to savor home-cooked meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

To fully appreciate the charm of Tuscany's countryside, it's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons when these retreats are in high demand. Whether it's a weeklong sojourn or a brief escape, an agriturismo stay promises an enriching and unforgettable experience, reaffirming the timeless adage that life indeed is beautiful amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany.

In an era marked by growing concerns about the environmental impact of travel, agriturismo presents a sustainable alternative that aligns with responsible tourism practices. By integrating accommodation with agricultural activities, these establishments foster a connection to land while minimizing carbon footprints associated with traditional hospitality. Many agriturismi prioritize locally sourced produce, reducing reliance on imported goods and supporting nearby farmers and artisans, and an emphasis on preserving rural heritage encourages sustainable land management practices, promoting biodiversity and conservation efforts. Guests often have the opportunity to engage in eco-friendly activities such as organic farming, composting, and nature walks, furthering their understanding of environmental stewardship. Ultimately, agriturismo is a shining example of sustainability in global travel, offering travelers not just a place to stay, but a chance to contribute positively to the planet while experiencing the authentic charm of an unfamiliar, rural Italian life.

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My GIP Capstone Experience!

On Friday, March 15, 2024, Nicholas Gomez, Jesse Benitez, Beckett Hutchens, and I presented the final installment of 2024 Global Scholars capstone project. It is with great excitement that I write of our success in running a Junior Model United Nations conference surrounding the topic of Women’s Rights in Tajikistan for more than 80 Polytechnic seventh graders representing countries from Brazil, to Kurdistan, to China. 

Before March 15, we spent two weeks curating and conducting lesson plans for the middle-schoolers Below is a “vlog” capturing the hour from start to finish. Enjoy!

Thank you to all who were involved!

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Kalyanee Mam & The World in Thai Sand

As Singapore dredges sand out from beneath Cambodia’s mangrove forests, an ecosystem, a communal way of life, and one woman’s relationship to her beloved home are faced with the threat of erasure. This 15-minute short movie by the award-winning filmmaker Mam Kalyanee touches upon the beauty of this stunning part of coastal Cambodia, the destructive dredging it suffered from for close to a decade, and the greed and stupidity that lies behind it in the form of Singapore's relentless 'land expansion' program. (Lost World, Mother Nature Cambodia on YouTube)

Last week, amidst our time hosting French high school students from Collegé Saint Martin, the GIP program hosted Ms. Kalyanee Mam to discuss and show her 2018 short film Lost World, which addresses the impact of sand dredging for export sale (often to Singapore) on coastal communities in Thailand – specifically the home of Vy Phalla in a mangrove fishing/sea harvesting community being slowly eaten alive by the sand inustry.

Despite what feels like access to every event happening globally, like many others in the room, I had never previously heard of any event even remotely similar to the dredging of sand in Thailand that Mam spoke to us about for this GIP event. Not only was Lost World a educational, powerful, and visually striking film project to watch, but Mam was also an intimate and animated speaker, encouraging reflection on our relationship with land through her introduction and Q/A. This event was a very engaging way to look at the impacts of climate change and environmental destruction on a micro-scale; the contrast between a mega-industrial, highly commercial, and starkly sanitized center of Singapore and the small cities/ fishing and mangrove communities focused on in this area of Thailand show that when we focus on rapid industrial development for what might seem to be the big picture, this big picture actually frames those in positions of relative power – in this case, cities with wealth and international influence – and leaves out the destruction that is happening to perhaps communities that are marginalized, but unquestionable in their scale and value. 

I was also intrigued to listen to explanations of feelings of powerlessness that come at this time, a feeling which seems to thread together many people from all types of countries. Not only is this how myself and many members of our own community feel, but even many of the sightseers and residents of Singapore either were not aware of the large exploitation of physical land, or noted that they did not know what they could do with that information. While powerlessness is a terrifying feeling, the fact that it binds us this way does give me much hope, as reflected in Mam’s weaving of the many aspects of her globetrotting life. In the spirit of our theme “Ubuntu”, I hope that stories like that of Lost World continue to shed light on systems of oppression and ecological destruction not to bring despair, but rather to inspire unity and revolutionary change across the globe. 

" The beauty of the mangrove forest Rivals the palace gardens. It's a place where pure love grows. The more I gaze, The more I crave to see. A true and rare beauty is revealed to me. The ocean leans forward, Embracing the mangrove forest. Stunning and exquisite – A golden paradise. "

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What's The Big AI Idea?

"Rachel, Jack, and Ashley Too," Black Mirror; In an age of rapid technological advancements, media often expresses the fear of impersonal robot rule. (Netflix)

One year ago, the world was introduced to ChatGPT– the accessibility to such an advanced piece of artificial intelligence, (A.I.) which is known for essentially being able to answer questions and write like a quasi human, has faced resistance and embrace– either way, few can argue that it has been an astonishing advancement in “futurist” technology that is actually accessible to mankind. Machine learning, seen in programs like OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Bard, and Microsoft's Sydney, essentially analyzes vast data sets and generates seemingly human-like language and thought…  However, there is growing worry that the dominant role of machine learning in A.I. may compromise human work in science and ethics – not to mention economic replacement theories – that show a flawed, or at the very least unquestioned, understanding of language and knowledge into our technology, that can often lead to unnecessary fear. 

Through my interests in politics and sociology, I have always been interested in our relationships with technology, especially in its intersections with art and economic/social issues, and with societal fears surrounding the idea of of dystopia. For this AI blog post, I recalled a Noam Chomsky opinion piece for the New York Times that I read many months ago and wanted to revisit having observed a year of everyday AI incorporation.

As he argues, AI’s prowess in specific domains like computer programming is somewhat singular. These machine learning programs fundamentally differ from human reasoning and language use. The human mind operates from raw observation and through labyrinthian modes of processing with efficiency and elegance. In language, this means that children can create complex systems of logic and grammar even in the early stages of language acquisition. Conversely, machine learning can only (as of now) consume information to summarize and restate it, offering little to no analysis or outside connection. 

The distinction lies in the fact that while machine learning excels at description and prediction, it lacks the crucial capacity for causal explanation, much less creativity or any type of analysis that has not already been posed. Though this next part may sound confusing, Chomsky argues that human thought involves not just recognizing what is the case but also exploring what is not the case and what could or could not be the case—an essential component of true intelligence. The article contends that machine learning systems, designed for unlimited learning and memorization, are incapable of discerning the possible from the impossible, leading to superficial and dubious predictions.

In a global context, it is astonishing to reflect on how powerful AI engines can be, and yet being reminded just how far the human brain has advanced beyond them, in any area but restating topics in a short amount of time. As I reflect on my exchange year last year, this illuminates, for one, the absolute marvel of the human brain that can process new languages with irreplicable nuance and style, and second, that raw and constant production for the sake of production does not mean anything, and is not what makes the ideological work of the human species unique– it is the weave of inter-workings in our brains

Furthermore, the article highlights the importance of ethical considerations in A.I. development. The example of Microsoft's Tay chatbot, which exhibited offensive behavior due to exposure to inappropriate training data, underscores the challenges in balancing creativity with moral constraints. The inability of A.I. systems to reason from moral principles results in crude restrictions, sacrificing creativity for meaningless amorality. The article concludes by questioning the popularity of these systems, emphasizing their inherent flaws in moral thinking, pseudo-scientific predictions, and linguistic incompetence, however it also cites the work of Jorge Luis Borges to un-catastrophize the nature of such unprecedented times, foreseeing the potential for tragedy and comedy amid the imminence of revelation.

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Armenia & Genocide

As Global Scholars, we have recently been discussing global instances of genocide and cultural resistance, and how we can involve ourselves with this resistance. While many of our readings have focused on governmental history and international law's categorical definitions of genocide, we have also watched, read, and had rare opportunities to listen to more personal and emotional speakers on the topic, starting with Arn Chorn Pond and more recently with a panelist group of historians and advocates who work specifically in the fields of Armenian studies and human rights.

One panelist, in fact, was an international human rights lawyer, and his passion for governmental tools inspired me to reflect a bit more on how these on-paper definitions, beyond just checklists for lawyers, can interact with the world. As noted in our Brown curriculum reading, the word genocide itself wasn't defined before 1948, which certainly limited perpetrators ability to evade accountability on a global scale when it was gravely needed after the Holocaust. It did not, however, stop atrocities from being committed, which is obvious in the long list of genocides committed since the convention given by Omer Bartov. Many of them I have heard of, but not learned the long and complicated histories of. At the time being, however we are focusing on the Armenian Genocide and its continuation into and through the 21st century, specifically the recent developments in Artsakh– that almost the entire Armenian population of Artsakh was forced to surrender the city and was expelled from the region with violence and instability this September.

This conflict is especially close to home for those of us living in Los Angeles, where the exodus of the past has given LA the largest population of ethnic Armenians outside of Armenia. When looking for an international source, I turned again towards Italy to see how a place that has almost no cultural representation of Armenians might be reporting on the issue.

The personal article I chose, from the Italian “Courier Della Sera” is entitled, Armenia senza pace, la trentina Maino e le voci dei sopravvissuti all'esodo del 1992 (Armenia without peace, the thirty-year-old Maino and the voices of the survivors of the 1992 exodus). 

Author Silvia MC Senette delves into the ongoing crisis faced by Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh amidst the recent conflict, drawing historical parallels to Armenian exodus in 1992 and textbook-genocide in 1915 by interviewing Italian writer Sara Maino, who published a record of her engagements through music and culture. 

Maino reflects on her connection with Armenia, which grew from a chance encounter in 2003. Maino was studying music theory and liturgical song when she met refugees from the 1992 Nagorno-Karabakh exodus who lived in a hotel in her hometown of Trento.

Living with them, listening to their stories, and particularly focusing on one woman named Manushak, Maino's interactions with the refugees spanned two decades, emphasizing the repeating and enduring difficulties faced by the refugees. When Manushak passed away recently, Maino felt that she “had to tell the stories that [she] had experienced first hand.”  

The plight of the Armenians is poignantly captured by the refugees sharing stories that Maino notes always have protagonists of “bombs and pain”, and the harsh realities of war. Stories from the recent developments in the conflict are a tragic reiteration of history. Maino expresses profound concern for the current situation and its relationship to the situation int he Gaza Strip, underlining the resilient and adaptably unified spirit of the refugees. She also relates her broadened horizons to art and cultural learning, noting that “The encounter with a culture different from mine was intertwined with musical research,” which ties in to the themes of art and cultural resistance to elimination and violence that we as global scholars discussed with Arn Chorn Pond and the Armenian Panelists. 

I did a bit more research on art that reflects on the Armenian genocide, and found that there is indeed a community of artists here in Los Angeles. Below is an example; young Armenian artist Arutyun Gozukuchikyan creates murals around Los Angeles expressing the continuation of Armenian trauma through generations. Art as an expressive tool will always hold power to relate people to each other, and heal a population's abilities to explore, create, and learn. I look forward to carrying this theme throughout other global topics.

Artwork by Arutyun Gozukuchikyan (@/ArtViaArt) in Los Angeles, CA

"Armenia without peace, the thirty-year-old Maino and the voices of the survivors of the 1992 exodus" - Corriere Della Sera - Italy

Brown University on Genocide

https://www.choices.edu/video-playlist/?unit=413

Padlet Post from Artsakh Speakers

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American Judaism, Israel, and Emotions in the Face of Global Violence

Declaration of the State of Israel, 1948. (History Today)

Though many discussions of Israel begin with the Holocaust, centuries of Middle Eastern history impact the conflict in ways that must be noted. Before European colonialism, specifically the modern-day Palestine region was a physical and social center for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, all of which began among Middle Eastern people and places. Religious conflict has been present since religion itself, but increased in the past 700 years  with the emergence of global trade and cross-region power grabs. Europeans emerged as global colonial powers in the past few centuries, and the result has been an extension of European power upon every continent. In the emergence of contemporary capitalism, non-European land and people have been minimized to commodities to be traded amongst elite European classes– the Middle-East was especially crucial to Industrializing Europe for its resources, namely natural gas and phosphate.  

Flashing forward to World War II, the Holocaust absolutely decimated the Jewish population, and the communal trauma and healing that would continue for decades was beginning. Met with the stern faces of the European and American superpowers that had not provided sufficient War aid until much too late and were not providing solutions to European anti-semitism, European Jews had, in many ways, nowhere to go. And this is where, for me, European Colonialism and Jewish trauma come together. Instead of fostering areas of Europe as dedicated Jewish spaces for community rebuilding, or making initiative to reintegrate Jews into European society, Britain and the new UN partitioned the historically diverse Palestinian region into two separate Jewish/Muslim ethno-states, sending in European Jews and then leaving them to fight for the land.

This is where I myself as well as other Jewish voices for peace and Colonial liberation draw the line between Jewish heritage and subjugation. It is true that Jews did not have a safe place in any European government following World War II however European and American superpowers neither of which have been political proponents of Jewish life historically have taken complete and utter advantage of Jewish feelings, to send us to kill and die for, at this point, American oil money. 

I will note that I have certainly considered the Zionist perspective to a great extent. I myself have close family in Israel.  Judaism does of course have a connection with the land where it was born in the Palestine region; however I cannot, in good faith, philosophically or politically justify a sovereign ethnostate based on spiritual connection. It is against the principles of global interaction and equality. 

Much of the mainstream media I have consumed recently pits Jews as the enemy of Arab Muslims. This one or the other narrative is harmful, and has made me feel at times alone in my belief that Palestine is not an Arab vs. Jewish issue. But I have learned that I am not alone in my belief. Jewish Voice for Peace, a collection of Rabbis and Jews who oppose the anti-life and anti-humanity forces of violence, have been a strong voice for Palestinian liberation in the United States. In their own words, they are fighting against the erasure of a “Jewish history where our traditions and our communities were not bound up with support for an apartheid government.”

Historical erasure of the history in which Arabs and Europeans; Jews, Muslims, and Christians; men and women; etc, have the ability to live and interact with each other,  is intentional to paint an ‘unavoidable’ partition between Arab and Jewish states. As written in her New York Times op-ed, Palestinian Hala Alyan, notes, “Palestinian slaughter is too often presented ahistorically, untethered to reality: It is not attributed to real steel and missiles, to occupation, to policy. To earn compassion for their dead, Palestinians must first prove their innocence.”

This is the more subtle way that Western forces take advantage of Jewish struggle– through the narrative that this is, inherently, a religious issue. We know, from other analogous instances of Colonialism that in time have become more socially acceptable to oppose, that the partition itself is what makes violence inevitable, and that people have the ability to come together. Apartheid South Africa is a common analogy, but many others also apply. 

Alyan, who wrote in quite impactful prose, holds power in her raw descriptions of  the global struggle Palestineans are facing at the moment. In fact, it reminded me of some of the works we have read from many other authors who have seen their home countries and cities and families destroyed by violent conflict, as well as articles about immigration narratives. Lina Attar’s writing documents the destruction of Syrian communities and the emotional torture that presents for members of that community, especially children. It points out the inefficiency of her own civil war– how this conflict with little philosophical backing has been a constant back and forth of sides gaining and losing land inch by inch; that the focus on these subjective border lines has caused death and destruction that helps nobody. Reyna Grande’s piece about monarch butterflies and the idea that we focus on political issues to such an extent that we emotionally dismiss the life being lost, that we disregard land and sustainable practice out of violent reactionism, as well as Hector Tobar’s piece on the contradictions and complexity in the portrayal of migrants and marginalized people are both more than applicable in emotionally navigating this situation. 

Arn Chorn-Pond's experiences also shed light on the same type of conflicts. He holds great empathy for all those involved, even and especially members of the Khmer Rouge. He constantly drew connections between the horrors of the Cambodian genocide, China’s political problems, and Vietnam. He placed an emphasis on utilizing writing, speaking, and creating art as the greatest tool against continuous violence. 

I encourage my fellow Global Scholars to spend time thinking, and reflecting. In Chorn-Pond's words, we must remain awake and conscious even when these conflicts are so overwhelming and it is so tempting to pick up a phone and turn off our brains. As noted by him as well as Iraq War veteran Mike Prysner of Veterans For Peace, hatred and violence for fellow human beings serve profit and continue our unconscious prayers at the altar of violence.

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Immigration

Societal Attitudes on Immigration: The Impact of Racial Bias

In our so newly globalized landscape, immigration is a complex topic spiritually, philosophically, politically, and otherwise. Within exchanging culture and physical location, and considering globalization’s context of colonialism and the invention of modern racism, immigration is deeply intertwined with societal attitudes around race and ethnicity. 

Considering perspectives from our speaker Ernesto Cisneros, the Latino/Mexican- American experience is unique in many ways. For one, California has a Hispanic/Latinio population larger than any other ethnicity. While a larger presence often feels like it should mean a mirrored distribution of power or education or capital or even stories, these communities are still vastly underrepresented in all fields. This type of “majority-minority” contradiction is difficult to wrap one’s head around when seeing it play out. It can feel very confusing, especially considering the cultural blending and separation that can happen simultaneously. Cisneros talks about how confusing these giant issues can be, especially for children, and the children he sees almost every day as an educator. Conservative narratives about immigration are especially unforgiving. The recent reemergence of Nazi-era “Great Replacement Theory” rhetoric now shapes itself to fit modern-day America, pulling in Mexican immigrants as job-thieves and people who are taking advantage of America’s powerful economy and social benefits without doing the hard work of being a “real” American. This timeless reactionary argument is not only baseless, but also applied hypocritically. Beyond the obvious lack of consideration on what exactly constitutes a “real American” and why that makes them deserving of something, in conflicts that involve other conflict-torn areas, racial bias rears its horns. 

For example, the response to mostly white Ukrainian immigrants is significantly different. The U.S. and E.U. governments, currently very strict and conservative on border policies, enthusiastically accepted Ukrainians and allowed them to skip bureaucratic formalities that others must spend years adhering to. In Poland and Belarus, physical violence that often takes place against refugee and immigrant populations was notably missing for Ukrainians. 

Middle Eastern immigrants also experience unique forms of discrimination and xenophobic rhetoric. Post-9/11, discourse about colonialism’s ravaging effects in Middle-Eastern governments and hugely ruinous U.S. invasions is somewhat overriden by anti-Islam and “terrorism” rhetoric. Many are fleeing from deathly emergencies, but that fact gets dropped when our discussions shift to racial and ethnic arguments.

Lina Sergie Attar, founder of the Karam Foundation, speaks in her New York Times op-ed about the utter destruction of Aleppo, a once-vibrant city where she spent much of her childhood. She ironically mentions how people claim “victories” as gaining more land foot by foot during this conflict, rather than aiding the many starving Syrian people and halting the constant death and destruction. This attitude applies to most situations regardless of race, but when racial bias dehumanizes victims of conflict,

Many of these differences are not simply racial; for example, pro-Ukraine sentiment is also partly an extension of anti-Russian sentiment and politics. Yet it is undeniable, especially considering current events in Israel and Palestine, that pre-existing systems of bias certainly do affect our conception of immigrants and refugees from different backgrounds. I hope that being conscious of this bias can help us limit its impact on how we act as Global Scholars. 

2023 Demographics - Summary Data for State: California, Claritas / Be Well Placer, March 2023

https://www.placerdashboard.org/index.php?module=DemographicData&controller=index&action=index

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Marks the G20 Summit Misses

In the complex international diplomacy world, the G20 summit stands as an annual focal point for leaders from the world's richest economies to discuss any pertinent global issues they feel are relevant. The 2023 G20 summit carried distinct importance, considering the current political landscape marked by violent conflicts, struggling pandemic economies, social change, and the climate crisis. 

This year specifically, Russia and China’s leaders did not attend the summit, a move which exemplifies the global dysfunction and the crumbling of these seemingly civil and effective alliances of the most powerful. Russia and China both, in fact, exemplify this outside of the G20, considering their much-reported human rights abuses that have been committed continuously. 

Olga Khakova, director for European Energy Security at the Atlantic Council, also mentioned fearful and meaningless conversation (rather, lack thereof) around Russia by politicians who were in attendance. Namely, Russia’s limiting of the exchange of energy and food to Eurasia.  

In addition, the G20 summit failed to address global emergencies with the urgency they warrant. Climate change is the primary case; Joseph Webster of the Atlantic council notes that coal-powered energy has gone almost completely unaddressed, despite the fact that it makes up 44% of global emissions. He mentions that the topic “remains too politically sensitive,” and that the summit, similar to the UN COP26 (United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties), barely acknowledged coal only in a vague and nonapplicable statement. Despite constant messages from the scientific community that climate change is truly becoming too late to repair, many leaders continue to fail in making tangible progress against the fossil fuel industry.

Though, not to be misstated, the economic benefits that the attitudes of peace and camaraderie between countries instead of competition and exploitation does economically and politically benefit countries involved. This year, in fact, is the first that the African Union had been given a seat at the table, showing the G20’s growth. However, the lack of initiative for pressing issues is reaping temporary economic benefits for these economically powerful 20 countries in exchange for the complete economic, political, and physical future for the entire globe. 

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SEPTEMBER

THE UNDERAPPRECIATED SIGNIFICANCE OF HYPERPOP IN THE DIGITAL AGE

In the 21st century, increasing corporatization and its effects make the music landscape often impossible to navigate, for artists and consumers alike. One genre, however, has emerged somewhat unseen as a radical and disruptive force– hyperpop. The recent announcement that revolutionary label P.C. Music would be shutting down new music production and only revisiting archival content from here on out, I decided to write a bit about an art phenomena that I believe is more important than it might let on. 

While often written off as musically immature and ultra-niche, hyperpop challenges traditional notions of rhythm, melody, sampling, and genre boundaries with grace– not to mention artistic philosophy, especially in the context of an infinite internet. At its core, it is a product of the uniquely “free” digital age and late-stage capitalism. Hyperpop, short for "hyperactive pop," took inspiration from, for one, 2000s rave and electronic music culture, growing into itself in online forums, SoundCloud uploads, and the alternative DIY aesthetic of the early 2010s.

In the early 2010s, artists like SOPHIE, Arca, and AG Cook (who collaborate(d) regularly) began experimenting with a frenetic, maximalist approach to production. It often features exaggerated, pitch-shifted vocals, glitchy electronic beats, and a disregard for traditional song structures, incorporating elements from genres such as hip-hop, pop, electronic, and experimental noise. These blends reflect the diversity of musical influences and globalized nature of the internet, and usage of platforms like SoundCloud and Band-camp to share music across the world bypass traditional labels and gatekeepers. Not only does their music take full advantage of the internet’s infinite and hyper-accessible reserve of hundreds of years of music, individual samples, electronic tools and instruments, but it’s also a meta reflection on this abundance.

"Hey QT," was an early collaborative project between A.G. Cook, SOPHIE, Harriet Pittard, and performance artist Hayden Dunham, who appeared as BladeRunner-esque singer QT. This track, with its catchy, hyperactive melody and playful, consumerist lyrics, stood as an ironic reflection of the digital age's excesses. "Hey QT" didn't just embrace the internet era; it satirized it with an ironic promotional campaign, including a music video that was an ad for a fake energy drink, that questioned the lines between music, “content”, and commerciality. "Hey QT" became a symbol of subverting expectations and utilizing the irreplaceable digital canvas, all while critiquing the commodification of music and fame that is exaggerated by that very digital realm.  

One of the key drivers of Hyperpop era is the P.C. Music collective, founded by A.G. Cook back in the early days of the genre. P.C. Music's artists have pushed the boundaries of what is considered "pop" music. They provide a more IRL commune for artists who challenge listeners to question what defines authentic music and invite them into a both surreal and hyperreal world of sound.

Hyperpop trancents borders, and reflects the globalization of music, allowing artists from all over the world to exchange and collaborate. This global exchange of ideas has enriched the genre, leading to a vibrant ecosystem of artists who each contribute their own twist to the hyperpop sound, so much so that it now has taken the shape that artistic eras usually do by splitting into different factions that are growing into their own genres. 

Many of us may know the duo 100 Gecs– a slightly more angry and hard-edged hyperpop duo that revolutionized the genre with their surprising and somewhat random main-stream popularity around 2020. As the internet often manifests, 100 Gecs eventually fell from the type of widespread (basic?) social media buzz they held, but have progressed into their prior alternativity– this time with more artistic prowess, and a critically praised name for themselves. While it may seem as though the musicians were simply dropped back where they were before their “15 minutes”, the fact that hyperpop had its moment in the main stream limelight and is now developing beyond itself is significant. Many believe it is the reason for P.C. music’s halt of new production and reflection/remixing on the past decade of its work. Its time has come!

Cook himself has certainly changed. He continues to produce various levels of hyperpop and electronic music– the less intense of which have gradually made their way into the main stream. (Charli XCX; Kim Petras; recently, Beyoncé) 

Hyperpop’s boundary-pushing spirit and innovative production techniques will likely continue to influence mainstream and alternative music alike, pushing the envelope of what is possible within the realm of sound. It serves as a testament to the power of the internet and a thrilling chapter in the evolution of music. 

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Italy's SUPERBONUS 90/110

During the global economic troubles of 2020's COVID-19 pandemic, Italy's federal government introduced the "Ecobonus 110." Also known as the Superbonus, this policy gives takers a tax deduction of 110% for expenses regarding constructive renovations– specifically relating to modernizations in seismic or energy use efficiency. The deduction was quite popular and had many takers. Following the election of Italy's new prime minister Georgia Meloni in October of 2022, however, the Ecobonus 110 became Superbonus 90– for a 90% deduction on such home improvements– and is set to decrease by 5-10% each consecutive year.

Opinions on the matter are divided. During the quarantine period, staying inside revolutionized the way many think of their homes– instead of just a place to sleep or complete miscellaneous tasks, it is a flexible environment that can meet your personal tastes and feel comfortable and taken care of. Based on my own observation, this phenomenon is stronger for Europeans than Americans, given that Europe has a solid contemporary history of condensed and walkable urban communities, and because of this, leaving one's house without a hard reason is much lower-effort and convenient. Home and room decor in my own city of Lecce was, quite frankly, often unstylish and impersonal when compared to the creative leeway many of us in the United States tend to decorate our living spaces. Anyways, for consumers, this deduction opened the door to some of those creative home-improvement opportunities.

Despite issues and a flurry of other new economic policies put in place at the same time, the construction industry that was suffering for most of the 2010s did in fact experience a large boom, and the country's GDP heightened. It is, however, not without cost. Some companies reported that the heightened competition and surging demands amidst supply chain problems meant mounting stress and difficulty with expansion.

In addition, the Italian government reported possible fraud and a cost of €110B. As previously mentioned, the election of a new hyper-conservative Prime Minister, Georgia Meloni, who emphasizes her opposition to social welfare programs (among other things), also triggered fierce opposition to the program, which has been coined an economic "drug" to be weaned off of. While Meloni initially proposed that the law was enacted with "good intentions," recently she has been much harsher, stating, «si è consentita la più grande truffa ai danni dello Stato», or, "The biggest fraud/scheme [ever] was allowed against the state ."

The difference in the American and Italian articles was interesting. The Guardian article I read seemed to contain stronger, more polar language, even simply in the title:

Italy scraps green tax credit scheme as construction sector suffers: Superbonus 110 initiative led to a surge in home renovations but has been blighted by widespread fraud

Comparing it to the Italian article title:

"Superbonus, a scam": What Prime Minister Meloni really said and how the relief will change

We will see how this rollback of the initiative ends up. Understanding the historical pretext of rolling back social welfare programs, the argument can be made that it likely will go poorly, however, the program is not necessarily wholey accessible. The tax credit is more available for those with certain economic status, and in that way, disabling a form of tax evasion is not usually a disastrous step. I am no economist!

SOURCES

Italy

Corriere Della Sera:

«Superbonus, una truffa»: cosa ha detto davvero la premier Meloni e come cambierà lo sgravio // "Superbonus, a scam:" What Minister Meloni actually said and how the [tax] relief will change

Euro

Euractiv:

Italy overturns 'Superbonus' scheme for housing renovation

Germany

N26:

Italy's Superbonus Tax Credit: What's New in 2023

Britain

Financial Times:

Italy weans builers off Superbonus 'drug' after boom

The Guardian:

Italy scraps green tax credit scheme as construction sector suffers

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Bari– Arrival Camp vs Departure Camp

Man oh man did this year fly by. It is now July. I will add more to this post later!

At the beginning of June, I faced, along with the other students in my neck of the woods (Puglia, Basilicata) our final regional camp. Back in October, we had the same event, but for our arrival. In other words, a month after arrival and a month before departure, students and volunteers get together regionally to do workshops and activities based on the process of being an exchange student. Here are some reflections on the reflection

It was quite fascinating to see how much my (our) Italian had improved over the year. I remember how all of our activities and the discussions I had with volunteers were in English, and I would try (and struggle) to express myself in Italian– now I am able to communicate and understand in full Italian. 

The excitement of the first few weeks vs the cynicism of the end looking back was palpable. It may sound a bit emo, but all of us, even those complaining about horrible host families, were bright-eyed at the beginning. By the end, we had come to terms with new realities and difficulties that arose during our year, and many seemed more complex and thoughtful. 

On the flip side, many in the first camp were not excited to be there and missed their homes. Going back to host families after the camp marked saluting your fellow soldiers (other AFS-ers) you only had a few days of getting to know and going back into war. By the end, this feeling of only having a brief moment to get to know people was still around, but only in the sense of the entire year. By the end of the camp, we were saluting each other with the knowledge that for the entire month before we left we would be traveling to see each other in our region a million times. Most were beaten up at the thought of returning home– some way more than others. I was fine, but for many friends the goodbyes reminded me of the end of a summer camp– everyone crying and saying how much they love each other and wont lose contact. I personally am not too much of a cryer.