#and how its related to socioeconomic inequality

[ukrfeminism]

The number of women dying during pregnancy or soon after childbirth has reached its highest level in almost 20 years, according to new data. Experts have described the figures as “very worrying”.

How many women are dying?

Between 2020 and 2022, 293 women in the UK died during pregnancy or within 42 days of the end of their pregnancy. With 21 deaths classified as coincidental, 272 in 2,028,543 pregnancies resulted in a maternal death rate of 13.41 per 100,000.

This is a steep rise from the 8.79 deaths per 100,000 pregnancies in 2017 to 2019, the most recent three-year period with complete data. The death rate has increased to levels not seen since 2003 to 2005.

Where have the figures come from?

The data comes from MBRRACE-UK, which conducts surveillance and investigates the causes of maternal deaths, stillbirths and infant deaths as part of the national Maternal, Newborn and Infant Clinical Outcome Review Programme (MNI-CORP).

MNI-CORP aims to improve patient outcomes and is funded by NHS England, the Welsh government, the health and social care division of the Scottish government, the Northern Ireland Department of Health, and the states of Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man.

Why are so many women dying during or just after childbirth?

The main cause of death was thrombosis and thromboembolism, or blood clots in the veins.

The second most common cause was Covid-19. But even when deaths due to Covid were excluded, the maternal death rate for 2020 to 2022 – 11.54 per 100,000 pregnancies – remained higher than the rate for 2017 to 2019.

Heart disease and deaths related to poor mental health were also common, according to a review of the data by the Guardian.

Why is the mortality rate increasing?

The researchers behind the data project, led by Oxford Population Health’s national perinatal epidemiology unit at the University of Oxford, highlight several issues.

They say maternity systems in the UK are under pressure but also point to pre-pregnancy health and the need to tackle conditions such as obesity, as well as critical actions to work towards more inclusive and personalised care during pregnancy.

Is there any good news?

Not really. The maternal death rate among black women decreased slightly compared with 2019 to 2021, but they remain three times more likely to die compared with white women. Asian women are twice as likely to die during pregnancy or soon after compared with white women.

Are there other factors aside from health?

Absolutely. Women living in the most deprived areas of the UK have a maternal death rate more than twice that of women living in the least deprived areas.

Persisting ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities show the UK must think beyond maternity care to address the “underlying structures” that impact health before, during and after pregnancy, such as housing, education and access to healthy environments, said Dr Nicola Vousden, co-chair of the women’s health specialist interest group for the Faculty of Public Health.

Are deaths during pregnancy only increasing in the UK?

No. Maternal death rates are rising in many countries, yet this alarming trend has not been seriously addressed by governments and healthcare systems worldwide.

Rates have doubled in the US over the last two decades, with deaths highest among black mothers, a study in Journal of the American Medical Association found. Indigenous women had the greatest increase.

It is difficult to compare precise death rates between countries because the data is not uniform. But other countries seeing substantial rises in rates include Venezuela, Cyprus, Greece, Mauritius, Puerto Rico, Belize, and the Dominican Republic.

What can be done to reverse the trend?

Urgent action is needed to bolster the quality of maternal healthcare, ensure it is accessible to all, and repair the damage inflicted by the pandemic on women’s healthcare services more generally.

Clea Harmer, the chief executive of bereavement charity Sands, said improving maternity safety also needs to be at the top of the UK’s agenda.

The government said it was committed to ensuring all women received safe and compassionate care from maternity services, regardless of their ethnicity, location or economic status.

Anneliese Dodds, the shadow women and equalities secretary, said Labour would seek to reverse the “deeply concerning” maternal mortality figures by training thousands more midwives and health visitors and incentivising continuity of care for women during pregnancy.

NHS England said it had made “significant improvements” to maternity services but acknowledged “further action” was needed. It has introduced maternal medical networks and specialist centres to improve the identification of potentially fatal medical conditions in pregnancy.

[justanotherthrowaway1950]

The Problem with Yu Dao and A Potential Solution

On the surface, the resolution of the Yu Dao crisis was nothing but a success, both in the short and long-term. For allowing Yu Dao and the oldest Fire Nation colonies self-determination not only prevented ethnic cleansing and the Hundred Year from restarting, but also led to the creation of the United Republic as well.

A place that not only serves as the dominant economic and cultural hub in the world, but also eventually became a laboratory of democracy as well, being the first place in ATLA’s modern history to elect its leader by way of popular vote.

However, on closer inspection, the resolution of the Yu Dao crisis was not the complete success that the ATLA franchise frames it as, but in fact one of its biggest mistakes due to three, discrete, but interrelated, reasons.

First, the fact that the people pushing for self-determination in Yu Dao were more likely than not representative of the greater population, and that push for self-determination in-universe is seeped in racist, pro-colonist rhetoric. 

Second, the fact that the Yu Dao crisis was solved by “self-determination” sent several wrong messages that also led to severe consequences during Korra’s era.  

Third, the fact that there is no way that the Fire Nation could have paid the Earth Kingdom anywhere near the true value of the oldest colonies, thus retarding the Earth Kingdom’s ability to rebuild after the war, and is partially why the Earth Kingdom is in such a sorry state during Korra’s era.

In regards to the first point, Kori and her family and close friends are not representative of the entire Yu Dao population, being instead a minority of the population in which their proximity to political and/or economic power shielded them from the burnt of the Fire Nation’s tyranny.

And while they have a good point about how the Harmony Restoration Movement would lead to ethnic cleansing by forcing mixing families to choose between leaving their long-time homes and having their families broken apart, they are not the only people whose opinions matter when it comes to the oldest colonies.

This is because, even if The Search and related material gloss over it, Yu Dao, like the rest of the oldest colonies, have a massive Earth Kingdomer population, one that more or less serves an underclass exploited by Fire Nationals.

Yet, despite having ample chances to do so, none of the Gaang or Kori and her allies ever ask such people for what should be done in regards to Yu Dao’s future.

This, even though they would likely have different opinions than Zuko, Kori, and like minded people about how Yu Dao’s future should go after learning about the problems with the Harmony Restoration Movement in its current form.

Likewise, while there are non-Yu Dao Earth Kingdomers who do get to express their opinion on what should happen with the oldest colonies, they never get a chance to express what should happen after being presented with the reality that the Harmony Restoration Movement in its current form would result in ethnic cleansing, not even Kuei, at least not before Aang all but forces Kuei to accept Yu Dao has the “right” to self-determination.

(No, not every group that claims to be a distinct “nation” has a right to self-determination. For if that was the case, groups like white nationalists or Christian nationalists in the United States would have the right to self-determination, and I don’t think anyone but a fringe minority believes that to be true.)

But the fact that self-determination in Yu Dao was mostly decided by a small, unrepresentative portion of the population is made worse by the fact that it is steeped in racist, pro-colonialism rhetoric.

This is because Zuko, after Katara pointed out that there is massive socioeconomic inequality between the Fire Nationals and Earth Kingdomers, argues in part to keep the oldest colonies since they were better off before the Fire Nation colonized them, which is appalling for in- and out-of-universe reasons.

For in-universe, why would the (supposedly) former imperialist who got un-indoctrinated by spending months as a refugee witnessing first hand the Fire Nation’s “greatness,” and got painfully rejected by an Earth Kingdom village he saved because he was part of the family responsible for their suffering, express such sentiments?

Like what happened to the pensive, self-reflective person, one who is aware of his place in history and is hell bent on undoing all the suffering he and his people have wrought upon the world, that Zuko became post-Day of Black Sun?

Meanwhile, out-of-universe, if you were to switch out Zuko's words with some modern places, it would sound like something out of /pol.

For modern racists and/or imperialist apologists justify Western settler colonialism in part by saying that without their “intervention”, the places they colonized would have remained underdeveloped.

Like, is it that hard to see the parallel between your average /pol shitposter saying something like, “Before the West colonized them, the shitskins only had huts and sticks.” and Zuko saying, “Many of the Fire Nation families here immigrated over a hundred years ago, when Yu Dao was just a tiny village at the bottom of a valley.”?

In regards to the second point, the fact that the Yu Dao crisis was solved by “self-determination” sent several wrong messages, both in-universe and out of it, that also led to severe consequences during Korra’s era.

For by having self-determination in the oldest Fire Nation colonies be driven by Fire Nationals and those related to or allied with them without taking into consideration the vast Earth Kingdom underclass, as well the opinion of the rest of the Earth Kingdom, the Fire Nation suffered little to no consequences for starting the Hundred Year War, and in fact essentially won the War.

This is because the Fire Nation is modeled after Imperial Japan, and just like Imperial Japan had reasons for engaging in colonialism and/or imperialism beyond paternalistic notions of spreading their “greatness,” the Fire Nation likely had other, less “benevolent” reasons for waging the Hundred Year War as well.

For imagine you are a part of Fire Lord Sozin’s governing council in the lead up to the Hundred Year War and you are discussing the benefits of waging the Hundred Year War.

Would you tell him that the Fire Nation would be doing the world a great service by spreading its greatness? 

Or would you tell him that the Fire Nation would be able to achieve several economic and military goals vital to the Fire Nation’s continued existence, at least in its current form?

Or more specifically, by engaging in settler colonialism and imperialism, Sozin would be able to: (1) keep the Fire Nation industrializing at a smooth pace by obtaining cheap and/or slave labor, cheap goods, free land, and easier access to fossil fuels; (2) quell growing class tensions that are endemic to industrial capitalism; (3) divert attention from growing calls from the growing middle class to democratize the Fire Nation, as well limit or eliminate the privileges of the nobility; (4) and make sure their economic and military rivals in the Earth Kingdom would never be able to pose a threat to the Fire Nation again.

Now, imagine you are an advisor as part of Fire Lord Izumi’s governing council and you are preparing a report detailing the Fire Nation’s economic and military power at the moment.

What would it say? That the Fire Nation is a defeated nation-state unable or unwilling to flex its muscles and forced by its leadership to continue paying reparations for the foreseeable future?

Or that the Fire Nation is in amazing shape because: (1) the dominant economic, military, and cultural power in the world is a client state of the Fire Nation; (2) thanks in large part to the ill-gotten gains it got from the Hundred Year War, the Fire Nation is now a, or close to becoming, an advanced industrial state; (3) the Earth Federation is highly unlikely to rival the Fire Nation’s economic or military power for the foreseeable future; (4) and as a result of all this, the Royal Family’s, and by proxy the nobility’s, hold on power is secure for the foreseeable future?

So can anyone with a straight face say that the Fire Nation did not win the Hundred Year War?

No, and that is bad because it sends the message that all nation-states have to do to redeem themselves for engaging in settler colonialism and genocide is pay reparations and punish just a handful of leaders, and all is forgiven.

Moreover, it is bad because it sends the message that if you want more land, labor, and resources, just send your citizens to the area you desire and have some of them reproduce with the local population before then demanding self-determination after sufficient time has passed.

Hence, why I think the resolution of the Yu Dao crisis is responsible for the rise of the Earth Empire.

This is because while Kuvira might have been motivated by parental abandonment issues, it doesn’t explain why Earth Empire’s rank and file support her, or why the Earth Empire and those who support its ideology remain an ongoing problem, even after Kurivira publicly repudiates her previous actions and ideology.

But growing up learning about how the United Republic was created does. 

Or more specifically, learning how the Fire Nation managed to avoid any real consequences for waging the Hundred Year War while essentially managing to keep its colonies thanks your ruler, who was put back on the throne in part thanks to the infamous General Iroh, kowtowing to the supposedly now good Fire Lord Zuko and the Avatar, who is supposed to be a neutral arbiter, but seems be especially biased towards the Fire Nation.

Especially once you consider his steadyfast friendship with not only Fire Lord Zuko, but also General Iroh, (Fire) Lady Mai, and Lady Ty Lee as well.

(No, I don’t think the average Earth Kingdomer would care that Mai and Ty Lee were essentially forced to join Azula’s small, elite team.)

(Especially since their “partnership” with Azula ended with Ba Sing Se failing, and especially since they eventually found the strength to stand up to her when their loved ones were in danger, suggesting that they could have stood up to Azula at any point, but didn’t because Earth Kingdomer lives weren’t important enough to them.)

Finally, in regards to the third point, if you look at the where the United Republic is located, combined with the fact that the oldest Fire Nation colonies were home to hundreds, if not millions, of people, the value of the oldest colonies probably would be worth hundreds of billions, if not trillions of dollars, in in real life money today.

Especially once one took into account all the untapped resources such as iron mines and the fact that the area served as the Earth Kingdom’s southeastern waterport.

And even though canon such as the TTRPG says that the Fire Nation paid the Earth Kingdom for the loss of the oldest colonies, unless the Fire Nation was impossibly wealthy, there was no way they could pay the equivalent of several hundred billion, if not trillions of dollars, to the Earth Kingdom.

At least not without inciting a massive rebellion considering how many people and groups tried killing Zuko in the early years after the war.

This, even though the Fire Nation essentially got unpunished for the War, save for having to pay reparations, having its colonists in the newer colonies move back to homeland, and having to give up direct political control of the oldest colonies.

Hence, why it is likely that regardless of whatever the Fire Nation paid the Earth Kingdom, it was nowhere near the true value of the oldest colonies, and why the Earth Kingdom is in terrible shape during Korra’s era, at least partially that is.

For imagine how much easier it would have been for the Earth Kingdom to rebuild and modernize if they didn’t lose billions, if not trillions of dollars, worth of land, resources, and taxpayers and failed to get fair market value back?

“Ok, you make some good points about the resolution of the Yu Dao Crisis wasn’t as cracked up as it seemed to be. But how could Aang, Zuko, and Kuei have come up with a different solution to the Yu Dao crisis, and more generally, the issue of the oldest colonies, without committing ethnic cleansing, or allowing the oldest colonies to remain a part of the Fire Nation?”

By giving Yu Dao back to the Earth Kingdom while at the same time granting the Fire Nationals local control.

Or in other words, in a system akin to China’s old tributary system in which the oldest colonies recognized Kuei as their ruler, paid taxes to Ba Sing Se, and provided troops for the Earth Kingdom Army in exchange for political autonomy.

That way you don't get the issues associated with forcing people to leave their homes, even if they are descendants of colonizers, and you don't have the Fire Nation essentially win the Hundred Year War by having the Fire National-dominated oldest colonies declare independence and become a client state of the Fire Nation.

Moreover, the above solution still results in what would have become the United Republic becoming an economic and cultural powerhouse.

For if the territory was back in Earth Kingdom hands, considering their inability to project real force outside of Ba Sing Se, Kuei and Hou Ting would not have cared that much what happened in the former oldest colonies. Thus, the locals in charge of the oldest colonies would have more or less the same autonomy that the United Republic has in canon. 

And this, in combination with the fact that the oldest colonies would still be located in a highly desirable location with untapped resources and is a place where people from the Four Nations are able to work and live together in harmony, means that the oldest colonies would still become a hub of industry.

In addition, the fact that the Earth Kingdom would be able to get tax revenue from the equivalent of the United Republic, along with having a successful model of governance that isn’t a monarchy in its midst, might not only help the Earth Kingdom develop more than it did in canon, but also prevent the downfall of Hou Ting/rise of Kurvira as well. 

Especially since there won't be decades worth of resentment towards the Avatar and/or the Fire Nation due to Kuei "agreeing" to grant Yu Dao and the other oldest colonies independence.

Furthermore, you avoid having Zuko forget about his experiences and spout racist and pro-imperialist sentiments akin to those said by in real life racists and imperialism apologists to justify letting Fire Nationals and their close friends and family determine the future of the oldest colonies while ignoring the plight of the Earth Kingdomer underclass.

“Ok, maybe what you said makes sense, but if the Earth Kingdom is as pissed about the Fire Nation’s colonialism as you make them out to be, why wouldn't they treat the former Fire National colonialists terribly, even if they are citizens of the Earth Kingdom in your scenario?”

“Like, what is keeping the Earth Kingdom from engaging in state sanctioned murder of the Fire Nation colonists and their families, or expropriating all of their property and wealth, even if they sign agreements promising not to do so?”

Good point, but thankfully, unlike the real world, there exists a figure with the power to ensure that the rights of new Earth Kingdom citizens are protected: the Avatar.

Moreover, beyond the fact that Aang can protect the new Earth Kingdom citizens by himself, Zuko can ensure that the former Fire Nationals are protected by taking measures such as conditioning reparations on making sure the rights of the former Fire Nationals aren’t trampled on.

“Ok, but what about the Fire Nationals pissed about losing absolutely everything they thought they had gained after a hundred years of war? The Fire Nation is not a defeated nation; it only lost due to a coup d’etat led by Zuko. So it seems like letting the Earth Kingdom absorb the oldest colonies, even if the rights of the former Fire Nationals are protected, might be enough to lead to an open rebellion, or at least more resistance to Zuko’s rule.”

The only reason why Zuko didn’t face an outright rebellion in canon, even after Azula escaped with her bending intact, was because everyone knows that the moment Zuko is in trouble, Aang and/or the White Lotus will bail him out.

(In my opinion, if destroying Zuko’s regime and slaughtering his Fire Nation allies and supporters wouldn’t result in Aang and/or the White Lotus hunting her down like a wild animal, Azula would have done so.)

(For if not, why would the TTRPG say that she is trying to unlock the power of dangerous spirits to support her goal of retaking the throne when she could have killed Zuko, Mai, and Ty Lee, for example, several times over?)

So, even if they might complain about it, and more people might try assassinating him, it is not going to lead to any more resistance beyond more assassination attempts.

Especially since there is no other viable candidate for the throne that isn’t insane, de-bended and in jail, or doesn’t share Zuko’s views.

“Ok, but isn't your proposed tributary system just as radical, if not more than, as Aang, Zuko, and Kuei coming up with self-determination in order to resolve the Yu Dao crisis in canon? Like, why would Kuei, an absolute monarch, be ok with any of his subjects not being under his direct command?”

No, because the existence of Omashu, with Bumi being recognized as its king and having wide latitude in regards to governing the city, shows that not only is it viable for the Earth Kingdom to adopt an tributary system in regards to the oldest colonies, but also that it has already does so in practice as well.

Moreover, considering there hasn’t been any material released yet that states Kuei decided to exercise more control over Omashu and/or dethrone Bumi, Kuei would be more than fine with having his subjects having wide political and economic freedom so long as they ultimately pledge their loyalty to him.

“The Earth Kingdom adopting a tributary system in regards to the oldest colonies would make sense, if the Earth Kingdom was an actual functioning state. Because the early post-Hundred Year War Earth Kingdom wasn't close to a single cohesive state with a strong central authority, one that could consolidate the wealth present in the oldest colonies.”

“In fact, if the oldest colonies were returned to the Earth Kingdom, it is likely the quality of life present in those regions would have never reached the levels present in the United Republic considering how corrupt the Earth Kingdom was.” 

“So, even if is a little fucked, it was ultimately for the better that the Earth Kingdom did not get the oldest colonies back.”

You do realize this is exactly the same logic that in real life racists and imperialism apologists use to justify western imperialism and settler colonialism? 

Or the logic used by Western nation-states in the past to deny their colonies the right to control their own affairs within their own lands?

Moreover, one of the main points behind the tributary system is that the oldest colonies continue to have the political and economic freedom that led to the wealth present in the United Republic in Korra’s time without it potentially being jeopardized by the corrupt and bumbling Earth Kingdom state meddling in their affairs.

And besides, whose not to say that the oldest colonies staying with the Earth Kingdom, with its steady middle class, would not have led to Earth Kingdom becoming a single cohesive state with a strong central authority, one in which the problem of corruption was slowly but surely getting eliminated?

So to conclude, the resolution of the Yu Dao crisis did turn out well in the long run, but sent a bad message both in-universe and out of it.

For not only was Sozin proven right that forcibly spreading the Fire Nation’s “greatness” was a good thing, but the canon resolution of the Yu Dao crisis also essentially let the Fire Nation and those allied with them off the hook for waging a century-long war of conquest and genocide.

Moreover, the resolution of the Yu Dao crisis is not only likely one of the main factors behind the sorry state of the Earth Kingdom/Federation in Korra’ era, but also behind Kuivria’s rise as well.

However, the Harmony Restoration’s Movement’s solution to the problem of the oldest colonies is equally bad considering it would have led to ethnic cleansing at best, and the Hundred Year War restarting at worst.

Hence, why I think the Yu Dao crisis should have been resolved by having the Earth Kingdom adopt a tributary system of governance towards the oldest colonies.

A system that keeps the benefits gained from giving the oldest colonies self-determination in canon, avoids the problem of the Fire Nation essentially winning the Hundred Year War, avoids mass violence, and gives the Earth Kingdom a real chance at developing.

Or in other words, a fair and equitable solution that allows for true justice in light of the Fire Nation’s crimes.

[canonicallyanxious]

Some quick and dirty gay chicken thoughts before I go into work:

I am loving the discussion of class issues so far, the nuance of the conversation and Wen's relative privilege (different levels of privilege though, esp with the focus on Heart's family home as a setting this ep), the way this presents a perpetually present undercurrent of conflict and realism that really sets the tone of the show and its themes well, I'm super looking forward to seeing how that thread develops!

Love the relationship developing bw Wen and Li Ming, I think it's so sweet that Li Ming can find someone who can listen to him without judgment and basically act as a calm mentor figure (did cringe when Wen tried to relate to his situation with his experience changing majors but I think you're supposed to, again that undercurrent of socioeconomic inequality is always present in the relationships of these characters) when he has such a contentious relationship with the other adult figures in his life, and you know I'm always a hoe for an older queer mentor/younger queer mentee relationship, even if so far the queerness doesn't explicitly factor into this particular relationship I do very much think that subtext is still there esp with the implications of how out of place Li Ming feels as a queer teenager versus how assured Wen is with his sexuality

As well I like that having this relationship develop gives Jim more reason to trust and like Wen - idk I just think Jim sees how sweet Wen is to his cat and his nephew and the things that are important to his life and how he seems to understand how they're important to Jim and like there's no way he's immune to that u know

Don't have much intelligent to say about Heart and Li Ming's relationship I just think it's very sweet and refreshing to have this relatively uncomplicated young love blooming in the face of all the drama brewing up, and Fourth and Gemini are totally nailing that tone of first love so far! My one nitpick about the storyline is I wish they had subtitles for Heart's signing esp now that Li Ming is sort of able to pick up what he means better now - I know you can kind of sus out meanings through Li Ming's responses but I just think it's a bit of a baffling choice not to make a storyline focusing on deafness more accessible

Jim's tragic backstory of his ex partner cheating on him is a very interesting choice in light of I still have no fuckin clue what is happening with Wen and Alan. I'm scared of this storyline and already have my reservations honestly lol but I will wait and see before passing judgment bc I've been really into the writing of the rest of the show so far (also the actual flashback really had me in my feelings... Uncle Jim you deserve all the happiness in the world.......)

(like it's weird that both Wen's father and close friend seem super nonchalant about him obviously having chemistry with this man when they also know about his relationship with Alan right. It's weird that Wen's dad who he has a close relationship with doesn't seem to know if Wen and Alan still together or not but also had that very foreboding line about needing to be unattached when you come together with a new lover. Whatever the fuck is going on there.)

I will never not find it funny that Jim is really out here like "okay this is strictly sex, purely physical, we won't kiss on the mouth or even learn each other's names and there will be absolutely no strings attached" and then still somehow managed to have the most tender one night stand sex I have ever seen. Like Uncle Jim idk what purely physical no feelings or strings attached sex looks like to you but somehow I have the feeling that reverently caressing your lips over every inch of another man's body while tenderly clasping his hand long into the night isn't it

[naymaasblog]

How racism impacted housing in portland 1940s-present

Leading social change

Blog #1

By: Naymaa Ahmed

A discriminatory practice known as "redlining" first appeared in the US in the early 20th century, and Portland, Oregon, was one of its locations. Based on the racial or cultural makeup of a community, it refers to the systematic denial of financial services including loans, insurance, and investment opportunities. Due to the designation of some regions as "high-risk" or "undesirable" for financing, this practice disproportionately impacted African American communities and restricted their access to housing and other financial resources. locations such as Vanport, Oregon. Determining what is and is not within the purview of this research is essential for a better understanding of the issue. In this case, the research's primary focus would be on the background of redlining in Portland, including its inception, application, and impacted communities. It would also cover the current redlining-related socioeconomic gaps as well as any ongoing initiatives to alleviate these problems. draw attention to the long-term effects of redlining, including the aggravation of racial segregation in the city, wealth inequality, and the continuation of poverty throughout generations. Highlighting the interdependence of these matters can facilitate a more comprehensive comprehension of the extensive consequences of redlining on the impacted neighborhoods and Portland's general socioeconomic structure. As we go on to Redlings, the Federal Housing Administration provided veterans with mortgage loans, enabling millions of families to buy homes. Unfortunately, these loans did not help the black community because the criteria used to determine who would receive home loans were overtly racist, making it hard for people of color to buy a home even in times of prosperity. segregating everyone and assigning each applicant a color based on where their property is located. Albina and downtown Portland are redlined. Where, by coincidence, there are the most Black residents(Gross,2020). Due to all of the unconstitutional bills and decisions that were passed at that time. Today, it has a significant impact on the black community. Resulting in a 32% difference between White and Black Portlanders who own homes. All of this is the outcome of 150 years of redlining, mismanagement, and unabashed prejudice. Starting with the flood that destroyed Vanport as a city. Forcing tens of thousands of people to leave their homes and move into a neighborhood where it was obvious they were not wanted. All of this was the start & result of how racism was built into our housing systems in the 1940s.Redlining in Portland is a problem with roots in social inequality and systematic racism, which is one reason it matters. In addition to being morally reprehensible, discrimination based on race subverts the ideals of justice and equality that our society ought to uphold. Our concern for this issue reflects our recognition of the need to right historical wrongs and build a society that is more just and inclusive. What leads us to believe that Portland is now socially fair if it wasn't before? How can you be certain that these maps and bills aren't concealed somewhere in your city?

Gross, Terry. “A 'Forgotten History' of How the U.S. Government Segregated America.” NPR, NPR, 3 May 2017, https://www.npr.org/2017/05/03/526655831/a-forgotten-history-of-how-the-u-s-government-segregated-america

[nahobinobrunestud]

Being made to read Atlus Shrugged again, I think one of the main reasons why the story, let alone its philosophy is utterly so uncompelling is that it has no grounding in reality. Whenever it tries to talk like a manifesto it sounds utterly melodramatic because the world it has made up is generally the opposite of the actual issues that are faced in reality. To oversimplify it that of inequality.

One can tell that part of the reason that rich right wingers like it so much is because it makes up a world in which they would be oppressed for having lots of money and what they believe to be their meritocratic and intellectual merits that too aren't based in reality with all their wealth being on the backs of exploited labour.

Atlus Shrugged creates a world of ungrounded oppression where things such as the abstract idea of love and acting upon it is limited. One might relate it to homophobia or romeo and juliet or some other thing, but it is rather just love in general, focused entirely on how sad it is that straight people can't get it on beyond for procreation. It is something that rings even more hollow today than it did back then to be fair, but rather than grounding it with any context it is instead made into the abstract in a bizarro or opposite world that would rather make up a reality for you to get mad at than have any grounding of the existing one with existing oppressions that are all the more enraging to anyone who has dealt with or sympathized with an actual struggle in their lives.

The only things that seems even a little grounded in reality is the mention of eugenics and the relagation of the eldery or old as useless members of society, but even then there is hardly if any commentary on capitalism and how it defines humanity and its value based on labour value that can be exploited by capital or any racial or racialized aspects of eugenics. Instead it is the vague idea that all people are oppressed by evil equality and collectivism in what reads like a cartoon world version of what better dead than red types thought the ussr was at the time, an evil cartoon world you'd think even red scare poisoned people would think is at least a bit silly.

Again, you can see why Atlus Shrugged is so popular to right wingers and rich people, and of course they tend to be white men for socioeconomic and social appeal reasons. It imagines a world where you can be oppressed by all these things that actual oppressed people might be oppressed over in actual, real contexts even if you're the very group of people that are oppressing them. You too can be oppressed as a cisheterosexual white man for your love of a cisheterosexual white woman! You're so oppresed for being smart and cool and good at everything and everyone's keeping you down for being rich and smart and cool and good and popular, just like in real life!

It's a fantasy for people to pretend like they're oppressed for things that they're very much not, and might not have ever experienced actual oppression to begin with, and gasses them up in their minds for being so smart and innovative and pats them on the back for being selfish and not caring about others. To do so, it must be as fantastical as possible, as ungrounded by (though not untethered from) the real world as possible. Of course the work was made in a historical, socioeconomic context that can be examined through historical materialism and so on, but Atlus Shrugged would very much wish that it couldn't, perhaps because it would be too collectivist to examine the world and its context and how society is based on real class struggle and not a fictional meritocracy struggle of individuals.

[ggdfd1124]

A Sociological Approach to Examining Religion

Preface :

A common perception of religion is that it is an intensely intimate experience that revolves around spirituality and personal ideas. Sociologists, on the other hand, provide a distinctive viewpoint on religion, viewing it as a social structure that molds and affects many facets of society. This article examines religion from a sociological perspective, looking at its roles, functions, and effects on social norms and inequality.

Fundamentalism in religion is a complicated issue that frequently resists easy answers. It includes ardent adherence to religious teachings, strongly held convictions, and a strong feeling of self and community. In this piece, we explore the psychology of religious fundamentalism and the elements that support its emergence and survival.

Emile, a French sociologist, defines religion.

A fundamental framework for comprehending religion in the context of society was supplied by Durkheim. Durkheim defined religion as a social structure based on the idea of the holy rather than only in terms of supernatural events or divine persons. He stressed the difference between the sacred and the profane, emphasizing the importance of behaviors and ideas that instill a sense of wonder and reverence in a community.

Symbolic Interactionism: Interpreting Symbols in Religion

Understanding the ways in which symbols influence religious practices and beliefs is made easier with the help of symbolic interactionism. Symbols are used by all religions to express meaning and establish a sense of the sacred. Prayer and ceremonial activities are examples of rituals that function as symbolic practices that strengthen commitment and faith. Additionally, religious symbols, such as the Star or the Cross of David, are revered in religious communities and are used as totems to symbolize identification and common beliefs.

The Roles of Religion in Structural Functionalism

From a structural functionalist perspective, religion plays a number of crucial roles in society. Above all, religion promotes social cohesion by bringing people together around common rules, values, and symbols. Religious organizations such as churches frequently act as essential hubs for the community, encouraging relationships and unity among participants. Furthermore, religion uses moral and ethical precepts to influence conduct as a means of societal control. Ultimately, religion gives people a feeling of direction and significance by placing their lives in a larger spiritual framework.

Social Conflict Theory: Analyzing Division and Inequality

Karl Marx and other social conflict theorists see religion through the prism of power relations and disparity. Throughout history, religion has been utilized to support and uphold established social hierarchies, extending legitimacy to the power of the ruling class and bolstering repressive institutions. Religious ideas and practices have frequently been used to maintain racial and gender inequality, pushing marginalized populations into lower social classes.

Applications and Modifications in Practice

Sociological analysis requires an understanding of how religion manifests itself in everyday life. With most Americans identifying as members of one or more religions, religion is a fundamental factor in defining cultural norms and identity in the country. The interconnectedness of religion with other social aspects is highlighted by the ways in which religious practices and affiliations are influenced by regional and demographic factors, such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.

Religious doctrine's influence

Fundamentalism in religion is rooted in a strong

Fundamentalism frequently provides psychological stability and assurance to people who are grappling with existential concerns and problems. In the face of uncertainty in life, having trust in the infallible truth of one's religion can provide one a feeling of purpose and comfort. Fundamentalist ideologies provide a black-and-white worldview that provides clear instructions for resolving existential issues and moral quandarie

Confirmation bias and cognitive bias

Confirmation bias is one cognitive bias that greatly contributes to the spread of religious extremism. People often look for evidence to support their own opinions, ignoring or explaining away opposing data. This inclination to only consider data that supports one's viewpoint can help solidify fundamentalist ideas and discourage the consideration of other viewpoints.

Fear of Death and Uncertainty

Religious fundamentalism is motivated by a dread of both uncertainty and mortality. People who are struggling with existential worries and anxieties can find comfort in the belief in an afterlife and the assurance of eternal redemption. Fundamentalist beliefs give followers hope for an eternal life beyond of physical constraints and a sense of action and control in the face of mortality.

Results

In conclusion, a variety of elements, such as religious doctrine, socialization, psychological security, cognitive biases, and existential worries, have influenced the psychology of religious fundamentalism, making it a complex phenomena. Knowing the psychological underpinnings of religious fundamentalism can help explain why it is so common and endures in a variety of cultural settings. Examining how belief systems, societal forces, and personal psychology interact might help us understand The intricacies of fanatical religion.

To sum up, the sociological examination of religion provides significant understanding of its complex character and social implications. Sociologists can gain a deeper understanding of religion's operations, dynamics, and implications for social cohesion and inequality by studying it as a social institution. Religion influences many facets of human life, from symbolic rituals to systemic inequality, influencing social standards and the cultural fabric.

[fandomstudieswilberg]

The Owl House 03.14.2024

How are the following showing up in the owl house show? Culture, gender, econ centered and queer theory.  

The show delves into various cultures, both fantastical and real-world inspired. Through the diverse cast of characters and the intricately designed settings, The Owl House explores the richness of cultural diversity. Whether it's through the customs of the Boiling Isles or the character backgrounds, cultural influences are omnipresent, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of embracing different cultures. 

The Owl House challenges traditional gender norms through its characters. Luz, the protagonist, defies gender stereotypes by embracing her unique identity and interests. Characters like Amity and Eda also subvert traditional gender roles, portraying strength, vulnerability, and complexity regardless of gender. The show emphasizes the fluidity and diversity of gender expression, promoting acceptance and inclusion. 

The economic disparities within the Boiling Isles are subtly addressed throughout the series. Characters like Eda, who operates a small magic shop, navigate the challenges of making ends meet in a society where magical prowess often dictates socioeconomic status. The show critiques systems of power and privilege, highlighting the struggles of those marginalized by economic inequality. 

The Owl House embraces queer representation with its characters and storylines. Luz's crush on Amity is a central aspect of her character arc, offering LGBTQ+ viewers a relatable and empowering narrative. Additionally, characters like Raine Whispers and Camila Noceda further diversify the show's representation, normalizing queer identities and relationships within the narrative.

What would you analyze with visual theory in the owl house?  

In what ways do the character designs in The Owl House reflect personality traits and cultural influences? 

How does cinematography enhance storytelling in The Owl House, specifically in terms of camera angles, lighting, and composition? 

[abby-conrad]

Issue Exploration and Analysis

  Issue Exploration and Analysis: Intersectionality

The sociopolitical issue I have chosen to explore throughout this course is the concept of intersectionality, as it relates to its impact on each sphere of society and our relationships. The term “intersectionality” was developed by civil rights advocate Kimberlé Crenshaw to identify and explain the ways in which different aspects of one’s social identities relate to “systems of oppression, domination, or discrimination” (“FYS 101: Intersectionality). Crenshaw’s theory aims to explore and identify how categories like gender, race, ability, sexual orientation etc. interact and create a complex web that uniquely intertwines to form individuals with unique experiences. While intersectionality expresses a beautiful narrative of how we exist as complex beings within our respective societies, it also works to describe the ways in which our given identities interact to create a “complex convergence of oppression” (“FYS 101: Intersectionality).

It is both necessary and crucial to utilize the intersectional perspective in order to effectively approach the multiplex social justice issues that persist within our culture. When beginning to tackle issues such as the gender wage gap, one must also take into consideration factors such as race or socioeconomic status (among others) in order to approach it in an effectively holistic manner. If all identities are not considered inequities may be reinforced, and the approach may do more harm than good or only work to serve those within the majority (“What is Intersectionality”). 

The Center for Intersectional Justice suggests a particular approach to justice that can most effectively address the shortcomings in our current structures and legislation. The Center proposes that true justice is the “fair and equal distribution of wealth, opportunities, rights and political power within society” (“What is Intersectionality”). This approach is bottom-up rather than the more common top-down distribution of opportunity. It argues that if we mend the systematic disadvantages held by those with the greatest barriers we can develop a more harmonious culture that works towards equity and support for those at each level of our socioeconomic institutions. We can begin to mend our institutions by calling for them to provide opportunities and resources directly to our school systems, markets, taxation programs, etc. ( (“What is Intersectionality”).

As appealing as it seems our systems in the United States are wholly antithetical to this perspective and approach. Our institutions idolize and thrive off of hierarchy, competition, privilege, and power for select groups who have historically dominated. The dismantling of these frameworks is challenging, but I believe it is a necessary step in reworking a society conducive to diversity and inclusion in its most authentic form. A lot of this change begins with legislation aimed at reallocating funds and redistributing opportunities in a way that is appropriate for both individual communities and on a federal level. However, in a more tangible way we can support the cause by continuing to educate ourselves on different identities and their impacts, as well as celebrate what makes us unique and crucial to a vibrant society (“Making it Work How-To Guide: Intersectionality in Practice”). 

References 

Carastathis, Anna. Intersectionality : Origins, Contestations, Horizons / Anna Carastathis. University of Nebraska Press, 2016. EBSCOhost, research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=eb9d7dc5-8424-3c5c-b661-015ee4673466.

Making It Work How-to Guide: Intersectionality in Practice, Inclusive Friends Association, Mar. 2022, www.makingitwork-crpd.org/sites/default/files/2022-03/MIW%20How-To-Guide-Intersectionality%2008March2022.docx. 

“Research Guides: FYS 101: Intersectionality.” Intersectionality - FYS 101 - Research Guides at Syracuse University Libraries, researchguides.library.syr.edu/fys101/intersectionality#:~:text=Intersectionality%20(or%20intersectional%20theory)%20is,oppression%2C%20domination%2C%20or%20discrimination. Accessed 2 Feb. 2024. 

Steinmetz, Katy. “Kimberlé Crenshaw on What Intersectionality Means Today.” Time, Time, 20 Feb. 2020, time.com/5786710/kimberle-crenshaw-intersectionality/. 

“What Is Intersectionality” Center for Intersectional Justice , www.intersectionaljustice.org/what-is-intersectionality.

[vincentbarletta1]

Unveiling Tomorrow: The Shaping Forces of Future Technology

The ceaseless march of technology is set to propel us into a future that promises unprecedented advancements. As we peer into the horizon of innovation, dissecting the key components that will define tomorrow's technological landscape becomes imperative.

Robotics and Automation

Intelligent Automation

Robotics and automation are evolving beyond repetitive tasks, stepping into realms of intelligence and adaptability. Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into robotics allows robots to learn from experience, collaborate with humans, and perform intricate tasks in diverse environments. Industries from manufacturing to healthcare are witnessing a transformative wave of efficiency and precision.

Socioeconomic Impacts

The surge in automation, however, raises concerns about job displacement and societal inequalities. Striking a balance between the advantages of automation and the potential socioeconomic challenges will be crucial. Education and upskilling programs will be pivotal in preparing the workforce for the evolving job landscape.

Space Exploration and Colonization

Beyond Earth's Borders

The future of technology extends beyond our planet, with space exploration and colonization on the horizon. Advancements in propulsion systems, life support technologies, and sustainable space habitats make the dream of humans living on other celestial bodies a tangible possibility.

Ethical Considerations in Space

As humanity extends its reach into space, ethical considerations become paramount. Questions about the responsible use of space resources, potential conflicts, and the preservation of celestial environments demand careful examination. Crafting an ethical framework for space exploration will be vital in ensuring the sustainability of our ventures beyond Earth.

5G Technology

Hyperconnectivity

The advent of 5G technology is set to revolutionize connectivity, offering speeds and bandwidth that were previously unimaginable. This leap in communication capabilities will foster the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling real-time data transfer and enhancing the efficiency of various industries, from smart cities to autonomous vehicles.

Infrastructure Challenges

While 5G brings promises of hyperconnectivity, its implementation poses challenges related to infrastructure. Building a robust and widespread 5G network requires substantial investment and collaborative efforts between governments and private sectors. Overcoming these challenges will be instrumental in unlocking the full potential of 5G technology.

Brain-Computer Interfaces

Merging Minds and Machines

The convergence of neuroscience and technology is giving rise to Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs). These interfaces enable direct communication between the brain and external devices, opening new frontiers in healthcare, communication, and human-computer interaction. From controlling prosthetics with thoughts to immersive virtual reality experiences, BCIs hold transformative potential.

Ethical and Privacy Concerns

Integrating BCIs into daily life raises ethical concerns about privacy, security, and the potential misuse of neural data. Establishing ethical guidelines and robust security measures will be imperative in ensuring the responsible development and deployment of Brain-Computer Interfaces.

Nanotechnology

Microscopic Marvels

Nanotechnology involves manipulating matter at the nanoscale, leading to groundbreaking innovations in various fields. From medicine and electronics to materials science, nanotechnology can revolutionize how we create, interact, and understand the world around us.

Environmental and Health Considerations

While nanotechnology holds immense promise, concerns about its environmental impact and potential health risks must be addressed. Ethical research practices and stringent safety measures will be essential in harnessing the full potential of nanotechnology without compromising the well-being of ecosystems and human health.

The future of technology is an intricate tapestry woven with threads of innovation, ethical considerations, and societal impacts. The possibilities are vast, from the intelligent automation of robotics to the hyperconnectivity of 5G, and the exploration of space to the intimate integration of Brain-Computer Interfaces. As we embark on this journey into the future, navigating the evolving technological landscape with a keen awareness of the ethical, social, and environmental implications is paramount. By embracing innovation responsibly, we can ensure that the future unfolds as a marvel of technology and a testament to the harmonious coexistence of progress and humanity.

[jcmarchi]

AI and Educational Equity: A Blueprint for Closing the Gap

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/ai-and-educational-equity-a-blueprint-for-closing-the-gap/

AI and Educational Equity: A Blueprint for Closing the Gap

In an ideal world, everyone would have the same opportunity for a quality education. However, the reality is far from this view. There are differences in the status and quality of education related to factors such as socioeconomic status, cultural barriers and language barriers. Although we live in an age of unprecedented technological and social progress, differences in possession, the gap between more educational opportunities and less access is largely the result of failed policies.

As if things weren’t bad enough, the COVID-19 pandemic made it more difficult. In a time where we rely very heavily on technology and its byproducts, not everyone has the luxury and the privilege of having access to them. This has further increased the education inequity gap. Although technology has the potential to make education easier to access for everyone, it can also act as a barrier that worsens inequity, especially for those already at a disadvantage.

This blog is going to explore the complex topic of how artificial intelligence (AI) can help make education fair for everyone. We’ll go beyond the usual conversations and think of other creative ways that AI can help us make schools better and more equitable for everyone in the future.

Education “inequality” and “inequity” are often used interchangeably but for the sake of this blog it’s important to make the distinction in the context of education. Inequality describes the uneven distribution of educational outcomes, while inequity indicates when these inequalities are unfair and systematic. Basically, inequality is a symptom, but inequity is the problem we aim to solve. In this blog, we specifically focus on using AI to address educational inequities.

The Current State of Educational Inequity: Hard Facts

Globally, 258 million children, adolescents, and youth are not in school. This number isn’t uniform across regions: 31% of young people are out of school in sub-Saharan Africa and 21% in Central Asia, compared to only 3% in Europe and North America. These figures demonstrate the stark disparities in educational access between developed and developing nations.

But even attendance doesn’t capture the full picture. Learning outcomes, or what students are actually able to understand and do, reveal another layer of inequity. In Brazil, for example, it would take 15-year-olds 75 years to catch up to the average math scores of their counterparts in wealthier countries, given the current pace of educational improvement. For reading, this gap widens to an estimated 260 years.

In-country inequities further illustrate the point. In Mexico, 80% of indigenous children finishing primary school do not reach basic competency levels in reading and math. These students are falling further behind and the gap widens in educational achievement.

These numbers are more than just data points; they are indicators of real, systemic issues that require attention and action.

Causes of Educational Inequity: Digging Deeper

Educational inequity is a complex issue that stems from a variety of factors. To understand the root causes, we need to go beyond surface-level observations and delve into the mechanisms that perpetuate this systemic problem.

Resource Allocation: Primary cause of education inequity is the skewed distribution of educational resources. Unfortunately, education has become the political grounds for students in many countries which has caused the resources to be allocated to where most of the political pressures are rather than the area that needs resources the most. Such attention usually stems from urban communities or those with a dominant cultural or educational background. Consequently, schools located in financially challenged or remote localities, or those primarily serving underrepresented communities, are at a disadvantage when it comes to things like facilities, materials, and qualified educators.

Teacher Training: Teachers are crucial in determining the success of educational programs. If insufficient focus is placed on both initial and ongoing training for teachers, the result is often gaps in student learning. This problem is pronounced in areas where teachers per capita is significantly lower and access to quality education for these educators are more scarce.

Curriculum Relevance: The diversity of a country often comes into conflict with a one-size-fits-all educational curriculum. Students from rural areas or cultural minorities, or those living in poverty, often find the standardized curriculum irrelevant or meaningless. This mismatch is exacerbated when the language of instruction differs from the students’ native languages, leading to reduced learning and higher dropout rates.

Social Factors: Prejudices, stereotypes, and sometimes even overt racism and sexism, can also contribute to educational inequity. Disadvantaged students often encounter negative attitudes from teachers and classmates, affecting their willingness to learn and increasing the likelihood of early dropout.

Each of these factors is not just an independent issue but part of an interconnected web that feeds into the larger system of educational inequity. Addressing this complex challenge requires a multi-faceted approach, which we will explore in the subsequent sections.

Why AI Can Make a Difference in Addressing Educational Inequity

Artificial Intelligence has the potential to revolutionize how we approach educational inequity by offering solutions that are both scalable and personalized. Take resource allocation, for instance. AI-driven analytics can identify underserved schools and student populations, enabling governments and educational institutions to distribute resources more equitably. This data-driven approach can apply pressure where it’s most needed, rather than where it’s most politically expedient.

In terms of teacher training, AI can facilitate remote learning and professional development opportunities, breaking down the geographical barriers that often leave educators in impoverished or rural areas without access to quality training. This amplifies the human capacity to teach by equipping educators with the skills and support they need to be effective, irrespective of their location.

As for the curriculum, AI-powered adaptive learning systems can personalize education to suit the individual needs of each student. This is especially crucial for students from diverse backgrounds, who may find a “one-size-fits-all” curriculum irrelevant or challenging. These intelligent systems can even adapt the language of instruction, bridging gaps that may otherwise lead to reduced learning and higher dropout rates.

Lastly, AI can mitigate the social factors contributing to educational inequity. Intelligent systems can be designed to be culturally sensitive, avoiding the biases and prejudices that might otherwise be perpetuated in educational settings. These systems can also identify patterns of discrimination or bias, alerting administrators to issues before they escalate, thus fostering a more inclusive educational environment.

A Vision for the Future: AI Transforming a Rural School District

Imagine a rural school district where educational disparities are starkly evident. Teachers are undertrained, resources are scarce, and societal prejudices persist. To tackle these issues head-on, the district integrates a cutting-edge AI educational system, resembling platforms like Penseum.

Right off the bat, the AI platform performs a thorough needs assessment. It combs through data on student grades, attendance records, and even local demographic factors. This nuanced understanding allows school authorities to shift resources where they’re most needed.

Teachers get personalized professional growth opportunities through a dedicated portal. No matter where they are in their career, the platform serves up relevant training and even remote mentorship, enabling them to become more effective educators.

For the students, an adaptive learning platform reshapes their educational experience. It customizes lessons based on a detailed profile of each student’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning preferences. Additionally, it alerts educators about students who might be veering off course, enabling timely interventions.

But that’s not all. As the academic year unfolds, the platform also begins to spot more subtle problems, like implicit biases in evaluations and imbalances in resource distribution. School administrators are notified, and remedial steps are immediately taken. Teachers can access specialized training to counteract unconscious biases, ensuring a more equitable learning environment for everyone.

This isn’t just technology for the sake of technology; it’s a holistic approach to dismantling the barriers that perpetuate educational inequality. Over time, the district evolves, becoming a blueprint for how platforms like Penseum can democratize education, making it more equitable and inclusive.

Drawing Parallels: AI in Healthcare as an Adjacent Scenario

When considering the transformative potential of AI in education, it might be instructive to examine its applications in healthcare, another sector fraught with systemic inequities. Just like in education, the healthcare system faces challenges like resource allocation, access to quality services, and cultural biases, among others. AI has already started to make inroads in addressing some of these issues in healthcare, offering promising implications for its application in the educational sphere.

For instance, IBM’s Watson Health has developed AI-driven predictive analytics tools that help healthcare providers make informed decisions. These tools analyze vast amounts of patient data to identify trends or flag risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. In this way, healthcare resources can be allocated more efficiently, prioritizing those most in need—much like how AI in education can help allocate resources to disadvantaged schools or districts.

Similarly, companies like Zebra Medical Vision have been pioneering in the field of medical imaging. Their AI algorithms can analyze medical images and spot potential anomalies, which is particularly useful in regions that lack the expertise in radiology. The technology, thus, has the power to democratize access to quality healthcare diagnostics, just as AI has the potential to democratize education through tailored learning experiences.

Google’s DeepMind has developed an AI system that can identify eye diseases in scans, providing early detection that could prevent more severe vision loss down the line. This is especially significant for under-resourced communities where such medical expertise is lacking. By the same token, AI systems in education could offer early detection of learning disabilities, enabling timely interventions that could make a substantial difference in a child’s academic trajectory.

By examining these real-world applications of AI in healthcare, we can begin to construct a vision for how similar technology could be leveraged to combat inequities in the educational system. Both sectors share the imperative to serve diverse populations fairly and effectively, and in both cases, AI offers tools that can help achieve this goal.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations: The Dual-Edged Sword of AI

While the applications of artificial intelligence hold immense promise for bridging gaps in educational equity, there are important challenges and ethical considerations that cannot be ignored. The excitement surrounding this technological frontier must be tempered by critical examinations of its potential downsides, many of which can inadvertently exacerbate existing inequalities.

Firstly, data privacy stands as a major ethical concern. Educational systems hold sensitive information about students, including academic records, socio-economic status, and even behavioral assessments. As AI systems require large datasets to function effectively, the question arises: Who owns this data, and how secure is it? Mishandling of such information could have serious repercussions, potentially violating students’ privacy or enabling unauthorized profiling.

Another concern revolves around the quality and fairness of algorithms. As human biases can be coded into these algorithms, we run the risk of perpetuating, or even amplifying, existing prejudices. Whether it’s racial, economic, or gender biases, AI systems could inadvertently favor one group over another, thereby worsening the educational divide rather than alleviating it.

The accessibility of AI tools is another major issue. Schools in affluent neighborhoods are more likely to afford advanced AI-based educational systems, potentially widening the gap between them and underfunded schools. Unless there are concerted efforts to democratize access to these technologies, the potential for AI to serve as an equalizing force in education remains compromised.

Moreover, there’s the question of teacher and student autonomy. While AI can be a helpful tool, there’s a very real concern that over-reliance on algorithms could undermine the role of educators in crafting curricula and evaluating student progress. Similarly, while personalized learning paths created by AI can benefit students, they could also create an overly structured environment that stifles creativity and independent thought.

Lastly, there’s a lack of long-term studies examining the efficacy and ethical implications of using AI in education. This creates a knowledge gap that makes it difficult to forecast the unintended consequences of integrating these technologies into educational settings.

While AI offers a tantalizing possibility for improving educational equity, it also poses a series of ethical and practical challenges that need to be thoughtfully addressed. Recognizing these challenges is not an argument against the use of AI in education but a call for a more nuanced, ethically responsible approach to its implementation.

A Balanced View on the AI-Education Nexus

As we explore the transformative possibilities of AI in the educational landscape, it is crucial to adopt a balanced perspective. Artificial intelligence holds significant promise for addressing many of the systemic inequities that plague education systems globally. From personalized learning pathways to more equitable resource allocation, the potential benefits are both sweeping and impactful. However, this is not a one-sided narrative. The complexities of introducing AI into such a delicate ecosystem, fraught with ethical and logistical pitfalls, cannot be overstated.

While AI can be a powerful tool for augmenting educational quality and fairness, its implementation requires a cautious approach. We must engage in constant ethical scrutiny, ensuring that privacy is protected, biases are mitigated, and access is democratized. At the same time, safeguarding the roles of teachers and students as active, creative participants in the learning process is non-negotiable. The absence of long-term empirical studies on the subject calls for an ongoing commitment to research and evaluation, as we step into this largely uncharted territory.

In essence, the journey towards integrating AI in education is much like navigating a complex maze. Each turn presents opportunities and challenges, and while the destination—a more equitable educational landscape—is compelling, the path to get there is fraught with questions that demand thoughtful answers. Ignoring these questions is not an option; instead, they should serve as guideposts, shaping a more informed, ethical, and ultimately, effective application of AI in education. Only then can we hope to fulfill the technology’s promise without falling prey to its perils.

[activismarchive]

How does social class affect digital activism? 

We (as a society) live in a digital world. Our work and social lives revolve around keyboard clicks and status updates. However, equal opportunity does not equate to equal reach. Studies have shown that those who make larger salaries or have more educational experience ‘are more likely to participate in online civic engagement activities’. (Schradie, 2018) Why is this the case? Equal opportunity doesn’t always lend itself to equal access. To participate in digital activism, one needs access to an electronic device and its catalyst, the internet. Neither of these components come free and despite the efforts of some companies attempting to shrink wage disparities, not everyone has disposable income to spend on a smartphone or laptop. Another factor to consider is time. Existing in the digital world is a hobby for many (though a job for some) and doesn’t come with monetary incentive. With this knowledge in mind, it's easier to understand why ‘the poor and working class may not be as likely to have this disposable digital labor available to them’. (Schradie, 2018) What distinguishes social media labor from being a way to casually interact with the world and how does digital activism interact with digital labor? For some, digital labor is simply what it sounds like- a job. Whether the forum is a blog post or a social media upload, many people are now able to make their means through the online sphere. For the average social media user, who doesn’t find themselves on the internet to make a profit, being online can become labor the moment their user experience is no longer passive. In another article written by Jen Schradie, she shares her findings from a study on the class divide found within blogging. In her conclusion she states, “More productive applications will continue to emerge with people from lower socioeconomic levels on a treadmill never able to catch up. Instead of a trend toward more egalitarian findings, blogging shows a consistent gap.” (2012) While it is certainly possible that these statistics have shifted over the past decade, the trend of those with larger or more heavily weighted platforms driving the algorithm has remained the same. In fact, many social media content creators today use their platforms as a form of digital blogging, drawing a parallel between the past and present digital spheres. It is an access issue on all fronts- both in regard to time and technology.

Actiivism online requires thought. It requires more than just a thumb slide across the screen or the tap of a like on many occasions (examples: responding to a post or signing an online petition). Although ‘activism’ could be defined subjectively, most active participants in digital activism feel that certain issues are important enough to put their ‘disposable labor’ towards, but those within the higher monetary or educational classes are allotted more daily time (either physically or through means of money related flexibility) to contribute to their online presence. 

Schradie, J. (2018) The Digital Activism Gap: How Class and Costs Shape Online Collective Action, Social Problems, Volume 65, Issue 1, Pages 51–74, https://doi.org/10.1093/socpro/spx042 

Schradie, J. (2012) THE TREND OF CLASS, RACE, AND ETHNICITY IN SOCIAL MEDIA INEQUALITY, Information, Communication & Society, 15:4, 555-571, DOI: 10.1080/1369118X.2012.665939 

[theodorevitaleblog]

The Impact and Influence of Human Relations Commissions on Our Society - Yahya Yuksel

Human Relations Commissions, often governmental bodies, serve a pivotal role in promoting understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect among diverse groups within a society. They are tasked with addressing issues of discrimination, prejudice, and bias, all while fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and equality. Through initiatives such as community outreach, public education, and policy recommendations, these commissions strive to elevate social justice and strengthen the social fabric. Their significance is monumental in our society, especially in an era where there's an urgent call for unity in diversity. They not only help maintain social harmony but also work towards building more inclusive, equitable communities.

Human Relations Commissions play a critical role in fostering a harmonious community by actively addressing discrimination and promoting diversity and inclusivity. Their primary responsibilities include investigating complaints of discrimination in areas such as housing, employment, education, and public services. Using a combination of conflict resolution strategies, legal frameworks, and policy recommendations, they seek to rectify these issues and prevent their recurrence. Yahya Yuksel

Beyond their reactive role in addressing discrimination, these commissions also have proactive duties. They often conduct community outreach, public education campaigns, and training workshops to raise awareness about the values of diversity and inclusivity. Additionally, they provide guidance and recommendations on human relations issues to both public and private entities, helping to shape policies that ensure fair treatment of all community members.

The purpose of Human Relations Commissions is essentially to build communities where every individual feels valued and respected, irrespective of race, religion, gender, age, or socioeconomic status. By fostering an environment of understanding and mutual respect, they help to create a society where every individual can thrive.

The impact of Human Relations Commissions on society is profound and far-reaching, particularly in promoting equality and justice. They actively champion fairness, helping to break down barriers that perpetuate inequality and create a fair and equitable society for everyone.

For instance, the San Francisco Human Rights Commission has made significant strides in advancing the rights of marginalized communities. Through its policy work and community engagement initiatives, it has helped bring about legislative changes that enhance protections for LGBTQ+ residents, ensuring they enjoy the same rights as everyone else. Yahya "John" Yuksel

Similarly, the New York City Commission on Human Rights has been instrumental in combating housing discrimination. The commission's enforcement of fair housing laws has helped thousands of individuals and families secure housing without facing discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or other protected categories.

On a smaller scale, but no less impactful, the Tucson Human Relations Commission has been promoting unity within its community through education and community outreach. It has implemented numerous policies that foster mutual respect and understanding among its diverse population, exemplifying the transformative power of Human Relations Commissions in creating more inclusive societies.

These are just a few examples of how Human Relations Commissions across different regions have been successful in their endeavours. Their achievements demonstrate the significant role they play in shaping a society where justice prevails, and everyone is treated equally.

The Tucson Human Relations Commission (THRC) in Arizona, established in 1976, has a long-standing history of advocating for civil rights, promoting mutual understanding, and fostering respect among the city's diverse inhabitants. With a commitment to ensuring every person in Tucson enjoys equal rights and opportunities, the THRC focuses on issues such as housing, public accommodation, employment, and education.

One notable achievement of the THRC is the development and implementation of the Tucson Civil Rights Act, a landmark piece of legislation prohibiting discrimination based on race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, age, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This act has been instrumental in protecting the rights of Tucson's citizens in a variety of facets of everyday life.

Moreover, the THRC has made significant contributions to the community through various initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusivity. Their annual Diversity Breakfast, for example, brings together leaders from different sectors to celebrate Tucson's diversity and foster mutual understanding and respect among its residents.

Through its persistent efforts, the THRC has undoubtedly contributed to Tucson becoming a more welcoming, inclusive, and equitable city. It stands as a testament to the significant role of Human Relations Commissions in promoting social justice and equality within a community.

Despite their significant contributions to society, Human Relations Commissions face a series of challenges. Primarily, there is often a lack of awareness about their existence and the benefits they bring to communities. This lack of visibility can hinder the effectiveness of their initiatives, as people who need their services often are unaware that they exist. To tackle this, commissions need to be proactive in their public communication and community engagement strategies.

Funding is another major challenge. As these commissions are usually publicly funded, they are often subject to budget constraints which can limit their ability to implement programs or investigate complaints. Advocacy for sufficient funding from local, state, and federal sources is crucial to address this issue.

Another challenge involves the complexities of dealing with discrimination cases. These cases can be legally and emotionally challenging, requiring skilled personnel to handle them delicately and equitably. This makes the recruitment and training of qualified staff another fundamental challenge.

Lastly, the constantly evolving nature of societal norms and behaviours means that Human Relations Commissions must be adaptable and flexible. They must stay ahead of these changes to effectively address any new forms of discrimination that may arise.

To overcome these obstacles, Human Relations Commissions need to adopt strategic measures such as forging partnerships with other organizations, leveraging technology to reach wider audiences, seeking alternative funding sources, and investing in continuous training and development of their staff. The journey might be strenuous, but the result—a society that is fair, just, and inclusive—is worth every effort.

In conclusion, Human Relations Commissions, such as the Tucson Human Relations Commission, are vital instruments for promoting social justice, equality, and inclusivity in our communities. Despite the challenges they face, their contributions to society are significant and transformative. They work tirelessly to break down barriers of discrimination and prejudice, fostering environments where every individual can thrive.

The examples of their work underscore the importance of supporting these commissions, ensuring they have the necessary resources and visibility to continue their critical mission. Acknowledging and overcoming these challenges will empower them to continue their invaluable work, paving the way for more equitable societies where everyone enjoys equal rights and opportunities.

[jmdonline]

Billionaires Are Actually Less Intelligent Than Lower-Paid People New Study Shows

Billionaire Lifestyle

Billionaires Are Actually Less Intelligent Than Lower-Paid People New Study Shows. New research has shattered the myth that the ultra-wealthy are the smartest people around. According to a recent study, being a billionaire doesn't necessarily equate to having a superior intellect. In fact, the study reveals that those in the top 1% of earners, aka billionaires, scored lower on cognitive ability tests than those who earned just slightly less than they do.

A comprehensive study conducted by researchers from Linköping University in Sweden, the European University Institute in Italy, and the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, analyzed data from 59,400 Swedish men who took a military conscription test when they were young adults. The researchers then meticulously tracked their career trajectories, earnings, and job prestige for over a decade, from when they were 35 until they turned 45.

The results showed a strong relationship between intelligence and earning potential until the figure exceeded $64,000 a year. Beyond this point, the correlation became almost negligible. And at the highest pay scales, intelligence plateaued, suggesting that other factors, such as socioeconomic background, culture, personality traits and luck, became more significant.

The study also found that job prestige didn't increase with cognitive ability at higher pay scales. In professions such as medicine, law and academia, more prestige didn't seem directly related to more income. The findings challenge the idea that success and higher levels of income are earned by superior intellect and talent. Instead, the researchers suggest that small initial success differences between individuals can grow into extreme inequalities over time.

The study has limitations. It focused only on men, limiting its generalizability to the wider population. But it still provides a relatively large sample across a variety of pay levels and occupations.

In a world where the ultra-rich continue to get richer and have more influence over global political, social and economic landscapes, the study's findings are significant. The argument that those taking home the most pay deserve it the most is one that needs to be challenged, the researchers point out, especially at the highest end of the scale. "Along an important dimension of merit, cognitive ability, we find no evidence that those with top jobs that pay extraordinary wages are more deserving than those who earn only half those wages," they wrote. The research team wrote that "small initial success differences between individuals are not canceled out over time but instead grow into winner-take-all distributions characterized by extreme inequalities."

This concept is not new, as Malcolm Gladwell's bestseller “Outliers” explained how rare opportunities and sheer luck play a significant role in the success stories of the most accomplished people.

Michel Ouellette JMD, ll.l., ll.m. Systemic Strategic Planning / Regulatory Compliance / Crisis & Reputation Management

Skype: jmdlive

Phone: 1. 613.539.1793

Email: jmdlive@live.ca

Web: https://www.jmichaeldennis.live/

Michel Ouellette / J. Michael Dennis is a Former Attorney, a Trial Scientist, a Crisis & Reputation Management Expert, a Public Affairs & Corporate Communications Specialist, a Warrior for Common Sense and Free Speech.

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[naymaasblog]

The history of redlining

Leading social change:

Blog #2

By: Naymaa Ahmed

A discriminatory practice known as "redlining" first appeared in the US in the early 20th century, and Portland, Oregon, was one of its locations. Based on the racial or cultural makeup of a community, it refers to the systematic denial of financial services including loans, insurance, and investment opportunities. Due to the designation of some regions as "high-risk" or "undesirable" for financing, this practice disproportionately impacted African American communities and restricted their access to housing and other financial resources. locations such as Vanport, Oregon. Determining what is and is not within the purview of this research is essential for a better understanding of the issue. In this case, the research's primary focus would be on the background of redlining in Portland, including its inception, application, and impacted communities. It would also cover the current redlining-related socioeconomic gaps as well as any ongoing initiatives to alleviate these problems. draw attention to the long-term effects of redlining, including the aggravation of racial segregation in the city, wealth inequality, and the continuation of poverty throughout generations. Highlighting the interdependence of these matters can facilitate a more comprehensive comprehension of the extensive consequences of redlining on the impacted neighborhoods and Portland's general socioeconomic structure. As we go on to Redlings, the Federal Housing Administration provided veterans with mortgage loans, enabling millions of families to buy homes. Unfortunately, these loans did not help the black community because the criteria used to determine who would receive home loans were overtly racist, making it hard for people of color to buy a home even in times of prosperity. segregating everyone and assigning each applicant a color based on where their property is located. Albina and downtown Portland are redlined. Where, by coincidence, there are the most Black residents(Gross,2020). Due to all of the unconstitutional bills and decisions that were passed at that time. Today, it has a significant impact on the black community. Resulting in a 32% difference between White and Black Portlanders who own homes. All of this is the outcome of 150 years of redlining, mismanagement, and unabashed prejudice. Starting with the flood that destroyed Vanport as a city. Forcing tens of thousands of people to leave their homes and move into a neighborhood where it was obvious they were not wanted. All of this was the start & result of how racism was built into our housing systems in the 1940s.Redlining in Portland is a problem with roots in social inequality and systematic racism, which is one reason it matters. In addition to being morally reprehensible, discrimination based on race subverts the ideals of justice and equality that our society ought to uphold. Our concern for this issue reflects our recognition of the need to right historical wrongs and build a society that is more just and inclusive. What leads us to believe that Portland is now socially fair if it wasn't before? How can you be certain that these maps and bills aren't concealed somewhere in your city?

Sauer, Taryn. “Race and Housing Part III: Under the Guise of Renewal.” Habitat Portland Region, 31 Aug. 2020, https://habitatportlandregion.org/race-and-housing-part-iii-under-the-guise-of-renewal/

[multiculturalamerica]

InclusivAction

InclusivAction is an Instagram page is based in Los Angeles, California and was created in 2008. It is a nonprofit organization that works to create a more inclusive city, with a basis in economy that allows people to create the life that they want. They aim to blend the lines of socioeconomic statuses throughout the city and allow people to live among one another. Although economic status is not something we have specifically discussed, it is based in race as many things are. Different races can be segregated in certain neighborhoods to be kept at low socioeconomic status, as we discussed in our readings on Mexican labor immigrants. InclusivAction has held information nights teaching people how to be more green, work with the city to begin to change the presence of homelessness in LA, and work in general to create a more inclusive city.

            InclusivAction is an Instagram page, consisting of pictures and short videos. This relates to our early discussions of how photographs can translate images, differently than words can. In Suken and Cartwrights Practices of Looking, they write “We engage in practices of looking to communicate, to influence, and to be influenced” (pg.4). Social media is often associated with the idea of influence, and they way that it can influence those around you. An important part of InclusivAction, besides creating a better city, is making residents aware that the city is not inclusive. It creates communication around the idea that there are things within the city that need to change. Within the same piece, the authors write, “Connotative meanings are informed by the cultural and historical contexts of the image and its viewers’ lived, felt knowledge of those circumstances- all that image means to them personally and socially” (pg. 15). Connotative meaning is very important in this case because at face value this page may seem simply as a reflection of the city, but the connotative meaning behind it is the inequality that exists within the city.

            I chose this page, because I felt there was a large amount of cross sectionalism with the idea of creating an inclusive city. This organization focuses specifically on the economic statuses of the people within the city. Economic status stems from our cultural identity, as well as gender, religious and everything else that falls within our identity. Cultural identity can segregate people to certain neighborhoods, we see unequal pay between genders, although discrimination in hiring is protected by law it still does happen. Tackling such a diverse issue such as socioeconomic status requires consideration of all the topics, we have talked about throughout this semester. The goal of a more inclusive city will never be possible without the consideration of each individual factor that goes into this idea.

[esgagile]

All Stakeholders Gain from Credible Sustainability Impact Reporting

As a Sustainability Report Consultant In UAE, the Global Reporting Initiative, the organization that created the world's most widely used sustainability reporting standards, has recently adopted a more proactive approach to our communication of the shifts and difficulties in the ESG landscape. You could wonder why now. We are, in fact, at a turning point in developing corporate openness. In one approach, transparency may be more limited and subject to less scrutiny; in the other, chances for thorough reporting that promotes accountability may arise. But to put it plainly, it's beneficial for a business to notify all parties. Investors, your role is crucial.

We are a Sustainability Reporting Consultant In UAE; as part of our efforts to increase understanding among all stakeholders and clear up some of the current confusion, we are providing "the GRI perspective" on these significant developments. We also make a case for the switch to an improved, more transparent corporate reporting system for financial and sustainability disclosure. With the number of articles written on the subject, it could sound contentious to say there are no sustainability criteria. Indeed, there are many ESG-related rules, standards, surveys, and certifications. Nevertheless, there are only two organizations that determine global reporting standards.

As Sustainability Report Consultant, Companies demonstrate that they live up to their sustainability commitments by offering comparable, verifiable facts. Governments, civil society, rating agencies, academia, and investors all desire this certainty. A stakeholder-centric corporate strategy can provide several advantages, such as improving reputation and brand recognition, hiring new employees easier, reducing environmental hazards, and gaining access to capital markets. Hence, when attempting to convey how the company is accountable to people and the environment, elaborating on how corporate actions seek to protect stakeholder interests in addition to being lucrative is a valuable tool.

To help you as Sustainability Report Consultant In UAE, the GRI Guidelines and financial disclosure are essential for achieving socioeconomic and environmental cohesion since they require a broader viewpoint than investor interests or climate indicators. To address financial and sustainability objectives, we continue to advocate for a two-pillar reporting structure with a core set of disclosures and each pillar treated equally. This would boost trust and credibility in the sustainability performance of businesses by meeting the information needs of investors and other stakeholders.

According to materiality, different standards serve various goals for various audiences. Impact standards, which educate a more comprehensive range of stakeholders, are based on principles other than standards whose only purpose is to inform investors. Credible reporting standards are advantageous for all stakeholder groups and necessary to alleviate remaining worries about "greenwashing." the application of these standards must be precise in its objectives, which is crucial. Sustainability issues, such as biodiversity loss, climate change, health crises, and inequality, can only be solved if the aim is kept in mind.

Being a Sustainability Reporting Consultant In UAE, we know this is a problem that ESG ratings, rankings, and frameworks must have a clear reporting requirement to solve. Transparency on impacts is necessary since it promotes sustainable behavior. Markets and stakeholders all across the world are starting to understand this viewpoint. Hence, GRI's position, relevance, and multi-stakeholder responsibility that our standards represent will continue to expand as the ESG landscape changes.