#institute for the study of nonviolence

[garadinervi]

Robert Bly, Counting Small-boned Bodies, (broadside), Institute for the Study of Nonviolence, Palo Alto, CA, n.d. [Granary Books, New York, NY. © Robert Bly]

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Noah Berlatsky at Public Notice:

Last week, billionaire and onetime unofficial co-president Elon Musk ended his tenure as a special government employee after four months of spreading chaos, misery, and death throughout the federal government and world. Much reporting has attributed his departure to philosophical differences with President Trump. Musk has criticized various Trump policies, most recently the House GOP spending bill for adding trillions to the federal deficit. But a crucial factor in Musk’s departure has been the grassroots protest that has damaged Musk’s businesses and helped destroy his popularity. Musk remains very powerful and may well continue to serve in an advisory role for Trump even if he’s more behind the scenes. But his retreat and obvious wish to distance himself from a government role he initially relished demonstrates that organized resistance can damage even the wealthiest man on earth.

Opposing Musk

Musk spent some $250 million on Trump’s campaign in 2024. As a quid pro quo, he was put in charge of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), with a remit to cut federal spending and line his pockets by hoovering up even more lucrative government contracts for his companies. Though DOGE has no real authority from Congress, its personnel — mostly Musk’s employees and loyalists who go by monikers like “Big Balls” — were given sweeping (and unconstitutional) permission by Trump to freeze congressionally appropriated funds. DOGE is believed to have fired more than 200,000 federal employees.

As one example of its overreach, DOGE recklessly cut resources at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, gutting US forecasting abilities, with possibly devastating consequences for predicting future weather emergencies. More, last week one researcher discovered that DOGE’s cuts to USAID have probably already killed 300,000 people, most of them children. An estimate by Nature suggests that DOGE cuts to foreign aid could kill 21 million people over 15 years. Even if you set aside the horrific death toll and judge DOGE strictly on its own supposed goals, it seems likely that the whole lawless, cruel exercise will cost more than it saved. There have been numerous lawsuits to attempt to stop Musk’s reckless attack on the government and Constitution. A suit by several Democratic state attorneys to declare the whole enterprise illegal moved forward last week. The US Institute of Peace — an independent agency established by Congress — won a lawsuit regaining control over its own building which DOGE had illegally taken over. There are ongoing negotiations and lawsuits over DOGE’s (terrifying) access to sensitive financial data.

[...] Soon after Musk joined the Trump administration, a decentralized protest movement known as Tesla Takedown began staging nonviolent protests across the country. A major event at the end of March included protests in 253 cities, in the US and abroad. Individuals have also expressed their anger at Musk by targeting his company and those who buy its products. One recent study by Guardian Service found that 46 percent of Tesla owners said that their cars have been vandalized, and 43 percent said they’d seen “rude gestures or negative comments from strangers while behind the wheel.” These incidents aren’t necessarily violent or all that damaging — political columnist Chris Cillizza reported with some outrage that someone had “defaced” his Tesla by leaving a sticker on his car saying “Musk is a Nazi.” But the cumulative effect is to make Tesla ownership toxic. The Guardian Service study found that a third of Tesla owners were considering selling their cars within a year.

The Tesla Takedown operations helped take down Elon Musk, as he exits the Trump White House… for now.

See Also:

Brian Tyler Cohen: Elon leaves with reputation in tatters

The Status Kuo (Jay Kuo): Yes, We Did Defeat Elon Musk…For Now

[catboymoments]

So Ultimate Titles still exist in the future…does this cause any problems given what happened last time?

Not really, it’s not tied to hopes peak this time around and if anything it’s just a moniker for what they’re good at. I got rid of a lot of the stuff that happened at the end of DR3 with makoto rebuilding hopes peak because that shit sucks and kind of goes against the whole point they were trying to make with the institution valuing talent above all else- in my postcanon universe what was left of future foundation merged with other organizations from other countries post tragedy and created operation Newdawn which is focused on rebuilding. One of the main buildings on Newdawn’s home base is a school that helps naturally cultivate kids skills with the help of the neo world program and on site enrichment/study and play for the purpose of restoring society, and the students know this going in!!

Hayato, Sakura, Lilith, Youko and Natsuki are all enrolled, Lucifer is remotely enrolled/homeschooled due to his health issues and Akio, due to being older than the school and in a bit of a weird position growing up, got his title just by spending a lot of his education following around the THH survivors on nonviolent missions and helping plant trees/save animals etc.

[camisoledadparis]

THIS DAY IN GAY HISTORY

based on: The White Crane Institute's 'Gay Wisdom', Gay Birthdays, Gay For Today, Famous GLBT, glbt-Gay Encylopedia, Today in Gay History, Wikipedia, and more … January 15

1622 – On this date the French playwright Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, better known as Molière was born (d.1673). Considered the greatest writer of French comedy, among Molière's best-known works are Le Misanthrope (The Misanthrope), L'École des femmes (The School for Wives), Tartuffe ou L'Imposteur, (Tartuffe or the Hypocrite), L'Avare (The Miser), Le Malade imaginaire (The Imaginary Invalid), and Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme (The Bourgeois Gentleman), and many other masterpieces of Commedia dell'arte.

Martin Greif writes that when Molière was in his late forties he fell in love with Michel Baron and brought him home to live with him. When the playwright's wife protested Baron moved out till Molière ordered him back. When his wife made an ultimatum that the playwright choose between her or Baron, Molière chose. Three years later in 1673, when Molière died, Michel Baron was at his side.

1929 – On this date in 1929 Martin Luther King, Jr was born in Atlanta, Georgia (d.1968). As an African American civil rights leader he spoke eloquently and stressed nonviolent methods to achieve equality. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. He was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 4, 1968. In 1983, the third Monday in January was designated a legal holiday in the U.S. to celebrate his birthday. King's message was a catalyst for many in the gay rights movement and continues to be an inspiration for the GLBT community today.

African American civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, who had studied Gandhi's teachings, counseled King to dedicate himself to the principles of non-violence, and served as King's main advisor and mentor throughout his early activism, and was the main organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. Rustin's open homosexuality, support of democratic socialism, and his former ties to the Communist Party USA caused many white and African-American leaders to demand King distance himself from Rustin. When Congressman Adam Clayton Powell threatened to accuse Rustin and King of having a homosexual affair. King gave in to Powell, and Rustin resigned from King's staff. Rustin was devastated by Powell's ruthlessness and by what he saw as King's betrayal, though he continued to advise King, and they rmained friends and allies until King's assassination.

Zak Spears Then

1965 – Zak Spears is an American gay pornographic film actor. Spears appeared in the feature film The Doom Generation (1995) using his real name, Khristofor Rossianov.

Spears was born Khristofor Lawl Rossianov in Chicago, but his German Catholic family also lived in Rochester and Minneapolis, Minnesota. He has two older brothers, one younger brother, and two older sisters. He came out to his family when he was 12, and at school when he was 16. He was constantly ridiculed with gay epithets as a result, and so he withdrew from all social circles.

After school, Spears worked as a diesel mechanic in Chicago and Minneapolis, and caught flak from the blue-collar men he worked with for being gay.

A friend took Spears to a bar called The Saloon in Minneapolis where Chi Chi LaRue was doing a show, and introduced them. Spears and LaRue became fast friends, and LaRue used him for a video called Handjobs 3 (1993). From there, Spears took off in the gay adult industry.In 1996 Spears retired from the gay adult industry after falling in love with Matthew Rush, who would also go on to star in gay adult films. Spears had hoped the relationship would be long-term, but after they broke up, he bulked up with a lot more muscle and returned to the industry in 2004.

Initially retiring from the industry in 1996, he made a return in 2004 in the film Zak Attack, sporting a dramatic image change which included a shaved head and a much bulkier build.

Zak Spears Now

Spears also appeared in the black comedy feature film Forgiving the Franklins (2006) under the name Khris Scaramanga. The film's director, Jay Floyd, said that having Spears in his film helped raise its profile. "I have one star in my movie," Floyd told The Los Angeles Times. "He just happens to be a porn star."

1973 – On this date Lance Loud came out on the PBS "series" An American Family. He bears the distinction of being the first person to come out on US national television.

1973 – The New York Division of Motor Vehicles banned "offensive" license plate combinations, including "DYK" and "FAG."

1974 – After Dark magazine announced it will no longer allow the word "gay" to be included in advertisements. Although popular with gay men for its art photographs of nude males (although no crotch was ever shown) at a time when there was no gay porn the magazine never admitted it was targeting a gay market. It used the subtle phrase, "The Magazine You Can Leave On Your Coffee Table When Your Mother Visits" to get the point across.

1987 – Michael Seater is a Canadian actor, director, screenwriter, and producer. From 2005 to 2009, he starred as the titular role in the Canadian sitcom Life with Derek. He later portrayed James Gillies in Murdoch Mysteries, from 2009 to 2017.

Aside from acting, Seater has ventured into filmmaking with the independent feature films People Hold On (2015) and Sadie's Last Days on Earth (2016).

Seater was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. He attended the Etobicoke School of the Arts and worked as a child actor.

Seater began acting in the late 1990s and appeared in the short films, direct-to-video films, made-for-television films, several television series.

Seater voiced the title character in the series Mattimeo: A Tale of Redwall, which aired in 2000, starred as Lucas Randall in the television series Strange Days at Blake Holsey High, which began airing in 2002 and ended in 2006, and had a role in the 2005 film The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio, which starred Julianne Moore. Seater then appeared in the recurring role of Owen on the series ReGenesis, which ended after its fourth season.

Seater garnered wider public recognition for his role as Derek Venturi on the popular Canadian family sitcom, Life with Derek, which was a hit with teens at the time. Seater starred on the series from its premiere in 2005 to its finale in 2009, for a total of 70 episodes and four seasons Before the show's cancellation, Seater had written a script for an episode of the fourth season with his brother, Graham.

In 2009, following the conclusion of Life with Derek, Seater played a character in the Degrassi movie Degrassi Goes Hollywood and in 2010 he starred in the CBC series 18 to Life. He also played the recurring role of murderer and criminal mastermind James Gillies in the Canadian series Murdoch Mysteries.

From 2012 to 2013, Seater also had a recurring role on the Canadian television series Bomb Girls] He also appeared in Bomb Girls: Facing the Enemy, a television film based on the series.Seater identifies as queer, and had input into the creation of his character James, a gay man, on The Wedding Planners.

2008 – Also on this date The Supreme Court of California struck down Proposition 8, which established state law allowing marriage only to occur between a man and a woman, making it possible for California to become the second state in the United States (after Massachusetts) to legalize same-sex marriage. The ruling would be overturned ten months later with the passage of Proposition 8. Stay tuned for further developments....

[cosmicanger]

“study the intifadas. peaceful protest will get you tortured or killed just the same as violent resistance will. our society is lawless and every institution is out to hurt you. you can't just repeat the same forms of nonviolent protest that worked before mass incarceration.”

[mariacallous]

On December 4, 2024, the Brookings Anti-Corruption, Democracy, and Security (ACDS) project observed its first anniversary with a webinar outlining the challenges facing democracy in 2025 and beyond, as well as strategies for building democratic resilience. Ambassador Norman Eisen (ret.), ACDS chair and senior fellow in Governance Studies, led this discussion with Asha Rangappa, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Senior Lecturer at the Jackson School of Global Affairs at Yale University and Ruth Ben-Ghiat, Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. Speakers discussed the challenges of disinformation and polarization, concerns about disenchantment with democracy, and the tactics being used by authoritarians worldwide to undermine democracy. 

Eisen and Rangappa kicked off the conversation by unpacking changes to the media ecosystem and discussing their impacts on the electorate. Rangappa framed the fragmentation of the media landscape as one in which Americans are living in “two separate realities,” noting that “You can’t debate policy if you’re not starting from the same set of facts.” Rangappa and Ben-Ghiat discussed the benefits and challenges of the increasing individualization of online content. These include the risks associated with rapid dissemination of unverified content as well as the advantages of greater accessibility of information (including that it can make censorship more difficult). 

The conversation then pivoted to the factors driving democratic backsliding around the world, with Ben-Ghiat discussing how democracy has arguably made people “lonely” and failed to deliver for all citizens. Rangappa shared an alternative perspective that loneliness threatens democracy, noting that social media has “exacerbated a lack of trust and left a vacuum of things that used to bind us together.” 

The speakers also discussed the tactics used by authoritarians, including the weaponization of corruption to deepen state capture and consolidate power. Ben-Ghiat explained how authoritarians often make deals with oligarchs and elites in exchange for rewards from the state. Rangappa spoke to the national security implications of corruption, outlining how the nomination of loyalists to positions like FBI director could potentially result in increased foreign influence, destruction of evidence, poor surveillance, and the sale of classified information.  

The speakers also outlined pathways to reinforce pillars of democracy. Ben–Ghiat expressed that people want positive change, as seen in countries like Chile, Belarus, Iran, Israel, and Serbia that since around 2019 have experienced their biggest nonviolent demonstrations in decades or ever. She highlighted the example of Poland and its turbulent history of democracy, one in which Poles weathered Nazi occupation, communism, and recently a far-right government. Notably, Poles successfully organized to counter democratic backsliding and elect a new government. Rangappa emphasized that a belief in agency among the public is important to build resilience against “authoritarian creep.” According to Rangappa, some of the most important actions members of the public can take now are to get out into the community, reconnect with each other, and have meaningful conversations.  

ACDS will continue to host timely discussions and publish analyses that seek to address U.S. and global democracy, rule of law, and anti-corruption challenges. To better understand how to respond to democratic backsliding, review the Brookings Democracy Playbook 2025, which provides actionable steps for democratic actors in the U.S. and globally to strengthen democratic institutions and resist illiberal forces. 

[rosszulorzott]

Reading Journal

After reading Why Civil Resistance Works, The Strategic Logic of Nonviolent Conflict by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan (2011), I'm now on to the update from 2021, Civil Resistance: What Everyone Needs to Know by Erica Chenoweth. This link is from the author's page and you will find many more resources there.

"Written by leading experts in their fields and with over 100 subjects to explore Oxford University Press's acclaimed What Everyone Needs to Know® series offers authoritative discussions of complex contemporary issues from gender to sustainability to robots in a lively question-and-answer format."

I'm now halfway through this book and I thought to share some quotes and commentary.

I have evolved from being a detached skeptic of civil resistance to becoming an invested participant in nonviolent movements. I now study the history and practice of resistance with much greater urgency, for the sake of my own democracy and in solidarity with human rights defenders around the world.

Although many cases don’t make headline news, the past decade—2010 to 2020—has seen more revolutionary nonviolent uprisings around the world than in any other period in recorded history. In fact, there have been more such campaigns in the first two decades of the twenty-first century than there were during the entire twentieth century. ... Even though nonviolent resistance is now ubiquitous as a leading strategy for creating change worldwide, the data also suggest that governments are defeating revolutionary nonviolent movements more often than in prior decades ... since 2016, far-right and neo-Nazi groups in Germany have been relying on the work of nonviolent resistance scholar Gene Sharp to better understand how to build and wield people power to pursue their racist and exclusionary aims. ... Just because people are protesting in the streets does not mean they are engaging in civil resistance. Spontaneous, improvised street actions that are not coordinated across various civic groups as part of a broader strategy rarely have staying power or capacity for long-term transformation. ... Few if any civil resistance campaigns have succeeded using protest alone. ... The first known feminist rebellion in North America was a sixteenth-century civil resistance campaign by Iroquois tribal women to end unregulated warfare within the Iroquois nation. Men exclusively controlled declarations of war, along with other political powers. Iroquois women coordinated a sex and childbearing strike, refused to harvest and prepare crops, and refused to produce moccasins necessary for war-making. Ultimately Iroquois women won the power to veto war declarations. ... Since World War II, very few civil resistance movements that excluded women at the front lines succeeded. ... No movements have failed after getting 10% of the nation’s population to be actively involved in their peak event. Most succeed after mobilizing 3.5%. ... successful movements do not necessarily need to turn mortal enemies into active supporters. Civil resistance is not about converting the opponent or melting the hearts of brutal dictators. It is about pulling their supports away in key moments—and taking away their options. ... Digital technology makes it easy to skip the critical steps of building relationships, developing ongoing coalitions, planning strategies, building alternative institutions, and preparing a population for a long struggle. With the convenience of social media, many movements may fall into the trap of organizing only in the short term, moving from one event to another, while failing to absorb their base of supporters into long-term movement adherents. Every movement faces the temptation to put tactics before strategy. Social media dramatically increase that temptation. ... Civil rights organizer Bernice Johnson Reagon once said that if you’re comfortable with everyone in your coalition, you’re not in a coalition. Maintaining a winning coalition is much more difficult than selecting a clear and concrete objective; it often requires skilled mediators and a movement-wide willingness to resolve conflict through some accepted process. ... we know from historical studies that people tend to be more willing to put themselves in harm’s way than to actively hurt others. ... even more important than tactical discipline may be narrative discipline

I have grouped some of these quotes by topic, because the book is written in a very detailed and recursive style, repeating key findings in different contexts and in varying depths. No matter what question the reader wants to explore first, they will find the answer substantiated by research and other background info. This also makes the book hard to read, more like a study course - but one we desperately need to take. Maybe when translating it we could create a shorter version from the essentials (localized for each region's own political environment) and referenced back to the full text. This way we could have a format better suited for general education and organization needs.

[dailyanarchistposts]

Footnotes - Part 1

I don't want to post the whole book without the footnotes; but it seems obnoxious to put the footnotes in a bunch of tags, so that's why I'm only tagging this with the book title.

[1] Sam Mbah and I.E. Igariway write that before colonial contact nearly all traditional African societies were “anarchies,” and they make a strong argument to this effect. The same could also be said of other continents. But as the author does not come from any of these societies, and since Western culture traditionally believes it has the right to represent other societies in self-serving ways, it is best to avoid such broad characterizations, while still endeavoring to learn from these examples.

[2] “The Really Really Free Market: Instituting the Gift Economy,” Rolling Thunder, No. 4 Spring 2007, p. 34.

[3] Robert K. Dentan, The Semai: A Nonviolent People of Malaya. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1979, p. 48.

[4] Christopher Boehm, “Egalitarian Behavior and Reverse Dominance Hierarchy,” Current Anthropology, Vol. 34, No. 3, June 1993.

[5] Amy Goodman, “Louisiana Official: Federal Gov’t Abandoned New Orleans,” Democracy Now, September 7, 2005. Fox News, CNN, and The New York Times all falsely reported murders and roving gangs of rapists in the Superdome, where refugees gathered during the storm. (Aaron Kinney, “Hurricane Horror Stories,” Salon.com)

[6] Jesse Walker (“Nightmare in New Orleans: Do disasters destroy social cooperation?” Reason Online, September 7, 2005) cites the studies of sociologist E.L. Quarantelli, who has found that “After the cataclysm, social bonds will strengthen, volunteerism will explode, violence will be rare...”

[7] Roger M. Keesing, Andrew J. Strathern, Cultural Anthropology: A Contemporary Perspective, 3rd Edition, New York: Harcourt Brace & Company, 1998, p.83.

[8] Judith Van Allen “Sitting On a Man”: Colonialism and the Lost Political Institutions of Igbo Women.” Canadian Journal of African Studies. Vol. ii, 1972, pp. 211–219.

[9] Johan M.G. van der Dennen, “Ritualized ‘Primitive’ Warfare and Rituals in War: Phenocopy, Homology, or...?” rechten.eldoc.ub.rug.nl Among other examples, van der Dennen cites the New Guinea highlanders, among whom warring bands would face off, yell insults, and shoot arrows that did not have feathers, and thus could not be aimed, while another band on the sidelines would yell that it was wrong for brothers to fight, and attempt to calm the situation before blood was shed. The original source for this account is Rappaport, R.A. (1968), Pigs for the Ancestors: Ritual in the Ecology of a New Guinea People. New Haven: Yale University Press.

[10] “The Aims and Means of the Catholic Worker,” The Catholic Worker, May 2008.

[11] Graham Kemp and Douglas P. Fry (eds.), Keeping the Peace: Conflict Resolution and Peaceful Societies around the World, New York: Routledge, 2004. Semai murder rate, p. 191, other murder rates p. 149. The low Norwegian murder rate shows that industrial societies can also be peaceful. It should be noted that Norway has one of the lowest wealth gaps of any capitalist country, and also a low reliance on police and prisons. The majority of civil disputes and many criminal cases in Norway are settled through mediation (p. 163).

[12] Robert K. Dentan, The Semai: A Nonviolent People of Malaya. New York: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1979, p. 59.

[13] Dmitri M. Bondarenko and Andrey V. Korotayev, Civilizational Models of Politogenesis, Moscow: Russian Academy of Sciences, 2000.

[14] Harold Barclay, People Without Government: An Anthropology of Anarchy, London: Kahn and Averill, 1982, p. 98.

[15] Christopher Boehm, “Egalitarian Behavior and Reverse Dominance Hierarchy,” Current Anthropology, Vol. 34, No. 3, June 1993.

[16] The victories of the movement and the failure of the IMF and World Bank are argued by David Graeber in “The Shock of Victory,” Rolling Thunder no. 5, Spring 2008.

[17] The paragraphs regarding the Hill People and Southeast Asia are based on James C. Scott, “Civilizations Can’t Climb Hills: A Political History of Statelessness in Southeast Asia,” lecture at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, February 2, 2005.

[18] Alan MacSimoin, “The Korean Anarchist Movement,” a talk in Dublin, September 1991. MacSimoin references Ha Ki-Rak, A History of the Korean Anarchist Movement, 1986.

[19] Sam Dolgoff, The Anarchist Collectives, New York: Free Life Editions, 1974, p. 73.

[20] Ditto, p. 73. The statistic on Graus comes from p. 140.

[21] Gaston Leval, Collectives in the Spanish Revolution, London: Freedom Press, 1975, pp. 206–207.

[22] Sam Dolgoff, The Anarchist Collectives, New York: Free Life Editions, 1974, p. 113.

[23] The criticisms of the this and the following paragraphs are based on an interview with Marcello, “Criticisms of the MST,” February 17, 2009, Barcelona.

[24] Wikipedia, “Asamblea Popular de los Pueblos de Oaxaca,” [viewed November 6, 2006]

[25] Diana Denham and C.A.S.A. Collective (eds.), Teaching Rebellion: Stories from the Grassroots Mobilization in Oaxaca, Oakland: PM Press, 2008, interview with Marcos.

[26] Ditto, interview with Adán.

[27] Melford E. Spiro, Kibbutz: Venture in Utopia, New York: Schocken Books, 1963, pp. 90–91.

[28] Robert Fernea, “Putting a Stone in the Middle: the Nubians of Northern Africa,” in Graham Kemp and Douglas P. Fry (eds.), Keeping the Peace: Conflict Resolution and Peaceful Societies around the World, New York: Routledge, 2004, p. 111.

[29] Alice Schlegel, “Contentious But Not Violent: The Hopi of Northern Arizona” in Graham Kemp and Douglas P. Fry (eds.), Keeping the Peace: Conflict Resolution and Peaceful Societies around the World, New York: Routledge, 2004.

[30] Melford E. Spiro, Kibbutz: Venture in Utopia, New York: Schocken Books, 1963, pp. 83–85.

[31] Gemma Aguilar, “Els okupes fan la feina que oblida el Districte,” Avui, Saturday 15 December 2007, p. 43.

[32] Natasha Gordon and Paul Chatterton, Taking Back Control: A Journey through Argentina’s Popular Uprising, Leeds (UK): University of Leeds, 2004, p. 45.

[33] William Foote Whyte and Kathleen King Whyte, Making Mondragon: The Growth and Dynamics of the Worker Cooperative Complex, Ithaca, New York: ILR Press, 1988, p. 5.

[34] Malcolm Gladwell, The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference. New York: Little, Brown, and Company, 2002, pp. 183–187.

[35] Michael Albert, Parecon: Life After Capitalism, New York: Verso, 2003, pp. 104–105.

[36] Diana Denham and C.A.S.A. Collective (eds.), Teaching Rebellion: Stories from the Grassroots Mobilization in Oaxaca, Oakland: PM Press, 2008, interview with Tonia.

[37] Ditto, interview with Francisco.

[38] Cahal Milmo, “On the Barricades: Trouble in a Hippie Paradise,” The Independent, May 31, 2007.

[39] Technically, human elders provide a reproductive function because they store obscure types of information like how to survive natural disasters that only occur once every several generations, and they can also serve to increase social cohesion by increasing the amount of living relations within the community — for example the number of people with the same grandparents is much larger than the number of people with the same parents. However, these survival benefits are not immediately obvious and there is no evidence of any human society making such calculations when deciding whether or not to feed their toothless grannies. In other words, the fact that we avail ourselves of the benefits of the elderly is a reflection of our habitual social generosity.

[40] Gaston Leval, Collectives in the Spanish Revolution, London: Freedom Press, 1975, p. 270.

[41] Neille Ilel, “A Healthy Dose of Anarchy: After Katrina, nontraditional, decentralized relief steps in where big government and big charity failed,” Reason Magazine, December 2006.

[42] Albany Free School website (viewed November 24, 2006) www.albanyfreeschool.com

[43] Natasha Gordon and Paul Chatterton, Taking Back Control: A Journey through Argentina’s Popular Uprising, Leeds (UK): University of Leeds, 2004, pp. 43–44.

[44] See chapter 5 in Uri Gordon, Anarchy Alive! Anti-authoritarian Politics from Practice to Theory, London: Pluto Press, 2008.

[45] The description of the New Guinea highlanders in Jared Diamond’s book (Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed, New York, Viking, 2005), particularly the portrayal of their curiosity, wit, and humanity, does a great service to dispelling the lingering imagery of so-called primitive peoples as grunting apes or noble savages.

[46] “Wikipedia survives research test,” BBC News 15 December 2005 news.bbc.co.uk

[47] “Editorial administration, oversight and management” Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org

[48] Patrick Fleuret, “The Social Organization of Water Control in the Taita Hills, Kenya,” American Ethnologist, Vol. 12, 1985.

[49] Sam Dolgoff, The Anarchist Collectives, New York: Free Life Editions, 1974, p. 66.

[50] Ditto, p. 88.

[51] All the quotes and statistics in the paragraph come from Sam Dolgoff, The Anarchist Collectives, New York: Free Life Editions, 1974, pp. 88–92.

[52] Ditto, pp. 75–76

[53] George Katsiaficas, The Subversion of Politics: European Autonomous Social Movements and the Decolonization of Everyday Life. Oakland: AK Press, 2006, pp. 84–85

[54] The Stonehenge Free Festivals, 1972–1985. www.ukrockfestivals.com Viewed 8 May 2008.

[55] The Curious George Brigade, Anarchy In the Age of Dinosaurs, CrimethInc. 2003, pp. 106–120. The statistic from Ghana appears on page 115.

[56] Emily Achtenberg, “Community Organizing and Rebellion: Neighborhood Councils in El Alto, Bolivia,” Progressive Planning, No.172, Summer 2007.

[57] Although the author of this piece chooses the term government, the underlying concept should not be given parity with what in Western society is considered to be government. In the ayllu tradition, leadership is not a privileged social position or a position of command, but a form of “community service.”

[58] Emily Achtenberg, “Community Organizing and Rebellion: Neighborhood Councils in El Alto, Bolivia,” Progressive Planning, No.172, Summer 2007.

[59] All the quotes on Symphony Way come from Daria Zelenova, “Anti-Eviction Struggle of the Squatters Communities in Contemporary South Africa,” paper presented at the conference “Hierarchy and Power in the History of Civilizations,” at the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, June 2009.

[60] Oxfam America, “Havana’s Green Revelation,” www.oxfamamerica.org [viewed December 5, 2005]

[61] Sam Dolgoff, The Anarchist Collectives, New York: Free Life Editions, 1974, pp. 163–164.

[62] This theory for the fate of Easter Island is convincingly argued in Jared Diamond, Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed, New York, Viking, 2005.

[63] Eric Alden Smith, Mark Wishnie, “Conservation and Subsistence in Small-Scale Societies,” Annual Review of Anthropology, Vol. 29, 2000, pp. 493–524. “As population density and political centralization increases, communities may exceed the size and homogeneity needed for endogenous systems of communal management” (p. 505). The authors also pointed out that colonial and postcolonial interference ended many systems of communal resource management. Bonnie Anna Nardi, “Modes of Explanation in Anthropological Population Theory: Biological Determinism vs. Self-Regulation in Studies of Population Growth in Third World Countries,” American Anthropologist, vol. 83, 1981. Nardi points out that as decision-making, society, and identity go from small-scale to a national scale, fertility control loses its effectiveness (p. 40).

[64] Bruce Stewart, quoted in Derrick Jensen, A Language Older Than Words, White River Junction, Vermont: Chelsea Green Publishing Company, 2000, p.162.

[65] Jared Diamond, Collapse: how societies choose to fail or succeed, New York: Viking, 2005, pp. 292–293

[66] For example, the United States and Western Europe, responsible for most of the world’s greenhouse gases, are currently forcing hundreds of millions of people to die every year rather than curtailing their car cultures and reducing their emissions.

[67] The ten percent figure and mention of the two attacks in Germany come from Nathaniel C. Nash, “Oil Companies Face Boycott Over Sinking of Rig,” The New York Times, June 17, 1995.

[68] Jared Diamond, Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed, New York: Viking, 2005, p. 277.

[69] H. Van Der Linden, “Een Nieuwe Overheidsinstelling: Het Waterschap circa 1100–1400” in D.P. Blok, Algemene Geschiednis der Nederlanden, deel III. Haarlem: Fibula van Dishoeck, 1982, p. 64. Author’s translation.

[70] This analysis is well documented by Kristian Williams in Our Enemies in Blue. Brooklyn: Soft Skull Press, 2004.

[71] In 2005, 5,734 workers were killed by traumatic injury on the job, and an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 died from occupational diseases, according to the AFL-CIO “Facts About Worker Safety and Health 2007.” www.aflcio.org Of all the killings of workers by employer negligence between 1982 and 2002, fewer than 2000 were investigated by the government, and of these only 81 resulted in convictions and only 16 resulted in jailtime, though the maximum allowed sentence was six months, according to David Barstow, “U.S. Rarely Seeks Charges for Deaths in Workplace,” New York Times, December 22, 2003.

[72] These are widely available statistics from US Census bureau, Justice Department, independent researchers, Human Rights Watch, and other organizations. They can be found, for example, on drugwarfacts.org [viewed 30 December, 2009].

[73] Wikipedia “Seattle General Strike of 1919,” en.wikipedia.org [viewed 21 June 2007]. Print sources cited in this article include Jeremy Brecher, Strike! Revised Edition. South End Press, 1997; and Howard Zinn, A People’s History of the United States, Perrenial Classics Edition, 1999.

[74] Diana Denham and C.A.S.A. Collective (eds.), Teaching Rebellion: Stories from the Grassroots Mobilization in Oaxaca, Oakland: PM Press, 2008, interview with Cuatli.

[75] Alan Howard, “Restraint and Ritual Apology: the Rotumans of the South Pacific,” in Graham Kemp and Douglas P. Fry (eds.), Keeping the Peace: Conflict Resolution and Peaceful Societies around the World, New York: Routledge, 2004, p. 42.

[76] Both observer quotes from Jamie Bissonette, When the Prisoners Ran Walpole: a true story in the movement for prison abolition, Cambridge: South End Press, 2008, p. 160.

[77] One can’t help but compare this to the British spreading opium in China or the US government spreading whiskey among indigenous people and, later, heroin in ghettos.

[78] Natasha Gordon and Paul Chatterton, Taking Back Control: A Journey through Argentina’s Popular Uprising, Leeds (UK): University of Leeds, 2004, pp. 66–68.

[79] Graham Kemp and Douglas P. Fry (eds.), Keeping the Peace: Conflict Resolution and Peaceful Societies around the World, New York: Routledge, 2004, pp. 73–79. The cross-cultural study is M.H. Ross, The Culture of Conflict, New Haven: Yale University Press, 1993.

[sketching-shark]

what do you think about religion, god and stuff? what do you think about people who believes on these things? I don't want to offend or smth, I just want to know your opinion about it, also I like your blog!

You're not being offense at all anon, and glad you're enjoying you're time at sketching shark dot hell.

That said, I am going to begin this ask with a somewhat confused El Am A Oh on account of the fact that religion and the concept of God, throughout both human history and in the contemporary work, take of a dizzying amount of beliefs, creeds, rituals, loves, hates, and faiths. As such, I feel that my opinion on God, religion, and religious practitioners is very context specific.

I do very much enjoy learning about different belief systems and the mythologies that have formed, especially since they are often the foundation for how a society structures itself. At the same time, I've often been left feeling pretty conflicted if not downright hatefully cynical about religion due to the extent to which people have used it and its structures to hide or even to justify a obscene number of atrocities. I do for example feel great admiration for the Catholic priests who genuinely see their calling as a way to promote actual peace and nonviolence, as exemplified by the priests who actively protested the Vietnam War by destroying draft records. At the same time, however, I also feel deep hatred for the Catholic church for the extent to which it covered up its priests sexually abusing children. And incorporating some other religions and histories that personally hit close to home, I am horrified that the Mexica had a religion that justified and even demanded constant warfare and human sacrifice. I'm even more horrified that the Conquistadors and later colonizers used their Catholicism to justify the murders and tortures they inflicted on the people they subjugated long after the fall of the Mexica empire.

So yes, history and contemporary life is rife with people using religion as the basis to do all kinds of genuinely good things, but also with people using it as an excuse to be absolute monsters to their fellow men. And even while I can and have definitely found great meaning in some of the ways religion has offered to contemplate the divine, I've come to feel pretty leery about many organized religions due to the sheer amount of abuses and mass death they've often permitted.

I will say that the element I've come to appreciate the most from my personal encounters with and studies of different religions is how the metaphorical reading of mythology can at times mesh pretty well with the more scientific sense of material reality--I especially like this in terms of the contemporary growing sense about the universe being animate--as well as the sense of necessary humility religion can bestow. And here I'm not talking about the "submit to the will of God (i.e. human religious human authorities)" that way too many religious institutions push, but more in the way that religion can give space to consider this brutal and beautiful creation in its totality that often seem too much for the human mind to fully grasp or fully handle, i.e. how you might think about God. For me at least being able to contemplate how vast and often unknowable creation/God is has been a important element in helping me grow as a person, as well as to help keep down my sometimes overinflated, all too human ego haha.

[thetreehousenews]

TREE HOUSE NEWS 🏡

Land of Whispering Pines 🌲

Good morning! I pray that you be well, at peace, provided for, & blessed 🙏🌅

Well, it's one of those kind of, eh, eh days, chilly, cloudy with a little teensy weensy bit of intermittent sun. Well, ruffle me feathers! I didn't get much of a chance to sit in my greenspace for very long before I decided it was just a little too cool to sit comfortably with my coffee without a coat, and by then, nature called, and that was the end of the green space morning interlude. 😝

Back here in the Newsroom after fetching my second cup of coffee ☕ (I only have two a day), but I savor them better than any of the finest French wines on the market. Also, a little spiff of weed, 🦯 out in my green space after supper, well, (it's better than a Cuban Cigar!) A cigar tokin' Fairy? 🧚‍♀️ Then I also savor my tea in the evening. 🫖

TODAY'S DISCUSSION:

The 70's: a Decade of Innovation and Invention

- Google Search -

The 1970s were a decade of significant technological innovation, particularly in computing, communication, and consumer products. This era saw the development of the microprocessor, floppy disks, early personal computers, and cell phones, which paved the way for the digital revolution we know today.

It was Expo 67 in Montreal that really opened my mind to the new developing technologies; it seemed the technology, especially in electronics, was changing overnight. Can you imagine if we still had that zeal and innovation and encouragement from our federal government, where we would be in just a few decades, instead of all this idiocy of the hate, distrust, doom, amorality, and destructive people we find ourselves ensconced in today?

The Hippies had it RIGHT all along, 🌺 FLOWER POWER, 🌺 PEACE! ☮️ the power of Love for one Another. ❤️

- Google Search -

Hippies: were a countercultural movement that rejected mainstream values and institutions in the 1960s. They stood for peace, love, and a rejection of materialism and conformity. They advocated for nonviolence, openness, and tolerance, and often practiced communal living, free love, and embraced Eastern philosophies like Buddhism and Hinduism.

If you wish to study more about the Hippie culture, there is plenty of information on Google Search. It would take a book to cover the history and stories that took place.

Does this sound like today? I lived through those days, I believe those days were like a shiny gem of promise and progress, the most promising there ever was for an opportunity for mankind to get past all pettyness like, anywhere from petty larceny to hate, war, jealousy, greed, and man's inhumanity toward man, population control, delusional schizophrenia, to extinction of the species.

If we could only isolate that garbage to the knuckle-draggers species, certainly not of the same genome as that of humans, those that DO NOT WANT TO EVOLVE PAST LIVING IN CAVES, deport them to Mars. They can debate with each other all they want as to whose hairy butt they wish to pick the fleas from next. Speaking of fleas, I need to take a shower 🌧 after the news. 📰

I PRAY CANADA BECOMES A NATION BUILDER. 🍁 Just as in G-d we trust, We, CANADIANS, will always be the PEACE KEEPERS and we should be damned proud of that. ☮️ Trust The Peace Keepers. ☮️ 🍁

BREAKING NEWS:

Supreme Court hears historic arguments on birthright citizenship

What you need to know:

• High-stakes hearing: The Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments this morning in a case about the enforcement of President Donald Trump’s birthright citizenship order. The main question for the justices is whether lower courts overstepped their authority by blocking that January 20 order on a nationwide basis.

• Framing the debate:

• What is birthright citizenship:

• Listen to live audio:

3 min ago:

Justice Thomas asks for 'historical analogues' of universal injunctions

Justice Clarence Thomas, the most senior member of the court, has the first question at Thursday’s arguments, asking Solicitor General John Sauer about the “origins” of universal injunctions.

The question fits into his interest across myriad cases in using history and tradition to decide legal questions.

Querying about the “historical analogues,” Thomas asked Sauer about an example President Donald Trump’s opponents say show that universal injunctions are rooted in history. Sauer countered that the example, known as a bill of peace, was more analogous to class action lawsuits.

12 min ago:

Trump’s newly confirmed Solicitor General D. John Sauer returns to the Supreme Court

Read More:

Updated 10:25 AM EDT, Thu May 15, 2025 - CNN -

Exclusive: FEMA is “not ready” for hurricane season, internal agency review shows

Hurricane preparations at Federal Emergency Management Agency have slowed to a crawl, and the disaster relief agency “is not ready” for the June 1 start to the season, according to an internal agency review obtained by -CNN-

Prepared at the direction of new acting Administrator David Richardson as part of a problem-solving exercise at FEMA, the document outlines the agency’s struggles in recent months and raises a number of red flags ahead of hurricane season, including a general uncertainty around its mission, lack of coordination with states and other federal agencies, low morale and new red tape that will likely slow responses.

“As FEMA transforms to a smaller footprint, the intent for this hurricane season is not well understood,” the document states. “Thus FEMA is not ready.”

President Donald Trump and his allies have criticized FEMA for months as ineffective and unnecessary...

Published 8:37 AM EDT, Thu May 15, 2025 - CNN -

Zelensky calls Russian team in Turkey ‘phony’ as Putin skips peace talks

Here is how Zelensky explained sending delegation to Istanbul despite Putin's no-show

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday that he decided to send a top-level delegation to Istanbul even though Russia sent a lower-level team there “out of respect” for US President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

“Despite the relatively low level of the Russian delegation, out of respect for President Trump, out of respect for the high level of the Turkish delegation and for President Erdogan, we still want to try to take at least the first steps towards a ceasefire, so I have decided to send our delegation to Istanbul now,” Zelensky said.

“Not everyone will be there, of course, the head of the Security Service and the Chief of the General Staff will not be there. But the delegation will be led by the Minister of Defense. Despite the fact that his counterpart will not be there,” the Ukrainian leader said...

Updated 10:46 AM EDT, Thu May 15, 2025 - CNN -

CANADIAN NEWS:

Tariffs hitting shoppers in Canada and U.S., with some prices set to rise at Loblaw stores, Walmart

Loblaw has been aggressive in signalling which products are affected by tariffs

A trip to the store is about to become more expensive for shoppers on both sides of the 49th parallel, as pre-tariff inventory runs out at Loblaw stores and Walmart is set to raise prices in the U.S.

Loblaw Cos. Ltd. chief executive Per Bank said Wednesday in a LinkedIn post that the number of tariff-hit products at the grocery store could soon spike, as products brought into Canada before the trade war began are bought up from store shelves, which means prices for some items will go up, too.

Meanwhile, Walmart said it must raise prices in U.S. stores due to higher costs from tariffs implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump, after announcing its first-quarter profit slipped...

Posted: May 15, 2025 10:50 AM EDT | Last Updated: 8 minutes ago

- CBC -

Canada's military plans to be in the Arctic 'on a near permanent basis,' says commander

Expanding northern training program to 10 months brings opportunity to rally support from NATO allies

Canada intends to expand its military training regime in the Arctic, deploying a variety of forces in the region for up to 10 months a year, starting this year, the military's operations commander says.

Lt.-Gen. Steve Boivin says the military's signature Far North exercise — Operation Nanook — will see additional elements created, resulting in a greater, consistent presence in a region that is increasingly the focus of geopolitical rivalry.

The plan, says one defence expert, is an unprecedented opportunity for the Liberal government to not only demonstrate Canadian sovereignty in the Arctic, but to rally NATO allies behind the country.

Posted: May 15, 2025 4:00 AM EDT | Last Updated: 7 hours ago

- CBC -

My Note: This will also mean more recruits to fill the new bases that they will set up in the Arctic, which also means civilian construction jobs, which should help to alleviate some of the problems with the unemployment numbers.

NATURE'S SOUNDS AND MUSIC:

💝~Mother Gaia Love Healing And Nurturing The Inner Child~💝

[vnatureresorts]

Resorts with Best Indoor & Outdoor Games for day outing in Kanakapura 

Introduction  

Day Outing Resorts in Kanakapura  If you're yearning for a ruin from the everyday grind and looking for a nonviolent spoil now not too far from the metropolis, look no further than V Nature Resorts. Only a brief force from Bangalore, this hidden gem offers the precise place for a rejuvenating day experience amidst lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and serene vibes. 

An afternoon of Serenity and adventure 

VNR isn't always your ordinary resort—it’s an area where nature meets comfort. Nestled amidst the verdant backdrop of Kanakapura's geographical region, VNR offers traffic a chance to enjoy the tranquility of rural Karnataka while enjoying modern amenities and thoughtfully curated activities. Whether you are making plans for a family day outing in Kanakapura, a corporate group time-out, a school picnic, or just a spontaneous weekend getaway with friends, VNR caters to all. 

Sports That carry humans collectively 

What makes an afternoon trip memorable? At VNR, it's the mixture of fun, journey, and rest. The resort gives a huge variety of outdoor and indoor games that ensure all of us—from children to adults—stay entertained. Try your hand at volleyball, cricket, or badminton, or bounce into the rain dance to cool off with a few energetic tunes in the history. For the more adventurous, discover nature trails, cross on a short trek, or revel in a few light journey sports set up in the belongings. 

The open areas and scenic beauty make it a photographer's paradise, and in case you're a nature lover, you’ll love recognizing birds or surely soaking within the peaceful ecosystem. 

Comfortable amenities for a great Day 

Day visitors at VNR are welcomed with clean drinks and treated to scrumptious local-style buffet meals—from breakfast to lunch and night snacks. The food is freshly prepared and served in a hygienic, secure eating region that enhances the rustic attraction of the resort. 

The resort additionally offers easy-converting rooms, nicely maintained rest areas, and seating zones to just loosen up, study an e-book, or catch up with cherished ones underneath the color of tall trees. 

Ideal for All activities 

Whether or not you’re planning a celebration, a company off-site online, or your family get-together, VNR gives tailor-made programs for day outings. The body of workers is courteous, professional, and continually ready to assist in preparing activities or personalizing your day based totally on the institution’s wishes. 

Nature, Closeness, and convenience 

What surely sets V Nature Resorts aside is its location. Surrounded by using hills, farms, and freshwater lakes, it offers you the niceness of Kanakapura’s natural allure without the problem of lengthy travel. Simply 90 minutes from Bangalore, it is the perfect quick getaway. 

V Nature Resorts, Kanakapura—where your ideal day outing resorts in Kanakapura begins and ends with nature. 

Plan your next day trip with V Nature Resorts and go back domestic with a coronary heart complete of pleasure, laughter, and unforgettable recollections. 

[nursingwriter]

Evidence-Based Models for Substance Abuse Treatment in the Criminal Justice System The United States currently incarcerates a higher percentage of its citizens than any other industrialized nation in the world. A majority of Americans who are incarcerated were taking drugs or drinking alcohol, or both, during the commission of their crimes, or were actively engaged in substance-abusing behaviors that resulted in their involvement with the criminal justice system. The costs that are associated with incarcerating these millions of convicts each year are staggering, making the need for cost-effective interventions that can help divert substance-abusing nonviolent offenders from the penal system into other, less expensive community-based alternatives. Likewise, from a strictly pragmatic perspective, treating existing substance abuse among prison populations using methods with proven efficacy just makes good business sense. To this end, this paper compares and contrasts two evidence-based substance abuse treatment models that have demonstrated efficacy in the criminal justice system. A discussion concerning how this model best fits in a given agency with respect to economic, human resource, therapist expertise, and other relevant factors is followed by a summary of the research and important findings in the conclusion. Review and Discussion Today, there are almost eight million Americans in various correctional systems, and these populations have inordinately high rates of chronic medical and mental health issues, infections, sexually transmitted diseases, as well as substantial substance abuse disorders (Gondles, 2010). According to Grella, Hser, Teruya and Evans (2005), there has been a growing consensus among healthcare providers in recent years concerning the need to improve the quality and provide for better accountability by using evidence-based treatment interventions for substance abuse problems. In this regard, Gondles emphasizes that the criminal justice system has "a responsibility to society and to offenders to continue developing and evaluating efficient, effective, and cost-conscience methods of delivering valid, evidence-based treatment and programs" (2010, p. 6). In addition, Gondles suggests that, "We also have a legal, ethical and moral obligation to return offenders to the community in a reasonable state of health to facilitate their successful reentry" (2010, p. 6). Some salient examples of efforts by the healthcare community to develop such guidelines include: 1. The principles of drug abuse treatment developed by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) identify a core set of empirically based interventions that can be used to guide clinical practice (Grella et al., 2005, p. 469). 2. Likewise, Hon (2003) reports that, "The active ingredients of effective treatment for alcohol problems have been distilled from several generations of research into the treatment of alcohol abuse and dependence" (2003, p. 2). 3. Finally, findings from treatment effectiveness research have provided the foundation for a set of clinical practice guidelines, including the American Society of Addiction Medicine's Principles of Addiction Medicine (Grella et al., 2005, p. 470). Clearly, then, the use of evidence-based treatment regimens for substance abusing populations in general and prison populations in particular represents a timely and valuable enterprise, and two such evidence-based treatment regimens that have demonstrated efficacy with substance-abusing behaviors, ancillary pharmacological support and monitoring programs, are described further below. Ancillary Pharmacological Support Clinical studies have shown time and again that treatment regimens for substance abuse are more effective when used in conjunction with pharmacological support. These are especially important issues with respect to prison populations where the transition back into society may require ongoing treatment and monitoring. Prison populations in particular can benefit from treatment programs using medications such as methadone for alcoholism and buprenorphine for heroin addiction (Principles of Drug Abuse Treatment for Criminal Justice Populations, 2011). According to Byrne, Lander and Ferris (2009), "Buprenorphine/naloxone is an evidence-based pharmacological treatment that offers a new and different option for treatment of opioid dependence. This medication blocks the effects of other opioids and is difficult to abuse" (p. 54). In addition, the National Institute on Drug Abuse emphasizes that, "Effective use of medications can also be instrumental in enabling people with co-occurring mental health problems to function successfully in society. Behavioral strategies can increase adherence to medication regimens" (Principles of Drug Abuse Treatment for Criminal Justice Populations, 2011, para. 2). This evidence-based treatment regimen is well suited for the purposes of this author's agency where budgets have been slashed and the need for cost-effective treatments has become highly pronounced. Both methadone and buprenorphine/naloxone have proven efficacy in the general population and there is a growing body of evidence concerning their effectiveness in prison populations as well (Byrne et al., 2009). Moreover, these drugs are inexpensive and widely available (Byrne et al., 2009). It should be noted, though, that there are clinical guidelines concerning the use of these drugs that may require specialized training for the agency's current in-house clinical staff to ensure appropriate oversight because the majority of these offenders are referred to community-based healthcare resources for these services. The need to ensure appropriate oversight of pharmacological treatments also extends to monitor substance-abuse offenders following their release into the community, and these issues are discussed further below. Monitoring Programs The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that one of the most important features of any intervention for substance abusers in prison populations is to ensure a mechanism is in place to monitor the effectiveness of any protocol on an ongoing basis through drug testing to identify opportunities for improvement and areas that require specific focus. The Institute also stresses that there is no "magic bullet" available for treating substance-abusing offenders, and successful outcomes require ongoing monitoring to ensure offenders remain drug and alcohol free. The high levels of recidivism that have been experienced in recent years with this population indicates that this is an especially important area that demands active participation by the law enforcement community in partnership with community-based resources as well as the offenders themselves (of course). In this regard, The National Institute on Drug Abuse also notes that: 1. Effective drug abuse treatment engages participants in a therapeutic process, retains them in treatment for an appropriate length of time, and helps them learn to maintain abstinence over time; 2. Multiple episodes of treatment may be required; and, 3. Outcomes for drug abusing offenders in the community can be improved by monitoring drug use and by encouraging continued participation in treatment (Principles of Drug Abuse Treatment for Criminal Justice Populations, 2011, para. 3). Conclusion The research showed that evidence-based treatment protocols for substance abuse have gained in popularity in recent years because of their proven effectiveness. Two such evidence-based treatment protocols included ancillary pharmacological support and ongoing monitoring programs with the former offering some cost advantages over the latter. Although the need for ongoing monitoring on interventions is an absolutely necessary ingredient for success, this area requires significant investments of time and resources. Therefore, it is important to ensure that evidence-based treatment protocols are implemented and administered in an efficient fashion following best industry practices and guidelines. References Byrne, M.H., Lander, L. & Ferris, M. (2009). The changing face of opioid addiction: Prescription pain pill dependence and treatment. Health and Social Work, 34(1), 53-55. Gondles, E.F. (2010, October). Investing in healthy communities. Corrections Today, 71(5), 6. Grella, C.E., Hser, Y-I, Teruya, C. & Evans, E. (2005). How can research-based findings be used to improve practice? Perspectives from participants in a statewide outcomes monitoring study. Journal of Drug Issues, 35(3), 469-470. Principles of drug abuse treatment for criminal justice populations. (2011). The National Institute on Drug Abuse. Retrieved from http://www.nida.nih.gov/podat_cj/principles/. Read the full article

[ricardotomasz]

Such is life! Behold, a new Post published on Greater And Grander about 13 Essential Reads to Prepare for a Second Trump Term: Empower Your Advocacy with Greater & Grander Media

See into my soul, as a new Post has been published on https://greaterandgrander.com/13-essential-reads-to-prepare-for-a-second-trump-term-empower-your-advocacy-with-greater-grander-media/

13 Essential Reads to Prepare for a Second Trump Term: Empower Your Advocacy with Greater & Grander Media

With Donald Trump's re-election, individuals and organizations are seeking effective ways to advocate for their causes, prepare for potential challenges, and navigate an uncertain political landscape. As we brace for what may come, it’s essential to equip ourselves with knowledge, strategies, and the right tools to make our voices heard. Here are 13 impactful resources to read in preparation for a potential second Trump term, curated especially for clients and individuals who need compelling visual content to amplify their advocacy efforts.

1. DNC Ballot Cure Link

Empowering Voters to Make Their Voices Count

Engaging in ballot curing is a crucial step in safeguarding democracy, especially in states where a few votes can sway the results. This link provides access to volunteer opportunities to help voters fix issues with their ballots, ensuring every vote counts. Empowering voters through visuals that explain the ballot curing process can make a huge impact during election seasons.

DNC Balot Cure Link - https://www.mobilize.us/dncvopro/event/738494/

2. Beautiful Trouble Toolbox

Turning Creative Resistance into Action

Beautiful Trouble is a goldmine for activists, filled with tactical tips, case studies, and strategic frameworks for non-violent resistance. The toolbox offers compelling examples of how to use art, memes, and visuals to disrupt the status quo. It’s an excellent resource for those looking to combine creativity with impactful messaging.

Beautiful Trouble - https://beautifultrouble.org/toolbox/

3. Self-Liberation Toolkit

Strategies for Personal and Collective Liberation

This toolkit, developed by the Albert Einstein Institution, provides practical guidance on resisting oppression. It offers strategic advice for self-liberation, making it ideal for those in search of empowerment strategies that can be turned into engaging, educational visuals.

Self-Liberation Toolkit - https://www.aeinstein.org/self-liberation-toolkit

4. On Tyranny

A Timely Guide to Defending Democracy

Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny explores 20 lessons from the 20th century to combat authoritarianism today. This short but potent book offers timeless wisdom that can inspire powerful visual campaigns, helping advocates communicate the importance of resisting tyranny.

On Tyranny - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-3116660/page-1/3116660

5. This Is An Uprising

Building Movements for Change

Mark Engler’s This Is An Uprising dives into the mechanics of nonviolent revolution. It explores how strategic civil resistance can topple oppressive regimes, making it a must-read for those interested in visual storytelling that champions social movements.

This is An Uprising - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-3238867/page-1/3238867

6. Why Civil Resistance Works

The Power of Nonviolent Movements

Erica Chenoweth and Maria Stephan’s research reveals that nonviolent resistance is twice as effective as armed struggle. Highlighting real-world case studies, this book can inspire visuals that demonstrate the efficacy of peaceful protest.

Why Civil Resistance Works - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-4595510/page-1/4595510

7. Civil Resistance: What Everyone Needs to Know

A Comprehensive Guide to Nonviolent Struggle

This book answers key questions about the theory and practice of civil resistance, making it an essential read for anyone planning advocacy campaigns. Its insights can inform the creation of infographics and educational content to spread awareness.

Civil Resistance - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-8795438/page-1/8795438

8. Dark Money

Exposing the Hidden Power of Wealth in Politics

Jane Mayer’s Dark Money delves into how wealthy elites use their fortunes to shape American politics. The shocking revelations can fuel powerful, thought-provoking content for campaigns aimed at fighting corruption and promoting transparency.

Dark Money (this one will make you angry) - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-2483730/page-1/2483730

9. Homage to Catalonia

A Personal Account of Civil War and Resistance

George Orwell’s classic account of his experiences during the Spanish Civil War is a vivid exploration of the fight against fascism. The book’s themes of resistance and courage can be translated into compelling visuals that resonate with today’s audiences.

Homage To Catalonia - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-228000/page-1/228000

10. Man’s Search for Meaning

Finding Purpose Amidst Adversity

Viktor Frankl’s exploration of finding meaning in the darkest times is a powerful testament to human resilience. This book can inspire advocacy content that focuses on hope, resilience, and the human spirit, especially in challenging times.

Man’s Search For Meaning - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-63301/page-1/63301

11. Prisoner of the State

Lessons in Defiance from China’s Premier

This memoir by former Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang provides a behind-the-scenes look at government power dynamics. It’s a valuable read for understanding the stakes of political dissent and can inform campaigns focused on freedom and democracy.

Prisoner of the State - https://libbyapp.com/tags/similar-245670/page-1/245670 

12. 74 Countries to Flee To During a Trump Coup

Planning Your Escape Route

This resource provides a tongue-in-cheek but informative guide on countries that welcome immigrants, especially those fleeing political instability. It’s perfect for advocacy groups looking to create humorous yet informative content on political asylum.

74 Countries to Flee To During a Trump Coup - https://greaterandgrander.com/74-countries-to-flee-to-during-a-trump-coup/

13. National Coalition for Sexual Freedom

Defending Sexual Freedom and Privacy

The NCSF advocates for sexual freedom and privacy rights, offering resources to combat discrimination. Advocacy groups can leverage this content to produce visuals that promote inclusivity and freedom of expression.

National Coalition for Sexual Freedom - https://ncsfreedom.org/

Why Choose Greater & Grander Media Services?

Navigating the challenges of a potential second Trump term requires strategic communication and compelling visuals that cut through the noise. At Greater & Grander Media Services, we specialize in creating high-impact visual content tailored to your advocacy goals. Whether you’re raising awareness, mobilizing supporters, or sparking change, our expert team will help you stand out with engaging multimedia that conveys your message powerfully. Let’s work together to turn your vision into action and make a difference in these critical times.

Ready to amplify your voice? Contact Greater & Grander Media Services today to start your journey towards impactful advocacy!

Do you have your own thoughts? Let us know in the comments! Or join our community of successful creators on Patreon!

#Advocacy, #DonaldTrump, #DumpTrump, #Elected, #Elections, #Entertainment, #Freedom, #LoveTrumpsHate, #MediaConsultations, #MediaProduction, #MediaProject, #MediaServices, #OnlineMedia, #Politics, #Tips, #Trump, #UnitedStates, #UnitedStatesOfAmerica, #USA, #Voter

[casaamarilla]

542: Total peace, totally reimagined - nonviolent communication in Colombia

Hello and welcome to another episode of Colombia Calling – I’m Emily Hart and this week we have something a little bit different – the radical linguistic technique which is building peace - personal and political - all over the world, and the inspiring woman bringing it to Colombia. 

  This week, I have with me Camila Reyes Azcuénaga – the founder of Resuena, the organisation bringing the school of thought known as ‘Nonviolent Communication’ (NVC) to Colombia, a way of structuring our thoughts and communications to prevent and heal conflict, breaching the divides of culture, politics, and identity. 

  Developed in the late 20th Century by psychologist Marshall Rosenberg, NVC now has trainers and centres in more than 60 countries around the world. This simple technique aims to humanise the ‘other’, and forge communication, collaboration, and trust – from our daily life, to our work, and well beyond. 

  Camila studied law and political science and worked with indigenous communities and landmines here in Colombia, but felt the country needed a more fundamental change than she could achieve with that work. She left Colombia in search of something which would shift the paradigm of violence and conflict entirely. 

  After stumbling across Nonviolent Communication training during Occupy Wall Street, she felt she’d found what she was looking for – she spent years training and finally returned to Colombia, founding Resuena in 2011, running free workshops for years.

  Resuena has now trained thousands, from institutions like the United Nations, the Truth Commission, and the Search Unit for Missing Persons, to grassroots social leaders in conflict-stricken areas of Colombia’s South-west. The group helps people to navigate interpersonal relationships and conflicts, as well as maintain cohesion within movements and groups. 

  Through guided discussions, participants are trained to identify the patterns of behaviour that divide them and weaken their collective campaigns and processes, and then to replace them with a focus on acting from common ground. This year, Resuena also launched the ‘Sowers of Nonviolent Communication’ network – so that trainees can go into their own communities and pass on the training. 

  So today, Camila is going to give us a masterclass in these techniques and their underlying ideas, talking us through the four steps – observation, feeling, need, and request – along with some everyday examples. She’ll then tell us about her amazing work in some of Colombia’s most difficult contexts, and why this work is so necessary not just for the country – but for all of us.

Check out this episode!

[lboogie1906]

Rev. Cordy Tindell Vivian (July 30, 1924 – July 17, 2020) was a minister, author, close friend, and lieutenant of Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement. He resided in Atlanta and founded the C. T. Vivian Leadership Institute, Inc. He was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

He was born in Boonville, Missouri. He attended Western Illinois University, where he worked as the sports editor for the school newspaper. He was the recreation director for the Carver Community Center in Peoria. He participated in his first sit-in demonstrations, which successfully integrated Barton’s Cafeteria.

President Barack Obama, speaking at Selma’s Brown Chapel, the anniversary of the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, recognized him in his opening remarks in the words of Martin L. King Jr. as “the greatest preacher to ever live.”

Studying for the ministry at American Baptist College, he met James Lawson, who was teaching Mohandas Gandhi’s nonviolent direct action strategy to the Nashville Student Movement. Soon Lawson’s students, including Diane Nash, Bernard Lafayette, James Bevel, John Lewis, and others from American Baptist, Fisk University, and Tennessee State University, organized a systematic nonviolent sit-in campaign at local lunch counters. On April 19, 1960, 4,000 demonstrators peacefully walked to Nashville’s City Hall, where they discussed the situation with Nashville Mayor Ben West. As a result, Mayor West publicly agreed that racial discrimination was morally wrong.

He helped found the Nashville Christian Leadership Conference and helped organize the first sit-ins in Nashville and the first civil rights march. He participated in Freedom Rides. He worked with Martin Luther King Jr. as the national director of affiliates for the SCLC. He conceived and directed an educational program, Vision, and put 702 Alabama students in college with scholarships (this program became Upward Bound). Black Power and the American Myth was the first book on the Civil Rights Movement by a member of Martin Luther King’s staff. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence #alphaphialpha

[plotsforsaleinmysore]

How Has the Demand for Plots in Mysore Changed Over Recent Years?

How Has the Demand for Plots in Mysore Changed Over Recent Years?

Introduction

Plots in Mysore, which appeared for its rich cultural records and serene environment, has grown to be an appealing excursion spot for actual property investment. This guide explores how the decision for plots in Mysore has advanced over cutting-edge day years, examining the critical detail factors driving this variation and the outcomes for clients and customers.

Historical Context

Historically, Mysore has been a desired destination for retirees and those seeking a nonviolent way of life. However, modern-day dispositions advocate a shift in the metropolis’s demographic and monetary panorama, which has notably impacted the real estate market.

Key Drivers of Demand

Urbanization: The regular urbanization of plots in Mysore has added about multiplied calls for residential and enterprise plots. As more humans flow to the town for higher technique possibilities and remarkable existence, the call for housing has surged.

Infrastructure Development: Significant infrastructure projects, which encompass improved street connectivity, the proposed suburban rail mission, and the improvement of IT parks, have made Mysore a more attractive holiday spot for tangible assets investment.

Educational Institutions: Famous academic institutions have attracted college students and professionals, further growing the decision to purchase residential plots.

Tourism and Heritage: Mysore’s reputation as a tourist hub has boosted the call for organization plots, mainly for hospitality and retail corporations.

Trends in Plot Demand

Residential Plots: There has been a critical growth in the call for residential plots, driven by each network of residents and migrants from terrific towns. The preference for massive plot sizes to construct custom homes has moreover risen.

Commercial Plots: The name for commercial plots has grown, especially in areas near essential roads and organization hubs. The increase in retail chains, hospitality sectors, and workplaces fuels the trend.

Suburban Areas: Suburban localities around Mysore have seen a spike in demand because of their affordability and the promise of a future boom. Areas that consist of Hunsur Road, Bannur Road, and Bogadi Road have turned out to be famous alternatives for real property  investment.

Investment Demand: Investors, every character and institutional, are increasingly looking at plots in Mysore as an extended-term investment. The pretty decreased prices as compared to metropolitan towns make Mysore an attractive opportunity for funding.

Data and Statistics

To quantify the adjustments in name, we will study numerous signs:

Price Appreciation: Over the past 5 years, the standard fee for plots in Mysore has been preferred with the aid of about 20-30%, indicating a sturdy call for.

Transaction Volume: The quantity of plot transactions has grade by grade multiplied, with a full-size spike within the final three years.

Development Projects: There has been a surge in the quantity of accepted residential and enterprise development tasks, reflecting the growing name for plots.

Future Outlook

The name for plots in Mysore is predicted to preserve its upward trajectory, supported via ongoing infrastructure responsibilities, financial growth, and the town’s growing appeal as a residential and business enterprise hub. Prospective purchasers and buyers need to take into account:

Emerging Areas: Identifying growing areas with deliberate infrastructure tendencies can provide significant returns on investment.

Sustainability: Focusing on sustainable and inexperienced inclinations can align with the growing choice for inexperienced dwellings.

Long-time period Potential: Evaluating the prolonged-term ability of numerous localities based primarily on deliberate city development and coverage changes.

Conclusion

The demand for plots in Mysore has increased in recent years, driven by maf using urbanization, infrastructure development, and financial growth. This style is anticipated to be preserved, presenting rewarding opportunities for clients and investors. Understanding the elements influencing names for and identifying strategic investment places is a mystery to making knowledgeable choices in the Mysore actual belongings market.

By staying knowledgeable about the evolving dispositions and drivers of the name, stakeholders can capitalize on Mysore’s boom capability, ensuring profitable and sustainable funding within the city’s dynamic real estate panorama.

For More Information Visit, Plots in Mysore.