#resolution 504

[im-a-fan-of-things]

Clipped from my email! Please do it if you have a sec! Reblog with tags if not!

[phoenixyfriend]

Calls for Action, Call Your Reps: 2/21/24

This is USA-specific, as that is the place I live and know.

Find your elected officials.

There are no bills scheduled to be on the floor on the House or Senate this week, though that may change. The chambers are using this time to debate and negotiate changes to the bills that were passed in the other chamber last week.

Suggested verbiage and strategies for calling your elected officials.

Both House and Senate:

Reinstate funding for UNRWA. While the claims made by Israel that employees of the relief agency were involved in Oct. 7th are troubling, THEY are not well supported, and western officials did not do their duty in investigating the claims before cutting funding. This arm of the UN is currently providing food, water, shelter, and medical care to the 2.3 million displaced peoples of Gaza. It is especially disturbing and concerning that the many children of Gaza, who are already suffering due to this conflict, are now having this support revoked. Many sources are also claiming that the evidence is flimsy at best.

UNICEF is reporting that children are dying of hunger in Gaza, as of today (2/21/24).

Urge both Senate and House to refrain from funding Israel, or to at least put some strings on it. The IDF cannot be given funding without some regulations on what they can do with it. They have proven that they are unwilling to take steps to protect civilians.

Sanctions must also be placed on Israel for its continued impediment of aid intended for Gazans, including aid from the US.

Urge for the US to stop vetoing ceasefire demands in the UN. No, the suggested replacement written by the US is not an excuse.

FOR THE SENATE: Urge your senator to put their support behind Bernie Sanders and his motion to restrict funding to Israel until a humanitarian review of the IDF’s actions in Gaza has been completed. Cite it as Senate Resolution 504 if your Senator is right-wing enough to react negatively to the mention of Sanders by name. NOTE: This resolution was TABLED by the Senate on 1/16, but it is being brought back in as conditions continue to escalate.

Passed in the House last week, so bother your senators about it, is H.R. 3016: IGO Anti-Boycott Act. Vote Nay. This appears to be intended to force US companies to do business with US allies instead of participating in boycotts. This appears, to me, to be an attack on movements like BDS. To Dem Reps, argue that this refuses the right of peaceful protest to US citizens. To Republican Reps, argue that this is a dangerous government overreach and that it is not the right of the government to force US citizens to purchase products and materials from specific foreign partners.

Not related to Gaza: It looks like they're gearing up for another push at KOSA. The canned email responses I'm getting are really proud of being FOR KOSA, which is... bad. VOTE NAY.

FOR THE HOUSE: Urge your representative to put their support behind Rep. Rashida Tlaib’s petition for the US government to recognize the IDF’s actions in Gaza as ethnic cleansing and forced displacement, and put a stop to it. ALTERNATELY: recommend that they support House Resolution 786, introduced by Rep. Cori Bush, Calling for an immediate deescalation and cease-fire in Israel and occupied Palestine.

If you wish to support my political blogging, I am accepting donations on ko-fi.

[thesquidtheman]

Howdy all, if you’re a USA citizen you should call your senators and ask them to support Bernie Sander’s resolution SR 504. From what I understand, this resolution requires the US government to investigate potential human rights violations in Israel. If they can’t provide a report on this within 30 days, military aid to Israel is halted until the report is submitted. It’s being voted on tomorrow, Jan 16 at 5:30 ET.

You can check out this article if you want any more info on this, I found the Historical Context section encouraging:

“In 2019, Senators Chris Murphy and Todd Young introduced a resolution requesting a report on Saudi Arabia’s human rights practices under Section 502B(c). This action highlighted concerns about U.S. complicity in human rights abuses in Saudi Arabia. The resolution did not pass, but the effort significantly increased scrutiny of and pressure on U.S. support for the Saudi war in Yemen.”

Here’s a website to find your senator, all you have to choose is your state and it’ll give you a list of senators for that state.

Please call! This is a small step, but according to this article, it will at least force US senators to have a conversation about US involvement in Israel.

[alexanderblackday]

Screentones Collection 2 - Dots - Download

Apply these screentones to create a manga style or dot pattern on your illustrations, photos, designs and videos. This technique is mainly used in manga and comics to apply patterns.

The number of lines corresponds to the number of dots in each row or column, this method was implemented to reduce costs by printing only with black ink; when the dots are small enough, an optical illusion is created in which the eye interprets the patterned areas as a smooth grayscale.

This collection of screentones was made so that mangakas and digital illustrators could work freely in any software of their choice.

Screentones - Dots - 1 Line

Screentones - Dots - 2 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 3 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 4 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 5 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 10 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 15 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 20 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 25 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 30 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 35 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 40 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 45 Lines

Screentones - Dots - 50 Lines

252 Brushes

252 Patterns

Format: PNG / Transparent Background

Size: 9 x 12 Inch / 22.86  x 30.48 cm

Size: 5400 x 7200 px / 2700 x 3600 px

Resolution: 600 DPI & 300 DPI

Color Mode: RGB

Included: 504 PNG Files / High Quality / 600 DPI / 5400 x 7200 px

Download on:

Creative Market

ArtStation

Gumroad

Blogger

Payhip

Etsy

[rockmiyabideusexmachina]

Megaman Production Art Scan of the Day #504:

Flashman.EXE Head Shot Design Sheet [Flashman.EXE ①]

Notations include:

- There are no notations on this sheet

Full Resolution Scan: https://imgbox.com/FUfjuAMv

[wegadvocacy]

Empower Yourself with Special Education Advocacy Training at Wegadvocacy

Every child deserves an education that meets their unique needs and maximizes their potential. However, navigating the complex world of special education can be challenging for parents and guardians. This is where Wegadvocacy.com steps in. Special Education Advocacy Training we offer Special Education Advocacy Training designed to empower parents and guardians to fight for their child's educational rights with the necessary skills and confidence.

Why Special Education Advocacy Matters

Special education advocacy is crucial for ensuring that children with disabilities receive the support and accommodations they need to thrive in the educational system. Often, parents and guardians are the best advocates for their children, but they may feel overwhelmed by the legal and procedural complexities involved in securing appropriate educational services. Our training programs aim to demystify these processes, providing you with the knowledge and tools to effectively advocate for your child's educational needs.

Comprehensive Training for Effective Advocacy

At Wegadvocacy.com, our Special Education Advocacy Training covers a wide range of topics to equip you with a thorough understanding of the special education system. Our program includes:

Understanding Special Education Laws and Regulations: Gain insight into key legislation, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which protect the rights of children with disabilities.

Navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) Process: Learn how to effectively participate in the IEP process, from initial assessments to developing and reviewing your child's IEP.

Communication Strategies: Develop skills for effective communication with school personnel, including teachers, administrators, and special education staff.

Conflict Resolution and Mediation: Discover techniques for resolving disputes and advocating for your child's needs in a constructive and collaborative manner.

Record Keeping and Documentation: Understand the importance of maintaining thorough records and documentation to support your advocacy efforts.

Building Confidence and Empowering Parents

Our training programs are designed not only to provide information but also to build confidence. We understand that advocating for your child's education can be an emotional and daunting task. Through our comprehensive training, you will gain the confidence to:

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Empower yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to advocate for your child's education. Educational assessment for special education to learn more about our Special Education Advocacy Training and enroll in our program. Together, we can ensure that every child receives the education they deserve.

By equipping yourself with the necessary skills and confidence through our training, you can make a significant difference in your child's educational journey. Join the community of empowered parents at Wegadvocacy.com and take the first step towards securing a brighter future for your child.

[samschimmel]

ABA Proposes Solution to AMBER Alert Failings for Indigenous People

At the American Bar Association (ABA) Midyear Meeting in 2024, the House of Delegates took a significant step in acknowledging the disproportionate risks of abduction and violence experienced by members of Alaska Native and Native American communities. This acknowledgment led to the introduction and passage of Resolution 504, which aims to address the challenges faced by Indigenous people within the existing Amber Alert system.

Resolution 504: A Call for Amendments The Resolution urges US legislators to amend the Prosecutorial Remedies and Other Tools to End the Exploitation of Children Today Act, which established the national Amber Alert program in 2003. The proposed amendment seeks the appointment of a national tribal coordinator by the U.S. Department of Justice to oversee Amber Alerts involving Alaska Natives and American Indians who are reported as missing, abducted, or in danger. Additionally, it recommends the expansion of the Amber Alert system to include adults and the hiring of regional tribal Amber Alert coordinators.

The passage of Resolution 504 was prompted by ongoing challenges identified after the implementation of the Ashlynne Mike Amber Alert in Indian Country Act in 2018. This law aimed to integrate tribal Amber Alert plans into state or regional programs, but tribal members reported difficulties in coordination and participation due to the size and terrain of their reservations. The Department of Justice's report highlighted these challenges, reinforcing the need for specific measures to address the unique circumstances of Indigenous communities.

The ABA President, Mary Smith, voiced her support for Resolution 504, emphasizing the significance of addressing the shortcomings of the Amber Alert system in tribal communities. The idea for the resolution originated from an Alaska Native law student, highlighting the grassroots nature of this initiative. Resolution 504 also garnered support from various ABA entities, including the Coalition on Racial and Ethnic Justice, the Commission on Domestic and Sexual Violence, and the Commission on Women in the Profession. The collaborative effort displayed a unified stance within the ABA in addressing the specific challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

The passage of Resolution 504 signifies a step toward inclusivity within the national Amber Alert program, recognizing the need to adapt existing systems to better serve Indigenous people. This resolution aligns with previous ABA initiatives addressing the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis, demonstrating a sustained effort to prioritize the safety and well-being of Indigenous communities.

Resolution 504 stands as a testament to the ABA's commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by Indigenous people within the criminal justice system. By acknowledging the limitations of the current Amber Alert system and proposing practical amendments, the ABA has taken a significant step in advocating for the safety and protection of Alaska Native and Native American communities.

As the ABA continues to prioritize the rights and well-being of Indigenous people, Resolution 504 serves as a crucial milestone in the ongoing efforts to ensure equitable and effective protection for all members of society.

[massispost]

New Post has been published on https://massispost.com/2024/03/armenian-to-continue-working-towards-closer-ties-with-eu-pm-pashinyan/

Armenian to Continue Working Towards Closer Ties with EU – PM Pashinyan

YEREVAN — Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan welcomed on Thursday a European Parliament resolution adopted yesterday on the need for closer ties between the European Union and Armenia and the peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The resolution passed on Wednesday reaffirms support for Armenia’s territorial integrity and “democratic credentials,” praises the Armenian government for seeking closer ties with the EU “This document, supported by all factions, was adopted with 504 votes in favor, 4 against, and 32 abstentions. The resolution expresses unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of the Republic of Armenia based on the 1991 Alma-Ata…

[ledenews]

Ohio County Schools, Russell Nesbitt, WVDRS Establish Partnership

When three amazing programs combine, beautiful opportunities are created.  That’s exactly what is happening at Wheeling Park High School with the help of Russell Nesbitt Services and the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services, also known as DRS. Through their grouping, a unique option is now available at WPHS.  This program came to fruition when Special Education Director for Ohio County Schools, Leah Stout, worked closely with Russell Nesbitt. Russell Nesbitt notably works with adults with disabilities.  “This was a way for both parents and students to feel supported in post-secondary options after students leave Wheeling Park High School,” Stout states.  During the week, WPHS special education teachers Ashlee Kuca, Dionne Cox, and department chair Amy Rice send students on a rotating basis to a variety of courses led by Russell Nesbitt’s team through DRS.  The initial course, Instructional Self Advocacy, also known as ISA, builds soft skills. Emily Doyle, Employment Services Manager for the program states, “Students focus on understanding the differences between wants and needs, and they learn about different programs that apply to them and will support them including ADA, IDEA, and 504s.” The laws, like the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensure that people with disabilities do not face workplace discrimination. Understanding these laws is vital to employees knowing their rights.   With class sizes small enough for customization, students receive personalized information to help enable learners for successful employment after graduation. Janet Judy, speaking for DRS, adds, “ISA provides participants with information about self-awareness. We review centers for independent living, college accessibility offices, accommodations, and communication skills.” In addition to ISA, Career Exploration Opportunity, or CEO, follows.  Doyle states, “CEO is geared to get students thinking about post-high school options and leads into our work curriculum. Students focus on routines, time management, resume building, and interview skills.”  Students also focus on conflict resolution in the workplace, complete interest inventories, explore hobbies vs. jobs, and meet with a variety of guest speakers.   The final piece of this program is the Work Style Assessment. This piece covers four entry-level positions in the workplace and puts the previously learned skills into action. Students have the ability to experience hands-on-training in concessions, bakery, retail, and greenhouse work. The skills focused on include food safety, work safety, cash handling, machinery, cleaning, and customer service.  DRS is able to help these students long after graduation. Judy states, “Right now, students are in their pre-transitional plan phase. Once they graduate, we will follow each student until  they’ve reached full-time employment for as long as needed.  We can also provide job coaching, supportive employment training, and even set up tutoring and training opportunities.”  For WV students outside of this program, DRS still has many options available for assistance. Qualifying students can receive financial sponsorship, assistive technology and software, guidance with the college or post-secondary training process, and even adaptive technology.   As this cohort enters its second full year, the Special Education Department at Wheeling Park High School has noticed definitive success in each student involved.   Ashlee Kuca states, “This program is a nice bridge between what students do at Park, and what they will ultimately do for employment.”  Dionne Cox adds, “It’s increased excitement and attitude regarding attendance, and I’m also able to share these amazing moments, including their strengths and social interactions, with parents.  Being able to see their success means so much.”  Amy Rice notes the individual strength in each student: “I see them becoming more independent and more excited for the future.”   As students continue in this opportunity, they see some of their post-graduate options, but more importantly, the community sees what an asset these future workers are. “It gives our students and our community perspective on what they CAN do,” Kuca states. Read the full article

[lexingtontaxgroup]

Understanding IRS CP-504 Notices and How Lexington Tax Group Can Help

If you've recently received an IRS CP-504 notice, you may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your financial future. This notice is a clear indication that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has not received payment for an unpaid balance, and it serves as a Notice of Intent to Levy under Internal Revenue Code section 6331(d). The implications of ignoring this notice can be daunting, including the possibility of income and bank account levies, property seizures, and even the interception of your state income tax refund.

But fear not, because in this blog post, we'll shed light on how Lexington Tax Group can be your trusted partner in resolving IRS CP-504 notices and ensuring your financial stability.

Understanding the IRS CP-504 Notice

Before diving into how Lexington Tax Group can assist, let's first understand the IRS CP-504 notice in detail. This notice is essentially a warning from the IRS that they are prepared to take serious action to collect the unpaid tax debt. Here's what it signifies:

Notice of Intent to Levy: The CP-504 notice is a formal notification from the IRS, indicating their intention to levy your income, bank accounts, and possibly even seize your property or other assets to settle the outstanding tax debt.

Now that you have a grasp of what you're dealing with, let's explore how Lexington Tax Group can provide valuable assistance in this challenging situation.

How Lexington Tax Group Can Help

🌟 Immediate Action: One of the first steps in addressing an IRS CP-504 notice is to respond promptly. Lexington Tax Group will ensure that you take the necessary action quickly to prevent further IRS enforcement actions.

🔒 Negotiation: Our team of experienced tax professionals will work diligently to negotiate with the IRS on your behalf. We'll explore options like setting up a reasonable payment plan or pursuing a settlement through programs such as an Offer in Compromise.

💼 Asset Protection: Worried about losing your assets or income to IRS levies? We've got your back. Lexington Tax Group will employ strategies to protect your assets and income while working towards the resolution of your tax debt.

🤓 Expert Advice: No two tax situations are identical. That's why our experts will provide you with personalized advice and tailored strategies to address the specific complexities of your case.

📊 Audit Representation: In cases where an underlying issue may have contributed to your tax debt, we offer audit representation services to ensure that any concerns are addressed thoroughly and professionally.

Why Choose Lexington Tax Group?

Lexington Tax Group is not just any tax assistance firm; we're your dedicated partner in navigating the complexities of IRS CP-504 notices. Here's why you should choose us:

Experienced Professionals: Our team consists of tax experts with a deep understanding of tax laws, regulations, and IRS procedures.

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Stress-Free Resolution: We understand that dealing with the IRS can be stressful. With Lexington Tax Group on your side, you can focus on your life and business while we handle all communication with the IRS, ensuring a stress-free resolution process.

Take Control of Your Financial Future

Don't let an IRS CP-504 notice create unnecessary stress or financial hardship in your life. Contact Lexington Tax Group today to regain control of your finances and your peace of mind.

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#LexingtonTaxGroup #IRSNoticeCP504 #TaxReliefExperts #FinancialFreedom

[dailyrandomwriter]

Day 504

I was so caught up in wrapping up my old journal and preparing the markers for the new journal that I forgot to write anything yesterday.

It’s… strange to think it’s been four months since I started to use a journal, because when I started I knew it was going to be a large time commitment. It’s a time commitment, I don’t mind. Before using a journal, I was already doing stationary art, and setting up a journal was just doing that but with the purpose of giving myself layouts to use.

Nor do I mind the time I take out every night, every week and every month to fill it out, because it has allowed me to know what my own plans are. Even if it’s a plan I don’t follow to the letter, there is something there telling me what to do.

Last year, I made a bunch of yearly goals, the kind of resolutions we all make every new year. This year, I am not, because my journal is my goal and all my goals are sprinkled throughout my journal. If I can continue to use my journal the way I intended I would consider that a pretty good success.

[phoenixyfriend]

Calls for Action, Call Your Reps: 2/13/24

This is USA-specific, as that is the place I live and know.

Find your elected officials.

Today, much of my information is coming from Democracy Now!, which I generally listen to as a podcast (functionally, it is a radio news broadcast, like NPR or BBC), and I am quoting from the text versions on their website.

The Senate passed a $95 billion military funding package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan in the pre-dawn hours this morning. But the bill’s fate remains unclear after House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the measure over its failure to include hard-line immigration restrictions. This comes after Johnson and other Republicans rejected an earlier version of the bill which did contain the border crackdown they had demanded. Johnson has told Republican congressmembers he will call a House vote on a stand-alone funding bill for Israel.

From the same page, we are hearing that President Biden is urging Israel to refrain from invading Rafah, where a million or so Palestinians are currently sheltering, but is not actually threatening any kind of repercussions for said invasion. Reports from both official sources (e.g. the Hamas-run health ministry) and less official (e.g. American doctors returning from relief services in Palestine) indicate that over half of the deaths in Palestine are children.

I am not going to pretend that I know what is going through Biden's head.

Both House and Senate:

Reinstate funding for UNRWA. While the claims made by Israel that employees of the relief agency were involved in Oct. 7th are troubling, THEY are not well supported, and western officials did not do their duty in investigating the claims before cutting funding. This arm of the UN is currently providing food, water, shelter, and medical care to the 2.3 million displaced peoples of Gaza. It is especially disturbing and concerning that the many children of Gaza, who are already suffering due to this conflict, are now having this support revoked. Many sources are also claiming that the evidence is flimsy at best.

Urge both Senate and House to refrain from funding Israel, or to at least put some strings on it. The IDF cannot be given funding without some regulations on what they can do with it. They have proven that they are unwilling to take steps to protect civilians.

FOR THE SENATE: Urge your senator to put their support behind Bernie Sanders and his motion to restrict funding to Israel until a humanitarian review of the IDF’s actions in Gaza has been completed. Cite it as Senate Resolution 504 if your Senator is right-wing enough to react negatively to the mention of Sanders by name. NOTE: This resolution was TABLED by the Senate on 1/16, but it is being brought back in as conditions continue to escalate.

FOR THE HOUSE: Urge your representative to put their support behind Rep. Rashida Tlaib’s petition for the US government to recognize the IDF’s actions in Gaza as ethnic cleansing and forced displacement, and put a stop to it. ALTERNATELY: recommend that they support House Resolution 786, introduced by Rep. Cori Bush, Calling for an immediate deescalation and cease-fire in Israel and occupied Palestine.

On the House Floor this week, to call your rep about:

H.Res. 994: Married persons tax break. Vote nay. Loses billions in tax revenue and explicitly targets green energy.

H.R. 2766 and H.R. 4039: Condemnation of China's actions against the Uyghurs. Can't tell you which way to talk on this. Seems good on the surface, but given who's presenting it, I worry there's something worse tucked into the text. Hopefully someone can provide a better take.

H.R. 3016: IGO Anti-Boycott Act. Vote Nay. This appears to be intended to force US companies to do business with US allies instead of participating in boycotts. This appears, to me, to be an attack on movements like BDS. To Dem Reps, argue that this refuses the right of peaceful protest to US citizens. To Republican Reps, argue that this is a dangerous government overreach and that it is not the right of the government to force US citizens to purchase products and materials from specific foreign partners.

H.Res. 966: Condemnation of sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas against Israel on Oct. 7. Vote Nay. We know sexual violence is bad. Hamas has already been condemned for their actions. This is, at best, lip service. It is a waste of time. There are much bigger, more impactful things to work on, and this is going to waste time and resources in the Senate if it passes.

If you wish to support my political blogging, I am accepting donations on ko-fi.

[theblogs2024]

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[guncelkal]

TDT Tuner Storm 504 (Refurbished A)

If you’re passionate about IT and electronics, like being up to date on technology and don’t miss even the slightest details, buy TDT Tuner Storm 504 (Refurbished A) at an unbeatable price. Resolution: Full HD 4K Type: DVBT2 Colour: Black Connections: HDMI USB REFURBISHED: These are products that have been returned within their return period or display products that have occasionally been…

[samschimmel]

Resolution 504 and the Amber Alert System in Tribal Communities

The Amber Alert System, initially established to help recover missing and abducted children, has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure the safety and security of young individuals across the United States. However, the effectiveness of this system in Native American communities has been the subject of ongoing concern, culminating in significant legislative and advocacy efforts to ensure it serves all communities equitably. Among these efforts, Resolution 504 stands out as a pivotal measure aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by Native American communities in the realm of child and adult safety.

The history of legislative action to address the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women and children is marked by several key milestones. In 2018, Congress passed the Ashlynne Mike Amber Alert in Indian Country Act, named after an 11-year-old girl from the Navajo Nation who was tragically abducted and murdered. This legislation amended the Protect Act, enabling federally recognized tribes to integrate their Amber Alert plans with state or regional programs for the first time. Despite this progress, challenges persisted, including difficulties in coordinating with state Amber Alert coordinators and adapting the program to the unique geographical and infrastructural realities of reservations.

Further legislative action included the enactment of Savanna's Act and the Not Invisible Act, signed into law in 2020. These pieces of legislation underscored the federal government's commitment to addressing the epidemic of violence against Indigenous women and girls, who experience disproportionately high rates of abduction, violence, and murder.

Resolution 504, passed during the 2024 American Bar Association Midyear Meeting, signifies a crucial step forward in this ongoing battle. Drafted with contributions from various ABA entities and inspired by advocacy from Native American legal professionals and students, the resolution urges U.S. legislators to further amend the Prosecutorial Remedies and Other Tools to End the Exploitation of Children Today Act (the act that established the national Amber Alert program) to better serve Native American communities. Specifically, it calls for the appointment of a national tribal coordinator to oversee Amber Alerts for missing, abducted, or endangered Alaska Natives and American Indians. It also advocates for the extension of Amber Alerts to cover adults within these communities and recommends the hiring of regional tribal Amber Alert coordinators.

The need for such measures is underscored by the dire statistics surrounding missing and murdered Indigenous people (MMIP). Indigenous women face murder rates significantly higher than those of white women, and more than 80% have experienced violence. The crisis is particularly acute in certain areas, where Indigenous women's murder rates can be up to 10 times the national average. Despite these alarming figures, cases involving missing Indigenous women often receive little media attention, highlighting the importance of systemic solutions like Amber Alerts.

The adoption of Resolution 504 and similar measures addresses several critical issues. First, it acknowledges the disproportionate risks of abduction and violence faced by Native American communities. Second, it seeks to improve communication and coordination between tribal, local, and state law enforcement agencies. Finally, it aims to rectify the underrepresentation of Indigenous people in state and federal missing persons databases, which hampers effective response and recovery efforts.

The Amber Alert System's evolution to better serve Native American communities exemplifies a broader commitment to justice, equity, and safety for all Americans. By recognizing the unique challenges faced by these communities and taking targeted action to address them, legislators and advocates are working to ensure that the Amber Alert System fulfills its promise as a vital tool in the protection of vulnerable populations across the nation.

[smalltownfae]

Title: The Lollipop Shoes (Sapatos de Rebuçado)

Series: Chocolat #2

Author: Joanne Harris

Translator: Teresa Curvelo

Pages: 504

Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐

(Read in portuguese)

I have read the first book in the series a long time ago. I liked it well enough, but there were some scenes that bothered me, even though I can't quite remember which ones and why. From what I remember, I feel a similar way towards this sequel. There are a lot of things I like, but there are also things that bothered me and most of those I can blame it on it being an old book.

The sequel to Chocolat is set in Paris, Montmartre to be more exact. I didn't know this going in, but I was pleasantly surprised because I just visited Paris for the first time this year and the descriptions of the city made it really clear in my mind. Vianne, the main character from the first book, is now using another name along with her daughter, Anouk. She now has another daughter, Rosette. Rosette speaks through gestures since she cannot talk and people see her as a weird child. This time the characters are trying to blend in with other people while running a chocolate shop that has been going through financial troubles. Due to this, Vianne decides to accept the marriage purposal of a rich man she doesn't love in order to give her daughters a better future. Meanwhile, Rosette suffers prejudice in spite of Vianne's best efforts to appear as normal as possible and Anouk is being bullied at school. Everything changes when an unusual woman named Zozie appears. The shop starts being successful and Anouk can stand up to her bullies. Zozie is hiding something and there is a price to pay for all the help she is giving the family, but they don't know it until it's too late.

I really like the writing style for the most part. The descriptions of smells and tastes are so vivid that I can feel them. I am not a fan of when the characters address the reader though. There is one character perspective in this book that keeps doing that and it takes me out of the story for a moment.

There are three perspectives in this story: Vianne, Anouk and Zozie. The three main characters are great and complex, but I wish the others were more fleshed out. Everyone, except the main characters, is very one note. In one of the perspectives this makes sense, but the other two are supposed to know certain characters more deeply. My favourite was definitely Anouk and I would say this is her book since she is the one with a bigger character arc. I kept thinking she was 15 when she is actually 11 though. Everyone around her seems to treat her as if she is older and that's why I kept being surprised when her real age was mentioned.

I really like the magic in general. It is everyday simple magic that the reader can believe as true or not. The main characters are like witches that do little spells, read tarot cards, can see someone's aura, have an animal companion, etc. It's not over the top and it works well in a contemporary real world setting. However, Zozie keeps using and refering to magic from a culture that is not her own and the way it is done is a little fishy. It feels like cultural appropriation. There is also a scene towards the end that is very similar to a fairy tale conclusion and that felt odd in a story that for the most part was centered in reality. The resolution to the story seemed easy and out of place.

What I disliked the most were certain terms to insult characters that felt very outdated. There is also a fat character and the fact that he is fat seems to be his main trait and he keeps being described as such everytime he appears on the page. That same character also uses a weird term to describe his girlfriend once during dinner. One character compares another to an "ugly prostitute" as a way to insult them. It's stuff like that that makes me feel like the book is old because I don't see this terms, in the situations they were used in, happening as much in modern works.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and I want to read the next ones, but I know for sure I will still feel conflicted about some of the choices happening in them. It's a pity because without the ones that were completely unecessary it would have a higher rating and it would have been a much better experience.