Remembering Two Young Sisters Who Were Just Going to School
Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu acted illegally in launching a lethal and devastating attack...
Read Moreby Jack Hassard | May 5, 2026 | Iran 2026 War, War and Peace
Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu acted illegally in launching a lethal and devastating attack...
Read Moreby Jack Hassard | May 3, 2026 | Iran 2026 War, War and Peace
On September 5, 1945, a mother and child began their journey of walking to school, a routine that continued as siblings joined them. This narrative intertwines with a heart-wrenching story from March 28, 2026, where a father accompanied his two daughters to school. Despite the innocence of their morning, an unforeseen event shattered their normalcy. The father would forever remember the simple moments shared, filled with love and promise, now tainted by an unimaginable loss that changed everything.
by Jack Hassard | Mar 24, 2026 | Democracy, Journalism, Resistance Movement
The preservation of democracy relies on individuals who interpret its challenges and defend its principles, especially during tumultuous times like the Trump era. Historians, educators, journalists, and others provided clarity and context, reminding citizens of the importance of civic engagement. Figures like Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Heather Cox Richardson highlighted authoritarian patterns, while others like Diane Ravitch and Robert Reich emphasized the significance of education and economic equity. Together, these voices illustrate that democracy endures not just through institutions, but through active participation and discourse among the public.
by Jack Hassard | Mar 17, 2026 | Iran 2026 War, Skyler Fusaro Letters
In a letter reflecting on an essay from 2026 by Jack Hassard regarding the U.S. military strikes against Iran, Skyler Fusaro emphasizes the significance of legal and moral questions about the war. Originally, Hassard raised concerns about the legality of the action under international law, suggesting that justifications for the strike were unstable and politically motivated. Fusaro notes that while the initial discourse seemed uncertain, it now reveals a pivotal moment in the erosion of international order. He highlights the importance of questioning governmental actions to protect democratic values and maintain legal constraints.
by Jack Hassard | Mar 14, 2026 | War and Peace
In recent weeks, concerns have heightened regarding the war with Iran, particularly around its legality and underlying motivations. Questions arise about whether the U.S. actions comply with international law, as the Security Council did not authorize military force. Various justifications for the war, from preventing nuclear threats to influencing Iran’s political landscape, further cloud its purpose. Additionally, the conflict’s impact on global shipping routes threatens the world economy, especially oil prices. Ultimately, clarity and justification for the war remain elusive, raising critical issues in democratic accountability.
by Jack Hassard | Mar 4, 2026 | Journalism, Skyler Fusaro Letters
On the Iranian War Recovered interview transcript, Atlanta Historical Archive — Annotated in the...
Read Moreby Jack Hassard | Mar 3, 2026 | War and Peace
This essay explores the implications of President Trump’s military actions against Iran, emphasizing the tension between national security and democratic principles. It critiques the broad interpretations of executive power and the erosion of constitutional accountability during crises, as analyzed by scholars like Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Joyce Vance. The author stresses the importance of congressional oversight and the risks of wartime rhetoric normalizing expanded authority. Ultimately, it argues for a necessary balance between security measures and the preservation of democracy, highlighting that informed public consent is crucial in times of conflict.
by Jack Hassard | Feb 28, 2026 | War and Peace
On February 28, 2026, the Middle East erupted into a new phase of conflict. It was shocking and...
Read Moreby Jack Hassard | Feb 25, 2026 | Civic Education, Skyler Fusaro Letters
Skyler Fusaro, a fictional historian and activist from the 2060s, reflects on Donald Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address in her letter. She critiques its promotion of authority and fear, emphasizing how it redefined civic virtue through ceremony rather than policy. The unexpected highlight was Trump awarding a hockey goalie a medal, symbolizing the shift from achievement to loyalty. Fusaro warns that this speech served as a precursor to authoritarianism, marking a troubling trajectory in American governance, where dominance is mistaken for stability.
by Jack Hassard | Feb 20, 2026 | Immigration
Social Circle is facing an unexpected challenge from the Department of Homeland Security, which plans to convert a local warehouse into a detention center for up to 10,000 migrants. This proposal highlights the lack of local government notification and support for ICE’s expansion, which aims to increase detention facilities nationwide. Amidst rising anti-ICE sentiment, many American communities are unprepared for such developments, prompting protests and local resistance. Social Circle is determined to oppose this plan, emphasizing inadequate infrastructure to support such a significant increase in population.
