A Life in U.S.-Soviet Russia Exchanges From Airlie House to Moscow: A Life in U.S.–Soviet Exchanges. This post is the first of three. They were initiated by the failed summit in Alaska. It was between two men who cannot be...
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The upcoming summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska has drawn criticism for excluding Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Analysts view this arrangement as a violation of the principle that Ukraine should be involved in discussions about its future. Concerns persist regarding both leaders’ backgrounds, with Putin seen as a manipulator and Trump criticized for his unpredictable diplomacy. Zelenskyy lamented that talks about Ukraine without its presence are futile. The meeting may reinforce Putin’s position while sidelining Ukraine’s sovereignty, raising fears of unbalanced agreements detrimental to Ukraine.
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The author reflects on their experiences traveling to the Soviet Union from 1983 to 2000 as part of an education exchange initiative, witnessing the significant political and social changes throughout this period. They highlight the warmth and generosity encountered, despite the oppressive state presence. The narrative shifts to contemporary America, drawing parallels between past Soviet repression and present-day immigration policies, emphasizing mass surveillance, targeted repression, and the erosion of democratic norms. The author warns of the dangers of normalizing authoritarian governance and stresses the importance of human connections and vigilance in defending democracy.
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The Trump administration’s plan to revoke the EPA’s 2009 endangerment finding threatens the foundation of environmental policy rooted in scientific evidence. Originally established through Massachusetts v. EPA, this finding linked greenhouse gases to public health risks. Despite overwhelming scientific consensus affirming climate disruption, the administration’s actions might sever the crucial bond between science and policy. The ongoing struggle is not merely legal; it reflects the broader commitment to evidence-based governance and the preservation of democracy against political interests undermining climate action.
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In 2007, the Supreme Court, in Massachusetts v. EPA, decided that the EPA must fulfill its...
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Ed Johnson is a dedicated advocate for education in Atlanta Public Schools (APS), promoting a systems and humanistic approach. We connected through a local television interview where he discussed learning within APS. Over the years, we’ve collaborated on various educational issues. Recently, I received one of Ed’s daily emails, outlining his manifesto for transformative education in Atlanta. He encourages others to adopt his vision if it resonates with them, emphasizing his commitment to improving public education in the region.
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In the 1990s, the Global Thinking Project showcased a blossoming independent press in Russia, with newspapers and broadcasters revealing truths after Soviet censorship. However, this openness faded under Putin’s regime, leading to severe media repression and the emergence of state-controlled propaganda, parallel to Trump’s tactics in the U.S. Trump has adopted Putin’s strategies, undermining independent journalism, challenging press freedom, and intimidating media outlets. The concerning trend in both countries highlights the urgent need to support independent journalism and protect democratic accountability.
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During a press conference in Kerrville, Texas, Donald Trump faced reporters’ questions about delayed flood alerts following recent tragic flooding. Trump deflected a critical inquiry, labeling it as coming from an “evil person,” while praising the event’s management instead. The article criticizes Trump’s past neglect of climate science and highlights Kerrville’s repeated flooding history, disputing Trump’s characterization of the event as rare. This year’s floods, exacerbated by Tropical Storm Barry, have led to significant casualties and raised alarm over the region’s flood preparedness and response systems.
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In a letter from 2092, Skyler Fusaro warns Jack about the grim implications of suppressing curiosity and dissent in education. Reflecting on a future plagued by climate disasters and political repression, she recalls the oppressive measures of the Second Trump Administration, paralleling it to historical atrocities. Education has shifted from critical thinking to indoctrination, with banned topics and censored curricula. Skyler emphasizes the importance of reinstating justice and courage in teaching, urging action against growing authoritarianism that threatens students and educators alike
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“It’s the most hated bill passed by the Senate in the U.S. since the 1990s.\ The...
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