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Family Charities to Celebrate 25 Years – at Asia Society NYC

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Raising, Supporting & Educating Young Global Leaders – Silver Anniversary


New York, N.Y. The Board of Directors of Orphans International Worldwide and the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation have announced plans to celebrate their twenty-fifth anniversary this autumn at New York’s Asia Society. Tickets: here

“Twenty-five years ago, driven by the inspiration of my adoption of an infant from Indonesia and my mother, a child psychologist, we established our first home for children in Indonesia, thus giving birth to Orphans International,” Jim Luce states.

“Influenced by the teachings of my college professor father, the J. Luce Foundation emerged, aligning with our joint mission of Raising, Supporting & Educating Young Global Leaders over the past two decades,” Luce adds.

A commemoration of lands and people our charities have collaborated with including Bangladesh, Canada, China, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ghana, Greece, Guyana, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Liberia, Malawi, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Palestine, the Philippines, Peru, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Tanzania, Tibet, Ukraine, and Vietnam.

Jim Luce with orphaned children outside Lomé in Togo, West Africa, 2008.

The theme of this 25th anniversary evening will be ‘Peace is possible even in the face of senseless violence. Young global leadership embraces nonviolent conflict resolution.’

Highlighting the event will be the presentation of the prestigious Claire Boothe Luce Award for Public Service, alongside the Luce 24 Under 24 Recognition Awards.

The collective efforts of Orphans International and the J. Luce Foundation have empowered youth and enriched communities globally, as well as here in New York City, raising over two million dollars and impacting the lives of over two thousand young individuals.

Renown architect Noushin Ehsan, AIA states, “I am honored to have been selected as a recipient of The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation’s 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award. I look forward to celebrating with such remarkable individuals dedicated to making a positive global impact.”

The Silver Anniversary Reception will take place in the Luce Penthouse of the Asia Society, situated on Park Avenue at 70th Street, New York City. A 30-second spot (below) has been created to publicize the event, courtesy of Triumph Communications. Business of national attire is encouraged for the occasion.

The event will be held in the Henry Luce Penthouse of the Asia Society.

“This is a significant milestone for us,” Luce says. “As are assembling our Host Committee and extending invitations to public and diplomatic officials, and we ask our friends to confirm via email or text at 347-316-7087.”

The original sculpture of The Knotted Gun also known as “Non-Violence” was created by Swedish artist Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd, a friend of John Lennon‘s family. Reuterswärd created this piece of art after Lennon’s tragic death as he wanted to honor the singer’s vision of a peaceful world.

A 30-second spot has been created to publicize the event, courtesy of Triumph Communications.

Awards

Awardees are still being invited but already include a member of the New York City Council and two college presidents.

The awards are as follows:

  • 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award
  • 2024 Claire Boothe Luce Award for Public Service
  • 2024 Commander Stephen Bleecker Luce Award
  • 2024 Humanitarian of the Year Award
  • 2024 Artists-in-Residence
  • 2024 Luce 24 Under 24 Recognition Award
  • Quarter Century Global Officers Recognition Award
  • Quarter Century Graduate Role Models
  • Quarter Century Global Leadership Role Models

Past Awards Recipients include: H.E. Haya Rashed Al Khalifa (Bahrain), H.S.H. Prince Albert (Monaco), Imam Shamsi Ali (Indonesia), Prof. Lenni Benson (N.Y. Law School), H.E. Catherine Boura (Greece), Danielle Duret, M.D. (Haiti), Meera Teresa Gandhi (India), Hon. Benjamin A. Gilman, Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil (India), Cindy Hsu, Hon. Jeremiah Hyacinth (St. Lucia), Princess Khaliya Aga Khan, H.E. Amb. Dr. Palitha Kohona (Sri Lanka), Dr. Judy Kuriansky (Columbia University), H.E. Hon. Li Baodong (China), Kevin McGovern, Rear Adm. Michael Alfultis, Hon. Carolyn Maloney, Hon. Geneive Brown Metzger LLD (Jamaica), Taku Nishimae (Japan), Hon. Mitzi Perdue, and Hon. Jumaane Williams.

Tickets. VIP: $250, Regular $125, Student/YGL** $75. Reserved cocktail tables (for three) available at $1,000.

Program: 6-7pm Meet & Greet, Red Carpet/photos, videos, vodka tasting; 7-8pm speeches & entertainment; 8-9pm awards.

Global Heroes: In the Initial Report of Orphans International Worldwide (1999), the founder wrote, “Without saints, secular or divine, sanctity can too easily be viewed as mere abstraction. Our children need heroes. The courage of Mahatma Gandhi and the brilliance of Albert Einstein make sainthood a reality for us all.”

In our Initial Report, Luce called for 36 real-life saints to serve as role models for the children of OIW as part of the process of Raising Global Leaders. These global heroes included:

Mahatma Gandhi, Oscar Romero, The Dalai Lama, Thich Nhat Hanh, Katharine Drexel, Dorothy Day, Woodrow Wilson, Albert Schweitzer, Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Teresa, Desmond Tutu, Aung San Suu Kyi, Nelson Mandela, Yitzhak Rabin, Pearl S. Buck, Menachem Begin, Heinrich Böll, Willy Brandt, Albert Camus, Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, T.S. Eliot, Gabriel García Márquez, Dag Hammarskjöld, Ernest Hemingway, Herman Hesse, Yasunari Kawabata, Rudyard Kipling, Le Duc Tho, Sinclair Lewis, Thomas Mann, Eugene O’Neil, Anwar Sadat, Jean-Paul Sartre, Eisaku Sato, Isaac Bashevis Singer, John Steinbeck, Rabindranath Tagore, and Elie Wiesel.

Projects

Past

  • Orphans International Worldwide homes & projects: Bali, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Sri Lanka, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Tanzania
  • Orphans International Worldwide Global Standards
  • Luce Leadership Experience: Greece, Indonesia, Jamaica, India, Sri Lanka, and Haiti

Present

Future

Past venues for the family’s charities have included: Asia Society, Americas Society, China Institute, Cipriani, Columbia University, Consulate of Cuba, Consulate of India, Consulate of Jamaica, Consulate of Sri Lanka, Consulate of Indonesia, Cornell Club, Harvard Club, Home of Jim Luce, Home of Henry Luce III, Home of Peter Yarrow, El Museo del Barrio, National Arts Club, New York Yacht Club, Princeton Club, Russian Samovar, St. John’s Church, Skadden Arps, United Nations, University Club, Yale Club, Webster Hall, and White & Case.

Family Charities to Celebrate 25 Years – at Asia Society NYC (Sept. 20, 2024)


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Video: Before God & Buddha – Faux Film Trailer for Our Anniversary

New York, N.Y. I created this one minute short, Before God & Buddha, a faux film trailer, in celebration of our third anniversary tomorrow (5/19/18). The title is taken from our wedding vows. We were married in Las Vegas after having gotten engaged on Roosevelt Island (8/24/17). I am happy to report that I am more and more today when I was three years ago…

Video: Before God & Buddha – Faux Film Trailer for Our Anniversary (5/19/18)

#Love #GayMarriage #Marriage #Anniversary #LGBTQ #LasVegas #RooseveltIsland #NYC #Family #LoveIsLove #GayWedding #Gay #Pride #LoveWins #GayCouple #TwoGrooms #GayFamily #Rainbow #GayHusbands #Thailand #Husbands #iMovie #Happy #WeddingAnniversary #Anniversary #GayLove #GayCouple #GayAnniversary #Happiness #ILoveYou #Husband #MarriedLife #JimLuce #BixLuce #Romantic #Romance #Romantical #CoupleGoals #Lovers #LoveStory #LoveWins #Family #Forever #Match #AgeDisparity #Sexy #Intergenerational #AgeGap #OlderMen #InternationalMarriage #InterGenerationalMarriage #InterfaithMarriage #GayBuddhist

Stewardship Report Withstands Nation-State Cyberattack Targeting Independent Journalism


Independent News Platform Demonstrates Resilience Against Foreign Aggression as Global Authoritarian Regimes Seek to Silence Truth-Telling


New York, N.Y.The Stewardship Report, the subscription-free communications platform of the J. Luce Foundation, successfully defended against a massive cyberattack launched by a foreign nation-state in what security analysts describe as a deliberate attempt to silence one of the few remaining independent voices connecting global civil society.


The attack, which targeted the platform’s infrastructure at www.stewardshipreport.org, failed to take the site offline, demonstrating both the publication’s technical sophistication and the growing threat independent journalism faces in an increasingly authoritarian world.



A Platform Built on Connection Faces Forces of Disconnection

Publisher Jim Luce expressed little surprise at the attack, stating, “We are not surprised that our subscription-free news site has come under cyberattack as we are focused on connecting the world, and many nations would rather it not be connected.” The statement reflects a growing reality for independent media organizations: telling the truth has become a dangerous enterprise in the digital age.

Founded in 2010 under the motto “Connecting Goodness,” The Stewardship Report has evolved into a critical platform for global civil society, environmental advocates, human rights defenders, and those working toward sustainable development.

The publication’s commitment to remaining subscription-free has allowed it to reach audiences in developing nations and conflict zones where paid access would create insurmountable barriers to information.

The irony of the attack has not been lost on the publication’s supporters. One anonymous backer explained with characteristic bluntness: “Stewardship pisses off every authoritarian state equally. China, Russia, North Korea, Hungary, Turkey – you name it, and the platform publishes the raw truth.”

This equal-opportunity approach to accountability journalism has made the publication a target for regimes across the ideological spectrum, from communist dictatorships to illiberal democracies sliding toward authoritarianism.



Understanding The Stewardship Report’s Mission and Reach

The Stewardship Report operates as the primary communications vehicle for the J. Luce Foundation (www.lucefoundation.org), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting global stewardship across environmental, social, and governance domains.

Unlike traditional news outlets focused primarily on breaking news cycles, the platform emphasizes long-form investigative journalism, analysis of global governance challenges, and coverage of civil society initiatives that mainstream media often overlooks.

The publication’s editorial approach combines rigorous reporting with a philosophical framework rooted in the concept of stewardship – the responsible management and protection of resources, communities, and democratic institutions for current and future generations.

This perspective has led to groundbreaking coverage of environmental destruction in the Amazon rainforest, labor abuses in global supply chains, corruption in international development programs, and the erosion of democratic norms in nations from Venezuela to Myanmar.

The readership of The Stewardship Report reflects its global mission.

Analytics data suggests the platform attracts a highly educated, internationally focused audience including nonprofit leaders, United Nations officials, academic researchers, corporate sustainability officers, and policymakers.

Approximately 42% of readers access the site from outside the United States, with significant followings in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

The publication has become required reading in graduate programs focused on international relations, environmental studies, and human rights law at institutions including Columbia University, the London School of Economics, and the University of Cape Town.


The Significance of the Cyberattack

The targeting of The Stewardship Report by a nation-state actor represents a significant escalation in the global war on independent journalism. While the specific attribution remains classified for security reasons, cybersecurity experts familiar with the attack have noted its sophistication, suggesting involvement by a well-resourced intelligence agency rather than independent hackers.

One anonymous cybersecurity analyst who reviewed anonymized data about the attack, explained, “What we’re seeing is a coordinated effort to eliminate independent voices that complicate authoritarian narratives.

The fact that The Stewardship Report remained operational throughout the attack speaks to both their technical preparation and the importance authoritarian regimes place on silencing them.”

The attack employed multiple vectors simultaneously, including distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks designed to overwhelm the site’s servers, attempted SQL injection attacks to compromise databases, and sophisticated phishing campaigns targeting staff members.

The coordination and timing suggest months of reconnaissance and planning by the attacking entity.

What makes this incident particularly noteworthy is the target selection itself. Nation-state actors typically focus their resources on major media organizations, government systems, or critical infrastructure. That a relatively small independent publication would warrant such attention indicates the disproportionate impact The Stewardship Report has achieved in holding powerful actors accountable.


Technical Resilience as Editorial Statement

The fact that The Stewardship Report successfully defended against and continued operating during the attack reveals an often-overlooked aspect of modern journalism: technical security has become as essential as editorial integrity. The publication’s infrastructure, hosted on distributed cloud systems with multiple redundancies, proved equal to the challenge.

Jim Luce has long emphasized that editorial independence requires technological independence.

In a 2023 interview he explained, “If you can be taken offline with a single attack, you’re not truly independent. We’ve invested in security infrastructure that most publications our size would consider unnecessary because we understand that our adversaries aren’t competing newspapers – they’re hostile governments.”

This investment in security includes encrypted communications for sources, distributed server architecture that prevents single points of failure, regular security audits by third-party firms, and staff training in operational security. The publication employs a full-time cybersecurity specialist, unusual for an organization of its size but essential given the nature of its reporting.

The technical sophistication demonstrated during the attack has implications beyond The Stewardship Report itself. As authoritarian regimes become more aggressive in targeting independent media, smaller publications must either develop similar capabilities or face extinction. The attack has sparked conversations in journalism circles about creating shared security infrastructure that could protect multiple independent outlets simultaneously.


Broader Implications for Press Freedom

The attack on The Stewardship Report occurs within a broader context of declining press freedom globally. According to Reporters Without Borders, the number of journalists imprisoned worldwide reached a record high in 2024, while cyberattacks on media organizations increased by 87% compared to 2023. Independent platforms that operate across borders and expose transnational corruption face particular risk.

Maria Ressa, the Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist and co-founder of Rappler, has warned that such attacks represent “the new front in the war on truth.

When authoritarian regimes can’t arrest you, they try to delete you.” The technical dimension of press freedom has become inseparable from its legal and political dimensions.

For The Stewardship Report, the attack has paradoxically increased visibility and readership.

Traffic to the site increased by 340% in the week following news of the attack, as journalists, academics, and concerned citizens sought to understand what content had provoked such extreme retaliation.

The publication has received expressions of support from press freedom organizations including the Committee to Protect Journalists, Amnesty International, and PEN America.



Looking Forward: Defiance and Determination

In a statement released following the attack, the J. Luce Foundation board affirmed its commitment to continuing The Stewardship Report’s mission regardless of external threats. “Those who seek to silence the truth through cyberattacks fundamentally misunderstand the nature of ideas,” the statement read. “Information, once shared, cannot be unshared. Communities, once connected, cannot be disconnected.”

The publication has announced plans to expand its coverage of digital authoritarianism and cyber warfare, turning the attack into a new editorial focus.

Future investigations will examine how authoritarian regimes coordinate cyberattacks against civil society, the private firms that enable such attacks, and the technical countermeasures independent organizations can employ.

For Jim Luce and the team at The Stewardship Report, the attack validates their work while highlighting its risks. “If we weren’t making a difference, they wouldn’t bother attacking us,” Luce noted.

“The fact that authoritarian regimes view a small independent publication as threatening enough to warrant a nation-state level cyberattack tells you everything you need to know about the power of truth.”

As the digital battlefield becomes increasingly central to global conflicts over information and democracy, The Stewardship Report’s successful defense offers both a model and a warning: independent journalism can survive in the face of nation-state aggression, but only with deliberate investment in security infrastructure and unwavering commitment to mission over convenience.

The forces of darkness may have tried to extinguish the light of connection, but in this instance, they failed. The question remains whether other independent platforms will prove equally resilient when their turn comes.


Summary

The Stewardship Report, the J. Luce Foundation’s independent news platform, successfully defended against a major nation-state cyberattack designed to silence its reporting. Founded in 2010 with the motto “Connecting Goodness,” the subscription-free publication has become a target for authoritarian regimes worldwide due to its unflinching coverage of human rights abuses, environmental destruction, and democratic backsliding across multiple continents.


#StewardshipReport #PressFreedom #Cyberattack #IndependentJournalism #MediaResilience
#NationState #AuthoritarianismFails #JLuceFoundation #DigitalSecurity #TruthPrevails

TAGS: nation-state, press freedom, independent journalism, Jim Luce, J. Luce Foundation,
The Stewardship Report, cybersecurity, authoritarian regimes, media resilience, digital security,
cyberattack, human rights, global civil society, distributed denial-of-service, investigative journalism

Social Media Posts

Facebook: The Stewardship Report has successfully defended against a massive nation-state cyberattack designed to silence independent journalism. Founded in 2010 with the motto “Connecting Goodness,” this subscription-free platform has become a target for authoritarian regimes worldwide precisely because it publishes the raw truth about human rights abuses, environmental destruction, and democratic backsliding. Publisher Jim Luce stated: “We are not surprised that our subscription-free news site has come under cyberattack as we are focused on connecting the world, and many nations would rather it not be connected.” The attack’s failure demonstrates both technical resilience and the importance of protecting independent media in an age of rising authoritarianism. Read the full story at www.stewardshipreport.org

Instagram: CYBERATTACK FAILS: The Stewardship Report remains standing after a sophisticated nation-state cyberattack attempted to silence its independent journalism. As one supporter noted, the platform “pisses off every authoritarian state equally” by publishing uncomfortable truths about human rights, environmental destruction, and corruption worldwide. The attack’s failure is a victory for press freedom and demonstrates that truth cannot be easily extinguished, even by well-resourced hostile governments. The platform’s technical resilience matched its editorial courage, proving that independent journalism can survive in the digital age with proper security infrastructure and unwavering commitment to mission. This subscription-free publication continues connecting the world despite forces trying to divide it.

LinkedIn: Professional Network Announcement: The Stewardship Report, the communications platform of the J. Luce Foundation, has successfully defended against a sophisticated nation-state cyberattack targeting independent journalism. This incident highlights the growing intersection of cybersecurity and press freedom, as authoritarian regimes increasingly employ digital weapons against media organizations that expose transnational corruption and human rights abuses. Publisher Jim Luce emphasized that editorial independence requires technological independence, stating the organization has invested in security infrastructure most publications its size would consider unnecessary. The attack’s failure offers important lessons for nonprofits, media organizations, and civil society platforms about the necessity of robust cybersecurity measures in protecting institutional missions. The Stewardship Report continues its work connecting global civil society, demonstrating that technical preparation and editorial courage can prevail against even nation-state level threats.

X / Twitter: BREAKING: The Stewardship Report successfully defends against nation-state cyberattack designed to silence independent journalism. Publisher Jim Luce: “We are focused on connecting the world, and many nations would rather it not be connected.” Platform’s technical resilience proves truth cannot be easily extinguished by authoritarian regimes. Full story at www.stewardshipreport.org

BlueSky: The Stewardship Report just survived a massive nation-state cyberattack aimed at silencing its independent journalism. Founded in 2010 to “Connect Goodness,” this subscription-free platform has become such a thorn in the side of authoritarian regimes worldwide that they launched a sophisticated multi-vector attack. It failed. The technical resilience matched the editorial courage, proving that independent voices can survive even when hostile governments come after them. As one supporter put it: the platform “pisses off every authoritarian state equally” by publishing raw truth. This is what press freedom looks like in the digital age—and it’s winning. Read more: www.stewardshipreport.org

A Father’s Quiet Legacy Builds Homes and Transforms Generations

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Editor John Laing.

New York, N.Y. – The enduring philanthropic legacy of Stanford L. Luce continues to build futures, both structurally and spiritually, in the heart of Ohio, a legacy now punctuated by a powerful, personal story of transformation. The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation, helping steward a donor-advised fund established in his honor, has received its fiscal year 2025 activity report from the Greater Oxford Community Foundation, detailing another year of significant impact through the Stanford L. Luce Habitat for Humanity Fund.


This report, which covers the period ending June 30, 2025, underscores a powerful partnership that transforms charitable contributions into tangible homes and renewed hope, a mission whose profound resonance was revealed to Jim Luce in a moment of profound personal grief. For those inspired to contribute to this cause, support can be provided directly through https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation.

The Moment of Revelation: A Legacy Given a Face and a Future

For Jim Luce, the abstract concept of his father’s philanthropy became stunningly concrete at Stanford L. Luce’s funeral. It was there that the full, multi-generational impact of a single act of charity was revealed in a single conversation.

Dr. Stanford L. Luce (1923-2007) was a French literature scholar teaching at Miami U. of Ohio. See Wikipedia.

Jim Luce states, “At my father’s funeral, a professional-looking woman walked up to me and said, ‘You don’t know who I am, but I wanted to introduce myself to you…

“I was living in my car with my young daughter when your father built a home for me through Habitat. I used that home as a base to put myself through law school and now my daughter is in college. All thanks to your father. I just wanted you to know.’

I was stunned and thanked her sincerely for sharing.”

This encounter transcends anecdote; it is the quintessential validation of philanthropic intent. The story encapsulates the entire mission of the fund named in his father’s honor: that the gift of stable housing is not merely a roof overhead, but a launchpad for human potential.

It provides the foundational stability from which a mother can rebuild her life, earn a law degree, and set her daughter on a path to higher education.

This single narrative gives immeasurable weight to the annual figures and grant details contained within the activity report from the Greater Oxford Community Foundation.


A volunteer for Habitat for Humanity helping construct a home for a family in need. Photo credit: Habitat for Humanity.

A Living Legacy of Shelter and Community Upliftment

The collaboration between the New York-based J. Luce Foundation and the Ohio-based community foundation is a quintessential example of strategic, place-based philanthropy, now infused with this deeply personal understanding of its potential.

Jimmy Carter was Habitat for Humanity’s most prominent and influential volunteer for over 35 years. His hands-on work and advocacy were critical in raising the nonprofit’s profile.

The fund, named for Jim Luce’s father, aligns perfectly with the core missions of both organizations: the J. Luce Foundation‘s focus on global orphan care, arts, and humanitarian aid, and the local foundation’s dedication to improving the quality of life in its specific service area.

By channeling resources through a dedicated fund at the Greater Oxford Community Foundation, the Luce legacy achieves a targeted, locally-informed impact that a national foundation might struggle to administer directly.

“We are grateful for the sustained support represented by the Stanford L. Luce Habitat for Humanity Fund,” said Betsy Hope, Executive Director of the Greater Oxford Community Foundation.

“Donors like Jim Luce and the Foundation he leads are the bedrock upon which our community’s resilience is built. This fund doesn’t just build houses; it builds stability, opportunity, and the very fabric of a stronger community. Stories like the one Jim shares are why we do this work, and we welcome new partners in this mission.”

The official communication from Hope’s office highlighted that, in aggregate, the Greater Oxford Community Foundation has granted more than $8 million to a diverse array of nonprofits.

These grants support critical work in health, basic needs, the arts, social services, education, the environment, and scholarships, creating a holistic support system for the City of Oxford and the townships of Hanover, Milford, Oxford, and Reily. The Foundation has streamlined the process for those wishing to join this effort, with online contributions accepted at https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation.


“Opportunity starts with a home.” Photo credit: Habitat for Humanity.

The Mechanics of a Donor-Advised Fund

For philanthropists and foundations seeking to maximize their impact outside their immediate geographic reach, donor-advised funds (DAFs) held at community foundations offer an efficient and powerful tool. A DAF operates as a charitable investment account.

The donor—in this case, the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation—makes an irrevocable contribution to the fund, receives an immediate tax deduction, and then recommends grants from the fund over time to their chosen public charities, such as the local Habitat for Humanity chapter.

The Greater Oxford Community Foundation handles all the administrative burdens, including record-keeping, financial reporting, and ensuring the grant recipients are in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service (I.R.S.).

This allows the J. Luce Foundation to focus on its overarching philanthropic goals without being mired in the logistical complexities of long-distance grant management.

The annual activity report sent to Jim Luce is a transparent accounting of this process, detailing contributions and the dispersal of funds that directly result in the construction and rehabilitation of homes, each with the potential to create a story as powerful as the one shared at the funeral.

For individual donors who may not wish to establish a separate fund, contributing directly to the foundation’s overarching mission via https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation is a straightforward alternative.


Beyond Bricks and Mortar: The Ripple Effect of Stable Housing

The work funded by the Stanford L. Luce Habitat for Humanity Fund extends far beyond the physical structures it helps to erect, a truth vividly illustrated by the lawyer and her college-bound daughter. Academic studies and social impact reports consistently demonstrate that stable, affordable housing is a primary determinant of life outcomes. For families partnering with Habitat for Humanity, the opportunity to own a home represents a monumental shift.


Children in these households often see improved performance in school, linked to the reduced stress and
constant relocation associated with housing insecurity. Parents can invest more deeply in their careers and
community involvement when they are not facing the threat of eviction or the high cost of unpredictable rent.

The act of “sweat equity,” where future homeowners contribute hundreds of hours of labor building their own homes and their neighbors’ homes, fosters a profound sense of pride, ownership, and community interconnection. This creates a virtuous cycle, strengthening the social and economic vitality of the entire Oxford region. The anonymous woman’s journey from a car to a career is not an outlier; it is the ultimate expression of this ripple effect, an outcome made possible by sustained philanthropic support.


Standford L. Luce and his four children, from l. to r., Stanford C. (“Sandy”), Marian (“Molly”), James (“Jim”), and Richard (“Rick”) at a family gathering in Hueston Woods State Park (c. 1998).

A Model for Strategic, Inter-Foundation Collaboration

The ongoing success of this fund, now emotionally anchored by a profound personal testimony, serves as a compelling model for other philanthropic entities. It illustrates how a foundation with a global or national perspective can effectively partner with a hyper-local organization to create deep, sustainable change in a specific community. The Greater Oxford Community Foundation provides the on-the-ground expertise, understanding local needs, vetting nonprofit partners, and ensuring that the donated capital is deployed with maximum efficacy.


In 2023, the J. Luce Foundation agreed to match grants made over the holiday season.

This symbiotic relationship allows the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation to honor its namesake’s memory in a profound and lasting way, ensuring that the Luce name is synonymous with hope, shelter, and community progress.

The inclusion of a reminder to “remember us in your will” and an envelope for additional contributions in the Foundation’s correspondence points to a long-term vision, inviting continued and future support to compound the fund’s positive impact for generations to come, potentially creating hundreds more untold stories of success.

The foundation has made it easier than ever to participate in this legacy, with a secure online portal at https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation available for immediate contributions.

As community foundations across the U.S. grapple with evolving needs, partnerships with strategic donors like the Luce Foundation are increasingly vital.


The over $8 million in total grants disbursed by the Greater Oxford Community Foundation stands as a testament to what is possible when philanthropic capital is managed wisely and directed compassionately. The story of the Stanford L. Luce Habitat for Humanity Fund is more than an annual report; it is a narrative of partnership, legacy, and the enduring power of a community to build itself up, one home, one family, one future lawyer at a time.


A Father’s Quiet Legacy Builds Homes and Transforms Generations (Sept. 25, 2025)


Greater Oxford Community Foundation FACEBOOK


Summary

The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation continues the philanthropic legacy of Stanford L. Luce through a donor-advised fund at the Greater Oxford Community Foundation. A powerful story revealed at his funeral—of a woman who, with the stability of a Habitat home, became a lawyer and put her daughter through college—illustrates the fund’s profound impact. The FY2025 report details ongoing contributions that build homes and hope in Ohio. Support this mission at https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation.


#CommunityFoundation #HabitatForHumanity #StrategicGiving #OxfordOhio #DonorAdvisedFund
#Philanthropy #SocialImpact #HousingCrisis #LegacyGiving #JamesJayDudleyLuceFoundation

TAGS: Philanthropy, Community Foundation, Donor Advised Fund, Habitat for Humanity, Oxford Ohio, Stanford L. Luce,
Jim Luce, Betsy Hope, Strategic Giving, Social Impact, Housing, Legacy, Nonprofit Management, Charitable Giving


Social Media Posts

Facebook/Instagram:
The legacy of Stanford L. Luce is building futures in Ohio. Jim Luce shares a powerful story from his father’s funeral: a woman, once living in her car, used her Habitat home as a base to become a lawyer and put her daughter through college. This is the impact of the Stanford L. Luce Fund. You can support this transformative work. Link in bio to contribute. #Philanthropy #CommunityFoundation #HabitatForHumanity #OxfordOhio #SocialImpact

LinkedIn:
Strategic philanthropy in action. The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation leverages a donor-advised fund to support Habitat for Humanity. Jim Luce recounts a poignant story revealing the fund’s multi-generational impact: a beneficiary became a lawyer and sent her daughter to college. A powerful model for achieving localized, high-impact social change. Learn more and support at https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation. #StrategicGiving #Philanthropy #CommunityFoundation #SocialImpact #NonprofitManagement

X/Twitter:
“How a Habitat home built a lawyer & a college grad. Jim Luce shares a stunning story from his father’s funeral, revealing the true impact of their donor-advised fund with @OxfordFdn. Support the mission: https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation #CommunityFoundation #Philanthropy #HabitatForHumanity”

BlueSky:
Building community, one home at a time. The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation’s donor-advised fund fuels Habitat for Humanity. A powerful story: a beneficiary used the stability of a home to become a lawyer and put her daughter through college. This is legacy in action. Contribute: https://donorbox.org/oxford-community-foundation #Philanthropy #StrategicGiving #Housing #CommunityFoundation

Trump Attacks Cities: Pauses $2.1 Billion Chicago Transit Funds


Federal Review Targets Race-Based Practices in Key Projects Amid Shutdown Standoff


New York, N.Y. In a move that has ignited fresh controversy over federal funding and equity policies, the Trump administration announced on October 3, 2025, that it is withholding US$2.1 billion earmarked for two major Chicago transit initiatives. The decision, framed as a safeguard against unconstitutional contracting preferences, comes as the U.S. government shutdown enters its third day, with both parties trading accusations of fiscal irresponsibility.


The pause affects the Chicago Transit Authority‘s (CTA) Red Line Extension and the Red and Purple Modernization Project, both critical to modernizing the city’s aging public transportation network.

Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), disclosed the action in a post on X, stating that the funds have been “put on hold to ensure funding is not flowing via race-based contracting.”

Pres. Donald Trump continues to wreak havoc and retribution against Blue states and cities.

This intervention underscores the administration’s broader campaign to dismantle what it describes as discriminatory practices in infrastructure awards, a priority amplified by the ongoing budget impasse in the U.S. Congress.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has initiated an administrative review of the projects, prompted by a newly issued interim final rule that prohibits race- and sex-based contracting requirements in federal grants.

Officials emphasized that the review aims to promote merit-based allocation, allowing projects to proceed once compliance is verified.

However, with federal agencies operating on skeleton staffs due to the shutdown, timelines remain uncertain, potentially delaying construction timelines by months or longer.

This development follows similar freezes on funding for New York City’s Second Avenue Subway and Hudson Tunnel projects, totaling US$18 billion, as well as the termination of US$7.56 billion for 223 energy initiatives across 16 Democratic-led states.

Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, have decried the actions as punitive measures designed to pressure opponents into conceding on spending cuts, transforming routine infrastructure support into a political bargaining chip.


The Projects at Stake: Vital Links for Chicago’s South Side

At the heart of the dispute lie two ambitious undertakings that promise to reshape Chicago‘s transit landscape, particularly in underserved communities. The Red Line Extension, a 5.6-mile (9-km) southward push from its current terminus at 95th Street to 130th Street, would introduce four new stations at 111th, 115th, 127th, and 130th Streets. First conceived in the 1980s and formalized as the locally preferred alternative in August 2009, the project has navigated decades of planning hurdles, environmental reviews, and funding battles.

Estimated at a total cost of US$5.75 billion, the extension received a pivotal US$1.97 billion infusion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in January 2025, enabling the CTA to break ground on preliminary work. Proponents argue it will serve approximately 30,000 daily riders in predominantly Black and low-income neighborhoods, fostering economic development through improved access to jobs, education, and healthcare. “This isn’t just about tracks and trains,” noted Dorval Carter, CTA president, in a January statement celebrating the funding milestone. “It’s about equity and opportunity for communities long overlooked by urban planning.”

Complementing this is the Red and Purple Modernization Project, a US$2.3 billion overhaul of aging infrastructure along the Red and Purple Lines. Spanning 9 miles (14.5 km) from Howard to 95th Streets, it includes signal upgrades, track rehabilitation, and station improvements to boost reliability and capacity by 30%. Federal contributions here total roughly US$130 million, part of the paused US$2.1 billion package. Together, these initiatives represent a cornerstone of Mayor Brandon Johnson‘s vision for a more inclusive Chicago, with projections estimating 10,000 new jobs during construction and long-term reductions in traffic congestion equivalent to removing 50,000 vehicles annually.

The freeze threatens to stall momentum at a delicate juncture. Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Red Line Extension occurred just nine months ago, with early utility relocations underway. Delays could inflate costs by 5-10% annually due to inflation and labor shortages, according to transit experts, while exacerbating reliability issues on lines that already suffer 20% on-time performance deficits during peak hours.


Washington Station of the CTA Blue Line in downtown Chicago. Photo credit: Rondell Molé / Facebook.

Scrutiny of Race-Based Contracting: Legal and Policy Fault Lines

The administration’s rationale hinges on longstanding grievances with affirmative action in public contracting, a practice rooted in the Civil Rights Act of 1964 but increasingly vulnerable to judicial scrutiny. Chicago, like many U.S. municipalities, mandates participation goals for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), which prioritize firms owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals, often categorized by race and ethnicity. For the Red Line projects, the CTA has set targets of 32% DBE participation, drawing from a pool where minority- and women-owned businesses comprise about 40% of certified vendors.

DOT officials contend these quotas violate the Fifth Amendment‘s equal protection clause, echoing the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which curtailed race-conscious admissions in higher education. “Federal dollars must flow based on merit, not identity,” a DOT spokesperson asserted in the agency’s rule announcement. The interim measure, effective immediately, requires grantees to certify compliance or face reimbursement halts—a policy the administration vows to enforce rigorously across all infrastructure programs.

Legal challenges to such programs predate the current impasse. In Chicago, a 2022 lawsuit by the American Alliance for Equal Rights targeted DBE preferences in O’Hare International Airport expansions, alleging reverse discrimination against non-minority firms. Though dismissed on procedural grounds, it spotlighted tensions: proponents cite data showing DBE goals increase minority procurement from 10% to 25% without compromising quality, while opponents point to studies indicating 15% cost premiums in some cases. Nationally, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights has warned that post-SFFA rulings could invalidate 70% of state and local set-aside programs, potentially reshaping US$100 billion in annual contracts.

For the CTA, the review process involves auditing bid documents, subcontractor lists, and waiver requests—tasks complicated by the shutdown’s furlough of 800 DOT personnel. If violations are found, funds could be redirected or clawed back, a scenario that Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker labeled “hostage-taking” in a preliminary statement, vowing legal recourse if delays persist beyond 60 days. See: J.B. Pritzker of Illinois: A Progressive Philanthropist (July 10, 2023)


Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, President Donald Trump, and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Photo credit: file photos.

Political Ramifications: Shutdown as Leverage in Budget Wars

This funding pause emerges against the backdrop of a fractious government shutdown that began at midnight on September 30, 2025, after Senate Republicans blocked a bipartisan continuing resolution. The standoff pits President Donald Trump‘s demands for US$50 billion in discretionary spending reductions against Democratic insistence on protecting social programs and clean energy investments. With the House canceling votes through next week and the Senate adjourning until Monday, October 6, prospects for resolution appear dim, potentially idling 2 million federal workers and disrupting services from national parks to Social Security payments.

Administration allies portray the infrastructure reviews as principled governance, not retaliation. Vought, a architect of Project 2025‘s fiscal blueprint, argued on X that Democrats’ “budget hostage-taking” necessitates such safeguards to prevent “woke” policies from siphoning taxpayer resources. Yet the geographic pattern—targeting blue strongholds like Chicago (85% Democratic in 2024 midterms) and New York (78%)—has fueled charges of partisanship. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer decried the moves as “extortion,” estimating US$25 billion in cumulative impacts on Democratic districts.

Analysts see echoes of the 2018-2019 shutdown, when Trump withheld US$800 million from California wildfire aid, drawing rebukes from the Government Accountability Office. A Pew Research Center poll conducted October 2 found 62% of respondents blaming congressional Democrats for the current impasse, up 8% from September, though urban voters in affected cities registered 55% disapproval of the pauses. As negotiations stall, the White House has signaled readiness for further cuts, including potential furloughs in the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Housing and Urban Development.


Local Impacts and Stakeholder Reactions: A City on Edge

In Chicago, the announcement rippled through city hall and transit advocates, amplifying anxieties over mobility and equity. The Red Line Extension was hailed as a triumph of the Biden-Harris era’s infrastructure push, with community leaders crediting it for projected US$3.5 billion in economic ripple effects over 25 years, including 4,000 permanent jobs. “These projects aren’t luxuries—they’re lifelines for working families,” said Alderman Pat Dowell, whose ward encompasses the extension corridor, in a press conference October 3. The CTA, serving 1.5 million daily riders, faces immediate cash-flow strains, with officials warning of deferred maintenance that could spike breakdowns by 15%.

Business groups, including the Building Trades Council, expressed mixed sentiments: while supportive of anti-discrimination reviews, they cautioned against politicizing essential work. “Merit matters, but so does timely funding,” remarked council executive Bob Reiter. Environmental advocates, meanwhile, highlighted the projects’ role in cutting emissions by 20% along the corridor through modal shifts from cars.

As the shutdown persists, Chicago joins a roster of cities bracing for fallout. With federal reimbursements frozen, the CTA may tap reserves or seek state bridges, but Illinois‘s US$50 billion budget already strains under pension obligations. Broader implications loom for national transit: the American Public Transportation Association estimates that unresolved pauses could jeopardize 500,000 construction jobs nationwide by year’s end.

In the end, this episode encapsulates the fragility of U.S. infrastructure financing, where policy ideals collide with political realities. As Congress reconvenes, the fate of Chicago‘s tracks—and the riders who depend on them—hangs in the balance, a stark reminder that progress often travels at the speed of compromise.


Trump Attacks Cities: Pauses $2.1 Billion Chicago Transit Funds (Oct. 3, 2025)


Summary

In a bold escalation of the 2025 government shutdown, the Trump administration has frozen US$2.1 billion for Chicago’s Red Line Extension and modernization projects, citing race-based contracting concerns. As Democratic-led cities bear the brunt, stakeholders warn of economic setbacks and equity erosion. With Congress deadlocked, the pause threatens decades of planning, underscoring tensions between merit-based reforms and inclusive development goals.


#ChicagoTransit #TrumpShutdown #InfrastructureFunding #RaceBasedContracting #GovernmentImpasse

TAGS: Chicago, Infrastructure, Trump Administration, Government Shutdown, Transit Projects, Affirmative Action



Facebook Post: The Trump administration’s pause on US$2.1 billion for Chicago’s vital transit projects raises alarms over equity and economy. Dive into our analysis of the Red Line Extension’s uncertain future amid the shutdown. What does this mean for urban mobility? Read more: [link to article] #ChicagoTransit #InfrastructureFunding

Instagram Post: Frozen tracks, stalled progress: Trump’s US$2.1B hold on Chicago’s Red Line Extension hits South Side hard. Explore the politics behind race-based contracting reviews. Swipe for key facts. Link in bio. #TrumpShutdown #ChicagoTransit

LinkedIn Post: As the U.S. government shutdown intensifies, the Trump administration’s withholding of US$2.1 billion for Chicago infrastructure underscores tensions in federal contracting. This affects critical transit upgrades, with implications for job creation and urban equity. Professionals in policy and construction: How might this reshape grant compliance? Full story: [link to article] #Infrastructure #PublicPolicy #GovernmentShutdown

X / Twitter Post: Trump admin halts $2.1B Chicago transit funds over race-based contracting—Red Line Extension in limbo as shutdown drags on. Equity vs. merit? Our deep dive: [link to article] #ChicagoTransit #TrumpShutdown (147 characters)

BlueSky Post: In the 2025 shutdown saga, Trump’s freeze on Chicago’s $2.1B transit projects spotlights contracting debates. Red Line delays could cost jobs and access. Balanced take here: [link to article] #InfrastructureFunding #GovernmentImpasse


U.N. Refugee Chief: Legal Violations in U.S. Deportation Policy


Shrinking Funding And Rising Needs Threaten Global Refugee Protections


New York, N.Y. — The chief of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (U.N.H.C.R.), Filippo Grandi, delivered a stark warning Monday that certain U.S. deportation practices under President Donald Trump’s administration may violate international law. Amid an era marked by drastic funding cuts and a rising tide of global displacement, Grandi’s remarks in Geneva come as the international legal and humanitarian systems face growing neglect from some of the wealthiest nations, even as conflict and repression send record numbers fleeing their homes.

U.N. Refugee Agency Slashes Workforce Amid Budget Crisis

At UNHCR’s annual executive committee meeting, Filippo Grandi lamented that severe funding shortfalls have forced the agency to cut nearly 5,000 jobs over the past year — almost a quarter of its workforce.

He noted that additional reductions may be unavoidable as the organization projects ending 2025 with just US$3.9 billion (3.7 billion EUR) in available funding, a drop from the previous year’s total.

Despite ongoing emergencies in Sudan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Uganda, Venezuela, and Ukraine, the U.N.H.C.R. has received only about half the US$8 billion (7.5 billion EUR) it needs annually — even as worldwide displacement nearly doubles to 122 million people over the past decade.

“These cuts are not simply numbers; they represent the diminishing ability to protect and support the most vulnerable,” Grandi said. “This has certainly been a challenging year for all of us. But please keep in mind: There has never been an easy year for refugees – and there never will be.”


U.S. military plane deporting Indian immigrants lands in Amritsar, India.

Trump Administration Policies Clash With Asylum Law

Grandi did highlight some positive developments, praising Trump administration-led peace efforts in Congo, which have provided a “glimmer of hope” for over a million displaced individuals able to return home recently.

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (U.N.H.C.R.) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Photo credit: U.N.H.C.R.

However, he criticized the U.S. for its sharp reduction in humanitarian aid and its call at the U.N. General Assembly to overhaul the international asylum system, arguing it has been exploited and must be tightened.

“I am worried that the current debate – in Europe, for example – and some current deportation practices – such as those in the United States – address real challenges in manners not consistent with international law,” Grandi said.

He underscored that any measures must remain lawful, even as nations face rising migration pressures.

The Trump administration, while claiming a duty to remove the “worst of the worst,” has advanced policies that many rights groups and international experts say contravene both the letter and spirit of the 1951 Refugee Convention, which obligates signatory countries to protect individuals fleeing war, persecution, and violence.

Grandi’s term ends this December, and as he prepares to step down, he warns that challenging the principles of the Convention would be “a catastrophic error” for those seeking refuge.


Children housed in U.S. Immigration Detention Center.

Majority Of Refugees Sheltered By Poorer Countries

Grandi noted most refugees continue to be welcomed not by the richest nations but by developing countries, who bear a disproportionate burden even as respect for international law erodes among wealthier states. U.N.H.C.R. data shows just over one million Syrian refugees have returned home, despite persistent instability, and there is cautious optimism regarding renewed U.S.-backed peace efforts in eastern Congo. Yet, the global humanitarian system remains threatened by donor fatigue, diminishing legal protections, and rising anti-migrant sentiment.


The Trump administration is deporting undocumented immigrants, including those accused of being gang members and some without U.S. criminal records, to El Salvador’s Center for Terrorism Confinement (CECOT) mega-prison. CECOT is known for its harsh conditions, including overcrowding, lack of privacy, and restricted communication with the outside world.

Political Division Threatens Asylum, Humanitarian Response

The current climate is deeply polarized. Grandi emphasized that national sovereignty and the right to seek asylum are “not mutually exclusive; they complement each other.” The U.N. refugee chief cautions that undermining international frameworks for refugee protection could dangerously upend the balance that has protected millions over decades. He pressed for more inclusive host-country policies that grant access to services, employment, and freedom of movement — arguing these investments yield economic and social dividends for all.


The chief of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (U.N.H.C.R.), Filippo Grandi, delivered a stark warning Monday that certain U.S. deportation practices under President Donald Trump’s administration may violate international law. Photo credit: United Nations.

Calls To Restore U.S. Leadership In Humanitarian Aid

The Trump administration has yet to release public findings from its foreign aid review, but key support for UNHCR, UNFPA, and partner agencies remains suspended or sharply reduced.


United Nations experts have called on the U.S. to urgently recommit to its leading role in global
humanitarian affairs, warning that its foreign aid freezes and U.N.-directed budget cuts are
resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths and scaling back life-saving programs for millions.


Grandi concluded, “Thanks to peace initiatives led by the United States, instead of solely discussing further violence or additional refugees, we can start to cautiously, albeit more optimistically, consider stability and repatriation.”


Summary For Audio File

UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi says certain deportation practices under President Trump may violate international law, as the refugee agency faces funding cuts and rising global displacement. Grandi warns undermining asylum law could have catastrophic consequences. Most refugees remain hosted by developing nations, with some hope for returns in Syria and Congo. He urges renewed U.S. humanitarian leadership as donor fatigue and political division threaten international protections.


#RefugeeRights #AsylumLaw #UNHCR #GlobalDisplacement #HumanitarianAid
#TrumpAdministration #InternationalLaw #PeaceEfforts #FilippoGrandi #FundingCuts

TAGS: U.S. refugee law, Trump administration, funding cuts,
UNHCR, Filippo Grandi, asylum, Congo, humanitarian aid


Social Media Posts

Facebook:
U.N.H.C.R. chief Filippo Grandi warns that U.S. deportation practices under President Trump’s administration may breach international law. With the agency facing unprecedented funding cuts and a global surge in refugees, Grandi calls for renewed American leadership and respect for legal protections. Read more on stewardshipreport.org.

Instagram:
U.N.H.C.R. leader Filippo Grandi says U.S. deportation policies could violate international law. As global displacement soars and funding shrinks, the need for humanitarian action and legal protection has never been greater. #RefugeeRights #UNHCR #TrumpAdministration

LinkedIn:
Filippo Grandi, U.N.H.C.R. chief, cautions that certain deportation measures under President Trump’s administration may conflict with international law amid dramatic agency budget cuts and global migration. Grandi urges the U.S. to renew its commitment to humanitarian aid and lawful asylum. Read the full analysis at stewardshipreport.org.

X / Twitter:
U.N.H.C.R. head Filippo Grandi warns U.S. deportation policies breach international law as agency slashes workforce due to funding cuts. World leaders must restore protection for refugees. #UNHCR #AsylumLaw #TrumpAdministration

BlueSky:
U.N.H.C.R. chief Filippo Grandi: U.S. deportation practices risk violating international law as funding shortages threaten global refugee services. Urgent need for humanitarian renewal.


Netherlands Returns Historic “Java Man” Fossils to Indonesia


Dutch Government Pledges Repatriation of 28,000 Colonial-Era Specimens Including Landmark Human Evolution Discovery


New York, N.Y. – The Netherlands announced Friday its commitment to return approximately 28,000 fossils from the renowned “Dubois Collection” to Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in international efforts to repatriate colonial-era artifacts. The collection includes the historic remains of “Java Man,” the first Homo erectus specimens discovered by modern scientists in what became a cornerstone find for understanding human evolution.


Colonial Excavation Under Controversial Circumstances

Reconstruction of “Java Man,” scientifically known as Homo erectus. This iconic fossil was discovered by Dutch paleoanthropologist Eugène Dubois on the Indonesian island of Java in the early 1890s, consisting of a skullcap, a femur, and teeth. 

The fossils were excavated in 1891 by Dutch anatomist and geologist Eugene Dubois during Indonesia’s colonial period under Netherlands rule.

Working in what is now Indonesia, Dubois employed convict labor to unearth the specimens that would revolutionize paleontological science and challenge prevailing theories about human origins.

The discovery included Java Man’s skull cap, molar, and femur—crucial evidence that enabled scientists to reconstruct Homo erectus, or “upright human,” a species that lived from approximately 1.9 million to 150,000 years ago.

These fossils provided the first established scientific link between apes and humans, fundamentally altering understanding of human evolutionary history.

“The circumstances under which the fossils were obtained make it likely that they were taken away against the will of the population,” stated the Dutch culture ministry in Friday’s announcement.

The ministry emphasized that “fossils were of spiritual and economic significance to the local population,” acknowledging the cultural importance of these specimens beyond their scientific value.


Scientific Significance and Historical Controversy

The Java Man discovery sparked intense scientific debate when Dubois first presented the findings to the international community.

The fossils challenged the then-dominant belief that human civilization emerged exclusively in Europe and Africa, suggesting instead that human evolution occurred across multiple continents simultaneously.

The specimens became the type fossils for Homo erectus, establishing this species as a crucial link in the human evolutionary chain.

Modern analysis has confirmed that these early humans possessed advanced toolmaking capabilities and were among the first to migrate out of Africa, spreading across Asia and establishing settlements throughout the Indonesian archipelago.

The discovery’s impact extended far beyond paleontology, influencing fields ranging from anthropology to philosophy as scholars grappled with new evidence about humanity’s origins and development.

The fossils provided concrete evidence for Charles Darwin’s evolutionary theories, published just decades earlier.


Dutch Independent Colonial Collections Committee Recommendations

The Dutch Independent Colonial Collections Committee conducted extensive research into the collection’s origins and recommended repatriation based on their findings. The committee determined that the fossils were removed without proper consent from local authorities or communities, falling under current international standards for cultural property repatriation.


The decision reflects broader efforts by former colonial powers to address historical injustices and return
culturally significant artifacts to their countries of origin. The committee’s recommendation considered both
the circumstances of acquisition and the ongoing cultural significance of the fossils to Indonesian communities.

“This repatriation acknowledges the colonial context in which these specimens were removed and recognizes Indonesia’s rightful claim to these important pieces of human heritage,” explained committee members in their formal recommendation to the Dutch government.


“Java Man,” or Homo erectus fossils. Photo credit: Peter Maas / Wikimedia Commons.

Broader Pattern of Dutch Repatriations

The Java Man return continues a recent trend of Dutch repatriations of colonial-era artifacts.

Earlier this year, the Netherlands returned 119 ancient sculptures to Nigeria, including priceless “Benin Bronzes“—metal and ivory sculptures dating to the 16th century that were removed from the former Kingdom of Benin more than 120 years ago.

These repatriations represent part of a comprehensive review of Dutch museum collections acquired during the colonial period. The process involves examining acquisition circumstances, consulting with origin communities, and developing frameworks for returning culturally significant items.

The Dutch approach has become a model for other European nations grappling with similar colonial-era collections. Museums across the Netherlands are actively reviewing their holdings and working with international partners to identify items suitable for repatriation.


Indonesian Independence and Cultural Reclamation

Indonesia declared independence in August 1945 after three centuries of Dutch colonial rule, though Dutch recognition only occurred in 1949 following four years of armed conflict. The return of the Java Man fossils symbolizes ongoing efforts to address colonial legacies and restore cultural heritage to formerly colonized nations.

For Indonesia, the repatriation represents both scientific and cultural significance. The fossils are central to understanding the region’s role in human evolution and provide tangible connections to ancient Indonesian history. Local communities have long maintained spiritual and cultural connections to these archaeological sites.

The Indonesian government has invested significantly in developing paleontological research capabilities and museum infrastructure to properly house and study the returned specimens. Plans include establishing research partnerships with international institutions while maintaining Indonesian oversight of the collections.


The iconic fossil of “Java Man,” scientifically known as Homo erectus, was discovered by Dutch paleoanthropologist Eugène Dubois on the Indonesian island of Java in the early 1890s.

Impact on Future Paleontological Research

The repatriation raises important questions about international scientific collaboration and access to crucial evolutionary evidence. While the fossils will return to Indonesian custody, researchers expect continued international cooperation in studying these specimens.

Modern technology enables new analytical techniques that were unavailable during Dubois’s era, potentially revealing additional insights about early human evolution. Advanced imaging, genetic analysis, and comparative studies could provide new understanding of Homo erectus populations and their relationship to other early human species.

The return also highlights the importance of conducting paleontological research within ethical frameworks that respect local communities and acknowledge indigenous knowledge systems. Future excavations in Indonesia will likely involve collaborative approaches that include local expertise and community participation.


Timeline and Implementation

The Dutch government has not announced specific timelines for the physical transfer of the fossils, though officials indicated that detailed planning is underway. The process will likely involve extensive documentation, conservation assessment, and coordination between Dutch and Indonesian institutions.

Preparation for the transfer includes ensuring appropriate storage and research facilities in Indonesia, training programs for Indonesian researchers, and development of long-term conservation strategies. The complexity of moving such significant and fragile specimens requires careful planning and international cooperation.

The repatriation will also involve legal processes to formally transfer ownership and establish frameworks for ongoing scientific access. These agreements will likely serve as models for future repatriation efforts involving scientifically significant collections.


Netherlands Returns Historic “Java Man” Fossils to Indonesia (Sept. 12, 2025)


Audio Summary

The Netherlands announced Friday its commitment to return 28,000 fossils from the historic Dubois Collection to Indonesia, including the landmark Java Man remains discovered in 1891. The fossils, taken during Dutch colonial rule without local consent, include crucial Homo erectus specimens that revolutionized understanding of human evolution. The Dutch Independent Colonial Collections Committee recommended repatriation, acknowledging the fossils’ spiritual and economic significance to local populations. This continues broader Dutch efforts to return colonial-era artifacts, following earlier repatriation of Benin Bronzes to Nigeria.


#JavaMan #Indonesia #Netherlands #Repatriation #ColonialHistory
#Paleontology #HomoErectus #CulturalHeritage #MuseumReturns #Evolution

TAGS: Java Man, Netherlands, fossil repatriation, colonial artifacts, Homo erectus, Eugene Dubois, cultural heritage,
Indonesia, paleontology, human evolution, Dutch colonies, museum collections, Benin Bronzes, international repatriation


Netanyahu U.N. Visit Sparks NYC Protests Over Gaza Genocide


Thousands March Demanding Accountability, U.S. Aid Suspension Amid U.N. General Assembly


New York, N.Y. — Thousands converged on the streets of New York City on Friday, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s appearance at the United Nations General Assembly ignited one of the city’s largest protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza since the outbreak of war nearly two years ago.

—————

The demonstration, marked by calls for Netanyahu’s arrest on war crimes charges and an immediate halt to U.S. support for Israel, swelled to nearly 2,000 people according to police estimates, with substantial blocks of Midtown Manhattan brought to a standstill amid chants for justice and escalating international scrutiny of Israel’s government.


Protesters Call for Arrest, End to U.S. Support

Protesters assembled early in Times Square, waving Palestinian flags and carrying hand-painted signs denouncing the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

As the day progressed, the crowd surged east toward the U.N. headquarters, occupying major arteries like 42nd Street and chanting, “Netanyahu you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide,” and “Stop starving Gaza now!”

Organizers reported genuine alarm among the city’s residents about ongoing Israeli military operations, the restricting of critical aid, and the suffering of children in the besieged territory.

Participants ranged widely in age and background; many expressed deep disappointment that Netanyahu had not been brought before The Hague amid International Criminal Court proceedings.

Inside the U.N. Assembly, the impact of the protests was immediately apparent. As Netanyahu began his speech, dozens of national delegations staged a public walkout, leaving large sections of the auditorium empty and drawing cheers from demonstrators outside.

Many held up new banners, linking the lack of accountability for alleged war crimes directly to continued U.S. military aid, which has topped US$3.3 billion (roughly 3.09 billion euros) per year since the war began.


Voices From the Protest: International and Local Response

On the sidelines, a group of New Yorkers formed an ad hoc Hague Group, pressing for concrete actions such as targeted sanctions against Israel.

Al-Sharif Nassef, speaking for the Palestine Movement – NYC, underlined that “demonstrations play a crucial role in creating political momentum for real change.”

Others reflected outrage at being unable to force legal accountability through local or federal law enforcement, given the U.S.’s non-signatory status to the ICC treaty that would allow arrest warrants against foreign leaders to be executed on U.S. soil.

Many expressed concern that the city’s mayor had welcomed Netanyahu, even as local mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani used the moment to call for enforcement of international law and support for Palestinian rights.

Counterprotesters supporting Israel were present but contained by NYPD officers, ensuring only limited interaction between opposing groups.

“Witnessing this unfold shatters my heart. I don’t understand why everyone isn’t here,” said David Robinson, 64, a Brooklyn resident, voicing a sentiment echoed by many at the demonstration.



International Context: U.N. Diplomacy and Walkout

Netanyahu’s speech at the UN was widely viewed as a flashpoint for both international diplomacy and political theater. Offering a map he called “The Curse,” Netanyahu condemned Western nations’ recent recognition of Palestinian statehood, accusing them of encouraging terrorism.

His refusal to accept U.N. calls for a ceasefire or unimpeded humanitarian access has intensified criticism, especially after an ICC arrest warrant was issued last year for alleged crimes against humanity in Gaza — charges Israel denies.

Delegates from Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, and others left the General Assembly as Netanyahu spoke, while official US representatives remained but were noticeably limited to lower-level diplomats. Outside, the protest in Manhattan amplified demands for accountability, reflecting a global outcry against the humanitarian effects of the Israeli military campaign.



Humanitarian Impact and Local Sentiment

Speakers at the rally included New Yorkers whose families remain under siege in the West Bank and Gaza. Meagan Fredette held a sign reading “Is baby formula Hamas???” as she recounted loss of access to food and medical supplies, tying Israeli restrictions to reports of severe famine as confirmed by U.N. monitors.

Additional demonstrators highlighted multiethnic solidarity, displaying flags from Colombia and Ireland, countries that have backed Palestinian rights.

Protest organizers argued that ongoing American assistance must be reevaluated in light of famine conditions, widespread displacement, and mounting death tolls estimated in the tens of thousands.

Pro-Palestinian candidates used the platform to press for a complete arms embargo, while city officials remained cautious in statements, balancing condemnation of civilian suffering with calls for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.


The chanting echoed through the canyon’s of Midtown Manhattan: “Netanyahu you can’t hide, we charge you with genocide.”

Netanyahu U.N. Visit Sparks NYC Protests Over Gaza Genocide (Sept. 26, 2025)


Summary for Audio File

Thousands protested in Midtown Manhattan during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s U.N. General Assembly speech, demanding his arrest for alleged war crimes and suspension of U.S. aid to Israel amid Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Delegates walked out of the UN session in solidarity, amplifying calls for international accountability and an immediate end to military operations that have led to tens of thousands of casualties and severe famine in Gaza, while local leaders and activists pressed for sanctions and a reassessment of foreign policy.


#NetanyahuUNProtest #NYCProtests #EndAidToIsrael #GazaCrisis #AccountabilityNow #HumanghtsNYC
TAGS: netanyahu, gaza crisis, new york city, united nations, war crimes, protests, palestine, international law,
US aid, hostages, famine, genocide, times square, hague,mayoral election, zohran mamdani, eric adams,
ICC, sanctions, israeli delegation, walkout, humanitarian crisis, foreign policy, arms embargo, activism


Jim Luce Writes on Growing Up in the 1960s

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Born in 1959, contemporary writer and philanthropist Jim Luce, known for his contributions to major publications and his work as founder of Orphans International, brings a personal perspective to the transformative decade of the 1960s. Drawing from his own experiences during this pivotal era in American history, Luce reflects on coming of age during a time of profound social change, cultural revolution, and musical innovation. His writing captures the essence of growing up amid the backdrop of civil rights movements, Vietnam War protests, and the explosive creativity that defined the decade’s youth culture and artistic expression.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Luce-Signature-dark-blue.jpg

  1. Memory’s Flight Path: Why Childhood Cartoons Echo Through Adult Minds (Sept. 12, 2025)

Jim Luce Writes on a Hundred Different Things


Follow Jim Luce on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X (Twitter).


© 2024 The Stewardship Report on Connecting Goodness – Towards Global Citizenship is published by The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation Supporting & Educating Young Global Leaders is affiliated with Orphans International Worldwide, Raising Global Citizens. If supporting youth is important to you, subscribe to J. Luce Foundation updates here.


Indonesia Reclaims Its Global Voice at a Fractured United Nations


In a historic return to the U.N. General Assembly podium, President Prabowo Subianto channels a legacy of nonalignment to advocate for Palestine and a new multilateral order


New York, N.Y. – A world grappling with resurgent conflicts, economic uncertainty, and a crisis of trust in international institutions received a potent reminder of a different path this week. From the iconic green marble podium of the United Nations General AssemblyIndonesia’s newly elected leader, President Prabowo Subianto delivered a speech that was as much a reintroduction of his nation to the world stage as it was a clarion call for a more just and inclusive global order.


For the first time in a decade, an Indonesian president addressed the assembly, signaling a strategic and philosophical re-engagement with multilateralism at a time when it is under significant strain.

The address, positioned between speeches from the populist firebrandism of U.S. President Donald Trump [Luce Index™ score: 35/100] and the leftist pragmatism of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva [Luce Index™ score: 81/100], carved out a distinct space for Indonesia—the world’s third-largest democracy and a rising economic power.

It was a performance steeped in historical resonance, deliberately echoing the revolutionary spirit of Indonesia’s founding father, President Sukarno [Luce Index™ score: 87/100], who in 1960 commanded the same stage with his landmark address, “To Build the World Anew.”


A Legacy of “Bebas-Aktif” on the World Stage

The philosophical bedrock of Indonesia’s foreign policy for decades has been the principle of bebas-aktif, or “independent and active.” This doctrine of nonalignment insists that the nation not entangle itself in the military pacts and power blocs of major global powers, instead pursuing its own interests through assertive diplomacy and bridge-building. In a contemporary context defined by the escalating rivalry between the U.S. and ChinaIndonesia’s stance is not one of passive neutrality but of active, principled independence.

In a viewpoint piece for The Jakarta Post published ahead of the address, Fadli Zon, the nation’s Minister of Culture, framed this return as a necessity.

“Today’s global landscape is more complex than ever, characterized by turbulent challenges and unpredictable storms that no nation can face alone,” Zon wrote.

Fadli Zon, Minister of Culture. Photo credit: Indonesian Ministry of Culture.

He pointedly critiqued the “persistence of unilateralism,” where countries act on “narrow self-interest without regard for international law,” as a fundamental threat to global stability.

President Prabowo’s speech was the practical embodiment of this critique.

He articulated a vision for a world where the “dynamic rise of emerging economic powers” fosters a “more diverse and interconnected global landscape,” one where no single nation stands above another.

This vision directly challenges the remnants of the post-Cold War unipolar moment and advocates for a multipolar world where leadership is collective and diverse.


The Centrality of Palestine and a Stance Against “Double Standards”

No issue more powerfully illustrated Indonesia’s commitment to this principled stance than its unequivocal position on Palestine. President Prabowo left no room for ambiguity, condemning the “double standards in international politics” that have, in Jakarta’s view, allowed the plight of the Palestinian people to persist.

He rooted this position in Indonesia’s own national identity, recalling the opening lines of its 1945 Constitution, which states that “independence is the inalienable right of all nations, and that colonialism must be abolished.”


Minister Zon’s article provided a poignant cultural framing to this political stance, lamenting
that Palestinians have “not only been targeted by military occupation and genocide for more than
seven decades, but by a systemic destruction of civilization: its history, memory, and heritage.”
This elevates the conflict from a purely territorial dispute to an assault on a people’s very existence.


Beyond rhetoric, Indonesia sought to demonstrate its commitment through tangible action.

President Prabowo announced the nation’s readiness to contribute over 20,000 personnel to a potential U.N.-mandated peacekeeping force in Gaza.

This is a substantial pledge, underscoring a willingness to back diplomacy with boots on the ground.

Furthermore, he highlighted ongoing humanitarian missions, such as the Garuda Merah Putih-II, and scholarship programs for Palestinian students, presenting a holistic approach to supporting what he reiterated is the only viable solution: a two-state solution.


The Imperative for U.N. Reform and Inclusive Governance

A recurring theme throughout the Indonesian delegation’s diplomatic push was the urgent need for reform of the United Nations itself, particularly its powerful Security Council. The current structure, a relic of the immediate post-World War II order, is widely seen as unrepresentative of 21st-century geopolitical realities. The veto power held by the five permanent members—the U.S., Russia, China, France, and the U.K.—has often paralyzed the body, especially on issues related to the Middle East.

President Prabowo argued that for the U.N. to retain its legitimacy and effectiveness, it must become more efficient, transparent, and inclusive. “These realities highlight the urgent need for U.N. reforms,” Minister Zon concurred in his writing, “particularly through restructuring the Security Council to reflect today’s geopolitical realities.”

This call for reform is a central plank of Indonesia’s, and many other emerging powers’, vision for a renewed multilateralism that can effectively manage global challenges from climate change to pandemic response.

This push for a more balanced global governance structure was framed not as a rejection of the West but as a call for all great civilizations to step up. President Prabowo explicitly invoked the “world’s great civilizations – the Western, Eastern, American, European, Indian, Persian, Chinese, and Islamic” to rise to their “historic responsibilities with statesmanship marked by wisdom, restraint, and humility.”


Many of my fellow Americans are unaware of the size of Indonesia’s 13,000 islands – stretching the length of distance between Portland Maine and Portland Oregon.

A Vision of Unity in Diversity for a Complex Future

Underpinning the political and diplomatic arguments was a profound philosophical message about unity in diversity. As a vast archipelago of over 17,000 islands, hundreds of ethnic groups, and multiple major religions, Indonesia itself is a microcosm of the world’s complexities.

Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” included in the National emblem of Indonesia, the Garuda Pancasila.

President Prabowo’s assertion at the U.N.G.A. that “despite our diverse backgrounds, we are united as one human family” was not merely aspirational but drawn from the national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (“Unity in Diversity”).

Minister Zon elaborated on this, noting that “peace and diversity are deeply interconnected.”

While acknowledging that diversity can be a source of friction, he argued it is ultimately “a powerful force that unites nations in building just, inclusive, and harmonious societies.”

This perspective offers an antidote to the rising polarization and nationalist isolationism witnessed in many parts of the globe.

As the world looks toward 2030 and the looming deadlines for the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals, the challenges are undeniably vast and interconnected. 

Indonesia, through its return to the center stage of global diplomacy, has positioned itself not as a mere participant but as a proactive architect of the international system.

By championing a foreign policy grounded in its own hard-won independence, advocating relentlessly for the disenfranchised, and calling for institutional reform, it offers a vision of global stewardship rooted in cooperation, shared responsibility, and a fundamental respect for the equal dignity of all nations and peoples. The world, fractured and in search of direction, appears ready to listen.


Then-Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto (second right) receives a visit from Chief of the Palestinian Civil Police, Major General Yousef al-Helou (second left), at the Ministry of Defense Office, in Jakarta, on September 26, 2023. Photo credit: Media Prabowo Subianto.

Indonesia Reclaims Its Global Voice at a Fractured United Nations (Sept. 24, 2025)


Summary

In a historic address at the U.N. General Assembly, Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto marked his nation’s return to the global stage after a decade-long absence. Channeling the spirit of founding father Soekarno, he championed a foreign policy of nonalignment and multilateral cooperation. The speech was a forceful condemnation of unilateralism and double standards, with a central focus on advocating for Palestinian statehood and offering Indonesian peacekeepers. The address also served as a call for urgent reform of the U.N. Security Council to better reflect modern geopolitical realities, positioning Indonesia as a key voice for a more just and inclusive world order.


#IndonesiaUNGA #PrabowoSubianto #Multilateralism #UNReform
#Palestine #Nonalignment #GlobalLeadership #ForeignPolicy #Gaza

TAGS: Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, United Nations General Assembly, UNGA, Foreign Policy, Multilateralism, Geopolitics
Nonalignment, Palestine, Gaza, Two-State Solution, UN Reform, Security Council, Soekarno, Fadli Zon, Global Governance


Young Global Leader Transforms Global Quantum Computing Education


Chilean Entrepreneur Builds Bridge Between Students And Complex Technology Through Girls In Quantum Initiative


New York, N.Y. – At an age when most students are discovering their academic interests, Elisa Torres Durney founded an international network dedicated to quantum computing education. The Chilean social entrepreneur has built Girls in Quantum into a global phenomenon that has reached more than 7,000 students across 27 countries, democratizing access to one of technology’s most complex and promising fields.


Torres Durney serves as founder and C.E.O. of Girls in Quantum, a global non-profit committed to advancing quantum education with a specific focus on empowering women in STEM.

Her organization represents a revolutionary approach to addressing the gender gap in emerging technologies while making quantum computing accessible to young minds worldwide.

The journey began during the global pandemic when Torres Durney discovered quantum computing through I.B.M.’s Qubit x Qubit program.

In 2021, she completed IBM’s Introduction to Quantum Computing program, an experience that opened her eyes to the transformative potential of quantum technology across multiple industries including pharmacology, medicine, finance, and climate change solutions.

“I started Girls in Quantum after I had the great opportunity to receive a scholarship and participate in an introductory program on Quantum Computing. This course opened my eyes to how this technology can impact us in the future,” Torres Durney explained in a recent interview.


Torres Durney serves as founder and C.E.O. of Girls in Quantum at Duke University in North Carolina with Robert Loredo, IBM’s Global Quantum Ambassador and Technical Business Development Lead, and members following a talk and workshop on quantum computing. Photo credit: Girls in Quantum.

Building a Global Educational Network

In 2022, Torres Durney established Girls in Quantum as an international network whose goal is to provide women and adolescents with education resources for quantum computing.

Elisa Torres Durney speaking in Quantum Base, Jan. 2024. Photo credit: Wikipedia.

The organization’s mission extends beyond traditional classroom learning, creating collaborative spaces where students can strengthen their abilities while accessing cutting-edge technological education.

The impact has been remarkable.

Torres Durney has reached more than 20,000 attendees and students by speaking at over fifty international conferences, including presentations at IBM, The Economist, United Nations, UNESCO, The Lancet, Women Economic Forum, Ernst & Young, TEDx, Johns Hopkins University, and Quantum Basel Global Symposium.

Girls in Quantum provides free educational content about quantum computing to students around the globe, offering resources so students can get involved in the field and make an impact by strengthening their abilities and talents.

This democratization of knowledge represents a fundamental shift in how emerging technologies are taught and accessed.



Recognition and Academic Excellence

Torres Durney’s work has garnered significant recognition from prestigious institutions. In 2023, she received a Top 10 Global Student Prize and has been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. These accolades reflect not only her individual achievements but also the broader impact of her educational initiative. She has been nominated for the J. Luce Foundation 24 Under 24 cohort 2025.

Currently pursuing her academic goals as an A.B. Duke Scholar, Torres Durney balances her studies with her expanding role as a global advocate for STEM education. Her academic credentials include participation in programs sponsored by leading technology companies and research institutions, providing her with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in quantum computing applications.

The young entrepreneur also serves in leadership roles that extend her influence beyond education. She holds the position of G100 WEF Country Chair STEM and sits on advisory boards at UNESCO, demonstrating her commitment to policy-level changes in STEM accessibility and education.


Elisa Torres Durney, Chilean social entrepreneur, has built Girls in Quantum. Photo credit: Pablo Sanhueza.

Expanding Quantum Literacy Worldwide

The scope of Girls in Quantum‘s reach reflects the organization’s commitment to global educational equity. By operating across 27 countries, the initiative addresses both geographic and economic barriers that traditionally limit access to advanced technological education. The organization’s free resources ensure that financial constraints don’t prevent talented students from exploring quantum computing.

Girls in Quantum teaches students from across the world how quantum technology can be used to solve global issues, introducing participants to practical applications of complex theoretical concepts. This approach moves beyond abstract mathematical formulations to demonstrate real-world problem-solving potential.

Torres Durney‘s educational philosophy emphasizes collaborative learning and peer mentorship. The organization creates networks where students can connect across international boundaries, sharing knowledge and building relationships that extend beyond individual educational experiences. This global community approach helps sustain interest and provides ongoing support for students pursuing quantum computing careers.


Technology as a Force for Global Change

The broader implications of Torres Durney’s work extend to addressing critical global challenges. Quantum computing promises revolutionary advances in drug discovery, financial modeling, cryptography, and climate science. By expanding access to quantum education, Girls in Quantum potentially accelerates the development of solutions to pressing international problems.

Torres Durney’s vision encompasses both immediate educational goals and long-term societal impact. Her organization operates on the principle that diverse perspectives strengthen innovation, particularly in fields requiring creative problem-solving approaches. By specifically focusing on women’s participation in STEM, the initiative addresses systemic barriers while building a more inclusive technological workforce.

The educational content developed by Girls in Quantum reflects current industry standards while remaining accessible to high school and undergraduate students. Torres Durney writes articles for the website, such as “Classical vs Quantum Cryptography” and “Quantum computers?!” which provide information on the science and recent developments in these technologies.


Future Directions and Sustainable Growth

As quantum computing transitions from experimental research to commercial applications, Torres Durney’s educational initiative positions itself at the forefront of workforce development. Major technology companies increasingly recognize the need for quantum-literate employees, creating career opportunities for students who gain early exposure to these concepts.

The organization’s sustainability model relies on partnerships with educational institutions, technology companies, and international organizations. These collaborations provide both funding and expertise while ensuring that educational content remains current with rapidly evolving technological developments.

Torres Durney’s leadership style emphasizes youth empowerment and collaborative decision-making. Her approach demonstrates that young people can drive significant educational and social change when provided with appropriate resources and support systems. This model offers insights for other STEM education initiatives seeking to maximize impact through peer-led learning.

The success of Girls in Quantum illustrates the potential for social entrepreneurship to address complex educational challenges. By combining technological expertise with innovative delivery methods, Torres Durney has created a scalable model for emerging technology education that other organizations can adapt and implement.

Torres Durney’s work represents more than educational programming; it embodies a vision of technological democratization where geographic location, economic circumstances, or gender do not determine access to cutting-edge knowledge. Through Girls in Quantum, she continues building bridges between complex scientific concepts and the diverse global community of students eager to shape tomorrow’s technological landscape.


Young Global Leader Transforms Global Quantum Computing Education (Sept. 15, 2025)


Audio Summary

Chilean entrepreneur Elisa Torres Durney founded Girls in Quantum (www.girlsinquantum.com), a global non-profit providing free quantum computing education to over 7,000 students across 27 countries. The organization empowers women in STEM while democratizing access to emerging technologies. Torres Durney, a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and Global Student Prize Top 10 recipient, has spoken at over 50 international conferences including the U.N. and UNESCO. Her youth-led initiative addresses gender gaps in technology while building tomorrow’s quantum workforce.


#QuantumComputing #WomenInSTEM #EducationForAll #TechLeadership #GlobalEducation
#QuantumEducation #STEMEducation #SocialEntrepreneurship #TechInnovation #YouthLeadership

TAGS: quantum computing, STEM education, women in technology, educational equity, youth leadership,
social entrepreneurship, technology access, global education, emerging technologies, educational innovation

Facebook: Chilean entrepreneur Elisa Torres Durney is transforming quantum computing education worldwide through Girls in Quantum. Her non-profit has reached over 7,000 students across 27 countries, providing free access to one of technology’s most complex fields. A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Torres Durney demonstrates how young leaders can drive meaningful change in STEM education and gender equity. Learn how she’s building bridges between cutting-edge technology and the next generation of innovators.

Instagram: Meet Elisa Torres Durney, the Chilean entrepreneur behind Girls in Quantum. At a young age, she founded a global non-profit that’s reached 7,000+ students across 27 countries with free quantum computing education. From speaking at the U.N. to earning Forbes 30 Under 30 recognition, she’s proving that youth leadership can transform STEM education and create more inclusive tech communities. Her mission: democratize access to quantum computing and empower the next generation of women in technology.

LinkedIn: Elisa Torres Durney exemplifies innovative leadership in STEM education. As founder and C.E.O. of Girls in Quantum, she has created a global platform reaching over 7,000 students across 27 countries with free quantum computing resources. Her achievements include Forbes 30 Under 30 recognition, Global Student Prize Top 10 status, and speaking engagements at 50+ international conferences including I.B.M., the U.N., and UNESCO. Torres Durney’s work demonstrates how targeted educational initiatives can address gender gaps in emerging technologies while building the quantum workforce of tomorrow.

X/Twitter: Chilean entrepreneur Elisa Torres Durney founded Girls in Quantum, reaching 7,000+ students across 27 countries with free quantum computing education. Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree transforming STEM access globally through youth leadership and educational innovation.

BlueSky: Elisa Torres Durney’s Girls in Quantum proves young leaders can drive global change. Her non-profit provides free quantum computing education to 7,000+ students across 27 countries, addressing gender gaps in STEM while democratizing access to emerging technologies. From UNESCO advisory roles to Forbes recognition, she’s building tomorrow’s quantum workforce today.

Memory’s Flight Path: Why Childhood Cartoons Echo Through Adult Minds


The surprising psychological mechanisms that make forgotten animated adventures resurface decades later in our consciousness


New York, N.Y. – The melody arrives uninvited, threading through the mundane moments of adult life like a paper airplane cutting through office air. “Fun with us being Skyhawks,” the theme song declares with the boundless optimism that only Saturday morning cartoons could muster.


For countless viewers who came of age during the late 1960s and early 1970s, this particular earworm represents more than mere nostalgia—it exemplifies the profound neurological and psychological mechanisms that bind us to our formative media experiences.

Skyhawks, the animated series that aired from 1969 to 1971, followed the adventures of Mike Wilson and his family as they operated a rescue and charter service. Created by Ken Snyder and produced by Pantomime Pictures, the show represented a unique entry in the animation landscape of its era, combining adventure storytelling with aviation themes that captured young imaginations during the height of America’s fascination with flight and space exploration.



The Neurological Architecture of Musical Memory

The persistence of cartoon theme songs in adult consciousness reflects sophisticated neurological processes that scientists have only recently begun to understand. Dr. Daniel Levitin, a cognitive psychologist and neuroscientist at McGill University, explains that musical memories form through multiple neural pathways simultaneously, creating what researchers call “redundant encoding.” When we hear the Skyhawks theme, our brains don’t simply process melody—they integrate rhythm, harmony, lyrics, and associated visual imagery into a complex neurological tapestry.

Memory consolidation occurs most powerfully during childhood and adolescence, when neural plasticity reaches its peak. The developing brain creates stronger synaptic connections for experiences encountered during these formative years, explaining why a cartoon theme heard at age eight resurfaces with startling clarity decades later. This phenomenon, known as the “reminiscence bump,” demonstrates how memories formed between ages 10 and 30 maintain exceptional durability throughout the human lifespan.

The auditory cortex processes musical information differently than other sensory input, routing signals through the hippocampus and amygdala—brain regions responsible for memory formation and emotional processing. This explains why hearing “Fun with us being Skyhawks” doesn’t merely trigger recall; it evokes the entire emotional landscape of Saturday morning television viewing, complete with sensory details about breakfast cereals, pajamas, and the particular quality of weekend morning light.


1969. I was ten. I remember the songs today as clearly as I did more than half a century ago. Photo credit: ABC.

Cultural Context and Generational Identity

Skyhawks premiered during a pivotal moment in American culture, when aviation represented both technological prowess and adventurous spirit. The Apollo program dominated headlines, military aviation played prominent roles in ongoing conflicts, and commercial air travel was expanding rapidly. For children of this era, flight symbolized limitless possibility—a theme that resonated through both the show’s content and its memorable musical accompaniment.

The cartoon’s production values reflected the television industry’s evolving approach to children’s programming. Unlike the theatrical shorts that had dominated earlier decades, Skyhawks was created specifically for television broadcast, with animation techniques optimized for smaller screens and home viewing environments. The show’s 17-episode run may seem brief by contemporary standards, but its syndication ensured continued exposure across multiple generations of viewers.

Generational identity forms partly through shared media experiences, and cartoon theme songs serve as unofficial anthems for specific age cohorts. Those who remember Skyhawks likely also recall Jonny Quest, The Jetsons, and Scooby-Doo—shows that collectively defined Saturday morning television culture during the late 20th century. These programs created a common vocabulary of references, musical phrases, and visual imagery that continues to unite viewers decades after their original broadcasts.


The Psychology of Involuntary Musical Imagery

Involuntary musical imagery (INMI), commonly known as “earworms,” affects approximately 98% of the population according to research conducted by Dr. Kelly Jakubowski at Durham University.

These spontaneous musical recollections typically last between 15 and 30 seconds and occur most frequently during periods of reduced cognitive load—precisely the mental states that characterize routine adult activities like commuting, exercising, or performing household tasks.

The Skyhawks theme possesses several characteristics that enhance its potential for involuntary recall. Its melody follows a simple, repetitive structure that cognitive scientists call “high cognitive availability.”

The lyrics combine concrete imagery (“Skyhawks”) with abstract concepts (“fun”), creating semantic associations that multiple retrieval cues can trigger.

‘The song’s moderate tempo and major key signature align with research findings suggesting that upbeat, moderately complex melodies have the highest likelihood of spontaneous recurrence.

Priming effects also contribute to theme song resurgence. Environmental triggers—aircraft overhead, vintage television programming, conversations about childhood—can activate neural pathways associated with Skyhawks memories. Once activated, these pathways may continue firing long after the initial stimulus disappears, resulting in the persistent musical loop that characterizes earworm experiences.


Modern Implications and Digital Preservation

Contemporary media consumption patterns differ dramatically from the appointment television viewing that characterized the Skyhawks era. Today’s audiences access content on demand, often consuming entire series in compressed timeframes that limit the repetitive exposure necessary for deep memory consolidation.

This shift raises questions about whether current programming will generate the same long-term recall experienced by Skyhawks viewers.

Digital preservation efforts have given classic cartoons new life, with streaming platforms and video sharing services making previously unavailable content accessible to contemporary audiences.

YouTube channels dedicated to vintage animation have introduced Skyhawks to viewers who never experienced Saturday morning television culture, creating new neural pathways for musical memories in different generational contexts.

The phenomenon of cartoon theme song persistence demonstrates the remarkable durability of childhood media experiences and their continued influence on adult consciousness. When “Fun with us being Skyhawks” surfaces unexpectedly in our mental soundscape, it represents more than simple nostalgia—it reveals the sophisticated ways our brains preserve, process, and randomly access the cultural artifacts that shaped our formative years.

Understanding why these musical memories persist offers insights into human cognition, cultural identity, and the lasting power of seemingly ephemeral entertainment. The next time that familiar melody takes flight through your thoughts, remember that you’re experiencing a complex neurological phenomenon that connects you to both your personal history and a broader community of viewers who shared the same Saturday morning adventures decades ago.


Memory’s Flight Path: Why Childhood Cartoons Echo Through Adult Minds (Sept. 12, 2025)


Audio Summary

This feature explores why the theme song from the 1970s cartoon Skyhawks spontaneously resurfaces in adult minds decades after viewing. The article examines neurological mechanisms of musical memory, cultural context of aviation-themed entertainment, and psychological factors behind involuntary musical imagery. Drawing from cognitive science research, it explains how childhood media experiences create lasting neural pathways that randomly activate throughout adult life, demonstrating the profound connection between formative entertainment and long-term memory formation.


#ChildhoodMemories #CartoonThemes #Skyhawks #Nostalgia #Psychology
#Neuroscience #Animation #Memory #SaturdayMorning #VintageTV

TAGS: animation, cartoon, childhood, memory, neuroscience, nostalgia,
psychology, skyhawks, television, theme songs, vintage


Fatal Irony Demands a National Reckoning on Guns – Now


The assassination of Charlie Kirk at a university forum exposes the profound contradictions and costs of America’s firearm obsession.


New York, N.Y. — The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on September 11, 2025, at Utah Valley University is a tragedy layered in a paradox, wrapped in a national crisis. Kirk, a vociferous proponent of gun rights, was shot and killed during a discussion on firearm violence.

The grim irony is so profound it risks overshadowing the deeper, more systemic lesson his death imparts: that a nation awash in guns and vitriolic rhetoric cannot feign surprise when the two combine with deadly, predictable consequences. This moment must transcend mere mourning; it must become a catalyst for a long-overdue national reckoning.


Conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

The Unsparing Irony of a Pro-Gun Advocate’s Death

Charlie Kirk’s stance on firearms was unambiguous and well-documented. He famously argued that gun deaths were a “prudent price” for the Second Amendment, a necessary cost of freedom.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.com.

To be killed by the very instrument he defended so staunchly, in the midst of a debate about its dangers, is a narrative twist of Shakespearean proportions.

It is a painful, personal contradiction that highlights a brutal, collective truth: the violence often dismissed as acceptable collateral damage by pro-gun advocates does not discriminate based on ideology.

It claims its victims indiscriminately, from schoolchildren to politicians, and now, to one of the Second Amendment’s most prominent voices.

This irony should not be a point for glib commentary but a sobering reflection on the universal vulnerability that defines America’s gun violence epidemic.


Permissive Laws and the Illusion of Security

The setting of this tragedy further deepens its instructive value. Utah boasts some of the most permissive gun laws in the U.S., allowing for permitless carry for most adults.

Utah lies in the western half of the U.S. Utah has a Republican governorship and majorities in both chambers of the state legislature, as well as attorney general and secretary of state.

While public colleges like UVU require a permit to carry on campus, this incident exposed the terrifying gaps in such a framework.

The assailant used a high-powered, bolt-action rifle that was reportedly hidden near the campus.

The event, attended by over 3,000 people, lacked metal detectors and had sparse security. This reveals a catastrophic failure of imagination and enforcement.

Laws that are designed to be permissive, even with minor restrictions, are inherently vulnerable to bad actors who operate outside any legal framework.

The notion that “protective” laws alone can inoculate a society from violence is a dangerous fantasy, proven false by a rifle’s report in a Utah lecture hall.


A Disturbing Pattern of American Political Violence

Kirk’s assassination is not an anomaly; it is the latest, horrifying data point in an escalating trend of political violence in the United States.

From the shooting of Democratic legislators at a baseball practice in 2017 to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in 2024, the country’s political discourse is increasingly punctuated by gunfire.

This event underscores the lethal synergy between polarized rhetoric, which Kirk himself often trafficked in, and easy access to firearms.

As observers have noted, “increasingly divisive rhetoric, fueled by social media echo chambers and easy access to firearms, leads to raw nerves and a heightened potential for bloodshed.”

We have created an ecosystem where political disagreements are not just heated but exist under the constant, shadowy threat of lethal force.



Beyond Condemnation: The Path to Pragmatic Reform

In the wake of the shooting, leaders from across the political spectrum offered condemnations. Utah Governor Spencer Cox lamented that America is “broken.”

But condemnation without action is merely sentiment. True honor for the victims of gun violence—from Kirk to the children of Uvalde—will come not through words, but through the courage to change America’s gun laws once and for all.

This does not necessitate the abolition of the Second Amendment, but rather a embrace of pragmatic, balanced reforms that respect rights while prioritizing lives.

Such a approach could include implementing universal background checks to close dangerous loopholes, enacting red flag laws to temporarily disarm individuals deemed a threat by judicial review, and reinstating a federal ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines designed for maximum carnage.


A Requiem for Reflection and Resolve

Charlie Kirk’s death is a national tragedy. It is also a stark, undeniable lesson. He believed in the primacy of the Second Amendment, even at a “prudent price.” His murder is the ultimate, most devastating cost. It proves that in a nation with more guns than people, no one is truly safe—not in a church, not in a school, not at a supermarket, and not on a university stage.

To fix what is broken, as Governor Cox stated, requires moving beyond partisan divides. It demands a collective commitment to fostering a more respectful public discourse and building a legal framework that values human life above absolute, unfettered access to weaponry. The time for thoughts and prayers is over. The time for reflection has passed. The time for action is now.


Summary

The assassination of Charlie Kirk at a Utah university is a tragic irony that exposes America’s gun violence crisis. This piece argues his death by a firearm during a debate on gun control highlights the failure of permissive laws and demands pragmatic reforms to balance rights with public safety, moving beyond partisan rhetoric to meaningful action.


#GunViolence #SecondAmendment #PoliticalViolence #CharlieKirk #GunControl #USPolitics #Utah #Security

TAGS: Charlie Kirk, assassination, gun control, Second Amendment, Utah,
political violence, gun laws, firearm reform, Utah Valley University


Jan Jao Kha Opens to Stellar Five-Star Reviews in Hell’s Kitchen


Hell’s Kitchen’s Latest Gem Resurrects Ancient Siamese Culinary Royalty with Perfect First-Week Reception


Editor John Laing.

New York, N.Y. — In an era where restaurant openings are often met with mixed reviews and cautious optimism, Jan Jao Kha has achieved something remarkable: unanimous five-star ratings across both Google and Yelp after just one week of service.


The Thai restaurant at 830 Ninth Avenue, nestled between 54th and 55th Streets in Hell’s Kitchen, has captured the imagination and palates of early diners with its resurrection of ancient Siamese royal cuisine.

The restaurant, co-owned by Bix Luce and partners West and Champ, opened its doors on August 26, 2025, with the ambitious mission of presenting dishes that were once exclusive to the nobility of the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya kingdoms. Within seven days, the establishment had garnered 23 five-star Google reviews and 18 perfect ratings on Yelp—an unprecedented achievement for any new restaurant in Manhattan’s competitive dining landscape.


Early Diners Embrace Culinary Time Travel

The spectacular wall mural was hand painted by artisans from Bangkok.

The reviews paint a picture of dining experiences that transcend typical restaurant visits.

Margaret Chen, a food blogger from the Upper East Side, wrote on Google: “This isn’t just dinner—it’s a masterclass in Thai culinary history. The golden dumplings alone are worth the pilgrimage to Hell’s Kitchen.”

Yelp reviewer Marcus Thompson, who identifies himself as a professional chef, was equally effusive: “After 15 years in the industry, I thought I knew Thai food. Jan Jao Kha proved me wrong in the most beautiful way possible. These aren’t recipes you’ll find anywhere else in the U.S.

The consensus among early patrons centers on the restaurant’s authenticity and the emotional impact of the dining experience.

Several reviewers mentioned being moved to tears by the careful presentation and profound flavors of dishes that represent centuries of culinary evolution.



The Science Behind Five-Star Success

Restaurant industry analyst Dr. Sarah Martinez attributes Jan Jao Kha‘s immediate success to what she calls “the perfect storm of authenticity, rarity, and execution.”

Speaking from her office at the Culinary Institute of America, Martinez explained, “When you combine genuinely unique recipes with flawless execution and a compelling story, you create something that resonates deeply with sophisticated diners.”

The numbers support this assessment. Of the 41 reviews posted across both platforms, 100% awarded five stars—a statistical anomaly in the restaurant industry, where even acclaimed establishments typically see rating distributions across multiple star levels.

Google reviewer Diana Kim described her experience: “The moment you enter, you understand you’re somewhere special. The moonlit ambiance isn’t gimmicky—it’s transportive. When the taro dumplings arrived, golden and perfect, I actually gasped.”

Menu Items Generating the Most Buzz

Analysis of the reviews reveals consistent praise for specific dishes that appear to be driving the restaurant’s perfect rating streak.

The golden dumplings, described in the restaurant’s marketing as filled with “a sophisticated mixture of taro and other finely prepared ingredients,” have been mentioned in 89% of reviews.

The rare noodle dishes are running a close second in reviewer attention.

Yelp user James Liu, who claims to have traveled extensively throughout Thailand, wrote: “I’ve never encountered noodles like these, even in Bangkok‘s most exclusive establishments. The broth is so complex it tells the story of ancient trade routes.”

Professional food photographer Elena Vasquez, whose Instagram account boasts 150,000 followers, noted: “This is the first restaurant where I’ve put my camera down and just experienced the food. The visual presentation is so exquisite that photographing it felt almost disrespectful.”


The Challenge of Accessibility and Authenticity

Yelp reviewer Amanda Foster states: “I’ve paid similar amounts for far less meaningful experiences. This felt like dining in a museum where you get to eat the exhibits.”

Industry observers note that the restaurant’s focus on historical accuracy over familiar flavors represents a calculated risk that appears to be paying off. Food critic Jennifer Walsh observed: “Bix Luce and the team have successfully educated diners rather than simply feeding them. It’s a masterful approach to introducing genuinely unfamiliar cuisine.”



The Moonlight Effect: Atmosphere as Star

Beyond the food, reviewers consistently praise the restaurant’s atmosphere, which Bix Luce describes as deliberately evoking “moonlit feasts” of ancient Siam.

Photo credit: Tyler Suthikaew.

The soft lighting, traditional textiles, and subtle temple architecture references create what multiple reviewers describe as a “sanctuary” from the bustling energy of Hell’s Kitchen.

Google reviewer Patricia Huang wrote: “The moment you step inside, the chaos of Ninth Avenue disappears. You’re transported to what I imagine a royal court dinner might have felt like centuries ago.”

The restaurant’s design philosophy extends to its staff training. Several reviews mention the servers’ deep knowledge of each dish’s historical context and preparation methods.

Yelp reviewer David Martinez noted: “Our server didn’t just describe the food—they told stories. It elevated the entire experience.”


Building Momentum in Week Two

As Jan Jao Kha enters its second week of operation, reservation availability has become increasingly limited. The restaurant’s online booking system shows full capacity through September 2025, with a waiting list that has grown to over 200 names.

Luce acknowledges the overwhelming response while maintaining focus on quality control. “We could easily accommodate more diners, but that would compromise the intimate experience we’re trying to create,” Luce explained during a brief interview outside the restaurant. “Our goal isn’t volume—it’s creating meaningful connections with Thailand‘s royal culinary heritage.”


The restaurant industry rarely witnesses such unanimous early approval, making Jan Jao Kha‘s
perfect rating streak a phenomenon worthy of study. As word continues to spread through
New York‘s dining community, the establishment appears positioned to maintain its exceptional
standard while introducing Western palates to flavors that have remained hidden for centuries.


For now, Jan Jao Kha stands as proof that authenticity, when paired with masterful execution, can create culinary magic that transcends cultural boundaries and creates unanimous appreciation among the most discerning food critics and casual diners alike.


Jan Jao Kha Opens to Stellar Five-Star Reviews in Hell’s Kitchen (Sept. 11, 2025)


Summary

New Thai restaurant Jan Jao Kha in Hell’s Kitchen achieves unprecedented perfect five-star ratings across Google and Yelp after one week of operation.

Co-owned by Bix Luce, the establishment resurrects ancient Siamese royal cuisine from the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras.

Diners praise the authentic golden dumplings, rare noodle dishes, and moonlit atmosphere.

The restaurant offers historically accurate recipes once exclusive to Thai nobility, creating an educational fine-dining experience that has captivated critics and casual diners equally.


#JanJaoKhaRestaurant #HellsKitchenDining #ThaiRoyalCuisine #FiveStarRestaurant #NYC
#AncientSiamese #FineThaiFood #CulinaryHistory #RestaurantReviews #ManhattanEats

TAGS: Jan Jao Kha, Thai restaurant, Hell’s Kitchen, five star reviews, ancient Siamese, Bix Luce,
fine dining,royal cuisine, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya,golden dumplings, Thai nobility, NYC dining,
authentic Thai food, moonlit atmosphere, rare noodles, culinary history, restaurant opening



LEADERSHIP | Newsom Defies Trump in Fiery State Address


California Governor Slams Federal Policies, Touts Resilience Amid Wildfires, Economic Challenges


New York, N.Y. –– On September 9, 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom [Luce Index™ score: 94/100] delivered a powerful State of the State address, casting the Golden State as a defiant stronghold against what he described as a menacing Trump administration.


In a 2,300-word letter to the California Legislature, Newsom accused the federal government of dismantling public services, flouting the rule of law, and targeting California’s progressive values with “relentless, unhinged obsession.”


A State Under Siege

Newsom underscored the state’s resilience in the face of devastating Los Angeles County wildfires, economic challenges, and federal hostility. The address, coinciding with California’s 175th anniversary of statehood, was accompanied by a pre-recorded video shared across his social media platforms, amplifying his message to a national audience.

Newsom’s remarks come as he gains prominence as a potential 2028 presidential contender, using his platform to confront the policies of President Donald Trump [Luce Index™ score: 35/100] while positioning California as a defender of democratic values.

His decision to forgo the customary public address drew criticism from Republican lawmakers, who accused him of dodging accountability on pressing issues like the state’s affordability crisis and looming budget deficit. Nonetheless, Newsom’s address framed California as a beacon of progress, emphasizing its economic strength, environmental leadership, and robust disaster response.



Battling Federal Overreach

Newsom’s address painted a vivid picture of a state under siege, not only by natural disasters but also by a federal administration he described as built on “incompetence and malicious ignorance.” He highlighted California’s legal battles against the Trump administration, noting that the state has filed 41 lawsuits to challenge federal actions threatening its progressive policies.

These include policies on immigration, environmental regulations, and civil rights. For instance, California is contesting the administration’s decision to suspend funding to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) over alleged civil rights violations related to antisemitism and affirmative action. “It would be a mistake to think California is cowering in the face of this onslaught,” Newsom declared, emphasizing the state’s resolve to protect its values.

The governor sharply criticized Trump’s immigration policies, particularly the deployment of the National Guard and U.S. Marines to Los Angeles in June 2025 for immigration enforcement. Newsom called this move a “cowardly attempt to scare us into submission,” alleging it cost taxpayers US$120 million (approximately €108 million). He also condemned the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on September 8, 2025, allowing federal authorities to resume mass immigration arrests at workplaces and public spaces in Los Angeles, describing it as an attack on the state’s entrepreneurial spirit. “We are committed to protecting the men and women who make this state stronger through their hard work,” Newsom wrote, referencing California’s diverse workforce.


Resilience Amid Wildfires

A significant portion of Newsom’s address focused on California’s response to the catastrophic Los Angeles County wildfires in January 2025, which he described as one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history. Fueled by hurricane-force winds, the Eaton and Palisades wildfires destroyed thousands of homes and forced mass evacuations in communities like Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu. Newsom praised the “tireless resolve” of firefighters, law enforcement, and first responders who risked their lives to save residents. He also highlighted the state’s rapid mobilization of resources, including executive orders to waive bureaucratic red tape, enabling swift debris removal and streamlined rebuilding permits.

“Despite great personal danger, our first responders demonstrated heroic resolve,” Newsom said, noting that California’s communities rallied to support displaced families, businesses, and schools. However, he expressed frustration with the Trump administration’s lack of federal aid, stating, “While California looked to the federal government for help, we have found none.” This absence of support, Newsom argued, underscored Trump’s pattern of abandoning California during crises while attacking its liberal policies.


Economic and Environmental Leadership

Despite these challenges, Newsom touted California’s economic and environmental achievements. With a gross domestic product exceeding US$4.1 trillion (€3.7 trillion), California remains the world’s fifth-largest economy, leading in startups, venture capital, and space technology. The governor highlighted job creation, noting that California added 43,700 jobs in April 2025, accounting for one in six jobs created nationwide. He also emphasized social programs, such as college savings accounts for newborns, free school meals, and universal transitional kindergarten for four-year-olds, as evidence of the state’s commitment to opportunity.

On the environmental front, Newsom celebrated California’s leadership in clean energy, with over 2 million zero-emission vehicles sold and 51 miles (82 kilometers) of electrified Caltrain tracks. The state’s grid has operated on 100% clean electricity for the equivalent of 60 days in 2025, a milestone in its fight against climate change. “Our climate investments will create millions of new jobs and cut air pollution by more than 70%,” Newsom wrote, positioning California as a model for balancing economic growth with environmental protection. He accused the Trump administration of undermining these efforts by rolling back California’s clean air and water standards, which he claimed would harm public health and stifle innovation.


Political Strategy and Criticism

Newsom’s address also served as a platform to advance his national profile, employing a social media strategy that mirrors Trump’s confrontational style to engage supporters. His proposal to redraw California’s congressional maps to favor Democrats, in response to Texas’s Republican-leaning redistricting, has sparked accusations of fueling partisan gerrymandering. California Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher, a Republican, criticized Newsom’s pre-recorded address, stating, “He’s too afraid to talk about the real State of the State,” pointing to issues like the affordability crisis and Medi-Cal’s financial challenges.

Republicans also questioned Newsom’s spending priorities, particularly his push for a special election on Proposition 50, which could reshape California’s electoral landscape. “He would rather run for president on a platform of fighting Donald Trump than govern his state,” Gallagher said. Despite this, Newsom’s defiance resonated with many Californians, who view him as a staunch defender of the state’s progressive values.


A Defiant Vision for the Future

Closing his address, Newsom struck a defiant tone, promising that California would remain a leader in innovation, diversity, and democracy. “We are facing a federal administration that seeks the death of independent thinking,” he wrote, framing the state’s resistance as a moral imperative. He pledged to deliver his final State of the State address in 2026, vowing that California would be “brighter and more prosperous than ever before.”

The address, delivered from the Governor’s Mansion in Sacramento, underscored California’s role as a cultural and economic powerhouse. As Newsom navigates the final years of his governorship, his confrontational stance against the Trump administration and his focus on climate investments, economic recovery, and social programs position him as a formidable figure on the national stage. Whether his strategy will bolster his presidential ambitions or deepen political divides remains to be seen, but for now, California stands firm in its resolve to chart its own path.


LEADERSHIP | Newsom Defies Trump in Fiery State Address (Sept. 10, 2025)


Summary

In his 2025 State of the State address, California Governor Gavin Newsom fiercely criticized the Trump administration, accusing it of targeting the state’s values and abandoning it during crises like the Los Angeles County wildfires. Delivered as a letter on California’s 175th anniversary, Newsom highlighted the state’s economic strength, clean energy leadership, and resilient disaster response while vowing to defend democracy against federal overreach.


#CaliforniaStateOfTheState #TrumpAdministration
#WildfireRecovery #ClimateInvestments #GavinNewsom

Tags: California, Gavin Newsom, State of the State, Trump administration, wildfires,
economic recovery, climate change, clean energy, immigration, gerrymandering


Haiti’s Medical Beacon Persists Through Gang Violence


GHESKIO continues life-saving healthcare amid unprecedented security crisis in Port-au-Prince


New York, N.Y. – In the heart of Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs control an estimated 60% of the city and civilian casualties have reached wartime levels, one medical institution continues to serve the most vulnerable populations.


The Groupe Haitien d’Etude du Sarcome de Kaposi et des Infections Opportunistes (GHESKIO) stands as Haiti‘s last remaining healthcare provider in the downtown area, delivering critical services despite what U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk recently called “a living hell.”

For more than four decades, GHESKIO has operated as Haiti’s largest provider of H.I.V. care in the Caribbean and a world leader in H.I.V.-associated clinical research. Recognized as a public utility by the Haitian government—a designation reserved for organizations essential to the welfare of the Haitian people—GHESKIO has maintained its mission through civil unrest, natural disasters, and now unprecedented gang violence.



Adapting Care During Crisis

The organization’s resilience has been tested repeatedly over the past three years as approximately 200 gangs, armed with military-grade weapons, have terrorized neighborhoods surrounding GHESKIO‘s two locations. The violence has displaced hundreds of thousands of residents and forced most healthcare facilities to close or relocate. Yet GHESKIO has not only remained operational but has innovated its service delivery to ensure continuity of care.

“We adapted our services to facilitate continuity in care,” explains a GHESKIO representative, describing how the organization opened Comprehensive Community Centers (CCCs) to provide antiretroviral therapy (ART) refills, adherence support, and viral load specimen collection. Of 14,835 active patients on ART at GHESKIO, 3,002 (20%) have received treatment at these community centers.

The results demonstrate remarkable success despite extraordinary circumstances. In fiscal year 2021’s first quarter, 88% of people living with H.I.V. who knew their status initiated ART, 82% on ART received viral testing, and 85% of those tested achieved viral suppression—a significant step toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.


Groupe Haitien d’Etude du Sarcome de Kaposi et des Infections Opportunistes (GHESKIO) stands as Haiti’s last remaining healthcare provider in downtown Port-au-Prince.

Expanding Beyond H.I.V. Care

While H.I.V. remains central to GHESKIO‘s mission, the organization has expanded its focus to address Haiti’s evolving health challenges. Cardiovascular disease has surpassed H.I.V. as Haiti’s leading cause of mortality over the past decade, accounting for approximately 27% of all deaths compared to 6.7% from H.I.V.

In collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine, GHESKIO established a cardiovascular disease clinic and research unit to treat hypertension, renal disease, diabetes, stroke, and heart failure. The team has worked with Haiti’s Ministry of Health to create national hypertension guidelines and secure first-line antihypertensive medications.



Empowering Women Through Crisis

Among GHESKIO‘s most impactful programs is its vocational training initiative for women who have experienced abuse. The program provides psychosocial support for domestic violence victims, rape survivors, and former commercial sex workers while teaching participants to create modern furniture and home accessories.

“This program contributes not only to the participants’ economic well-being but builds self-esteem and agency so that women can rely on themselves,” notes program documentation. The initiative has expanded to include a microcredit program focusing on women living with H.I.V. and survivors of gender-based violence. GHESKIO has provided over 5,000 microcredit loans, enabling many participants to achieve financial independence through small businesses.


Protecting Haiti’s Most Vulnerable

GHESKIO‘s commitment extends to Haiti’s children and adolescents through multiple specialized programs. The organization operates a primary school, Ecole Prince Albert II de Commune Monaco, established after the 2010 earthquake to serve underprivileged families. The school has achieved remarkable success, with nearly 100% of students passing standardized state testing and scoring in the top national percentile.

The adolescent program addresses the particular vulnerability of young people to H.I.V., sexually transmitted infections, and early pregnancy through instructor and peer-led education on sexual reproductive health, disease prevention, and family planning.


Maternal and Child Health Excellence

GHESKIO operates the largest pediatric A.I.D.S. clinic in the Americas, addressing critical gaps in Haiti’s maternal and child health system. With approximately 70% of births occurring at home and 25% unattended, Haiti faces severe maternal health challenges. The country’s maternal death rate during childbirth remains the highest in the Western hemisphere, with an estimated 500 deaths per 100,000 births.

The organization’s Mother’s Clubs meet monthly to provide prenatal care education, optimal infant nutrition guidance, and peer support networks. Since implementing these programs alongside antiretroviral therapy prophylaxis, H.I.V. transmission from mother to child at GHESKIO has decreased from 15% to approximately 2%, while infant malnutrition has been reduced by up to 50%.



Community Outreach and Public Health

GHESKIO employs a substantial network of Community Health Workers who conduct outreach in surrounding neighborhoods, including Village de Dieu, Cite l’Eternel, and Cite Plus, serving approximately 120,000 inhabitants. These workers perform active case finding, appointment follow-ups, clinic referrals, and home care for thousands of patients.

The organization has also played a crucial role in Haiti’s cholera response since the epidemic began in 2010. Through collaboration with the Ministry of Health, C.D.C., and UNICEF, GHESKIO developed prevention, care, and training models that reduced cholera rates in its catchment area to nearly zero through water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions combined with oral cholera vaccines.

GHESKIO‘s chlorine factory, constructed after the 2010 earthquake, continues to provide chlorine and training for water purification. The organization’s permanent Cholera Treatment Center has served hundreds of thousands of patients throughout the epidemic.

As Haiti faces its most challenging period in recent history, GHESKIO represents hope and resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Through partnerships with C.D.C., N.I.H., PEPFAR, USAID, and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the organization continues to demonstrate that quality healthcare delivery is possible even in the world’s most difficult circumstances.


Haiti’s Medical Beacon Persists Through Gang Violence (Sept. 10, 2025)


Summary

GHESKIO, Haiti’s largest H.I.V. care provider, continues operating in Port-au-Prince despite unprecedented gang violence. The organization serves 14,835 active A.R.T. patients through innovative community centers, achieving 85% viral suppression rates. Beyond H.I.V., GHESKIO addresses cardiovascular disease, operates successful women’s empowerment and educational programs, and maintains the Caribbean’s largest pediatric A.I.D.S. clinic while reducing mother-to-child H.I.V. transmission from 15% to 2%.


#Haiti #HIVCare #PublicHealth #CommunityHealth #WomenEmpowerment
#Healthcare #MaternalHealth #PortauPrince #GlobalHealth #Resilience

TAGS: Haiti, GHESKIO, H.I.V. care, gang violence, healthcare access, community health,
women empowerment, cardiovascular disease, cholera response, vocational training,
maternal health, Port-au-Prince, antiretroviral therapy, viral suppression, PEPFAR, Global Fund

One Night Only in New York: Book Signing by Asjai Lou

0

Casting Pros to Know:
Reality TV Edition — Your Guide to Getting Cast 


NOT TO BE MISSED! September 10 at 7:00 pm


New York, N.Y. — Asjai Lou is a 2x CSA Artios-nominated casting director and producer. She has helped discover breakout talent and cast for major brands from American Idol and Big Brother to Nike and McDonald’s.


Creating Asjai Lou Casting to flip the script and make sure real people finally get seen, she has penned a groundbreaking new book, Casting Pros to Know: Reality TV Edition — Your Guide to Getting Cast published by Wordeee—the first-ever Reality TV Casting Directory.

Revealing who casts what, why they cast, and how you can get in front of them for your shot, you never know which casting pros might show up in the audience as special guests.

If you love reality TV or dream of being on it, consider this your official invite behind the scenes.

Ticket price includes the B&W book + a drink.

Wednesday, September 10th at 7pm

Huemanbooks@Ground Central Coffee Company

1166 Avenue of the Americas (6th)
at 45th Street, NEW YORK, N.Y.

LINK FOR TICKETS

How Real People Get on Reality TV — Live in NYC with a Casting Director Tickets, Wed, Sep 10, 2025 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite


Summary

Asjai Lou, two-time CSA Artios-nominated casting director and producer, hosts a special one-night-only book signing in New York City on September 10 at 7 pm. Her new release, Casting Pros to Know: Reality TV Edition — Your Guide to Getting Cast, offers an inside look at reality TV casting. Taking place at Huemanbooks@Ground Central Coffee Company, the ticket includes a copy of the book and a drink, with surprise industry guests expected.


#AsjaiLou #BookSigningNYC #RealityTVCasting #NewYorkEvents #CastingProsToKnow

TAGS: Asjai Lou, book signing, New York events, reality TV, casting director,
CSA Artios nominee, Huemanbooks, Ground Central Coffee, Wordeee publishing



Netflix’s Projek: High Council Unveils Boarding School Horrors


Drama Exposes Endemic Bullying and Gangsterism in Malaysian Elite Institutions, Echoing Real Traumas Across Southeast Asia


New York, N.Y. – In the heart of Malaysia’s educational landscape, where prestigious boarding schools promise academic excellence and character building, a darker narrative often lurks beneath the surface. Netflix’s gripping series Projek: High Council, released in 2023 with English subtitles, thrusts viewers into this shadowy realm, portraying a world rife with bullying, hierarchical power struggles, and deep-seated traumas.


Directed by Kabir Bhatia and starring a ensemble of young Malaysian talents, the show follows Fakhri, a determined student who uncovers the secrets of his school’s entrenched traditions, making themselves a prime target for those vying for positions in the elite “High Council.” As Fakhri navigates the clandestine “Pilihanraya” tournament—a brutal contest to select the school’s head—the series unflinchingly depicts the physical and psychological toll of institutionalized violence.

The production, available on Netflix globally, has resonated far beyond Malaysia, drawing parallels to real-life accounts from boarding schools across Southeast Asia. Drawing from authentic Malaysian stories, Projek: High Council highlights issues like verbal abuse, physical beatings, and even sexual assault, which affect an alarming number of students.

According to studies referenced in discussions around the series, approximately 10% of Malaysian students experience sexual harassment or assault in school settings. This fictional yet grounded narrative serves as a mirror to societal ills, prompting viewers to confront the normalized culture of ragging and dominance that persists in many elite institutions.



The Plot: A Battle Against Entrenched Traditions

At the core of Projek: High Council is Fakhri, portrayed by Amir Ahnaf, who arrives at a renowned boarding school only to discover a rigid hierarchy enforced by the “High Council”—a group of senior students wielding unchecked power. The council perpetuates a cycle of bullying disguised as tradition, where newcomers endure humiliating initiations and brutal punishments to prove their worth. Fakhri’s decision to expose these secrets propels the story into a high-stakes drama, blending elements of action, crime, and psychological thriller.

Supporting characters add layers to the narrative. Naim, played by Naim Daniel, grapples with family-induced anger issues stemming from parental divorce, manifesting in toxic behaviors that fuel the school’s aggressive environment. Other key figures include Muzayyin Mahyuddin as a conflicted ally and Fazziq Muqris as a formidable antagonist within the council. Across its ten episodes, the series builds tension through intense fight scenes in the underground “Pilihanraya” arena, where students vie for leadership through physical prowess and cunning strategy.

What sets the show apart is its refusal to glamorize violence. Instead, it explores the psychological ramifications, showing how bullying leads to isolation, anxiety, and long-term mental health struggles. Episodes delve into backstories, revealing how childhood traumas and societal pressures contribute to the perpetuation of these cycles. For instance, one storyline illustrates a student’s panic attacks triggered by familial abandonment, underscoring the intersection of home life and school dynamics.


Real-Life Echoes: Bullying as a Normalized Ordeal

The series’ portrayal is not mere fiction; it draws heavily from documented realities in Malaysian boarding schools, where bullying has been normalized for decades as a rite of passage. Recent tragedies, such as the 2025 death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir, have spotlighted this issue. Zara allegedly endured severe physical and verbal abuse at her boarding school, leading to widespread outrage and calls for reform. Her case involved seniors threatening to break her legs, a chilling echo of the ragging depicted in Projek: High Council.

Alumni stories further illuminate the problem. One former student recounted enduring extreme physical abuse from seniors, including beatings and forced humiliations, in a fully residential school. Such experiences are common, with research indicating that speaking out against bullying is often viewed as unsporting, perpetuating a culture of silence. UNICEF reports from 2017 highlighted fatal bullying incidents in Malaysia, including the deaths of students like T. Nhaveen and Zulfarhan Osman, underscoring the lethal potential of unchecked aggression.


Issue Extends Beyond Malaysia to Neighboring Countries

In Thailand, boarding school students have shared accounts of bullying based on social class or appearance, with physical assaults affecting academic performance and mental health. One narrative described a student facing constant harassment over family wealth, leading to isolation and hindered learning. Similarly, in the Philippines, statistics reveal that 65% of students experience bullying at least monthly, with 40% facing it weekly. Personal testimonies highlight how physical abuse at home exacerbates school vulnerabilities, creating a compounded trauma.

Individuals from Southeast Asia who attended boarding schools in Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines have described horrific conditions, including relentless physical and emotional torment that left lasting scars. These accounts often emerge only in moments of vulnerability, revealing environments where authority figures turned a blind eye to preserve institutional reputation.


From Malaysia, “Projek: High Council.” Photo credit: Netflix.

Toxic Masculinity and Generational Trauma

A poignant theme in Projek: High Council is the role of toxic masculinity in fueling school violence. Characters like Naim embody societal expectations that equate strength with dominance and emotional suppression. The series illustrates how such beliefs stem from troubled home lives, where parental roles challenge traditional gender norms—such as a stay-at-home parent perceived as weak.

This mirrors real psychological insights. In Malaysian boarding schools, bullying often reinforces hierarchical masculinity, with seniors exerting control through physical dominance. Psychological analyses note that victims may internalize these behaviors, perpetuating the cycle as they ascend the ranks. The show’s depiction of family divorce and abandonment adds depth, showing how external traumas amplify school conflicts, leading to issues like anger management and anxiety disorders.

Broader regional patterns align, with Thai and Philippine stories highlighting how bullying intersects with cultural pressures around status and resilience. In Thailand, rural students face ridicule for mixed heritage, while in the Philippines, familial physical discipline correlates with heightened school vulnerability.



Impact and Calls for Change

Since its release, Projek: High Council has sparked crucial conversations, with a 2024 prequel film Kahar: Kapla High Council expanding the universe to explore origins of key characters. Viewers praise its realism, with reviews noting that portrayals of ragging and assault closely align with actual experiences, raising awareness about overlooked problems in boarding schools.

The series’ global platform on Netflix amplifies these voices, encouraging reforms. In Malaysia, recent incidents have prompted government action, including investigations into Zara’s case and charges against alleged bullies. Advocates call for comprehensive anti-bullying policies, psychological support, and teacher training to dismantle these traditions.

Yet, challenges remain. Schools often prioritize reputation over student welfare, with parental and alumni pressures maintaining the status quo. Projek: High Council urges a reevaluation, portraying change as possible through individual courage and collective awareness.

As Southeast Asia grapples with these issues, the series stands as a catalyst, blending entertainment with advocacy. Its message is clear: the horrors of boarding school life must be confronted to foster safer educational environments for future generations.


Summary

Netflix’s Projek: High Council delves into the brutal world of Malaysian boarding schools, where bullying and gangsterism reign supreme. Inspired by true stories, the series follows student Fakhri’s fight against a powerful hierarchy, exposing verbal, physical, and sexual abuses. Echoing real traumas from alumni in Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, it highlights toxic masculinity and family issues. This gripping drama calls for urgent reforms in elite education systems across Southeast Asia.


#ProjekHighCouncil #NetflixMalaysia #BoardingSchoolBullying #MalaysianDrama
#SoutheastAsiaEducation #AntiBullying #ToxicMasculinity #SchoolReform

TAGS: Malaysian series, Netflix original, boarding schools, psychological trauma,
bullying culture, Southeast Asia, real stories, gangsterism, educational reform


Malaysia Confronts School Bullying Crisis After Student Death


Zara Qairina Mahathir’s tragic death sparks nationwide outrage and demands for educational reform


New York, N.Y. – The tragic death of a 13-year-old schoolgirl has forced Malaysia to confront its severe and systemic school bullying problem, igniting national outrage and compelling the government to take long-overdue action against the culture of violence and impunity within its educational institutions.


This issue has been thrust back into the national conversation after Zara Qairina Mahathir was discovered unconscious outside her dormitory at an Islamic boarding school in Sabah, on July 16, 2024. She died the following day after plunging from a third-floor balcony.

Zara Qairina Mahathir was found unconscious outside the dormitory of her Islamic boarding school in Papar, Sabah, on July 17. Photo credit: Zara Qairina Mahathir / Facebook.

The case has transfixed the nation. Allegations of a cover-up and police admissions of early investigative failures fueled public anger.

Justice for Zara” became a rallying cry, sparking rare street protests in Sabah and an outpouring of grief online and in communities across Malaysia.

Five teenagers have since been charged with bullying her, and a month-long inquest began to uncover the truth behind her final hours.

“From the cases that have surfaced publicly, plus countless unreported ones, bullying in Malaysia is severe and systemic,” said Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim, chair of the Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia.

“It is not just ‘kids being kids.’ It has led to trauma, injury and even deaths.”



A Pattern of Violence Emerges

Since Zara’s death, a roll-call of other victims’ stories has emerged, echoing one another in their most chilling details. In early August, 10-year-old cancer patient Izzul Islam Azuan was hospitalized after being repeatedly struck by a classmate in southern Johor state. Weeks later, a high court ordered the exhumation of 22-year-old cadet Syamsul Haris Shamsudin, who died on July 28, 2024. His body bore suspicious injuries; his mother believes he was a victim of bullying.

Military-linked institutions in Malaysia have long been notorious for harsh hazing rituals. In November 2023, reserve officer Muhammad Amir Rusyaidi Muhammad Zaidi, 25, collapsed and died during a grueling training session. In 2017, the nation was shocked by the death of 20-year-old cadet Zulfarhan Osman Zulkarnain, who was tortured with a steam iron by fellow students.


Government Response Under Scrutiny

The renewed focus on abuse has put the government on the defensive. On August 27, 2024, it convened its first special meeting on bullying, pledging to establish an anti-bullying tribunal.

This followed the recent enactment of expanded anti-cyberbullying laws, inspired partly by the suicide in July 2023 of activist Rajeswary Appahu, 30, who had faced relentless online abuse.

However, the Ministry of Education’s initial proposal to reward schools reporting “zero bullying” with additional funding was swiftly condemned as incentivizing cover-ups.

Critics warned it risked protecting institutional reputations rather than children.

Law Minister Azalina Othman Said, who chairs the new anti-bullying committee, has promised stronger measures.

“This meeting is an important early step to craft a concrete and practical plan to ensure Malaysia has a solid, fair and effective bullying prevention mechanism,” her office stated.


For decades, bullying has been normalized in Malaysia’s boarding schools, often
brushed off as a “character-building rite of passage.” This problematic tradition is

magnified by social media’s power to shame and is exacerbated by systemic issues.


Systemic Issues Fuel Crisis

Large class sizes and a chronic shortage of teachers—estimated at more than 20,000—often leave the country’s over 5 million students largely unsupervised.

“What is lacking is supervision of student activities outside the classroom,” said Fouzi Singon, secretary general of the teachers’ union.

The debate often intersects with corporal punishment, which some parents still practice. Tragically, this has led to numerous fatalities, with 114 cases of fatal child abuse reported last year alone, according to government data.

Some institutions are pushing back. The Mara Junior Science Colleges, a group of government-affiliated boarding schools, takes a strict zero-tolerance approach by expelling perpetrators.

“I have stressed many times to students that I have no compromise on bullying,” said Mara Chairman Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, who recently ordered all schools under his purview to never cover up incidents.



Lasting Scars on Students

For many Malaysians, the scars of their school days persist. One young man, ‘Ahmad,’ 28, recounted the years of abuse he endured at a fee-paying boarding school, where seniors ruled with unchecked authority.

“Seniors were like kings and we were all at their mercy,” he said, describing forced nighttime drills and random beatings disguised as “orientation.”

The brutality of this environment has even permeated popular culture. The 2023 streaming series Project High Council offered an unflinching depiction of life under the sway of abusive seniors, confirming the worst fears of many parents.

For insurance agent and mother Mimi Shahira, the recent tragedies have been a wake-up call.

“With what’s happening to Zara, and all these negative cultures, perhaps it’s better to keep them at home with me,” she said, echoing a sentiment felt by parents across the nation wondering if the halls of learning can ever be made safe.

As UNICEF’s representative in Malaysia, Robert Gass, stated: “No child should ever fear for their safety when going to school… Schools must be safe, joyful spaces where children learn, grow and build friendships with dignity and respect.”


Malaysia Confronts School Bullying Crisis After Student Death (Sept. 9, 2025)


Summary

The death of 13-year-old Zara Qairina Mahathir has ignited a national firestorm in Malaysia over its endemic school bullying crisis. From boarding schools to military academies, a history of violence and cover-ups is now facing unprecedented public scrutiny, forcing the government to propose new laws and tribunals to address a problem advocates say has been dismissed for far too long. The case has become a rallying cry for systemic education reform and child protection measures.

#JusticeForZara #Malaysia #SchoolSafety #ChildProtection
#Bullying #StopBullying #EducationReform #ZaraQairina

TAGS: Bullying, School Violence, Malaysia Education System, Child Welfare,
Social Justice, Education Policy, Cyberbullying, Boarding Schools, Kota Kinabalu

American Prisoner Exposes Hong Kong’s Inhumane Jail Conditions

0

The tumultuous experience of an American detained in Hong Kong has ignited fresh debate over the region’s prison conditions, political freedoms, and human rights abuses.


New York, N.Y. — Drawing on the harrowing first-hand account by Samuel Bickett published in the New York Post, this story details the physical and psychological toll faced by foreign detainees and local dissidents caught in the city’s expanding crackdown on political protest and speech. Samuel Bickett’s eyewitness account reveals institutional abuse, medical neglect, and squalor inside Hong Kong’s notorious prison system for political detainees.


Hong Kong’s Lai Chi Kok prison.

Shocking Night Behind Concrete Walls

Samuel Bickett’s story begins in the hospital wing of Hong Kong’s Lai Chi Kok prison, where the sounds of violence punctuated a routine evening.

Guards, shouting and agitated, entered the corridor—well known for its lack of surveillance cameras.

An inmate sobbed and pleaded for mercy. Soon, other prisoners heard unmistakable blows landing on the victim’s body, followed by anguished screams. Immobilized by shock and threat of retaliation, Bickett and his cellmates could only listen.

Eventually, the injured detainee, bleeding heavily, staggered past a blue screen, while others implored Bickett to remain silent.

His own presence in the prison stemmed from a 2019 arrest for intervening in a subway assault—a case perceived as retribution against the U.S. for its critical stance on Hong Kong governance.



Institutional Violence and Prison Brutality

Bickett’s personal ordeal—where his role as the only American political prisoner highlighted the international stakes—became part of a deeper investigation into systematic abuse.

Alongside fellow activist Frances Hui, he published the report “We Were Made to Suffer: Abuse Political Control Hong Kong Prisons.”

Juvenile facilities saw frequent coercion, from forced exercises to sexual assault, often condoned by officers.

Detainees with medical crises—ranging from seizures and broken bones to severe mental health challenges—were systematically denied care.

Bickett’s account describes overflowing toilets, infested cells, and relentless heat, driving inmates to near collapse. One tragic instance involved Conde Mamady, a Guinean prisoner whose worsening health went ignored until he died en route to hospital after days of pleas from other prisoners.


Across 17 interviews with former inmates, consistent patterns emerged: prisoners were physically
assaulted by guards in areas without cameras, and sexual violence was widespread, especially in youth
detention facilities where staff enabled ‘B-boys’—inmate enforcers—to intimidate and attack newcomers.

Prisoner patients report harsh isolation and deprivation in the infamous Si Lam Psych Center.

Psychiatric Detention and Political Suppression

The report also documents punitive use of psychiatric detention. One imprisoned activist disappeared for days after complaining about overcrowding. He returned visibly altered, recounting harsh isolation and deprivation in the infamous Si Lam Psych Center. Such measures, deployed against those expressing dissent, function as unofficial retribution, bypassing judicial norms and threatening mental well-being.

The National Security Law passed by Beijing in 2020 intensified these abuses, introducing vague charges such as “colluding with foreign forces” and leaving political defendants vulnerable to indefinite detention, solitary confinement, and limited access to legal counsel. Amnesty International and other advocates have condemned recent changes to prison rules that allow authorities to block visits on “national security” grounds, undermining fair trial rights and isolating detainees from family and legal assistance.



Calls for Reform and International Pressure

With the U.N. General Assembly convening this week in New York, Bickett and other activists urge member nations to denounce Hong Kong’s treatment of political prisoners and demand investigations into human rights violations.

The conditions witnessed and recorded breach U.N. standards for humane treatment, undermining Hong Kong’s claims to international compliance and raising stakes for its global reputation.

The growing roster of cases—including those of dissident publisher Jimmy Lai and detained Catholic bishops—illustrates how Hong Kong’s judicial system, once considered robust and fair, now serves as an instrument of political control.

Public advocacy, including gestures like naming streets after prominent political prisoners or organizing global protests, seeks to hold Hong Kong and China accountable before broader audiences.


Summary

The tumultuous experience of an American detained in Hong Kong has ignited fresh debate over the region’s prison conditions, political freedoms, and human rights abuses. Drawing on the harrowing first-hand account by Samuel Bickett published in the New York Post, this story details the physical and psychological toll faced by foreign detainees and local dissidents caught in the city’s expanding crackdown on political protest and speech.


#HongKongPrisons #HumanRights #PoliticalPrisoners #SamuelBickett
#JusticeReform #UNAssembly #GlobalAdvocacy #PrisonAbuse #SpeakUp

Tags: Hong Kong, political prisoners, prison conditions, Samuel Bickett, UN General Assembly,
human rights, National Security Law, Amnesty International, dissidents, international law


Canada: Masked White Nationalist Group Marches in Niagara

0

Rally at Queenston Heights Monument draws alarm from anti‑racism advocates


Toronto — A white nationalist group calling itself Second Sons Canada staged a public march at Brock’s Monument in Niagara-on-the-Lake over the Canadian Labour Day weekend, marking what experts say is a symbolic and deliberate test of the country’s political climate. Videos posted to social media show masked men dressed in coordinated white shirts emblazoned with maple leaf motifs, marching in step and chanting nationalist slogans before gathering at the historic memorial in Queenston Heights Park.


The event, one of the group’s first large-scale public rallies, drew sharp concern from scholars and anti-racism activists, who warn that the performance signals both visibility and growing confidence among white supremacist networks across Canada.


Second Sons Canada Facebook.

Military-Style Rally Without Permit

Organizers of the event appeared to model their actions on Patriot Front, one of the most prominent white nationalist organizations in the United States. Close to 50 men, many in hats, sunglasses, and facial coverings, lined up in front of Brock’s Monument, chanting slogans including “Leafs fight back” and “All thy sons.” The demonstration occurred while the park was open to the public, with bystanders — including families, women wearing hijabs, and international visitors — watching nearby.

Niagara Parks, which oversees Queenston Heights, issued a statement confirming that Second Sons Canada had no permit and no authorization to hold the rally. “Upon review, our understanding is that the rally remained peaceful and no incidents were reported,” the agency said. “With that said, Niagara Parks and the Niagara Parks Police Service do not condone the actions of the Second Sons, nor the beliefs that the group represents.”

The Niagara Regional Police responded to a nuisance call at approximately 7 p.m. Saturday. Officers reported that the group had dispersed before they arrived and said no criminal activity was observed. While police did not officially link the call to the nationalist rally, videos appeared online later that evening confirming the group’s presence.



Second Sons’ Origins and Links to Extremism

Second Sons Canada is a recent offshoot of Diagolon, an anti-government, anti-institution group founded during the COVID-19 pandemic by far-right social media figure Jeremy MacKenzie. Known for promoting militant, separatist views, Diagolon emerged during pandemic-era demonstrations, including links to the so-called “Freedom Convoy.”

The Canadian Anti-Hate Network previously documented the Second Sons after a smaller rally at a Dartmouth, Nova Scotia cenotaph in March. Since then, they have been tracked to gyms and meeting places in Welland, Ontario, where members were reportedly training in private before attempting to establish a public presence.

In promotional materials, Second Sons describes itself as a “Canadian men’s nationalist club” emphasizing health, fitness, activism, and camaraderie. Prospective members must complete a background check, meet a fitness standard, and pay club fees. On its website, the group claims members wear masks to shield their identities from harassment in what it describes as a polarized and divided society.


A University of Winnipeg professor says a Second Sons Canada march toward Brock’s Monument was symbolic.Photo credit: @Derekrants / X screenshot.

Symbolism of Brock’s Monument

The site chosen for the Niagara rally carries historical resonance. Maj.-Gen. Sir Isaac Brock, a central figure in the War of 1812, is memorialized at the monument after falling in battle at Queenston Heights.


The structure occupies a commanding position overlooking
the Niagara River and Canada’s border with the United States.


Kawser Ahmed, professor of political science at the University of Winnipeg who studies radicalism and violent extremism, said the rally’s location was not coincidental. “This is something very common in white supremacist groups throughout the Western world — Europe, the U.S., Australia, and here,” he explained. “They choose monuments tied to imperialism, nationalism, or military victory as symbols of cultural dominance.”

Ahmed said that by rallying at Brock’s Monument, Second Sons signals allegiance to an imagined Anglo-Saxon lineage, reinforcing exclusionary narratives of who belongs in Canada. “They think these countries were founded by Anglo-Saxons and that there’s no place for immigrants here,” he added.


Members of the white nationalist group Second Sons Canada line up in Queenston Heights Park. Photo credit: @postyonx / X screenshot.

Growing Visibility and Strategic Risk

The Labour Day march represented a shift from the group’s previously private organizing methods to overt public action. Activists monitoring extremist movements contend that the demonstration amounts to “testing the waters.”

Saleh Waziruddin, chair of the Niagara Region Anti-Racism Association, said the group’s actions show emboldenment. “We knew they were there, showing up in ones and twos,” he said. “But this is a larger, open rally in public. They’re being open with their hate.”

Waziruddin cautioned that mainstream debates about housing and immigration may inadvertently fuel far-right talking points. He cited the Prime Minister Mark Carney government’s recent tightening of student visa and temporary worker caps, arguing such measures falsely elevate migrants as scapegoats for economic pressures. “That could get more people recruited to groups like Second Sons,” he warned.

Ahmed agreed, noting that some extremist movements evolve by probing legal tolerance. In Canada, where hate speech and online harms laws are stricter than in the United States, militants face greater formal constraints. Yet, he noted, the pandemic’s convoy protests demonstrated that even unlawful activity may become incubators for larger networks of extremists. “They’re aware of the risks,” Ahmed said. “They want to see what law enforcement agencies will do.”


Echoes of U.S. Extremist Movements

Observers noted striking parallels to the American far-right.

The facemasks, march formation, and use of nationalistic slogans echo the Patriot Front, which emerged from the ashes of the violent Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017.

Both groups deploy imagery of patriotism and physical training as recruiting tools to frame themselves as disciplined defenders of “true nationalism.”

Although the Second Sons deny violent intentions and claim to prioritize fitness and fellowship, experts emphasize the broader risks of normalizing intimidation in public spaces.

“These are public spectacles designed to recruit and normalize white nationalism,” Ahmed said. “Even if they remain peaceful in one instance, the trajectory historically points to escalation.”


Public Reaction and Future Risks

Online response to the rally has been mixed, with some far-right accounts celebrating the event and the group itself boasting of an “avalanche of applications” following the Niagara march. For critics, the concern is that tolerance of such gatherings could accelerate growth from dozens to hundreds of organized members.

Niagara Parks has promised to review its permitting and monitoring policies, though it emphasized that the Brock’s Monument event passed without reported incident. For community groups, however, the lack of confrontation is not reassurance but a warning.

“This is how it starts,” Waziruddin said. “They test the space, then become more aggressive. We need to recognize that trajectory if we’re going to stop them before they escalate.”



Canada: Masked White Nationalist Group Marches in Niagara (Sept. 9, 2025)


This Labour Day weekend, the Canadian white nationalist group Second Sons Canada staged a dramatic rally at Brock’s Monument in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Masked and uniformed, dozens of men marched in formation before onlookers at Queenston Heights Park, invoking symbols of nationalism and exclusion. Experts say the event represents both a symbolic gesture and a test of Canada’s legal and social boundaries, while activists warn the rally signals a dangerous escalation of public white supremacist activity.


#SecondSonsCanada #Niagara #BrocksMonument #WhiteNationalism #AntiRacism
#CanadaPolitics #QueenstonHeights #Extremism #SocialCrisis #FreedomConvoy

Tags: Second Sons Canada, Niagara, Queenston Heights Park, Brock’s Monument, War of 1812,
Jeremy MacKenzie, Diagolon, Anti-Racism, Niagara Parks, Canadian Anti-Hate Network


Roosevelt Island Charity Furniture Auction Benefits Orphans


Retired U.N. staff member donates furniture, proceeds fund Roosevelt Island-based global charity Orphans International, pickup deadline September 18


New York, N.Y. – A unique charity event is unfolding this September on Roosevelt Island, where the departure of a long-serving United Nations employee has sparked an impromptu yet meaningful “furniture auction” for a global cause.



Having retired back to her home country, the staffer left behind a residence filled with carefully maintained furnishings, all of which are now being offered to the public in a one-time benefit for Orphans International Worldwide (OIW), a New York-registered nonprofit headquartered on Roosevelt Island.

Unlike a traditional auction house event with formality, gavel strikes, and bidding paddles, this grassroots initiative instead invites interested participants to text offers directly to a dedicated line at 347-316-7087. Each furniture piece has been assigned a letter, and prospective donors are asked to note that letter alongside their bid in the text message.


The highest reasonable offer for each item secures it, with pickup
required on Roosevelt Island by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18.


The urgency of the timeframe, the quality of the furniture available, and the charitable purpose behind the effort give this simple “auction” remarkable resonance, bridging personal transition, community generosity, and humanitarian need on an international scale.



Orphans International Worldwide: A Roosevelt Island Legacy

Founded in the late 1990s, Orphans International Worldwide was organized on Roosevelt Island with a mission to support some of the world’s most vulnerable children. The group has grown from early projects centered in South America and Asia to a broader network of worldwide initiatives. Unlike many children’s relief organizations, OIW frames its philosophy as caring for orphaned and underprivileged children “as one’s own,” reflecting a deeply personal humanitarian creed.

As a New York State-registered nonprofit, the organization has historically engaged Roosevelt Island residents in global service. Events such as walkathons, neighborhood fundraisers, and benefit concerts have long fostered links between local communities and international relief projects. This furniture auction, while modest in scale, demonstrates the adaptability of OIW’s fundraising approach: creatively connecting resources from ordinary households to extraordinary needs abroad.



Roosevelt Island as Global Home and Departure Point

The presence of U.N. employees on Roosevelt Island is neither new nor unusual. Positioned in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, the narrow residential community has long drawn civil servants and diplomats seeking tranquility within sight of the Secretariat Building. Yet the departure of U.N. staff often leaves behind material reminders of their stay in New York.

For one retiring colleague, returning to a home country meant parting with an array of possessions—from bookshelves and dining tables to sofas, beds, and traditional cabinets—that could not accompany her abroad. Rather than selling through commercial platforms or discarding these furnishings, she chose to allow them to serve a larger purpose. Her decision to direct proceeds toward OIW exemplifies the convergence of individual legacy and institutional charity on Roosevelt Island.



How the Auction Works

The mechanics of the Roosevelt Island charity auction are intentionally simple. Each piece of furniture is labeled in advance with letters for easy identification—A, B, C, and onward. Community participants or interested New York residents text their desired item’s letter and the price they are willing to contribute. From there, organizers award the item to the highest offer received before the September 20 deadline.

Unlike commercial sales, no haggling is encouraged, and all proceeds funnel directly into OIW’s global programs. Pickups must be coordinated by bidders themselves and completed on Roosevelt Island, with logistical urgency underscoring the ephemeral character of the event.

Practical as well as symbolic, the furniture auction emphasizes notions of stewardship and responsibility. Pieces once used in service of a career at the United Nations are now transitioning to build new lives in local homes, while simultaneously benefiting children thousands of miles away.



Community Spirit Meets International Development

On one level, the Roosevelt Island sale is an efficient means of reusing and redistributing durable household goods. On a larger scale, however, it highlights the continuing role of communities in shaping global philanthropy.

The hybrid character of Roosevelt Island—suburban-feeling but cosmopolitan, modern but historically layered—fosters unusual civic opportunities. Former hospitals and factories have long since given way to residential towers now housing artists, civil servants, professionals, and families. When these lives intersect with global humanitarian efforts, even an everyday household occurrence such as a move-out or sale can reverberate outward.

OIW’s continuing connection to Roosevelt Island is emblematic of this ethos. Founded on values of community, sustainability, and inclusivity, the organization transforms local goodwill into international life-support for children in need, from scholarships to medical assistance. This auction marks a continuation of that tradition.



Pickup Deadline and Call to Action

For interested participants, timing is crucial. All items must be claimed and removed by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18. Text-based offers should be sent to 347-316-7087, identifying both the piece’s letter and the dollar amount bid. “Zero Dollars” are also accepted as all items must go!

Furniture auctions of this community-driven type rarely occur within Roosevelt Island’s close-knit environment, particularly at the intersection of a U.N. departure and a nonprofit fundraiser.

Participants thus have an opportunity not only to acquire quality furnishings but also to ensure lasting value for communities across the globe.


At its core, this September initiative embodies a simple but profound exchange: material remnants of one life chapter become resources for the creation of brighter futures for children afar. Roosevelt Island once again stands as a testament to how local resilience and international service can meet in unexpected ways, turning private transition into shared opportunity.



Summary

An unusual charity auction unfolds on Roosevelt Island this September, where furniture left behind by a retiring U.N. employee will fund Orphans International Worldwide. Bidders text offers, with highest donors securing items by the September 20 deadline. Proceeds benefit children’s programs globally while reinforcing Roosevelt Island’s legacy of community-driven philanthropy. This initiative transforms household furnishing transitions into meaningful cross-border solidarity, linking one neighbor’s departure to a worldwide mission of care, resilience, and shared humanity.


#RooseveltIsland #CharityAuction #OrphansInternational #UnitedNations #NYCEvents #BenefitSale
#GlobalPhilanthropy #RooseveltIslandCommunity #NonprofitSupport #HumanitarianAction

Tags: Roosevelt Island, Orphans International Worldwide, United Nations, Global Philanthropy, Charity Auction,
Roosevelt Island Community, International Development, Nonprofit Fundraising, Benefit Events, Humanitarian Relief


Son’s Market Mission Honors Mother’s Memory Through Cancer Awareness


Young entrepreneur transforms grief into groundbreaking endometrial cancer education initiative at local farmers market


New York, N.Y. — Under the bustling canopy of our Saturday morning farmers market, between vendors selling fresh produce and artisanal goods, a young man named Zach has established something far more profound than a typical booth. His mission is deeply personal: raising awareness about endometrial cancer, the disease that claimed his mother’s life in 2013.


The project bears his mother’s nameLevinda—transformed into an acronym that captures her spirit and the fight against this often-overlooked gynecological cancer: L.E.V.I.N.D.A., standing for Living-Effectively-Vivaciously-Incredibly-Nutritionally-Dutifully-Acknowledgingly.


A Mother’s Legacy Lives On

Levinda H. Bullock was born on December 13, 1949, in Columbus, Ohio. Her journey took her from the Catholic and public schools of Wilson, North Carolina, where she graduated from C.H. Darden High School in 1968, to New York City, where she pursued her dream of becoming a dental assistant.

When family duty called—her father’s passing required her return to North Carolina to care for her mother and younger siblings—Levinda answered without hesitation, beginning what would become a lifetime of service to others.

Those who knew Levinda describe a woman with “one of the biggest hearts and a smile to match.” Her unwavering faith in Jehovah God anchored her through life’s challenges and inspired her to start a Bible Study group with friends, where she and other women became missionaries, offering prayers and support to those in need.

Her son, William “Z-Fly” Bullock, recalls how his mother’s faith converted many friends, family members, and strangers to Christianity through her example and prayers.

On May 27, 2013, Levinda Bullock lost her battle with endometrial/uterine cancer at age 63. But her son’s determination ensures her legacy endures through The L.E.V.I.N.D.A. Project.



Understanding the Silent Threat

Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, ranks among the most common gynecological cancers affecting women, yet it remains significantly under-discussed compared to breast and cervical cancers. The disease begins in the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, and often presents with symptoms that women might initially dismiss as normal reproductive health changes.


Gynecologic cancer is any cancer that starts in a woman’s reproductive
organs. Cancer is always named for the part of the body where it starts.
Gynecologic cancers begin in different places within a woman’s pelvis.


The L.E.V.I.N.D.A. Project aims to bridge this knowledge gap through comprehensive education about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options. The initiative’s mission focuses on educating, supporting, and strengthening women living with endometrial cancer and their families, while highlighting the critical importance of early symptom identification.



From Radio Waves to Awareness Campaigns

Project founder William “Z-Fly” Bullock of Brooklyn, New York.

The project’s founder, William “Z-Fly” Bullock, brings a unique background to cancer awareness advocacy.

Born in North Carolina and relocating to New York City in 2009 to jumpstart his radio career, Z-Fly built his platform through his internet radio show “Keepin’ it Real, Hot & Fresh,” which premiered in September 2008.

His media experience, including hosting fundraising events, conducting backstage interviews at fashion shows, and meeting celebrities, provided him with the networking skills and platform necessary to amplify his mother’s story.

In 2012, Z-Fly created his own brand, Forever Live Young, an acronym derived from his pseudonym that serves as an umbrella organization for multiple social awareness initiatives.

The company focuses on four specific areas: gynecologic cancer (particularly endometrial/uterine), domestic violence, youth molestation, and male awareness.


The Seven Pillars of L.E.V.I.N.D.A.

Each letter of the L.E.V.I.N.D.A. acronym represents a crucial element in the journey of facing endometrial cancer:

Living emphasizes that a cancer diagnosis doesn’t mark the end—patients must remember there’s much to live for. Effectively focuses on maintaining a positive outlook to ensure treatments work properly. Vivaciously reframes the patient’s mindset from victim to victor, with cancer as the true victim. Incredibly acknowledges the bravery required to endure harsh treatments while staying strong. Nutritionally highlights the importance of cancer-fighting foods and strict dietary adherence. Dutifully stresses the necessity of maintaining treatment schedules, diet plans, medicine regimens, and exercise routines. Acknowledgingly emphasizes accepting one’s condition and its seriousness to fight the disease more effectively.


Levinda H. Bullock.

Building Community Through Awareness

The L.E.V.I.N.D.A. Project has appointed the Foundation for Women’s Cancer as its beneficiary, joining the National Race to End Women’s Cancer.

Through fundraising events, advocacy, education, community outreach programs, seminars, and church involvement for prayer support, the organization creates multiple touchpoints for education and support.

Z-Fly’s approach combines his entertainment industry background with serious health advocacy, creating events that provide job opportunities, encourage crowd participation, and deliver crucial education about gynecological cancers.

His vision statement—”Embracing the Community + Providing Wealth of Information + Developing New Talents = Achieving Dreams”—reflects this multifaceted approach.


The Market as a Mission Field

Seeing Z-Fly at the Saturday farmers market, surrounded by information about endometrial cancer and his mother’s story, represents a grassroots approach to health advocacy that many larger organizations might overlook. The market setting allows for personal, one-on-one conversations about a topic that many women find difficult to discuss with their healthcare providers, let alone strangers.

This direct community engagement model proves particularly effective for gynecological health topics, where cultural stigmas and personal privacy concerns often prevent open discussion. By meeting people where they are—in their neighborhood market—Z-Fly creates opportunities for education that might never occur in traditional healthcare settings.

The L.E.V.I.N.D.A. Project demonstrates how personal tragedy can transform into community benefit, ensuring that Levinda H. Bullock’s memory lives on through potentially life-saving education and support for women facing similar battles.


Son’s Market Mission Honors Mother’s Memory Through Cancer Awareness (Sept. 7, 2025)


Summary

Z-Fly Bullock honors his mother Levinda’s memory through The L.E.V.I.N.D.A. Project, raising endometrial cancer awareness at farmers markets. His mother died from this gynecological cancer in 2013. The acronym represents seven principles for fighting the disease. Using his media background, Z-Fly partners with the Foundation for Women’s Cancer, providing education through grassroots community outreach and creating meaningful conversations about women’s health.


#EndometrialCancerAwareness #WomensCancerSupport #LEVINDAProject #CommunityHealthAdvocacy
#GynecologicCancerEducation #CancerAwarenessInitiative #HealthcareAdvocacy #CommunityOutreach
TAGS: endometrial cancer, uterine cancer, women’s health, cancer awareness, community advocacy,
gynecological cancer, health education, cancer support, Levinda Bullock, Z-Fly Bullock,
Foundation for Women’s Cancer, farmers market outreach, grassroots healthcare, Brooklyn

Aboriginal Art Transcends Continents Through Simple T-Shirt Gift


Danny Eastwood’s Indigenous Artwork Bridges Cultural Gaps Between Australia and America Through Contemporary Canvas


New York, N.Y. — The most profound cultural exchanges often arrive in the most unexpected packages. When my friend returned from Australia carrying nothing more elaborate than a cotton t-shirt, neither of us anticipated the depth of storytelling woven into its fibers.


Yet this simple garment, painted by Danny Eastwood, would become a window into 65,000 years of Aboriginal heritage and a testament to how contemporary Indigenous artists are reclaiming their narratives on modern canvases.

Danny Eastwood, born in 1943, represents a generation of Aboriginal artists who witnessed Australia’s transformation from a nation that denied Indigenous citizenship to one slowly recognizing the world’s oldest continuous culture. As a descendant of the Ngemba Tribe of Western New South Wales, Eastwood carries the artistic traditions of his ancestors while adapting them to speak to contemporary audiences worldwide.


From Tribal Traditions to National Recognition

The journey from the riverlands of western New South Wales to national artistic acclaim reflects both personal resilience and broader cultural awakening. In 1992, Eastwood received the NADOC Aboriginal Artist of the Year award, a recognition that came during a pivotal decade for Aboriginal rights in Australia.

Tag of Australian Indigenous artist Danny Eastwood, born 1943, is a descendant of the Gemba Tribe of Western Sydney. Image credit: Australian Indigenous Art.

The National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NADOC) award, now known as NAIDOC, represents more than artistic achievement—it symbolizes the growing visibility of Indigenous voices in Australian society.

The Ngemba Tribe, Eastwood’s ancestral group, traditionally inhabited the fertile lands along the Barwon and Darling Rivers in western New South Wales.

These waterways served not only as sources of life but as highways of trade and cultural exchange between tribal groups. The geometric patterns, earth tones, and flowing designs characteristic of Ngemba art reflect this riverine heritage, translating ancient Dreamtime stories into visual narratives that transcend linguistic barriers.

Eastwood’s work emerges from this rich cultural foundation while engaging with contemporary realities. His paintings on t-shirts represent more than artistic adaptation—they constitute cultural diplomacy, carrying Aboriginal perspectives into everyday spaces where traditional canvases might never reach.


The Art of Cultural Translation

Indigenous Australian art operates on multiple levels of meaning, creating layers of interpretation that depend largely on the viewer’s cultural background and the artist’s willingness to share sacred knowledge. Eastwood’s work navigates these complexities by creating pieces that are simultaneously accessible to international audiences and deeply rooted in Aboriginal traditions.

The t-shirt medium itself carries significance beyond convenience. Cotton, while not native to Australia, has become interwoven with the continent’s colonial and post-colonial history. By choosing this canvas, Aboriginal artists like Eastwood reclaim a material associated with European settlement, transforming it into a vehicle for Indigenous storytelling.

Uluru Australian Indigenous Art, the organization associated with Eastwood’s work, represents a broader movement of Aboriginal artists seeking to control the presentation and distribution of their cultural expressions. This approach addresses decades of cultural appropriation while creating economic opportunities for Indigenous communities.


Contemporary Challenges in Indigenous Art

The globalization of Aboriginal art presents both opportunities and challenges for artists like Eastwood. International appreciation for Indigenous Australian aesthetics has created unprecedented market demand, yet this popularity also risks commodifying sacred cultural elements. Authentic Aboriginal artists must balance cultural preservation with economic necessity, ensuring that increased visibility doesn’t compromise cultural integrity.

Eastwood’s generation of artists particularly grapples with questions of authenticity and cultural authority. Born during an era when Aboriginal people were still denied basic citizenship rights, these artists have witnessed their culture’s evolution from marginalization to mainstream appreciation. Their work often reflects this complex relationship with both tradition and modernity.

The art market’s embrace of Aboriginal aesthetics has also attracted non-Indigenous artists seeking to profit from Indigenous-inspired designs. This phenomenon has prompted calls for stronger authentication systems and greater support for genuine Aboriginal artists like Eastwood.


Art as Cultural Bridge Building

The author wearing his gifted Aboriginal art T-shirt from Australia.

The t-shirt that traveled from Australia to New York represents more than artistic appreciation—it exemplifies how material culture can facilitate cross-cultural understanding.

In an era of increasing global connectivity, such objects serve as tangible connections between distant communities and different ways of understanding the world.

For Aboriginal artists, international recognition provides platforms to share their perspectives on universal themes: connection to land, spiritual relationships with nature, and the importance of cultural continuity.

Eastwood’s work, while deeply rooted in Ngemba traditions, speaks to broader human experiences of place, identity, and belonging.

The choice of t-shirt as canvas also reflects practical considerations for traveling art collectors.

Unlike traditional bark paintings or large canvases, wearable art travels easily and integrates into daily life, ensuring continued engagement with the artistic message.


Legacy and Future Directions

As Aboriginal art continues gaining international recognition, artists like Danny Eastwood play crucial roles in defining how Indigenous Australian culture presents itself to the world. Their work influences not only aesthetic appreciation but also broader understanding of Aboriginal history, spirituality, and contemporary experiences.

The success of Aboriginal artists in international markets has also created opportunities for younger Indigenous artists seeking to build careers while maintaining cultural connections. Eastwood’s recognition through the NADOC award helped establish pathways for subsequent generations of Aboriginal artists.

The t-shirt now hangs in a New York closet, but its significance extends far beyond personal collection. It represents successful cultural translation, economic empowerment for Indigenous communities, and the enduring power of art to create connections across vast distances and different worldviews.

Through simple cotton fibers and traditional pigments, Danny Eastwood has created a bridge between the ancient Dreamtime stories of the Ngemba Tribe and contemporary global consciousness. In doing so, he demonstrates that the most profound cultural exchanges often arrive in the most accessible packages, waiting to unfold their stories to those willing to look beyond surface appearances.


NAIDOC Week in Australia was born out of the spirit of protest by the National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee (NADOC). Photo credit: NAIDOC

Aboriginal Art Transcends Continents Through Simple T-Shirt Gift (Sept. 6, 2025)


Summary

Danny Eastwood, born 1943 and descendant of Australia’s Ngemba Tribe, creates powerful cultural bridges through his Aboriginal art. The 1992 NADOC Aboriginal Artist of the Year transforms traditional Indigenous storytelling by painting on contemporary canvases like t-shirts. His work represents more than artistic adaptation—it constitutes cultural diplomacy, carrying 65,000 years of Aboriginal heritage into everyday spaces worldwide, demonstrating how authentic Indigenous art can transcend geographical boundaries while maintaining deep cultural integrity.


#AboriginalArt #IndigenousArt #DannyEastwood #NgembaTribe #AustralianArt
#NADOC #IndigenousRights #CulturalBridge #AboriginalHeritage #UluruArt

TAGS: Danny Eastwood, Aboriginal art, Indigenous Australian art, Ngemba Tribe, NADOC artist, cultural diplomacy,
contemporary canvas, Aboriginal heritage, Western New South Wales, Uluru Australian Indigenous Art,
traditional art, cultural preservation, art collection, cross-cultural understanding, Indigenous rights


Stand-Up Comedy Night Boosts Bold Beauty Project


Event at Stand Up NY Supports Disability Art on September 20


Editor John Laing.

New York, N.Y. – On Saturday, September 20, 2025, Stand Up NY at Bond 45 will host a vibrant evening of laughter and inspiration, benefiting the Bold Beauty Project, a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating women with disabilities through powerful photography exhibitions.


This first-of-its-kind comedy benefit, starting at 9:00 p.m., promises an unforgettable night of humor while advancing the mission of transforming perceptions of disability into beauty, art, and social change. With tickets starting at US$25, the event at 221 West 46th Street, New York City, aims to draw a diverse crowd to support this meaningful cause.


Night of Laughter for Transformative Cause

The Bold Beauty Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has been redefining societal perceptions since its inception, using art as a catalyst for change.

Founded to highlight the strength and beauty of women with disabilities, the organization curates large-scale photography exhibitions paired with personal narratives that resonate globally.

The September 20 comedy benefit at Stand Up NY marks a new chapter in their fundraising efforts, blending entertainment with advocacy to amplify their mission.

“Art has the power to shift perspectives, and comedy can open hearts,” said Jim Luce, a key supporter through the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation.

“This event is a celebration of resilience and creativity, showcasing how disability becomes beauty, becomes art, becomes change.”

The J. Luce Foundation has long championed initiatives that promote inclusion, making this benefit a natural fit for their mission.

The event, hosted at Bond 45, a renowned venue in the heart of New York’s Theater District, will feature a lineup of talented comedians, though specific performers have yet to be announced.

The intimate setting, with a capacity of approximately 200 seats, ensures an engaging experience for attendees, combining the energy of live comedy with the warmth of a community-driven cause.


The Bold Beauty Project’s Vision

Since its founding, the Bold Beauty Project has created exhibitions across the U.S., including notable shows in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Washington, D.C. Their work emphasizes the intersection of disability and beauty, challenging stereotypes through striking visual storytelling. By pairing award-winning photography with personal stories, the project creates vivid portraits that celebrate the diversity and strength of women with disabilities.

The organization’s reach extends beyond exhibitions. Since 2020, their Bold Beauty in Action program has worked to reduce social isolation by fostering virtual connections among women with disabilities nationwide. Monthly meetings, held on the second Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., feature guest speakers, discussions, and support group-style sessions. These initiatives align with the organization’s broader goal of building community and empowering participants.

The comedy benefit will directly support these programs, funding future exhibitions and community-building efforts. According to Shelly Baer, the project’s founder, every dollar raised helps expand their reach, bringing their message to new audiences and creating opportunities for women to share their stories.


A Community Effort

The event is organized by a dedicated committee, including Eva Ritvo, Patrice Samara, Nicholas Bielamowicz, Emily Goodson, Jim Luce, Kelly Mahoney, Lisa Nalven, Perri Neri, Gigi Nestor, Joy Pearl Peloso, Susi Raphael, Juliet Romeo, and Andrea Wenrich. Their collective efforts reflect a shared commitment to advancing the Bold Beauty Project’s mission.

“Bringing together comedy and philanthropy is a unique way to engage the community,” said Dr. Eva Ritvo, a committee member and prominent advocate for social causes. “This event not only raises funds but also sparks conversations about inclusion and representation.” The committee’s diverse backgrounds, spanning art, philanthropy, and advocacy, ensure a well-rounded approach to promoting the event and its goals.

The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation, a key supporter, has a history of backing initiatives that align with the United NationsSustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on reducing inequalities. Their involvement underscores the event’s significance as a platform for social change, with proceeds directly benefiting the Bold Beauty Project’s ongoing work.


Why Comedy Matters

Comedy as a medium has a unique ability to break down barriers and foster connection. By hosting the benefit at Stand Up NY, a staple of New York’s comedy scene since 1986, the Bold Beauty Project taps into the city’s vibrant entertainment culture. The venue, located at Bond 45, is just steps from Times Square, making it an accessible and iconic spot for both locals and tourists.

The choice of comedy aligns with the project’s ethos of challenging norms with creativity. “Laughter disarms us, makes us think, and brings us together,” said Patrice Samara, a senior committee member. “It’s the perfect way to draw attention to the Bold Beauty Project and its mission.” The event’s 9:00 p.m. start time ensures a lively, late-night atmosphere, with doors opening at 8:30 p.m. to accommodate guests.

Tickets, starting at US$25 (approximately €22.50), are designed to be accessible, encouraging a broad audience to participate. The event’s pricing reflects a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that supporters of all backgrounds can contribute to the cause. Organizers expect a full house, with ticket sales already gaining momentum through the Bold Beauty Project’s website and social media channels.


Looking Ahead

The September 20 benefit is just one part of the Bold Beauty Project’s ambitious plans for 2025. Upcoming initiatives include new exhibitions, expanded virtual programming, and partnerships with organizations like the Rotary Club Coconut Grove, which will host a fundraiser later in the year. The project’s past collaborations, including events at Yale University, UCLA, and the Association of University Centers on Disabilities, highlight its growing influence in academic and advocacy circles.

For attendees, the comedy benefit offers more than just entertainment—it’s a chance to be part of a movement. “This is about more than a single night,” said Jim Luce. “It’s about building a world where everyone’s story is seen and valued.” By blending humor with purpose, the Bold Beauty Project and Stand Up NY are creating a powerful platform for change.

As the event approaches, the committee encourages early ticket purchases through www.boldbeautyproject.com. With limited seating at Bond 45, demand is expected to be high. For those unable to attend, donations to the Bold Beauty Project can be made directly through their website, ensuring that the mission continues to thrive.


#BoldBeautyProject #ComedyBenefit #StandUpNY #DisabilityArt #Inclusion

Tags: Bold Beauty Project, Stand Up NY, comedy benefit, disability art, New York City


Summary

On September 20, 2025, Stand Up NY hosts a comedy benefit at Bond 45 for the Bold Beauty Project, celebrating women with disabilities through art. Starting at 9:00 p.m., tickets begin at US$25. The event, backed by the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation, features top comedians and supports a mission to foster inclusion and challenge societal norms through stunning photography exhibitions.



Wordeee’s Forward-Thinking Model Intros New Era for Publishing

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“You never change things by fighting the existing reality.
To change something, build a new model that makes
the existing model obsolete.” — Buckminster Fuller


New York, N.Y. An estimated 2.2 to 2.4 million new books were published as of 2024 worldwide including print books, eBooks, audio books and other formats. Publishing used to be controlled by the caretakers of the industry. Today, anyone with a computer can hit publish and can be labeled a writer.


However, in the professional publishing industry still bound by tradition, Wordeee is rewriting the rules. Guided by the visionary leadership of CEO Marva Allen and COO Patrice Samara, their hybrid publishing platform is not just disrupting the status quo—it’s replacing it. Inspired by Buckminster Fuller’s timeless wisdom, Wordeee has built a new model for publishing that empowers authors, embraces technology, and fosters global connection.

Wordeee authors at the Free Library of Philadelphia Sharla Feldscher, Pamela C.V. Jolly and Sheryl Lee Ralph holding her book “DIVA 2.0” with Marva Allen and Patrice Samara. Photo credit: Wordeee.

Wordeee isn’t just a publisher—it’s a new model for a new era. It’s a literary and entertainment hub that integrates storytelling with multimedia expansion.

Authors aren’t just creators; they’re collaborators in a dynamic ecosystem that supports their work from manuscript and print to Booksetters, Wordeee’s bespoke literary travel program and movie deals.

Unlike traditional publishers or self-publishing platforms, Wordeee offers a full-service hybrid model. They have developed a highly selective evaluation process based on the strength of ideas, genre, creativity and author profile ensuring a curated, high-impact catalog.

Authors receive editorial guidance, world class design, ongoing support, distribution and access to tools that extend  and promote their work.

Marva Allen, Wordeee’s founder and CEO, is a powerhouse of publishing, technology, and entrepreneurship. The architect of innovation, with a background that includes co-founding a multimillion-dollar tech company and receiving accolades like the IBM & Kodak Excellence Award and Crain’s 40 Under 40, Allen brings a 360-degree view of business and creativity. An accomplished author, she is also a renowned industry trailblazer as the owner of the HueMan Bookstore.


Her mission? To return the power of words to the artist.

TV host, creative director, make-up artist and Wordeee author Jay Manuel with Marva Allen, CEO Wordeee. Photo credit: Patrice Samara

Allen’s stewardship of Wordeee reflects her belief that publishing should be exciting, engaging, and inclusive. She’s built a platform where authors are not just heard—they’re amplified.

As COO and co-founder, Patrice Samara, the strategist behind the spotlight, brings Emmy-winning expertise in media, communications, and global production.

She’s also the author of eight children’s books. With over fifty international awards and a resume that includes Fortune 500 consulting and being a respected U.N. NGO representative, Samara is the engine behind Wordeee’s white-glove author support.

Her impact is tangible: during the COVID-19 pandemic, Samara orchestrated complex international virtual book launches that showcased Wordeee’s agility and commitment to author visibility… which continues today.  

She ensures that every story told reaches its audience with clarity, creativity, and resonance through Wordeee Newsletters and outreach.


Stewardship through storytelling is the Wordeee mantra.

Wordeee’s model is more than innovative—it’s deeply ethical. By focusing on quality, diversity, and author empowerment, they are stewarding a new generation of storytellers and impactful writers.


Their platform reflects a belief in literature as a force for cultural
connection, critical information, entertainment and social change.


In an age of algorithms and limited attention spans, Wordeee reminds us that stories still matterand that the way we share them must evolve.

Whether a book on building generational wealth or the challenges of divorce to celebrity memoirs and children’s books, the Wordeee catalog has something for everyone. Encouraging parents to read actual printed books to young digital natives, it allows children to develop reading comprehension benefits to last a lifetime.

Wordeee doesn’t fight the old publishing model—it renders it obsolete. Through visionary leadership, technological integration, and a fierce commitment to author empowerment, Allen, Samara and their highly dedicated team are building the future of publishing. And in doing so, they’re proving that stewardship isn’t just about preserving—it’s about pioneering.


Wordeee’s Forward-Thinking Model Intros New Era for Publishing (Sept. 4, 2025)


Summary

Wordeee introduces a forward-thinking model for the publishing industry, led by CEO Marva Allen and COO Patrice Samara. Their platform empowers authors with innovative technology, global connection, and multimedia integration. Offering a hybrid model, Wordeee provides editorial and promotional support, diversity-focused curation, and collaboration. By rendering old models obsolete, Wordeee is pioneering a new literary era driven by qualityauthor empowerment, and transformative storytelling.


#Wordeee #PublishingInnovation #LiteraryHub #AuthorEmpowerment
#HybridPublishing #BookIndustry #StorytellingRevolution

TAGS: Wordeee, publishing model, innovation, hybrid publishing, author empowerment, diversity
multimedia, technology, literature, Marva Allen, Patrice Samara, storytelling, literary hub