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    Carrying the Weight of Silence: Time to Tell My Mother the Truth?

    Liz Webster
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    Carrying the Weight of Silence: Time to Tell My Mother the Truth?

    Dear Dr. Sami –
    When I was 13, family friends stayed in our home, and their 16-year old son was asked to share a double bed with me. Our family is white, and their family is Black. That night, he raped me in my sleep. I was traumatized but couldn’t bring myself to tell my mom. The next night, I tried to sleep on the floor, but mom checked in on us and thought I was avoiding the bed because he was Black. She insisted I get back in bed with him, and that night, he raped me again. For years, this experience has haunted me – not just because of the trauma itself, but because I hate the idea of being seen as racist. I never refused to share the bed because of race – it was because I was trying to protect myself. Now, nearly 20 years later, l’ve worked through a lot of this in therapy, and feel more comfortable talking about it. Should I tell mom what really happened?
    – Hurting But Healing

    Dear Hurting But Healing,

    First, I want to acknowledge the incredible strength it takes to share this story. What happened to you was not your fault. You were a child, placed in a terrible situation where your voice wasn’t heard, and the trauma you experienced has understandably stayed with you. I’m deeply sorry for what you went through.

    Why Tell Your Mom Now?

    It sounds like a part of you wants to share this with your mother—not to blame her, but to help her understand something that has shaped your life. The fact that you’ve done work in therapy and now feel more comfortable discussing it means you are in a different place emotionally than you were as a child. This could be an important step in your healing.

    Your mother may have no idea that her actions—insisting you return to the bed—had such devastating consequences. If she had known the truth back then, she likely would have reacted differently. Telling her now may help correct any false narratives she has about that time, and, more importantly, it may allow you to release the burden of holding this alone.

    Will She Blame Herself?

    It’s possible. Most parents, when faced with a situation where they unknowingly contributed to their child’s pain, feel deep guilt. She may struggle to process the fact that she didn’t protect you. But if your goal is simply for her to understand rather than to assign blame, you can frame the conversation with that in mind.

    You might say something like:

    “Mom, there’s something from my childhood that has haunted me for a long time. I don’t blame you for this, but I need you to know what happened so you can understand why I reacted the way I did back then—and why it has stayed with me.”

    This way, you’re reassuring her upfront that your intention is not to hurt her but to share something meaningful.

    How to Decide If You’re Ready

    Before having the conversation, consider what you hope to gain from it. Are you looking for acknowledgment? An apology? A deeper understanding between you? If you feel telling her will help you heal or strengthen your relationship, then it may be the right choice. If you’re worried about her reaction or how it might affect you emotionally, it’s okay to take more time or seek guidance from your therapist on how to navigate it.

    Whatever You Choose, Your Healing Matters

    Whether you decide to tell her or not, the most important thing is that you are finding ways to heal. You have already taken steps to process your trauma through therapy, and that is powerful. No matter what, please know that your experience is valid, your pain is real, and you deserve to be heard and supported.

    With Compassion,
    Dr. Sami Milan

    National Sexual Assault Hotline
    (800.656.HOPE y rainn.org/es)

    #HealingFromTrauma #ParentingAndSupport #BreakingTheSilence #SurvivorStories #MentalHealthMatters #DrSamiMilan

    Navigating Modern Life with Compassion: Introducing Dr. Sami Milan

    AIDS Epidemic Resurging? Trump’s Funding Cuts Put Millions at Risk  

    Liz Webster
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    AIDS Epidemic Resurging? Trump’s Funding Cuts Put Millions at Risk  

    New York, N.Y. — The fight against HIV/AIDS is at a critical juncture. Decades of progress in reducing deaths and infections could be undone if the U.S. government pulls its funding from global HIV/AIDS programs. The United Nations AIDS agency (UNAIDS) has issued a stark warning this week, estimating that more than six million people could die in the next four years if these cuts go through.

    Since its inception in 2003, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has saved millions of lives, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the Trump administration has signaled a potential withdrawal of support, putting millions at risk. Organizations relying on U.S. funding for antiretroviral treatment, prevention programs, and community outreach efforts may be forced to shut down, reversing years of progress.

    “The world is at a tipping point,” said UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima. “If the U.S. withdraws its support, we could see a resurgence.”

    Right-wing social media continue to engulf the Internet with insane claims that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated $15 million for condoms to the Taliban, sparking significant controversy and skepticism. This assertion was notably made by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) during an interview with CNN anchor Boris Sanchez, leading to a heated exchange.  

    USAID officials have categorically refuted these allegations, however, emphasizing that no direct assistance has been provided to the Taliban. The Right-wing social media made it up.

    The Stewardship Report breaks this purported US$15 million down: the cost of a standard condom varies globally but averages $0.05 per unit, for 300,000,000 condoms. The Taliban comprises approximately 75,000 members. This represents 4,000 condoms per Jihadist.

    AIDS Epidemic Resurging? Trump’s Funding Cuts Put Millions at Risk (Feb. 14, 2025)

    Macron’s France Leads Way: Disability-Related Costs Now Fully Covered

    Liz Webster
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    Macron’s France Leads Way: Disability-Related Costs Now Fully Covered

    Paris, France — Beginning in 2025, France now fully reimbursed disability-related expenses, fulfilling a promise made by President Emmanuel Macron in 2023. This initiative simplifies procedures and ensures people with disabilities receive financial support without bureaucratic hurdles.

    The move reflects France’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, easing the financial burden on individuals and families. By streamlining the process, the government aims to remove barriers that have long hindered access to essential care and services.

    Disability advocates have welcomed the policy, calling it a significant step toward equality. The reimbursement plan is part of broader reforms to enhance social protections and improve quality of life for disabled individuals across France.

    #DisabilityRights #France #Macron #Inclusion #Accessibility #EqualOpportunities #SocialJustice #DisabilitySupport

    Bangladesh Protests Probe Reveals Top Leaders Led Brutal Repression

    United Nations
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    Bangladesh Protests Probe Reveals Top Leaders Led Brutal Repression

    New York, N.Y. — The repression of mass protests in Bangladesh last year that toppled longtime prime minister Sheikh Hasina left as many as 1,400 people dead in just 46 days – the vast majority shot by security forces, U.N. Human Rights chief Volker Türk said this week.

    In addition to those killed by the former government’s security and intelligence services alongside Awami League party associates, a report by the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) into the alleged crimes indicated that thousands were injured, including one youngster who was shot in the hand at point-blank range for throwing stones.

    “There are reasonable grounds to believe that officials of the former government, its security and intelligence apparatus, together with violent elements associated with the former ruling party, committed serious and systematic human rights violations,” the High Commissioner for Human Rights said.

    Speaking in Geneva, Mr. Türk highlighted that some of the gravest violations detailed in the report may constitute international crimes that could be heard by the International Criminal Court (ICC), as Bangladesh is a State party to the Rome Statute which created the tribunal in The Hague. The ICC’s foundational Statute gives it jurisdiction over genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression (following an amendment in 2010).

    Alleged crimes in Bangladesh against the student-led protest included “hundreds of extrajudicial killings, extensive arbitrary arrest and detention and torture, and ill treatment, including of children, as well as gender based violence,” the U.N. rights chief said.

    Iron grip on power

    Furthermore, these violations “were carried out with the knowledge, coordination and direction of the former political leadership and senior security officials, with a specific goal of suppressing the protests and keep the former government’s grip on power”.

    According to the OHCHR report, as many as 12 to 13 per cent of those killed were children. Bangladesh Police also reported that 44 of its officers were killed between 1 July and 15 August 2024.

    Last summer’s protests that led Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down after fifteen years in power were triggered by the High Court’s decision to reinstate a deeply unpopular quota system in public service jobs. But broader grievances were already entrenched, arising from “destructive and corrupt politics and governance” that spurred inequality, the U.N. Human Rights Office report maintained.

    “I went to one of the hospitals in in Bangladesh when I visited, and I could talk to some of the survivors and some of them will be disabled for their lives. Especially young people…some of them were children,” Mr. Türk told journalists in Geneva, recounting his visit to Dhaka in September.

    State killings

    “The brutal response was a calculated and well-coordinated strategy by the former Government to hold onto power in the face of mass opposition,” insisted U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk.

    “The testimonies and evidence we gathered paint a disturbing picture of rampant State violence and targeted killings, that are amongst the most serious violations of human rights, and which may also constitute international crimes. Accountability and justice are essential for national healing and for the future of Bangladesh,” he added.

    The U.N. Human Rights Office probe mission started work in Bangladesh on 16 of September 2024 with a team that included a forensic physician, a weapons expert, a gender expert and an open-source analyst. The investigators visited protest hotspots including universities and hospitals. Their work was complemented by more than 900 witness testimonies.

    Bangladesh Protests Probe Reveals Top Leaders Led Brutal Repression (Feb. 12, 2025)

    Trump’s Cuts to Public Health Put World at Risk of Another Pandemic

    Jim Luce
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    Trump’s Cuts to Public Health Put World at Risk of Another Pandemic

    New York, N.Y. –– As someone who has spent a lifetime engaged in humanitarian efforts, I have seen firsthand the devastation that disease and poor public health infrastructure can bring to vulnerable populations. That’s why I am deeply alarmed by Donald Trump’s proposed cuts to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    These reckless reductions in funding threaten to cripple our ability to detect, prevent, and respond to emerging health threats. Given what we endured with COVID-19, it is unfathomable that we would so willingly set ourselves up for another pandemic.

    The WHI and CDC play critical roles in global disease surveillance, vaccine distribution, and outbreak preparedness

    These institutions are not just domestic safeguards; they are frontline defenses against pandemics that can spread across borders in a matter of weeks. The COVID-19 pandemic made it clear that health security anywhere is health security everywhere. Yet, rather than strengthening our defenses, Trump is slashing resources for the very agencies designed to keep us safe.

    Illustration of SARS-CoV-2, which causes Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

    History has shown us that pandemics are not once-in-a-lifetime events. In the past two decades alone, we have faced SARS, MERS, Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19. Scientists warn that it is not a question of if another deadly outbreak will occur, but when. The most effective way to mitigate such threats is through robust global cooperation, early detection, and well-funded response strategies. Gutting these programs to save a fraction of the federal budget is not just shortsighted—it is dangerous.

    Beyond the public health risks, these cuts also threaten global stability

    Pandemics do not just take lives; they cripple economies, destabilize governments, and widen the gaps of inequality. A well-prepared health infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a necessity for maintaining national security and global order.

    The Pandemic of 2020 should have been a wake-up call

    Instead, we are witnessing a return to the same ignorance and political posturing that left us vulnerable in the first place. Cutting funding for pandemic prevention is like dismantling the fire department after surviving a massive blaze. Have we learned nothing?

    As a nation, we cannot afford to repeat past mistakes. We must demand that Congress block these cuts and instead invest in strengthening public health infrastructure, both at home and abroad. The cost of inaction is measured in lives lost, economies shattered, and societies upended. If we fail to act now, we will pay a far greater price when the next pandemic inevitably arrives.

    History will judge us for the choices we make today. Let’s not be remembered as the generation that saw disaster coming and did nothing to stop it.

    Trump’s Cuts to Public Health Put World at Risk of Another Pandemic (Feb. 15, 2025)

    Jim Luce Writes Opinion, Analysis, Advice & Viewpoint

    Luce Publications™–Children’s Catalog

    Jim Luce
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    Luce Publications™–Children’s Catalog

    Children’s books in the five Children’s Series of Luce Publications, an imprint of the James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation, are available free of charge through The Stewardship Report, the foundation’s online publication, and at low cost through Amazon Books. Endorsed by Orphans International Worldwide, reflecting our commitment to children, families, and global citizenship. The series includes for readers aged 4-8: And It’s Okay (Dr. Bill Bauer), Clover The Magic Dog, Fun Around the World, and Growing Up Around the World; readers aged 8-12 will enjoy our anime-inspired series, Mike Blume and the Super Glasses. Copies are available for home, classrooms, and libraries. Most titles in the series are based on lived experiences.

    Authors: Dr. Bill Bauer & Jim Luce

    Series 1: And It’s Okay (Ages 4-8)

    By Dr. Bill Bauer

    Amputee
    Asthma
    Attention Deficit Disorder
    Autism
    Cerebral Palsy
    Cleft Palate
    Congenital Heart Defect
    Crohn’s Disease
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Depression
    Down SyndromeISBN 9798246846162stewardshipreport.org/i-have-down-syndrome-and-its-okay/
    Epilepsy
    Family Cancer Journeystewardshipreport.org/nana-and-pap-and-a-thing-called-cancer/
    Fragile X Syndrome
    Hearing Loss
    HIV & AIDS
    I’m Adopted
    I’m In Foster Care
    I’m Not a U.S. Citizen
    Juvenile Diabetes – DONE
    Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
    Learning Disability
    Muscular Dystrophy
    My Dad’s in a Wheelchair
    My Dad’s in Prison
    My English Isn’t Perfect Yet
    My Family Is Moving
    My Fragile Bones
    (Osteogenesis Imperfecta)
    My Mom’s in Prison
    My Parents Are Divorced
    My Parents Are Getting Divorced
    Severe Allergies
    Sickle Cell Disease
    Spina Bifida
    Stoma
    Tourette’s SyndromeISBN 9798247555902In progress
    Trauma (PTSD)
    Vision Loss
    Wheelchair User / I Use a Wheelchair

    Series 2: Clover, The Magic Dog (Ages 4-8)

    Jamie and Ahmed Visit the Pyramids
    Jamie and Enzo Visit the Eiffel Tower
    Jamie and Juan Visit Machu Picchu
    Jamie and Miguel Visit the Amazon
    Jamie and Ming Visit the Great Wall 

    Series 3: Fun Around the World (Ages 4-8)

    Fun Around the World is a gentle, inclusive children’s picture book series that celebrates curiosity, kindness, and imagination through everyday adventures with heart. Each story follows young children as they explore love, family, and joy—sometimes in magical or surprising ways—while learning that the world is full of wonder, differences, and possibilities.

    Make Way for Shih Tzu!
    A New York City Children’s Story    		stewardshipreport.org/make-way-for-shih-tzu-a-new-york-city-childrens-story/
    Molly McGillicuddy Picks Up Poodle Poop
    The Many Dogs of Molly McGillicuddyISBN 9798247027737
    www.amazon.com/dp/B0GM5TG915    		stewardshipreport.org/The-many-dogs-of-molly-mcgillicuddy/ https://
    Muditha, the Monk, and the Monkey
    The Island of Lollipop

    Series 4: Up Around World (Ages 4-8)

    Around the World in Queensstewardshipreport.org/around-the-world-in-queens/
    Aunt Betty and the Secret in the Forest
     Bobby Visits the Troxel’s Farmhttps://stewardshipreport.org/bobby-visits-the-troxels-farm/
    Donny the Big, Bad Bully
    Emil and the Baby Elephant
    Erin’s Exceptional Airplane Adventurestewardshipreport.org/erins-exceptional-airplane-adventure/
    Grandmother and the GhostsISBN: 9798247799092stewardshipreport.org/grandmother-and-the-ghosts/
    I Worry About My Friends and Their Familiesstewardshipreport.org/i-worry-about-my-friends-and-their-families/
    Jamal Climbs a Tall Tree
    Jamie and His Treefort
    Juan Carlos the Maid’s Son – and Presidentstewardshipreport.org/juan-carlos-the-maids-son-and-president/
    My Great-Grandfather William
    and the Titanic
    My Name Is Harry – and I’m Hungrystewardshipreport.org/my-name-is-harry-and-i-am-hungry/
    Muzi and the Mayflower
    Ryan, Ryu, and the
    Apples on the Other Side
    Skippy the SkepticISBN: 9798247404873stewardshipreport.org/skippy-the-skeptic/
    The Special World of Mathew Jamesstewardshipreport.org/the-special-world-of-mathew-james/
    Three New Little Sisters for Mathew
    Tran and Felicity, Truth and Fiction

    Series 5: Mike Blume and the Super Glasses (ages 8-12)

    Anime-influenced upper middle grade about 8-year-old Mike Blume, son of Gotham’s mayor, whose ‘super glasses’ help him and his best friend Kevin Xi navigate big-city adventures, civic dilemmas, and shih tzu rescues in a Gotham/NYC world.

    Lights of Las Vegas
    Snow Day in Gotham
    Stuck on the Subway 
    United Nations
    Zoo Day Rescue

    What is Birthright Citizenship?

    Voice of America
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    What is Birthright Citizenship?

    The Fourteenth Amendment, ratified in 1868, states: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.”

    Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump is reigniting a fierce debate: Should everyone born on U.S. soil automatically become a citizen? This question strikes at the heart of American identity, history and law.

    Trump signed an executive order last month seeking to end the right, but two federal judges have placed injunctions on the order, pausing it indefinitely.

    Here’s what you need to know about birthright citizenship.

    U.S. Deportation Flight Carrying Indian Migrants Lands in Punjab 

    Voice of America
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    U.S. Deportation Flight Carrying Indian Migrants Lands in Punjab 

    Washington, D.C. — A U.S. deportation flight carrying Indian nationals accused of entering the U.S. illegally landed in the northern state of Punjab Wednesday – the first such flight to India since the Trump administration launched a crackdown on undocumented immigrants.

    The military aircraft, which landed amid tight security, brought 104 deportees, according to media reports. Authorities did not confirm the number, but said the deportees will be received in a friendly manner.

    New Delhi, which does not want to make illegal immigration a contentious issue with Washington, has said that it is open to the return of undocumented Indians in the United States if their nationality is verified.

    President Donald Trump said last week that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him that the country would “do what’s right” in taking back illegal immigrants. His comment came following a phone conversation with Modi.

    In New Delhi, foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told a media briefing on Friday that India and the United States are engaged in a process to deter illegal migration and “cooperation between India and the U.S. is strong and effective in this domain. This will be evident in times to come.”

    U.S. Deportation Flight Carrying Indian Migrants Lands in Punjab (Feb. 5, 2025)

    Guantánamo — Historic Military Base in Disputed Territory

    Liz Webster
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    Guantánamo — Historic Military Base in Disputed Territory

    Washington, D.C. — Guantánamo Bay is the oldest military enclave that the U.S. maintains outside its borders, and also the only one maintained against the will of the country where it is located. The United States first seized Guantánamo Bay and established a naval base there in 1898 during the Spanish–American War in the Battle of Guantánamo Bay. In 1903, the United States and Cuba signed a lease granting the U.S. permission to use the land as a coaling and naval station.

    The base occupying a location on 45 square miles (117 km2) of land and water on the shore of Guantánamo Bay at the southeastern end of Cuba nearest Haiti. It has been leased to the U.S. with no end date since 1903 as a coaling station and naval base. The lease was $2,000 in gold per year until 1934, when the payment was set to match the value of gold in dollars; in 1974, the yearly lease was set to $4,085.

    Cuba Protests Possibly Illegal U.S. Presence

    Since taking power in 1959, the Cuban government has consistently protested against the U.S. presence on Cuban soil, arguing that the base was imposed on Cuba by force and is illegal under international law.

    Since 2002, the naval base has contained a military prison, for alleged unlawful combatants captured in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other places during the War on Terror. Cases of alleged torture of prisoners by the U.S. military, and their denial of protection under the Geneva Conventions, have been criticized.

    The base has been a focal point for debates over civil liberties, notably influenced by the landmark 2008 Supreme Court decision in Boumediene v. Bush. This ruling affirmed the constitutional right of detainees to challenge their detention through habeas corpus, highlighting the ongoing tensions between national security measures and fundamental civil liberties.

    The 1903 lease has no fixed expiration date; as such, it could only be ended if the U.S. Navy decided to abandon the area or both countries agreed mutually to end the lease.

    Guantánamo — Historic Military Base in Disputed Territory (Feb. 5, 2025)

    Erin’s Exceptional Airplane Adventure

    Jim Luce
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    VISUAL THEMES THROUGHOUT

    • Erin’s expressions: Nervous excitement → brave → wonder → joy → pride → contentment
    • Erin’s backpack – appears in almost every illustration (visual continuity)
    • Stuffed bunny – her comfort object, shows up periodically
    • The phone – appears when relevant (getting it, checking it, using it)
    • Color progression: Warm California sunshine → bright airport energy → cool airplane interior → aerial views (grand and colorful) → Boston arrival (slightly different light) → cozy warm evening

    PAGES 3-4: The Invitation

    The phone call came on a sunny afternoon in May.

    “We want you to come visit us at the beach house this summer!” Granny’s voice sang through the speaker. “We’ll build sandcastles and collect seashells and stay up late watching the stars!”

    Erin’s eyes grew wide. A whole summer in Boston with Granny and Grandpa! She could hardly believe it.

    But there was one problem. Mom and Dad both had to work all summer. They couldn’t take a vacation.

    “I have an idea,” Dad said, kneeling down to look Erin in the eyes. “What if you flew to Boston all by yourself? You’re in first grade now. You’re getting so grown-up.”

    Erin’s stomach did a little flip. Fly on an airplane? All by herself? That sounded scary… but also kind of exciting.

    Illustration: Split scene or two-panel approach:

    • LEFT: Erin sitting on the floor/couch with the phone on speaker between her parents. She’s wide-eyed, excited. Maybe she’s hugging a stuffed animal. Sunny afternoon light through windows.
    • RIGHT: Small inset or thought bubble showing Granny and Grandpa’s beach house – white cottage with blue shutters, sandy path leading to the ocean, seagulls in the sky. This is what Erin is imagining.

    Color palette: Warm golds and sunny yellows for the LA home, cool blues and sandy beiges for the beach house vision.

    PAGES 5-6: Getting Ready

    Over the next few weeks, Mom and Dad helped Erin get ready for her big adventure.

    They practiced what she would do at the airport. They packed her favorite stuffed bunny in her backpack. They talked about Kenny, the flight attendant who would take care of her the whole way.

    The night before the flight, Dad handed Erin a small box.

    Inside was a cell phone – her very first one.

    “This is for emergencies only,” Mom said seriously. “Keep it safe in your backpack. And when you get to Boston, you’ll give it to Granny and Grandpa. Can you do that?”

    Erin nodded, holding the phone carefully in both hands. She felt very grown-up and very responsible.

    Illustration: Multiple small vignettes showing preparation OR one larger scene:

    • Erin and parents role-playing at home (maybe using chairs as “airplane seats”)
    • Dad showing Erin how the phone works
    • Close-up of Erin’s hands carefully holding the phone in the box (this could be the focal point)
    • Her packed backpack with stuffed bunny peeking out

    Mood: Warm, cozy home setting. Evening/night time (since it’s “the night before”). Soft lamp light. Focus on the tender parent-child moments.

    PAGES 7-8: At the Airport

    The next morning, they woke up before the sun. The airport was big and busy, with people rushing everywhere pulling suitcases.

    “I’m hungry,” Erin said, holding tight to Dad’s hand.

    “Then let’s have a special breakfast,” Mom said with a smile.

    They found a restaurant with shiny red booths. Erin ordered her favorite: a hamburger platter with crispy fries and a vanilla milkshake so thick she had to work hard with her straw.

    “This is the best breakfast ever,” she said, licking milkshake from her upper lip.

    Mom and Dad smiled at each other. They wanted Erin to remember this day forever.

    Illustration: Bustling airport restaurant scene:

    • Erin in the red booth with her hamburger platter and thick vanilla milkshake (show the milkshake very prominently – maybe with whipped cream and a cherry!)
    • Mom and Dad on either side of her, coffee cups in front of them
    • Background: other travelers, airport windows showing planes outside, departure boards
    • Erin mid-bite or slurping her shake with pure joy on her face

    Details to include: Her backpack on the seat beside her, the busy airport energy but their booth feels like a cozy bubble.

    PAGES 9-10: Meeting the Team

    At the gate, Mom spoke quietly with a woman at the counter. The woman smiled down at Erin and made some notes on her computer.

    Then a tall pilot in a crisp uniform walked over. His smile was warm and kind.

    “You must be Erin,” he said. “I’m Captain Williams, and I’m going to be flying the plane today. You’re going to have a wonderful trip, I promise.”

    Erin felt a little less nervous.

    A moment later, a friendly man with a bright name tag came up to them.

    “Hi, Erin! I’m Kenny, and I’m going to be your flight attendant today. I’ll be with you the whole way to Boston. We’re going to take great care of you.”

    Kenny had kind eyes and an easy smile. Erin decided she liked him.

    Illustration: The gate area:

    • FOREGROUND: Captain Williams (Black man, tall, kind smile, pilot uniform with captain’s stripes) crouched or bent down to Erin’s eye level, shaking her hand or giving her a reassuring smile
    • MIDDLE: Kenny (Asian American man, flight attendant uniform, warm expression) standing nearby with clipboard or tablet
    • BACKGROUND: Mom talking to gate agent, the gate podium, other passengers, windows showing the airplane outside
    • Erin looking small but brave between these caring adults

    Key: Show the diversity naturally, show the care and professionalism, show Erin feeling safe.

    PAGES 11-12: Goodbye & Boarding

    It was time to say goodbye.

    Mom hugged her tight. “We love you so much. Have the best summer ever.”

    Dad’s hug lasted even longer. “Be brave, sweetheart. Call us tonight, okay?”

    Erin felt a lump in her throat, but she nodded. Kenny took her hand gently.

    “Ready?” he asked.

    Together, they walked down the long hallway to the airplane. Erin turned back one last time to wave. Mom and Dad were both waving, big smiles on their faces even though Mom’s eyes looked a little wet.

    On the plane, Kenny showed Erin to her seat – right by the window!

    The chair was big and comfortable. There was a screen on the back of the seat in front of her where she could watch movies.

    “This is going to be fun,” Erin whispered to herself.

    Illustration: Could be a two-part spread:

    LEFT PAGE: The goodbye moment:

    • Mom hugging Erin tight (maybe Erin’s feet are off the ground)
    • Dad waiting his turn, hand on Erin’s shoulder
    • Other passengers streaming past in soft focus
    • Erin’s face showing mixed emotions – sad to leave but trying to be brave

    RIGHT PAGE: Walking to the plane:

    • Kenny holding Erin’s hand gently, walking down the jetway
    • Erin looking back over her shoulder, waving
    • Small figures of Mom and Dad in the distance, waving back
    • The airplane visible through jetway windows

    Transition: Show the emotional shift from goodbye to adventure beginning.

    PAGES 13-14: Takeoff & Flying

    The engines roared to life. The plane rolled down the runway, faster and faster, and then – whoosh! – they lifted into the sky.

    Erin pressed her nose to the window and watched Los Angeles get smaller and smaller below.

    Once they were high in the air, Kenny came by with a tray.

    “Would you like something to drink?” he asked.

    “Could I have a Coca-Cola?” Erin asked shyly. Mom and Dad usually only let her have soda on special occasions.

    “Of course! This is definitely a special occasion.”

    Erin sipped her Coca-Cola and scrolled through the movie options. She picked an animated film about a princess and a dragon.

    After a while, she reached into her backpack. The phone was still there, safe and sound. She felt proud that she was taking such good care of it.

    Illustration: Inside the plane:

    • Erin in her window seat (SHOW the window prominently with LA getting smaller below)
    • The seat-back screen showing her animated movie
    • Kenny handing her the Coca-Cola on a tray (show the full can and a cup with ice)
    • Her backpack tucked under the seat in front of her
    • Maybe one or two other passengers visible but soft-focus
    • Her stuffed bunny buckled in beside her

    Mood: Cozy, safe, exciting. The plane interior should feel spacious and comfortable, not cramped. Erin’s face shows wonder and contentment.

    PAGES 15-16: The View

    Erin must have dozed off during the movie, because when she opened her eyes, Kenny was gently touching her shoulder.

    “Look out the window,” he said softly. “You don’t want to miss this.”

    Erin looked down and gasped.

    Below her was the Grand Canyon – enormous and orange and carved deep into the earth like a giant had dragged their fingers through rock.

    “Wow,” she breathed.

    As the plane flew on, she sawDeserts and mountains and winding rivers that looked like silver ribbons. She saw tiny towns and long highways and farmland in perfect squares of green and gold.

    America was so big! Erin had never imagined how big it really was.

    Kenny came back with a snack – pretzels and apple juice. “We’ll be landing in about an hour,” he told her.

    Erin’s heart started beating faster. Soon she would see Granny and Grandpa!

    Illustration: This should be SPECTACULAR – the visual highlight of the book:

    Option A – Full spread landscape:

    • Bird’s eye view FROM Erin’s perspective looking down
    • Show the patchwork of America: Grand Canyon in oranges and reds, desert in tans, green farmland in geometric squares, silver winding rivers, mountain ranges
    • Small inset or corner showing Erin’s face pressed to the window, eyes huge with wonder
    • Maybe Kenny pointing something out to her

    Option B – Split view:

    • LEFT: The view outside (Grand Canyon prominent)
    • RIGHT: Erin’s face at the window, Kenny beside her, both looking down

    Key: This should feel HUGE and awe-inspiring. Kids need to feel how big America is, how amazing the view is.

    PAGES 17-18: Landing in Boston

    The plane tilted downward. The captain’s voice came over the speaker.

    “Flight attendants, prepare for landing.”

    Erin looked out the window and saw buildings and highways getting closer. Her ears popped as the plane descended.

    Then – bump! – the wheels touched the runway. They were down!

    Erin gathered her backpack, making sure the phone was zipped safely inside. Kenny walked her off the plane, down a long hallway, and through a special door marked “Unaccompanied Minors.”

    “Are you ready?” Kenny asked, squeezing her hand.

    Erin nodded, suddenly feeling shy.

    Kenny pushed open the door.

    Illustration: Two moments:

    LEFT PAGE: Landing approach:

    • View from inside looking out window: Boston buildings, harbor, runways approaching
    • Erin’s hands gripping the armrests (excited, not scared)
    • Other passengers preparing to land

    RIGHT PAGE: Walking through the airport:

    • Kenny holding Erin’s hand, walking down the concourse
    • Her backpack on her back
    • Signs overhead: “Baggage Claim,” “Ground Transportation,” “Arrivals”
    • The special door marked “Unaccompanied Minors” ahead
    • Erin’s face showing anticipation – almost there!

    PAGES 19-20: Reunion!

    There they were!

    Granny and Grandpa were standing right by the door, holding a huge sign decorated with flowers and glitter that said: WELCOME ERIN!

    “There’s our girl!” Grandpa shouted.

    Erin ran to them. Granny scooped her up in a hug that smelled like perfume and cookies. Grandpa wrapped his arms around both of them.

    “You made it!” Granny said, her eyes shiny with happy tears. “You flew all the way across the country, all by yourself! We’re so proud of you!”

    Kenny waved goodbye. “Have a wonderful summer, Erin!”

    “Thank you, Kenny!” Erin called back.

    Hand in hand in hand, the three of them walked toward the exit, talking and laughing all at once.

    Illustration: THE BIG EMOTIONAL MOMENT – make this LARGE and joyful:

    • Granny and Grandpa (Irish American features, warm clothing, Grandpa maybe in a cardigan or cap, Granny with silver hair) holding their big “WELCOME ERIN!” sign (show the glitter and flowers!)
    • Erin RUNNING toward them or mid-hug (maybe her feet are off the ground as Granny lifts her)
    • Their faces full of pure joy and relief
    • Kenny in the background, waving, smiling (his job complete)
    • Other families reuniting in soft focus background
    • Arrival area: baggage carousels, other travelers, welcome signs

    Mood: PURE JOY. This is the emotional payoff. Big smiles, warm colors, movement, love.

    PAGES 21-22: That Night

    That evening, Granny made Erin’s favorite dinner – spaghetti with lots of parmesan cheese. They ate at the big wooden table that looked out toward the ocean.

    “Time to call your parents,” Grandpa said when the dishes were cleared.

    Erin carefully pulled out her phone – the one she’d kept safe the whole trip.

    She dialed the number all by herself. When Mom answered, Erin could hear the smile in her voice.

    “I made it!” Erin said. “I saw the Grand Canyon from the sky, and Kenny gave me Coca-Cola, and Captain Williams was so nice, and I didn’t lose my phone, and–”

    She told them everything, the words tumbling out in a happy rush.

    When she finally said goodbye, Granny kissed the top of her head.

    “You were so brave today,” she said.

    Erin smiled. She had been brave. And now she had a whole summer of adventures ahead.

    Through the window, she could hear the ocean waves and smell the salty air.

    Tomorrow, she and Granny and Grandpa would go to the beach.

    But tonight, she was exactly where she wanted to be.

    Illustration: Cozy evening scene at the beach house:

    • The three of them at the wooden dining table by a window
    • Outside the window: twilight sky, ocean visible, maybe a lighthouse in the distance
    • Empty spaghetti plates, parmesan shaker
    • Erin holding HER phone to her ear, smiling huge
    • Granny and Grandpa watching her with tender expressions
    • Warm lamplight inside
    • Maybe her stuffed bunny on a chair nearby
    • Small details: seashells on windowsill, beach house decor

    Final touch: Maybe a small closing image at the bottom – Erin’s backpack by the door, beach toys waiting for tomorrow, the ocean waves visible through the window.

    Mood: Safe, warm, loved, HOME. The adventure is complete, summer is beginning.

    THE END

    Erin’s Exceptional Airplane Adventure (Feb. 5, 2025)

    Trump Threatens Iran with “Obliteration” in Response to Assassination Plots

    Liz Webster
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    Trump Threatens Iran with “Obliteration” in Response to Assassination Plots

    Experts Question Legality

    Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump sparked global controversy this week after declaring he had left instructions for the U.S. to “obliterate” Iran if he were assassinated by operatives linked to Tehran. The remarks, made during the signing of an executive order reinstating his “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, raised alarms about the feasibility and legality of such a posthumous directive.  

    The Threat and Its Context  

    During a press event on February 4, Trump stated: “If they did that, they would be obliterated. That would be the end. I’ve left instructions. If they do it, they get obliterated. There won’t be anything left.” He framed this as a deterrent against alleged Iranian assassination plots, referencing a 2024 Justice Department indictment of an Iranian national, Farhad Shakeri, accused of planning to survei and kill Trump on behalf of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).  

    The threat comes amid heightened tensions following Trump’s 2020 drone strike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani, a revered figure in Iran. Tehran has repeatedly vowed retaliation, and U.S. intelligence agencies have tracked multiple alleged Iranian plots against Trump and former officials like Mike Pompeo and John Bolton.  

    Executive Order and “Maximum Pressure” Strategy  

    Trump simultaneously signed an executive order to intensify economic sanctions, aiming to reduce Iran’s oil exports to zero and enforce a “snapback” of U.N. sanctions.

    The order directs the Treasury and State Departments to target entities violating existing sanctions, including shipping and insurance sectors.

    While specifics of the order remain undisclosed, Trump claimed it would “neutralize Iran’s terrorist network” and prevent nuclear weapon development.

    Critics, however, note that his prior “maximum pressure” campaign during his first term failed to curb Iran’s nuclear advancements, instead accelerating uranium enrichment to near-weapons-grade levels.  

    Legal and Strategic Skepticism  

    Experts dismissed Trump’s “dead man’s switch” claim as legally unenforceable. Under U.S. law, a president cannot bind their successor to military action. If Trump were assassinated, Vice President J.D. Vance would assume office and retain sole authority over defense decisions.

    Analysts compared Trump’s remarks to the U.K.’s “letters of last resort”—secret nuclear strike instructions given to submarine commanders—but emphasized that no such mechanism exists in the U.S. system.  

    Iranian officials dismissed the threats as “propaganda,” while state media praised Trump’s cuts to U.S. foreign aid, claiming it weakened pro-democracy activists opposing the regime.

    Meanwhile, Iran’s currency plummeted to a record low of 850,000 rials per dollar, reflecting economic instability exacerbated by sanctions. 

    Domestic and International Reactions  

    • Mixed Responses: Social media reactions ranged from dark humor to conspiracy theories, with figures like Alex Jones suggesting the threat could be exploited by a “deep state” to frame Iran for a hypothetical Trump assassination.  
    • Diplomatic Signals: Despite tensions, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has cautiously left the door open for negotiations, while reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian urged moderation in domestic crackdowns.  
    • Regional Implications: Gulf allies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once staunch supporters of Trump’s sanctions, have recently pursued détente with Iran, complicating U.S. efforts to isolate Tehran.  

    Historical Precedent and Risks

    Trump’s rhetoric echoes his 2020 vow to respond to Iranian aggression with disproportionate force.However, military action—whether conventional or nuclear—risks escalating into a broader conflict. Israel, which has destroyed much of Iran’s air defenses, could see an opening for strikes on nuclear facilities, though experts warn this might destabilize the region further.  

    While Trump’s threats underscore his confrontational approach to Iran, their practical impact remains dubious. The administration’s renewed sanctions may deepen Iran’s economic crisis but are unlikely to halt its nuclear program without diplomatic engagement. As one Iranian analyst noted, “The world has seen this movie before—maximum pressure failed once. Why would it work now?”

    Trump Threatens Iran with “Obliteration” in Response to Assassination Plots (Feb. 5, 2025)

    Why New England, N.Y. Should Secede from U.S., Join Canada

    John Laing
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    Why New England, N.Y. Should Secede from U.S., Join Canada

    New York, N.Y. — As political and cultural divisions in the United States continue to deepen, an increasingly serious question arises: Should New England and New York break away from the U.S. and join Canada? While once a fringe idea, the notion of secession has gained traction in response to rising authoritarianism, economic instability, and social policies that conflict with the values of the Northeast.

    Political and Cultural Alignment with Canada

    New England and New York have long been among the most progressive regions in the U.S., embracing policies that prioritize healthcare access, climate action, and human rights.

    Meanwhile, under Donald Trump and a Republican-controlled Supreme Court, the U.S. has seen rollbacks on abortion rights, LGBTQ+ protections, and environmental regulations—policies that stand in stark contrast to those supported by the majority of New Englanders and New Yorkers.

    Canada, by comparison, offers universal healthcare, strong climate policies, and a government that better reflects the values of these northeastern states.

    Becoming part of the Canadian Federation could ensure political stability, protect civil liberties, and allow for better governance aligned with the region’s priorities.

    Economic and Trade Benefits

    New York and New England represent some of the most economically powerful areas in the U.S., with industries ranging from finance and biotech to education and tourism. By joining Canada, the region could benefit from closer trade ties with an economy that is already deeply interconnected. The Canadian dollar’s relative stability compared to a potentially volatile U.S. economy under continued conservative leadership further strengthens the case for integration.

    Border and Infrastructure Advantages

    Geographically, New England and New York already share extensive borders with Canada, making integration more feasible. Many residents travel frequently between the two countries, and cities like Boston and New York maintain deep economic and cultural ties with Canadian cities like Toronto and Montreal. A transition could be structured similarly to Quebec’s status, allowing for some regional autonomy while benefiting from national policies.

    A Peaceful and Rational Secession

    Unlike other secession movements in the U.S., a Northeast-Canada union would be based on shared values rather than ideological extremism. Such a move could be negotiated diplomatically, with economic and political agreements ensuring a smooth transition. The process would require referendums, legal agreements, and international recognition—but given the region’s alignment with Canada, it is a serious proposal worth considering.

    As the political divide in the U.S. grows wider, the idea of New York and New England joining Canada may no longer be a radical fantasy, but a practical solution for those seeking a government that truly represents their values.

    Why New England, New York Should Secede from U.S. to Join Canada (Feb. 1, 2025)

    #NortheastSecession #JoinCanada #NewEnglandExit #NewYorkToCanada #SecedeToCanada #BetterTogether #USPolitics #PoliticalDivide

    Luce Publications Launches Global, Inclusive Children’s Book Series

    Liz Webster
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    Luce Publications Launches Global, Inclusive Children’s Book Series

    By Liz Webster

    Liz Webster, Senior Editor

    New York, N.Y. — The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation announced the formal launch of Luce Publications, a children’s literature imprint devoted to empathy, inclusion, and global citizenship, with paperback distribution through Amazon beginning in 2025.

    A values-driven children’s literature initiative emphasizes empathy, global curiosity, and emotional literacy through accessible storytelling and distinctive illustration.

    The new imprint consolidates more than twenty children’s titles developed and published over several years through The Stewardship Report, now unified under a single editorial and visual philosophy. The books will be made available in affordable paperback editions priced under US$15, expanding access for families, schools, and nonprofit literacy programs.

    A Coherent Moral Universe for Young Readers

    Unlike standalone children’s titles, the Luce Publications catalog is designed as a cumulative worldview. Across stories addressing travel, disability, fear, kindness, bullying, and belonging, children encounter difference as normal and curiosity as instinctive. These narratives avoid didactic instruction, allowing values to be absorbed through repetition and familiarity.

     The “And It’s Okay” Series by Dr. William M. Bauer

    Among the cornerstone offerings is the “And It’s Okay” series by Dr. William M. Bauer [Luce Index™ score: 90/100], a licensed clinical counselor and former educator whose work centers on children and adults with disabilities. Born with a severe hearing impairment, Bauer has devoted his career to helping children understand physical, emotional, and social differences without stigma.

    The series addresses a wide range of conditions and life circumstances, including autism, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, epilepsy, juvenile diabetes, depression, learning disabilities, foster care, adoption, family incarceration, immigration status, and parental divorce. Educators report that the books function as conversation starters, enabling children to ask questions, express empathy, and normalize difference within classroom settings.

    Jim Luce’s Global and Inclusive Storytelling

    The imprint also features an extensive body of work by Jim Luce [Luce Index™ score: 90/100], drawing on his experiences as the founder of Orphans International Worldwide and as a parent to adopted and foster children from multiple regions. His stories include Donny the Big, Bad Bully, Juan Carlos the Maid’s Son — and President, Make Way for Shih Tzu!, and The Special World of Mathew James.

    Central to the catalog is the Clover, the Magic Flying Dog travel series, in which young protagonists explore cultural landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Eiffel Tower, Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, and the Great Wall of China. These stories frame the world as interconnected and personal, fostering global awareness without exoticism or moralizing.

    A Distinctive Visual Language

    Luce Publications has developed a recognizable illustration style characterized by soft watercolor realism, gentle linework, and composite characters rather than identifiable likenesses. Each book includes a small red heart near the page number as a unifying visual motif, and many titles feature a subtle shih tzu “easter egg,” reinforcing continuity across the catalog.

    Teaching Responsibility Through Humor

    Among the catalog’s newest additions is a social-emotional learning story that tackles civic responsibility with levity and relatability. Set against the backdrop of New York City sidewalks, the narrative follows a young protagonist who discovers that even small acts of negligence—leaving trash, ignoring litter, overlooking a neighbor’s dropped groceries—ripple outward in visible ways.

    When neighbors begin reacting with mounting frustration, the child organizes a small-scale “clean-up crew” with friends, transforming what could have been a lecture into a kid-led initiative. The story emphasizes responsible decision-making and social awareness without moralizing, instead allowing humor and natural consequences to drive the lesson home.

    The book reinforces a core tenet of SEL: understanding that personal choices affect the wider community, and that taking responsibility doesn’t require perfection—just awareness and willingness to act. By grounding abstract concepts like “civic-mindedness” in the concrete details of city life, the story makes stewardship tangible for young readers.

    Institutional and Philanthropic Reach

    By offering a cohesive series rather than isolated titles, the imprint positions itself as a scalable literacy and social-emotional learning initiative. Educators, librarians, and nonprofit partners can integrate the books into curricula, counseling environments, and community programs with confidence and minimal vetting.

    “A single children’s book can be charming,” said Senior Editor Liz Webster. “A sustained body of work becomes cultural influence. These books quietly shape how children understand fear, kindness, and difference at the age when values take root.”

    Looking Ahead

    With paperback distribution expanding in 2025, Luce Publications plans continued development of its existing series alongside new titles aligned with its stewardship-driven mission. Translation partnerships and institutional sponsorships are under active consideration.

    #LucePublications #ChildrensBooks #GlobalCitizenship #InclusiveEducation #Stewardship

    TAGS: Luce Publications, Children’s Literature, Inclusive Education,
    Global Citizenship, Stewardship Report, Empathy in Education

     

    Jewish Women Respond to Trump Order on Antisemitism

    Liz Webster
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    Jewish Women Respond to Trump Order on Antisemitism

    National Council of Jewish Women Statement in Response
    to the Trump Administration’s Executive Order on Antisemitism

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s Executive Order, “Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism,” was released by National Council of Jewish Women CEO Sheila Katz:

    “Jews in America are living in fear — afraid in their schools, their synagogues, and even walking down the street. Parents hesitate to send their children to campus, students face harassment simply for being Jewish, and Jewish women are increasingly being sexually harassed and threatened with assault. No one should have to live this way.

    “National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) appreciates the Trump administration’s willingness to address antisemitism by requiring universities and government agencies to examine and use all legal tools available to protect Jewish students and the Jewish community.

    “At the same time, we know that the fight against antisemitism cannot come at the expense of fundamental rights. As the government implements this approach, we emphasize the urgent need to uphold free expression and peaceful protest while ensuring Jewish students are truly safe on campus. Our nation must foster welcoming campus environments for all — regardless of religion, gender, political affiliation, and national origin.

    “We are deeply alarmed by the explicit targeting of students on foreign visas, whom the executive order refers to as “alien students,” and the emphasis on their deportation. This xenophobic rhetoric echoes historical patterns of discrimination that Jews have faced for centuries, raising profound concerns for us.

    “Antisemitism exists in many forms and permeates society. Policies designed to protect Jewish communities should address antisemitism in all of its manifestations and from all corners of society. Antisemitism should never be weaponized.

    “NCJW remains steadfast in our advocacy for meaningful, lasting efforts to combat antisemitism.

    This includes building bridges across communities, holding universities and institutions accountable when they fail to act, and strengthening education about Jewish history, identity, and contributions. Jewish women, children, and families deserve a future where they can live without fear — and we will not stop working toward that future.

    ###

    National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is the oldest Jewish feminist civil rights organization working for equity and justice for women, children, and families in the United States and Israel. Through the efforts of our 225,000 grassroots advocates and 49 local sections, NCJW combines education, direct service, and advocacy to affect lasting social change at the local, state, and national levels. We approach our work through the intersections of gender, economic, and racial justice to center those most impacted in a uniquely Jewish way. Learn more at NCJW.org, and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

    ‘High Threat’ Undocumented Migrants Sent to Guantánamo

    Voice of America
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    ‘High Threat’ Undocumented Migrants Sent to Guantánamo

    Washington, D.C. — A small number of migrants were transferred from Texas to a detention facility in Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, on Tuesday via U.S. military aircraft, U.S. defense officials told VOA.

    Fewer than 20 migrants, which the administration has deemed to be “high threat,” are being transported on the first C-17 flight from Fort Bliss, one defense official said, speaking to VOA on background, a method often used by U.S. officials to remain anonymous, before the flight landed in Cuba.

    U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Tuesday posted photos on X of some of the migrants as they prepared to board the military cargo plane, calling them “the worst of the worst,” and warning the effort to deport them is just getting started.

    The Department of Homeland Security later said all of the migrants on the military flight from Texas to Guantánamo Bay were members of Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan street gang with transnational reach. Officials did not say when or how they were first taken into custody.

    The White House has announced plans to designate Tren de Aragua as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.

    Since President Donald Trump‘s executive order last month, the Pentagon has deployed 300 Marines to Guantanamo to expand the facilities to support holding operations for undocumented immigrants. According to media reports, they have set up tents to house the migrants inside a fenced area at a separate part of the naval base. Those facilities are not yet ready for migrants, according to Fox News.

    “The number of service members will continue to fluctuate as additional forces are tasked to deploy and will be scaled, based on the requirements of the Department of Homeland Security, which is the lead federal agency,” U.S. Southern Command, which overseas operations in South America, Central America and the Caribbean, announced in a statement on Monday.

    The migrants who arrived Tuesday will be held at the U.S. detention facility, according to a U.S. official who spoke on background. The facility is known mostly for housing military prisoners and terror suspects, including those involved in the September 11, 2001, attacks and members of the Taliban.

    “If you’re a violent gang banger, and you’ve been taken out of our country, and we’re waiting to bring you to your country, we’re going to put you in a cell box built for al-Qaida,” Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth told Fox News this week.

    In his executive order last month, Trump instructed the departments of Defense and Homeland Security to prepare the U.S. naval base to hold up to 30,000 migrants.

    “Some of them are so bad we don’t even trust the countries to hold them because we don’t want them coming back. So, we’re going to send them out to Guantanamo,” Trump said.

    In January 2002, a Navy petty officer took pictures from Camp X-Ray of the first prisoners to arrive at Guantánamo. Photo by Petty Officer 1st class Shane T. McCoy/U.S. Navy.

    Closing Guantanamo

    Democratic administrations under Barack Obama and Joe Biden had sought to close the detention camp, which was built by the George W. Bush administration in 2002 following the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan that began shortly after the 9/11 attacks of 2001.

    Sue Hendrickson, president and C.E.O. of Human Rights First, said in a statement that sending migrants to Guantanamo would create a human rights catastrophe.

    “The Trump administration may find the symbolism of sending migrants to Guantanamo darkly appealing; its practical result would be more injustice, waste and self-inflicted loss of credibility,” Hendrickson said.

    At its height during the Global War on Terror, the detention facility held about 680 prisoners. As of January 6, there were just 15 detainees at the facility, according to the Pentagon.

    Before being used to detain terror suspects, the U.S. naval facility was also used to house migrants from Cuba and Haiti in the early 1990s.

    ‘High Threat’ Undocumented Migrants Sent to Guantanamo (Feb. 4, 2025)

    Macron Asks U.N. to Consider Peacekeeping Force for Haiti

    Voice of America
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    0
    Macron Asks U.N. to Consider Peacekeeping Force for Haiti

    New York, N.Y. French President Emmanuel Macron has asked the United Nations to consider sending a peacekeeping force to Haiti. The suggestion was made in a letter Macron sent to the U.N. after meeting with Leslie Voltaire, president of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council at the Elysee Palace in Paris.

    Macron Asks U.N. to Consider Peacekeeping Force for Haiti (Feb. 4, 2025)

    Haiti: ‘I Was Deported to a Country I Never Lived In’

    United Nations
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    0
    Haiti: ‘I Was Deported to a Country I Never Lived In’

    Members of a Haitian family return from the Dominican Republic carrying the few possessions they have.

    Port-au-Prince, Haiti — Migrants who have been deported from the Dominican Republic to Haiti – the two Caribbean nations that share the island of Hispaniola – have been talking to the United Nations about the challenges of returning to a crisis-ridden country they barely know.

    Mireille

    Pregnant and exhausted and clutching a small bag with all that was left of her belongings, Mireille* stood under the relentless Haitian sun, not sure what to do next.

    She had just been deported from the Dominican Republic, a country she had called home since she was eight years old.

    Over the years she has seen Haiti, the land of her birth, overcome by gang violence as well as humanitarian, political and economic crises.

    Mireille gazes through the protective bars at the GARR facility, reflecting on her journey back to Haiti.
    Mireille gazes through the protective bars at the GARR facility, reflecting on her journey back to Haiti. © IOM/Antoine Lemonnier.

    “I was deported to a country I never lived in,” she said, filled with a mix of anger and despair.

    The Dominican Republic had been her home for nearly three decades. It was where she built her life, forged relationships and created memories. But overnight, she became an outsider, stripped of her dignity and forced to return to a country she didn’t know.

    Mireille’s ordeal began in the early hours of the morning, five days before she crossed the border into Haiti when she was taken to a crowded and uncomfortable detention center, where she stayed for several days before being transported to the border.

    A deportation truck arrives at the Belladère border crossing between the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
    A deportation truck arrives at the Belladère border crossing between the Dominican Republic and Haiti. © IOM/Antoine Lemonnier.

    “I arrived in Haiti feeling scared and unsure of what to do,” Mireille said. “I barely know this country, and I’m struggling to figure out where to start. It’s disorienting and difficult.”

    Guerson and Roselène

    Guerson and Roselène* had spent over a decade in the Dominican Republic, building their lives in Loma de Cabrera, not far from the border with Haiti.

    Guerson worked as a mechanic at a small garage fixing cars, motorbikes, and agricultural equipment. His hands, often smeared with grease, were a source of pride. “People trusted me with their vehicles,” he said. “It was hard work, but I could provide for my family.”

    Roselène, meanwhile, managed their modest home. She prepared meals and supplemented the family income by selling patés and fried plantains to neighbors.

    A simple life

    Their daily life was simple but stable. Their son Kenson attended a local preschool, and Roselène spoke of her pride seeing him learn to write his name.

    Then the Dominican authorities arrived. “My children didn’t understand,” said Guerson. “Kenson asked if we were going on a trip. I didn’t know how to answer him.”

    The family was herded onto a truck “I held my baby so tightly. I was afraid we wouldn’t survive the journey,” Guerson recalled.

    Crossing the border into Haiti felt like stepping into chaos.

    The town of Ouanaminthe, already struggling with a sharp increase in deportations, lacked the capacity to respond to the growing crisis.

    Families stood on dusty roads, clutching bags and children, unsure of where to go.

    “We stood there for hours, lost,” Roselène said. “The children were hungry. I didn’t know how to comfort them because I had nothing left to give.”

    Crisis country

    Mireille, Guerson and Roselène are just three of the more than 200,000 Haitians who were forcibly repatriated to their homeland in 2024, some 97 per cent of them from the Dominican Republic.

    Nearly 15,000 people were returned from across the border in the first two weeks of January alone.

    They returned to a country in crisis.

    Guerson (left) and Roselène are beginning a new life in Haiti.
    Guerson (left) and Roselène are beginning a new life in Haiti. © IOM/Antoine Lemonnier.

    Armed groups now control large parts of the country, including key roads in and out of the capital, Port-au-Prince.

    The years of violence have displaced over 700,000 people, forcing families into precarious shelters including abandoned schools and churches. In these places, access to food, water and healthcare is limited, leaving many extremely vulnerable.

    Nearly 5.5 million people, half of Haiti’s population, require humanitarian aid to survive.

    Safety net across the border

    Fortunately, when migrants cross over the border into Haiti, they are not alone.

    The U.N.’s International Organization for Migration (IOM) works with the Support Group for the Repatriated and Refugees (Groupe d’Appui aux Rapatriés et Réfugiés, GARR) to ensure the returnees have access to a range of services to meet their immediate needs, including psychosocial support, health referrals, for example pre-natal care, and the distribution of basic items such as clothing, hygiene products, and toiletries.

    Temporary accommodation is also available for the most vulnerable, so they can rest and take stock before moving forward with their lives.

    IOM staff prepare to assist deported Haitians as they re-enter their home country.
    IOM staff prepare to assist deported Haitians as they re-enter their home country. © IOM/Antoine Lemonnier.

    For unaccompanied children, family reunifications are organised and in cases of gender-based violence, survivors are provided with specialised care.

    IOM also works with the Office National de la Migration (ONM), Haiti’s government agency for migration.

    ONM leads the registration process, ensuring that each individual is accounted for and works with IOM to assess vulnerabilities and provide individual assistance.

    The future remains unclear for many returnees in a country where the vast majority of people struggle to get by on a daily basis.

    Guerson and Roselène remain somewhat hopeful that they will return to the Dominican Republic someday. “In the meantime, I will find a way to work,” Guerson said softly, his words conveying uncertainty. “I do this for my children.”

    *Names have been changed for their safety

    Haiti: ‘I Was Deported to a Country I Never Lived In’ (Feb. 3, 2025)

    National Black History Month: Celebrating Heritage, Contributions

    Liz Webster
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    National Black History Month: Celebrating Heritage, Contributions

    Monthly Feature: February

    New York, N.Y. — Every February, the United States comes alive with vibrant celebrations, educational events, and heartfelt tributes during National Black History Month.

    This annual observance, which began as a week-long event in 1926, has grown into a month dedicated to honoring the rich heritage, remarkable achievements, and enduring resilience of African Americans. It’s a time to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and inspire a future where equality and recognition flourish.

    Begun in 1926, this month is dedicated to honoring the rich heritage,
    remarkable achievements, and enduring resilience of African Americans

    National Black History Month traces its roots to historian Carter G. Woodson, who launched “Negro History Week” nearly a century ago. Woodson chose February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two towering figures in the fight for freedom and justice.

    In 1976, this week expanded into a month-long celebration, officially recognized by the U.S. government, thanks to the tireless advocacy of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), which Woodson founded. Today, it’s a cornerstone of cultural awareness, embraced by schools, communities, and leaders nationwide.

    Why does it matter?

    National Black History Month shines a spotlight on the contributions of African Americans often overlooked in mainstream narratives.

    It’s a chance to honor inventors like Garrett Morgan, who created the traffic light, and cultural icons like Maya Angelou, whose words continue to inspire.

    It’s also a reminder of the struggles—slavery, segregation, and systemic inequality—that African Americans have overcome, fostering a deeper understanding of their pivotal role in shaping the nation.

    In 2025, with the theme “African Americans and the Arts,” the focus is on creativity, from jazz legends to contemporary filmmakers, showcasing the boundless impact of Black talent.

    The importance of this month resonates far beyond history lessons.

    It’s a call to action for unity and progress. Schools host events, museums unveil exhibits, and communities gather to celebrate. It’s a time when people of all backgrounds can learn, appreciate, and amplify Black voices. According to a recent survey by the National Education Association (NEA), 78% of educators say teaching Black history fosters empathy and critical thinking in students—skills vital for a harmonious society.

    Famous figures have long championed this celebration.

    Former President Barack Obama, during his tenure, issued annual proclamations calling Black History Month a time to “celebrate the countless contributions of African Americans.”

    Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul and philanthropist, has consistently supported events tied to the month, once saying, “Understanding our history is key to unlocking our potential.”

    Musical icon Stevie Wonder has performed at commemorative concerts, while athletes like Serena Williams use their platforms to highlight its significance, often sharing messages of pride and empowerment on social media.

    Hollywood has also joined the chorus.

    Actor Chadwick Boseman, before his passing in 2020, spoke passionately about the need to recognize Black history year-round, but especially in February.

    Modern stars like Zendaya and John Legend continue that legacy, attending galas or posting tributes that reach millions.

    Even global leaders, such as Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have acknowledged the month, reflecting its international influence as Canada and the U.K. host their own versions in February and October, respectively.

    This year’s celebrations promise to be particularly uplifting.

    Cities like Atlanta and Washington, D.C., are planning art festivals, while virtual events ensure accessibility for all.

    Libraries are expanding collections of Black-authored books, and organizations like the NAACP are hosting workshops to engage younger generations.

    It’s a collective effort to ensure the stories of trailblazers—past and present—aren’t just remembered, but celebrated with joy and gratitude.

    National Black History Month isn’t just a look back; it’s a leap forward.

    It inspires future leaders, artists, and innovators by showing what’s possible when talent meets opportunity.

    As Woodson once said, “If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition.” This February, Americans are invited to join the festivities, learn something new, and honor a legacy that continues to shape a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.


    Join the celebration this February!

    Explore African American history, attend local events, read works by Black authors, or share stories of inspiring figures on social media with #BlackHistoryMonth.

    Let’s honor the past and amplify Black voices together—every step you take helps build a more inclusive future!”

    #BlackHistoryMonth #CelebrateBlackExcellence #AfricanAmericanHeritage

    Tags: Black History, African American Culture,
    Heritage Celebration, Education

    New York Highlights Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

    Liz Webster
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    New York Highlights Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

    Monthly Feature: February

    Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month Shines Spotlight on Healthy Relationships in New York

    One in three teens experiencing some form of dating abuse before age 18

    New York, N.Y. — As April unfolds, communities across New York and the nation turn their attention to Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about the pervasive issue of dating violence among adolescents.

    Observed annually in February at the national level, New York extends its focus into April to amplify efforts, educate young people, and foster healthier relationships. With one in three teens experiencing some form of dating abuse before age 18, this initiative underscores the urgency of prevention and support.

    Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, established through advocacy efforts and reinforced by the Violence Against Women Act, aims to break the cycle of abuse by equipping teens with knowledge and resources.

    In New York, the Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) leads the charge, offering tools like the Healthy Relationship Quiz and campaigns such as “Choose Your Own Adventure: Spot the Flags.” These initiatives help teens identify red flags—such as controlling behavior or emotional manipulation—and green flags, like mutual respect and trust, in their relationships.

    Dating violence encompasses physical, emotional, sexual, or digital abuse within a romantic relationship.

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it affects millions of U.S. teens, with girls, transgender, and gender-nonconforming youth at higher risk. Beyond immediate harm, the long-term effects can include depression, substance abuse, and patterns of violence in future relationships.

    In New York, where every county has a domestic violence program, resources are readily available, yet awareness remains critical to ensuring teens know where to turn.

    What should New Yorkers be aware of this month?

    The signs of abuse aren’t always obvious. Physical violence, like hitting or pushing, is clear, but emotional abuse—constant criticism, isolation from friends, or threats—can be subtler.

    Digital abuse, such as monitoring a partner’s phone or sharing private images without consent, has surged with technology’s role in teen lives.

    OPDV emphasizes that one supportive adult can make a difference, offering a lifeline to a teen hesitant to speak out.

    For teens navigating these challenges, experts share practical advice.

    “Trust your instincts,” says Dr. Maria Gonzalez, a counselor with the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline. “If something feels off, talk to someone you trust—a friend, parent, or teacher.”

    Setting boundaries, communicating openly, and recognizing when to leave a relationship are key skills. Teens are also encouraged to reach out to the hotline at 800-942-6906 or text 844-997-2121 for confidential support.

    The importance of TDVAM lies in its dual focus: prevention and empowerment.

    Healthy relationships built on respect and equality benefit not just individuals but entire communities. Governor Kathy Hochul, in a recent proclamation, highlighted the state’s commitment to ending teen dating violence, noting that education and early intervention can stop abuse before it escalates.

    With 10% of adolescents reporting physical violence from a partner annually, according to youth.gov, the stakes are high. In New York, programs like the One Love initiative empower teens to spot unhealthy dynamics and take action.

    Why does this matter now?

    The rise of technology-facilitated abuse—cyberstalking or coercive control via social media—adds urgency. Teens spend hours online, making them vulnerable to new forms of harm.

    TDVAM’s 2025 theme, “Respect That,” chosen by the love is respect Youth Council, emphasizes dignity and autonomy in relationships, resonating with New York’s diverse youth population.

    The call to action is clear: get involved.

    Wear orange on February 11—extended into April in New York—to show solidarity, a tradition rooted in the state’s Wear Orange Day. Share resources on social media with hashtags like #TDVAM2025 and #RespectThatNY.

    Parents, educators, and peers can start conversations about consent and boundaries.

    Visit opdv.ny.gov for toolkits, or join events like OPDV’s upcoming discussion on masculinity and allyship at John Jay College. Every step counts toward safer futures.

    In a state as vibrant as New York, TDVAM is more than a month—it’s a movement.

    By raising awareness, offering support, and encouraging action, it aims to ensure every teen knows they deserve respect, safety, and love.

    New York Highlights Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (Feb. 2, 2025)

    Talk to a Teen Today. Encourage adults—parents, teachers, or mentors—to start a conversation with a teen about healthy relationships, consent, and recognizing red flags. This fosters open dialogue and builds trust.

    Wear Orange and Share. Urge people to wear orange on April 11 (New York’s extended Wear Orange Day) and post on social media with hashtags like #TDVAM2025 or #RespectThatNY, spreading awareness and resources.

    Learn the Signs, Save a Life. Prompt individuals to visit opdv.ny.gov or loveisrespect.org to educate themselves on the signs of dating violence and share that knowledge with others, emphasizing early intervention.

    Support the Hotline. Inspire people to share or use the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline (800-942-6906 or text 844-997-2121), ensuring teens know help is available 24/7.

    #TDVAM2025, #RespectThatNY, #TeenSafety,
    #HealthyRelationships, #NYAgainstAbuse

    Tags: Teen Dating Violence, Awareness Month, New York,
    Healthy Relationships, Support, Prevention, Education

    Empowering Indigenous Communities in Colombia

    Liz Webster
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    Empowering Indigenous Communities in Colombia

    A Vision for Education and Cultural Preservation

    New York, N.Y. — In the lush plains of Colombia’s Meta department, a transformative project is underway to support indigenous communities striving to preserve their cultural heritage while securing access to essential education and infrastructure. Spearheaded by the Acacías Monarca and Villavicencio Monarca Lions Clubs, this initiative focuses on building educational and cultural facilities for three indigenous groups—the Embera Doquera, Nasa, and Pijao communities—each with unique histories, traditions, and aspirations.

    The project has drawn international support, including from the New York-based James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation, known for its focus on global youth leadership and cultural preservation. The foundation’s president, Jim Luce, expressed his organization’s commitment to the project, stating, “We are enthusiastic about supporting indigenous Colombians maintain their own community and culture.”

    The initiative comes at a critical time for indigenous communities in Colombia, many of whom have faced decades of displacement and marginalization. After extensive assessments and consultations with local leaders, the Lions Clubs have proposed the construction of infrastructure tailored to the needs of each community.

    For the Embera Doquera in Lejanías, a preschool and primary school will serve as vital spaces to educate their children and preserve their language and traditions. In Mesetas, the Nasa community plans to establish a “Maloka of Knowledge,” a cultural and commercial center designed to promote tourism and economic self-sufficiency. Meanwhile, the Pijao community near Puerto López envisions a multi-purpose “Bohío,” combining educational, cultural, and commercial functions to revitalize their heritage and support local livelihoods.

    Following careful evaluation, the Pijao community has been prioritized for the first phase of implementation due to its strategic location and accessibility.

    “This project is not only about infrastructure,” said Alex and Marco, leaders of the Lions Clubs involved. “It’s about creating opportunities for these communities to flourish while preserving the traditions that make them unique.”

    Jim Luce praised the Lions Club members’ dedication, saying, “We commend Alex and Marco and the Lions Club for their devotion to bring this concept to fruition.”

    The project also aligns with Colombia’s broader efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in regions deeply affected by decades of armed conflict. By investing in education and cultural preservation, the initiative seeks to empower indigenous communities to rebuild their lives and contribute to the nation’s diverse cultural tapestry.

    With plans now moving into the design and planning phase, the collaboration between local leaders, global organizations, and the Lions Clubs is setting an inspiring example of how community-driven initiatives can foster resilience and cultural pride.

    For the Pijao, Nasa, and Embera Doquera, this project represents more than just physical structures—it is a beacon of hope for a sustainable and culturally rich future.

    I Have Tourette’s Syndrome – And It’s Okay!

    Bill Bauer
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    I Have Tourette’s Syndrome – <em>And It’s Okay!</em>

    By Dr. Bill Bauer

    My name is Stephen, and I have something called Tourette’s.
    Me llamo Stephen, y tengo algo que se llama Tourette.

    Illustration 1 note: Stephen smiling gently, welcoming the reader.

    Tourette’s is part of my everyday life.
    El Tourette es parte de mi vida diaria.

    Illustration 2 note: Stephen on the farm in a calm, familiar setting.

    Sometimes my body makes movements or sounds that I can’t control.
    A veces mi cuerpo hace movimientos o sonidos que no puedo controlar.

    Illustration 3 note: Subtle tic depiction (blinking, small movement), respectful and gentle.

    SPREAD 4 — NAMING THE EXPERIENCE

    English:
    These movements and sounds are called tics.

    Spanish:
    Estos movimientos y sonidos se llaman tics.

    Illustration note:
    Neutral, explanatory moment — no embarrassment.

    SPREAD 5 — CLEARING UP MISUNDERSTANDINGS

    English:
    People might think I can stop them, but I can’t.

    Spanish:
    Algunas personas piensan que puedo detenerlos, pero no puedo.

    Illustration note:
    Stephen with other kids nearby, no teasing, just curiosity.

    SPREAD 6 — INSIDE STEPHEN

    English:
    Trying to stop my tics can make me feel more nervous.

    Spanish:
    Tratar de detener mis tics puede hacerme sentir más nervioso.

    Illustration note:
    Quiet, reflective image — Stephen alone but safe.

    SPREAD 7 — FRIENDSHIP & ACCEPTANCE

    English:
    My friends accept me for who I am.

    Spanish:
    Mis amigos me aceptan tal como soy.

    Illustration note:
    Stephen playing with friends — bikes, hopscotch, shared joy.

    SPREAD 8 — FAMILY & RESPONSIBILITY

    English:
    I live on a farm and help my family with chores.

    Spanish:
    Vivo en una finca y ayudo a mi familia con los oficios.

    Illustration note:
    Feeding chickens, working together — capable, included.

    SPREAD 9 — ENERGY & REST

    English:
    Some days are busy, and by the end of the day, I feel very tired.

    Spanish:
    Algunos días son muy ocupados, y al final del día me siento muy cansado.

    Illustration note:
    Stephen sleepy in a chair — relatable, gentle humor.

    SPREAD 10 — DREAMS FOR THE FUTURE

    English:
    When I grow up, I have dreams for my future.

    Spanish:
    Cuando sea grande, tengo sueños para mi futuro.

    Illustration note:
    Dreamlike image — Army or dentist imagery can appear softly.

    SPREAD 11 — THE MESSAGE

    English:
    You don’t have to fix me.

    Spanish:
    No tienes que arreglarme.

    Illustration note:
    Strong but calm image — Stephen standing comfortably.

    SPREAD 12 — THE RESOLUTION

    English:
    I have Tourette’s — and it’s okay.

    Spanish:
    Tengo Tourette — y está bien.

    Illustration note:
    Warm, confident closure. This is the only ending.

    #TouretteSyndrome #Neurodiversity #DisabilityInclusion #ChildrensBooks #InclusiveEducation #StewardshipReport #MentalHealthAwareness #KidsBooks #EducacionInclusiva #Neurodiversidad

    TAGS: Tourette’s syndrome, neurodiversity, children’s books, disability inclusion, inclusive education,
    mental health awareness, Stewardship Report, educación inclusiva, neurodiversidad, libros infantiles

    Un libro infantil de The Stewardship Report que ayuda a niños y niñas a comprender el
    síndrome de Tourette con empatía, inclusión y aceptación. Ideal para familias y educadores.

     

    Juan Carlos the Maid’s Son — and President

    Jim Luce
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    <em>Juan Carlos the Maid’s Son — and President</em>

    Juan Carlos, el hijo de la empleada doméstica — y presidente

    By Jim Luce

    High in a city tucked into the Andes Mountains, there stood a very big house.
    En lo alto, en una ciudad escondida entre las montañas
    de los Andes, había una casa muy grande.

    In that house lived a rich family—and in a
    small room behind it lived a maid and her little son.
    En esa casa vivía una familia rica—y en un cuartito detrás
    de ella vivían una empleada doméstica y su pequeño hijo.

    The little boy’s name was Juan Carlos. His mamá called him ‘Juancho.‘
    El niño se llamaba Juan Carlos. Su mamá lo llamaba Juancho.

    Juancho loved the courtyard. He loved the sun. He loved his big, round ball.
    A Juancho le encantaba el patio. Le encantaba el sol.
    Le encantaba su pelota grande y redonda.

    Juancho was still wearing diapers—but he was just learning how to walk.
    Juancho todavía usaba pañales—pero estaba aprendiendo a caminar.

    One day his mamá said, “Juancho, you must stay here with me.”
    Un día su mamá le dijo: —Juancho, debes quedarte aquí conmigo.

    “You may not go upstairs where the rich family lives.”
    —No puedes subir las escaleras donde vive la familia rica.

    Juancho did not understand why. He only knew he liked to explore.
    Juancho no entendía por qué. Solo sabía que le gustaba explorar.

    One quiet day, Juancho climbed the stairs.
    Then he climbed another set of stairs.
    Un día tranquilo, Juancho subió las escaleras.
    Luego subió otro tramo más.

    At the top, he reached the rooftop.
    Arriba, llegó a la azotea.

    From there, Juancho could see mountains and trees and the whole wide world.
    Desde allí, Juancho podía ver montañas, árboles y todo el mundo a su alrededor.

    Juancho smiled. He felt happy.
    Juancho sonrió. Se sentía feliz.

    But his mamá could not find him.
    Pero su mamá no podía encontrarlo.

    The rich family helped look for him—and soon they found him on the rooftop.
    La familia rica ayudó a buscarlo—y pronto lo encontraron en la azotea.

    “You must not come up here again,” one man said firmly.
    —No debes volver a subir aquí —dijo un hombre con firmeza.

    Juancho grew up.
    Juancho creció.

    He went to school. He loved learning. He asked many questions.
    Fue a la escuela. Le encantaba aprender. Hacía muchas preguntas.

    Later, he went to the university and studied law.
    Más tarde, fue a la universidad y estudió derecho.

    He wondered why some people had so much—
    and others were told to stay behind.
    Se preguntaba por qué algunas personas tenían tanto—
    y a otras se les decía que se quedaran atrás.

    Juan Carlos became a mayor. Then one day, he became president.
    Juan Carlos se convirtió en alcalde. Y un día, se convirtió en presidente.

    As president, Juan Carlos said,
    “There should be no walls between people.”
    Como presidente, Juan Carlos dijo:
    —No debería haber muros entre las personas.

    “No child should be told where they do or do not belong.”
    —A ningún niño se le debería decir dónde pertenece o dónde no.

    His mamá hugged him and said, “Juancho, I am so proud of you.”
    Su mamá lo abrazó y le dijo: —Juancho, estoy muy orgullosa de ti.

    And Juan Carlos hugged her back.
    Y Juan Carlos la abrazó también.

    ✍️ Author’s Note

    This story is for every child who wonders why doors are closed, and for every adult who believes they don’t have to be.
    Esta historia es para cada niño que se pregunta por qué algunas puertas están cerradas, y para cada adulto que cree que no tienen que estarlo.

    ✍️ Editor’s Note

    In college, the author lived with a host family in Bogota, Colombia that had a maid. Jim was enchanted with the maid’s toddler as neither of them spoke Spanish well and could simply be together, playing in the back yard. Jim was quietly taken aside by the family and told that it was inappropriate to play with a maid’s son as class structure must be maintained or society would collapse.

    #ChildrensBooks #PictureBooks #SocialJusticeForKids #LatinAmericanStories
    #InclusiveStories #Belonging #ClassAndEquity #StewardshipReport #JimLuce

    TAGS: children’s books, picture books, social justice for children, Stewardship Report,
    class inequality, Latin American stories, inclusive education, belonging, equity, Jim Luce

    Hegseth Moves Against Retired General Milley, Stripping Security Detail

    Liz Webster
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    Hegseth Moves Against Retired General Milley, Stripping Security Detail

    Pete Hegseth Moves Against Retired General Mark Milley,
    Stripping Security Detail and Ordering Investigation

    Washington, D.C. — In one of his first major acts since taking office, new Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has moved against retired General Mark A. Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, revoking his security detail and ordering an inspector general investigation into his conduct. The decision, confirmed by a senior defense official, signals a sharp shift in the Pentagon’s leadership under the new administration.

    Milley, who served as the nation’s top military officer from 2019 to 2023, frequently found himself at odds with President Donald J. Trump, particularly in the aftermath of the 2020 election and the January 6 attack on the Capitol. His tenure was marked by tensions with Trump allies, especially over his public statements regarding civilian control of the military and his warnings against political interference in military affairs.

    The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations, said that Milley’s security detail—provided due to concerns over threats against him—would be withdrawn immediately. The official also confirmed that the Department of Defense’s inspector general has been tasked with reviewing Milley’s actions during and after his tenure. While the precise focus of the investigation remains unclear, it follows years of criticism from Trump and his allies, who have accused Milley of overstepping his authority.

    A Politicized Reckoning

    The move comes amid broader efforts by the new administration to reshape the Pentagon and reassert control over military leadership. Hegseth, a former Fox News host and a longtime supporter of Trump, was confirmed as Defense Secretary earlier this month in a highly contentious Senate vote. His appointment signaled a sharp ideological turn for the Department of Defense, as he has been vocal about purging what he calls the Pentagon’s “woke” culture and restoring loyalty to the commander in chief.

    Milley’s clashes with Trump were well-documented. In 2021, Milley confirmed that he had made backchannel reassurances to China in the final months of Trump’s presidency, a move he later defended as an effort to maintain stability and prevent misunderstandings that could have led to conflict. Trump and his allies have called those actions tantamount to treason.

    In his farewell speech in 2023, Milley warned against efforts to politicize the military, stating, “We don’t take an oath to a wannabe dictator. We take an oath to the Constitution.” His remarks were widely seen as a rebuke of Trump’s attempts to assert greater control over the military.

    Implications for Military Independence

    Critics argue that Hegseth’s actions against Milley amount to political retribution and could have a chilling effect on military leaders who seek to maintain independence from partisan influence. “This sets a dangerous precedent,” said a former senior Pentagon official who worked under multiple administrations. “Punishing retired military leaders for perceived disloyalty is the kind of thing we see in authoritarian regimes, not in the United States.”

    Supporters of the move, however, argue that Milley had overstepped his authority and that an investigation is necessary to ensure military leaders remain accountable. “Milley acted as though he was above civilian leadership,” said a senior Republican aide on Capitol Hill. “This is about restoring order and ensuring that no one undermines the commander in chief.”

    As the investigation unfolds, the decision to revoke Milley’s security protection raises concerns about his personal safety. The retired general has faced threats in the past, particularly after becoming a target of right-wing criticism. It remains unclear whether he will seek alternative protection.

    The developments mark a dramatic escalation in the ongoing struggle over the future of the U.S. military’s role in politics. As the new administration consolidates power, the treatment of Milley could serve as a litmus test for how far it is willing to go in reshaping the defense establishment—and whether political retribution will become a new norm in civil-military relations.

    #MarkMilley #PeteHegseth #Pentagon #MilitaryPolitics #Trump #CivilMilitaryRelations #NationalSecurity #PoliticalRetaliation #DefensePolicy

    Wong Kim Ark: The Case That Defined American Citizenship

    Liz Webster
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    0
    Wong Kim Ark: The Case That Defined American Citizenship

    How a Young Chinatown Cook Helped Establish Birthright Citizenship in the USA

    New York, N.Y. — In the 19th century, a landmark Supreme Court case involving Wong Kim Ark, a young Chinese American cook, forever shaped the future of citizenship in the United States.

    In the late 1800s, Wong Kim Ark, born in San Francisco to Chinese immigrant parents, found himself at the heart of a historic legal battle. Despite being born in the U.S., Wong’s citizenship was questioned under the Chinese Exclusion Act—a federal law that severely restricted immigration and discriminated against Chinese immigrants.

    In 1895, after a trip to China, Wong was denied reentry to the U.S., with officials claiming that his parents’ Chinese nationality disqualified him from being a U.S. citizen. Wong, however, fought back, taking his case all the way to the Supreme Court.

    The court’s 1898 decision in United States v. Wong Kim Ark affirmed the principle of birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment. The ruling clarified that anyone born on U.S. soil—regardless of their parents’ nationality—is a citizen, barring specific exceptions such as children of foreign diplomats. This precedent not only cemented Wong’s citizenship but also safeguarded the rights of countless others, particularly immigrant families and their children.

    Wong’s legacy endures as a pivotal moment in American civil rights history. His courage in challenging the government’s discrimination ensured that the Constitution’s promise of equal citizenship applied to all, regardless of race or heritage.

    Wong Kim Ark: The Case That Defined American Citizenship (Jan. 28, 2025)

    #BirthrightCitizenship, #WongKimArk, #14thAmendment, #ImmigrantHistory, #CivilRights, #ChineseExclusionAct

    @HistoryChannel, @ACLU, @ImmigrationPolicy, @CivilRightsOrg, @NationalArchives

    RFK Jr.’s Conspiracy Theories: A Threat to Public Health

    Liz Webster
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    0
    RFK Jr.’s Conspiracy Theories: A Threat to Public Health

    Washington, D.C. — Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s rise from environmental advocate to a figurehead of conspiracy theories and misinformation is emblematic of a troubling trend in American politics.

    His promotion of discredited vaccine-autism links, claims about COVID-19 as a bioweapon targeting specific ethnic groups, and baseless theories on antidepressants and school shootings showcase a pattern of dangerous pseudoscience.

    Even his family has disavowed him, labeling his actions as embarrassing and harmful. His nomination to lead the Department of Health and Human Services by President Trump raises grave concerns about public health, given his history of undermining scientific consensus.

    RFK Jr.’s Conspiracy Theories: A Threat to Public Health (Jan. 28, 2025)

    #RejectRFKJr #ScienceOverConspiracies #SayNoToRFKJr @RFKJrUnfit

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