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    A Place in Pop Culture: Lhasa’s Inspiring and Iconic Potala Palace

    Jim Luce
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    A Place in Pop Culture: Lhasa’s Inspiring and Iconic Potala Palace

    Even Bugs Bunny and Porky Pig have traveled to Potala Palace in Lhasa

    Directed by Martin Scorsese, Disney’s Kundun is based on the life and writings of the Dalai Lama and depicts His Holiness at several stages of his youth in Lhasa, Tibet living in Potala Palace.
    Dangerous Venture: even Bugs Bunny and Porky Pig have traveled to Potala Palace in Lhasa.

    The Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet was the winter residence of the Dalai Lama from the 7th century until 1959, and has been a museum and World Heritage Site since then. 

    It’s a 1,300-year-old dzong fortress that sits over 12,000 feet above sea level, making it the world’s highest palace and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism and the region’s traditional administration.

    Lost Horizon (Macmillan, 1933)

    James Hilton‘s fictional setting of Shangri-La is not directly based on the Potala Palace, however its depiction of a remote, mystical monastery in the Himalayas is often compared to the Potala.

    Bugs Bunny’s Dangerous Venture (1946)

    Bugs Bunny‘s popularity soared during World War II because of his free and easy attitude and he began receiving special star billing in his cartoons by 1943.

    After the war, Bugs and Porky Pig start a messenger service and a mysterious stranger ask them to deliver a package to “Omi-Akin-Bak” at the “Ritzmore Hotel.”

    Bugs and Porky take the package to the hotel, only to find that Mr. Bak has checked out and returned to his home in “Shangreet-Lo” in the “Forbidden Mountains of Tibet.” They then set out to deliver the package to him there, arriving at Potala Palace.

    Seven Years in Tibet (Sony, 1997)

    With music composed by John Williams and a feature performance by cellist Yo-Yo Ma, Brad Pitt stars in Seven Years in Tibet (1997), portraying an Austrian mountaineer with German citizenship imprisoned by the Allies at the start of World War II.

    He escapes his Himalayan prison in British India and crosses over to Tibet. In Lhasa he becomes tutor to the young Dalai Lama, teaching him in Potala Palace (Until the Communist takeover; the mountaineer eventual returns home while His Holiness treks across the mountains to freedom in India a decade later.)

    Kundun (Disney, 1997)

    Directed by Martin Scorsese, Kundun (title similar in meaning to “His Holiness”) is based on the life and writings of the 14th (today’s) Dalai Lama and depicts His Holiness at several stages of his youth in Lhasa, Tibet living in Potala Palace. This film covers the Dalai Lama from being identified as a toddler to fleeing the People’s Liberation Army across the mountains to India.

    The Golden Child (Paramount, 1986)

    Starring Eddie Murphy, this fantasy comedy film features the Potala Palace in its story line, adding an exotic element to the otherwise banal plot.

    The Golden Child stars Eddie Murphy as a social worker who is destined to save “The Golden Child”, a kidnapped Tibetan boy with mystical powers said to be the savior of all humankind.

    Video Games and Album Covers

    In addition, The Mandala of Sherlock Holmes (1999), a novel by Jamyang Norbu, incorporates Potala Palace as part of its Tibetan setting, weaving it into the adventures of the great detective. Finally, video games such as “Tomb Raider II” (1997) and “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves” (2009) feature levels set in Tibet, with the Potala Palace serving as an inspiration for some of the in-game environments, or include sets in a Tibetan village with architecture inspired by Potala Palace.

    The Potala Palace is a frequent subject in documentaries and photography books about Tibet, Buddhism, and world heritage sites. It is often depicted as a symbol of Tibetan culture and spirituality. Some music albums, particularly those with themes of spirituality or world music, have featured Potala Palace on their covers or in their artwork to evoke a sense of mysticism and cultural depth.

    These portrayals in popular culture help to highlight the Potala Palace’s iconic status and its significance as a symbol of Tibetan heritage.

    A Place in Pop Culture: Lhasa’s Inspiring and Iconic Potala Palace (June 22, 2023)

    Jim Luce Writes on Tibet & Tibetan-Americans

    Usha Vance

    Jim Luce
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    [draft]

    This is the first time an Indian American and practicing Hindu, Usha Vance, has stood to become a vice-presidential spouse.

    New York, N.Y. When Senator J.D. Vance became Donald J. Trump‘s running mate this week on the Republican presidential ticket, it also marked the first time that an Indian American and practicing Hindu, Usha Vance, stood to become a vice-presidential spouse. Usha’s profession is a litigator…

    This begs the question: “Is Usha Vance Chugging MAGA Kool-Aid Like Her Husband J.D.?”

    Usha Vance (June 21, 2024)

    U.S. Delegation Meets Dalai Lama in India, Draws Sharp China Rebuke

    Liz Webster
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    U.S. Delegation Meets Dalai Lama in India, Draws Sharp China Rebuke

    Bipartisan U.S. lawmakers visit Tibetan spiritual leader and exile government, highlighting human rights concerns and escalating diplomatic tensions

    New York, N.Y. — A bipartisan delegation of U.S. Congress members met with the His Holiness the Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamsala, India, on June 19, 2024, in a move that has prompted a swift and forceful protest from the Chinese government.

    The lawmakers also held talks with the Central Tibetan Administration, the Tibetan government-in-exile, underscoring renewed American support for Tibet’s autonomy and human rights amid ongoing tensions with Beijing.

    Historic Meeting Underscores U.S. Support for Tibetan Cause

    The bipartisan U.S. delegation, comprising both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, traveled to Dharamsala, the seat of the Tibetan exile community, to meet the 88-year-old Dalai Lama [Luce Index™ score: 98/100].

    The visit was part of a broader effort to reaffirm American commitment to the preservation of Tibetan culture, religion, and language in the face of what lawmakers described as “escalating oppression” under Chinese rule.

    His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s meeting with members of a U.S. Congressional Delegation at his residence in Dharamsala, HP, India on June 19, 2024.

    The delegation led by Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) also included Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA)[Luce Index™ score: 87/100], Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)[Luce Index™ score: 98/100], Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA), and Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA).

    During the meeting, the Dalai Lama addressed the delegation, emphasizing the importance of nonviolence and dialogue in resolving the Tibetan issue.

    The lawmakers, in turn, expressed solidarity with the Tibetan people and praised their resilience in maintaining their identity despite decades of Chinese control.

    “The United States has once again demonstrated its commitment to the Tibetan people in concrete terms that provide crucial resources for their pursuit of freedom and cultural preservation,” said Franz Matzner, director of government relations at the International Campaign for Tibet.

    China Condemns Visit, Accuses U.S. of Violating Diplomatic Commitments

    The Chinese Foreign Ministry swiftly condemned the Congressional visit, characterizing it as a violation of longstanding U.S. commitments not to support Tibetan independence. Beijing regards the Dalai Lama as a separatist and has repeatedly warned foreign governments against engaging with him or the exile administration.

    A spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry accused the U.S. delegation of “sending a very wrong signal to the outside world about supporting Tibetan independence” and called on Washington to “stop all kinds of contacts with the Dalai Lama and take immediate measures to remove the negative impact.”

    China’s protest reflects its longstanding position that Tibet is an integral part of its territory, a stance the U.S. has historically acknowledged in official policy while also supporting Tibetan cultural and religious rights.

    U.S. Policy Shifts and Legislative Backing for Tibet

    The visit comes on the heels of recent U.S. legislative actions aimed at supporting the Tibetan cause. In March 2024, President Joe Biden signed a bipartisan funding bill allocating over $20 million for Tibetan programs, including language preservation, environmental protection, and support for Tibetan democracy in exile. The legislation also restricts federal spending on materials recognizing Tibet as part of China until Beijing agrees to negotiate Tibet’s status with Tibetan leaders.

    These moves signal a growing willingness in Washington to challenge China’s narrative on Tibet and to support the Tibetan people’s right to self-determination. Lawmakers have also called attention to reports of human rights abuses and restrictions on religious freedom in the region.

    The Central Tibetan Administration: Government-in-Exile

    The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA), established in 1959 after the Dalai Lama fled Tibet, serves as the legitimate government for Tibetans in exile. Based in Dharamsala, the CTA operates with executive, legislative, and judicial branches and is led by an elected Sikyong (political leader). The CTA has played a crucial role in preserving Tibetan identity and advocating for the rights of Tibetans worldwide.

    The U.S. delegation’s meeting with CTA officials further underscored American recognition of the exile government’s role in representing Tibetan interests, a point of continued contention with Beijing.

    Diplomatic Fallout and Broader U.S.-China Tensions

    The Congressional visit is likely to add strain to already fraught U.S.-China relations, which have been tested by disputes over trade, technology, Taiwan, and human rights. China has previously responded to similar visits and U.S. sanctions related to Tibet by lodging formal protests and warning of damage to bilateral ties.

    Despite these tensions, U.S. lawmakers have signaled that support for Tibet remains a bipartisan priority, with calls for sustained diplomatic and financial backing for Tibetan communities both inside and outside China.

    Summary for Audio File

    In June 2024, a bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation met with the Dalai Lama and the Central Tibetan Administration in Dharamsala, India, reaffirming American support for Tibetan autonomy and human rights. The visit sparked a strong protest from China, which accused the U.S. of violating diplomatic commitments and supporting Tibetan separatism. U.S. lawmakers pledged continued support for Tibetan cultural preservation and democracy, highlighting escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing over the issue.

    #DalaiLama #Tibet #USChinaRelations #HumanRights #CongressionalDelegation
    #Dharamsala #CentralTibetanAdministration #TibetAutonomy #plomacy #GlobalAffairs

    TAGS: Dalai Lama, US Congress, China, Tibet, Central Tibetan Administration,
    human rights, bipartisan, Dharamsala, diplomacy, international relations

    U.S. Lawmakers Meet Dalai Lama as China Slams Visit  

    Voice of America
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    U.S. Lawmakers Meet Dalai Lama as China Slams Visit  

    Congressman Michael McCaul, who led the seven-member visiting delegation, said the bill reaffirms American support for what he referred to as the Tibetan right to self-determination. He said that their delegation had received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning them not to visit.

    New Delhi — A group of U.S. lawmakers met the Dalai Lama in India’s northern town of Dharamshala Wednesday, amid cheers from Tibetans in exile and an angry reaction from China, which calls the Tibetan spiritual leader a separatist and a splittist.

    The visit follows the passage last week of a bill by the U.S. Congress that seeks to encourage dialogue between Beijing and Tibetan leaders in exile, who have been seeking more autonomy for Tibet. Talks with the Dalai Lama’s representatives and China stalled in 2010.

    “This bill is a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet,” Nancy Pelosi, former House Speaker, said to cheers from hundreds of Tibetans whom the lawmakers addressed at a public ceremony after meeting the Dalai Lama at his residence.

    U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to soon sign the legislation called “Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act,” also referred to as the Resolve Tibet Act.

    Photo: The Dalai Lama speaks with former U..S House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during their meeting at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India, 2024. Credit: Tenzin Choejor/Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

    In Dharamshala, where the Tibetan government in exile is based, the visit of the U.S. lawmakers brought hope. “It is a jubilant moment for all Tibetans. We are all overjoyed. The visit is very significant because it comes soon after the passage of the bill which we hope will soon be passed into law,” Tenzin Lekshay, spokesperson for the Central Tibetan Administration, told VOA.

    Congressman Michael McCaul, who led the seven-member visiting delegation, said the bill reaffirms American support for what he referred to as the Tibetan right to self-determination. He said that their delegation had received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning them not to visit.

    Beijing said the U.S. should not sign into law the bill passed by Congress. “China will take resolute measures to firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, Lin Jian said on Tuesday, as the lawmakers arrived in the Indian town.

    The Chinese embassy in New Delhi reiterated Beijing’s concerns. “We urge the U.S. side to fully recognize the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honor the commitments the U.S. has made to China on issues related to Xizang, stop sending the wrong signal to the world,” it said in a statement Tuesday night. Xizang is China’s name for Tibet.

    Photo: The Dalai Lama speaks with former U.S. Representative Jim McGovern of Massachusetts during their meeting at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India, June 19, 2024. Credit: Tenzin Choejor/Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

    In his remarks to Tibetans, McCaul said it is important that China not influence the choice of the Dalai Lama’s successor. “Beijing has even attempted to insert itself into choosing the successor of the Dalai Lama,” he said. “We will not let that happen.”

    The issue is contentious. China says it has the right to approve the spiritual leader’s successor while according to Tibetan tradition, the Dalai Lama is reincarnated after his death. The Dalai Lama has said his successor is likely to be found in India but Tibetans in exile fear China will try to designate a person to be the successor, in an effort to bolster control over Tibet.

    Meanwhile, Tibetan spokesman Lekshay said China needs to come forward to reinstate a dialogue with exiled Tibetan leaders. “It is a time for introspection for China to see what is going wrong, particularly with the Tibet issue which has been a longstanding conflict. China needs to be more positive.”

    Beijing does not recognize the exiled administration.

    A formal dialogue process between the Dalai Lama’s representatives and the Chinese government ended in 2010 after it failed to produce a concrete outcome.

    Pointing out that they are asking for autonomy within China and not independence, Lekshay said the Tibetan administration in exile did not represent a separatist movement.

    Tibetans in exile say they fear that their culture, language and identity is under threat due to Chinese assimilation of the region.

    The Dalai Lama, who fled to India in 1959, has been instrumental in putting the Tibetan cause in the global spotlight but in recent years some Tibetan activists have expressed concerns that the Tibet cause is not getting appropriate attention in Western capitals.

    The Himalayan town of Dharamshala has been the Dalai Lama’s home since he fled Tibet over six decades ago following a failed uprising against Chinese rule.

    U.S. Lawmakers Meet Dalai Lama as China Slams Visit (June 19, 2024)

    Forging His Own Way: Patrick Schwarzenegger’s Remarkable Story

    Jim Luce
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    Forging His Own Way: Patrick Schwarzenegger’s Remarkable Story

    Photo: Patrick Schwarzenegger.

    As the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, a legendary actor and former governor, and Maria Shriver, a renowned journalist and activist, he witnessed firsthand the power of using one’s platform for good.

    New York, N.Y. As I reflect on the remarkable journey of Patrick Arnold Shriver Schwarzenegger, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of admiration and respect. Born into a family of icons, he has carved out his own path, embracing the legacy bestowed upon him while forging his own identity as a global citizen and thought leader.

    Anrold Schwarzenegger with his son Patrick Patrick Arnold Shriver Schwarzenegger, Venice Beach, CA.

    From an early age, Patrick’s upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the arts and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. As the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, a legendary actor and former governor, and Maria Shriver, a renowned journalist and activist, he witnessed firsthand the power of using one’s platform for good.

    Despite the weight of his family’s illustrious names, Patrick has approached his journey with humility and a relentless drive to create his own mark. His passion for acting has been evident since his childhood, and he has honed his craft with unwavering dedication. With each role he takes on, Patrick brings a depth of emotion and authenticity that captivates audiences worldwide.

    Yet, Patrick’s influence extends far beyond the silver screen. He has become a vocal advocate for environmental causes, using his platform to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect our planet. His commitment to sustainability and his efforts to inspire others to adopt eco-friendly practices have earned him respect and admiration from environmentalists and global citizens alike.

    Moreover, Patrick’s philanthropic endeavors have touched the lives of countless individuals. He has lent his support to various charitable organizations, championing causes that range from education to healthcare. His genuine concern for those in need and his willingness to use his influence to make a tangible difference have solidified his status as a true humanitarian.

    What sets Patrick apart is his ability to seamlessly blend his artistic pursuits with his philanthropic and environmental initiatives. He understands the power of storytelling and uses his platform to raise awareness and inspire change. Through his roles and public appearances, he has become a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the importance of compassion, empathy, and environmental stewardship.

    As I observe Patrick’s journey, I am struck by his unwavering commitment to excellence and his determination to leave a lasting impact on the world. He embodies the spirit of a true global citizen, transcending borders and embracing diversity while championing causes that unite us all.

    In a world that often celebrates superficial achievements, Patrick Schwarzenegger stands as a shining example of what it means to use one’s influence for the greater good. His dedication to his craft, his passion for environmental causes, and his philanthropic endeavors have inspired countless individuals to follow in his footsteps, creating a ripple effect that will undoubtedly shape the world for generations to come.

    As Patrick continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of entertainment and global activism, I have no doubt that he will continue to inspire and uplift those around him. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, authenticity, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the world.

    Forging His Own Way: Patrick Schwarzenegger’s Remarkable Story (June 18, 2022)

    #PatrickSchwarzenegger #ActorExtraordinaire #LegacyInspiration #GlobalCitizen

    TAGS: Acting, Hollywood, Inspiration, Philanthropy, Environment, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Global Citizen

    Jim Luce Writes on Young Global Leadership

    Kellen Stancil Takes Helm for “Broadway Bares: Hit the Strip” with Dazzling Style

    John Laing
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    Kellen Stancil Takes Helm for “Broadway Bares: Hit the Strip” with Dazzling Style

    Photo: Kellen Stancil.

    New York, N.Y. Get ready for a night of high-energy dance and sizzling performances as Kellen Stancil takes the director’s chair for this year’s “Broadway Bares: Hit the Strip.” This annual burlesque extravaganza, produced by Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS (BC/EFA), is set to dazzle audiences with its Las Vegas-inspired theme on June 23, 2023, at the Hammerstein Ballroom.

    Stancil, a renowned choreographer and veteran performer known for his 11-year run as the dance captain for “The Lion King” on Broadway, brings his unique vision and passion to this year’s production. Known for his innovative and provocative work, Stancil is sure to push the boundaries of dance and entertainment while raising awareness about the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.

    Leading a talented creative team, including associate director Paula DeLuise and a roster of accomplished choreographers, Stancil will oversee performances from over 150 Broadway dancers. “Broadway Bares: Hit the Strip” promises a night of dazzling costumes, electrifying dance numbers, and plenty of surprises. The star-studded cast of Broadway performers, dancers, and celebrities will come together to support the AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s mission to provide lifesaving care and treatment to people living with HIV/AIDS.

    “I’m thrilled to be directing ‘Broadway Bares: Hit the Strip,'” said Stancil. “This event is so much more than just a performance. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the power of dance, raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, and make a real difference in the lives of those affected by this disease.”

    “Broadway Bares” has a long history of supporting the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, having raised millions of dollars for essential services for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS and other critical illnesses. Last year’s edition alone generated an impressive $1.9 million for BC/EFA’s noble cause. This year’s production promises to be its most exciting yet, with a mix of classic Broadway showstoppers and original choreography that will leave audiences breathless.

    Tickets for “Broadway Bares: Hit the Strip” are on sale now. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the magic of Broadway while supporting a vital cause.

    Kellen Stancil Takes Helm for “Broadway Bares: Hit the Strip” with Dazzling Style (June 18, 2024)

    #BroadwayBares #HitTheStrip #KellenStancil #DanceforLife #CharityEvent #BurlesqueBenefit #AIDSHealthcareFoundation #BroadwayCares

    Jim Luce Writes on LGBTQ+ Issues

    Thailand First Southeast Asian Nation to Enact Marriage Equality

    Liz Webster
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    Thailand First Southeast Asian Nation to Enact Marriage Equality

    Jim Luce married a Thai national who is now a naturalized U.S. citizen. If the King approves this, what will this mean for them in Thailand?

    New York, N.Y. — LGBTQ+ advocates hailed the move as a significant “victory” as it makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to enact marriage equality legislation.

    The editor with his legally married — in U.S. — partner Bix Luce.

    On Tuesday, Thai lawmakers passed the final reading of a marriage equality law after more than two decades of effort from activists and politicians.

    This vote sets Thailand on the path to becoming the first Southeast Asian nation and the third Asian nation—after Nepal and Taiwan—to recognize same-sex marriage.

    The Senate’s upper house approved the bill by an overwhelming majority of 130 to 4, with 18 abstentions. The legislation now heads to King Maha Vajiralongkorn for royal approval.

    How was the news greeted?

    LGBTQ+ rights advocates have called the move a “victory.

    Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, an MP with the progressive Move Forward Party, said, “Today is the day that Thai people will smile. It is a victory for the people.”

    “Today is the day that Thai people will smile. It is a victory for the people.”

    “We are very proud of everyone involved in this historic moment. You have helped to bring about a massive change,” Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, an LGBTQ activist and committee member who scrutinized the law, told senators following the vote. “Today love wins over prejudice.”

    Thailand’s Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, has given the LGBTQ community and the bill his full backing and will open his official residence to activists and supporters for celebrations later.

    What will change?

    Thailand’s vibrant gay and transgender community, the Thai LGBTQ community has lacked many rights reserved for legal partners. The new legislation changes references to “men,” “women,” “husbands,” and “wives” in marriage laws to gender-neutral terms. It also grants same-sex couples the right to adopt children and provides several privileges such as tax deductions, medical consent for spouses, joint property management, and inheritance rights.

    Thailand First Southeast Asian Nation to Enact Marriage Equality (June 18, 2024)

    Jim Luce Writes on Thailand & Thai Diaspora

    U.S. Surgeon General Says Social Media Apps Need Warning Labels

    Voice of America
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    U.S. Surgeon General Says Social Media Apps Need Warning Labels

    Photo: Vivek Murthy sworn in as surgeon general in the White House. Credit: Wikimedia Commons.

    Adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media face double the risk of anxiety and depression symptoms.

    Washington, D.C. The top public health officer in the United States has called for warning labels to be placed on social media applications, advising users — particularly parents of teenagers — that the platforms may damage the mental health of young people.

    Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy made his case for the warning in an opinion column published Monday in The New York Times, characterizing the issue as a problem that requires immediate action.

    “The mental health crisis among young people is an emergency — and social media has emerged as an important contributor,” Murthy wrote. “Adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media face double the risk of anxiety and depression symptoms, and the average daily use in this age group, as of the summer of 2023, was 4.8 hours. Additionally, nearly half of adolescents say social media makes them feel worse about their bodies.”

    Murthy argued that a “surgeon general’s warning” label should be applied to social media applications similar to those that appear on containers of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products. The warnings spell out the specific risks associated with using both products.

    Although Murthy heads the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, he does not have the authority to require companies to adopt such warnings. Such a requirement must be passed by Congress.

    In his column, Murthy cited the past benefits of warning labels, which he said “would regularly remind parents and adolescents that social media has not been proved safe. Evidence from tobacco studies show that warning labels can increase awareness and change behavior.”

    Other steps

    Murthy argued that social media applications are designed to be addictive, using push notifications, autoplay videos and the ability to scroll through a seemingly infinite stream of posts to keep user’s attention on the platform.

    FILE - Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram apps are seen on a smartphone in this illustration made July 13, 2021.
    FILE – Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram apps are seen on a smartphone in this illustration made July 13, 2021.

    Although he did not name any specific applications, the characteristics he described are common to most of the major platforms, including TikTok, Instagram and X.

    Murthy conceded that a warning label would not, by itself, be enough to quell what he called the “harms” of social media. He called on the platforms to be more transparent about how they work, on schools to restrict students’ access to smartphones during the school day, and on parents to be vigilant about limiting younger teens’ access to social media.

    “The moral test of any society is how well it protects its children,” Murthy wrote. “We have the expertise, resources and tools to make social media safe for our kids. Now is the time to summon the will to act. Our children’s well-being is at stake.”

    Growing movement

    Murthy’s call for warning labels adds his voice to a growing movement that claims smartphone technology, and especially social media, presents a unique danger to youth.

    In March, Jonathan Haidt, a psychologist and New York University professor, published a book, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness, which became an immediate bestseller.

    While Haidt’s critique of modern childhood is not limited to the use of social media, he concluded that the rise of such platforms has been a major contributor to what he also described as a mental health crisis among young people.

    Writing about his research in The Atlantic magazine, Haidt said, “A study of teens in 29 nations found that between 5 and 15 percent of adolescents engage in what is called ‘problematic social media use,’ which includes symptoms such as preoccupation, withdrawal symptoms, neglect of other areas of life, and lying to parents and friends about time spent on social media.”

    Extent of harm doubted

    While there are many high-profile supporters of the claim that social media is uniquely harmful to teenagers, the sentiment is far from universally shared. Some experts argue that the current wave of alarm about social media is an echo of similar tides of fear that washed over the country after other kinds of new technology were released.

    In the early part of the 20th century, there was broad social concern about the impact radio would have on young people, a concern that recurred with even more force with television a few decades later. Panic about the impact of video games also surged in the early part of this century.

    “It’s very clearly a moral panic,” Stetson University psychology professor Christopher Ferguson said about the current concern about social media. “Political efforts and lawsuits are creating this narrative, but there’s a wide gulf between that narrative and the actual data that can be used to support it.”

    Ferguson said research on mental health in teenagers is far from conclusive when it tries to assess the actual impact the platforms have on younger users, and that some of the data suggest the connections are marginal at best.

    He also said that some impacts, such as the documented rise in the suicide rate in the U.S., have not been mirrored in other wealthy Western countries where the adoption of smartphones and social media has happened at a similar rate.

    Half Million Immigrants may get U.S. Citizenship Under Biden’s New Plan

    Voice of America
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    Half Million Immigrants may get U.S. Citizenship Under Biden’s New Plan

    The Stewardship Report unequivocally supports this initiative

    Washington, D.C. President Joe Biden is taking an expansive, election-year step to offer relief to potentially hundreds of thousands of immigrants without legal status in the U.S. — aiming to balance his own aggressive crackdown on the border earlier this month that enraged advocates and many Democratic lawmakers.

    The White House announced Tuesday that the Biden administration will, in the coming months, allow certain spouses of U.S. citizens without legal status to apply for permanent residency and eventually, citizenship. The move could affect upwards of half a million immigrants, according to senior administration officials.

    To qualify, an immigrant must have lived in the United States for ten years as of Monday and be married to a U.S. citizen. If a qualifying immigrant’s application is approved, he or she would have three years to apply for a green card, and receive a temporary work permit and be shielded from deportation in the meantime.

    About 50,000 noncitizen children with a parent who is married to a U.S. citizen could also potentially qualify for the same process, according to senior administration officials who briefed reporters on the proposal on condition of anonymity. There is no requirement on how long the couple must have been married, and no one becomes eligible after Monday. That means immigrants who reach that 10 year mark any time after June 17, 2024, will not qualify for the program, according to the officials.

    Senior administration officials said they anticipate the process will be open for applications by the end of the summer, and fees to apply have yet to be determined.

    Biden will speak about his plans at a Tuesday afternoon event at the White House, which will also mark the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, a popular Obama-era directive that offered deportation protections and temporary work permits for young immigrants who lack legal status.

    White House officials privately encouraged Democrats in the House, which is in recess this week, to travel back to Washington to attend the announcement.

    The president will also announce new regulations that will allow certain DACA beneficiaries and other young immigrants to more easily qualify for long-established work visas. That would allow qualifying immigrants to have protection that is sturdier than the work permits offered by DACA, which is currently facing legal challenges and is no longer taking new applications.

    The power that Biden is invoking with his Tuesday announcement for spouses is not a novel one. The policy would expand on authority used by presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama to allow “parole in place” for family members of military members, said Andrea Flores, a former policy adviser in the Obama and Biden administrations who is now a vice president at FWD.us, an immigration advocacy organization.

    The parole-in-place process allows qualifying immigrants to get on the path to U.S. permanent residency without leaving the country, removing a common barrier for those without legal status but married to Americans. Flores said it “fulfills President Biden’s day one promise to protect undocumented immigrants and their American families.”

    Tuesday’s announcement comes two weeks after Biden unveiled a sweeping crackdown at the U.S.-Mexico border that effectively halted asylum claims for those arriving between officially designated ports of entry. Immigrant-rights groups have sued the Biden administration over that directive, which a senior administration official said Monday had led to fewer border encounters between ports.

    Jim Luce Writes on Migration & Immigration

    Sikh Identity and Dream of Khalistan: Historical, Cultural Analysis

    Jim Luce
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    Sikh Identity and Dream of Khalistan: Historical, Cultural Analysis

    Photo: Paramjit Singh Pamma with two boys.

    New York, N.Y. As someone deeply interested in global cultural and political movements, I’ve found the Sikh faith and the ongoing quest for an independent Sikh state, known as Khalistan, both compelling and significant. Sikhism, with its rich history and profound spiritual depth, has shaped millions of lives and continues to influence global discourse on human rights, sovereignty, and cultural identity.

    What is Sikhism?

    Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that originated in the Punjab region of India in the late 15th century. It was founded by Guru Nanak and later developed through the teachings of nine successive gurus. The core beliefs of Sikhism include faith and meditation on the name of the one creator, the divine unity and equality of all humankind, engaging in selfless service, striving for justice for the benefit and prosperity of all, and honest conduct and livelihood while living a householder’s life. The Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, serves as the eternal Guru, guiding followers through its hymns and teachings.

    The faith emphasizes the importance of community, known as the Sangat, and the Gurdwara, which is the Sikh place of worship. Sikhs are encouraged to live by the principles of Naam Japna (meditation on God’s name), Kirat Karni (honest living), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others). These principles form the foundation of a life devoted to justice, equality, and service to humanity.

    What and Where is Khalistan?

    Khalistan refers to the proposed sovereign state for Sikhs, envisioned to be established in the Punjab region of northern India. The term “Khalistan” means “Land of the Khalsa,” referring to the community of initiated Sikhs. The movement for Khalistan gained momentum in the late 20th century, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s, driven by a desire for political autonomy and the protection of Sikh rights and identity.

    The demand for Khalistan arose from historical grievances, including perceived injustices and discrimination against Sikhs in India, especially following the partition of India in 1947, which left Punjab divided between India and Pakistan. The situation escalated after the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and Operation Blue Star, an Indian military action aimed at flushing out militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar. These events deeply scarred the Sikh community, leading to increased support for the Khalistan movement.

    Gurpatwant Singh Pannun: A Leading Advocate

    One of the prominent voices advocating for Khalistan is Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. As the legal advisor to Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), Pannun has played a crucial role in bringing international attention to the cause. SFJ is an advocacy group that campaigns for a referendum on the independence of Punjab, seeking to establish Khalistan through democratic means.

    Pannun’s efforts include organizing international campaigns, legal battles, and lobbying for recognition of Sikh rights. His dedication to the cause, despite significant opposition and personal risk, is a testament to his commitment to justice and self-determination for Sikhs. Pannun’s work has highlighted the plight of Sikhs and the importance of addressing their historical and contemporary grievances.

    Paramjit Singh Pamma: A Story of Resilience

    Paramjit Singh Pamma is another key figure in the Khalistan movement. His journey has been marked by persecution, imprisonment, and relentless advocacy. Pamma’s experiences underscore the resilience and determination required to champion a cause that faces significant political and legal challenges.

    Pamma’s activism has taken him across the globe, seeking asylum and using his platform to raise awareness about the Sikh struggle. His ability to connect with the Sikh diaspora and mobilize support has been instrumental in keeping the dream of Khalistan alive. Pamma’s story is one of courage in the face of adversity, inspiring many to continue the fight for justice and sovereignty.

    Harjit Singh Sajjan: A Symbol of Sikh Success and Advocacy

    Harjit Singh Sajjan, Canada’s Minister of National Defense, represents the intersection of Sikh identity and global leadership. Born in Punjab and immigrating to Canada, Sajjan has served in the Canadian Armed Forces and later in the government, where he has become a prominent advocate for human rights and Sikh issues.

    Sajjan’s rise to a high-ranking position in the Canadian government is a source of pride for Sikhs worldwide. His balanced approach, combining his military background with advocacy for peace and justice, exemplifies the qualities of a global citizen dedicated to making a positive impact. Sajjan’s speeches and actions often highlight the contributions of Sikhs and the importance of recognizing their rights and heritage.

    Global Impact of the Khalistan Movement

    The movement for Khalistan has far-reaching implications, not only for Sikhs in India but also for the global Sikh diaspora. It raises important questions about self-determination, minority rights, and the role of international support in achieving political goals. The advocacy efforts of Pannun, Pamma, and Sajjan demonstrate the power of diaspora communities in influencing global discourse and policy.

    From my perspective, understanding Sikhism and the quest for Khalistan is crucial in appreciating the broader context of human rights and cultural identity. The resilience and dedication of these thought leaders highlight the importance of standing up for justice and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Their stories inspire us to consider the complexities of national sovereignty, cultural preservation, and the ongoing struggle for equality and dignity.

    Sikh Identity and Dream of Khalistan: Historical, Cultural Analysis (June 18, 2023)

    #Sikhism #Khalistan #SikhRights #SelfDetermination #HumanRights #GlobalCitizens #Advocacy #Justice #SikhHeritage #CulturalIdentity

    TAGS: Sikhism, Khalistan, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, Paramjit Singh Pamma, Harjit Singh Sajjan, Sikh rights, self-determination, human rights, Sikh community, global advocacy, Sikh diaspora, cultural identity, sovereignty, justice, equality, Sikh heritage

    Indian Suspect in Sikh Separatist Assassination Plot Extradited to Brooklyn

    Liz Webster
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    Indian Suspect in Sikh Separatist Assassination Plot Extradited to Brooklyn

    The revelation of assassination plots targeting Sikh separatists in the U.S. and Canada has strained relations with India, which is seen by Western nations as a key player in countering China’s influence. The Indian government denies any involvement in these plots.

    New York, N.Y. An Indian man accused of involvement in a failed plot to assassinate a Sikh separatist in the United States has been extradited from the Czech Republic, according to the Czech justice minister.

    Nikhil Gupta is charged by U.S. federal prosecutors with conspiring with an Indian government official to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a U.S. resident advocating for an independent Sikh state in northern India known as Khalistan.

    Gupta was apprehended by Czech authorities after traveling to Prague from India last June. His extradition was approved after a Czech court dismissed his appeal to avoid being sent to the U.S., paving the way for the Czech justice minister’s decision.

    “Following my decision on June 3, Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta, suspected of conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire with intent to cause death, was extradited to the U.S. on Friday, June 14, for criminal prosecution,” Czech Justice Minister Pavel Blazek announced on social media platform X.

    The announcement confirmed an earlier Reuters report, which cited the federal Bureau of Prisons website and a knowledgeable source.

    An inmate search on the Bureau of Prisons website revealed that Gupta, 52, is currently held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, a federal administrative detention facility.

    The U.S. Justice Department declined to comment on the case.

    Gupta’s U.S.-based attorney, Jeffrey Chabrowe, also had no immediate comment.

    In September, Canada reported that its intelligence agencies were investigating allegations linking the Indian government to the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023.

    In November, U.S. authorities claimed that an Indian government official orchestrated the plot to murder Pannun, who holds both U.S. and Canadian citizenship. Gupta is implicated in this conspiracy.

    Pannun told Reuters on Sunday that Gupta’s extradition is a positive development but described Gupta as merely a “foot soldier.”

    The Indian government has distanced itself from the alleged plot against Pannun, asserting that such actions are contrary to its policies. India has stated it will formally investigate the security concerns raised by Washington.

    Jim Luce Writes on Sikhism, Sikh Diaspora & Khalistan

    New $50 Million Biden Ad Campaign Targets Trump Felony Convictions

    Liz Webster
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    New $50 Million Biden Ad Campaign Targets Trump Felony Convictions

    Photo: Watching Donald Trump vs Joe Biden Presidential Debate on ABC News September 2020. Credit: Elvert Barnes.

    “Character Matters,” a 30-second ad that says “this election is between a convicted criminal who’s only out for himself, and a president who’s fighting for your family,” drawing a contrast between the two candidates, will run in all battleground states that have switched between Republicans and Democrats in recent elections, starting on Monday.

    New York, N.Y. President Joe Biden’s campaign will target Republican challenger Donald Trump’s felony convictions as part of a $50 million ad campaign ahead of the first presidential debate between both candidates on June 27.
     
    The move, one of the largest advertising spends of the campaign so far, marks a notable shift in Biden’s approach to Trump’s conviction after the president’s initial reluctance to weigh in on the issue, to avoid engaging with Trump’s legal woes.
     
    Trump was convicted by a New York jury on May 30 of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records.
     
    “Crooked Joe Biden and the Democrats’ weaponized the justice system against President Trump and this new ad once again proves the sham trial was always meant to be election interference, but Americans see through it,” Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt wrote on the social media platform X.
     
    Biden and Trump remain tied in national polls with less than five months to go before the election, while Trump has the edge in the battleground states that will decide it, polls conducted before the conviction show. On economic issues like inflation, Trump scores higher with voters overall than Biden.
     
    Biden’s campaign and several Democrats were initially reluctant to emphasize Trump’s conviction, taking a wait-and-see approach to advertising and new strategies. They wanted to see polls and voter feedback before reacting strongly.
     
    Earlier this month, at a fundraiser with a small group of donors in Greenwich, Connecticut, Biden for the first time called Trump a “convicted felon” and said his predecessor poses a higher threat to the United States if he wins another term.
     
    A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted just after Trump’s conviction found 10% of Republican voters said they are less likely to vote for Trump in November after his conviction, a significant number given the narrow margins that decide U.S. presidential elections.
     
    Trump also faces criminal charges in three other cases: a Georgia election interference case, a Florida documents case and a federal election interference case. He is also appealing the results of his civil trials.
     
    The June 27 debate between Biden and Trump, billed as one of the most significant moments of this year’s campaign calendar, is less than two weeks away, and both campaigns are preparing for the first showdown.
     
    The debate will include two commercial breaks, no props and muted microphones except when recognized to speak, CNN, which will host the debate in Atlanta, said on Saturday.

    The Biden campaign’s fundraising in April lagged Trump’s for the first time, after the former president ramped up his joint operation with the Republican National Committee and headlined high-dollar fundraisers.
     
    Democrats still maintained an overall cash advantage over Trump and the Biden campaign continues to have a considerably larger war chest. On Saturday, Biden raised $30 million at a star-studded fundraiser in Los Angeles.

    “Harriet Tubman of Texas” Remembered this Juneteenth

    Jim Luce
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    “Harriet Tubman of Texas” Remembered this Juneteenth

    Photo: Headstone of children of Silvia and John Webber in Webber Cemetery, Hidalgo County, Texas. Credit: Sandra Sanchez.

    Crossing the Rio Grande to Freedom in Mexico

    New York, N.Y. Silvia Hector Webber, often referred to as the “Harriet Tubman of Texas,” played a significant role in aiding enslaved people seeking freedom by guiding them to Mexico. Born into slavery, Silvia gained her freedom and, alongside her husband John Ferdinand Webber, established a safe haven for escaped slaves in Texas.

    Representative image of Silvia Hector Webber, from Noah Smithwick, The Evolution of a State or Recollections of Old Texas Days (Austin: The University of Texas Press, 1983).

    The Webbers originally settled in Webberville, Texas, where they faced increasing racial hostility as more settlers from the Deep South moved into the area. By the early 1850s, threats to their safety prompted them to relocate to Hidalgo County in South Texas.

    Here, they established an 8,856-acre ranch near the Rio Grande, a strategic location for aiding freedom seekers due to its proximity to the Mexican border, where slavery had been abolished since 1837.

    Silvia and John were dedicated anti-slavery advocates and Union sympathizers.

    Their ranch became an essential stop on the Underground Railroad, where they provided shelter, food, and assistance to those fleeing slavery. They utilized their ferry business to transport these individuals across the Rio Grande to freedom in Mexico.

    The Webbers’ efforts were part of a broader network of anti-slavery activities along the U.S.-Mexico border, which included support from their neighbors, Matilda and Nathaniel Jackson.

    Throughout the Civil War, the Webber family faced persecution for their Unionist stance, leading them to temporarily flee to Mexico to escape Confederate forces. They returned to their ranch after the war, where Silvia continued her charitable work until her death in 1892.

    Silvia Hector Webber’s legacy as a champion for freedom and equality is commemorated in Texas history, notably in exhibits like “Freedom Papers: Evidence of Emancipation” at the University of Texas at Austin, which highlights her contributions to the abolitionist cause.

    “Harriet Tubman of Texas” Remembered this Juneteenth (June 17, 2024)

    Jim Luce Writes on Slavery & Reparations

    Battle of Bunker Hill Leaders: Guardians of American Democracy

    Jim Luce
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    Battle of Bunker Hill Leaders: Guardians of American Democracy

    The principles for which the leaders of Bunker Hill fought are at risk of being undermined by the authoritarian ambitions of Donald Trump. His efforts to weaken the Constitution and consolidate power threaten to erode the very freedoms that the American patriots fought so valiantly to secure.

    New York, N.Y. We reflect on a pivotal moment in American history—the Battle of Bunker Hill, fought on June 17, 1775, almost 250 years ago. The leaders of this battle—figures like Colonel William Prescott, General Israel Putnam, and Dr. Joseph Warren—embodied the ideals of courage, resilience, and the pursuit of liberty. Their actions and the sacrifices made during this confrontation laid the groundwork for the creation of America, a nation founded on the principles of freedom and democracy.

    The Battle of Bunker Hill, despite being a tactical defeat for the American forces, proved to be a significant moral victory. It demonstrated the colonists’ willingness to stand against the British Empire and fight for their rights and independence. The leaders of this battle, through their strategic acumen and unyielding determination, galvanized the American cause and inspired countless others to join the struggle for freedom.

    Colonel William Prescott’s famous order, “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes,” exemplified the strategic ingenuity and disciplined resolve that characterized the American forces. His leadership on the front lines was a testament to his commitment to the cause of liberty. Prescott, alongside General Israel Putnam, who played a crucial role in organizing the defense, and Dr. Joseph Warren, a physician and patriot who gave his life on the battlefield, exemplified the spirit of selfless service and dedication to the principles that would define the new nation.

    This battle was not just a military engagement; it was a manifestation of the core values that would come to define America.

    The courage displayed by the leaders and soldiers at Bunker Hill underscored a commitment to liberty, justice, and the belief that all individuals have the right to self-determination. These values, enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, are the bedrock of American democracy.

    As we look back at the Battle of Bunker Hill, we are reminded of the importance of these foundational values and the need to protect them from threats, both external and internal. Today, we face a critical juncture in our history. The principles for which the leaders of Bunker Hill fought are at risk of being undermined by the authoritarian ambitions of figures like Donald Trump. His efforts to weaken the Constitution and consolidate power threaten to erode the very freedoms that the American patriots fought so valiantly to secure.

    The lessons of Bunker Hill are more relevant than ever.

    The battle teaches us that democracy requires constant vigilance and the courage to stand against tyranny. The leaders of Bunker Hill understood that the fight for freedom is never easy but always necessary. Their legacy reminds us that we must be unwavering in our commitment to the principles of liberty and justice, even in the face of formidable challenges.

    If we allow the values of Bunker Hill to be compromised, we risk losing the essence of what makes America great.

    The sacrifices made by Prescott, Putnam, Warren, and countless others must not be in vain. Their fight was for a future where the rule of law prevails, where power is checked by democratic institutions, and where every individual’s rights are protected.

    The Battle of Bunker Hill symbolizes the birth of the American spirit—a spirit of resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to freedom. As we honor the leaders of this historic battle, we are called to defend the ideals they championed. We must ensure that the vision of America as a beacon of democracy and justice endures, rejecting any attempts to subvert our Constitution and our democratic values.

    In reflecting on Bunker Hill, we are inspired to take up the mantle of those who came before us, to stand firm against authoritarianism, and to preserve the principles that define us as a nation. The leaders of Bunker Hill have shown us the way; it is now our responsibility to continue their fight, safeguarding the legacy of liberty for future generations.

    Bunker Hill Leaders: Guardians of American Democracy (June 17, 2024)

    #BunkerHill #AmericanRevolution #DefendDemocracy #FightForFreedom #NoToAuthoritarianism

    TAGS: Battle of Bunker Hill, William Prescott, Israel Putnam, Joseph Warren, American Revolution, liberty, democracy, authoritarianism, Donald Trump, Constitution

    Jim Luce Writes on History

    Chapter VI. Reginald Featherbottom Visits the Berlin Zoological Garden

    John Laing
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    Chapter VI. Reginald Featherbottom Visits the Berlin Zoological Garden

    By John Laing, Bangkok

    Berlin —

    The True Tales of Reginald Featherbottom, Correspondent of The London Clarion

    Chapter I. Reginald Featherbottom and the Great Suez “Camal” Mystery | Cairo (Jan. 15, 2024)
    Chapter II. Reginald Featherbottom and The Holy Land | Jerusalem (Feb. 15, 2024)
    Chapter III. Reginald Featherbottom Visits the Ottoman Empire | Constantinople (March 15, 2024)
    Chapter IV. Reginald Featherbottom and the Audacious Dudley | Cairo (April 15, 2024)
    Chapter V. Reginald Featherbottom Befriends a German Spy | Cairo (May 15, 2024)
    Chapter VI. Reginald Featherbottom Visits the Berlin Zoological Garden | Berlin (June 15, 2024)

    Muslim Pilgrims Converge at Mount Arafat for Daylong Worship

    Voice of America
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    Muslim Pilgrims Converge at Mount Arafat for Daylong Worship

    Thousands of pilgrims walked to the mount through the predawn darkness. On the slopes of the rocky hill and the surrounding area, many raised their hands in worship with tears streaming down their faces.

    Photo: Masjidul Haraam, Makkah. Credit: Wiki Commons.

    Mount Arafat, Saudi Arabia. Following the footsteps of prophets beneath a burning sun, Muslims from around the world congregated Saturday at a sacred hill in Saudi Arabia for intense, daylong worship and reflection.

    The ritual at Mount Arafat, known as the hill of mercy, is considered the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is often the most memorable for pilgrims, who stand shoulder to shoulder, feet to feet, asking God for mercy, blessings, prosperity and good health. The mount is about twenty kilometers southeast of Mecca.

    “For sure it is something great. It is the best day for Muslims during the year, and the best feeling that anyone can experience,” Hussein Mohammed, an Egyptian pilgrim, said as he stood on the rocky slopes at dawn. “It is the best place for anyone hoping to be (here) on this day and at this moment.”

    It’s believed that Prophet Muhammad delivered his final speech, known as the Farewell Sermon, at the sacred mount 1,435 years ago. In the sermon, the prophet called for equality and unity among Muslims.

    Ali Osman, a Spanish pilgrim, was overwhelmed, as he stepped down the hill of mercy. He said he felt that he gained spiritual and physical strength at the sacred site.

    “The place, thank God, (gives) very good energy,” he said. “I came here, thank God. It is my first time. I hope to come again in the future.”

    Hajj is one of the largest religious gatherings on earth.

    The rituals officially started Friday when pilgrims moved from Mecca’s Grand Mosque to Mina, a desert plain just outside the city.

    Saudi authorities expect the number of pilgrims this year to exceed two million, approaching pre-coronavirus pandemic levels.

    The pilgrimage is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. All Muslims are required to make the five-day Hajj at least once in their lives if they are physically and financially able to make the demanding pilgrimage.

    The rituals largely commemorate the Quran’s accounts of Prophet Ibrahim, his son Prophet Ismail and Ismail’s mother Hajar — or Abraham and Ismael as they are named in the Bible.

    This year’s Hajj came against the backdrop of the raging war in the Gaza Strip between Israel and Hamas, which pushed the Middle East to the brink of a regional war between Israel and its allies on one side and Iran-backed militant groups on the other.

    Palestinians in the coastal enclave of Gaza were not able to travel to Mecca for Hajj this year because of the closure of the Rafah crossing in May, when Israel extended its ground offensive to the strip’s southern city of Rafah on the border with Egypt.

    By Al Jazeera English – Pilgrims cover Arafat’s roads, plains and mountain. Credit: Wikipedia.

    Staving off potential protests or chants about the war during the Hajj, Saudi authorities said they won’t tolerate politicizing the pilgrimage. Col. Talal Al-Shalhoub, a spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, told reporters Friday evening that the Saudi government “will not allow any attempt to turn the sacred sites (in Mecca) into an arena for mob chanting.”

    The time of year when the Hajj takes place varies, given that it is set for five days in the second week of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

    Most of the Hajj rituals are held outdoors with little if any shade. When it falls in the summer months, temperatures can soar to over 40 Celsius. The Health Ministry has cautioned that temperatures at the holy sites could reach 48 C and urged pilgrims to use umbrellas and drink more water to stay hydrated.

    Most of the pilgrims at Mount Arafat carried umbrellas, while others sat in the shadow of a few trees and buildings around the hill of mercy. And, as at Mina and the Grand Mosque, cooling stations on the roads leading to the mount and in its surrounding areas sprayed pilgrims with water to help fight the heat, which had already climbed to 47 C (117°F) at Mount Arafat, according to Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology.

    After Saturday’s worship in Mount Arafat, pilgrims will travel a few kilometers to a site known as Muzdalifa to collect pebbles that they will use in the symbolic stoning of pillars representing the devil back in Mina. Many walk, while others use buses.

    Pilgrims then return to Mina for three days, coinciding with the festive Eid al-Adha holiday, when financially able Muslims around the world slaughter livestock and distribute the meat to poor people. Afterward, they return to Mecca for a final circumambulation, known as Farewell Tawaf.

    Once the Hajj is over, men are expected to shave their heads, and women to snip a lock of hair in a sign of renewal. Most of the pilgrims then leave Mecca for the city of Medina, some 340 kilometers away, to pray in Prophet Muhammad’s tomb, the Sacred Chamber.

    The tomb is part of the prophet’s mosque, which is one of the three holiest sites in Islam, along with the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

    Hajj is a notorious chokepoint for crowds. In 2015, several thousands of pilgrims were crushed to death in a crowd surge. Saudi authorities never offered a final death toll.

    In recent years, Saudi authorities have made significant efforts to improve access and avoid deadly accidents. Tens of thousands of security personnel were deployed across the city, especially around the holy sites, to control the crowds, and the government built a high-speed rail link to ferry people between holy sites in the city, which has been jammed with traffic during the Hajj season. Pilgrims enter through special electronic gates.

    Saudi authorities have also expanded and renovated the Grand Mosque where cranes are seen around some of its seven minarets as construction was underway in the holy site.

    Muslim Pilgrims Converge at Mount Arafat for Daylong Worship (June 15, 2024)

    Jim Luce Writes on Faith, Religion and Cults

    Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Demolition Marks End of Era

    John Laing
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    Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Demolition Marks End of Era

    Photo: The front side of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, located in Parkland, Florida. Credit: Wiki Commons.

    Parkland, Florida. Almost six years after the deadliest high school shooting in the United States, a poignant and long-anticipated step towards healing is underway as the symbolic “time capsule” holding the community’s collective pain is being demolished.

    On Friday morning, demolition crews began dismantling the three-story school building at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. This building, which witnessed unimaginable tragedy, is being carefully taken down, piece by piece.

    The somber day was attended by parents and family members of the seventeen victims who lost their lives on that fateful Valentine’s Day in 2018. Their presence underscored the emotional weight of this moment, marking a new chapter in their journey of grief and remembrance.

    Unlike some demolitions that are executed via dramatic implosions, the dismantling of this building will be a deliberate and prolonged process. Officials estimate that it will take at least a week, if not longer, to complete the careful deconstruction.

    For many in the community, the desire to see the building removed has been strong for years. However, various legal and procedural hurdles have delayed the demolition. Initially, the building was preserved as a crime scene, critical for the investigation and subsequent trial of the shooter. Later, it was again preserved for a reenactment as part of a lawsuit against a deputy who was acquitted last year for not confronting the shooter during the attack.

    The preservation of the building through these legal processes was necessary but painful, keeping a tangible reminder of the tragedy in place. With the conclusion of these legal proceedings, the way was finally cleared to begin the demolition.

    This step towards removing the building is seen by many as a crucial move towards healing and closure. The demolition symbolizes not just the end of a physical structure, but a move towards the community’s emotional recovery. The meticulous process of taking down the building reflects the careful and respectful approach needed to address the collective trauma experienced by the Parkland community.

    As the demolition progresses, it serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Parkland community. It is a moment to honor the memories of those lost and to reaffirm the commitment to building a safer future.

    Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Demolition Marks End of Era (June 15, 2024)

    #ParklandStrong, #MSDStrong, #NeverAgain, #GunReformNow, #SchoolSafety, #CommunityHealing, #ParklandShooting, #MarjoryStonemanDouglas, #DemolitionDay, #EndGunViolence

    TAGS: Parkland Shooting, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, School Safety, Gun Violence, Community Healing, Demolition, MSD Strong, Never Again, School Shooting, Florida, Crime Scene, Legal Delays

    Jim Luce Writes on Gun Violence

    Erik Bottcher: Trailblazing LGBTQ+ Leader and Fierce Advocate for Justice

    Jim Luce
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    Erik Bottcher: Trailblazing LGBTQ+ Leader and Fierce Advocate for Justice

    Photo: NYC Council Member Erik Bottcher.

    New York, N.Y. As a gay man and longtime survivor of HIV/AIDS, and someone deeply committed to amplifying voices that drive positive change, I have long admired Erik Bottcher‘s unwavering dedication to uplifting marginalized communities and fighting for social justice. From his early days as a grassroots organizer to his recent election to the New York City Council, Erik’s journey has been a testament to the power of perseverance, empathy, and an unwavering belief in equality.

    I first noticed Erik during his tenure as the Chief of Staff for the New York City Council’s LGBTQ Caucus. Even then, his passion for advocating for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community was palpable. He approached every challenge with a strategic mindset, leveraging his deep understanding of the legislative process to effect meaningful change.

    What struck me most, however, was Erik’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He possessed a rare gift for listening, truly hearing the concerns and experiences of those he served. This empathy, coupled with his sharp intellect and tireless work ethic, made him a formidable force in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality.

    Erik’s commitment to social justice extended far beyond the LGBTQ+ community. As the former Chief of Staff for New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson, he played a pivotal role in advancing progressive policies that addressed issues such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and environmental sustainability. His intersectional approach to advocacy recognized that true equality cannot be achieved until all marginalized groups are uplifted and empowered.

    A Trailblazer in LGBTQ+ Representation

    Erik’s election to the New York City Council in 2021 was a historic moment, making him one of the first openly gay men to represent the city’s West Side. But for Erik, this achievement was not merely a personal victory; it was a powerful symbol of the progress made by the LGBTQ+ community and a reminder of the work that still lies ahead.

    In his role as a City Council member, Erik has continued to be a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, championing initiatives that promote inclusivity, combat discrimination, and provide essential resources to the community. His unwavering commitment to representation has inspired countless individuals, reminding them that their voices matter and that their identities should be celebrated, not suppressed.

    A World Citizen Committed to Global Impact

    While Erik’s impact has been profoundly felt in New York City, his vision for a more just and equitable world extends far beyond the boundaries of his district. As a global citizen, he has leveraged his platform to raise awareness about issues that transcend borders, such as the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and the promotion of human rights for all.

    Through his work with organizations like GMHC (formerly Gay Men’s Health Crisis), Erik has been a tireless advocate for increased access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and support services. He understands that this pandemic has disproportionately affected marginalized communities, and his efforts have been instrumental in addressing the systemic barriers that perpetuate health disparities.

    Moreover, Erik’s commitment to human rights has inspired him to use his voice to amplify the struggles of oppressed communities around the world. He has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights movements globally, recognizing that the fight for equality is a shared battle that transcends borders and cultures.

    A Legacy of Empowerment and Inspiration

    As I reflect on Erik Bottcher’s remarkable journey, I am struck by the profound impact he has had on countless lives. Through his unwavering commitment to social justice, his ability to build bridges across diverse communities, and his unwavering belief in the power of representation, he has inspired a generation of changemakers to embrace their authentic selves and fight for a more equitable world.

    Erik’s story is a testament to the transformative power of activism, perseverance, and a deep-rooted belief in the inherent dignity of all human beings. He has shown us that change is possible, that barriers can be broken, and that the voices of the marginalized can and must be amplified.

    As Erik continues to shape the discourse on issues that matter most, I have no doubt that his legacy will endure, inspiring future generations of leaders to carry the torch of justice and equality forward. For in Erik Bottcher, we see not just a trailblazer and a world citizen, but a living embodiment of the values that make our world a better, more inclusive place for all.

    Erik Bottcher: Trailblazing LGBTQ+ Leader and Fierce Advocate for Justice (June 15, 2024)

    #LGBTQ #Activism #CityCouncil #Trailblazer #SocialJustice #Equality #Representation

    Tags: New York City, LGBTQ Rights, City Council, Activism, Community Organizing, HIV/AIDS Advocacy, Erik Bottcher

    Jim Luce Writes on Politics

    Alexandria Villaseñor: Youth Climate Activist for Sustainability

    Jim Luce
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    Alexandria Villaseñor: Youth Climate Activist for Sustainability

    Photo: Alexandria Villaseñor addresses U.N. Observance of International Women’s Day 2020, U.N. General Assembly Hall in New York. Credit: U.N. Women.

    As a thought leader and global citizen, Alexandria Villaseñor embodies the resilience and determination necessary to confront the climate crisis head-on. We wholeheartedly support Alexandria for her unwavering commitment to environmental activism and her remarkable ability to inspire change on a global scale.

    New York, N.Y. Driven by a profound sense of urgency and a deep concern for the future of our planet, Alexandria Villaseñor [Luce Index™ Score: pending] is on the move. Her journey into climate activism began at a young age.

    At just 13, she became one of the leading voices of the youth climate movement, founding Earth Uprising, an organization dedicated to empowering young people to take action against climate change. Her leadership and advocacy have since galvanized a generation to demand immediate and significant action from world leaders.

    One of Alexandria’s most notable actions was her weekly climate strike outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City, which she began in December 2018. Inspired by Greta Thunberg’s school strike for climate, Alexandria’s steadfast protests, regardless of weather conditions, drew international attention and underscored the critical nature of the climate emergency. Her dedication demonstrated the power of individual action and its potential to spark widespread change.

    Alexandria’s influence extends beyond her activism on the streets.

    She has become a powerful speaker and advocate, addressing global forums such as the United Nations Climate Action Summit and the World Economic Forum. Her articulate and passionate speeches resonate with audiences worldwide, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change to combat climate change and protect future generations.

    As a global citizen, Alexandria’s work highlights the interconnectedness of the climate crisis and social justice issues.

    She advocates for policies that not only address environmental degradation but also ensure equity and justice for marginalized communities disproportionately affected by climate change. Her holistic approach to activism is a testament to her understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of the challenges we face.

    Supporting Alexandria Villaseñor means standing with a generation of young leaders who are fiercely committed to securing a livable planet for all. Her courage, vision, and relentless advocacy inspire hope and action in the fight against climate change. We are proud to support Alexandria Villaseñor and her tireless efforts to create a sustainable and just world.

    Alexandria Villaseñor: Youth Climate Activist for Sustainability (June 13, 2024)

    #AlexandriaVillaseñor #ClimateAction #YouthActivism #GlobalCitizen #JimLuceSupportsAlexandria #EarthUprising #EnvironmentalJustice #ClimateStrike #SustainableFuture #Leadership #ClimateEmergency

    Jim Luce Writes on Young Global Leadership

    Jeremy Corbyn: Global Champion for Peace and Social Justice

    Jim Luce
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    Jeremy Corbyn: Global Champion for Peace and Social Justice

    Photo: Jeremy Corbyn.

    Throughout his career, Jeremy Corbyn has been a vocal opponent of unjust wars and military interventions, advocating instead for diplomatic solutions and global cooperation. His leadership in the anti-war movement and his support for the rights of Palestinians and other oppressed peoples highlight his dedication to a just and peaceful world.

    London, U.K. As a thought leader and global citizen, Jeremy Corbyn [Luce Index™ Score: pending] has consistently championed the causes of social justice, peace, and equality, making him a beacon of hope for progressive movements worldwide. We support Jeremy for his unwavering dedication to these principles and his tireless efforts to create a fairer, more compassionate world.

    Jeremy’s political career spans several decades, during which he has remained a steadfast advocate for the marginalized and oppressed. As the Leader of the Labour Party in the U.K. from 2015 to 2020, he reinvigorated the party with bold policies aimed at addressing economic inequality, expanding public services, and protecting workers’ rights. His vision for a society that prioritizes the needs of the many over the interests of the few resonated deeply with millions of people.

    One of Jeremy’s most significant contributions is his commitment to peace and international solidarity.

    Jeremy’s focus on environmental sustainability is another reason we admire him. He has consistently called for transformative action to address the climate crisis, including investments in renewable energy, green jobs, and sustainable infrastructure. His Green Industrial Revolution plan was a cornerstone of his leadership, aiming to tackle climate change while creating a fairer economy.

    In addition to his policy achievements, Jeremy’s personal integrity and humility have endeared him to supporters around the world.

    Despite facing significant opposition and media scrutiny, he has remained committed to his principles, demonstrating the kind of leadership that prioritizes people over power. His ability to inspire and mobilize grassroots movements is a testament to his enduring impact on progressive politics.

    Supporting Jeremy Corbyn means endorsing a vision of a world where everyone has the oppor

    Jeremy Corbyn: Global Champion for Peace and Social Justice (June 12, 2023)

    #JeremyCorbyn #ProgressiveLeadership #SocialJustice #PeaceAndSolidarity #ClimateAction #GlobalCitizen #JimLuceSupportsCorbyn #WorkersRights #EconomicEquality #SustainableFuture

    Jim Luce Writes on Global Politics

    Anti-Muslim Hate Groups in U.S. Surge Back into Spotlight

    Voice of America
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    Anti-Muslim Hate Groups in U.S. Surge Back into Spotlight

    Photo: Masjid Pogung Dalangan on Unsplash.

    Washington, D.C. Once seemingly fading into obscurity, anti-Muslim hate groups in the United States have surged back into the spotlight in recent months, reinvigorated by the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

    Many of these groups, such as Jihad Watch and ACT for America, emerged in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks on the U.S. and thrived on public fears of terrorism. But as those fears waned in recent years, so did the groups’ sway. Some disbanded, while others gravitated to other hot-button issues.

    From a peak of 114 in 2017, their number dropped to a mere 34 last year, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center, a nonprofit that tracks hate groups.

    In early 2023, “Islamophobia was down to a slow trickle,” SPLC senior research analyst Caleb Kieffer said.

    Then came the October 7 Hamas assault on Israel, which claimed about 1,200 lives and triggered a massive Israeli military response in Gaza.

    Photo: Muslims praying\in Dubai. The congregation has spilled onto the road outside of the mosque. Credit: Levi Meir Clancy / Unsplash.

    Anti-Muslim groups that had “opportunistically” seized on divisive issues, such as critical race theory and LGBTQ-inclusive policies, swung back into action.

    “These anti-Muslim groups went right back to their core messaging,” Kieffer said in an interview with VOA. “They’ve been going hard on the rhetoric since October last year.”

    Take ACT for America. Founded in 2007 by Brigitte Gabriel, a Lebanese American political activist and self-described “survivor of terrorism,” it grew into one of the country’s leading anti-Muslim organizations.

    At its peak, the group had more than 50 active chapters, each counted as a separate hate group by the SPLC. But in recent years, most of those chapters either shut down or shifted into other areas, leaving ACT for America with just eight on SPLC’s most recent list.

    According to the SPLC, ACT for America embraced a “nativist tone” before October 7, circulating, among other things, a petition calling to “Stop the Taxpayer Funded Border Invasion.”

    After October 7, the group launched another petition more in line with its agenda and with a call by former U.S. President Donald Trump to stop admitting Palestinian refugees from Gaza.

    Warning her followers about homegrown jihadi terror, Gabriel, a staunch Trump supporter, began peddling her bestselling anti-Muslim book, Because They Hate: A Survivor of Islamic Terror Warns America, in exchange for a $25 donation.

    In a video titled “Wake Up America” in October, she claimed, “Hamas has a large network of cells spreading all across America,” from Laurel, Maryland, to Tucson, Arizona.

    Other groups that had also latched onto contentious issues similarly pivoted back to their core agenda.

    Jihad Watch, a website run by prominent anti-Muslim figure Robert Spencer, published an article last October claiming, “We’re in a war between savages and civilization. Everything else is a detail.”

    Eight days later, an affiliated political website called FrontPage Magazine ran a piece titled “It’s Islam, Stupid,” arguing that everything Hamas did “has been done by Muslims throughout history and is still being practiced today.”

    FrontPage Magazine is published by the David Horowitz Freedom Center, another leading anti-Muslim group. Jihad Watch is a project of the center.

    ACT for America, Jihad Watch and the David Horowitz Freedom Center are part of what experts describe as a well-funded, close-knit anti-Muslim industry, with each group playing a distinct role in the ecosystem.

    With chapters across the country, Washington-based ACT for America provides the “grassroots muscle” to the movement, Kieffer said. The Center for Security Policy serves as its think tank, he said.

    The SPLC-designated groups appear on other hate lists. Several SPLC-branded groups contacted by VOA condemned their designation.

    In a statement to VOA, a spokesperson for ACT for America rejected the “anti-Muslim” label, saying the organization has “always welcomed and included members of all faiths,” including Muslims, and hosted Muslim keynote speakers at its conferences.

    ACT for America works “on a broad range of issues, none of which are anti-Muslim,” the spokesperson said. “As a matter of fact, since the defeat of ISIS and al-Qaida between 2018 and 2024, you didn’t hear a blurb from ACT for America about radical Islam.”

    In response to a VOA query, Jihad Watch’s Spencer accused the SPLC of smearing and defaming “organizations that oppose its far-left political agenda by lumping them in with the likes of the KKK and neo-Nazis.”

    In a brief interview with VOA, J. Michael Waller, a senior analyst for strategy at the Center for Security Policy, called the designation “slander,” saying it was tied to his group’s criticism of the Iranian government and the Muslim Brotherhood.

    Kieffer defended the SPLC’s methodology, saying it only designates groups that “vilify” and “demonize” people because of their race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity.

    The SPLC defines anti-Muslim hate groups as organizations that “broadly defame Islam and traffic in conspiracy theories of Muslims being a subversive threat to the nation.”

    Not every anti-Muslim hate group has stood the test of time. In recent years, dozens of ACT for America chapters have closed.

    The ACT for America spokesperson said most of its member groups have “turned into digital chapters meeting via zoom or other technology platforms.”

    Last year, an anti-refugee and anti-Muslim blog called Refugee Resettlement Watch became inactive and was dropped from SPLC’s list of hate groups.

    Another well-known anti-Muslim group called Understanding the Threat announced last year it was shutting down. The group was operated by a former FBI agent known for spreading anti-Muslim conspiracy theories.

    Other groups have rebranded. One former ACT for America chapter now operates as AlertAmerica.News, according to SPLC. Its focus ranges from “strengthening national security” to “fighting communism and American Marxism.”

    Kieffer said while the group’s central focus may have shifted away from Islamophobia, it continues to invite well-known, anti-Muslim speakers to its events.

    With the war in Gaza still raging, the resurgence in Islamophobia remains unabated, Kieffer said. But that’s likely to change in the run-up to the presidential election in November.

    “I imagine that we’re going to slowly see a decline again as these groups start to push other issues,” he said.

    Brian Levin, a criminologist and hate crime researcher, noted that anti-Muslim hate crimes have surged in recent years, even as the number of hate groups has dwindled.

    That’s because hatred has found a new home in the mainstream, rendering niche groups such as Islamophobic outfits increasingly obsolete, he said.

    “The bottom line is, the way we associate to express and amplify hatred has changed,” Levin said in an interview with VOA. “Up-and-coming bigots of all sorts will find an array of xenophobic bigotry and conspiracism within general mainstream platforms.”

    North Koreans Face Lives Devoid of Hope, U.N. Rights Chief Volker Türk Says

    Voice of America
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    North Koreans Face Lives Devoid of Hope, U.N. Rights Chief Volker Türk Says

    Photo: United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk. Credit: U.N. Photo/Violaine Martin.

    “A stifling, claustrophobic environment, where life is a daily struggle devoid of hope.”

    New York, N.Y. The U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights delivered a bleak assessment of the situation in North Korea on Wednesday, a decade after an in-depth report shed light on severe and widespread abuses in the country.

    “Today, the DPRK is a country sealed off from the world,” Volker Türk told a special briefing of the U.N. Security Council that North Korea’s ambassador did not attend. “A stifling, claustrophobic environment, where life is a daily struggle devoid of hope.”

    DPRK is the abbreviation for North Korea’s official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

    Türk expressed concern about the regime’s tight control over the movements of its citizens, including the ability to leave the country. Most North Koreans cannot obtain the required government permission to leave, and those who attempt to escape face torture, labor camps or death if they fail.

    Image: Proganda of North Korea. Credit: Mark Fahey / Wiki Commons.

    “Leaving your own country is not a crime – on the contrary, it is a human right, recognized by international law,” he said by video from his office in Geneva.

    He said repression of the freedom of expression has also worsened with the enforcement of laws forbidding people from consuming foreign media or culture, such as South Korean television dramas or K-pop music.

    “Put simply, people in the DPRK are at risk of death for merely watching or sharing a foreign television series,” the human rights chief said.

    He urged Pyongyang to halt the use of the death penalty throughout its legal system and move toward its complete abolition.

    Perhaps even more worrying, is the situation of food security in North Korea.

    “Every single person interviewed by my office has mentioned this in one form or another,” Türk said. “In the words of one: “It’s very easy to become fragile and malnourished because there is nothing to eat.”

    WFP Reports 40% of North Koreans, nearly 11 million people, are undernourished.

    The World Food Program says more than 40% of North Koreans, nearly 11 million people, are undernourished. Many suffer from chronic malnutrition because of a lack of essential nutrients, especially those living outside major cities. Children are particularly affected, with 18% suffering stunting and impaired development because of chronic malnutrition.

    The high commissioner also expressed concern about Pyongyang’s use of forced labor, including overseas. He noted that workers they have interviewed described often performing work that is physically dangerous and they endured extreme levels of surveillance.

    Western nations accuse North Korea of using these laborers’ wages to help fund their illicit nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs.

    Türk said there have been some recent “positive signs” from North Korea in their engagement with the international human rights system, but he did not explain what that included.

    Defector speaks

    Gumhyok Kim, 33, grew up in privilege in North Korea. His family were Kim regime loyalists and so in 2010, he was able to leave the country and study in Beijing.

    “At the age of 19, I saw a world for the first time that was different from everything I had learned,” he told the council. “In particular, the internet enabled me to learn about my country’s history and realize the horrific truth of North Korea that had been hidden from me.”

    He said his feeling of loyalty to the Kim family that has ruled North Korea for three generations quickly turned to one of betrayal, and he began to connect with other North Korean students in Beijing to discuss the situation.

    In the winter of 2011, the North Korean authorities discovered their activities, and he fled China to South Korea to avoid arrest.

    “I survived and found freedom. But that freedom had come at a great cost,” he said. “It has already been 12 years since I defected, but I still have no contact with my family.”

    He appealed directly to North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un, saying nuclear weapons and repression are not the way to maintain leadership.

    “Allow North Koreans to live in freedom. Allow them their basic rights so they can live full and happy lives,” Kim said. “Turn away from the nuclear weapons threat and return your country to the family of nations so all North Korean people may lead prosperous lives.”

    Kim and his South Korean-born wife chronicle their married life on YouTube, where they show what life is like in Seoul. He said he is now a father to a 1-year-old, and he hopes one day to take his son to a changed North Korea.

    Council inaction

    The U.N. Security Council is divided over the situation in North Korea. The last time its 15 members agreed on sanctions for the regime’s nuclear and ballistic missile activity was in 2017. Since then, the geopolitical landscape has changed, the council has become more fractured, and action on the North Korean file has become more difficult.

    Both China and Russia objected to Wednesday’s human rights briefing, saying such issues do not belong in the Security Council. Russia called for a procedural vote, but lost, as only China joined it in voting against holding the meeting and 12 council members supported it. Mozambique abstained. There are no vetoes in procedural votes.

    U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

    “The efforts by both Russia and China to block this meeting today is another effort to support the DPRK, and is also emboldening their actions,” U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said.

    Venezuela’s envoy made a statement to reporters outside the council during the meeting on behalf of the “Group of Friends in Defense of Charter of the United Nations,” rejecting the convening of a human rights-specific council meeting. The group of 18 like-minded countries includes Russia, China, North Korea, Belarus, Iran, Cuba and Syria.

    The council meeting was requested by the United States and Britain, along with Japan and South Korea, who both currently hold non-permanent council seats.

    “The DPRK nuclear and human rights issues are like two sides of the same coin, and thus, need to be addressed comprehensively,” South Korean Ambassador JoonKook Hwang said.

    He urged the council to regularly address the human rights situation. Until last August, the last time the council discussed North Korea’s human rights situation also was in 2017.

    A 2014 Commission of Inquiry report found that North Korea’s rights violations had risen to the level of crimes against humanity. The panel said the regime had used “extermination, murder, enslavement, torture, imprisonment, rape, forced abortions and other sexual violence, persecution on political, religious, racial and gender grounds, the forcible transfer of populations, the enforced disappearance of persons and the inhumane act of knowingly causing prolonged starvation.”

    J. Luce Foundation’s Spotlight on Young Global Leadership

    Liz Webster
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    J. Luce Foundation’s Spotlight on Young Global Leadership

    The J. Luce Foundation, publisher of The Stewardship Report, focuses on supporting Young Global Leadership. Below is a listing of thought leaders and global citizens representing Generations X, Y and Z.

    Generation Z (iGen): Born 1997-2010

    • May 18, 2005: Alexandria Villaseñor (Latina American climate activist and founder of Earth Uprising)
    • Feb. 19, 2004: Millie Bobby Brown (British actress known for science-fiction–horror TV series Stranger Things)
    • Jan. 3, 2003: Greta Thunberg (Swedish environmental activist)
    • Jan. 31, 2003: Hannah Alper (Jewish Canadian youth activist focused on the environment)
    • May 19, 2003: “JoJo” Siwa (American singer, dancer, and influential LGBTQ+ youth icon first appeared on television with her mother)
    • Nov. 8, 2000: Roy Wang (Wang Yuan)(Chinese singer-songwriter, television host and actor; UNICEF ambassador since 2018)
    • Oct. 31, 2000: Willow Smith (American singer)
    • Oct. 6, 2000: Jazz Jennings (American transgender YouTube personality, television personality, and LGBT rights activist)
    • April 12, 2000: David Hogg (American gun control activist; survivor of Stoneman Douglas High School shooting)
    • Dec. 31, 1999: Hunter Schafer (American transgender model and LGBTQ+ activist)
    • Nov. 11, 1999: X González (Cuban-American activist, advocate for gun control; survivor of Stoneman Douglas High School shooting)
    • April 12, 1999: Muzoon Almellehan (Syrian refugee empowering global youth through education)
    • July 24, 1998: Bindi Sue Irwin (Australian television personality, conservationist, and zookeeper)
    • June 16, 1998: Eugenie Carys de Silva (Sri Lankan-British-American child prodigy who graduated from Harvard at 13)
    • July 12, 1997: Malala Yousafzai (Pakistani activist who survived Taliban acid attack)

    Generation Y (Millennials): Born 1981-1996

    Frieda Pinto (b. 1984)
    • Jan. 18, 1996: Alexandra Scott (American pediatric cancer patient who raised millions for research)
    • Sept. 1, 1996: Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman (American actress and singer)
    • Jan. 6, 1996: Seal-Bin Han (Korean-American founder and CEO of Diamond Hook)
    • Nov. 20, 1995: Chris Rim (Korean-American founder and CEO of Command Education)
    • Sept. 18, 1993: Patrick Shriver Schwarzenegger (American actor and activist)
    • Aug. 1, 1993: Tomi Adeyemi (Nigerian American author)
    • May 18, 1993: Jessica Watson (Australian sailor)
    • June 29, 1992: Bix Luce (Thai-American vice president of the J. Luce Foundation)
    • Sept. 5, 1990: Kim Yuna (S. Korean Olympic gold medalist & UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador)
    • April 23, 1990: Dev Patel (Indian-British actor)
    • Oct. 13, 1989: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (Puerto Rican-American member of Congress/NY)
    • May 4, 1989: Greg Casar (Mexican-American member of Congress from Texas)
    • Aug. 3, 1988: Amadéus Leopold (born Hanbin Yoo, Korean-American violinist)
    • Nov. 26, 1987: Summer Lee (American member of Congress form Pennsylvania)
    • Jan. 18, 1986: Eugene Lee Yang (Chinese-American filmmaker, actor and author)
    • Nov. 7, 1986: Maggie Doyne (American entrepreneur founder of BlinkNow Foundation)
    • Feb. 11, 1986: Gabriel Boric (president of Chile)
    • Oct. 27, 1985: Alexander Soros (American investor and philanthropist)
    • Aug. 12, 1985: Rachel Parent (Canadian health and nutrition activist)
    • Aug. 12, 1984: Erik Bottcher (New York City Council member)
    • Oct. 18, 1984: Freida Pinto (Indian-American actor)
    • May 14, 1984: Mark Zuckerberg (American Facebook founder)
    • June 2, 1983: Delia Ramirez (Guatemalan-American member of Congress from Illinois)
    • Jan. 1, 1982: Sam Bassett (American artist)
    • Jan. 19, 1982: Pete Buttigieg (American politician. First openly gay Transportation Secretary)
    • Oct. 4, 1982: Ilhan Omar (Somali-American member of Congress from Minnesota)
    • July 18, 1982: Priyanka Chopra (Indian and Hollywood star and social activist)
    Alexander Soros (b. 1985)

    Generation X: Born 1965-1980

    • Sept. 5, 1980: Pita “Tim” Limjaroenrat (opposition leader of Thailand)
    • Feb. 27, 1980: Chelsea Clinton (American writer)
    • July 26, 1980: Jacinda Ardern (former Prime Minister of New Zealand
    • Sept. 5, 1979: Ayaan Ali Khan (Indian classical musician)
    • July 21, 1979: Banaue Miclat (Chinese-American actor and teacher)
    • Jan. 25, 1978: Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Ukrainian President)
    • June 5, 1978: Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla (Indian-American author)
    • Jan. 13, 1977: Orlando Bloom (advocate for children and environmental preservation)
    • July 24, 1976: Rashida Tlaib (Palestinian-American lawyer and member of Congress from Michigan)
    • July 21, 1976: Cori Bush (American nurse, pastor, and member of Congress from Missouri)
    • May 11, 1976: Jumaane Williams (Grenadian-American New York City Public Advocate)
    • April 1, 1976: Jamaal Anthony Bowman (American member of Congress from New York)
    • Sept. 10, 1975: Dionysia-Theodora Avgrinopoulou (member of Greek Parliament)
    • May 2, 1975: David Beckham (English soccer star, humanitarian and global advocate)
    • Jan. 1, 1974: Lucas Welch (founder, Soliya; American social entrepreneur)
    • Feb. 3, 1974: Ayanna Pressley (African-American member of Congress from Massachusetts)
    • March 6, 1972: Havana Marks (British documentation)
    • Jan. 1, 1971: Fasil Amdetsion (Ethiopian attorney and member of government)
    • Aug. 23, 1971: Gretchen Whitmer (Governor of Michigan)
    • May 3, 1971: Damon Dash (American entrepreneur/record executive, founder of Roc-A-Fella Records) 
    • Dec. 25, 1971: Justin Trudeau (Canadian politician serving as 23rd prime minister of Canada)
    • June 19, 1970: Rahul Gandhi (member of Indian Parliament)
    • August 4, 1970: Hakeem Jeffries (African-American member of Congress from Brooklyn, New York)
    • Aug. 4, 1970: Hakeem Jeffries (American member of Congress from Brooklyn, New York)
    • May 8, 1970: Naomi Klein (Canadian writer and social activist)
    • Oct. 17, 1969: Wyclef Jean (Haitian-American singer and music producer)
    • Dec. 31, 1968: Junot Díaz (Dominican-American author)
    • May 30, 1968:Stephan Said (Arabic: ستيفن سعيد; Palestinian-American musician and activist)
    • May 1, 1965: Margarita Cedeño de Fernández (former vice president of the Dominican Republic)
    Jim Luce Writes on Young Global Leadership

    Gabriel Boric: Millennial President Redefining Chile’s Future

    Jim Luce
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    Gabriel Boric: Millennial President Redefining Chile’s Future

    From Student Activist to President: Gabriel Boric’s Journey to Transform Chile

    New York, N.Y. — As a young, progressive leader, Gabriel Boric embodies the hopes and aspirations of a new generation yearning for change in Chile. His journey from student activist to the nation’s president at just 36 years old is nothing short of remarkable.

    I admire Boric’s unwavering commitment to social justice, feminism, and environmental protection – values that resonate deeply with me as a global citizen. His cabinet, comprising a majority of women in key positions, is a powerful statement on gender equality and inclusivity. Boric’s determination to dismantle Chile’s neoliberal economic model and build a more equitable society is a bold and necessary step towards addressing the country’s stark inequalities.

    Gabriel Boric giving his victory speech at 2021 Chile Presidential Election. Gabriel Boric campaign via Wikipedia.

    What truly sets Boric apart is his ability to bridge divides and unite diverse voices under a shared vision of progress.

    From his pivotal role in negotiating the 2019 constitutional referendum to his outreach to moderate voters during the election campaign, he has demonstrated a rare talent for consensus-building. His condemnation of authoritarianism in Latin America and ties with progressive leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Lula da Silva underscore his commitment to democratic values and global cooperation.

    As a young leader with a deep connection to the arts and literature, Boric represents a refreshing departure from traditional politics. His tattoos inspired by the landscapes of his hometown and his refusal to wear ties symbolize a break from convention and a desire to connect with the people he serves. With his progressive agenda, inclusive approach, and authentic leadership style, Boric has the potential to be a transformative figure not just for Chile, but for the entire region and the world.

    Gabriel Boric: Millennial President Redefining Chile’s Future (June 12, 2024)

    #GabrielBoric #ChilePresident #MillennialLeader #SocialJustice #FeminismInPolitics #EnvironmentalActivism

    TAGS: Gabriel Boric, Millennial President, Santiago, Millennial Leader, Young Global Leader,
    Chile, Social Justice, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Lula da Silva, Progressive leader, La Moneda

    Jim Luce Writes on Politics
    Jim Luce Writes on Latin America’s ‘ABC’ Powers

    Gaza: U.N. Security Council Backs U.S., Calls for ‘Immediate Ceasefire

    United Nations
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    Gaza: U.N. Security Council Backs U.S., Calls for ‘Immediate Ceasefire

    A view of the U.N. Security Council as members vote in favour of the draft resolution on the situation in Gaza. U.N. Photo/Eskinder Debebe.

    The U.N. Security Council on Monday adopted a resolution aimed at reaching a comprehensive ceasefire deal in three phases to end the war in Gaza, with US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield telling members “today, we voted for peace.”

    New York, N.Y. The United States-drafted text calls for Hamas to accept a ceasefire proposal announced on 31 May by President Joe Biden that has already been accepted by Israel.

    Adopted by a large majority with 14 votes in favour and Russia abstaining – choosing not to exercise its veto power – the resolution also urges both parties to fully implement the terms of the proposal “without delay and without condition.”

    Russia’s Permanent Representative told the Council after the vote there was a lack of clarity over what exactly Israel had signed up to in the resolution, leaving too many questions unanswered for Moscow to offer its support.

    ‘Durable end’ to the war in sight 

    President Biden described the deal as “not just a ceasefire that would inevitably be fragile and temporary” but one that would provide a “durable end to the war”.

    He added that the terms of the deal had been transmitted by Qatar to the leadership of Hamas.

    Signaling a hopeful shift in diplomacy, the US-led initiative brought both Israel and the Palestinian mission on board, avoiding the vetoes from permanent members – including the US itself – which have stalled action on several of the resolutions which have failed to pass since the 7 October terror attacks and kidnappings began the cycle of violence.

    Three-phase approach

    The motion envisages a three phase approach to ensure a lasting and comprehensive end to the fighting.

    Phase one includes an “immediate, full, and complete ceasefire with the release of hostages including women, the elderly and the wounded, the return of the remains of some hostages who have been killed, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners”.

    It calls for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from “populated areas” of Gaza, the return of Palestinians to their homes and neighbourhoods throughout the enclave, including in the north, as well as the safe and effective distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale. 

    Permanent end to hostilities

    Phase two would see a permanent end to hostilities “in exchange for the release of all other hostages still in Gaza, and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza”.

    In phase three, “a major multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza” would begin and the remains of any deceased hostages still in the Strip would be returned to Israel.  

    The Council also underlined the proposal’s provision that if negotiations take longer than six weeks for phase one, the ceasefire will continue as long as negotiations continue.

    No territorial change

    In the resolution, the Security Council rejects any attempt at demographic or territorial change in the Gaza Strip, including any actions that reduce the territory of the enclave. 

    The text also reiterates the Council’s “unwavering commitment” to the vision of the two-State solution where two democratic States, Israel and Palestine, live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions.

    “In this regard stresses the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority,” the resolution added.

    Hamas must accept deal: US

    The fighting could stop today if Hamas agrees to the deal now endorsed by the Security Council, said US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

    Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield of the United States addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

    United States Representative. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe.

    Hamas should now see clearly that the international community is united, “united behind a deal that will save lives and help Palestinian civilians in Gaza start to rebuild and heal. United behind a deal that will reunite hostages with their families after eight months in captivity.”

    Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield said there was now an opportunity to chart a new course and the US will help ensure that Israel lives up to its obligations, “assuming that Hamas accepts the deal.”

    Today is the fourth Security Council resolution making clear that the only way to end the cycle of violence “is through a political settlement”, she added.

    Algeria: ‘Palestinian lives matter’

    Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama said that his compatriots “deeply feel” the suffering of Palestinians and with their own history of struggle against colonial occupation, “fully understand and support” the Palestinian people’s legitimate and just demands.

    “As a free and dignified people, the Palestinians will never accept living under occupation. They will never abdicate their fight for liberation,” he said.

    Stressing that Algeria’s sole guiding principle has been to save Palestinian lives, he said that his country cannot remain silent in the face of collective punishment against Palestinian people.

    “Palestinian lives matter,” he stressed.

    He said Algeria voted in favour of the draft because it represents a step towards an immediate and lasting ceasefire. “This text is not perfect, but it offers a glimmer of hope to the Palestinians as the alternative is continued killing and suffering…We voted for this text to give diplomacy a chance”, he added.

    “It is time to halt the killing.”

    Permanent ceasefire is key: China

    China’s Ambassador Fu Cong said they have voted in favour of the resolution but there needs to be a permanent ceasefire which has been at the core of the international community’s concerns.

    Ending the bombardment and offensive is also the most pressing need for civilians under fire in Gaza.

    He stressed that all Security Council resolutions are binding, and today’s must be no different.

    All resolutions have to be implemented in an efficient and constructive way, he added.

    Russia: No clarity to ‘so-called deal’

    Russian Ambassador and Permanent Representative Vassily Nebenzia said his country had abstained due to several outstanding concerns.

    Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia of the Russian Federation addresses the UN Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

    U.N. Photo/Eskinder Debebe.

    “From the very outset of the military escalation, we have consistently and unwaveringly advocated for the imperative for a permanent ceasefire regime, including in order to release the hostages and remedy the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip,” he said.

    “We have a whole of host of questions about the American draft resolution, whereby the Council welcomes some deal – the ultimate outlines of which are not known to anyone perhaps except the mediators,” he said.

    Although the resolution calls on Hamas to accept the “so called deal” there is no clarity on the official agreement of Israel “as it is written in the resolution.”

    Noting the public statements of Israeli leaders indicating that the war would continue until Hamas is completely defeated, he asked “what specifically has Israel agreed to?”

    The parameters of this “deal” are “vague” and the Council should not be signing up to it, he added.

    Israel: War aims unchanged

    The Representative of Israel Reut Shapir Ben Naftaly said her country’s goals have been “very clear” since the first few days following 7 October: “To bring all our hostages back home and to dismantle Hamas’ capabilities…and ensure that Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future”.

    Reut Shapir Ben-Naftaly, Minister Counsellor and Political Coordinator of Israel, addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

    U.N. Photo/Evan Schneider.

    “As we have echoed several times in this very chamber, once these goals are met, the war will end,” she added, noting that 120 hostages remain in captivity and that Hamas continues firing rockets at Israeli towns and cities.

    She called for more pressure on Hamas, stating that although three resolutions have been adopted by the Security Council calling for hostages to be released, none have been freed as a result. 

    “The pressure on the terrorists should have begun long ago but it is still not too late, it must begin now,” she added.

    “We will continue until all of the hostages are returned and until Hamas’ military and governing capabilities are dismantled,” she said.

    “Israel will not engage in meaningless and endless negotiations which can be exploited by Hamas as a means to stall for time,” she added.

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