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New York, N.Y. xxx
Remembering President George Walker Bush, WASP Cowboy (July 4, 2012)
WASP Cowboy: Remembering President George Walker Bush
Germany’s Fortified Rothenburg ob der Tauber Village
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany. I visited this fortified hilltop city known as Rothenburg ob der Tauber in high school and the sense of awe walking its cobbled streets has never left me. It is not just a beautiful place to visit but one of Germany’s most significant historical centers.
Ringed by a huge defensive wall punctuated by towering city gates, the enclosed warren of narrow streets, lanes and alleyways are a delight to wander.
Lush parks and gardens are to be stumbled across among the quintessentially German medieval architecture of half-timbered and brightly painted and decorated buildings.
Cafes, restaurants and beer halls abound, as do museums, not least the glittery Christmas Museum, the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum and the Imperial City Museum, celebrating the town’s long and prestigious history.
Germany’s Fortified Rothenburg ob der Tauber Village (June 26, 2012)
1994: Adopting Our Infant Son 20 Years Before Gay Marriage
Mathew arrived with Jeff at JFK in Sept. 1995.
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Electing Barack Obama President
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In 2008 I endorsed Barack Obama [Luce Index™ Score: 92] nine months before the election. In 2012 I could not endorse our president any stronger.
Electing Barack Obama President (June 19, 2016)
Pope Francis
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Grand Central Station
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Hotel Chelsea
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Anne Frank
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Style Guide | The Stewardship Report
- Actor, not actress. Retiring the use of “actress” promotes equality, signifying that men, women, and gender nonconforming individuals can all pursue the same art without stigma or stereotype.
- Asian American. As of 2021, The New York Times, Associated Press, Chicago Manual of Style, and other style guides no longer hyphenate Asian American or any of its derivatives, such as Chinese American, Japanese American, or Pakistani American.
- U.S.A., not USA; U.N., not UN. Call us old-fashioned.
निबंध |पहले एक अनाथ, फिर कई और
जिम लूस 2004 की सुनामी से अनाथ बच्चों के साथ।
श्रेय: अनाथ इंटरनेशनल
जिम लूस द्वारा
12 नवम्बर, 2007
संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका में कई धनी नेक लोग हैं जो यह सोचते हैं कि अपने अनुभव और रचनात्मकता के साथ वे विशेषज्ञता और धन का उपयोग करके विकासशील देशों में लोगों के जीवन को बेहतर बना सकते हैं।
अपना वैश्विक परोपकारी संगठन स्थापित करने के सात साल बाद, मुझे अब पता है कि यह संभव है, हालांकि अक्सर समस्याग्रस्त होता है। आपको बहुत जुनून, ऊर्जा और समझदारी की जरूरत होती है, और विदेशों में आपकी मदद करने वाले लोगों को भी ऐसा ही करना चाहिए।
वर्षों पहले वॉल स्ट्रीट पर काम करते हुए, मैंने विभिन्न जातियों और व्यक्तित्वों के लोगों का एक मोज़ेक देखा, जो सभी खुशी से पैसे के पीछे दौड़ रहे थे। मैंने महसूस किया कि एक समान उद्देश्य के साथ, सभी मतभेदों को दूर किया जा सकता है।
उस समय, मैं न्यूयॉर्क की सड़कों से कुत्तों और बिल्लियों को बचाने में सप्ताहांत बिताता था। लेकिन मैं दुनिया की मदद करने के लिए कुछ करना चाहता था। जब एक इंडोनेशियाई दोस्त ने मुझसे अपने गृहनगर सेलिब्स द्वीप समूह की यात्रा करने के लिए कहा, तो मैंने तुरंत मौके पर छलांग लगा दी। मेरी जिंदगी नाटकीय रूप से बदलने वाली थी।
संयोगवश, हम एक अनाथालय के पास से गुजरे, और मुझे वहां जाने की तीव्र इच्छा हुई। मैं उत्सुक था। वर्षों से, संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका में अनाथालयों को चरणबद्ध तरीके से समाप्त कर दिया गया है और उनकी जगह पालक देखभाल प्रणाली ने ले ली है। इस मंद प्रकाश वाले स्थान में कदम रखते ही, मुझे वहां की अत्यंत खराब स्थिति देखकर झटका लगा। देखभाल करने का बहुत प्यार था, लेकिन सुविधा खुद जर्जर थी। अगर इन बच्चों के पास केवल भोजन और आश्रय के लिए अधिक पैसा होता – लगभग $600 प्रति वर्ष – तो वे फल-फूल सकते थे। मैं व्यक्तिगत रूप से इसे संभव बनाने के लिए क्या कर सकता था?
एक शिशु बाकी बच्चों से अलग नजर आ रहा था, और उसकी मिन्नत करती लेकिन दृढ़ आंखें मुझसे कह रही थीं कि मैं उसे अपने साथ ले जाऊं। उसका नाम मैथ्यू था। वह 10 महीने का था।
श्री लूस अपने बेटे मैथ्यू के साथ, जिसे उन्होंने बच्चे के रूप में गोद लिया था।
श्रेय: अनाथ इंटरनेशनल
हमारे बीच संबंध तत्काल था, और अपनी मंगेतर से बात करने के बाद, मैंने उसे गोद लेने के लिए सहमति दे दी। स्टाफ ने कहा कि उसकी छेदों से भरी बनियान अगले बच्चे के लिए छोड़ दें।
एक साल के भीतर मैथ्यू ने इंडोनेशियाई और अमेरिकी नौकरशाही को पार कर लिया और कैनेडी हवाई अड्डे पर मेरी बाहों में था।
मैट के आने से पहले, मैंने जो देखा था, उसके बारे में बोस्टन में एक तेज-तर्रार बाल मनोवैज्ञानिक – फ्रांसिस डडली अल्लेमन-लूस, मेरी माँ और दोस्त – से चर्चा की थी। मैं अनाथालय में मौजूद अन्य शिशुओं के बारे में सोचना बंद नहीं कर सका, जो न्यूयॉर्क के पशु आश्रयों से भी बदतर हालात में थे। वे सभी गोद नहीं लिए जा सकते थे, लेकिन उनकी मदद की जा सकती थी। मेरी माँ और मैंने इस बारे में बात की कि हम ऐसा कैसे कर सकते हैं।
फिर समाधान आया: “माँ, पता है क्या?” मैंने कहा। “मैंने उस छोटे लड़के को गोद लिया है – अब आप उसकी दादी हैं!” उसे यह महसूस करने में केवल कुछ सेकंड लगे कि सैद्धांतिक अब गहराई से व्यक्तिगत हो गया था – और हमारे पारिवारिक इतिहास में एक नया पृष्ठ जुड़ गया था। हमारे परिवार की मट्रिआर्क, जिनकी जड़ें प्यूरीटन और एंग्लिकन न्यू इंग्लैंड में गहरी थीं, को एक चीनी-इंडोनेशियाई पोता मिल गया था।
मैट के आने पर, उन्होंने उसे तुरंत अपने बेटे की तरह गले लगाया और उसे हार्वर्ड यार्ड का वही दौरा दिया जो उन्होंने बचपन में मुझे दिया था, हमारे परिवार की जड़ों को वहां इंगित किया। आज वह आपका औसत न्यूयॉर्क सिटी किशोर है।
सेलेबस द्वीप समूह में मैंने जिन समग्र समस्याओं का सामना किया था, उनके समाधान मौजूद होने चाहिए थे। मेरी मां ने जरूरतमंदों को प्यार और स्नेह देने की मेरी प्रवृत्ति का अध्ययन किया और मुझे अनाथों के जीवन को बेहतर बनाने के उद्देश्य को अवधारणात्मक बनाने की चुनौती दी।
तो विकासशील देशों में एक सरोगेट फोस्टर केयर सिस्टम का विचार पैदा हुआ। मेरी अवधारणा छोटे घरों पर आधारित थी जिनमें केवल चार बच्चे और प्रत्येक घर में एक गृहिणी होती है। मेरा दृष्टिकोण अनाथ बच्चों को छोटे बच्चों से लेकर वयस्कता तक उसी तरह पालने का था जैसे मैं अपने बेटे को पालता। यह सरल धारणा अब “मैथ्यू का नियम” के रूप में संहिताबद्ध है। क्या मैथ्यू यहां फल-फूल सकता है? यह हमारा सख्त और प्राथमिक मापदंड है।
2001 में मेरी मां की मृत्यु हो गई, और अपनी वसीयत में उन्होंने आशा व्यक्त की कि मैं अनाथ इंटरनेशनल शुरू करूंगा। मेरी विरासत को देखते हुए – हार्वर्ड के सह-संस्थापक (थॉमस डडली) से लेकर नेवल वॉर कॉलेज के संस्थापक (स्टीफन ब्लेकर लूस) तक – शायद उन्हें विश्वास था कि संस्थान निर्माण मेरे जीन में है।
हमने उसी साल बाद में इंडोनेशिया में अनाथ इंटरनेशनल को शामिल किया, और सुलावेसी में अपना पहला घर खोला। 2002 में, हमने न्यूयॉर्क में शामिल होकर यहां पैसा जुटाना शुरू किया। हमने 2003 में हैती में काम शुरू किया, अंततः गोनाइव्स में एक घर खोला।
फिर, सुनामी ने इंडोनेशिया से श्रीलंका तक हिंद महासागर में तबाही मचाई। योगदान आने लगे, मेरे अपने रूजवेल्ट द्वीप समुदाय से और दुनिया भर के प्रमुख परिवारों से जिन्होंने हमारे बारे में सुनकर मुंह से मुंह प्रचार किया। हमने कर्मचारियों को जमीन पर – वास्तव में कीचड़ में – दिन के भीतर आचेह, इंडोनेशिया में रखा, जल्दी से एक घर स्थापित किया और हमारे पहले सुनामी अनाथों को प्यार और करुणा के साथ गले लगाया। मुझे अपनी माँ की याद आई।
जब लहर ने श्रीलंका को तबाह किया, तो एक युवा श्रीलंकाई-अमेरिकी जोड़ा गाले के पास एक समुद्र तट पर इसकी घातक पकड़ में आ गया। पति बह गया। उसकी अमेरिकी पत्नी बच गई। उसकी याद में, उसके पिता ने श्रीलंका में एक अनाथ गांव बनाने का वचन दिया।
हमारे बोर्ड के समर्थन से, हमने एक संयुक्त राष्ट्र-संबद्ध गैर सरकारी संगठन का निर्माण किया। हमारा छाता संगठन अनाथ इंटरनेशनल वर्ल्डवाइड है, जिसमें पेरू के लीमा में हमारे प्रशासनिक कार्यालय में स्वयंसेवकों द्वारा कार्य किया जाता है, और हमारे स्वयंसेवक इंटर्नशिप कार्यक्रम न्यूयॉर्क में है। यह संरचना हमें कम ओवरहेड बनाए रखने में सक्षम बनाती है; हमारे नवीनतम ऑडिट में प्रशासन पर 8 प्रतिशत से भी कम खर्च दिखाया गया है।
इन प्रयासों को समर्थन देने के लिए, हमने सामान्य संस्थापक सर्कल, राष्ट्रपति सर्कल और सलाहकार बोर्ड का निर्माण किया – प्रत्येक समूह के लिए विशिष्ट वित्तीय प्रतिबद्धताओं के साथ। संयुक्त राष्ट्र जन सूचना विभाग से जुड़ने के बाद से, मैट का नियम विस्तृत हो गया है और विकासशील देशों में अनाथालयों के लिए एक मानक बन गया है।
सुनामी के बाद, मैंने अपनी वॉल स्ट्रीट की नौकरी छोड़ दी ताकि मैं वित्तपोषण बढ़ाने, प्रोग्रामिंग बनाने और हमारे वैश्विक मानकों के अनुपालन को सुनिश्चित करने के लिए खुद को समर्पित कर सकूं। ईमानदार, सहायक और देखभाल करने वाले स्थानीय पेशेवरों के साथ जबरदस्त प्रगति हासिल की गई है। हमें उम्मीद थी कि वे हमें उन झटकों से बचने में मदद करेंगे – जिसमें भाई-भतीजावाद और भ्रष्टाचार के अनगिनत मामले शामिल हैं – जिनका हमने सामना किया है। उन्होंने कुछ हद तक ऐसा किया है, लेकिन चुनौतियां फिर भी आईं।
उदाहरण के लिए, हमारे कार्यक्रमों में से एक के एक बोर्ड सदस्य ने हम पर अपनी प्रेमिका को हमारे निदेशक के रूप में नियुक्त करने और अपने भाई की हवेली को हमारे अनाथालय के रूप में किराए पर लेने का दबाव डाला। नहीं। एक कर्मचारी ने सुनामी के बाद डॉलर के संकेत देखे और इसके बाद बहने वाली लाखों की सहायता राशि देखी, और घोषणा की कि वह संगठन पर कब्जा कर रहा है। नहीं। एक अन्य अधिकारी, जो दो वर्षों तक मेरे साथ था, वह धन का हिसाब नहीं दे सका। फिर नहीं। कोई भी अपने बच्चों से कैसे विश्वासघात कर सकता है?
इन पर्दे के पीछे की लड़ाइयों
निबंध |पहले एक अनाथ, फिर कई और
ENSAYO | Primero un huérfano, luego muchos más: Orphans International
Jim Luce con huérfanos del tsunami de 2004. Crédito: Orphans International.
Por Jim Luce
12 de noviembre de 2007
Nueve York. Estados Unidos tiene muchos benefactores adinerados que creen que con su experiencia y creatividad podrían aprovechar su pericia y dinero para mejorar la vida de las personas en los países en desarrollo.
Ahora sé, siete años después de fundar mi propia organización benéfica global, que esto es posible, aunque a menudo problemático. Se necesita mucha pasión, energía e ingenio, pero también deben tenerlos las personas en el extranjero que te ayudan.
Trabajando en Wall Street hace años, encontré un mosaico de personas de diversas etnias y personalidades, todas persiguiendo felizmente el todopoderoso dólar. Me di cuenta de que, con una causa común, todas las diferencias son superables.
En ese momento, pasaba los fines de semana rescatando perros y gatos de las calles de Nueva York con gran satisfacción. Pero estaba interesado en hacer algo para ayudar al mundo. Cuando un amigo indonesio me pidió que viajara con él a su ciudad natal en las Islas Célebes, aproveché la oportunidad y nos fuimos. Mi vida estaba a punto de cambiar dramáticamente.
Por casualidad, pasamos por un orfanato y sentí la necesidad de visitarlo. Me intrigaba. A lo largo de los años, los orfanatos han sido eliminados en Estados Unidos y reemplazados por el sistema de cuidado temporal. Al entrar en la instalación, débilmente iluminada, me sobrecogieron las extraordinarias condiciones de pobreza. Había mucho cariño, pero la instalación en sí estaba en ruinas. Si estos niños solo tuvieran más dinero para comida y refugio —alrededor de $600 al año, calculé— podrían prosperar. ¿Qué podría hacer yo personalmente para que esto sucediera?
Un bebé se destacó literalmente de los demás, y sus ojos suplicantes pero decididos parecían exigir que lo llevara a casa conmigo. Su nombre era Mathew. Tenía 10 meses.
La conexión entre nosotros fue inmediata y, después de hablar con mi prometida, acepté adoptarlo. El personal pidió que su camiseta, llena de agujeros, se quedara para el próximo niño.
En menos de un año, Mathew había pasado por las burocracias indonesias y americanas y estaba en mis brazos en el aeropuerto Kennedy.
Antes de que llegara Matt, había discutido lo que había presenciado con una psicóloga infantil de Boston con una mente aguda —Frances Dudley Alleman-Luce, mi madre y amiga. No podía dejar de pensar en los otros bebés del orfanato, viviendo en condiciones tan dickensianas, peores que los refugios para animales de Nueva York. No todos podían ser adoptados, pero podían ser ayudados. Mi madre y yo hablamos sobre formas en las que podríamos hacerlo.
Luego vino el desenlace: “Mamá, ¿adivina qué?” le dije. “Adopté a ese pequeño, ¡ahora eres su abuela!” Le tomó solo segundos darse cuenta de que lo teórico ahora era profundamente personal, y se había escrito una nueva página en la historia de nuestra familia. La matriarca de nuestra familia, con profundas raíces en la Nueva Inglaterra puritana y anglicana, había recibido a un nieto chino-indonesio.
Cuando llegó Matt, lo acogió inmediatamente como suyo y le dio el mismo recorrido por Harvard Yard que me había dado a mí de niño, señalándole nuestras raíces familiares allí. Hoy es un adolescente promedio de la ciudad de Nueva York.
Tenían que existir soluciones a los problemas generales que había encontrado en las Islas Célebes. Mi madre estudió mi inclinación por dar amor y afecto a los necesitados y me desafió a conceptualizar mi objetivo de mejorar la vida de los huérfanos.
Así nació la idea de un sistema de cuidado temporal sustituto en los países en desarrollo. Mi concepto se basaba en pequeños hogares con solo cuatro niños y un padre de familia en cada vivienda. Mi visión era criar a los niños huérfanos desde la infancia hasta la edad adulta de la misma manera en que criaría a mi hijo. Esta simple noción ahora está codificada como la “Regla de Mathew”. ¿Podría Mathew prosperar aquí? Este es nuestro criterio estricto y principal.
Mi madre murió en 2001 y en su testamento designó dinero con la esperanza de que comenzara Orphans International. Dada mi herencia, desde un cofundador de Harvard (Thomas Dudley) hasta el fundador del Colegio de Guerra Naval (Stephen Bleecker Luce), tal vez ella creía que la construcción de instituciones estaba en mis genes.
Incorporamos Orphans International en Indonesia ese mismo año y abrimos nuestro primer hogar en Sulawesi. En 2002, nos incorporamos en Nueva York y comenzamos a recaudar dinero aquí. Comenzamos a trabajar en Haití en 2003, eventualmente abriendo un hogar en Gonaïves.
Luego, el tsunami azotó el Océano Índico desde Indonesia hasta Sri Lanka. Las contribuciones llegaron, desde mi propia comunidad en Roosevelt Island y de familias prominentes de todo el mundo que habían oído hablar de nosotros de boca en boca. Colocamos personal en el terreno, literalmente en el barro, en cuestión de días en Aceh, Indonesia, rápidamente establecimos un hogar y acogimos a nuestros primeros huérfanos del tsunami con amor y compasión. Pensé en mi madre.
Cuando la ola golpeó Sri Lanka, una joven pareja de Sri Lanka y Estados Unidos fue atrapada en su mortal abrazo en una playa cerca de Galle. El esposo fue arrastrado por el agua. Su esposa estadounidense sobrevivió. En su memoria, el padre de ella prometió construir una aldea de huérfanos en Sri Lanka.
Con el apoyo de nuestra junta, construimos una organización no gubernamental asociada a las Naciones Unidas. Nuestra organización paraguas es Orphans International Worldwide, con nuestra oficina administrativa atendida por voluntarios en Lima, Perú, y nuestro programa de pasantías voluntarias en Nueva York. Esta estructura nos permite mantener bajos costos generales; nuestra última auditoría muestra menos del 8 por ciento gastado en administración.
Para financiar estos esfuerzos, creamos el Círculo de Fundadores, el Círculo del Presidente y la Junta Asesora, cada grupo con compromisos financieros específicos. Desde que nos asociamos con el Departamento de Información Pública de las Naciones Unidas, la Regla de Mathew se ha desarrollado y se ha convertido en un estándar para los orfanatos en los países en desarrollo.
Después del tsunami, renuncié a mi trabajo en Wall Street para dedicarme a aumentar la financiación, construir programas y asegurar el cumplimiento de nuestros estándares globales. Se ha logrado un tremendo progreso con profesionales locales honestos, solidarios y cariñosos. Esperábamos que nos ayudaran a evitar los contratiempos, incluidos innumerables casos de nepotismo y corrupción, que hemos encontrado. En cierta medida, lo han hecho, pero los desafíos aún ocurrieron.
Por ejemplo, un miembro de la junta de uno de nuestros programas nos presionó para que contratáramos a su amante como directora y alquiláramos la mansión de su hermano como nuestro orfanato. No. Un miembro del personal vio signos de dólar después del tsunami y los millones de ayuda que fluían después, y anunció que se hacía cargo de la organización. No. Otro funcionario, conmigo durante dos años, no pudo justificar los fondos. De nuevo, no. ¿Cómo puede alguien traicionar a sus propios hijos?
A pesar de estas batallas tras bambalinas, estamos en el terreno en 12 países y tenemos un presupuesto anual de medio millón de dólares, con proyectos en Haití, Indonesia y Perú y abriendo en Sri Lanka. Curiosamente, Sri Lanka es el único país en el que nunca nos han engañado. Allí no hemos enfrentado corrupción, sino la lenta tortura de una burocracia. Creo que nuestro proyecto allí, que está a punto de aceptar a sus primeros niños, puede convertirse en el modelo para nuestros esfuerzos globales.
Orphans International se ha convertido en mi vocación, y puede ser una peligrosa. El verano pasado en Haití, durante un baño con nuestro director local y dos de nuestros niños, fuimos atacados por una multitud de personas que pensaban que estábamos secuestrando a sus hijos. La policía haitiana vio el peligro y nos rescató, pero ellos mismos fueron superados por la violenta multitud. Finalmente, fuimos salvados por soldados de mantenimiento de la paz de las Naciones Unidas.
Finalmente, creo que la paciencia, la confianza, la buena voluntad y el Internet hacen posibles nuestros esfuerzos. Nos comunicamos con nuestros 218 voluntarios a través de zonas horarias por correo electrónico, mensajería instantánea y Skype. Plaxo, Facebook y LinkedIn también juegan un papel en nuestra divulgación. Los planes son que nuestros patrocinadores de niños puedan saludar directamente a sus niños a través de Skype.
Como en Wall Street, las semanas de 100 horas continúan, solo que ahora ya no recibo un salario ni un bono anual. En 2006, liquidé mis ahorros del plan de jubilación para mantener a flote nuestros esfuerzos. Mi enfoque sigue siendo perseguir el todopoderoso dólar, solo que ahora para otros.
ENSAYO | Primero un huérfano, luego muchos más: Orphans International (Nov. 12, 2007)
ESSAY| First One Orphan, Then Many Others: Orphans International (New York Times, 12 de noviembre de 2007)
In Indonesia: The Basics for Americans
Indonesia is an archipelago nation located in Southeast Asia, straddling the equator between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world’s largest island country, consisting of more than 17,000 islands, with over 6,000 of them inhabited. This diverse nation is home to hundreds of distinct ethnic groups and languages, with the Javanese being the largest ethnic group.
Jakarta, Indonesia. As I journey through Indonesia, capturing the essence of a nation striving to maintain harmony among its vast and diverse population, I find myself frequently explaining the basics to curious friends back home. Here’s a primer:
Indonesia, known officially as the Republic of Indonesia, lies in Southeast Asia and Oceania, comprising over 17,000 islands, with about 6,000 of them inhabited. The country’s major islands include Sumatra, Java, Borneo (shared with Malaysia and Brunei), Sulawesi, and New Guinea (shared with Papua New Guinea). Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous country, with a population exceeding 270 million people.
The rich history of Indonesia is marked by its strategic location along ancient trading routes between the Far East, South Asia, and the Middle East. This position has made Indonesia a melting pot of cultures, religions, and languages. The archipelago’s cultural diversity is one of its most captivating aspects.
Ancient Kingdoms and Colonial History
Indonesia’s history is a tapestry of powerful kingdoms and empires, such as Srivijaya, Majapahit, and the Sultanate of Malacca. These empires facilitated the spread of Hinduism, Buddhism, and later Islam throughout the archipelago. By the early 16th century, European explorers, traders, and colonial powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, began to arrive in Indonesia. The Dutch East India Company established a foothold in the region, eventually leading to Dutch colonial rule that lasted for over three centuries.
Independence and Modern Era
Indonesia declared its independence from Dutch rule on August 17, 1945, under the leadership of Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta. However, it took several years of diplomatic and armed struggle before the Dutch formally recognized Indonesian sovereignty in 1949.
Today, Indonesia is a democratic republic, with Jakarta as its bustling capital. The country operates under a presidential system, and Joko Widodo, popularly known as Jokowi, is the current president. Indonesia is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, ASEAN, and the G20.
Ethnic and Religious Diversity
Indonesia’s ethnic diversity is remarkable, with over 300 ethnic groups. The Javanese, Sundanese, and Madurese are among the largest groups. This diversity extends to languages, with over 700 languages spoken across the archipelago. Bahasa Indonesia, the official language, serves as a unifying force.
Religiously, Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, with nearly 87% of the population adhering to Islam. However, the country is also home to significant communities of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and others. The island of Bali is renowned for its vibrant Hindu culture and traditions.
Cultural Richness
Indonesia’s cultural heritage is rich and varied. Traditional arts, music, dance, and crafts thrive across the islands. The gamelan orchestra, wayang kulit (shadow puppetry), and batik textiles are just a few examples of Indonesia’s artistic treasures. The country celebrates numerous festivals, such as the Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence), Eid al-Fitr, and the Toraja funeral rites, showcasing its cultural depth.
Natural Beauty and Biodiversity
Indonesia’s natural beauty is unparalleled. The country boasts stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and majestic volcanoes. The Komodo National Park, home to the famous Komodo dragons, and the Borobudur and Prambanan temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, are major tourist attractions. Indonesia’s rich biodiversity includes species found nowhere else on Earth, such as the Sumatran tiger, orangutans, and various unique marine life in its coral reefs.
Economic Growth and Challenges
Indonesia has experienced significant economic growth in recent decades, becoming one of the largest economies in Southeast Asia. The country’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and services. Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali are major economic hubs.
However, Indonesia also faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental issues. Deforestation, urbanization, and climate change are pressing concerns that require sustainable solutions.
Conclusion
Indonesia, with its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural wonders, is a fascinating and complex nation. As it continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern world, Indonesia’s journey towards unity in diversity remains a testament to the resilience and spirit of its people.
In Indonesia: The Basics for Americans (May 27, 2012)
Haiti: Post-Quake Leadership Training with U.N. Peacekeeper Support
U.N. peacekeepers fly into a town to perform emergency surgery on wounded Haitian police officers. MINUSTAH/Sophia Paris.
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Léogâne, Haiti. The Orphans International Worldwide Leadership Training and Mentoring Program following the earthquake had the full support of the U.N. troops on the ground there.
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Haiti: Post-Quake Leadership Training with U.N. Peacekeeper Support (May 26, 2012)
Benefit at Art Students League of New York for Fukushima Tsunami Relief
Mathew Luce, Lauren Towle (seated), and Japanese diplomats at “Scroll for Japan,” a relief effort following the Tsunami-driven nuclear disaster in Fukushima at the Art Students’ League, NYC.
Benefit at Art Students League of New York for Fukushima Tsunami Relief (May 26, 2012)
Launched by Australian Visionary, U.S. Peace Index Hits Year Two
The U.S. Peace Index was launched last year with the aim is to further understand the types of environments that are associated with peace and its economic impacts at a more specific regional level.
New York, N.Y. I first met Steve Killelea one year ago at the Harvard Club when the U.S. Peace Index (USPI) was launched. Last week, in the Japanese-themed Upper East Side home of Krishen and Geeta Mehta, I met him again — along with his lovely wife and daughter — far from his native Australia. Steve is a business-minded visionary who believes peace can be supported better if it is quantifiable. His life mission is to measure it.
Australian visionary Steve Killelea’s U.S. Peace Index is now in its second year. Photo: IEP.
Built upon its highly respected Global Peace Index, produced by the Australian NGO The Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), the U.S. Peace Index was launched last year as the first in a series of national peace indices that IEP has begun to release. The aim is to further understand the types of environments that are associated with peace and its economic impacts at a more specific regional level.
“We really only study conflict, not peace,” Steve told his captivated audience. This is why humanity needs to quantify peace so we can more readily achieve it.
The USPI reveals many things about our nation, including that my favorite state, Maine, is America’s most peaceful state. Luckily, my second favorite, New York, has seen the largest improvements in peace since the early 1990s. My other favorite states — basically the rest of New England — rank at the top, as does another great state, Minnesota.
I try to only accentuate the positive, but I will mention that Louisiana is the least peaceful state with Tennessee, Nevada, Florida and Alabama at the bottom. Hmm. One fact that surprised me is that peace is politically neutral — neither Republican nor Democratic states have an advantage in obtaining the absence of violence. I won’t share my acerbic thoughts on that topic as I will only annoy friends on both sides of the Aisle.
The Institute’s analysis also identifies that there are hundreds of billions of dollars in economic impact to be gained from reducing violence across America. Specifically, the Institute calculates that if all the states in the U.S. had the same level of peacefulness as the most peaceful state (Maine), the total economic effect would be more than $274 billion, with the potential to generate more than 1.7 million jobs. Amazing.
These costs were also calculated at the state level. California was found to have the highest state burden of violence at more than $22 billion per year while Vermont has the lowest at $188 million. For each state taxpayer, the total economic cost of violence varies, from $7,166 per taxpayer in Washington, D.C., to $1,281 for Maine taxpayers.
Steve, who founded The Institute for Economics and Peace, told me:
Peace translates into dollars and cents. We have seen this in the findings of the 2011 Global Peace Index, where we found that a 25 percent reduction in global violence would free up over $2 trillion.
Michelle Breslauer is the U.S. Program Manager for the Institute for Economics and Peace on 54th Street here in New York. I sat down with Michelle recently to find out more. She told me:
As the only statistical analysis that offers a comprehensive nationwide measurement of crime and its costs, the Index illustrates the tremendous social and economic impact of violence in the U.S. We see that peace relates to opportunity and lays the foundation for individual and societal well-being.
The Index looks at a set of five indicators, including homicide rates, violent crimes, percentage of the population in jail, number of police officers and availability of small arms (per 100,000 people) to rank the states. The data used to construct the Index is drawn from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Centers for Disease Control. Factors such as median income and a state’s political affiliation had no discernible impact on a state’s level of peace.
Steve Clemons, Washington editor-at-large for The Atlantic, has commented on the Index:
For decades, many studies have looked at the issue of peacefulness; however, what we observe with the USPI is that, for the first time, we have the ability to cross reference data painting a much clearer picture of the real costs of violence in the U.S. Quantifying the cost of violence or the lack of it seems to be an important tool to help decision makers to make informed budgetary decisions when it comes to crime control. Studies like this one give us a window into our full potential as a nation, which directly impacts our ability to compete in a globalized world.
Steve’s presentation last week at the Mehta residence was informative as always:
If every prisoner in the U.S. was brought together in one jail, it would rank as the fourth largest American city with a population of well over two million. With 5 percent of the world’s population, the U.S. has 25 percent of the world’s prisoners incarcerated, ranking America with China and Russia. Yet, as the American baby boomers age, there are fewer crimes being committed here.
Given the financial costs of incarceration, emphasis needs to be placed on programs that reduce the likelihood of reoffending or finding more cost effective ways that deal with non-violent offenders. Programs dealing with education and vocational training have been proven to be effective in reducing recidivism.
What is absolutely clear from the Index is that peaceful states perform better across a range of economic, health, education and community factors. They have higher high school graduation rates, lower poverty, better access to basic services, higher labor force participation rates, higher life expectancy and less single parented families. Even social capital, such as volunteerism, civic engagement, trust, and group membership, is higher in more peaceful states.
Steve founded a family foundation 18 years ago working throughout the developing world. His foundation has funded more than 100 projects in countries such as Rwanda for an average of $100,000 to $500,000 in investment.
Global Peace Index 2011 Vision of Humanity video. Image: GPI.
Just as last year, nearly 200 news stories have featured the report, with the USPI covered in USA Today and featured in Time, the Atlantic Cities, The Huffington Post, MSNBC, and the Economist, among many others. Steve’s daughter told me that she knew her dad was making a difference when, upon arriving in the U.S. from Australia, she saw a news report on the Peace Index in the back of a NYC cab, on taxi TV. Click here to watch a short video about the findings and here to explore interactive maps.
John Lennon would not be surprised that in this century, like all centuries gone by, people study violence more than peace. As Steve pointed out, there are few, if any, university courses anywhere in the world on the literature or economics of peace.
My grandfather was an ambulance driver on the fields of France in World War I, my father with Patton at Dachau in World War II, my brother to be drafted the week before the draft ended for Vietnam. I was an exchange student to Germany and Japan, as well as experienced 9/11 as so many New Yorkers did. The need for peace is real — in our lifetime. Now. I commend Steve Killelea for his incredible vision and pledge, on behalf of my son, to do whatever is in my power to assist him in making this world more peaceful.
Launched by Australian Visionary, U.S. Peace Index Hits Year Two (Originally published in The Huffington Post, May 15, 2012)
Our UNSNC Aux Antilles Gala at Bohemian National Hall
Photo: John Lee and Deborah Pierre at the UNSNC Aux Antilles dinner dance Nov. 4, 2011 in support of the International University Center Haiti, a project of The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation.
John Lee and Deborah Pierre at the UNSNC Aux Antilles dinner dance Nov. 4, 2011 in support of the International University Center Haiti, a project of The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation.
Our UNSNC Aux Antilles Gala at Bohemian National Hall (Nov. 5, 2011)
The Epic Battle of Kurukshetra, as told in The Mahābhārata
The Kurukshetra War, a war of succession between two groups of princely cousins, the Kauravas and the Pāṇḍavas
<em>The Mahābhārata<em/>
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The Epic Battle of Kurukshetra, as told in The Mahābhārata (Aug. 27, 2011)
From CUNY to the NYT: A.M. Rosenthal’s Championing of Justice
A.M. Rosenthal, a distinguished graduate of City College of New York, was a renowned journalist and executive editor of The New York Times, known for his unwavering commitment to truth and his advocacy for a more just and informed world. He embodied the spirit of global citizenship, fearlessly exposing injustice and challenging powerful institutions to uphold ethical standards.
New York, N.Y. — A.M. Rosenthal, a graduate of City College of New York, was a towering figure in the world of journalism. He served as the executive editor of The New York Times, where he championed the publication of the Pentagon Papers, a landmark exposé revealing the truth about the Vietnam War. His life and career exemplified the values of global citizenship, a dedication to truth-telling and a commitment to challenging injustice wherever he found it.
A.M. Rosenthal’s impact extended beyond his editorial role:
- He fearlessly reported on the realities of Cold War-era Poland, earning expulsion for his incisive critique of the government’s policies and societal conditions.
- He challenged the status quo, advocating for a more ethical and transparent approach to power, particularly in the realm of international relations.
- He inspired generations of journalists to prioritize truth and accountability, recognizing their role as guardians of public trust and watchdogs of power.
A.M. Rosenthal’s legacy reminds us that global citizenship requires courage and conviction. His unwavering commitment to exposing the truth and holding institutions accountable serves as a powerful example of how journalists can contribute to a more just and informed world.
From CUNY to the NYT: A.M. Rosenthal’s Championing of Justice (Aug. 13, 2011)
#globalcitizenship #journalism #truth #justice #newyorktimes #citycollege #cuny #pentagonpapers #freedomofpress #transparency #accountability #humanrights
Tags: A.M. Rosenthal, Journalism, The New York Times, City College of New York, Pulitzer Prize, Pentagon Papers, Freedom of Press, Global Citizenship, Human Rights, Social Justice
Jonas Salk: Championing Scientific Breakthroughs for Humanity
Jonas Salk, a City College of New York graduate, was a renowned virologist who revolutionized public health with his groundbreaking development of the first polio vaccine. His life exemplified a profound commitment to global citizenship, dedicated to improving human health and well-being through scientific innovation.
New York, N.Y. — Jonas Salk, a graduate of City College of New York, is celebrated as a pioneer in public health. His tireless dedication to scientific research led to the development of the first effective polio vaccine, a breakthrough that saved countless lives and transformed the global landscape of infectious disease. Salk’s life embodied a deep commitment to global citizenship, driven by the desire to improve the health and well-being of people worldwide.
Salk’s impact extended far beyond his scientific achievements:
- He believed in the importance of making his vaccine accessible to everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, demonstrating a commitment to global equity in healthcare.
- He advocated for the development of other vaccines, recognizing the power of scientific innovation to address global health challenges.
- He inspired generations of scientists and public health professionals to dedicate their lives to improving the lives of others through research and innovation.
Jonas Salk’s legacy reminds us that global citizenship extends beyond borders and embraces a shared responsibility for the health and well-being of humanity. His unwavering commitment to scientific progress and his dedication to a healthier world serve as a powerful inspiration to continue striving for a brighter future for all.
Jonas Salk: Championing Scientific Breakthroughs for Humanity (Aug. 13, 2011)
#globalcitizenship #polio #vaccine #science #publichealth #citycollege #cuny #humanity #innovation #health #wellbeing #globalimpact
Tags: Jonas Salk, Polio Vaccine, City College of New York, Virology, Public Health, Global Health, Science, Innovation, Global Citizenship, Humanitarianism
Remembering Daniel Schorr: Journalist Who Challenged Power
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Daniel Schorr (1916-2010, age 93). An Emmy award-winning broadcast journalist for CBS-TV and National Public Radio. He graduated from the City College of New York (CUNY) in 1939. Schorr was known for his impactful journalism and commitment to truth, which aligns with the principles of global citizenship, such as valuing differences and contributing to global solutions. His work often highlighted issues of social justice, making him a figure who uplifted humanity through his reporting.
Born in New York City of Russian Jewish parents, he died almost a century later in Washington, D.C.
New York, N.Y. — Daniel Schorr, the veteran Washington journalist and longtime senior news analyst for NPR, passed away at the age of 93. Schorr was a formidable figure in journalism, known for breaking major stories both domestically and internationally during the Cold War and Watergate. He once described himself as a “living history book,” and indeed, his career spanned some of the most pivotal moments in modern history.
Schorr’s journalism was deeply informed by his experiences and the perspective gained from decades of covering history as it unfolded. He had a unique ability to bring context to contemporary news, comparing presidents from Eisenhower onward with a depth that few could match. This historical insight was a cornerstone of his broadcasting, adding a layer of analysis that made his commentary essential listening.
His career as a foreign correspondent began in 1946, after serving in U.S. Army intelligence during World War II. Schorr reported from Western Europe during the postwar reconstruction, witnessing the implementation of the Marshall Plan and the creation of NATO. His work with CBS News, starting in 1953, included reopening the network’s Moscow bureau and securing an exclusive interview with Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev—a first in American broadcasting.
Schorr’s commitment to investigative journalism was perhaps most evident during the Watergate scandal. He was shocked to find his name on President Nixon’s infamous Enemies List, a badge of honor that underscored his impact as a journalist. Schorr’s reporting during this period earned him Emmys three years in a row and a Peabody Award for his uncompromising integrity.
Schorr was no stranger to controversy. His reporting on CIA assassinations and the leak of the Pike Committee report on illegal CIA and FBI activities put him at odds with powerful institutions. Yet, he remained steadfast in his commitment to the First Amendment, even at the risk of his career. Schorr resigned from CBS in 1976 after being taken off the air, but he continued to challenge government narratives and provide incisive commentary for CNN and later NPR.
Daniel Schorr’s legacy is one of relentless pursuit of the truth, often at great personal cost. He was a journalist who never shied away from challenging those in power, and his contributions to journalism have left an indelible mark on the profession. Schorr’s ability to dig deep and present facts with clarity and context made him a trusted voice in a world where such voices are increasingly rare. His passing is not just the loss of a journalist, but the loss of a critical witness to history.
Remembering Daniel Schorr: Journalist Who Challenged Power (Aug. 13, 2011)
Trotsky Formed Workers’ Red Army to Defend New Soviet State
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New York, N.Y.
The Red Army. Officially known as the Workers’ and Peasants’ Red Army, was the army and air force of the Russian Soviet Republic and later the Soviet Union from 1918 to 1946. It was established in January 1918 by Leon Trotsky to defend the new Soviet state during the Russian Civil War.
The Red Army played a crucial role in World War II, providing the largest land force in the Allied victory over Nazi Germany. It accounted for 75-80% of Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS casualties on the Eastern Front and ultimately captured Berlin. Up to 34 million soldiers served in the Red Army during the war, with official losses of over 11 million killed, missing, or captured[1].
The Red Army received significant material support from the United States through the Lend-Lease program, including over 400,000 jeeps and trucks, 12,000 armored vehicles, and 14,000 aircraft.
After World War II, the Red Army occupied much of Eastern Europe, helping to establish and maintain communist regimes aligned with the Soviet Union.
On February 25, 1946, the Red Army was renamed the Soviet Army. It retained this name until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, after which it became the core of the Russian Ground Forces.
Trotsky Formed Workers’ Red Army to Defend New Soviet State (July 11, 2011)
Apollo 11 – One Small Step for Man, One Giant Leap for Mankind
Photo: Apollo 11 lunar landing mission crew, pictured L-R, Neil Armstrong, commander; Michael Collins, command module pilot; and Edwin E. Aldrin Jr., lunar module pilot. May 1969. Credit: NASA.
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Apollo 11 – One Small Step for Man, One Giant Leap for Mankind (July 3, 2011)
Visiting Ghana Where Our Orphanage Inspiration—and Idea—Collapsed
Photo: Jim Luce warmly welcomed by children in the Volta region of Ghana north of Accra on the Togolese border.
Accra, Ghana. Dr. Simey was a noted psychiatrist in Accra who committed to helping Orphans International Worldwide build a home for a dozen destitute children either in the capital or Volta Region. Sadly, he passed away shortly before the project moved forward leaving a leadership vacuum on the ground there we were unable to fill from the U.S.
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Visiting Ghana Where Our Orphanage Inspiration—and Idea—Collapsed (June 21, 2011)