When I think about the recent news of Columbia canceling its main graduation ceremony amid protests related to Gaza, it strikes a chord deep within me. As someone who didn’t get to experience a traditional high school graduation due to the pandemic, I can empathize with the students who are now missing out on their college graduation because of these protests. Graduation is a milestone in one’s life, a moment of celebration and achievement that deserves to be recognized and honored.
It’s disheartening to see how a few individuals can disrupt such an important event for an entire graduating class. While I understand the importance of raising awareness about global issues, there is a time and place for activism.… Continue reading
When I read about the recent attack on the Israel-Gaza border crossing by the Hamas armed wing, my first reaction was one of deep frustration and anger. It’s disheartening to see the continued cycle of violence and aggression in this region, with innocent civilians caught in the crossfire time and time again. The fact that Hamas militants are firing rockets dangerously close to civilian areas in Rafah is not only reckless but also morally reprehensible.
Despite Hamas denying accusations of using civilians as human shields, the evidence speaks for itself. It’s clear that they are intentionally provoking Israel and putting Palestinian civilians at risk in the process.… Continue reading
I lived in Japan as a university student 15-20 years ago. When applying to lease an apartment suite and the landlord would find out I was a foreigner, I was told no for that reason. Multiple times. I remember feeling really bad for my friend from Macao. He was rejected for being Chinese on like 30-40 applications. I thought Japan was proud to be xenophobic? they got a lot of policies in place to prevent immigration and cultural mixing. Are they ashamed of it or not? Japan isn’t mad as us, they’re just *disappointed* Ok.
“Japan is not Xenophobic” Everyone: *raucous laughter*
Whenever I hear people go off on how xenophobic or racist the West is, I wonder what they’re comparing it to.… Continue reading
The recent news of Israel ordering Al Jazeera to close its local operation and seizing some of its equipment is a glaring example of media censorship that cannot be ignored. As I reflect on this issue, I am struck by the patterns of silencing dissenting voices that seem to be emerging not just in Israel but in other countries as well. The targeting of doctors, aid workers, college students, and now the media raises concerns about the state of democracy in the region.
Israel, often touted as the greatest democracy in the Middle East, must critically examine such authoritarian actions within its government.… Continue reading
The Russian army has already lost a staggering 475,300 invaders in Ukraine. When we hear the term “casualties,” it’s crucial to remember that it encompasses those killed, captured, and wounded in the conflict. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent real lives lost and shattered. The sheer magnitude of these losses is difficult to comprehend, with estimates reaching as high as 500,000 casualties, including 150,000 killed in action. Such devastating figures paint a grim picture of the toll that war takes on those who are caught in its crossfire.
It is heartbreaking to think about the families who have been impacted by these losses, with so many disabled veterans left to suffer in the aftermath of the conflict.… Continue reading
Donald Trump falling asleep during a critical portion of his testimony is not only a sign of disrespect but also a display of incompetence and lack of seriousness. As the former President of the United States, one would expect him to at least stay awake during such crucial proceedings, especially when the outcome could potentially have severe consequences. The fact that this is not the first time he has been caught napping in court only adds to the absurdity of the situation.
It raises questions about his capability to hold important positions of power and make informed decisions when he can’t even keep his eyes open during his own trial.… Continue reading
I have come to the realization that the Republican Party, once synonymous with law and order, has devolved into a chaotic mess under the grip of Donald Trump. The recent resignation of Charlie Spies, a top lawyer for the Republican National Committee (RNC), only solidifies this belief. The rift between Spies and Trump has grown to such a degree that stepping down seemed like the only viable option for him.
It is disheartening to see individuals who work closely with Trump, such as lawyers and accountants, leaving their positions in a hurry. This pattern of departures raises red flags about the integrity of the organization and hints at possible internal turmoil.… Continue reading
As I sit here reading about the recent revelation that Tyson Foods has been dumping millions of pounds of toxic pollutants into US rivers and lakes, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of outrage and disappointment. How can a company prioritize profit over the health of our planet and its inhabitants? It’s truly disturbing to think about the long-lasting effects that these toxic pollutants will have on our environment, our wildlife, and our own health.
The fact that Tyson Foods has been able to get away with these despicable actions without facing any real consequences speaks volumes about the lack of accountability in our society.… Continue reading
Trump’s recent statement that he would disband the pandemic preparedness office if reelected is a clear indication of his lack of understanding and leadership when it comes to public health crises. This move would not only be detrimental to our country’s ability to handle future pandemics but also showcases his complete disregard for the well-being of the American people.
The fact that Trump views the pandemic preparedness office as “just a way of giving out pork” is both alarming and ignorant of the crucial role such an office plays in the prevention and mitigation of infectious diseases. Instead of learning from the mistakes made during the COVID-19 pandemic, he seems content to repeat them by dismantling vital institutions that safeguard public health.… Continue reading
As I sat down to read through the news updates of the day, my attention was immediately drawn to the headline that announced the expulsion of a man from his fraternity for making monkey noises at a Black protester at Ole Miss. Instantly, my mind began to reflect on the current state of our society and the deep-rooted racism that continues to rear its ugly head, even in places that are meant to foster growth and acceptance.
The idea that this individual’s fraternity punishment is merely a shadow ban, allowing him to continue hanging out with his frat brothers and attending parties without official membership, is disheartening.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood