Charles Rangel, a long-serving Harlem Democrat and founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, passed away at age 94. His five-decade career included becoming the first African American to chair the Ways and Means Committee, though he faced censure for ethics violations in 2010. A Korean War veteran known for his distinctive voice and outspoken liberalism, Rangel was a powerful figure in New York politics and a champion of social justice. He was remembered for his advocacy, including his opposition to the Iraq War and his work on behalf of economically disadvantaged communities. His legacy includes significant legislative achievements and a lasting impact on American politics.
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During his second Manchester concert, Bruce Springsteen delivered another scathing critique of the current American political climate, unfazed by President Trump’s social media attacks. He decried the erosion of democracy, citing attacks on free speech, the neglect of the poor, and the rollback of civil rights as key concerns. Springsteen asserted that elected officials have failed to protect the American people, emphasizing his belief in the country’s resilience despite its flaws. The concert, like the previous one, concluded with a performance of Bob Dylan’s “Chimes of Freedom.”
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Justice Sotomayor’s message to lawyers, distilled to its essence, is a powerful call to action: stand up, fight, and win. It’s a rallying cry for those in the legal profession to embrace their role as champions of justice, not just as shrewd businesspeople. The implication is clear: the pursuit of justice should be a primary motivator, even if it means confronting powerful adversaries and potentially sacrificing personal gain.
The legal profession, particularly in the face of significant societal challenges, needs lawyers who are willing to take a stand. It’s a reminder that the idealistic vision of law, of fighting for truth and justice, is not antiquated or naive.… Continue reading
India’s upcoming census will, for the first time since 1931, include caste-based data, a decision with significant socio-political implications. This move is expected to fuel demands for increased quotas in government jobs and education, currently capped at 50%, especially for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). While past governments resisted such data collection, fearing social unrest, supporters argue it’s crucial for effective social justice programs. The inclusion of caste data follows pressure from opposition parties and comes ahead of crucial state elections where caste plays a major role.
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Verizon’s decision to terminate its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs has sparked a firestorm of reaction, largely fueled by the company’s simultaneous pursuit of regulatory approval for its acquisition of Frontier Communications. The timing of this move, coinciding with an alleged Trump administration investigation, suggests a calculated effort to appease a specific political faction rather than a genuine shift in corporate values.
Many observers perceive this action as blatant political appeasement, a cynical abandonment of principles for the sake of profit. The argument is that Verizon’s professed commitment to DEI was merely superficial, a public relations tactic designed to project a socially conscious image.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood
Springsteen Again Slams Trump in UK Concert
During his second Manchester concert, Bruce Springsteen delivered another scathing critique of the current American political climate, unfazed by President Trump’s social media attacks. He decried the erosion of democracy, citing attacks on free speech, the neglect of the poor, and the rollback of civil rights as key concerns. Springsteen asserted that elected officials have failed to protect the American people, emphasizing his belief in the country’s resilience despite its flaws. The concert, like the previous one, concluded with a performance of Bob Dylan’s “Chimes of Freedom.”
Read More