President Biden commuted Leonard Peltier’s sentence, releasing him from prison after decades of advocacy from Indigenous activists and human rights groups who claimed his conviction was unjust. This decision, which was opposed by law enforcement who cited the 1975 murders of two FBI agents, grants Peltier clemency but not a pardon. The commutation considers Peltier’s age, health issues, and lengthy imprisonment, culminating in a historic moment for Indigenous communities. His release follows years of lobbying efforts and support from various prominent figures and organizations.
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Thousands participated in nationwide protests against the Treaty Principles Bill, culminating in a large march to Wellington. The bill, introduced by ACT New Zealand, seeks to reinterpret the Treaty of Waitangi, sparking outrage from Māori who view it as undermining their rights. While the bill passed its first reading with support from coalition partners, Prime Minister Luxon and other parties confirmed they will not support further progress, signaling its likely failure. Indigenous leaders performed a haka in Parliament to demonstrate their opposition.
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As a Lakota graduate, the recent incident where a Lakota graduate’s plume was cut from her cap by the Farmington district is deeply disturbing. Graduation ceremonies are supposed to be joyful celebrations of one’s hard work and achievements, yet this act of disrespect and cruelty marred what should have been a moment of pride and honor for this young woman.
The school administrators’ actions in cutting off the culturally significant plume from the Lakota graduate’s cap signify a lack of respect for diversity and individuality. The excuse given of wanting students to look uniform is not only flimsy but also reeks of a power trip from those in authority.… Continue reading
The recent news of France deploying troops, imposing a curfew, and banning TikTok in New Caledonia due to ongoing riots has sparked a wave of discussions and revelations about the situation in this Pacific territory. The tensions between France and the largely indigenous Kanak pro-independence groups have been simmering since the end of an insurgency in the 1980s. It’s essential to understand the historical context to grasp the complexities of the current situation.
The three referendums held in 2018, 2020, and 2021 were meant to determine the future status of New Caledonia. The results showed a rejection of independence, although the 2021 vote was marred by controversy due to a boycott by pro-independence groups.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker