In Iran, a growing number of women are openly defying the mandatory hijab law, spurred by the 2022 protests following Mahsa Amini’s death in custody. This visible shift, particularly in major cities, has been met with a relaxed enforcement of the hijab law despite previous attempts by authorities to intensify its enforcement. Although the government has not officially changed its stance, many believe that the changes are irreversible, with women continuing to exercise their freedom to choose their attire, and this stance is making the government retreat. Despite these changes, fear of retribution persists, with the defiance being most apparent in larger cities while changing attitudes are also noted in smaller towns.
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Madagascar’s president has left the country after Gen Z protests, officials say. It’s a headline that immediately grabs your attention, especially with the mention of Gen Z, a generation known for its tech savvy and willingness to challenge the status quo. As a Millennial, I can’t help but feel a certain level of excitement watching this unfold, particularly as I reflect on how young people can drive significant change. Seeing these protests in Madagascar sparks a feeling of hope, especially when considering how young people, burdened by corrupt governments and economic hardship, are leading the charge.
The situation in Madagascar is complex.… Continue reading
This Saturday, millions are expected to participate in No Kings protests across the United States and internationally, fueled by opposition to President Trump’s policies and actions. The protests, organized across various cities, aim to engage a broad coalition against perceived authoritarianism, with a focus on grassroots mobilization and building a “big tent of opposition.” The events will focus on nonviolent action and safety, with organizers providing training and support to ensure a safe environment. The protests are viewed as crucial due to the worsening conditions under Trump’s regime, including perceived attacks on democracy and human rights.
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Madagascar’s president has declared an attempt to seize power by force as an elite military unit, Capsat, announced it was taking over the army. This follows weeks of youth-led protests against water and electricity shortages, which evolved into calls for the president’s resignation. Capsat, which previously helped bring Rajoelina to power, stated they would not fire on protesters and called for military support. The protests, led by the Gen Z Madagascar movement, and the country’s high levels of corruption and poverty have fueled the unrest.
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Tensions have arisen within the Department of Energy (DOE) between experienced government personnel and a private sector team, described as the “Colorado and DOGE crew,” who are reportedly less inclined to adhere to established procedures. Initially, the DOE was prepared to announce $30 billion in funding awards, but the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) intervened, postponing the announcement to leverage the funds. Subsequently, the OMB Director announced an $8 billion cut to lawfully approved energy project funding, targeting 16 Democratic-led states, while the fate of the remaining $22 billion, predominantly allocated to Republican districts, remains uncertain.
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During a protest at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in South Portland, 84-year-old Richard Eckman, a Vietnam War veteran, and his wife Laurie Eckman, also 84, were reportedly charged and knocked to the ground by federal agents. The Eckmans, who were peacefully protesting, stated that the agents rushed at them without any apparent provocation. According to Laurie Eckman, she was also hit by a projectile, resulting in a concussion. Several witnesses and the Eckmans themselves expressed shock at the agents’ behavior, emphasizing that the protesters were peaceful and not affiliated with any groups known for violence.
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Recent federal immigration operations in Chicago have drawn heavy criticism due to increasingly aggressive tactics. Agents have been reported to use helicopters, deploy chemical agents near schools, and detain individuals, including U.S. citizens and children. Such actions have led to a surge in neighborhood tensions and calls for investigations from state and local leaders. Furthermore, the tactics used by agents have sparked protests and legal challenges, with one suburb filing a lawsuit against the federal government’s actions.
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Tear gas deployed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents affected Chicago Police Department officers during recent clashes with protesters. Videos and witness accounts confirm the use of tear gas, raising concerns from local officials about the safety of both protesters and law enforcement. Broadview Police Chief Thomas Mills has reported multiple instances of ICE agents deploying crowd-control measures, including verbal assaults and questionable tactics, leading to a “dangerous situation” and the opening of criminal investigations. These events are taking place against the backdrop of Operation Midway Blitz, a federal initiative that has led to nearly 5,000 detentions in Illinois this year.
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Following the disputed election victory of the ruling Georgian Dream party, anti-government protesters attempted to storm the presidential palace in Tbilisi, leading to clashes with police who used water cannons and pepper spray. Five individuals, including protest organizer Paata Burchuladze, were arrested, and several people were injured. The demonstration, which involved tens of thousands of people, was sparked by a government crackdown on activists, independent media, and political opposition, with many leaders now imprisoned. The protest occurred on the same day as municipal elections, largely boycotted by the opposition, where Georgian Dream secured majorities, further fueling public discontent and accusations of acting in Russia’s interests.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood