Search

The article titled "Prison Innovations" explores the ways in which incarcerated individuals in the United States use creativity and resourcefulness to maintain a sense of identity and humanity within the restrictive environment of prison. The article highlights examples such as improvised makeup, tattoos, and chess sets made from unconventional materials. It also discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic and social-distancing measures have impacted the ability of prisoners to engage in recreational activities, leading to further innovations in playing chess mentally. The article emphasizes the resilience and ingenuity of incarcerated individuals in the face of deprivation and confinement. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the issue of probation detainers and their impact on individuals in the criminal justice system. It highlights the experiences of several individuals who were held in jail on probation detainers, even after their new criminal charges were dropped or dismissed. The article also sheds light on the conditions in Allegheny County Jail, which has faced lawsuits and investigations due to inadequate medical care, mistreatment of inmates, and unsanitary conditions. Advocates are calling for structural reforms to the probation system, emphasizing the need for detainers to be used as a last resort and for counties to incentivize probation compliance. The article underscores the disproportionate impact of probation on marginalized communities and the difficulties faced by individuals trying to navigate the complex rules and conditions of probation. [Extracted from the article]

This article profiles the life and work of Jane McAlevey, a well-known labor organizer and author who recently passed away from blood cancer. The author grapples with the decision of whether to include Jane's cancer diagnosis in the article, ultimately choosing to have a conversation with her about it. The article explores Jane's background, including her upbringing with a fighter pilot father and her love for horses, and how these experiences shaped her political beliefs. It also delves into her successful union organizing campaign in Stamford, Connecticut, which not only resulted in workers gaining a union and contract, but also had broader impacts on public housing projects and renovations. McAlevey's emphasis on language and storytelling as tools for organizing is highlighted, and the article concludes with a reflection on her legacy and her ability to inspire others to continue the important work of organizing. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the experiences of the author's father, Wolfgang Yourgrau, a German Jew who fled Nazi Germany and sought refuge in Palestine during the British Mandate. Yourgrau arrived in Palestine as a political exile, not as a Zionist, and the article delves into the political landscape of the time, including tensions between different factions of Zionism and the growing divide between Jews and Arabs. It also highlights the challenges faced by German-speaking Jewish refugees in Palestine and the cultural tensions they encountered. The article emphasizes the need to remain vigilant against fascism and toxic nationalism, even within Zionist movements. Additionally, the article discusses the history of the German-language journal Orient, founded by Yourgrau, which aimed to provide a platform for German-speaking Jews in Palestine. The journal faced opposition from various groups, including Zionists and socialists, and ultimately ceased publication after being bombed in 1943. The article reflects on the evolving perspectives of Yourgrau and other contributors to the journal, particularly in relation to the establishment of the state of Israel and its subsequent actions. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the impact of Florida's six-week abortion ban on women seeking abortions in the state. It shares the stories of patients who are denied care due to the ban and discusses the challenges faced by healthcare providers. The article also mentions Amendment 4, a ballot initiative that aims to establish a constitutional right to abortion in Florida. It emphasizes the significance of this initiative and the broader fight for abortion rights in the state. The article also touches on the efforts of activists and organizations to raise awareness and funds for abortion access, including the use of alternative methods like mail-order pills. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the rise of influencer chefs and the popularity of short cooking videos on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. These videos prioritize spectacle and sensory stimulation, using quick cuts, close-ups, and exaggerated sound effects to engage viewers. While these videos lack detailed recipes or instructions, they highlight the unique styles of popular influencer chefs. The article reflects on the shift in culinary entertainment from shows like Chef's Table to the new trend of influencer chefs, which emphasizes skill, artisanship, and the mechanics of cooking. It also discusses the documentary Menus-Plaisirs—Les Troisgros, which focuses on the small pleasures and labor of kitchen work at a three-Michelin-star restaurant in France. The new food TV aims to celebrate skill and be admired, reflecting a desire to be close to the culinary action without getting involved in the messy business of cooking. [Extracted from the article]

The article provides an overview of the upcoming Senate race in Montana between incumbent Democrat Jon Tester and Republican challenger Tim Sheehy. It highlights the changing political landscape in Montana and discusses Tester's background as a farmer and his previous electoral victories. The article also explores the impact of polarization on voter perceptions and mentions Tester's legislative achievements in areas such as veterans' affairs and clean water projects. It concludes by emphasizing the influence of attack ads and the importance of local news sources in informing voters. [Extracted from the article]

Palestinian filmmaker Mohammad Bakri is facing censorship and legal consequences for his new film "Janin Jenin," which challenges the Israeli narrative and gives voice to Palestinian survivors. Bakri's previous documentary, "Jenin, Jenin," was banned and he faced defamation lawsuits, death threats, and a grenade attack on his home. The article discusses the increasing crackdown on free speech and dissent in Israel, particularly targeting Palestinian citizens and those who oppose Israel's offensive in Gaza. The impact of this suppression extends beyond Israel's borders, with a Palestinian citizen of Israel being granted asylum in the UK after claiming that Israel maintains an apartheid system. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the relationship between right-wing billionaires and former President Donald Trump. It highlights the involvement of Jeffrey Yass, a Pennsylvania-based investor, who asked Trump to speak at a retreat for the Club for Growth, a powerful right-wing business PAC. Yass, who has a stake in TikTok, also bankrolled a merger deal for Trump's media platform, Truth Social. The article suggests that Trump is easily influenced by wealthy donors and explores the potential for these billionaires to gain political influence in a second Trump administration. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the ideas and impact of Frantz Fanon, a prominent figure in anti-colonial and postcolonial studies. Fanon's writings condemn colonialism and its effects on both the colonized and the colonizer, emphasizing the importance of decolonization and self-determination for oppressed peoples. The article also connects Fanon's ideas to contemporary issues such as the Israeli bombardment of Gaza and global anti-corruption movements. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of solidarity with the Palestinians and the refusal to abandon their home. [Extracted from the article]

In "Burnout: The Emotional Experience of Political Defeat" by Hannah Proctor, the author examines the emotional toll of political activism and the challenges faced by activists in maintaining resilience and commitment to their cause. Proctor explores the relationship between wounded attachment to a movement and revolutionary commitment, as well as the potential for bitterness and melancholy to replace hope and mourning. The article references literature, films, and historical events to illustrate these concepts and suggests that embracing vulnerability and grief can lead to strength and wholeness within the activist community. [Extracted from the article]

This article highlights Larry David, a Brooklyn-raised comedian known for his acid-tongued and funny Jewish humor. Alongside other Brooklyn Jews like Mel Brooks, Woody Allen, and Joan Rivers, David used comedy to address dark subjects, including Jewish oppression. While many Jewish comedians have moved away from this focus, David remains one of the few who defies Hollywood's "wokeness" and mocks all people, including himself. The article also provides an overview of David's life and career, including his involvement in creating the successful show Seinfeld. It explores the differences between David and Jerry Seinfeld's comedic styles and characters on the show, as well as David's subsequent projects, such as Curb Your Enthusiasm. The final season of Curb Your Enthusiasm is described as more explicitly political, but the author still admires David's comedic talent and humanistic approach. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides an overview of President Joe Biden's foreign policy, with a focus on the Middle East and the recent attack by Hamas on Israel. It references a book called "The Internationalists" by Alexander Ward, which examines the first two years of Biden's foreign-policy team but does not cover the attack or its aftermath. The article discusses the strengths and weaknesses of Biden's advisers and their goals of ending wars and restoring America's reputation. It also provides background information on key figures in Biden's team. The article critiques Ward's book for its narrow focus on the A-Team's perspective and suggests that it could have explored the contradictions of US foreign policy in more depth. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the influence of right-wing evangelical Christians who see Donald Trump as a prophet and savior. It discusses a campaign video portraying Trump as a messianic figure and examines the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), a revivalist movement that has gained support among MAGA followers and promotes Christian nationalist ideals. The article emphasizes the role of charismatic worship and business-driven grievance politics in the rise of the NAR and its impact on the Trump movement. It also highlights the NAR's involvement in the January 6 insurrection and its alliance with the MAGA movement, as well as its growing affinity for racist and authoritarian extremism. [Extracted from the article]

"Blue Ruin" by Hari Kunzru is a novel that tells the story of Jay, a delivery driver in upstate New York who is grappling with the aftermath of Covid-19. Jay, who is also a conceptual artist, struggles to find a balance between his art and the realities of everyday life. The book delves into the challenges faced by artists who are dedicated to their craft but must navigate the complexities of the world around them. Kunzru's trilogy, including "Blue Ruin," explores the tension between work and artistic aspirations, with the protagonists' lives shaped by historical injustices and personal struggles. The reviewer praises the novel for its exploration of themes such as race and the intrusion of reality into creative expression, but also criticizes it for not fully developing its ideas and becoming overly dramatic in response to world events. [Extracted from the article]

Tiya Miles's book, Night Flyer: Harriet Tubman and the Faith Dreams of a Free People, offers a fresh and original perspective on the life of Harriet Tubman. Miles explores Tubman's deep connection to nature and her spiritual beliefs, challenging the traditional narrative of Tubman as a one-dimensional hero. The book also highlights Tubman's resilience and her role as a caretaker, while acknowledging her flaws and the ethical dilemmas she faced. Overall, Night Flyer presents Tubman as a complex and multifaceted figure, representative of the struggles and strengths of Black women during her time. [Extracted from the article]

The newspaper industry is in decline, with an average of 2.5 newspapers closing every week in the United States. This has led to the loss of one-third of the country's newspapers and two-thirds of its newspaper journalists since 2005. As a result, there are over 200 "news deserts" in the country where local government, law enforcement, and businesses face little media scrutiny. Digital media has also not been able to adequately replace traditional newspapers, with major digital media outlets like Vice and BuzzFeed facing layoffs. Despite these challenges, The Nation continues to publish a variety of articles on topics such as activism, housing, and politics. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a historical account of Hart Island, New York City's public cemetery and potter's field, where the unclaimed, unidentified, and indigent have been buried since 1869. It focuses on the story of a child buried on the island, known as SC-B1, who was believed to be the first child to have died of AIDS in New York City. The author investigates the child's identity and the early days of the AIDS epidemic in the city, shedding light on the impact it had on marginalized communities, particularly children. The article also discusses the challenges faced by children with AIDS and the advancements in HIV treatment that have allowed them to survive and thrive. Additionally, it highlights the experiences of Michelle Lopez, the mother of SC-B1, who fought for access to treatments and resources for children with HIV/AIDS. The article emphasizes the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and the importance of remembering those affected by the disease. [Extracted from the article]

This article examines the poor conditions of urban schools in America, with a specific focus on an elementary school in Boston named after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The school, which primarily serves Black students, is in a state of disrepair and has a low academic rating. The article also highlights the prevalence of lead-based paint and other toxins in older schools, which disproportionately affects children of color. Insufficient funding for school infrastructure and the persistence of austerity budgets contribute to the ongoing neglect of these schools. The article further discusses the issue of underfunding in public schools, particularly in low-income and minority communities. It emphasizes the disparity between affluent suburban districts, which can compensate for funding gaps through private fundraising or property taxes, and inner-city schools that lack resources. The article also addresses the impact of funding cuts on teaching staff, including the loss of art, music, and library programs. It explores the negative consequences of austerity measures on pedagogic practices and the mental well-being of teachers. Ultimately, the article underscores the importance of equitable funding and access to quality education for all children. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the conflict between progressive officials and the political and business elite in Los Angeles. City Councilmember Nithya Raman, who advocates for renter protections, affordable housing, workers' rights, and campaign finance reforms, is facing a campaign by the elite to remove her from office. Raman's election in 2020 and other progressive victories have shifted the balance of power in City Hall and led to the implementation of progressive policies. The Committee of 25, which once held significant political power, has lost influence due to out-of-state corporations and absentee-owned firms. Two opposing forces, a coalition of local business groups and predominantly white homeowner associations, and a progressive coalition led by labor unions and community organizations, are competing for political influence. Thrive LA, a group seeking to weaken tenant and worker protections, is working against progressive candidates like Raman. Raman has formed alliances with organized labor and has the support of environmentalists, Bernie Sanders supporters, and progressive electoral groups. The upcoming election in LA is considered crucial for the progressive movement, with potential implications for other cities. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the life and career of musician Lou Reed, with a particular focus on his time with the band the Velvet Underground. It discusses Reed's unique musical style, combining drones and traditional song form, as well as his direct and straightforward lyrics. The article also touches on Reed's relationships, including his connection with Andy Warhol and his troubled partnership with Rachel Humphreys. It acknowledges Reed's struggles with addiction and the impact it had on his personal and professional life. Despite his contentious relationship with journalists, Reed's talent and success as a musician were undeniable. [Extracted from the article]

This article delves into the history of the opium trade and its impact on America and Britain. It traces the origins of opium as a medicinal substance and its spread from Anatolia. The Mongol Empire and the Dutch East India Company played key roles in its propagation in Asia. The British used opium to pay for Chinese tea imports, benefiting prominent families and institutions in both Britain and the United States. The article also explores the connection between the United States and China, dating back to the early days of the republic, and how the China trade influenced American memory and culture. It specifically focuses on American merchants' involvement in the opium trade in China during the 19th century, highlighting their success and wealth gained from it. The article also mentions the failure of one American merchant in Guangzhou. Amitav Ghosh's forthcoming book, Smoke and Ashes: Opium's Hidden Histories, further explores this topic and emphasizes the importance of understanding this history to challenge xenophobic and anti-immigrant narratives surrounding narcotics issues in the United States. [Extracted from the article]

The article provides an overview of the events and individuals that shaped the year 2023. It covers ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as the political landscape in the United States, with Donald Trump still influential within the Republican Party. The article also highlights positive developments, such as the success of labor movements and progressive policies advocated by congressional progressives. It profiles several individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, including labor leader Shawn Fain, climate activists Rebecca Solnit and Thelma Young Lutunatabua, historian Rashid Khalidi, House member Cori Bush, constitutionalist Jamie Raskin, and Senator Jeff Merkley. The article emphasizes the bold contributions made by various individuals and groups in different areas, including efforts to remove a loophole in the Constitution's 13th Amendment, protests against gun violence, the role of young voters in elections, leadership in the peace movement during the war in Gaza, rigorous coverage of the conflict by Haaretz, the activism of a blind and chronically ill artist and author, and a powerful speech by Tom Morello at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the question of whether a cause can still be just, even if atrocities have been committed on its behalf. The author reflects on the Allied bombing of German cities during World War II and the current situation in Gaza to explore this issue. They argue that while atrocities do not necessarily make a cause unjust, they cannot be ignored, and attention should be paid to differences in quantity, proportion, and circumstances. The author emphasizes the importance of holding accountable those responsible for atrocities and calls for an immediate end to the bombing. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the Democratic Party's reliance on candidates' resumes and the belief in the power of knowledge and credentials. It highlights Joe Biden as the epitome of the party's insider model of power, but also acknowledges that voters have shown a distrust of traditional meritocratic rule. The article argues that the party's strategy should focus on expanding its own base rather than relying on persuadable voters from the opposing party. It also suggests that the rejection of Bernie Sanders' base-expanding approach in previous elections may have contributed to the party's current challenges. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the surprising rise of Vice President Kamala Harris as a presidential nominee and the impact it has had on the Democratic Party. After President Joe Biden ended his reelection campaign, he endorsed Harris as the new nominee, who then chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Democratic voters rallied behind Harris and Walz, leading to a significant shift in their favor in swing-state polls. The article highlights Harris's progressive stance on various issues, such as climate change, trade, free college, student debt, and reproductive rights. It also emphasizes the support she has received from prominent progressive figures like Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The author, who has known Harris for over two decades, believes that her surge in popularity is a result of the desire for a champion who will push for new values among young voters, people of color, and progressives. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges faced by Republicans who have chosen Donald Trump as their 2024 presidential nominee. It highlights the difficulty of maintaining consistent excuses for Trump's mistakes and the lack of coherence in their explanations. The article argues that the Republican Party has become a "Big Lie" where loyalty to Trump has replaced Republican values and conservative ideology. It also mentions a few dissidents who have criticized Trump but are marginalized within the party. The article concludes by expressing hope that the truth will prevail in the upcoming election. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a collection of letters from readers published in the journal "Nation." The letters cover a range of topics, including jazz, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, small farmers' rights, FBI covert operations, and Jewish activism in US labor history. The letters express diverse perspectives and provide insights into these subjects. [Extracted from the article]

The article titled "Covid, Year Four" discusses the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the trade-offs that have been made in response to it. The author criticizes both liberals and conservatives for their respective approaches to the pandemic. They argue that liberals are in denial about the ongoing threat of the virus, while conservatives are actively undermining public health measures. The article emphasizes the need for a collective discussion about the trade-offs that have been made and the ongoing impact of the pandemic. It also highlights the attacks on public health from conservative lawmakers and the revisionist history surrounding the response to the pandemic. Overall, the article presents a critical perspective on the state of the pandemic in its fourth year. [Extracted from the article]