Freedom Rings in South Dakota

Liberty and Justice for All Urges Public to Observe World AIDS Day and Advocate for PEPFAR Reauthorization

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 16:08:56 GMT

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Contact:

Annie Bachand

Liberty Justice For All

Phone: (605) 389-3122‬

Email: annie@libertyjusticeforall.org

Website: http://www.libertyjusticeforall.org

Liberty and Justice for All Urges Public to Observe World AIDS Day and Advocate for PEPFAR Reauthorization

Rapid City, SD – December 1, 2023 – Liberty and Justice for All, a leading advocate for human rights and human health, is calling upon the public to mark World AIDS Day today by joining the initiative to contact Congress and request the reauthorization of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). With its remarkable achievements in HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, PEPFAR has played a pivotal role in the fight against this global health crisis.

PEPFAR, initially proposed by President George W. Bush in 2003, has consistently demonstrated its ability to save lives and make a measurable difference in combating HIV/AIDS. The program has not only saved 25 million lives but has also prevented millions of mother-to-child transmissions of the virus. Furthermore, it has significantly strengthened healthcare systems in many countries, bolstered the United States' standing and trust in global health initiatives, and set the world on the path to eliminating AIDS by 2030.

Former President George W. Bush recently emphasized the tangible impact of PEPFAR, stating, "American taxpayers' money is making a huge difference, a measurable difference in saving lives: 25 million people. This program needs to be funded. For the skeptics, all I ask is, look at the results. If the results don't impress you, nothing will impress you." [ Source: NPR ]

One striking example of PEPFAR's success is Botswana, which became the first country to achieve WHO's "silver level" recognition on the path to ending AIDS. In 2021, Botswana reached over 95% of pregnant women with anti-retroviral therapy (ART), up from 77% in 2010, and reduced its mother-to-child transmission rate to a remarkable 2.2% in 2022, down from 40% in 1999.

PEPFAR's monumental accomplishments in global health have transcended partisan boundaries, serving as a testament to its effectiveness as a bipartisan success. However, the work is far from over, and it is imperative that Congress reauthorizes PEPFAR this year to ensure its continued success in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

To make a difference and show your support for PEPFAR's reauthorization, Liberty and Justice for All urges individuals to contact their congressional representatives via phone or email through their respective websites. The following are the contact details for South Dakota's congressional representatives:

- Sen. John Thune

- Phone (DC): 1-866-850-3855

- Phone (Local): 605-334-9596 (Sioux Falls)

- Email: Sen. Thune's Email

- Sen. Mike Rounds

- Phone (DC): 1-844-875-5268

- Phone (Local): 605-336-0486 (Sioux Falls)

- Email: Sen. Rounds' Email

- Rep. Dusty Johnson

- Phone (DC): 1-855-225-2801

- Phone (Local): 605-275-2868 (Sioux Falls)

- Email: Rep. Johnson's Email

Liberty and Justice for All extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those who choose to be a vital voice in the campaign for PEPFAR's reauthorization. Together, we can continue to make a significant impact on the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

For more information about Liberty and Justice for All and its advocacy efforts, please visit our website.

About Liberty and Justice for All:

Liberty Justice For All works in the intersectionality of public health outcomes and civic engagement. Liberty and Justice for All recognizes South Dakota as a state that has been a launching pad for some of the craziest legislation in the country. And we recognize that the people living within the designated territory identified as South Dakota have a rich history of deeply committed individuals and advocacy groups who have fought tirelessly to ensure that the voices of all South Dakotans are heard. We honor their work and commit to learning from them and working with them to expand our collective impact. It is only through civic engagement and active participation in the democratic process that we can achieve true liberty and justice for all.

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Poverty in the US

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 20:39:38 GMT

America’s Poor Are Worse Off Than Elsewhere

The myth that the poor in the United States are not so bad off can be found in a wide range of places. It basically reflects the idea that those in poverty have nothing to complain about – that given the conditions in less developed countries, things could be much worse.

It is certainly true that if we compare the U.S. to countries in sub-Saharan Africa, physical poverty in the U.S. is obviously less extreme. The United States does not have the widespread famine and severe stunting of children that is sometimes found in extremely poor countries.

However, most analysts would argue that the more relevant comparison would be the group of other high economy countries such as those found in the European Union, Canada, Japan, Australia, and so on. In comparing poverty in the U.S. to these OECD countries, we find that American poverty is both more prevalent and more extreme.

How Does the U.S. Compare to Other Countries?

In Table 1 we can compare poverty rates across 26 OECD countries. In this table, poverty is being measured as the percent of the population falling below one half of a particular country’s median household income. This is what is known as a relative measure of poverty, and is used extensively in making cross-national comparisons. The first column shows the overall poverty rate for each country; the second column displays the poverty rate for children; and the third column indicates the percentage distance from the poverty line to the average income of those in poverty.

Table 1. Extent of Poverty across 26 OECD Countries

See table below

What we find is that the U.S. rates of poverty are substantially higher and more extreme than those found in the other 25 nations. The overall U.S. rate using this measure stands at 17.8 percent, compared to the 25 country average of 10.7 percent. The Scandinavian and Benelux countries tend to have the lowest rates of poverty. For example, the overall rate of poverty in Denmark is only 5.5 percent.

Looking at the poverty rates for children we see similar patterns. The United States again leads all nations in having the highest rates of child poverty at 20.9 percent, while the overall average stands at 11.7 percent. Again, we see the Scandinavian countries having the lowest rates of child poverty, with Denmark seeing only 2.9 percent of its children falling into poverty.

Finally, the third column indicates the poverty gap, which is defined as the percentage by which the average income of the poor falls below the poverty line. This gives us an overall gauge of the depth and severity of poverty in each country. Once again we find that the United States is at the very high end in terms of this measure. The distance between the poor’s average income and the poverty line is nearly 40 percent. Only Italy has a greater poverty gap than the U.S.

To summarize, when analyzing poverty as the number of persons who fall below 50 percent of a country’s median income, we find that the United States has far and away the highest overall poverty rate in this group of 26 developed nations. Furthermore, the distance of the poor from the overall median income is extreme in the U.S. At the same time the United States is arguably the wealthiest nation in the world.

This paradox is revealed in additional analyses that have examined how well children and adults from the lower, middle, and upper ends of the income scale do. Not surprisingly, the United States has the highest standards of living at the middle and upper ends of the income distribution scale, yet for children at the lower end, their standards of living fall behind most other industrialized nations.

The reasons for such a discrepancy are twofold. First, as discussed in Discussion Module 8, the social safety net in the United States is much weaker than in virtually every other country in Table 1. Second, the United States has been plagued by relatively low wages at the bottom of the income distribution scale when compared to other developed countries. These factors combine to contribute to both the relative and absolute depths of U.S. poverty in comparison to other industrialized nations.

Read the article

November 17, 2023 - Heather Cox Richardson

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 19:45:12 GMT

People much smarter and me have been writing alot on Israel and Palestine. I appreciate how Heather Cox Richardson provides insight, information and an opportunity for considering a larger picture, Annie Bachand, Liberty Justice For All

November 17, 2023

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

In an NPR piece yesterday, Bill Chappell noted that “the war between Israel and Hamas is being fought, in part, through disinformation and competing claims.”

Khalil al-Hayya, a member of Hamas’s leadership team currently in Qatar, told Ben Hubbard and Maria Abi-Habib of the New York Times that Hamas’s goal in their attack of October 7, 2023, when Hamas terrorists crossed from Gaza into Israel and tortured and killed about 1,200 people, taking another 240 hostage, was to make sure the region did not settle into a status quo that excluded the Palestinians.

In 2020 the Palestinians were excluded from discussions about the Abraham Accords negotiated by then-president Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner that normalized relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain (and later Morocco). More recently, Saudi Arabia and Israel were in talks with the United States about normalizing relations.

Al-Hayya told the reporters that in order to “change the entire equation and not just have a clash,” Hamas leaders intended to commit “a great act” that Israel would respond to with fury. “[W]ithout a doubt, it was known that the reaction to this great act would be big,” al-Hayya said, but “[w]e had to tell people that the Palestinian cause would not die.”

“Hamas’s goal is not to run Gaza and to bring it water and electricity and such,” al-Hayya said. “This battle was not because we wanted fuel or laborers,” he added. “It did not seek to improve the situation in Gaza. This battle is to completely overthrow the situation.”

Hamas media adviser Taher El-Nounou told the reporters: “I hope that the state of war with Israel will become permanent on all the borders, and that the Arab world will stand with us.”

Hamas could be pretty certain that Israel would retaliate with a heavy hand. The governing coalition that took power at the end of 2022 is a far-right coalition, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu needs to hold that coalition together to stay in power, not least because he faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust.

Once it took power, Netanyahu’s government announced that expanding Israeli settlements in the Palestinian West Bank was a priority, vowing to annex the occupied territory. It also endorsed discrimination against LGBTQ people and called for generous payments to ultra-Orthodox men so they could engage in religious study rather than work. It also tried to push through changes to the judicial system to give far more power to the government.

From January 7 until October 7, 2023, protesters turned out in the streets in huge numbers. With the attack, Israelis have come together until the crisis is resolved.

Netanyahu’s ability to stay in power depended in large part on his promises that he would keep Israelis safe. The events of October 7 on his watch—the worst attack on Jews since the Holocaust—shattered that guarantee. Polls show that Israelis blame his government, and three quarters of them think he should resign. Sixty-four percent think the country should hold an election immediately after the war.

Immediately after the attack, on October 7, Netanyahu vowed “mighty vengeance” against Hamas, and Israeli airstrikes began to pound Gaza. On October 8, Israel formally declared war. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said the country’s retaliation would “change the reality on the ground in Gaza for the next 50 years,” and on October 9 he announced “a complete siege on the Gaza Strip. There will be no electricity, no food, no fuel, everything is closed…. We are fighting human animals and we are acting accordingly.”

Israel and the U.S. have strong historic and economic ties: as Nicole Narea points out in Vox in a review of their history together, the U.S. has also traditionally seen Israel as an important strategic ally as it stabilizes the Middle East, helping to maintain the supply of Middle Eastern oil that the global economy needs. That strategic importance has only grown as the U.S. seeks to normalize ties around the region to form a united front against Iran.

For Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and other envoys, then, it appeared the first priority after the October 7 attack was to keep the conflict from spreading. Biden made it very clear that the U.S. would stand behind Israel should Iran, which backs Hamas, be considering moving in. He warned: “[T]o any country, any organization, anyone thinking of taking advantage of this situation, I have one word: Don’t.”

The movement of two U.S. carrier groups to the region appears so far to be helping to achieve that goal. While Iran-backed Hezbollah fighters from Lebanon and Yemen’s Houthis have fired missiles and drones at Israel since October 7, Iran’s leaders have said they will not join Hamas’s fight and are hoping only to use the conflict as leverage against the U.S.

Militias have fired at least 55 rocket and drone strikes at U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria since October 7 without killing any U.S. soldiers. In retaliation, the U.S. has launched three airstrikes against militia installations in Syria, killing up to seven men (the military assesses there were not women or children in the vicinity) in the third strike on Sunday. The U.S. keeps roughly 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 troops in Iraq to work with local forces to prevent the resurgence of the Islamic State.

At the same time that Biden emphasized Israel’s right to respond to Hamas’s attack and demanded the return of the hostages, he also called for humanitarian aid to Gaza through Egypt and warned Netanyahu to stay within the laws of war.

Rounds of diplomacy by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who flew to Israel and Jordan initially on October 11 and has gone back repeatedly, as well as by Biden, who has both visited the region—his second trip to a war zone—and constantly worked the phones, and other envoys, started humanitarian convoys moving into Gaza with a single 20-truck convoy on October 21. By early November, over 100 trucks a day were entering Gaza, the number the United Nations says is the minimum needed. Yesterday the Israeli war cabinet agreed to allow two tankers of fuel a day into Gaza after the U.N. said it couldn’t deliver aid because it had run out of fuel.

The U.S. has insisted from the start that Israel’s military decisions must not go beyond the laws of war. Israeli officials say they are staying within the law, yet an estimated 11,000 civilians and Hamas fighters (the numbers are not separated out) have died. Gaza has been crushed into rubble by airstrikes, and more than a million people are homeless. That carnage has sparked protests around the world along with calls for a cease-fire, which Israel rejects.

It has also sparked extreme Islamophobia and antisemitism exacerbated by social media. In the immediate aftermath of October 7, Islamophobia inspired a Chicago man to stab a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy to death; more recently, antisemitism has jumped more than 900% on X (formerly Twitter). On Wednesday, Elon Musk agreed with a virulently antisemitic post on X. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates responded: “We condemn this abhorrent promotion of Antisemitic and racist hate in the strongest terms, which runs against our core values as Americans.” Advertisers, including IBM and Apple, announced they would no longer advertise on Musk’s platform.

While calling for humanitarian pauses in the fighting, the Biden administration has continued to focus on getting the hostages out and has rejected calls for a cease-fire, saying such a break would only allow Hamas to regroup. In The Atlantic on November 14, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who negotiated a 2012 cease-fire between Hamas and Israel only to see Hamas violate that agreement two years later, explained that cease-fires have only kicked the can down the road. “Israel’s policy since 2009 of containing rather than destroying Hamas has failed,” she said.

Clinton called for the destruction of Hamas on the one hand and “a new strategy and new leadership” for Israel on the other. “Instead of the current ultra-right-wing government, it will need a government of national unity that’s rooted in the center of Israeli politics and can make the hard choices ahead,” she wrote.

Central to those choices is the long-neglected two-state solution that would establish a Palestinian state. Biden and Blinken and a number of Arab governments have backed the idea, but to many observers it seems impossible to pull off. Still, at the same time Clinton’s article appeared, King Abdullah II of Jordan published his own op-ed in the Washington Post titled: “A two-state solution would be a victory for our common humanity.”

“[L]et’s start with some basic reality,” he wrote. “The fact is that the thousands of victims across Israel, Gaza and the West Bank have been overwhelmingly civilians…. Leaders everywhere have the responsibility to face the full reality of this crisis, as ugly as it is. Only by anchoring ourselves to the concrete facts that have brought us to this point will we be able to change the increasingly dangerous direction of our world….

“If the status quo continues, the days ahead will be driven by an ongoing war of narratives over who is entitled to hate more and kill more. Sinister political agendas and ideologies will attempt to exploit religion. Extremism, vengeance and persecution will deepen not only in the region but also around the world…. It is up to responsible leaders to deliver results, starting now.”

—

Notes:

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/08/world/middleeast/hamas-israel-gaza-war.html

https://www.npr.org/2023/11/16/1212889717/satellite-images-us-israel-gaza

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/irans-axis-resistance-against-israel-faces-trial-by-fire-2023-11-15/

https://www.thedefensepost.com/2023/11/16/us-troops-iraq-syria-attacked/

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/up-seven-killed-us-air-strikes-syria-us-official-2023-11-14/

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2023/10/10/remarks-by-president-biden-on-the-terrorist-attacks-in-israel-2/#:~:text=Let%20me%20say%20again%20%E2%80%94%20to,but%20our%20resolve%20is%20clear .

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/saudi-arabia-puts-israel-deal-ice-amid-war-engages-with-iran-sources-say-2023-10-13/

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/03/world/middleeast/netanyahu-corruption-charges-israel.html

https://talkingpointsmemo.com/edblog/history-its-importance-and-irrelevance-plus-some-books

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/9/17/three-years-on-how-have-the-abraham-accords-done-for-the-uae

https://www.usip.org/publications/2023/09/saudi-israel-normalization-agreement-horizon

https://apnews.com/article/west-bank-benjamin-netanyahu-israel-government-e36ed7260e0398406d9a8ba319b0b741

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/protesters-outside-israeli-pm-netanyahus-house-anger-grows-2023-11-04/

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israels-netanyahu-vows-mighty-vengeance-against-hamas-2023-10-07/

https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/defense-minister-announces-complete-siege-of-gaza-no-power-food-or-fuel/

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-tells-gazans-move-south-or-risk-being-seen-terrorist-partner-2023-10-22/

https://talkingpointsmemo.com/edblog/who-takes-over-gaza

https://www.vox.com/world-politics/23916266/us-israel-support-ally-gaza-war-aid

https://il.usembassy.gov/secretary-blinkens-travel-to-israel-and-jordan/

https://www.cnn.com/2023/10/17/politics/inside-joe-biden-israel-trip-planning/index.html

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/attack-gaza-hospital-unprecedented-scale-who-says-2023-10-17/

https://www.state.gov/humanitarian-assistance-for-gaza/

Boycott Starbucks

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 18:01:21 GMT

"Empowering Change: Supporting the Starbucks Boycott and Voting for Workers' Rights"

Supporting the Starbucks boycott and voting with our money to stop union busting is a powerful way to champion workers' rights and fair labor practices. As consumers, we have the privilege and responsibility to choose where we spend our hard-earned money, and this can be a potent tool for change. The recent revelations of union-busting tactics at Starbucks, as reported by The Guardian, underline the importance of collective action.

According to the Guardian, "Calls for a consumer boycott of Starbucks are growing amid mounting criticism of the coffee chain’s aggressive union-busting activities.

A boycott, supporters say, would aim to use consumer power to pressure Starbucks to stop its union-busting and illegal actions and to finally negotiate its first union contract.

The baristas’ union, Starbucks Workers United, is having internal discussions about when and whether to mount a boycott. At the moment, in addition to organizing stores, it is focused on increasing consumer support."

By refraining from patronizing a company that engages in such practices, we send a clear message that we stand in solidarity with workers seeking to exercise their right to organize and advocate for better working conditions. Our purchasing decisions are not just about a cup of coffee; they are an expression of our values and our commitment to a more just and equitable world.

Calls for a Starbucks boycott increased after Cornell University, facing intense student pressure, announced in August that it would kick the company off campus by no longer serving Starbucks in its dining halls. That came after students occupied Cornell’s main administrative building and after Starbucks closed all three of its stores in Ithaca, New York. All three were unionized, making Ithaca the first American city where every Starbucks was unionized.

“When we heard that Starbucks was closing all those stores, we asked, What can we do?” said Nick Wilson, a Cornell sophomore and a leader of the effort to oust Starbucks. “We thought if Starbucks is going to get out of Ithaca, we should get them all the way out. They shouldn’t be profiting off our campus and our community.”

Wilson said students from nearly 30 colleges had contacted him about launching efforts to kick Starbucks off their campuses. If the Starbucks union launches a consumer boycott, Wilson said, “young people would certainly be in favor. Young people’s support for unions is second nature at this point.”

Students at the University of Washington and across the University of California system have also called for ousting Starbucks from campus. Starbucks union members say they know of such efforts at a dozen other campuses.

“We’re seeing Cornell and other student actions popping up,” said Michelle Eisen, a Starbucks barista in Buffalo. “We welcome that. We think that’s amazing.”

Those calling for a boycott say they hope it will be as successful as the United Farm Workers’ famous 1960s grape boycott under the civil rights activist Cesar Chavez.

Marshall Ganz, who was that union’s organizing director under Chavez, told the Guardian, “I think a Starbucks boycott could be great. But it would take a lot of work.”

Ganz said the grape boycott succeeded because not just farm workers backed it, but because “it was students, civil rights groups, churches, labor unions. We organized constituencies to back us in this city and that city.”

Ganz, now a professor at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, said: “If they try driving Starbucks off campuses, that would be hell of a campaign. There’s a lot of leverage there.”

More than 350 Starbucks have been unionized, the first ones 21 months ago, but Starbucks hasn’t reached a contract with even one of them. The US labor law watchdog, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), has filed 100 complaints against Starbucks, an extraordinarily high number, that accuse it of more than 1,000 illegal actions, including illegally firing dozens of pro-union baristas, closing recently unionized stores and not bargaining in good faith.

In the face of corporate misconduct, this boycott is a means to hold companies accountable and promote a culture of respect and fairness in the workplace. It's a call to action, reminding us that change begins with our wallets, and it's time to use them for the greater good.

**https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/sep/13/starbucks-boycott-union-busting

Immediate Release Clemency or Compassionate Release of Leonard Peltier

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 17:57:11 GMT

Liberty Justice for All & Urban Roots Ancient Wisdom, join NDN Collective, Amnesty International, and 33 Members of the United States Congress Unite to Urge President Biden for Clemency or Compassionate Release of Leonard Peltier.

Being An Ally

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:17:56 GMT

Standing as an Ally with Indigenous Peoples

Being an Ally

October 9, 2023, was Indigenous People’s Day, a significant occasion that honors and celebrates the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous peoples across the Americas and around the world. This day recognizes the enduring resilience of Indigenous communities while fostering awareness and appreciation for their unique traditions and struggles. It is a time to reflect on the importance of acknowledging the Indigenous heritage that forms an integral part of our shared human history and to support the ongoing efforts to protect the rights and dignity of Indigenous peoples in our global society.

It is time to stand as an ally with Indigenous peoples. Being an ally with Indigenous peoples involves showing respect, understanding, and support for their land, sovereignty, rights, cultures, and communities. Here are seven ways to be an ally with Indigenous peoples:

1. Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about the history, cultures, and issues facing Indigenous peoples in your region and around the world. Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to Indigenous voices to gain a better understanding of their experiences.

2. Acknowledge Indigenous Land: Begin events, gatherings, or meetings by acknowledging the traditional Indigenous land on which you stand. This is a respectful way to honor the Indigenous peoples who have lived on and cared for the land for generations.

3. Listen and Amplify Indigenous Voices: Actively seek out and listen to the perspectives of Indigenous individuals and communities. Share their stories, art, and voices to help amplify their messages and experiences.

4. Respect Indigenous Traditions and Cultures: Show respect for Indigenous cultures, practices, and traditions. Avoid cultural appropriation and understand that Indigenous cultures are not costumes or commodities.

5. Support Indigenous-Owned Businesses: Whenever possible, support Indigenous-owned businesses and initiatives. This helps empower Indigenous communities economically and fosters self-sufficiency.

6. Advocate for Indigenous Rights: Stand up for Indigenous rights by supporting legislation and policies that protect their land, resources, and sovereignty. Advocate for justice, equity, and the recognition of treaties and land rights.

7. Engage in Allyship Organizations: Join or support organizations that work to support Indigenous peoples, such as advocacy groups, cultural preservation organizations, or social justice initiatives. Participate in events and campaigns that raise awareness and funds for Indigenous causes.

Remember that being an ally is an ongoing commitment, and it involves actively challenging and dismantling stereotypes, biases, and discriminatory practices that negatively affect Indigenous communities. Respect, empathy, and a willingness to learn and grow are key components of effective allyship.

11-year-old trans girl’s plea for “peace”

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 18:53:41 GMT

11-year-old trans girl’s plea for “peace” leaves school board speechless

“I came here not to fight, but to make peace. How? I’m going to tell a story.”

By Bil Browning Wednesday, October 4, 2023 · Updated on October 5, 2023

Jessie Sirivanchai passionate defense of his little girl , Alison, made national news last week, but her moving speech before Cherry Creek School District is now going viral.

In a trembling voice, the 11-year-old told the members (and adults who said despicable things about her) that she wanted “to make peace.”

“I am here to address the board as the father of Alison,” Sirivanchai said before she spoke, according to journalist Erin Reed’s reporting . “If you’ve known her her whole life, you know this is who she’s always been.”

“It has nothing to do with politics. It has nothing to do with being woke. It has nothing to do with any of this weird stuff. It’s just she wants to go to the school, and she looks like this,” he said before asking if she’d like to speak.

That’s when Alison stepped forward and stunned the room into silence.

“Hello fathers, daughters, mothers, and everybody else who came here today with fear, anger, and confusion… three feelings that hurt inside badly. I came here not to fight, but to make peace. How am I going to do that? I’m going to tell a story.”

Watch her speech above .

South Dakota child care gaps alarm business, political leaders

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 18:38:38 GMT

South Dakota child care gaps alarm business, political leaders

The complex issue of child care burdens families across the state. As the topic directly affects the next generation of South Dakotans, now is the time for movement from leaders.

SDPB Radio | By C.J. Keene

Published October 4, 2023 at 3:54 PM CDT

The complex issue of child care burdens families across the state. As the topic directly affects the next generation of South Dakotans, now is the time for movement from leaders.

At a recent child care town hall hosted by SDPB’s Jackie Hendry, leaders from state’s political and business communities shared their commitments to improving resources for both families and providers.

One speaker was Kayla Klein, director of Early Learner South Dakota. She said there is a fundamental problem with the child care business model, which receives no state funding.

“We have about 29,000 children who actually qualify for child care assistance, 1,800 – only 7% - are actually receiving child care subsidies," Klein said. "We have thousands of children in South Dakota, living in the crisis of poverty, and we’re not even reaching them.”

Further, turnover, inflation and poor pay standards aren’t doing the industry any favors. The average pay of a child care provider in South Dakota is $10.97 an hour.

“Think of trying to run a business if you have 80% turnover – even 60% turnover – the amount of training and hiring and costs that go into that is incredible," Klein said. "When every other market’s new minimum wage is $15, $20 an hour, possibly benefits – which by the way, most child care in-home or center-based do not provide either – why would we stay there for minimum wage and high stress? Has anyone been in a room with 10 two-year-olds?”

With the state slow to draw on the issue, some have turned to the business community for solutions. David Owen, president of the state Chamber of Commerce, said this issue is a priority for him.

“My board now has a better understanding of what it might take, and I think you’ll see us between now and the start of the next session embracing Senator (Tim) Reed’s proposals and ideas that says maybe this needs to be for those small businesses that aren’t going to increase wages that much because they’re caught in the same trap child care is – maybe this is a shared resource we ought to talk about using common resources for.”

Child care providers in attendance on the town hall, asked parents to treat your provider as a professional, not a babysitter, and consider donating supplies to the class if possible.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Run for President as Independent, Leaving Democratic Primary

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 18:24:31 GMT

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to Run for President as Independent, Leaving Democratic Primary

The political scion told supporters he would end his campaign as a Democratic candidate and run as an independent, potentially upsetting the dynamics of the 2024 election.

The New York Times
By Rebecca Davis O’Brien

Rebecca Davis O’Brien reported from Philadelphia.

Oct. 9, 2023

Updated 12:58 p.m. ET

New Paragraph

White supremacy propaganda resurges

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 17:44:53 GMT

White supremacy propaganda resurges

“I was taken aback honestly,” she said. “I did not expect anything like that to ever happen, mostly because Augustana is such a safe space for me, and I think most people here. So, to hear that we were having this type of propaganda pop up more than once, and on more than one occasion, was very shocking to me.”

SDPB Radio | By Veda Tonneson

Published October 6, 2023 at 11:09 AM CDT

The beginning of the school year comes with many emotions, but typically not disgust. However, a string of white supremacy propaganda sticker sightings left the community of Augustana University feeling repulsed.

Nora Winckler, a student journalist at Augustana, reported on the propaganda sightings for the Augustana Mirror, the university’s student-run newspaper. Winckler said since September 9 ^th , over a dozen stickers have been found on campus.

The stickers belong to a group called Patriot Front. The Anti-Defamation League calls it a white supremacist group. Their manifesto advocates for a “hard reset” on today’s America and advises “a return to the traditions and virtues of our forefathers.”

Rick Tupper, the Associate Vice President of Campus Safety & Logistics at Augustana University, said the Augustana community first noticed these propaganda stickers last fall. However, they mostly disappeared until now.

“The decals that we’ve been finding just kind of promote that group,” Tupper said. “The decals don’t say anything about hate topics, it’s just more they’re advertising that Patriot Front exists.”

According to Tupper, Patriot Front propaganda has also been seen across Downtown Sioux Falls, and on the campus of South Dakota State University.

The police have been contacted to track the severity of each message. So far, none of the propaganda stickers have been targeting specific groups or inciting any violence.

Willette Capers is the Assistant Vice Provost of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. She told the Mirror there is no room for hate at Augustana. She believes no Augustana student is involved with the placing of these stickers, because they know better than to foster hate.

Tupper said the propaganda sightings have died down since the start of the semester. He encourages students to call campus safety if more stickers are found.

“We don’t want it,” he said. “We don’t want it on our campus, so don’t put in on our campus. So, the challenge is trying to figure out who’s doing it and telling them they aren’t welcome here if that’s what they are trying to push.”

Veda Tonneson

Veda is an English and journalism major at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. She loves writing and storytelling, and she plans to pursue a career as a journalist after graduation.

See stories by Veda Tonneson

Strong

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:17:58 GMT

"We cannot, under any circumstances, allow US support to Ukraine to be interrupted," Mr Biden said.

"I can reassure [Ukraine] we'll get there, that we're going to get it done," he said on restoring funding for the war. "I want to assure our American allies... that you can count on our support, we will not walk away."

In bi-partisan unison elected officials, staff, family and friends remember Senator Dianne Feinstein

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:39:50 GMT

I remember the election of '92 and the incredible women who went to Washington to lead and guide the country. Dianne Feinstein was an icon already, particularly if you had lived in California as I had. Feinstein went on to the other world in 28 of September. When I heard the news my first thought was, she had the last word on when she would be done serving, job well done. Feinstein was elected the first female Senator for California in 1992 and served until her death. In the 2012 election, she received 7.86 million votes, the most popular votes received by any U.S. Senate candidate in history. We salute this incredible life of service.

Biden Becomes the First US President to Visit a Picket Line

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:15:12 GMT

President Joe Biden with UAW President Shawn Fain on Tuesday.Evan Vucci/AP

Joe Biden became the first president in US history to visit a picket line in support of union workers when he joined UAW members on Tuesday during their strike against the Big Three automakers.

“The fact of the matter is that you guys—the UAW—you saved the automobile industry back in 2008 and before,” Biden said to workers in Michigan. “Made a lot of sacrifices. Gave up a lot. And the companies were in trouble. Now they’re doing incredibly well. And guess what? You should be doing incredibly well, too. It’s a simple proposition.”

“Folks, stick with it. You deserve a significant raise and other benefits,” he said through a megaphone, while wearing a UAW baseball cap. “Let’s get back what we lost.”

Get the rest of the story at Mother Jones

Montana Court Blocks Enforcement of Ban on Gender-Affirming Care for Trans Youth

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 00:07:04 GMT

Case: Van Garderen et al v. State of Montana

Affiliate: ACLU of Montana

September 27, 2023 11:10 am

ACLU Missoula, MT – In a press release ACLU reported that a Montana state district court judge today blocked enforcement of Senate Bill 99, the discriminatory law that threatens the health and well-being of Montana transgender youth by denying them access to the only evidence-based care for gender dysphoria. In his order . Judge Jason Marks finds SB 99 “is unlikely to survive any level of constitutional review” and “barring access to gender-affirming care would negatively impact gender dysphoric minors’ mental and physical health.”

Missoula County District Court Judge Jason Marks issued the preliminary injunction preventing enforcement of SB99 following last week’s hearing in the challenge to Montana’s law brought by Lambda Legal, the American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Montana, and Perkins Coie on behalf of three families with transgender youth and two medical providers who work with transgender youth. The preliminary injunction granted today will allow youth to continue to access gender-affirming care as the lawsuit challenging the law proceeds through court.

The plaintiffs argue the law violates their rights under the Montana Constitution, including the right to privacy, equal protection and the right of parents to direct the upbringing of their children. SB 99 was one of several laws considered and passed by the 2023 Legislature targeting transgender Montanans.

“We are gratified the judge understood the danger of denying transgender Montana youth access to gender-affirming care as the challenge to this cruel and discriminatory law proceeds,” said Lambda Legal Staff Attorney Kell Olson. “Transgender youth in Montana will continue to thrive, and removing this looming threat to their well-being is an important step in allowing them to do so.”

“We are so thankful for this opportunity to protect trans youth, their families, and their medical providers from this baseless and dangerous law,” said Malita Picasso, Staff Attorney for the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Project. “While this fight is not over, every day that transgender Montanans are able to access this care is a critical and life-saving victory. We will never stop opposing this ban and all others like it until every transgender person has the care and support they need to thrive.”

“Today’s ruling permits our clients to breathe a sigh of relief,” said Akilah Deernose, Executive Director of the ACLU of Montana. “But this fight is far from over. We look forward to vindicating our clients’ constitutional rights and ensuring that this hateful law never takes effect.”

Federal district courts have blocked such bans in Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. In August 2023, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals allowed Alabama’s ban to take effect while a legal challenge against it proceeds. On September 1, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments on lower court rulings blocking bans in Kentucky and Tennessee and will issue a ruling before September 30.

In June 2023, a federal court in Arkansas struck down that state’s ban on gender-affirming care in the first ruling on the merits of such a law, finding it violated the Equal Protection and Due Process Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment, and First Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Read today’s ruling here .

Gene Lebrun

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Sun, 13 Aug 2023 01:18:45 GMT

Gene Lebrun - A Legacy of Perseverance and Grace

Today, I attended the Celebration of Life for Gene Lebrun. I didn't get to have nearly as many conversations with Gene as I would have liked to and there is no one to blame for that other than me. Gene was a man of stature, he had a kind face, a distinctive voice, and a warmness about him that made you want to listen to what he had to say. Gene left an exceptional legacy to carry forward, one of grace and perseverance. As we step into the future, it is our duty to honor this legacy by embodying these qualities in all that we do. With grace, we can navigate the challenges that lie ahead, treating others with kindness and respect even in the face of adversity. Through perseverance, we can overcome obstacles and strive for excellence, never giving up on our goals and aspirations.

The speakers today particularly, Tom Fritz spoke eloquently of the incredible human Gene was, the effort he exerted to expand conversation, develop more democratic processes including flipping the tables at the law firm he was at for many decades. Tom told of Gene working to develop out the firm to be supportive of the development of the dreams and aspirations of the attorneys who practiced there instead of the other way around.

Just as those who came before us demonstrated unwavering determination and a spirit of resilience, we must continue to cultivate these traits within ourselves and inspire others to do the same. Gene and his wife of 60 years have role-modeled this for us. As Mike DeMersseman said at the Celebration of Life, Gene's library of knowledge won't go up in ashes for his knowledge and wisdom is part of our lives without most of us ever knowing it. Let us remember that this legacy is not just a mere inheritance, but a guiding light that illuminates our path toward success and positive change. Finding things we have in common, being willing to compromise and build collaborations is at the essence of grace and perseverance.

As we forge ahead, let us be the torchbearers of this legacy, spreading its spirit in our actions, interactions, and endeavors. By upholding grace and perseverance, we not only pay homage to the efforts of our ancestors and wise teachers like Gene Lebrun, but also create a better future for generations to come.

Gene Lebrun was born in Langdon, ND on July 4, 1939 to Jules and Marie Lebrun. He grew up working on his father's farm, along with two brothers and four sisters. He spent many hours driving farm vehicles and never lost his love of driving.

First grade was in a one-room country school. In Gene's second grade, the Lebrun children transferred to St. Alphonsus School in Langdon, where Gene graduated from high school in 1957. In high school he was active in the Student Council (President), the school yearbook (co-Editor) Future Farmers of America (Reporter), varsity basketball, and other activities.

Gene attended St. John's University in Collegeville, MN, graduating with a BA degree in Political Science and a minor in History in 1961. While at St. John's he joined the Young Democrats becoming President during the 1960-1961 school year.

After graduating from St. John's in 1961 Gene went to work for the Social Security Administration in Sioux City, IA. He returned to North Dakota to assist in the fall harvest before beginning Law School at the University of North Dakota.

Gene graduated with a J.D. degree from the UND School of Law in 1964. While in law school Gene wrote for the Law Review and represented UND in the First Appellate Moot Court Competition and the National Law Students Annual Meeting in San Francisco.

Gene and Pat Olson were married in 1963 in Langdon, ND and moved to Rapid City, SD in 1964, where their two sons, Mike (in 1967) and Ken (in 1969) were born.

Gene joined the law firm of Whiting, Lynn, Jackson & Shultz, now Lynn, Jackson, Shultz & Lebrun, P.C., where he practiced law until his retirement.

Gene spent his forty-eight years in the general practice of law primarily engaged in representing business clients and advising on intellectual property matters, educational law and utility law. He was a member of the American Bar Association, the American Board of Trial Advocates, the Fellows of the American Bar Foundation, the American Law Institute, and the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. Gene was the 2004 recipient of the prestigious McKusick Award which is given by the USD Law Student Association to a member of the South Dakota Bar for their contributions to the legal profession.

Gene was elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives in the fall of 1970. After being re-elected in 1972, he was elected Speaker of the House, one of the youngest Speakers in the country. The 1973-1974 Sessions had an equal number of Democrats and Republicans in the State House with Representative (now Judge) Larry Piersol as the Democratic Leader and Representative Joe Barnett as the Republican Leader. Cooperation, coordination, and negotiated compromises were the order of the day.

Major legislation passed when Gene was Speaker included the creation of the South Dakota Investment Council, the South Dakota Environmental Protection Act, and the Unified Judicial System. The legislature also passed the Equal Rights Amendment which was rescinded in 1979. Transparency reforms that are still celebrated today were also enacted during Gene's tenure.

In 1976 Governor Richard Kneip appointed Gene to the Uniform Laws Commission (ULC), a renowned national organization dedicated to promoting uniformity among state laws. He remained a South Dakota Commissioner until his death. He was passionately involved in the ULC, serving as Chair of the Executive Committee (1995–1997) and President (1997-1999).

Senator Tom Daschle, Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate, appointed Gene to the Advisory Commission on Electronic Commerce as part of the Internet Tax Freedom Act in 1998. He also was a member of the South Dakota Streamlined Sales Tax Task Force and spoke around the country and internationally about internet transaction taxation.

Gene was a member of the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology Foundation since 1971 and Chairman of the Board of Directors from 1985 to 1989. He served on the Mount Rushmore Society Board of Directors from 2006 to 2019, and as President from 2009 to 2011. He was on the Westhills Village Retirement Community Board of Directors from 1979 to 2014 and Chairman of the Board from 1993 to 1994. He was a member and President of the Westhills Village Foundation Board. He was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame in 2012.

A consistent theme to Gene's life was his commitment to honorable and ethical public service and his determination to be an engaged and active citizen at the local, state and national level. He was a great role model to his sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren, and we are all better for what he accomplished and the example he set.

Gene had a lifelong love of learning, and was a voracious reader. Given his interest in leadership and government and politics, he enjoyed political biographies. He set out to read at least one biography of each U.S. president, amassing an impressive library along the way and sharing his insights with family and friends. He followed the news and current events avidly. Gene had strong opinions, but was always interested in hearing what others had to say. His persuasive skills were impressive, but he never went into a discussion with a closed mind.

In the course of his work and public service endeavors, Gene traveled extensively around South Dakota and the United States. He was a million-mile flyer on United, but really loved a long drive in a good car. He and Pat also enjoyed the opportunity to travel extensively in Asia, North Africa, and Europe.

Gene will be remembered fondly by his wife of 60 years, Pat; his sons: Mike, wife Beth and their adult children: Kate, Nick, and Anna; and Ken, wife Laurie and their adult children: Sylvan and Max; siblings: Dr. Richard Lebrun; Jan Kaylor; Carol (Jerry) Casey; Yvette (Dave) Krech; and Yvonne (Jerry) Lorenz.

TRUMP

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 12:11:09 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Lincoln Project: America Needs to Wake Up
Trump’s Indictment Won’t Stop Candidacy

August 1, 2023 – Reed Galen and Rick Wilson, co-founders of The Lincoln Project, release the following statement on Trump’s indictment:

“Trump was indicted tonight for trying to turn the “Big Lie” – that he won the election – into an attempt to stop the peaceful transfer of power. This is just one more example showing the depravity and ruthlessness Trump is willing to employ in obtaining power for himself and his parasitic family.

“The nation needs to wake up to the very real threat that Trump will win the presidency. He IS the Republican nominee. He IS leading in the polls against Joe Biden. The MAGA GOP is a cult that no longer cares about the rule of law and wants to send Trump back to the White House. No indictment is going to stop his campaign.

“All Americans must realize the only choice before voters is between a functioning democracy versus a disgraced former President who tried to overthrow the government. There is only one functioning party in America that cares about the rule of law and believes in democracy – and President Joe Biden is its candidate.”

The Lincoln Project is a leading pro-democracy organization in the United States — dedicated to the preservation, protection, and defense of democracy.

To learn more about The Lincoln Project, go to lincolnproject.us .

70 Million?

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 12:14:02 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

When will everyone wake up and realize that No Labels is a front organization for Trump?

Well, Mark Penn and his slick, million-dollar PR hacks at No Labels keep booking cable news appearances, raising money and flat-out lying about their plan to hand the election to Donald Effing Trump. So that means I’m staying on my No Labels soapbox. And you should too.

Here’s the topic for today: No Labels has already loaded up its coffers with nearly $70 million in fundraising. Where’s all that money coming from?

I’ve got two answers for you there. First, we don’t really know. But it’s not our fault we don’t know the answer. Any decent interviewer asks them the same question. And we all know The Lincoln Project has been demanding an answer for months now.

But No Labels refuses to answer. And it’s because, and I want you to scream it with me now: No Labels is a dark money extremist organization that exists to elect Trump. We’re fighting them at every turn and we need you with us >>

No Labels doesn’t want you to know where their funding comes from because they know it undermines their bogus brand as “independent moderates.” (Yeah, right. No Labels strategist and pollster Mark Penn even secretly met Trump at The White House to help him fight his (first) impeachment.) But even though we don’t have their donor file, we know some of the names associated with the group.

Harlan Crow. Yes, the charming billionaire who collects Nazi paraphernalia and Supreme Court justices.

Jared Kushner. The man who stole the girl of Donald Trump’s dreams.

A who’s who of MAGA mega-donors. At the end of the day, you know how to spot a No Labels donor? Just go to the top Trump donors last cycle. They’re the same people.

Just like us, they’re reading the 2024 polling. They know that Biden consistently beats Trump in a head-to-head matchup. And they know that an independent candidate can peel enough moderate voters away from Biden to give Trump The White House.

But I’m not just sitting here on my soapbox whining about No Labels. We’re going after the same voters and we’re fighting to bring them to the pro-democracy coalition. And we’re going to win.

We made such a big difference in 2020 and 2022 because with your help we maintained a laser focus directly on those voters. We kept their eyeballs on our ads and we helped drive millions of them to polls in states like Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

In 2024, we’re going to do the exact same thing. We’ve got a great pro-Biden ad coming up that we’re going to blast all around the country. It’s the type of message that No Labels doesn’t want voters to see.

Want to undermine No Labels and help build the coalition that’ll elect Biden? Pitch in today and help us broadcast this spot to as many people as we can. That’s how we beat Trump and that’s how we beat No Labels. They can keep wasting millions of dollars and lying on cable television. We’re going to keep doing the work that wins.

Dark Money

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 12:20:13 GMT

Dark Money

Traitor Tuberville

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Sat, 15 Jul 2023 12:17:45 GMT

Traitor Tuberville

South Dakota Advisory Committee Issues Report: Voting Rights and Access in South Dakota

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 12:45:28 GMT

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The South Dakota Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights has released a report following a series of public meetings on voting rights in South Dakota. The Committee’s study focused on identifying barriers to voting access for American Indians, people with disabilities, and non-English speakers in South Dakota. To examine this issue, the Committee conducted five virtual public meetings in 2022. The Committee invited testimony from the legal community, academics, advocacy organizations, and individuals. Based on the testimony offered at these meetings, the Committee prepared a report detailing its findings and recommendations for addressing the issues raised by speakers.

Significant concerns raised in the report include widespread confusion around South Dakota’s voter ID and voter eligibility requirements; challenges in navigating long distances to registration, polling, and absentee balloting locations; and, for American Indians specifically, distrust in non-Tribal government efforts to genuinely encourage access in supporting the equal right to vote for American Indians.

In response to the concerns raised by those who shared testimony with the Committee, the Committee made recommendations to federal, state, and local entities to make sure to include American Indians, people with disabilities, and non-English speakers in ongoing conversations and specific efforts to ensure they can vote. Specific recommendations are detailed in the report and include recommendations around providing improved education on Voter ID requirements, clear information on registration and voting rules, and addressing the transportation, technological, and language access issues that pose particular challenges towards exercising the right to vote for American Indians, people with disabilities, and non-English speakers.

Committee Chair Travis L. Letellier said, “The South Dakota Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights is honored to submit its report on Voting Rights and Access in South Dakota. We sincerely thank the speakers who took the time to share their experiences, expertise, and knowledge as we undertook this study. We hope the findings and recommendations found in our report drive meaningful change for voters in South Dakota.”

Report -Voting Rights South Dakota

Policy Brief Voting Rights South Dakota

Media Contact:

Mallory Trachtenberg
(202) 809-9618
mtrachtenberg@usccr.gov

1776 Declaration of Independence - The March Toward Justice

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 18:46:14 GMT

Fight Today For a Better Tomorrow -

Today a diverse and inclusive community will gather in the March Toward Justice to bring attention to the need for justice in our community. In the last few weeks we have witnessed the fear ridden actions from the Rapid City Mayor(s) with their blustery "public safety warning" to "stay off the streets", to the erection of the signs "Thank you to all our law enforcement who keep us safe" purchased by the new mayors PAC SD Strong and now the arrest of Nick Tilsen the CEO of NDN Collective. All of these “actions” are from an old and outdated play book harking back to days gone by. All of these action are attempts to vilify the Native American community for choosing to stand strong and demand justice in a community that has been marked by racism from the beginning.

Affirming rights and standing for justice has never been without conflict and will never be comfortable.

100 hundred years ago women were "given" the right to vote. Only 45 years ago were First Nations People "allowed" religious practice without persecution. Only 8 years ago were same couples "allowed" to legally marry. In 1776, The Declaration of Independence proclaimed "all men are created equal" and asserted certain inalienable rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. However, these rights were initially limited to white male property owners.

During and after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, various forms of oppression and discrimination persisted. Women, Native Americans, and enslaved Africans were excluded from the political process and denied basic rights, including the right to vote. From 1774 until about 1832, treaties between individual sovereign American Indian nations and the United States were negotiated to establish borders and prescribe conditions of behavior between the parties.

The form of these agreements was nearly identical to the Treaty of Paris ending the Revolutionary War between the U.S. and Great Britain. The negotiations ended in a mutually signed pact that had to be approved by the U.S. Congress. Non-tribal citizens were required to have a passport to cross sovereign Indian lands.

1778–1829 The new United States continued the Colonial-era practice of signing treaties with tribes to maintain peace between nations. But thirst for Native American land proved stronger than Government promises. Native Americans called treaties “talking leaves” that blew away as easily as leaves in the wind. The United States formally ended the policy of treaty-making with tribes in 1871.

From 1832 until 1871, American Indian nations were considered to be domestic, dependent tribes. Negotiated treaties between tribes and the U.S. had to be approved by the U.S. Congress.

In the 1868 treaty, signed at Fort Laramie and other military posts in Sioux country, the United States recognized the Black Hills as part of the Great Sioux Reservation, set aside for exclusive use by the Sioux people. In the Treaty of 1868, the U.S. government promised the Sioux territory that included the Black Hills in perpetuity. Perpetuity lasted only until gold was found in the mountains and prospectors migrated there in the 1870s. After the discovery of gold in 1874, the United States confiscated the land in 1877. To this day, ownership of the Black Hills remains the subject of a legal dispute between the U.S. government and the Sioux.

Until 1871 the U.S. government negotiated treaties with Indian tribes as it did with foreign powers. Many of the treaties extinguished Native Americans' title to land. Other agreements related to the pursuit and maintenance of peace, the status of tribes as dependent nations, and regulation of trade. Many of the treaties are still significant in the defense of Indian land claims, hunting and fishing rights, and tribal autonomy. U.S. treaties with Indian nations are held by the National Archives.

In 1871, the House of Representatives ceased recognition of individual tribes within the U.S. as independent nations with whom the U.S. could contract by treaty. This ended the nearly 100-year-old practice of treaty-making between the U.S. and American Indian tribes.

1890–1917 The Dawes Act “KILL THE INDIAN, SAVE THE MAN” sought to assimilate Native Americans through establishment of individual land ownership. The act banned traditional cultural and religious practices and established compulsory English and Christian children’s education. The effects of the Dawes Act were negative and enduring—it damaged tribal affiliations, familial and societal roles, and the economic standing of Native Americans.

This destructive legislation would remain law of the land until the Religious Freedom Act of 1978.

Religious freedom in the United States is a hallmark of American liberty; however, the United States has not always been tolerant of all religions at all times. Believing that Native Americans needed to become Christians before they could fully assimilate into Euro-American society, Federal Indian policies often repressed indigenous beliefs and practices, at times banning them completely.

The move towards self-determination led Government policymakers to recognize American Indians’ right to religious freedom. Furthermore, free practice of traditional indigenous religions was an important step on the path to achieving self-determination.

It is crucial to recognize that the struggle for equal rights and the expansion of democratic principles has been an ongoing challenge in the United States. Over time, marginalized groups have fought for and some have gradually gained greater recognition and inclusion. Amendments to the U.S. Constitution, such as the 19th Amendment (1920) granting women the right to vote, Brown V Board of Education 1954, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the Religious Freedom Act of 1978, have helped to address these historical injustices.

While progress has been made, there are still ongoing efforts to ensure equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of gender, race, orientation, place of birth, ability or ethnicity. It is crucial to continue learning from the past, advocating for social justice, and working towards a more inclusive society.

Let’s take a deeper dive at a few historical examples that highlight some of the significant milestones in this ongoing march toward justice.

The 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, granted women the right to vote, a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality. This amendment was the result of years of activism and advocacy by suffragettes who fought for women's suffrage.

The women were clubbed, beaten and tortured by the guards at the Occoquan Workhouse. The 33 suffragists from the National Woman’s Party had been arrested Nov. 10, 1917, while picketing outside the White House for the right to vote.

The Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision in 1954 declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. This landmark ruling played a crucial role in advancing the civil rights movement and challenging racial discrimination in various aspects of American society.

Texas Attorney General John Ben Shepperd organized a campaign to generate legal obstacles to the implementation of desegregation.

In September 1957, Arkansas governor Orval Faubus called out the Arkansas Army National Guard to block the entry of nine black students, later known as the "Little Rock Nine", after the desegregation of Little Rock Central High School. President Dwight D. Eisenhower responded by asserting federal control over the Arkansas National Guard and deploying troops from the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division stationed at Fort Campbell to ensure the black students could safely register for and attend classes.

Also in 1957, Florida's response was mixed. Its legislature passed an Interposition Resolution denouncing the decision and declaring it null and void. But Florida Governor LeRoy Collins, though joining in the protest against the court decision, refused to sign it, arguing that the attempt to overturn the ruling must be done by legal methods.

In Mississippi, fear of violence prevented any plaintiff from bringing a school desegregation suit for the next nine years. When Medgar Evers sued in 1963 to desegregate schools in Jackson, Mississippi, White Citizens Council member Byron De La Beckwith murdered him. Two subsequent trials resulted in hung juries. Beckwith was not convicted of the murder until 1994.

In June 1963, Alabama governor George Wallace personally blocked the door to the University of Alabama's Foster Auditorium to prevent the enrollment of two black students in what became known as the "Stand in the Schoolhouse Door" incident. Wallace sought to uphold his "segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever" promise he had given in his 1963 inaugural address. Wallace moved aside only when confronted by General Henry V. Graham of the Alabama National Guard, whom President John F. Kennedy had ordered to intervene.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were significant legislative achievements that aimed to dismantle racial segregation and discrimination. These laws outlawed racial discrimination in public places, employment, and voting, and they provided a legal framework for promoting equal rights and opportunities for African Americans.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark piece of legislation in the United States that aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination. It had a significant impact on the country, particularly in terms of promoting equality and addressing systemic racism. However, it is important to note that the act did not immediately eradicate violence or racism. Here's an overview of the violence before and after the Civil Rights Act of 1964:

Violence before the Civil Rights Act (pre-1964): Jim Crow Era: Before the Civil Rights Act, the United States was deeply segregated, particularly in the Southern states, where Jim Crow laws were in place. African Americans faced widespread discrimination and violence, including lynchings, racial riots, and acts of domestic terrorism by white supremacist groups like the Ku Klux Klan. Many African Americans were denied access to basic civil rights, such as voting, education, and public accommodations.

Violence during the Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s): During the Civil Rights Movement, which spanned from the 1950s to the 1960s, there was a significant increase in nonviolent protests and acts of civil disobedience to challenge segregation and racial injustice. However, these efforts were often met with violent opposition from white supremacists, law enforcement, and segregationist groups. African American activists, such as Martin Luther King Jr., were frequently targeted with violence, including bombings, physical assaults, and assassinations.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964: The Civil Rights Act of 1964, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964, outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It ended racial segregation in public places and banned employment discrimination. The act was a crucial step forward in dismantling legalized segregation and promoting equality.

Aftermath of the Civil Rights Act (post-1964):

While the Civil Rights Act marked a significant turning point, it did not immediately eliminate racial tensions or violence. Some individuals and groups resisted desegregation and equal rights, leading to continued incidents of violence and discrimination. However, the act empowered the federal government to take legal action against those who violated civil rights laws and allowed for progress in addressing systemic racism.

Overall, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 played a vital role in advancing civil rights and equality in the United States. While violence persisted to some extent in the years following its enactment, the act served as a catalyst for change and paved the way for subsequent legislation aimed at combating discrimination and promoting social justice.

The Religious Freedom Act of 1978, also known as the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, recognized the rights of Native Americans to practice their traditional religions without interference or suppression. This act was an important step towards respecting indigenous cultures and supporting self-determination for Native American communities.

While these historical milestones represent progress, it is important to acknowledge that there is still work to be done to achieve full equality and inclusivity for all individuals. Ongoing efforts are necessary to address systemic inequalities, promote social justice, and ensure that everyone has equal rights and opportunities, regardless of their gender, race, or ethnicity.

Today is one more step toward realizing the expansion of a community to include the hopes and dreams of all of its citizens. We urge you to read, be informed, ask questions and take a step back from following the “male white leaders” who demand a group of people working “For The People” do what “they” say needs to be done.

By learning from the past and advocating for positive change, societies can strive towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

CO2 Pipelines

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 20:14:47 GMT

Do better to not hurt people or the earth

In May of 2022 the Minnesota utility regulators determined pipelines that carry carbon dioxide are hazardous and therefore subject to state approval. CO2 is heavier than air, so if a pipeline ruptures it can displace oxygen and potentially cause breathing difficulties, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, headaches and impaired thinking.

In South Dakota carbon capture is being pushed, promoted, and propagated by Summit Carbon Solutions. According to their LinkedIn profile, Summit Carbon Solutions is "accelerating the transition toward sustainable, renewable energy by dramatically lowering the carbon footprint of biorefineries and other carbon dioxide emission sources throughout the Midwestern region of the United States."

Fossil fuel executives hope you’ll believe in their newest scheme —

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is the fossil fuel industry’s biggest scheme yet to persuade people that the climate crisis can be solved while still depending on what they’re selling.

Remember how the tobacco industry used massive deception to keep consumers buying their product in spite of extreme risks? The fossil fuel industry has followed Big Tobacco’s playbook with CCS.

CCS has already proven to be a failure but that isn’t stopping fossil fuel executives from trying to convince you (and lawmakers) to bankroll it — to the tune of tens of billions of dollars. Read more.

When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change, there are several alternatives to CO2 pipelines that are considered more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Here are a few options:

1. Renewable Energy Sources: Shifting towards renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power can significantly reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, including the need for CO2 pipelines. By generating clean energy, we can minimize or eliminate the production of CO2 altogether.

2. Energy Efficiency Measures: Implementing energy efficiency measures in industries, buildings, and transportation sectors can lead to significant reductions in CO2 emissions. This includes improving insulation, using energy-efficient appliances, adopting efficient transportation systems, and optimizing industrial processes.

3. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): CCS involves capturing CO2 emissions from industrial processes or power plants and storing them underground instead of releasing them into the atmosphere. While CO2 pipelines are typically used to transport captured CO2 to storage sites, alternative transportation methods like shipping or using existing infrastructure (e.g., natural gas pipelines) can be considered.

4. Electrification of Transportation: Transitioning from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) reduces the direct emissions of CO2. Additionally, utilizing renewable energy sources to charge EVs further reduces the overall carbon footprint of transportation.

5. Circular Economy Approach: Adopting a circular economy model that focuses on recycling, reusing, and reducing waste can help minimize the need for resource extraction, manufacturing, and transportation, which contribute to CO2 emissions.

6. Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees and restoring forests are natural carbon sinks that absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, helping to offset emissions. Protecting existing forests and implementing sustainable land management practices are equally important.

It's important to note that the most effective approach often involves a combination of these alternatives rather than relying on a single solution. The choice of the best alternative depends on the specific context, available resources, and technological advancements.

As the fight over land rights and the grifting by profiteers wages on one thing is really clear - there is a simple straight forward way to deal with environmental sustainability - do less things that hurt people and the earth!~

Why Does Affirmative Action Matter

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 17:43:39 GMT

Heather Cox Richardson has a brilliant mind. She shared today her insights into the Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v President and Fellows of Harvard College . I would encourage you to sign up for her insights .

Richardson writes, "Today the Supreme Court handed down a decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc., v. President and Fellows of Harvard College. Students for Fair Admissions is an organization designed to fight against affirmative action in college admissions, and today it achieved its goal: the Supreme Court decided that policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina that consider race as a factor in admissions are unconstitutional because they violate the guarantee of equal protection before the law, established by the Fourteenth Amendment.

The deciding votes were 6 to 2 in the case of Harvard—Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson recused herself because she had been a member of Harvard’s board of overseers—and 6 to 3 in the case of the University of North Carolina.

In the case of the two schools at the center of this Supreme Court decision, admissions officers initially evaluated students on a number of categories. Harvard used six: academic, extracurricular, athletic, school support, personal, and overall. Then, after the officers identified an initial pool of applicants who were all qualified for admission, they cut down the list to a final class. At Harvard, those on the list to be cut were evaluated on four criteria: legacy status, recruited athlete status, financial aid eligibility, and race. Today, the Supreme Court ruled that considering race as a factor in that categorical fashion is unconstitutional.

The court did not rule that race could not be considered at all. In the majority decision, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that “nothing in this opinion should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise.”

How much this will matter for colleges and universities is unclear. Journalist James Fallows pointed out that there are between 3,500 and 5,500 colleges in the U.S. and all but 100 of them admit more than 50% of the students who apply. Only about 70 admit fewer than a third of all applicants. That is, according to a study by the Pew Research Center, “the great majority of schools, where most Americans get their postsecondary education, admit most of the people who apply to them.”

The changing demographics of the country are also changing student populations. As an example, in 2022, more than 33% of the students at the University of Texas at Austin, which automatically admits any Texas high school student in the top 6% of their class, were from historically underrepresented populations. And universities that value diversity may continue to try to create a diverse student body.

But in the past, when schools have eliminated affirmative action, Black student numbers have dropped off, both because of changes in admission policies and because Black students have felt unwelcome in those schools. This matters to the larger pattern of American society. As Black and Brown students are cut off from elite universities, they are also cut off from the pipeline to elite graduate schools and jobs.

More is at stake in this case than affirmative action in university admissions. The decision involves the central question of whether the law is colorblind or whether it can be used to fix long-standing racial inequality. Does the Fourteenth Amendment, ratified in 1868 to enable the federal government to overrule state laws that discriminated against Black Americans, allow the courts to enforce measures to address historic discrimination?

Those joining the majority in the decision say no. They insist that the framers of the Fourteenth Amendment after the Civil War intended only that it would make men of all races equal before the law, and that considering race in college admissions undermines that principle by using race in a negative manner, involving racial stereotyping (by considering race by category), and lacking an endpoint. “Many universities have for too long wrongly concluded that the touchstone of an individual’s identity is not challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned, but the color of their skin. This Nation’s constitutional history does not tolerate that choice,” the majority opinion reads.

In a concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas wrote that affirmative action actually made racial tensions worse because it “highlights our racial differences with pernicious effect,” prolonging “the asserted need for racial discrimination.” He wrote: “under our Constitution, race is irrelevant.” “The great failure of this country was slavery and its progeny,” Thomas wrote. “And, the tragic failure of this Court was its misinterpretation of the Reconstruction Amendments.”

Those justices who dissented—Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson—pointed to the profound racial discrimination that continued after the Civil War and insist that the law has the power to address that discrimination in order to achieve the equality promised by the Fourteenth Amendment. “The Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment enshrines a guarantee of racial equality,” Sotomayor’s opinion begins. “The Court long ago concluded that this guarantee can be enforced through race-conscious means in a society that is not, and has never been, colorblind.”

In her concurring opinion concerning the UNC case, Jackson noted that “[g]ulf-sized race-based gaps exist with respect to the health, wealth, and well-being of American citizens. They were created in the distant past, but have indisputably been passed down to the present day through the generations. Every moment these gaps persist is a moment in which this great country falls short of actualizing one of its foundational principles—the ‘self-evident’ truth that all of us are created equal.”

If this fight sounds political, it should. It mirrors the current political climate in which right-wing activists reject the idea of systemic racism that the U.S. has acknowledged and addressed in the law since the 1950s. They do not believe that the Fourteenth Amendment supports the civil rights legislation that tries to guarantee equality for historically marginalized populations, and in today’s decision the current right-wing majority on the court demonstrated that it is willing to push that political agenda at the expense of settled law. As recently as 2016, the court reaffirmed that affirmative action, used since the 1960s, is constitutional. Today’s court just threw that out.

The split in the court focused on history, and the participants’ anger was palpable and personal. Thomas claimed that “[a]s [Jackson] sees things, we are all inexorably trapped in a fundamentally racist society, with the original sin of slavery and the historical subjugation of black Americans still determining our lives today.” Her solution, he writes, “is to unquestioningly accede to the view of elite experts and reallocate society’s riches by racial means as necessary to ‘level the playing field,’ all as judged by racial metrics…. I strongly disagree.”

Jackson responded that “Justice Thomas’s prolonged attack…responds to a dissent I did not write in order to assail an admissions program that is not the one UNC has crafted.”

She noted that Black Americans had always simply wanted the same right to take care of themselves that white Americans had enjoyed, but it had been denied them. She recounted the nation’s long history of racial discrimination and excoriated the majority for pretending it didn’t exist. “With let-them-eat-cake obliviousness, today, the majority pulls the ripcord and announces ‘colorblindness for all’ by legal fiat. But deeming race irrelevant in law does not make it so in life. And having so detached itself from this country’s actual past and present experiences, the Court has now been lured into interfering with the crucial work that UNC and other institutions of higher learning are doing to solve America’s real-world problems.”

“Today, the Supreme Court upended decades of precedent that enabled America’s colleges and universities to build vibrant diverse environments where students are prepared to lead and learn from one another,” the Biden administration said in a statement, warning that “the Court’s decision threatens to move the country backwards.” In a speech to reporters, Biden called for new standards that take into consideration the adversity—including poverty—a student has overcome when selecting among qualified candidates, a system that would work “for everyone… from Appalachia to Atlanta and far beyond.”

“While the Court can render a decision, it cannot change what America stands for.”

Affirmative action is a policy that aims to promote equal opportunities for historically marginalized and underrepresented groups. It recognizes that certain groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities, have faced systemic discrimination and have been disadvantaged in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and access to resources."

Notes:

https://www.collegetransitions.com/college-selectivity/

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2019/04/09/a-majority-of-u-s-colleges-admit-most-students-who-apply/

https://www.scotusblog.com/2022/03/jackson-says-shell-recuse-herself-from-case-challenging-affirmative-action-at-harvard/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/06/29/affirmative-action-scotus-decision-full-text-pdf/

https://news.utexas.edu/2022/09/22/ut-austin-enrolls-largest-ever-student-body-sets-all-time-highs-for-graduation-rates/

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/06/29/fact-sheet-president-biden-announces-actions-to-promote-educational-opportunity-and-diversity-in-colleges-and-universities/

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2023/06/29/remarks-by-president-biden-on-the-supreme-courts I’ll-decision-on-affirmative-action/

https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2023/06/john-roberts-supreme-court-brown-v-board-of-education.html

Twitter:

AshaRangappa_/status/1674437450851049472

neal_katyal/status/1674422760519659520

JamesFallows/status/1674472046464475138

Why Does Affirmative Action Matter?

Here are some reasons why affirmative action matters:

1. Addressing historical injustices: Affirmative action attempts to rectify the effects of past discrimination and social inequalities. It acknowledges that certain groups have been systematically disadvantaged and aims to level the playing field by providing them with opportunities that may have been denied in the past.

2. Promoting diversity and inclusivity: Affirmative action encourages diversity by ensuring that different perspectives and experiences are represented in educational institutions and workplaces. By creating more inclusive environments, it fosters a richer exchange of ideas, encourages cross-cultural understanding, and prepares individuals to thrive in diverse societies.

3. Breaking the cycle of disadvantage: By providing opportunities to historically marginalized groups, affirmative action can help break the cycle of disadvantage. It allows individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to access education, employment, and other resources, enabling them to overcome barriers and improve their socioeconomic status.

4. Enhancing social cohesion: Affirmative action promotes social cohesion by reducing disparities and fostering a sense of fairness. When individuals perceive that opportunities are distributed more equitably, it can help build trust, reduce social tensions, and create a more cohesive society.

5. Encouraging meritocracy: Contrary to a common misconception, affirmative action is not about lowering standards or giving preferential treatment based solely on one's identity. It seeks to ensure that qualified individuals from historically marginalized groups are not overlooked due to biases or systemic barriers. Affirmative action can actually enhance meritocracy by creating fairer evaluation processes that consider a wider range of qualifications and talents.

Affirmative action is a necessary tool to combat systemic inequality and promote equal opportunities. The aim is not to create an unfair advantage but to level the playing field and create a more inclusive society for everyone.

Why do we spend so much time on anti-trans legislation?

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 15:10:16 GMT

The sudden flood of state-level efforts to restrict transgender rights is being fueled by many of the Christian and conservative groups that led the charge against Roe v. Wade.

Why it matters: Groups such as the Alliance Defending Freedom , the Family Research Council , the Liberty Counsel and the American Principles Project are behind a multimillion-dollar effort targeting LGBTQ rights through "parents' rights" bills.

The groups have provided templates and support for similarly worded bills that seek to ban minors from attending drag shows , prevent trans youths from receiving gender-affirming care , and restrict their participation in high school sports.

What they're saying: The groups say they aim to shape policy based on their theological and conservative beliefs around sex, gender and family.

Many Republicans have embraced that agenda, touting a "protect the children" platform for 2024 that targets school policies on gender identity and how racial issues are taught .

Travis Weber, the Family Research Council's vice president for policy and government affairs, said Christian activists aren't seeking to impose their beliefs on others — they're fighting against beliefs being imposed on them.

"These ideas are presented to their children without their consent," Weber said. "Americans are reacting to what they are seeing, and it's being reflected in some of these laws moving."

The other side: Critics and civil liberties advocates say anti-transgender proposals reflect a narrow, religious worldview on gender and other issues while endangering free speech and non-discriminatory education.

"They want to preserve their vision of a white, Christian America (and) they're willing to embrace all sorts of anti-democratic means to protect it," said Robert P. Jones, CEO of Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI), a nonpartisan group that examines religion and policy.

State of play: The legislative proposals come at a time when roughly 8 in 10 Americans believe there's some discrimination against transgender people in our society, a 2022 Pew Research Center survey found .

The survey also found that most Americans favor laws to protect trans people from discrimination.

But the survey also gave a clue why conservative Christians and Republicans have focused on high school athletes in many bills: It said about six in 10 Americans favor requiring transgender athletes to compete on teams that match their sex at birth.

Zoom in: The activist groups' imprint on hundreds of anti-trans bills in legislatures is clear, according to the left-leaning Southern Poverty Law Center.

The groups have provided witnesses, model legislation, and legal support to defend any measures that become law, said R.G. Cravens, senior research analyst with SPLC's Intelligence Project.

Arkansas state Rep. Mary Bentley (R) told Axios NW Arkansas reporter Worth Sparkman that she worked with three of the main Christian groups to craft a measure allowing anyone who receives gender-affirming care as a minor to file a malpractice lawsuit for up to 15 years.

The bill passed the Arkansas legislature and became law. It's essentially a workaround effort to ban gender-affirming care while a ban the state-imposed previously is tied up in legal challenges.

The activist groups have raised tens of millions of dollars in recent years to fuel their lobbying on abortion and transgender issues as well as their work with state lawmakers.

The Alliance Defending Freedom, for example, reported more than $78 million in revenue in 2021, mainly from grants and donations.

The Family Research Council also gets most of its money through grants and donations . It changed its IRS status to an "association of churches" in 2020 and no longer is required to file a public tax return, ProPublica reports .

By the numbers: The ACLU is tracking more than 430 bills targeting LGBTQ rights concerning schools, health care and free speech.

Trans Legislation Tracker , a data collection website that uses information from different civil rights groups, says it has followed 492 anti-transgender bills in 47 states as of April 2. That's a 2,489% increase since 2015.

Roughly 5% of the anti-trans bills introduced in state legislatures this year have passed, an Axios review found.

The new laws are mainly in the South and Midwest. They were approved over objections from critics who say the laws are cruel, unconstitutional and could lead to more suicides among transgender youths — whose rates already are 7.6 times higher than other youths.

At least 11 states — Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, Utah, South Dakota and West Virginia — have enacted laws limiting or banning gender-affirming care for minors.

Civil rights activists, the Justice Department and families of transgender children have challenged bans in Arkansas and Alabama .

A federal judge has blocked part of an Alabama law that criminalizes gender-affirming medication, pending trial. An upcoming ruling in an Arkansas trial could support or undermine the legal ground on which gender-affirming care laws have been built in several states.

Reality check: Trans youths who choose gender-affirming care usually start with social transition , meaning the young person presents in their preferred gender. They also may begin counseling.

Afterward, they may move on to hormone treatments. Gender-affirming surgeries might be offered to teens later; this is rare and on a case-by-case basis, evaluated by multiple health professionals .

Major medical organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics , consider gender-affirming care medically necessary and potentially lifesaving for transgender youths.

Between the lines: The debate over the anti-trans bills largely involves the conservative groups questioning the widely held views of those medical organizations.

Jennifer Bauwens of the Family Research Council told Nebraska lawmakers last month that the medical community's views are "based on consensus, not evidence."

The SPLC's Cravens counters that the conservative groups' arguments are based on "pseudo-science."

Go Deeper: Listen to the Axios Today podcast , where host Niala Boodhoo and Russell Contreras discuss the push for anti-trans legislation in America .

Article by Russell Contreras, The forces behind anti-trans bills across the U.S., March 31, 2023 - Politics & Policy AXIOS

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 14:49:12 GMT

The new season is a great reason to make and keep resolutions. Whether it’s eating right or cleaning out the garage, here are some tips for making and keeping resolutions.

Make a list
Lists are great ways to stay on track. Write down some big things you want to accomplish and some smaller things, too.

Check the list regularly
Don’t forget to check in and see how you’re doing. Just because you don’t achieve the big goals right away doesn’t mean you’re not making progress.

Reward yourself
When you succeed in achieving a goal, be it a big one or a small one, make sure to pat yourself on the back.

Think positively
Positive thinking is a major factor in success. So instead of mulling over things that didn’t go quite right, remind yourself of things that did.

What is Liberty & Justice For All?

annie@libertyjusticeforall.org (annie bachand) — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:49:12 GMT

Who is Liberty and Justice For All?

Liberty and Justice for All recognizes South Dakota as a state that has been a launching pad for some of the craziest legislation in the country. And we recognize that South Dakota has a rich history of deeply committed individuals and advocacy groups who have fought tirelessly to ensure that the voices of all South Dakotans are heard. We honor their work and commit to working with them to expand our collective impact. It is only through civic engagement and active participation in the democratic process that we can achieve true liberty and justice for all.

JOIN

Join Liberty and Justice for All as we advocate for equal rights, educate on social justice issues, and collaborate with others to create positive change. Together, we can build a more just and equitable society for all.

ABOUT LIBERTY & JUSTICE ADVOCACY WORK

As passionate advocates for the values of liberty and justice for all, we are committed to promoting and upholding these ideals in every aspect of our lives. We believe that every person deserves the freedom to pursue their dreams and aspirations, without fear of discrim ination, oppression, or injustice.

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Why Does Affirmative Action Matter?

Why do we spend so much time on anti-trans legislation?

The sudden flood of state-level efforts to restrict transgender rights is being fueled by many of the Christian and conservative groups that led the charge against Roe v. Wade.

Make the most of the season by following these simple guidelines

What is Liberty & Justice For All?

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