Art by Jenny Rustdad War is no longer a game of cards played with friends. When enemy soldiers are captured, America no longer enlists the long-forgotten niceties of a gentlemen’s code of conduct, such as the Marquees of Queensberry Rules. Combatants are not provided safe passage back home, released solely with a pledge to never raise arms against the U.S. again. On the … [Read more...] about Terrorists Fight to Approach the Negotiation Table
America
Visibly Western: Musings from the Sweatshop
My mother is quirky, or maybe I just don’t get her. One year, I asked her what she wanted for Christmas. Despite being mentally prepared for an answer that was painfully practical, I was still shocked to hear that Saran wrap was a top contender. When I asked her what she wanted for Mother’s Day, she told me to get better grades. When she sent her first email in 2009, she shoved … [Read more...] about Visibly Western: Musings from the Sweatshop
Race is Holding the US Back
I am sick and tired of race. How can I say that? Am I denying my own identity by saying this? No. Race is socially constructed, and I am disgusted with the way that our society has used it to systematically disadvantage people, especially those of color. There is nothing inherent about race, except humanity. We are all a part of the human race. But socially constructed racial … [Read more...] about Race is Holding the US Back
Redemption in the Motor City
Detroit is the go-to punchline of every insecure pundit and wannabe economist. It is fodder for Reddit and Bill Maher. It is the raised eyebrow and the half-grin of so many casual introductions. But Detroit — while it is in a dismal state right now — is more than a site for film producers to blow up buildings. Downtown Detroit is a beautiful and (dare I say) safe metropolis … [Read more...] about Redemption in the Motor City
9/11: Let Freedom Wave
Photo by Veronica Johnson The promise of hope and honor remain standing tall and strong in the 2,977 flags representing the lives lost on 9/11 as they flutter through the Malibu ocean breeze on Alumni Park. At Saturday’s Step Forward Day students volunteered in places such food banks, schools and parks. After serving, volunteers were invited to help put up the … [Read more...] about 9/11: Let Freedom Wave