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Populism – a threat or a challenge for the democratic system?

Populism – a threat or a challenge for the democratic system?

The election of Donald Trump as President-Elect last month was a surprise to most, including the candidate himself. ‘Monday nite quarterbacking’ was widespread throughout the political spectrum.  What happened?? How did this happen? Of course, numerous factors influenced both democratic and republican voters but one major factor was either overlooked and/or dismissed.  The pundits and pollsters got it wrong. POPULISM was real and widespread. Succinctly and historically Populism can be described as the working class seeking economic justice.  However, this…

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Are Women Human?

Are Women Human?

I once saw a question raised related to violence against women that questioned: “Are Women Human?” Seems like a superfluous inquiry, doesn’t it? However, treatment of women, whether it be through actions, attitudes and/or expressed values demonstrate that we are not. Historical roots and traditional customs offer deep roots to a negative response to this question. Instead, we are often seen as objects rather than subjects. We are seen as subservient rather than equal to men.  It seems to take…

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To Make the Invisible Visible!

To Make the Invisible Visible!

Can you remember the last time you heard the presidential candidates speak about people living in poverty? We hear concerns about the middle class and outrage over the top 1% and tax cuts but what about those persons who aren’t included in these categories? Think about it! To name a few who aren’t ‘counted’ – women & girls caught in human trafficking, homeless people, drug addicts, single moms and their children, elderly women and men, farmworkers, rural and urban poverty,…

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Did You Know?

Did You Know?

Please begin by viewing the above youtube (c.5 min.) Incorporate the reflection below into your own thoughts. How does this thought-provoking information and challenge connect with your choices to the upcoming elections and candidates – presidential, senatorial, house reps?  This election, as we know is unprecedented in our nation’s history.  Much is at stake, especially for the lives of those who are poor and/or marginalized.  The present situation did not happen overnight!  There are surely many factors, among them movements…

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Election 2016

Election 2016

We, U.S. citizens – and the rest of the world – have experienced months and months of the primary campaigns along with, continued campaigns toward the general election in November 2016. However, at this time we have two major candidates rather than almost twenty!  Seems, in theory, like it should be pretty simple, doesn’t it? However, could there be two more contrasting world views? World views reflect and encompass a person’s values, priorities, choices, morals, ideals, etc. As you listen…

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Yes, we have differences

Yes, we have differences

Yes, we have differences (see below).  No, we share a common humanity. It seems we need a better balance between the two! To identify a few startling events from our recent past: Timothy Thomas, an unarmed 19 yr. old in Cincinnati shot and killed during Holy Week of 2001. Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old, shot and killed in 2013.  This month -July 2016 -2 men killed in two consecutive days:  Alton Sterling, 37,in Baton Rouge, LA., Philando Castile, 32, killed in St….

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Dan Berrigan, S. J.

Dan Berrigan, S. J.

Dan Berrigan, S.J. dead at the age of 94 – died Saturday, April 30, 2016. Who was he? Priest, prophet, poet, teacher, author, protestor, mentor . . . Many words have already been written about him; many more will come.  For those of you not so familiar with his journey of justice I offer the following youtube (about 8 minutes)  www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODE99vSoDsc In addition, I wish to share two of the experiences I had with him. In the summer of 1974,…

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Pervasive Violence vs. Women/Girls/LCWR

Pervasive Violence vs. Women/Girls/LCWR

Embed from Getty Images June 2014 Almost 300  Nigerian girls kidnapped, increase of rapes in the military and on college campuses (TIME, May 26, 2014),  Malala Yousafzia , a young girl in Pakistan shot by the Taliban, with the intent to kill. The Daily Show: Extended Interview: Malala Yousafzai – YouTube 16 min – Oct 10, 2013 – Uploaded by Comedy Central In this exclusive, unedited interview, “I Am Malala” author Malala Yousafzai Ongoing domestic violence, human trafficking, infanticide against girl babies, femicide,…

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Earth Day

Earth Day

Earth Day, Apr. 22, a day to celebrate the environment! The first Earth Day was organized in 1970 to promote the ideas of ecology, encourage respect for life on earth, and highlight growing concern over pollution of the soil, air, and water. Earth Day is now observed in 140 nations with outdoor performances, exhibits, street fairs, and television programs that focus on environmental issues. Check your local listings! In 1970, I was teaching in an inner-city high school, school and we planted a tree beside a…

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International Women’s Day, March 8, 2014

International Women’s Day, March 8, 2014

Embed from Getty Images “Countries with more gender equality have better economic growth. Companies with more women leaders perform better. Peace agreements that include women are more durable. Parliaments with more women enact more legislation on key social issues such as health, education, anti-discrimination and child support. The evidence is clear: equality for women means progress for all.” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on progress made, to call for change and to celebrate acts…

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