Bringing diverse perspectives together to advance society through communication, empathy, and a little humor (when possible).

The Dichotomy of Thanksgiving: Gratitude and a Glimpse into a Grim Past
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The Dichotomy of Thanksgiving: Gratitude and a Glimpse into a Grim Past

Thanksgiving, as celebrated today, epitomizes a warm, inviting tableau of families and friends congregating around a bounteous table, expressing gratitude for the blessings of the past year. It's a day synonymous with togetherness, reflection, and the joy of sharing a hearty meal. The essence of gratitude and the camaraderie shared on this day is undeniably heartwarming and has become an integral part of the American ethos. However, peeling back the layers of this cherished tradition reveals a narrative far less charming, one steeped in bloodshed, deceit, and the attempts at political pacification.

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"What is Diversity?”: A Simple Guide
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"What is Diversity?”: A Simple Guide

Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the intricate mosaic of human characteristics that make up our communities and societies. While we share more similarities than differences, it’s the unique aspects of our identities that enrich the human experience. Diversity can be defined by cultural, biological, and personal attributes that shape our perceptions and interactions with each other.

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A Short History of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
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A Short History of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a long-standing and intricate struggle over land and identity, has its roots in the early 20th-century Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a long-standing and intricate struggle over land and identity, has its roots in the early 20th century. To understand this conflict from the perspective of a well-informed 18-year-old, let's delve into its history in 500 words.

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Too Soon? Unraveling Sensitive Topics Through Comedy
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Too Soon? Unraveling Sensitive Topics Through Comedy

In the realm of comedy, drawing laughs while skirting controversy is akin to walking a tightrope. Comedians, often seen as modern-day jesters, wield humor to spark thought, challenge societal norms, and of course, evoke laughter. Yet, in today's climate of heightened sensitivities, how can comedians navigate through sensitive issues without losing their humor or audience?

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"Pronouns and Patience: Navigating Identity Respectfully in a Learning Society"
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"Pronouns and Patience: Navigating Identity Respectfully in a Learning Society"

Let's open up a dialogue on a pertinent topic: embracing your identity and choosing your pronouns. It's important, yes, but how should we navigate this in a society that may not be as aware or as quick to adapt? It's commendable to stand out and be true to oneself, something I'm a staunch supporter of, but is it reasonable to expect immediate and universal understanding?

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Building a Life Upside Down: The Architectural Genius of Paul R. Williams
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Building a Life Upside Down: The Architectural Genius of Paul R. Williams

When it came to interacting with white clients, Williams had to navigate the racial bias of his time. Since he couldn’t sit next to his clients, he developed an unusual skill: he learned to draw upside down. This way, he could sketch across the table, maintaining professional decorum while displaying his artistic brilliance.

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A Social Justice Tightrope: Walking Through the James Webb Telescope Controversy.
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A Social Justice Tightrope: Walking Through the James Webb Telescope Controversy.

The controversy surfaced as Webb was accused of enabling a so-called “lavender scare,” a mid-20th-century purge of gay employees from the federal workforce. Hakeem Oluseyi, President of the National Society of Black Physicists and an advocate for social justice himself, found himself in the eye of the storm when he claimed there was no direct evidence linking Webb to these allegations.

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Overhead: I’m only a racist when I’m driving.
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Overhead: I’m only a racist when I’m driving.

“I’m only a racist when I’m driving.”, I heard someone say this as a joke, someone who I considered to be respectful of others and a progressive thinker on social issues. They said they were joking, but it still felt like there was an element of truth to it, and, as a new driver, it made me think about how being in a car can bring out the worst in us. It’s a strange phenomenon that I’m trying to understand.

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