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Climate Colonization and the Targeted Nature of Pollution

Global pollution disproportionately affects low-income countries and marginalized populations, especially in places like Ghana’s Agbogbloshie neighborhood, a major e-waste landfill. These areas experience vast health and environmental issues due to the contamination from discarded electronics and industrial waste. This pollution follows historical imperial and racial lines, resulting in environmental “sacrifice zones”. High-income, industrialized countries are the main contributors to pollution, yet evade the consequences. The fossil fuel industry causes significant harm, with large-scale industries being the major culprits. Combating pollution requires addressing socio-economic inequality, regulating polluting industries, and investing in sustainable energy systems.
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Rubbertown, West Louisville: A Historic Source of Environmental Injustice

During World War II, the U.S. government commissioned various companies to build plants in Rubbertown, West Louisville, altering the once peaceful community into an industrial hub. Decades later, this decision resulted in severe environmental pollution, making Rubbertown one of the most polluted neighborhoods in America. High levels of toxic chemicals, environmental injustice, and a grim history of systemic racism have plagued the region. However, organizations are now advocating for change, fighting pollution, and striving for a healthier future for Rubbertown. Continue reading Rubbertown, West Louisville: A Historic Source of Environmental Injustice

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The History of America’s Certificate of Need Laws

The history of certificate of need laws tells a story of community and business leaders attempts to solve healthcare problems with government policies. When that failed, the federal government and several states eliminated their CON laws. However, some states continue using these policies despite data indicating they deter access and hurt margins. Continue reading The History of America’s Certificate of Need Laws

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The Young Lords: A Story of Radical Latinos

Garbage burning in the street, FBI espionage, and the creation of one of the most influential Latino civil rights groups in American history—this is the story of the Young Lords. Starting in Chicago and spreading to New York, the Young Lords Organization was a radical activist group that fought against oppression in their communities and beyond. Exemplifying a revolutionary activism that is often left out of contemporary history classes, the Young Lords brought about profound change in a short time span, cementing their legacy in Latino History. Continue reading The Young Lords: A Story of Radical Latinos

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DOJ Finds that LMPD “Deprives People of their Rights” and “Unlawfully Discriminates Against Black People”

On March 8th of this year, following two years of research, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) finally released its findings on the state of law enforcement in Louisville. Initiated by the 2020 killing of Breonna Taylor and the subsequent protests, the scathing report details the ways in which the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) has consistently violated the fourth amendment rights of suspects … Continue reading DOJ Finds that LMPD “Deprives People of their Rights” and “Unlawfully Discriminates Against Black People”

Gun Violence in America Reveals Something Deeper

As I begin writing, I have just learned that Louisville has again suffered another mass shooting at Chickasaw Park, leaving 4 injured and 2 dead. I would be remiss if I did not state how difficult it is to find new words. At times, we must feel like broken records with repeated calls over the years to institute this or that ameliorative policy, sparing no … Continue reading Gun Violence in America Reveals Something Deeper

…Well, What About the Waste? Sustainable Long-Term Solutions to Nuclear Waste Disposal

In 1984, a story was published about how a truck transporting hazardous material lost some of its cargo when it swerved to narrowly avoid a visually impaired man. This hazardous material caused irreversible genetic mutations when it came into contact with domesticated animals that had escaped from a bystander during the accident. Luckily, this is the fictitious origin story of the beloved action hero franchise … Continue reading …Well, What About the Waste? Sustainable Long-Term Solutions to Nuclear Waste Disposal

Action Against Animal Cruelty Taken in Proposed Code of Conduct Resolution

An amendment to the university’s student code of conduct has been proposed by Student Government Association Services Vice President Alex Reynolds in response to acts of animal cruelty that were posted by a University of Louisville student on Saturday. The University posted a statement to Twitter on Sunday, indicating that they are aware of the situation and that, “We take reports of occurrences like this … Continue reading Action Against Animal Cruelty Taken in Proposed Code of Conduct Resolution

Strategic Neutrality: An Alternative to American Foreign Policy in Ukraine

When Vladimir Putin decided to invade Ukraine on Friday February 24th, 2022, I was an intern at the Kentucky State Senate. I could not wait to get to work the week after to ask the senator I worked for his opinion about the historic situation unfolding in eastern Europe. Little did I know, his answer was one I would never forget. I asked him, “What … Continue reading Strategic Neutrality: An Alternative to American Foreign Policy in Ukraine

Artificial Intelligence May Be Able to Pimp the Pope, but What Else Can It Do?

Last weekend, pictures of Pope Francis dressed in a long, white puffer jacket began circulating the internet. In awe of the Pope’s sudden sense of fashion, I began sending the photo to my friends and family without giving much thought to its legitimacy. Given that it’s now spring and probably not cold enough in Rome to require a full-body puffer jacket, I probably should’ve examined … Continue reading Artificial Intelligence May Be Able to Pimp the Pope, but What Else Can It Do?