The Apache Stronghold, a Native American coalition from Arizona, is seeking Supreme Court intervention to protect Oak Flat, a sacred site threatened by a proposed copper mine. The group argues that the transfer of this land to a foreign mining company violates their religious freedoms.
Oak Flat: A Sacred Site
Oak Flat holds deep religious significance for the Apache people, who have conducted ceremonies there for generations. The land’s potential destruction by Resolution Copper, a mining company, has sparked a legal battle that could have far-reaching implications for religious freedom in the United States.
The Legal Battle
The Apache Stronghold’s case, Apache Stronghold v. United States, hinges on the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). The group argues that the government’s actions in facilitating the land transfer and permitting the mining operation infringe upon their religious rights.
The Apache Stronghold’s Appeal
Following a denial by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, the Apache Stronghold has turned to the Supreme Court as a last resort. They hope to convince the justices to hear their case and set a precedent for the protection of sacred sites under RFRA.
The Implications
The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to hear the case could significantly impact how RFRA is applied in cases where religious rights clash with economic and governmental interests. A ruling in favor of the Apache Stronghold could strengthen protections for religious groups seeking to safeguard their sacred lands.
The Outcome
The Supreme Court receives thousands of petitions annually and typically hears around 60 cases each term. While the outcome remains uncertain, the Apache Stronghold’s case highlights the ongoing struggle for religious freedom and the protection of sacred lands in the United States.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released its annual emissions report, revealing a significant drop in greenhouse gas emissions from the agricultural sector. This decline, the sharpest across all sectors in 2022, has sparked discussions and debates as major climate events loom on the horizon.
Key Findings:
Agricultural emissions decreased: The EPA report indicates a nearly 2% drop in agricultural emissions between 2021 and 2022.
Cattle and fertilizer are major contributors: The report attributes this decline primarily to reduced cattle numbers and decreased fertilizer use.
Climate change impacts cattle farming: Record-breaking droughts have led to a decline in cattle herds, directly impacting methane emissions from enteric fermentation and manure management.
Fertilizer prices influence nitrous oxide emissions: The surge in fertilizer prices in recent years, exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, led farmers to adjust crop choices and fertilizer application, affecting nitrous oxide emissions.
Implications for Climate Action:
The EPA report underscores the complex interplay between climate change, agricultural practices, and emissions. While the decline in emissions is a positive development, it’s crucial to recognize the underlying factors driving this change.
As climate events like Climate Week and COP29 approach, policymakers and industry leaders must grapple with the implications of these findings. The report suggests that addressing emissions from beef production and fertilizer use could be pivotal in shaping effective climate policies.
Looking Ahead:
The EPA report serves as a reminder that achieving sustainable agriculture requires a multifaceted approach. It highlights the need for strategies that promote climate-smart farming practices, reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers, and address the challenges posed by climate change.
Autumn has emerged as a pivotal season for assessing climate progress, framed by two significant climate summits. Kicking off the season is New York City’s Climate Week, taking place from September 22nd to 29th. This is followed by the year’s most crucial global climate event, the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), convening in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11th to 22nd. At COP29, world leaders will unite to uphold the legally binding commitment of the Paris Agreement: maintaining global emissions within a survivable range.
The agricultural sector’s role in mitigating climate change is undeniable. As we move forward, it’s imperative that we continue to monitor emissions trends, invest in research and innovation, and foster collaboration between farmers, policymakers, and scientists to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural system.
“We’ve done a bunch of work at the Lab just trying to understand the prevalence of evictions, how many people are getting evicted and who they are, and what we see again and again in this research is it’s Black renters and especially Black women … the rate of eviction for Black households is routinely twice that of white households, and in some cases, some parts of America, that disparity is even larger. ” – Peter S. Hepburn, Sociologist and Associate Director at Eviction Lab.
The eviction crisis in America is a pressing issue that disproportionately affects marginalized communities, particularly Black women. Recent data from Eviction Lab reveals a staggering number of eviction filings, painting a grim picture of housing instability across the nation. In just the past year, over 1 million eviction filings were recorded, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
The on-going impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the eviction crisis, as millions faced job losses and financial hardships. While temporary federal, state, and local protections offered some relief, they were not enough to prevent a surge in evictions. The lack of affordable housing options and the rising cost of living have intensified the problem, leaving many vulnerable individuals and families at risk of homelessness.
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach. First and foremost, increasing the supply of affordable housing is crucial. This can be achieved through targeted investments in housing development and preservation, as well as policies that incentivize the construction of affordable units. Additionally, rental assistance programs and eviction prevention measures must be strengthened to provide a safety net for those facing economic hardship.
Furthermore, efforts to address systemic discrimination in housing are essential. Black women, who are disproportionately impacted by evictions, often face discrimination in the rental market, limiting their housing choices and perpetuating cycles of poverty. Policies that promote fair housing practices and combat discrimination are vital for ensuring equal access to safe and affordable housing for all. The eviction crisis is not just a housing issue; it is a reflection of broader social and economic inequalities. By addressing the root causes of poverty and housing instability, we can create a more just and equitable society where everyone has a place to call home.
Peter Hepburn; Assistant Professor of Sociology, Rutgers University-Newark | Associate Director, The Eviction Lab, Princeton University | on X @ps_hepburn
Eviction Lab, using its Eviction Tracking System, has been tracking weekly eviction filings since March 2020 to monitor the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated policies. In the 10 states and 36 cities the researchers track, landlords have filed for 1,087,297 evictions over the last 12 months and 88,876 evictions over the last month alone.
ePa had the opportunity to speak with Professor Hepburn about his work and the research of Eviction Lab and poverty in America.
Fracking, short for hydraulic fracturing, has revolutionized the energy landscape in the United States. This technique involves injecting a high-pressure mixture of water, sand, and chemicals into underground rock formations to release trapped oil and natural gas. While fracking has boosted domestic energy production and reduced reliance on foreign oil, it has also sparked intense debate due to its potential environmental and health impacts.
The rise of fracking in the U.S. has been nothing short of remarkable. It has transformed the nation into a leading producer of oil and gas, contributing significantly to economic growth and job creation. States like Texas, North Dakota, and Pennsylvania have experienced an energy renaissance, with once-struggling communities now thriving.
Environmental Concerns
However, the environmental consequences of fracking have raised serious concerns. One major worry is the potential contamination of groundwater due to the chemicals used in the fracking fluid. Additionally, the disposal of wastewater generated during the process poses challenges, as it can contain harmful substances. Fracking has also been linked to an increase in seismic activity in some areas. While most of these tremors are minor, they have raised concerns about the long-term stability of the regions where fracking occurs.
The Ongoing Debate
The debate over fracking is complex and multifaceted. Proponents argue that it is a crucial tool for achieving energy independence and economic prosperity. They emphasize the industry’s efforts to improve safety and environmental practices. Opponents, on the other hand, highlight the potential risks to water resources, air quality, and public health. They advocate for stricter regulations and, in some cases, an outright ban on fracking.
The Future of Fracking
The future of fracking in the United States remains uncertain. As the nation grapples with the challenges of climate change and the need for cleaner energy sources, the role of fracking is likely to evolve and has already been raised as an issue of vigorous debate in the 2024 presidential election. Technological advancements and stricter regulations may help mitigate some of the environmental concerns, but the debate is far from over.
In Conclusion
Fracking is a complex issue with both significant benefits and potential drawbacks. As the United States continues to navigate its energy future, finding a balance between energy production and environmental protection will be crucial. The fracking debate is a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the nation as it seeks to secure its energy needs while safeguarding the planet for future generations.
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, foreign policy takes center stage. The Council on Foreign Relations provides comprehensive resources to track candidates’ policies, monitor critical global issues, and understand the evolving role of the United States in the world.
Vice President Kamala Harris seeks the presidency amidst ongoing foreign policy challenges, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip. Former President Donald Trump aims to return to his “America First” policies, a significant departure from traditional Democratic approaches. Jill Stein, the Green Party’s candidate, advocates for a non-interventionist stance, criticizing U.S. military involvement overseas and supporting maintaining current levels of international aid.
The upcoming 2024 US presidential election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in foreign policy. The candidates vying for the presidency bring starkly different visions of America’s role in the world.
For a list of the remaining 2024 Presidential Candidates, click HERE.
Incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris, representing the Democratic Party, seeks to build upon the Biden-Harris administration’s foreign policy agenda while navigating complex geopolitical challenges.
Former President Donald Trump, the Republican frontrunner, is campaigning on a platform of “America First” policies. His approach emphasizes a departure from traditional alliances and a focus on prioritizing American interests above all else.
Jill Stein, the Green Party candidate, offers a non-interventionist perspective. She has been a vocal critic of American military involvement overseas and advocates for a more restrained foreign policy. And Cornell West, an intellectual running for president as an independent, states his foreign policy position as, “Cease all war funding and weapons to Ukraine and invest in peacemaking.”
Libertarian, Chase Oliver states his policy position on foreign aid and relations as, “End aid being directed to nation-states currently at war. This includes Israel and Ukraine. While we offer moral support to our friends currently engaged with the enemy, we should not be contributing to extending the fight.” Randall Terry, under the banner of the Constitution Party, focused his campaign on pro-life policies. His website states, “Our campaign has 3 Goals to Defend Children, Defeat the Democrat nominee and Destroy the Democrat Party.”
With such contrasting viewpoints, the 2024 election promises to be a defining moment for the future direction of US foreign policy. Voters will have a crucial decision to make, as the outcome will undoubtedly shape America’s engagement with the world for years to come.
California’s controversial AB 1840 bill has ignited a fierce debate surrounding the state’s housing policies. The bill, which has already passed in the Assembly and is now headed for a floor vote in the Democrat-run Senate, proposes to extend the California Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan program to undocumented migrants.
This program, launched in 2023, provides interest-free loans to first-time homebuyers for down payments or closing costs. The loans are repaid when the property is sold or refinanced, along with 20% of the increase in the home’s value. While the program aims to make homeownership more accessible, its expansion to undocumented migrants has drawn both support and criticism.
Arguments in Favor
Proponents of AB1840 argue that homeownership is a fundamental right that should be available to all Californians, regardless of their immigration status. They contend that the bill promotes economic stability and social equity by allowing undocumented migrants to build generational wealth and contribute to their communities.
Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula, a Fresno Democrat and the bill’s sponsor, emphasizes the historical significance of homeownership in the United States as a means of accumulating wealth. He believes that extending the program to undocumented migrants is a step towards achieving a more inclusive and equitable society.
Arguments Against
Critics of AB1840, including San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, view the bill as a misuse of taxpayer funds. They argue that California, which is already grappling with a budget deficit, should prioritize the needs of its citizens, including homeless veterans, before extending benefits to undocumented migrants.
Opponents also express concerns about the potential strain on the program’s resources and the possibility of increased wait times for eligible applicants. They question the fairness of providing financial assistance to individuals who have not entered the country legally.
Public Reaction
The bill has sparked strong reactions from Californians, with many taking to social media to voice their opinions. While some applaud the bill as a progressive measure, others denounce it as “insane,” “nonsense,” and “evil.” Some critics have even called for a “taxpayer revolt.”
Joaquin Arambula, author; Home Purchase Assistance Program: eligibility
The Road Ahead
The fate of AB1840 now rests in the hands of the California Senate. If the bill passes, it will be sent to Governor Gavin Newsom for final approval. The outcome of this legislative process will have significant implications for California’s housing policies and the ongoing debate over immigration reform.
“On July 28, 1868, the 14th amendment was declared, in a certificate of the Secretary of State, ratified by the necessary 28 of the 37 States, and became part of the supreme law of the land.” – National Archives
The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution was adopted on 1868-07-09. It was one of the three Reconstruction Amendments adopted after the Civil War. The 14th Amendment has been interpreted to protect a wide range of individual rights, including the right to due process of law, the right to equal protection under the law, and the right to vote.
Background
The 14th Amendment was drafted in response to the Black Codes, a series of laws passed by Southern states after the Civil War that restricted the rights of African Americans. The amendment was designed to protect the civil rights of African Americans and to ensure that they were treated equally under the law.
Key Provisions
The 14th Amendment contains several key provisions, including:
The Citizenship Clause, which states that “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.”
The Due Process Clause, which states that no state shall “deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law.”
The Equal Protection Clause, which states that no state shall “deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”
Interpretation
The 14th Amendment has been interpreted by the Supreme Court in a number of landmark cases. These cases have established that the 14th Amendment protects a wide range of individual rights, including:
The right to due process of law, which means that the government must follow certain procedures before it can deprive a person of life, liberty, or property.
The right to equal protection under the law, which means that the government must treat all people equally.
The right to vote, which is guaranteed by the 15th Amendment but is also protected by the 14th Amendment.
Legacy
The 14th Amendment has had a profound impact on American law and society. It has been used to protect the rights of African Americans, women, and other marginalized groups. It has also been used to strike down laws that discriminate against these groups. The 14th Amendment is a key part of the foundation of American democracy.
Kamala Devi Harris, the 49th and current vice president of the United States is a prominent figure in American politics and law. Her distinction and political journey is marked by groundbreaking achievements and significant milestones. As a member of the Democratic Party, Harris’s election to the vice presidency in 2020 made her the first female to hold this high office. Her ascendancy to the second-highest position in the United States government shattered long-standing barriers and set a precedent for future generations.
Harris’s vice presidency is not only historic but also reflective of the evolving demographics and aspirations of the American people. Growing up as the daughter of immigrants from India and Jamaica, Harris embodies the diversity that has come to define the United States. Her background as a prosecutor and attorney general in California brought valuable experience and perspective to the vice presidential role. Harris’s commitment to justice and her advocacy for criminal justice reform earned her respect from both sides of the aisle.
As vice president, Harris has taken on a range of responsibilities, including serving as the chair of the National Space Council and leading diplomatic efforts on behalf of the United States. Her foreign policy engagements have focused on strengthening alliances, promoting democracy, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and poverty. Harris’s vice presidency has not been without its challenges. She has faced criticism from both within and outside her party, with some arguing that she has not done enough to address pressing issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, economic inequality, border security and immigration.
Despite the obstacles, Harris has remained resilient and committed to her role as vice president. Her work reflects her deep-seated belief in the importance of public service and her dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of all Americans. As she continues to serve the nation, Harris now stands as the Democratic Party symbol of hope, progress, and the unwavering pursuit of a more just and equitable society, now that President Joe Biden is stepping aside as a candidate in the 2024 election. He threw his endorsement behind Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
The president’s statement on X reads, “My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best decision I’ve made. Today I want to offer my full support and endorsement for Kamala to be the nominee of our party this year. Democrats — it’s time to come together and beat Trump. Let’s do this.” With reports suggesting Sen. Joe Manchin may change party and challenge Harris, the vice president will start to consolidate support from Democratic legislators, governors and advocacy groups.
Political assassinations have been a recurring feature in American history, often shaping the course of the nation. From presidents to civil rights leaders, these targeted killings have left a lasting impact.
In 1865, President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a Confederate sympathizer. This event shocked the nation and had far-reaching consequences for Reconstruction and the future of race relations in America. Decades later, in 1963, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald in Dallas, Texas. The assassination led to widespread grief and conspiracy theories that persist to this day.
Civil rights leaders were also targets of political assassinations. In 1965, Malcolm X was assassinated by members of the Nation of Islam, and in 1968, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated by James Earl Ray. These killings were a major setback for the civil rights movement and highlighted the deep racial divisions in American society.
What were the motives behind the assassination of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.?
The motives behind the assassinations of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. were complex and multifaceted.
In the case of Malcolm X, his assassination, with alleged covert government assistance, was carried out by members of the Nation of Islam, a group he had once been a prominent member of. However, he had become increasingly critical of the Nation and its leader, Elijah Muhammad, in the years leading up to his death. His criticisms and his formation of a rival organization, the Organization of Afro-American Unity, are believed to have been key factors in the decision to assassinate him.
The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. was carried out by James Earl Ray, a white supremacist. Ray had a history of racism and criminal activity. While his exact motives remain somewhat unclear, it is widely believed that his hatred of King and the civil rights movement played a significant role in his decision to commit the assassination.
In both cases, the assassinations were driven by a combination of political, ideological, and personal factors. They were acts of violence that had a profound impact on the civil rights movement and American society as a whole.
More recently, there have been attempts on the lives of other political figures. In 2011, Congresswoman Gabby Giffords was shot in the head during a constituent event in Tucson, Arizona. She survived but was left with severe injuries. And in 2024, former President Donald Trump was reportedly shot at by a sniper during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. He was not injured, but the incident underscored the ongoing threat of political violence.
And these are just a few examples of the many political assassinations that have taken place in America. These events have had a profound impact on the nation, shaping its history and its politics. It is important to remember these events and to learn from them, so that we can work to prevent future acts of political violence, like the recent assassination attempt of Republican nominee for president, well known for his own incitement of political violence, former president Donald Trump who survived a snipers bullets that nearly ending his life. The shooting at Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania took the life of one rally attendee and wounded several others.
Here are a few other attempted assassinations and assassinations of U.S. presidents in American history:
James Garfield: Wounded July 2, 1881, he died 79 days later
William McKinley: Wounded September 6, 1901, he died 8 days later
Theodore Roosevelt: Attempted assassination on Oct 14, 1912
Andrew Jackson: Attempted assassination Jan. 30, 1835 outside the Capitol Building
William Howard Taft: Attempted assassination alleged in 1909 and 1910
Herbert Hoover: Attempted assassination alleged in 1928
Franklin D. Roosevelt: Attempted assassination Feb 15, 1933
Harry S. Truman: Attempted assassination in 1947 during the Jewish insurgency in Palestine before the formation of the State of Israel, and November 1, 1950, Puerto Rican pro-independence activists
Richard Nixon: Attempted assassination on April 13, 1972 and on February 22, 1974
Gerald Ford: Attempted assassination August 1974; September 5, 1975; September 22, 1975
Jimmy Carter: Alleged attempted assassination May 5, 1979
In March 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson shocked the nation by announcing that he would not seek re-election. This decision came after months of speculation and pressure from within his own party.
There were several factors that contributed to Johnson’s decision. One was the growing unpopularity of the Vietnam War. The war had become increasingly unpopular with the American public, and Johnson’s approval ratings had plummeted. Another factor was the growing opposition to Johnson within his own party. Many Democrats felt that Johnson had become too authoritarian and that his policies were too divisive.
Finally, Johnson’s health was also a factor in his decision. He had suffered a heart attack in 1955, and he was concerned that the stress of the campaign would be too much for him. In his announcement, Johnson said that he had made the “difficult decision” to drop out of the race in order to “put the welfare of the country first.” He also said that he believed that the Democratic Party could unite and defeat the Republican candidate, Richard Nixon. Johnson’s decision to drop out of the race had a significant impact on the 1968 presidential election. Nixon went on to win the election, and the Vietnam War continued to divide the country for many years to come.
The cyclical nature of history
Today, America has reached a similar reflection point in the reelection of President Biden. And the barbaric genocide of the Palestinian people at the hands of our so-called ally, Israel, reawakens the horrors of Vietnam. The nation is facing an uncertain future without a savior, a champion for The People, one able to fight for a more just and equitable future. And former president Trump, responsible for the January 6th attack on the Capitol and indicted on 34 felony counts, is the candidate being forced down our throats despite the real threat he presents to the ideals and hope for an America that has yet to be.
Consistently repeating false narratives, the American people are manipulated and heavily propagandized by corporate media to believe that we are faced with choosing one of the two supporters of Israel’s genocide that has killed 40,000 people and counting, mostly innocent civilians; women, children, and the elderly, including journalists. This, despite having other viable candidates to choose from like Jill Stein, the Green Party candidate and Cornel West, an Independent, and a few others that have not yet dropped out of the race for the White House. The media ignores them all by way of manipulation and false offerings. It is simply un-American. And it is so because our country has been compromised by our elected leaders who took bribes from lobbyists and corporations and sold us all out. Today, it’s evident who controls Congress: AIPAC, an Israeli foreign lobby. And if the recent unseating of Rep. Jamaal Bowman didn’t give a clue, here’s the mail, it never fails.
What’s happening globally will hurt us domestically
The barbarism taking place with boastful impunity in full HD has shaken the world, not just America. And our government’s role in these atrocities lies squarely before Biden and Trump. They both support the genocide and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people for the sake of religious zealots; Zionists who confidently believe there is no God, and at the same time, say they are God’s “chosen people” and above all others. Imagine that. And we can’t forget what our government is actively doing in Ukraine and Russia, against our will. And these aren’t the only two conflicts America is engaged in. What’s happening in Haiti tells of a coming storm too, the likes of which the world has never seen.
The recent rulings by the Supreme Court, also a compromised institution, is deliberately weakening federal regulations, producing earthquake-like shockwaves to our legal system and governing structure right before our eyes. Why? Because Congress is compromised, too. Congress is being bought and sold at auction by lobbyists, corporations and foreign influences intent on our destruction and downfall as a powerful nation. And corporate media is driving the bus fast and furious. They blatantly lie to the American people with comfortable ease, especially when they offer us two false choices–Biden and Trump–to lead us into an uncertain future under global duress. Folks, America is in trouble and the rot started within.
Will Biden step aside?
If history has any merit, yes. And the calls are coming in loud and clear in the face of his party’s denial and panic at their offering for a leader following a disastrous debate; a clearly feeble man in his 80s who needs assistance to walk and talk. The contempt the Democratic Party is showing it has for We, the People is profound. Major news corporations, owned by vicious oligarchs who see profit instead of people, are now calling on Biden to step down. “The truth Mr. Biden needs to confront now is that he failed his own test,” the NYT editorial board wrote. In return, they’re offering the American people only one choice: an unhinged racist felon that will help drive their ultimate agenda, the implementation of Project 2025.
Who do we run to?
No one. We, the People ARE the government. And it is up to each and every one of us to show up and vote, because our very lives are at stake. Will Biden repeat the story of Truman? Who knows, but it’s a risk Democrats are apparently willing to take. And if The Heritage Foundation gets its way, neoconservative Republicans and their Project 2025 agenda will turn us back to a wrinkle in time when white supremacy and racial barbarism ruled America. We can’t let that happen.
Americans must take responsibility for their country, see all the real and clear choices before them, and vote to hold our rogue government tearing us apart accountable.
Biden and Trump are not our saviors. They are the symbolic anchors keeping America in a sunken place. I believe America is worth saving, and who you vote for will determine if we have a chance at turning back toward the America Langston Hughes dreamed of not so long ago. We must all be at the table when company comes, because our elected officials have no right to give foreign governments, lobbyists and corporations the authority to send us to the kitchen while they feast on our hard earned harvest. The American Dream belongs to Americans, not to lawbreakers, the highest bidders and corrupt politicians.
Power belongs to We, the People. Let’s vote to take it back and change the course for America’s future, together.
