Technology

Human Rights Watch Exposes Meta’s Censorship on Palestine

Human Rights Watch reveals Meta’s systematic censorship of pro-Palestinian content on Instagram and Facebook, documenting 1,050 cases globally. Flawed policies, opaque enforcement, and government influence contribute to suppression. Urgent call for transparency and corrective action.

December 27, 2023

Meta Censorship Report
Meta’s content moderation policies face criticism in a Human Rights Watch report, accusing the company of systematically censoring content supportive of Palestine on Instagram and Facebook. Human Rights Watch

Impact on Palestinian Expression
Meta's censorship exacerbates the suppression of Palestinian voices during a period of significant unrest and repression, hindering their ability to use social media as a platform for expression. Canva

Statement from Human Rights Watch
According to Deborah Brown, acting associate technology and human rights director at Human Rights Watch, Meta's censorship aggravates the erasure of Palestinian suffering during a critical time. Canva

Review of Online Censorship Cases
Human Rights Watch examined 1,050 cases of online censorship across more than 60 countries, revealing a consistent pattern of removal and suppression of content supporting Palestine. Canva

Context of Recent Hostilities
The censorship surge followed hostilities between Israeli forces and Palestinian armed groups, resulting in a significant number of casualties on both sides. Shaun King/Instagram

Patterns of Censorship
Six key patterns of censorship were identified, including content removals, account suspensions, restrictions on engagement, limitations on features, and the use of "shadow banning." Shaun King/Instagram

Ineffectiveness of Appeal Mechanism
In over 300 cases, users were unable to appeal content or account removal due to a malfunction in the appeal mechanism, denying them an effective remedy. Canva

Misapplication of Policies
Meta misapplied policies on dangerous organizations, violent content, hate speech, and nudity, impacting content documenting Palestinian injury and death with news value. Canva

Acknowledgment of Flawed Enforcement
Meta is aware of the flawed enforcement of its policies, as documented in a 2021 report, but has not effectively addressed the issues raised. ahhhnice/Flickr

Previous Investigation
An independent investigation in 2021 found that Meta's content moderation had adverse human rights impacts on Palestinian users, prompting commitments for policy changes. Canva

Unfulfilled Commitments
Despite commitments made in 2022 to improve policies and enforcement, Meta has failed to implement necessary changes, repeating past patterns of abuse. Canva

Human Rights Due Diligence
Meta's failure to meet its human rights due diligence responsibilities is emphasized, with calls for the company to align policies with international standards and ensure transparency. Canva

Summary of Censorship Patterns
A summary of the six key patterns of censorship, highlighting the removal of content, account suspension, restrictions on engagement, and the use of shadow banning. Canva

Global Systemic Censorship
The report indicates that Meta's inconsistent policy enforcement has led to global and systemic censorship of content related to Palestine on Instagram and Facebook. Canva

Flaws in Meta Policies
Identified flaws in Meta's policies, particularly the Dangerous Organizations and Individuals policy, are seen as contributing to the suppression of content supporting Palestine. Canva

Opaque Application of Policies
Meta's inconsistent application of its own policies, especially regarding exceptions for newsworthy content, is identified as a contributing factor to the censorship. Canva

Government Influence
The report points to Meta's apparent deference to government requests for content removals, such as those from Israel's Cyber Unit, as a factor in the censorship. Canva

Reliance on Automated Tools
Heavy reliance on automated tools for content removal is highlighted as a systemic factor, contributing to the erroneous removal of Palestine-related content. Canva

Calls for Transparency and Action
The report concludes with a call for Meta to demonstrate commitment by taking concrete steps towards transparency, addressing flaws, and ending Palestine-related censorship. Stop the War Coalition

U.S. News

South Korean Parasite Actor Dead at 48

Tragedy strikes as Lee Sun-kyun, acclaimed for his role in Parasite, is found dead at 48. Investigations into a suspected suicide unfold amid a drug-related inquiry, impacting both his career and personal life. A cinematic luminary, his legacy transcends the screen, leaving an indelible mark.

December 27, 2023

Tragedy Strikes
South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, renowned for his role in the Oscar-winning film Parasite, has been discovered dead at the age of 48 in central Seoul, according to recent police reports. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, with initial findings suggesting he was found unconscious in a car at a park.

A Mysterious Departure
Authorities received a report indicating that Lee had left his home after leaving a note. While it is uncertain whether he took his own life, ongoing investigations are underway. The news follows Lee Sun-kyun's involvement in a drug-related inquiry that had been ongoing since October. Canva

Ongoing Drug Investigation
Police inspect the scene where his body was found. Lee Sun-kyun had been under scrutiny for alleged drug use, suspected of consuming illicit substances at a bar in Seoul. He maintained his innocence, asserting that he was unaware of the nature of the substances provided to him. Despite negative or inconclusive drug test results, the investigation had taken a toll on his reputation, leading to his removal from the TV series "No Way Out." Youtube

Agency Speaks Out
HODU&U Entertainment, Lee's agency, released a statement expressing deep sorrow and despair at the tragic news. The agency urged the public to refrain from spreading false information based on speculation, emphasizing the need for a fair portrayal of Lee's final moments. Youtube

Career Cut Short
With an acting career spanning over two decades, Lee Sun-kyun left an indelible mark on Korean cinema. He starred in numerous films and TV shows, gaining widespread recognition throughout the 2010s. His international breakthrough came with Parasite, where he portrayed Park Dong-ik, the father in the affluent Park family infiltrated by members of a poor family. Kinocine/Wikicommons

Parasite's Acclaim
Parasite, the groundbreaking film that earned four Oscars in 2020, including Best Picture, catapulted Lee Sun-kyun to global stardom. His portrayal of Park Dong-ik contributed to the film's historic success as the first non-English language movie to clinch the prestigious award. Kinocine PARKJEAHWAN/Wikimedia Commons

Serious Ramifications of Drug Offenses
The incident sheds light on South Korea's senselessly stringent stance on minor soft drug offenses, particularly those involving marijuana. The legal repercussions, including potential prison sentences of up to five years for marijuana consumption, highlight the gravity of such allegations in the country. Canva

Personal Turmoil
The drug-related investigation not only impacted Lee Sun-kyun's professional standing but also caused considerable personal turmoil. Removed from "No Way Out," the actor faced challenges that ultimately overshadowed his illustrious career. Parasite

Family and Legacy
Married to actress Jeon Hye-jin with two sons, Lee Sun-kyun's personal life was intertwined with his career. As fans and the industry mourn his untimely death, his legacy as a talented actor and contributor to the global success of Korean cinema remains intact. KPCulture

World

German Police Keep Cologne Cathedral Closed Over X-mas Threat

Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, a normally festive beacon, stands eerily silent, closed to 100,000 visitors after an alleged terrorist threat. Liturgical services persist under tight security. A community unites, reflecting hope amidst heightened vigilance. One arrest offers a glimpse of relief.

December 26, 2023

Normally a Celebration Center
Cologne's Cathedral, a radiant symbol of Christmas joy, typically welcomes over 100,000 visitors during the holiday season. Jason Mrachina/Flickr

A Sudden Hush
Uncharacteristically, the cathedral remains closed to tourists due to an alarming terrorist threat, shrouding its grandeur in an eerie silence. CGP Grey/Creative Commons

An Unusual Void
Between services, the majestic building stands empty, devoid of the usual bustling crowds that bring life to its sacred halls during this festive season. Jason Mrachina/Flickr

Oliver Gassen
The Church Custodian, and head of security, announces that while liturgical services will proceed, the cathedral will be off-limits to tourists during the Christmas to New Year period. Oliver Gassen/LinkedIn

Security Intel Unveiled
Authorities receive intelligence pointing to a potential terrorist attack on Cologne Cathedral and a church in Vienna, specifically on New Year's Eve. German Police have also been eager to raid Pro-Palestine activist, seemingly without cause. Coincidentally, or not, officials have wrongfully tried to shift claims of German anti-semitism on to Muslim immigrants since October 7. Kölln Domm

Police Presence
Police increase their presence around the cathedral, scrutinizing attendees of traditional Christmas Eve services to ensure the safety of worshippers and visitors. Roberto Pfeil/dpa/picture alliance

Arrest in Germany
German law enforcement arrests an individual connected to the terrorist threat, providing a glimmer of hope for enhanced security. Police say a 30 year old man will remain in custody until Jan. 7. Roberto Pfeil/dpa/picture alliance

Historic Importance
**The Cologne Cathedral was the** **highest building in the world in 1880****, after 632 years of construction**. The Gothic masterpiece began construction around 1248. Uwe Aranas/CEphoto

U.S. News

Black Lives Activist-Journalist Shaun King Banned by Meta

Shaun King’s Christmas Instagram ban for pro-Palestine posts, reportedly pre-warned by Meta associates, adds to a controversial history. This incident underscores the complex intersection of social media, activism, and geopolitical dynamics, raising questions about online platform censorship and the influence of real-world events on digital expression.

December 26, 2023

A Christmas Ban
Shaun King's social media account was removed by Meta over the weekned. Here King is seen with his family on Christmas a few years ago. Shaun King

Activism and Initiatives
Shaun King gained prominence as an activist, particularly in the Black Lives Matter movement. He launched campaigns like Justice Together in 2015, aimed at addressing police brutality. In 2018, he co-founded Real Justice PAC, focusing on criminal justice reform at the local level. King's involvement in high-profile cases, such as the arrest of DeAndre Harris' attackers, brought attention to his activism. He has been attacked by both Right and Left establishment.

Early Life
Jeffery "Shaun King" was born on September 17, 1979, in Franklin County, Kentucky. Raised in Versailles, Kentucky, he faced racism and hate crimes during his upbringing. Despite challenges, King attended Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, where he became involved in student leadership and later earned a master's degree in history from Arizona State University. Instagram

Career Path
After a brief stint as a high school civics teacher, King worked in Atlanta's juvenile justice system before becoming a pastor at Total Grace Christian Center. In 2008, he founded Courageous Church in Atlanta, utilizing social media to recruit members. He later transitioned to writing and journalism, contributing to platforms like the Daily Kos, New York Daily News, and The Young Turks. Shaun King

Tamir Rice & Jazmine Barnes
Shaun King has been actively involved in raising awareness and funds for victims of racially charged incidents. Following the tragic shooting of 12-year-old Tamir Rice in 2014, King raised $60,000 through YouCaring.com for Rice's family. However, discrepancies emerged, with Rice's family stating they were unaware of King's efforts. This controversy led to the court seizing the raised money. In a similar vein, King played a role in the Jazmine Barnes case in 2018, offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Despite initial missteps in identifying a suspect, King's involvement was credited with aiding the investigation. Sanders Institute

Political Shifts
Initially affiliated with the Democratic Party, King left after the 2016 election, citing corruption and lack of neutrality during the primaries. He expressed initial reservations about supporting Kamala Harris and Joe Biden in the 2020 Democratic primaries due to their criminal justice positions but later acknowledged Harris's changed stance. King has been under attack from both Left and Right parties, Republicans and Democrats for his views on racial justice, police misconduct, government policy, and militarism. Shaun King

Recent Ban from Instagram & Palestine Posts
In recent developments, Shaun King was banned from Instagram for his pro-Palestine posts. Allegedly warned by friends working for Meta (formerly Facebook), this incident adds to King's history of controversy and brings attention to the intersection of social media, activism, and geopolitical issues. Shaun King/Instagram

Supporters Resist
King´s supporters will be sure to fight for his reinstatement on the platform. It raises questions on the future of Meta products for digital communication and online organizing. Instagram

Technology

Should World’s Richest Man Get Government Funding?

As could be expected, the worlds riches man is seeking a government handout without criticism from fiscal conservatives. Musk, with over $222 billion is making an unabashed plea for government assistance. This prompts inquiries into the motivations and circumstances behind the move and challenges libertarian perceptions of self-sufficiency.

December 25, 2023

Ambitious $100 Million Request
Tesla's visionary, Elon Musk, has submitted a groundbreaking proposal to the U.S. government, seeking $100 million in funding for the construction of nine Megacharging stations. These stations are strategically planned to facilitate the charging of Tesla's all-electric Semi trucks, revolutionizing the transportation sector. Clever Rebel

Charging California to Texas
Tesla's funding request aims to establish nine Megacharging stations along the critical route from Northern California to the southern border of Texas. This strategic positioning reflects Tesla's commitment to enabling efficient travel for its all-electric Semis, showcasing the company's forward-thinking approach to sustainable transportation. Matt De Vlieger/Clever Rebel

Infrastructure Needed for Electric Tesla Truck
The $100 million proposal includes plans for each Megacharging station to feature up to eight individual 750-kilowatt chargers. This infrastructure would allow eight Tesla Semis to charge simultaneously at each of the nine locations, addressing the need for a robust and scalable charging network to support the growing fleet of electric trucks. Tesla

Begging Texas Officials for Funds
In a strategic move, Tesla is actively engaging Texas state officials to advocate for its funding request. The company is urging the state to formally request support from the federal government on its behalf, emphasizing the potential benefits of the Megacharging stations in enhancing regional and national transportation infrastructure. Canva

Rolling out the Electric Semi
Tesla's Semi prototype, unveiled in 2017, hit the streets in 2022 with PepsiCo receiving 15 all-electric sixteen-wheelers. This journey from prototype to commercial deployment signifies an evolutionionary step of clean energy transportation and sets the stage for broader adoption. Tesla

Semi vs. Climate Change
With the first all-electric sixteen-wheeler on the market, the clean energy vehicle looks to address an urgent need to reduce pollution in the atmosphere generated by industrial shipping. Tesla's push for Megacharging stations aligns with its mission to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation and the growth of its company and sales. Tesla

Addressing Shipping Cost on Environment
With 49.5 million tons of goods shipped daily in the United States, trucks, identified as the fastest-growing contributor to air pollution, play a significant role.

Tesla's Funding Approval Anticipation and its Implications
The approval of funding could propell Tesla's ambitious plan forward and also contribute to reshaping the landscape of sustainable transportation. It could also further Musk's own business goals and lead to further consolidation of the market by a single, government preferred company, rather than distributing investment to smaller and midsized businesses around the country. Tesla

Uncertain Future or Self Funding
There are questions around Tesla's strategy if the funding request faces rejection. Will the company invest its own resources in the plan? It begs the question, will Musk, the richest man in the world, pay up for his own product? Tesla

U.S. News

10 Crisis Hotlines to Get You Through Holidays

Here’s a gallery of 10 places you can call if your feeling down or if you’re in trouble.

December 24, 2023

There Are People Who Can Help
We all go through tough times. For some, the holidays can get a bit rough. Don't despair. It's normal to feel a bit down. There are also many people who are ready to help. If someone you know could use some assistance, please share this list or a number with them. Canva

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Phone: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
Website: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Crisis Text Line
Text "HELLO" to 741741
Website: Crisis Text Line Crisis Text Line

National Domestic Violence Hotline
Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)
Website: National Domestic Violence Hotline National Domestic Violence Hotline

Veterans Crisis Line
Phone: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
Text: 838255
Website: Veterans Crisis Line Veterans Crisis Line

SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357)
Website: SAMHSA National Helpline

LGBT National Help Center (LGBTQ+)
LGBT Hotline: 888-843-4564
LGBT Youth Talkline: 800-246-7743
LGBT Senior Hotline: 888-234-7243
Website: LGBT National Help Center LGBT National Help Center (LGBTQ+)

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Helpline
Phone: 1-800-931-2237
Website: NEDA Helpline NEDA

Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN)
Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (1-800-656-4673)
Website: RAINN RAINN

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline
:Phone: 1-800-950-NAMI (1-800-950-6264)
Website: NAMI Helpline NAMI

National Child Abuse Hotline
Phone: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
Website: Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline Childhelp

Travel

Airport Employees Commit $2.2 Million Luggage Theft in Spain

Fourteen employees at Tenerife South airport in the Canary Islands have been arrested for allegedly stealing items from checked-in luggage, with goods worth almost 2 million euros seized, raising concerns about airport security and the protection of passengers’ belongings.

December 24, 2023

Airport Staff Busted
Airport Workers Arrested for $2.2 million Luggage Theft in SpainFourteen employees at Tenerife South airport in the Canary Islands have been arrested for allegedly stealing items from checked-in luggage, with goods worth almost 2 million euros seized, raising concerns about airport security and the protection of passengers’ belongings. Guardia Civil

Pilfering Airport Staffers Face the Law
Spanish authorities have apprehended the fourteen employees at the Tenerife South airport in the Canary Islands on suspicion of pilfering items from passengers’ checked-in luggage. The alarming revelation has rocked the popular tourist destination, known for its idyllic climate and as a magnet for millions of European holiday-makers. Guardia Civil

Found in Possession
The arrested workers, part of the airport’s staff, were found in possession of stolen goods estimated to be worth nearly 2 million euros ($2.2 million), with the haul including approximately 13,000 euros ($14,000) in cash. A further 20 employees are currently under scrutiny as part of the ongoing investigation. Guardia Civil

Cracking Open Bags in Loading
Tenerife South airport, a gateway for around 11 million passengers annually, has been at the center of this scandal. The surge in passenger grievances over missing items from their luggage prompted the launch of the inquiry. According to the police statement, the thefts took place during the loading of baggage onto aircraft. The alleged perpetrators reportedly pried open suitcases inside the aircrafts’ hold, removed valuable contents, and resealed the luggage. Guardia Civil

The seized items encompassed a cache of **29 luxury wristwatches**, **120 pieces of jewelry**, **22 high-end cellphones**, and various electronic devices. Guardia Civil

Hidden Gems
It is suspected that the accused individuals had been offloading many other stolen items through online channels and local retail outlets. Guardia Civil

Gave Concern
The incident has sparked grave concerns about airport security and the safeguarding of passengers’ possessions. Guardia Civil

Solving the Problem
Authorities are now redoubling efforts to fortify security measures and ensure the safety and integrity of travelers’ belongings as they transit through Tenerife South airport, aiming to rebuild trust in the airport’s operations. Guardia Civil

World

Christmas Cancelled in the Birthplace of Christ

This pictorial report captures the poignant atmosphere in Bethlehem, the revered birthplace of Jesus Christ, as it cancels traditional Christmas festivities in a show of solidarity with Palestinians affected by the conflict in Gaza. Reverend Mitri Raheb and Pastor Isaac Munther reflect on the deep connections between the Christmas story and the current struggles of displaced Gazans. It also highlights Pope Francis’ condemnation of Israel’s actions, congressional efforts to protect religious sites, and the growing fears of the potential extinction of the Christian presence in Gaza. Against the backdrop of the canceled celebrations, the world watches as Bethlehem grapples with the impact of the crisis on its historic significance and the broader implications for the region.

December 24, 2023

Jesus' Birthplace Bethlehem Cancels Christmas
Above the location believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, a painting adorns the space within the Grotto of the Nativity—an underground cave situated beneath the Basilica of the Nativity. Bethlehem, located in the occupied West Bank of Palestine pauses to mourn the situation in Gaza. Dan Lundberg/Flickr

Bethlehem's Silent Night
In a poignant display of unity with the suffering Palestinians in Gaza, Bethlehem, the sacred birthplace of Jesus Christ, has made the heart-wrenching decision to cancel its traditional Christmas festivities. The streets normally adorned with lights and decorations during the holiday season, now bear a somber atmosphere as the city grapples with the ongoing conflict and its toll on the region. Above, you see Manger Square at Christmas, Bethlehem, Palestine, in 2012. Ben & Gab/Flickr

Bethlehem Mourns, World Watches
The image from 1890 show Pilgrims entering Bethlehem at Christmas time. Bethlehem has been a significant pilgrimage site for Christians for centuries. As the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem holds deep religious and historical significance for Christians worldwide. Pilgrims from various denominations visit Bethlehem to connect with the roots of their faith, participate in religious ceremonies, and experience the cultural and spiritual heritage associated with the biblical narrative of the birth of Jesus. The Church of the Nativity, built over the traditional site of Jesus' birth, is a major pilgrimage destination and a symbol of Bethlehem's enduring role in Christian pilgrimage. Library of Congress/ Wikimedia Commons

Symbolism Amidst Rubble
Delivering a sermon against the poignant backdrop of a nativity scene surrounded by rubble, Reverend Isaac Munther, a Palestinian pastor in Bethlehem, speaks passionately about the symbolism of Christmas amid the ongoing crisis. Despite the cancellation of festive celebrations, Reverend Munther asserts that the spirit of Christmas cannot be extinguished, echoing a message of hope in the face of adversity. Reverend Isaac Munther/Twitter

Reverend Mitri Raheb's Reflection
Reverend Mitri Raheb, the esteemed president of Dar al-Kalima University in Bethlehem, shared his insights with Democracy Now! on the profound connection between the Christmas story and the struggles of displaced Gazans. Drawing parallels between the biblical narrative of a refugee family seeking refuge and the challenges faced by Gazans today, Reverend Raheb emphasizes that the Christmas story is inherently a Palestinian story, calling for greater awareness and action from the global Christian community. Mitiri Raheb/mitriraheb.org

Pope Francis Condemns Acts of Terrorism
The international stage reacts as Pope Francis condemns Israel's actions in Gaza, specifically citing an incident where an Israeli sniper killed two women seeking refuge in a Catholic church. The Pope's strong words underscore the urgent need for global attention and intervention in the escalating crisis, particularly concerning the safety of religious sites in the region.

On Nov. 22, Pope Francis met with residents of Gaza. Vatican Media

Born Under the Rubble
As Bethlehem mourns and cancels its traditional Christmas celebrations, the world watches closely, grappling with the complexities of the situation in Gaza and the broader implications for the region. The photo encapsulates the heavy atmosphere in Bethlehem during what is typically a festive season, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for global attention and intervention.

Reverend Isaac Munther, a Palestinian pastor in Bethlehem said: "If Christ were to be born today, he'd be born under the rubble. Reverend Isaac Munther/Twitter

Congressional Efforts & Persistent Attacks
Efforts by congressional staffers to protect religious institutions in Gaza through the provision of coordinates have faced obstacles, as attacks on churches persist. Politico reports on the challenges faced by aid organizations and the ongoing struggles to shield churches and convents from military strikes, raising concerns about the broader impact of the conflict on the Christian community. Canva

A Reverend's Fear for Christians
Reverend Mitri Raheb expresses deep concern and fear that the current situation could mark "the end of the Christian presence in Gaza." Highlighting the rich history of Christianity in the region, dating back over 2,000 years, Reverend Raheb laments the potential extinction of this community due to the ongoing conflict and calls for international attention to prevent such a tragic outcome.

"People are not coming, because of the war." Democracy Now!

Culture

Xmas’s Masked Mummers of Samhain Tradition

Delving into the enchanting traditions of Samhain, our exploration uncovers the whimsical world of Mummers. These ancient Celtic and Nordic merrymakers, donned in elaborate costumes and masks, brought lighthearted entertainment to the transition from harvest to winter. With a blend of theater and folk customs, Mummers engaged in playful performances, adding a touch of humor to ward off mischievous spirits during Samhain. The article delves into the origins and evolution of Mummers, celebrating their role in the intersection of serious ritual and playful festivities, leaving an indelible mark on cultural celebrations worldwide.

December 24, 2023

Ancient Tradition
Step into the ancient Celtic celebration of Samhain, where the Mummers link between the living and the spirit world. As the harvest season bid adieu and winter's chill set, these masked merrymakers brought a dash of curiosity and lighthearted enchantment to the mystical traditions of Samhain.

Between Two Worlds
Mummers, adorned in fantastical costumes that blurred the line between the earthly and otherworldly, embarked on a journies from house to house. Their mission? To entertain, enchant, and perhaps even ward off mischievous spirits during the enchanting days of Samhain. Mummers in Poland on Shrove Tuesday

Summoning Spirits
Think of Mummers as the ancient version of trick-or-treaters, armed not with threats but with verses, songs, and playful performances. Imagine a fusion of theater and folk customs, where the line between reality and fantasy becomes as thin as the veil between our world and the spirit realm. Wikimedia Commons

Costumes and Disguises
Draped in elaborate costumes that might make today's Halloween enthusiasts green with envy, Mummers were the original trendsetters of supernatural style. Masks, disguises, and vibrant attire were not just for show – they were tools to confound and, with a touch of humor, chase away any pesky spirits looking to stir up trouble. Margaret Faye Shaw Photographic Archive/NTS Canna House

Fun Performances
As Mummers meandered through communities, their performances became a delightful spectacle, a showcase of creativity and a communal celebration of the mysterious forces that Samhain brought forth. It was a time when serious rituals blended seamlessly with lighthearted play, creating an atmosphere where laughter and awe danced hand in hand. Margaret Faye Shaw Photographic Archive/NTS Canna House

The Spirit Lives
The playful spirit lives on, not just during Samhain but also in various festive seasons around the world. From verses and dances to the intricate art of disguise, the Mummers' legacy has left an indelible mark on the tapestry of cultural celebrations. Public Domain

Tradition Continues
Over the centuries, the Mummers' tradition evolved, much like a lively theatrical performance that adapts to the times.

Respect for Mumming Today
So, the next time you don a costume or witness a street performance, tip your hat to the Mummers of Samhain's past. In their playful footsteps, we find a curious blend of the mystical and the mirthful, inviting us to embrace the enchantment that lingers in the air during this magical time of year. Armagh Rhymers/Library of Congress

Let's Bring Back Mumming on Xmas
Armagh Rhymers/Library of Congress

U.S. News

Jesus of Nazareth was a Jewish, Palestinian, Refugee

In the midst of ancient Palestine’s political turmoil and cultural diversity, Jesus, born into a humble family, faced displacement within his homeland. His family’s journey to Egypt mirrored the struggles of modern-day refugees, escaping persecution. Returning to Nazareth, cultural tensions persisted as the family sought belonging.

Jesus’ ministry resonated with the marginalized, drawing parallels with refugee experiences. The crucifixion in Jerusalem, against a backdrop of political upheaval, symbolized sacrifice, while the resurrection embodied hope. This narrative explores universal themes of compassion and resilience, inspiring empathy and unity in the face of adversity.

December 24, 2023

An Important Birth In Palestine
In the ancient land of Palestine, a humble Jewish family welcomed a son named Jesus. Born into a world marked by political unrest and cultural diversity, Jesus' early years unfolded against a backdrop of societal challenges.

According to Christian tradition and the New Testament of the Bible, Jesus was born in a manger in Bethlehem because there was no room for his family in the inn. The Gospel of Luke provides the most detailed account of the Nativity, describing how Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem for the census. Due to the influx of people returning to their ancestral homes, the inns were crowded, and they were unable to find proper accommodations. Hamada Atallah/Palestinian History Tapestry

A Date for Debate
The exact year of Jesus' birth is a topic of historical debate, and there is no consensus among scholars. However, it is commonly believed that Jesus was born between 4 and 6 BCE (Before Common Era). So, as of the current date in 2023, it would be approximately 2029 to 2031 years ago. Keep in mind that the historical record is not precise, and these estimates are based on interpretations of historical and biblical sources. Artist James Tissot/Brooklyn Museum

Early Years in Bethlehem
Growing up in Bethlehem, Jesus' family, like others of similar backround faced hardships amid Roman rule. The cultural tensions and political struggles around him framed his perception of the world. He was, in essence, a refugee within his homeland. John Everett Millais/Public Domain

Flight to Egypt as a Refugee
As the political climate intensified, Jesus and his family embarked on a perilous journey to Egypt, mirroring the experiences of modern-day refugees. Their story unfolded against a backdrop of persecution and the search for a new home in a foreign land.

Return to Nazareth
Upon returning to Nazareth, Jesus and his family grappled with cultural adjustments and tensions. Displacement and the quest for a sense of belonging became integral to their narrative. James Tissot/Brooklyn Museum

The Ministry
In adulthood, Jesus initiated his ministry, weaving teachings that resonated with the marginalized and displaced. His parables drew direct parallels with the challenges faced by refugees, emphasizing compassion and empathy. These became the foundation for the New Testament. Vocation of the Apostles (1481) by Domenico Ghirlandaio/Web Gallery of Art

Roman Crucifixion in Jerusalem, Palestine
The events leading to Jesus' crucifixion were set against a backdrop of political turmoil. His resurrection symbolized hope and renewal, reflecting the resilience of refugees overcoming adversity. According to Christian tradition and biblical accounts, Jesus was crucified in Jerusalem. The specific location is believed to be a hill outside the city walls, known as Golgotha or Calvary. This event is a central and significant aspect of Christian theology, marking the crucifixion as the means of atonement for sins and the eventual resurrection of Jesus. The exact historical accuracy of these details, however, can be challenging to verify with certainty due to the limited historical records from that time. Gaudenzio Ferrari/Public Domain

The Real Jesus
Jesus' life as a Jewish Palestinian refugee became a universal narrative, transcending cultural and historical boundaries. His legacy endured as a symbol of compassion and justice, inspiring empathy, understanding, and unity in the face of displacement and adversity.

The image shows a rendering of what the real, historical Jesus may have looked.

U.S. News

Charger Gap Still Barrier As 2023 EV Sales Hit 1 Million

The Biden administration aims for electric vehicles to constitute 50% of new car sales by 2030, but The New York Times suggests that this target might face delays due to the slow deployment of charging stations. Ohio and New York are the sole states to have established federally-funded charging stations, despite a $5 billion allocation by lawmakers two years ago for a nationwide fast charging network. Although electric vehicle sales surpassed one million this year in the United States, the persistent concern of “range anxiety” among potential buyers poses a significant obstacle to adoption.

December 24, 2023