Starting with some art…
It feels very appropriate that this image is coming up in my good news feed given that at the time I created it, it was during the 2020 election.
I do not know where you lovely readers fall politically and I personally have my own preferences. However, we all need to remember this as the political season gets into full swing…
“There are three things I have learned never to discuss with people… Religion, Politics, and The Great Pumpkin. ”
― Charles Schulz
So let’s just stick to the good news. Also don’t forget to vote. It is your right to do so and no one should stop you.
Now to the Good News…
‘Ban on book bans’ introduced in Minnesota Legislature
In a time where we are seeing an increase in people trying to limit what people are allowed to read, Minnesota is taking steps to ensure that people are allowed access to everything. The state’s house and senate have both introduced bills that “Ban Book Bans”. The support for this seems pretty overwhelming and is likely to pass, which is a good thing because it is not for one or a few people to decide for others what they can and cannot read.
“Censorship is telling a man he can’t have a steak just because a baby can’t chew it.”
I feel pretty lucky to have grown up in a household where no one told me what I could and could not read, and even luckier that I could go to my parents about that which I didn’t understand. It shaped who I am today and I hope to do the same with my own children. We shouldn’t censor we should explain, discuss, and develop critical thinking skills in our children.
‘Planting a tree is hope in action’: the people regenerating urban habitats and growing community
Starting in local neighborhoods, Australia is re-wilding spaces that have fallen into disrepair and neglect. These initiatives are helping communities come together. They work to plant and grow native plants and bring thriving spaces for native plants and animals, helping pollinators. The initiative is promoting even the simple act of planting a local tree, and connecting people with larger efforts when necessary. If you happen to live in Australia check out the article or look into one of these programs for further involvement.
NaviLens: championing inclusive urban transport for the blind and visually impaired
I may be optimistic but if you ask most people, they would say that they want the world to be more fair for everyone and that fairness should include people with disabilities. To that end, NaviLens, is a company that is trying to help those with vision related disabilities navigate public transit in cities. The company, which was founded in Spain, is a testament to human ingenuity. The app uses specially designed algorithms that provide real time data about things like, how much longer to the next train, or is the escalator working, just from scanning a code. The system has been implemented in multiple transit systems around the world, including New York, and has a potential to be game changing technology that will allow for people who are visually impaired to get around with more autonomy. What a wonderful innovation that has the beginnings of real change that can benefit so many people.
Thank you so much for joining me on my journey through the good news this week.
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