IT’S THE GUNS!!! IT’S THE GUNS!!! IT’S THE GUNS!!! IT’S THE GUNS!!! IT’S THE GUNS!!! IT’S THE GUNS!!! IT’S THE GUNS!!!
Link to Newsletter: https://open.substack.com/pub/easternilindivisible/p/newsletter-week-of-22nd-27th-of-september?r=5kv5w9&utm_medium=ios
Hi y’all – hope you’re doing well, taking care. The news is heavy, so here are a ton of cartoons to make light of it — and then some cat photos at the end just to top it off! 🦋 -Cecelia
(I was supposed to be on vacation)
https://open.substack.com/pub/easternilindivisible/p/bluewingthings-to-do-in-case-of-coup?r=5kv5w9&utm_medium=ios
To access the Newsletter ^
Like many GenXer’s, I grew up watching the Cosby Show. I loved it. I must say that I enjoyed Malcolm-Jamal Warner on The Resident as well, his character always brought flair & much needed class.
Rest in Power, Malcolm-Jamal Warner 🕯️
Come closer, baby—
let me tell you ’bout a man who walked
like thunder
and prayed like roots growing under fire.
His name was John.
But folks call him something else now—
Troublemaker.
Marcher.
Saint in sneakers.
He sat where they said, “No Coloreds.”
Stood where they said, “Back down.”
Bled where they said, “Behave.”
And still—he smiled.
Now don’t get it twisted:
Good trouble ain’t clean.
It’ll break your heart open
and demand you use both hands.
And yet—he said:
“Get in the way.”
So we did.
And still do.
Though—he said:
“Do not get lost in a sea of despair.”
So we built boats out of poems,
paddles from protest signs,
and rowed toward better days.
And honey—he said:
“When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just—you have a moral obligation to do something.”
So we showed up:
hearts open,
voices strong.
Rural, loud, unbought.
Because he said:
“Never, ever be afraid to make some noise.”
So here’s our noise—
our song,
our stubborn kind of hope.
We learned:
To make trouble with tenderness.
To vote like our names were prayers.
To link arms and stay in line—
even when the bridge ahead is burning.
So now, baby—
when they ask who taught you
to fight like that,
to sing while marching,
to raise your voice in a whispering town—
Tell them:
“I had a teacher.
His name was Lewis.”
Cecelia English 🦋, July 2025
Link to Newsletter: https://open.substack.com/pub/easternilindivisible/p/newsletter-week-of-july-6-13-wrap?r=5kv5w9&utm_medium=ios
Goodies for you below.
This Week Was Devastating. Here’s Why We Can’t Look Away.
This week, Congress passed what I can only call the Big Bastard Bill—one of the largest upward transfers of wealth in modern history.
It rips away food assistance, housing support, health care, and basic human dignity from millions of people—while shoveling even more money and power into the hands of billionaires and federal agencies like ICE.
What we witnessed wasn’t just cruelty. It was strategy.
It was white supremacy in action: organized, well-funded, and increasingly unafraid to show its face.
This Is Not Subtle. And It’s Not “Just Politics.”
Let’s stop pretending.
The Confederate flag that once hid in basements now waves in statehouses.
Elected officials spout conspiracy theories, criminalize immigrants, and pass laws designed to erase civil rights and rewrite history.
And millions have been conditioned not to see it—or to dismiss it as “just politics.”
But it’s not just politics.
It’s racism. It’s white nationalism. And it’s growing.
Silence Is Complicity.
We have to name it—clearly, urgently, unapologetically:
White supremacy is alive.
It is embedded in our systems, our laws, and our political institutions.
And when we don’t speak up, we make room for it to grow.
For too long, even progressive movements—liberal, Democratic, grassroots—have hesitated to say the words out loud.
But we cannot fix what we refuse to face.
And we cannot build a multiracial democracy by avoiding the fight at the heart of our nation’s story.
This Fight Goes Back to the Beginning.
The Declaration of Independence—written nearly 250 years ago by enslavers and landowners—declared that “all men are created equal.”
It was a lie then.
But it also planted a seed of truth—waiting for us to claim it.
“…whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it…”
That line wasn’t written for 1776. It was written for us—for 2025.
This Government Is Destructive.
Right now, we’re living under a system that serves the wealthy, punishes the poor, and acts as if racism is over.
That is destructive.
That is unjust.
And if we believe in democracy—real, inclusive, multiracial democracy—then it’s up to us to alter it.
How We Alter It:
With truth-telling With organizing With legislation With collective care With courage and clarity
We don’t need to destroy the promise of America—we need to reclaim it.
We need to finish the work that was never meant for us—but now belongs to us.
Let 2025 Be the Year We Tell the Truth and Make Room for Everyone.
Let’s not leave the future in the hands of those who never meant for us to be part of it.
Let’s take it back—and build something better.
In Solidarity,
Cecelia 🦋
Weekend 🗞️ Top Stories You Should Know
🌊Death Toll from Texas Floods Nears 70, Including 21 Children
Links From the Week Ending 7/06/2025
‘Big Balls’ Is Now at the Social Security Administration | WIRED
Tommy Tuberville calls for Senate parliamentarian’s firing over Medicaid ruling
Trump Justice Dept. Pressuring University of Virginia President to Resign – The New York Times
Cuomo will stay on NYC mayor’s ballot after conceding Democratic primary to Mamdani,
sources tell CNN | CNN Politics
Supreme Court curbs injunctions that blocked Trump’s birthright citizenship plan
University of Virginia president, pressured over DEI, resigns rather than ‘fight federal
Senate blocks Iran war powers resolution
Good trouble: ‘GO **** YOURSELVES’: National park visitors slam feds in leaked park
comments
Around 100,000 march in Budapest Pride event in defiance of Hungary’s ban : NPR The march, described as the largest LGBTQ+ Pride event in Hungary’s history, took place in defiance of a ban implemented by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government. Organizers called it a rebuke of the government’s stance against LGBTQ+ rights.
The government had enacted a law making it an offense to hold or attend events that “depict or promote” homosexuality to minors. Police rejected requests to register the Pride march. However, Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony declared it would be held as a municipal event, which he argued didn’t require police approval. Despite government warnings of potential fines and even prison time, the event proceeded with a large turnout, including European Parliament members and other officials
Supreme Court upholds Affordable Care Act’s preventive care mandate – The Washington Post
Kyle Griffin: “Johnny Noviello moved from Canada to Daytona Beach when he was 10 years old.
He grew up in Florida and became a lawful permanent resident. On Monday, June 23, he died at the Federal Detention Center in downtown Miami, after six weeks in immigration detention.
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/i…Bluesky
Monday
2 firefighters were killed in a sniper-style ambush in Idaho. Here’s what we know | CNN
Trump DHS links data for new citizenship tracking tool : NPR
After decades in the US, Iranians arrested in Trump’s deportation drive
DOJ announces plans to prioritize cases to revoke citizenship : NPR
Teen girls shot near Stonewall Inn after Pride celebrations, NYPD says – Gothamist
Trump administration sues Los Angeles over sanctuary policies – POLITICO
Tuesday
Intercepted call of Iranian officials downplays damage of U.S. attack – The Washington Post
Espionage Act: Team Trump’s Latest Plan to Go After the Media
Senate bill allowed to ‘defund’ Planned Parenthood
Trump Administration Highlights: White House Presses for Trump’s Big Bill as Senators Trudge
Appeals court allows Georgetown researcher, previously detained by ICE, to remain free -POLITICO
The Big Bastard Bill passed.
Senator Tom Tillis isn’t running for reelection—because he couldn’t face the people he betrayed.
Josh Hawley? He stood tall and lied, right alongside the rest of the GOP.
Remember who they are.
Senator Murkowski voted yes.
She struck a backroom deal to shield her state—while leaving millions of Americans to suffer, starve, and die.
Remember who they are.
Kamala Harris once broke a tie—for the needy.
J.D. Vance just broke a tie—for the greedy.
One cast a vote for care.
The other, for cruelty.
They knew what this bill would do.
They passed it anyway.
“You cannot be afraid to speak up and speak out for what you believe. You have to have courage, raw courage.”-J.L.
So let’s speak.
Let’s organize.
Let’s make them remember.
Because this moment demands courage—and good trouble.
Remember who they are.
Remember Who They Are, Cecelia English, 2025
Samuel Alito Takes Pride in Gay-Bashing | The Nation
Wednesday
Trans swimmer Lia Thomas’ records revoked in UPenn deal with Trump admin
Former archivist raises red flags over NARA cuts
CBS owner Paramount settles Trump lawsuit over Harris interview for $16M – The Washington Post
At least 17 million Americans would lose health insurance under Trump plan – The Washington Post
US private sector lost 33,000 jobs in June, missing expectations for an increase of 115,000 |CNN Business
US judge blocks Trump asylum ban at US-Mexico border, says he exceeded authority | Reuters
Justice Dept. Explores Using Criminal Charges Against Election Officials – The New York Times –
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/02/us/politics/justice-department-election-data.html
Administration Directives: Senior officials have instructed Justice Department lawyers to investigate how a failure by state or local officials to meet security standards for electronic voting systems could be considered a crime.
Emphasis on Election Security: This effort is reportedly driven by the Trump administration’s assertions, without strong evidence, that American elections are vulnerable to fraud and manipulation.
Concerns about Mismanagement: The discussions explore the possibility of charging officials with criminally negligent mismanagement of election systems.
Surprise within the DOJ: Some prosecutors within the Justice Department have expressed surprise at this direction, finding it to be a novel and potentially aggressive approach.
DOJ Response: A Justice Department spokesman stated that the agency is exploring all options to promote “free, fair and secure elections”.
Impact on Election Officials: This potential action could significantly increase the stakes for state and local election officials, bringing the Justice Department and the possibility of criminal charges into the election process.
Thursday
Supreme Court will decide whether states can ban transgender girls from girls’ sports -POLITICO
Gag order in Abrego Regarding the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a federal judge in Tennessee has issued a gag order. This order was issued in early July 2025, in response to a request from Abrego Garcia’s defense lawyers.
Man arrested for trying to bring “ghost gun” into Capitol Hill office building – CBS News
A man who spent 27 years in prison for a murder he didn’t commit has been awarded $2.85 million – and a heartfelt apology – by state officials. “There are no words to express how deeply sorry we are for what was taken from you and for the failure of our justice system,” Lt. Gov. Aruna K. Miller said Wednesday while presiding over a Maryland Board of Public Works meeting.
Call to Action: Heyyy, we have a weekly Zoom meeting Monday night at 6:30pm • Eastern Illinois Indivisible hosts open Zoom meetings every Monday at 6:30 p.m.
If you’re curious, the Meeting ID is 925 1865 9494 & the passcode is 186649. No pressure—just conversation.
Week of Monday, June 16 – June 22, 2025
This week was marked by violence and assassination—and now ends with our so-called leader launching a war without constitutional authority.
We are watching lines break, one after another.
It feels like the Summer of Fire has begun.
But fire also clears the ground for new growth. And we are not powerless.
In every county, in every community, people are waking up, linking arms, and refusing to go quietly.
So yes—it’s dark. But we’ve lit torches before. And we’ll do it again.
“You are a light. You are the light. Never let anyone—any person or any force—dampen, dim, or diminish your light.”
— John Lewis
📰 Links from the Week Ending June 22, 2025
A round-up of key stories shaping our democracy, our communities, and our future.
📡 Immigration, Surveillance, and Detention
CBP flying surveillance aircraft over Phoenix ICE operations – Arizona Mirror
ICE detainees tear down wall in uprising at NJ detention facility, lawyer says Four detainees escape Newark immigration facility
– U.S. Marines detain civilian in Los Angeles —
– Reuters Military detentions begin at border “defense zone”
– CNN Brad Lander, NYC mayoral candidate, arrested by ICE at courthouse
– The New York Times Man arrested at “No Kings” protest had long-standing obsession with Nazi ideology Pipe bomb discovered in home of man arrested at PA “No Kings” protest
– CBS Philadelphia Migrant deported to El Salvador after wrongful gang label – per legal advocates
⚖️ Government, Courts, and the Constitution
House votes to defund NPR and PBS – NPR Federal judge blocks Trump executive order requiring citizenship proof to vote – CourtListener (via Bluesky)
Federal judge accuses Trump admin of discriminatory NIH grant cuts – POLITICO On Monday a federal judge ruled [47’s] cancellation of several hundred NIH research grants illegal & void.
CBO: Trump’s immigration and tax bill could add $3.3 trillion to the national debt – Washington Post
Senate Democrats enable [47’s] crypto windfall – Here are the Democrats who voted for it: Angela Alsobrooks (MD) Cory Booker (NJ) Catherine Cortez Masto (NV) John Fetterman (PA) Ruben Gallego (AZ) Kirsten Gillibrand (NY) Maggie Hassan (NH) Martin Heinrich (NM) John Hickenlooper (CO) Andy Kim (NJ) Ben Ray Luján (NM) Jon Ossoff (GA) Alex Padilla (CA) Jacky Rosen (NV) Adam Schiff (CA) Elissa Slotkin (MI) Mark Warner (VA) Raphael Warnock (GA)
Popular Information Trump approved Iran strike plans but delayed execution –
Wall Street Journal Trump not invited to NAACP convention—the first president in 116 years to be excluded NAACP says [47] isn’t welcome, breaking tradition: NPR This article explains the NAACP’s decision not to invite [47] to the 2025 convention and provides context.
[47 Regime] reverses exemption for farms and hotels from immigration raids – The Washington Post
🏳️⚧️ Civil Rights & Social Policy
SCOTUS upholds Tennessee ban on gender-affirming care for minors – Erin in the Morning
VA hospitals remove politics and marital status from patient protection guidelines – The Guardian
FEMA preparedness program cuts hit Trump-voting rural areas hardest
Over 250 million acres of public land now eligible for sale under SENR bill –
The Wilderness Society State Department reinstates student visa interviews with stricter social media checks
🧨 Violence, Extremism, and Public Safety
Two Minnesota lawmakers shot in their homes – AP News Minnesota suspect had notebook listing 70 potential targets –
The New York Times Authorities continue search for Vancehttps://apnews.com/article/pope-leo-chicago-baseball-stadium-catholic-mass-5fa10cc7084271e92c911b66de8cab51 Boelter in targeted lawmaker shootings – The Washington Post The TN Holler coverage on Bluesky Second-degree murder charges filed, first-degree pending grand jury – Kyle Cheney via Bluesky Police investigate break-in at home of slain MN Rep. Melissa Hortman
🎭 Culture, Media, and Power
Pope Leo throws ceremonial first pitch at Chicago ballgame –
The Washington Post Trump accidentally drops signed US-UK trade deal in public –
Independent TV SpaceX Starship explodes on test stand –
Dodgers clash with [47 Regime] over ICE presence at stadium – In summary: The Dodgers asserted they denied ICE entry to their stadium, while the Trump administration (ICE and DHS) denied being present for an operation related to the Dodgers. This incident sparked debate and protests regarding the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement efforts and the role of public venues in such matters. The Dodgers’ subsequent donation to support immigrant families reflected their awareness of the concerns of their fan base, many of whom are of Latino heritage and have been impacted by immigration policies.
“Kamala Harris won the U.S. election” – SMART Elections Substack – I know, I agree, I hear what you’re saying… but without presenting evidence we’re starting to sound like they did in 2020. So present the evidence & let’s see what the judge says.
Well, folks—that’s what we’ve got for this week.
Take a deep breath.
Make sure you’re taking care of yourselves: eat something halfway healthy each day, drink plenty of water, and give yourself some grace.
If you’re outside, stay in the shade—and try to avoid the heat during the hottest part of the day. It’s only getting hotter.
In Solidarity,
Cecelia💪🏼💙🦋
Post Script: We at Eastern Illinois Indivisible are working on organizing a Community Event, Good Trouble: Rural Rising on July 17th, in downtown Casey, Illinois, from 5pm – 7pm. More info to come soon!
This Week in Democracy: Links Ending 6/15/2025
The news they hope you miss. We don’t.
From ICE raids and court rulings to secret crypto deals and drag queen & No Kings protests, here’s what happened—and what it means.
🚨 ICE Raids, Migrant Crackdowns & State Sovereignty Under Attack
ICE detained immigrants during routine check-ins in Los Angeles, holding some in a federal basement overnight. This is happening in our name. CBS News Former Afghan soldier, granted asylum and promised safety by the U.S., was arrested by ICE in Texas. That promise? Broken. California’s National Guard was federalized by Trump, in defiance of the state. Governor Newsom says it’s a violation of sovereignty. Trump says he’d arrest Newsom if he were ICE head Tom Homan. [Politico] Five state lawmakers in CA & NY were denied access to migrant detention sites. Lawmakers. Denied. Access. NYT Trump’s Guantánamo expansion? Paused. But not cancelled. Eyes open. Politico
⚖️ Justice (and Injustice) in the Courts
Harvey Weinstein convicted again in his NY retrial. A rare accountability win. Reuters SCOTUS held the line—upholding DC’s high-capacity magazine ban and rejecting a Republican challenge to Pennsylvania election law. [Reuters] Rep. LaMonica McIver indicted after clashing with law enforcement at an ICE protest in New Jersey. The DOJ called California’s lawsuit against the National Guard order “a crass political stunt.” [Politico]
🕵️ Surveillance, Propaganda & Corporate Complicity
Airlines secretly sold your flight data to DHS. You read that right. They sold you out. [WIRED] [47] quietly sold off his stake in a shady crypto company. If it smells like a grift… Kyle Cheney on Bluesky Tesla is suing the City of Austin to keep robotaxi trial records under wraps. Transparency? Nah. [Reuters] The VA used a private AI tool to filter and review veteran service contracts—no public oversight. [ProPublica]
🇺🇸 Soldiers, Budgets, and Political Theater
Fort Bragg soldiers were investigated for cheering Trump in uniform. When the military is politicized, democracy bleeds. [Military.com] House Republicans passed a budget slashing clean energy, then begged the Senate to soften it.
You voted for it, folks.
New national poll: Trump’s job approval at 38%. His worst marks are on Ukraine and the budget. Quinnipiac Poll DHS reportedly briefed right-wing election-denier groups on voter citizenship checks. [Democracy Docket]
🌪️ Civil Institutions in Freefall
FEMA’s storm response chief resigned—part of an exodus of federal leadership under pressure. [CBS News] Naval Academy historian resigned after being ordered to remove a symposium paper. Welcome to censorship. Federal judge ruled the U.S. can’t hold Columbia protester Mahmoud Khalil—a major win for peaceful resistance.
Flash flooding kills 5 in West Virginia, rescue teams searching for missing people At least three people were killed & several others are missing due to flash floods on Saturday night
📚 Culture, Protest & Resistance
Shakira Says Immigrants in the U.S. Live in ‘Constant Fear’ Under Donald Trump’s Policies
· Shakira reflects on immigrant’ experiences in the U.S., contrasting them with the [47th regime’s] policies. She states that immigrants live in ‘constant fear’ due to these policies.
· Shakira supports humane treatment for all people despite changing immigration policies.
Greta Thunberg boarded the Gaza-bound Freedom Flotilla, which was intercepted by Israeli forces. [AP News] ABC News suspended Terry Moran for calling Stephen Miller a “world-class hater.” Honestly? He’s not wrong. Trump was booed at his first Kennedy Center appearance—by drag queens. Sometimes, protest is art. Terry Moran Substack
🤯 WTF of the Week
ICE is detaining immigrants in the basement of a federal building in Los Angeles—overnight.
Let that sink in: not a jail, not a detention center—a basement. In America. In 2025. This is how fascism creeps in: through administrative “exceptions” that become standard operating procedure.
🗣️ Quote of the Week
“You cannot out-organize authoritarianism unless you’re willing to name it—and confront it.”
— Olivia Julianna, activist, strategist, and Gen Z firebrand
🏛️ Congressmember of the Week
🧌 Villain: Rep. Mary Miller (IL-15)
While families in rural Illinois face real economic pain from tariffs and Medicaid cuts, Mary Miller continues to push culture war nonsense and openly praise authoritarian policies. From voting against veterans’ benefits to parroting Trumpist fear tactics, she’s not showing up for her district—she’s showing off for MAGA.
✅ Want her out? Support Jennifer Todd.
Locally, you can support Josh Collins & his bid for district #102 — neither Mary Miller nor Adam Neimerg bothered to show up to the Town Hall in Paris last Friday. The congresswoman was even nearby at a wedding & could easily have stopped in to speak with her constituents.
✅ Stay Informed. Get Involved. Show Up.
Subscribe. Share. Speak out. Show up. The most powerful tool you have is still your voice—and your vote.
— Cecelia🦋
Eastern IL Indivisible
YT: Blue.Wing.Things to Do in Case of COUP!
Let me know if I missed a link… if one fell through the cracks!
My Ma decided to drop in for a very short visit that through a bag of wrenches into my schedule & certainly messed with every part of my life, y’all & I do apologize. Not only is this late, it is lacking – all glory to The Daily Beans.
Multiple people set on fire in attack at Colorado march for Israeli hostages, suspect arrested, police say On Sunday afternoon, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, 45, attacked a group supporting Israeli hostages on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, Colorado. The attac followed a peaceful demonstration by Run For Their Lives amid heightened tensions from ongoing Israel-Hamas war & recent related attacks in the US.
Ukraine destroyed more than 40 military aircraft in a drone attack deep inside Russia, official says
Judge Orders Trump Officials to Seek Return of Guatemalan Man to U.S. – The New York Times
Exclusive | Judges Weigh Taking Control of Their Own Security Amid Threats – WSJ
Navy reverses course on DEI book ban after Pentagon review – ABC News
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy denounces U.S. silence after massive Russian drone-and-missile attacks
Monday
Texas bill requiring Ten Commandments in public schools moves closer to governor’s desk
Team Trump Investigating Why IRS Nominee’s X Account Followed Sexual Content
U.S. vets recoil at Trump plan to end Afghans’ deportation protection – The Washington Post
Tuesday
Trump pardons Virginia sheriff convicted of federal bribery charges – ABC News
Another Suspect Is Charged in Bitcoin Kidnapping and Torture Case – The New York Times
Within Pete Hegseth’s divided inner circle, a ‘cold war’ endures – The Washington Post
Trump administration moves to cut all remaining federal contracts with Harvard | Reuters
NPR and Colorado public radio stations sue Trump White House
Man Feared to Be Cognitively Slipping After Writing Book About Wrong President
Trump Pardoned Tax Cheat After Mother Attended $1 Million Dinner – The New York Times
RFK Jr. says CDC will no longer recommend COVID vaccine for children and pregnant women – CBS News
Sen. Tommy Tuberville launches run for governor of Alabama
Trump Media to raise $2.5 billion to invest in bitcoin | Reuters
Wednesday
Congressional Agency Rebuffs Trump Bid to Expand Power Grab – Democracy Docket
SpaceX Starship Loses Control on Test Flight 9 as Rocket Re-enters Earth – The New York Times
U-Haul bans Patriot Front members after trucks rented in KC for march
BLM official escorted out of building after DOGE conflict – POLITICO
Tate brothers face rape and trafficking charges in the UK
Nancy Mace’s Former Staff Claim She Had Them Create Burner Accounts to Promote Her | WIRED
Trump’s not happy about Wall Street’s name for tariff flip-flops – POLITICO
Judge temporarily blocks Trump administration action over congestion pricing – ABC News
Thursday
Paramount Has Offered $15 Million to Settle CBS Lawsuit. Trump Wants More. – WSJ
US says it will start revoking visas for Chinese students | Reuters
Trump’s Air Force One deal with Qatar not final despite U.S. claims – The Washington Post
Judge plans to block Trump administration from restricting foreign students at Harvard University – CBS NewsListen on:
Hi everyone — just a quick update on my daughter, Roegn. I know I haven’t shared much lately about what she’s been up to… mostly because, honestly, it’s been pretty uneventful. She’s been in a bit of a rut, not quite sure what direction she wanted to take — and that’s totally okay. She’s young, and figuring things out takes time.
But last night, she had one of those classic, country young-adult experiences… I have to take her to the ER now to get her checked out. Fairly certain she has a concussion, I’ll update y’all later.
She didn’t even realize it had happened.
She lost the shell off the back of Zeus — in the middle of a damn field. And if that isn’t the most Southeastern Illinois thing I’ve said all day, I’ll eat my boots.
Roegn came in this morning, covered in mud, proudly telling me she’d recovered the back of the truck and everything was fine. Then she looked me dead in the eye and said, “Remember you’re my mom… and that you love me.” (BAHAHA!)
I told her I was so damn proud I could hardly stand it.
I hugged her about ten times and made sure she knew how amazing it was that she handled it — ALL BY HERSELF.
‼️My daughter is amazing. ⬅️
Now onto the news.
Scientists have lost their jobs or grants in US cuts. Foreign universities want to hire them Thousands of scientists in the U.S. lost their jobs or grants due to cuts in federal funding for scientific research. Aix-Marseille University in France initiated the ‘Save Place for Science’ program to welcome U.S. -based scientists [refugees] at risk.
🏳️🌈Corporate Sponsors Like Pepsi, Nissan, Mastercard, and More Pull Back From NYC Pride Several major corporations including Pepsi, Nissan, Mastercard, & Citi are reducing or withdrawing sponsorship from NYC Pride events in 2025, particularly the Pride March scheduled for June 29 in New York City. The decline in corporate Pride sponsorship suggests that political pressures rather than consumer sentiment are driving companies to scale back involvement despite ongoing public support and growing influence of diverse consumer groups.
🦵🏼An ex-Harvard Medical School morgue manager admits his role in the theft of human remains Cedric Lodge, former manager of Harvard Medical School’s morgue, pleaded guilty to trafficking stolen human body parts. 👀
UN Chief Says Gaza War in ‘Cruelest Phase’ as Aid Trucks Looted UN Secretary-General Antonio Gutierrez said on May 23, 2025, that the Gaza war has reached its cruelest phase with aid trucks looted despite Israel easing its 11-week blockade. Only about 300 aid trucks have entered Gaza since the blockade was lifted, but insecurity & looting have prevented full delivery to needy populations.
Russia & Ukraine Complete Largest Prisoner Swap, Exchanging 303 Detainees
Several killed in Ukraine as Moscow launches the war’s largest air attack
👉🏻And remember y’all, it could be worse, we could be in Texas. [& if you’re in Texas — I’m so, so very sorry. I mean, unless you’re there on purpose.]
Links from the Week Ending 5_25_2025.pdf
DHS asks for 20,000 National Guard troops to assist in deportations : NPR
HHS backtracks on firing hundreds of federal health workers
Military commanders will be told to send transgender troops to medical checks to oust them
Trump administration working on plan to move 1 million Palestinians to Libya
DHS Is Considering Reality Show Where Immigrants Compete for Citizenship – WSJ
Moody’s downgrades U.S. credit as Congress considers bill that could add to deficits
Trump admin permits sale of device that allows standard firearms to fire like machine guns
Monday
Trump’s Syria announcement surprised his own sanctions officials | Reuters
Trump’s sanctions on ICC prosecutor have halted tribunal’s work | AP News
Romania’s pro-EU candidate beats hard-right rival to win presidential election | CNN
Trump’s clash with the courts raises prospect of showdown over separation of powers
Key Panel Approves Trump’s Megabill, but Conservatives Hold Out for More Cuts
Stocks close little changed after Moody’s downgrades US debt – ABC News
Judge bars Trump administration from shutting peace institute that sought to end violent conflicts
Tuesday
Exclusive: US aid cuts leave food for millions mouldering in storage | Reuters
Trump admin must seek return of wrongly deported man to El Salvador, appeals court rules – POLITICO
Republicans tweak megabill’s SNAP, Medicaid provisions – Live Updates – POLITICO
CBS News boss exits amid Trump pressure | CNN Business
US Senate confirms Trump nominee Kushner to be ambassador to France | Reuters
Wednesday
Sean Duffy Sold Stocks Days Before Trump Announced a Plan for Reciprocal Tariffs — ProPublica
CEO Says Trump’s IRS Pick Promised Big Benefits
Pentagon accepts luxury jet from Qatar to use as Air Force One – ABC News
Hundreds of rural hospitals are at risk of closing, threatening critical care – CBS News
Jim Irsay, Indianapolis Colts owner, dies at 65
Thursday
Trump says U.S. has chosen plan for ‘Golden Dome’ missile defense system – The Washington Post
Staffers quit over Kristi Noem’s 4-hour ‘fishing expedition’ polygraphs: report – Raw Story
Abandoning trans people ‘a mistake’ for Democrats, says Tim Walz | The Independent
Trump Claimed a Video Showed ‘Burial Sites’ of White Farmers. It Didn’t. – The New York Times
Inspector Let Recruits Who Failed Psychological Exam Join the N.Y.P.D. – The New York Times
Judge blocks Trump bid to dismantle Department of Education – POLITICO
White House purges transcripts of Trump’s remarks from its website
Trump gets win as judges refuse to hear Voice of America case – Raw StoryFederal judge blocks immigration authorities from revoking international students’ legal status | AP
Hope you are having a lovely Memorial Day Weekend! & may Laura Loomer choke on her own petard.
I’m so tired, y’all. This one could have been much more detailed, but I had events pop up over the weekend that I wasn’t expecting. Hope you were able to enjoy yourselves! It’s always a good idea to learn a new skill (canning vegetables, perhaps?) or volunteering your time places that may have a shortage of workers. 💪🏼🦋
Former President Joe Biden Diagnosed with “Agressive” Form of Prostate Cancer
FBI identifies Guy Edward Bartkus as suspect in Palm Springs fertility clinic bombing
Colombia seeks to join China-based development bank as Latin America drifts away from Washington
2 Sailors killed after Mexican Navy tall ship smashes into Brooklyn Bridge
[47] administration strikes deal to allow sales of rapid fire gun modification
McCarthy tears into Republicans over Trump budget bill delay: ‘A real misstep’
President Trump fires Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden | AP News
Democrats celebrate wins in Lincoln’s officially nonpartisan election
Judge Orders That Tufts Student Targeted by Trump Be Freed “Immediately”
And during the Ozturk hearing, the 2nd circuit denied ICE https://bsky.app/profile/rparloff.bsky.social/post/3loqujz2fmk2p
Exclusive: NSF faces radical shake-up as officials abolish its 37 divisions | Science
US will stop tracking the costs of extreme weather fueled by climate change – ABC News
Court: Alabama redistricting discriminates against Black voters : NPR
Radar screens at Newark airport went black again overnight – ABC News
Consumer safety panel Democrats vow to fight their firings by Trump : NPR
@marcelias.bsky.social on Bluesky
Does Trump Have the Power to Install Jeanine Pirro as Interim U.S. Attorney? – The New York Times
Judge pauses Trump’s effort to reduce the size of the federal government
Punk bands drown out anti-LGBTQ+ speakers on college campus – LGBTQ Nation
Judge dismisses ICE case against New Bedford man
Trump administration must halt some DOGE cuts at 20 federal agencies, judge rules – CBS News
Eugenics via tax incentives https://bsky.app/profile/muellershewrote.com/post/3lotmm4bi3c2j
$400M plane Trump administration will accept a luxury jet from Qatar to use as Air Force One
Fake pizza orders sent to judges seen as threat to judicial safety – The Washington Post
Monday
Trump is reportedly set to accept a jet from Qatar’s ruling family | AP News
White South African Afrikaner refugees arrive in U.S. on a government-chartered plane
Fight over Medicaid cuts heats up as House Republicans release bill
Trump administration halts research to help babies with heart defects
Cuomo Loses $622,000 Over Concerns of Improper Super PAC Coordination – The New York Times
Episcopal Church refuses to resettle white Afrikaners, citing moral opposition
States accuse Trump administration of holding emergency relief hostage over immigration policy
ICE detention facility served again with violations by N.J. city after mayor’s arrest
Hill leaders question Trump’s attempted Library of Congress takeover – Live Updates – POLITICO
Tuesday
Alina Habba Warned About Commenting on Ras Baraka Case
FBI ordered to prioritize immigration, as DOJ scales back white collar cases | Reuters
States accuse Trump administration of holding emergency relief hostage over immigration policy
Wednesday
Gov. Tim Walz’s son breaks silence on viral DNC moment – CBS News
Federal grand jury indicts Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan in immigration case – CBS News
Tiny Company With China Ties Announces Big Purchase of Trump Cryptocurrency – The New York Times
Illinois governor is first in US to block federal access to personal data on autism
12-year-old boy left alone on sidewalk after ICE raid in Massachusetts – CBS Boston
The Wild West of Presidential Pardons in Trump’s Second Term – WSJ
Gov. Tim Walz, other MN agencies weigh in on rumors Trump will pardon Derek Chauvin
Dems go after GOP online fundraising after Trump attacks ActBlue – POLITICO
RFK Jr. clashes with lawmakers over vaccines and HHS mass layoffs
Thursday
Trump wants a new plane. Now, so does Homeland Security Secretary Noem.
Pam Bondi Sold Trump Media Stock the Day Trump Announced Tariffs — ProPublica
DOGE Removes Dozens of Resurrected Contracts From Its List of Savings – The New York Times
Supreme Court justices appear divided in birthright citizenship arguments : NPR
Colorado Air Traffic Controllers Lost Contact With Some Airplanes Monday – The New York Times
Walmart Becomes Biggest Retailer Yet to Pass Through Tariff Price Increases
Fed chief Jerome Powell warns that U.S. could face “supply shocks” – CBS NewsListen on
List your top 5 favorite fruits.
-Questioner
Dear Questioner,
I love fruit. If I could, I might be a fruitarian, something I didn’t even know existed until I saw an episode of Modern Family. Alright so let’s do this — our top five fruits!
Be kind to one another, y’all & have a nice day.
Talk Soon,
Cecelia 💪🏼💙🦋
Hi friends,
Welcome to another edition of Political—Yes, I Said It! where I give you a quick (ha!) rundown of the week’s top stories. Of course, with so much happening these days, it’s really important to find a daily newsletter or podcast that keeps you informed without driving you crazy.
Personally, I recommend The Daily Beans and What A Day. Both offer weekday news roundups, safe and inclusive communities, and thoughtful commentary. Plus, The Daily Beans always ends with a little Good News and a call for Good Trouble—and who doesn’t need more of that?
I want to start by addressing a false report from the Krassensteins on BlueSky claiming that China pulled out of the trade talks in Geneva. In an age where we’re already battling waves of misinformation, we don’t need it coming from sources people consider trustworthy.
Always verify before you amplify.
Over the Weekend- sorry, y’all I was too busy to pay attention. Next week will be back to my regular edition.
This is the wrap up from The Daily Beans last week—
States could lose infrastructure funding over immigration, DEI: Transportation secretary
Hegseth had unsecured internet line in Pentagon for Signal, sources say | AP News
Why Did a Charity Tied to Casey DeSantis Suddenly Get a $10 Million Boost? – The New York Times
@joshgerstein.bsky.social on Bluesky
In a reversal, the Trump administration restores funding for women’s health study
Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan charged with 2 federal counts in ICE case
Virginia Giuffre, one of Jeffrey Epstein’s most prominent abuse survivors, dies by suicide
Trump DOJ rescinds Biden-era protections for news media
Trump says he’s made 200 tariff deals.
Video casts doubt on Ed Martin’s apology for praising Nazi sympathizer – The Washington Post
Caitlyn Jenner is now begging for money online after legal fallout from her memecoin – LGBTQ Nation
Trump has lowest 100-day approval rating in 80 years: POLL – ABC News
Hegseth’s Personal Phone Use Created Vulnerabilities – The New York Times
Pritzker Pritzker Thunders Against ‘Do Nothing’ Democrats as He Stokes 2028 Talk – The New York Times
Tariff tit-for-tat has Seattle waiting for the ships to come in | The Seattle Times
As his approval rating sinks, Trump wants investigations into pollsters
DOGE team gain accounts on classified systems with nuclear secrets : NPR
Lawyers for Deported U.S. Citizen Kids Say Moms Were ‘Coerced’ Into Taking Them
Bezos was gonna add import costs on Amazon but trump called him and Bezos caved
Trump complained to Bezos before Amazon said it scrapped idea to display tariff cost
‘We’re citizens!’: Oklahoma City family traumatized after ICE raids home, but they weren’t suspects
Corporation for Public Broadcasting sues Trump after attempted board firings – The Washington Post
Call logs show Holmberg, former AG communicated amid federal sex crime investigation
Strathmore to host World Pride event dropped by Kennedy Center – Bethesda Magazine
Judge frees Columbia student activist whom Trump administration wants to deport – POLITICO
Jennifer Hegseth holds unorthodox role shaping Pentagon affairs – The Washington Post
Exclusive | Tesla Board Opened Search for a CEO to Succeed Elon Musk – WSJ
Tesla chair denies report that EV maker seeks new CEO to replace Musk | Reuters
Trump to Oust National Security Adviser Mike Waltz – WSJ
Veterans facing foreclosures as Trump administration pulls plug on Biden program: report – Raw Story
RFK Jr. will order placebo testing for new vaccines, alarming health experts
Is the 47 Spell Finally Breaking? YouTube video from The Bulwark with Andrew Eggar, Sarah Longwell, & Lauren Egan discussing the Democratic response.
The Last Minute Sixty Minutes calling out its parent company CBS & the resignation of the “right man for the job.”
The I’ve Had It Podcast discussing Elon Musk & DOGE epic face-plant as well as our economy.
Adam Mockler went on a right wing debate show & it was interesting.
Here’s how the ports looked.
And that’s where we’re going to leave it, because if you just watched that last video, then you’re not too happy with me. Probably no videos for the next few days.
Talk Soon
Cecelia
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