Donald Trump and the Triumph of White Identity Politics
Eric Draitser | counterpunch.org | 2020-12-13
The renowned historiographer E.H. Carr famously compared the historian with his facts to the fishmonger with fish on the slab; the historian collects the facts, takes them home, and cooks and serves them in whatever style appeals to him. Naturally, the historian will add spices and other ingredients to draw out the precise flavor needed…
counterpunch.org/2020/12/13/donald-trump-and-the-triumph-of-white-identity-politics-2/
US Media, Pols Rage After Venezuelans Defy US Empire to Re-elect Socialists
Alan MacLeod | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
President Nicolas Maduro and his United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) are celebrating today, after a clear victory in yesterday's National Assembly elections. The elections, boycotted by many major right-wing opposition groups, but still participated in by over 100 …
globalresearch.ca/us-media-pols-rage-venezuelans-defy-us-empire-re-elect-socialists/5732055
US Supreme Court Backs "Grand Theft" Election 2020
Stephen Lendman | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
On Friday, the Supreme Court declined to hear arguments in what may be remembered one day as the most significant political dispute in US history. | Texas et al v. Pennsylvania et al was the judicial equivalent of Hollywood's Godzilla v. …
globalresearch.ca/us-supreme-court-backs-grand-theft-election-2020/5732065
The New Normal: One Step Closer to Dystopia. New Covid Outbreaks, People are "Living in Extreme Fear"
Timothy Alexander Guzman | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
On September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks took place on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon allegedly orchestrated by Al Qaeda led by Osama bin Laden, and subsequently blamed it on Saddam Hussein and the Baath Party and then …
globalresearch.ca/new-normal-one-step-closer-dystopia/5732057
Russia's Forgotten Nuclear Disaster
Joshua Frank | counterpunch.org | 2020-12-13
It was a warm fall day on September 29, 1957, not much unlike any other in the deep Russian interior. Residents in the Chelyabinsk oblast cared for their crops of wheat and potatoes, others herded cattle. Women hung out their family's clothes to dry as the winds picked up before the sun descended. In the…
counterpunch.org/2020/12/13/russias-forgotten-nuclear-accident/
Video: Rocco Galati on COVID Lockdown Measures. Crimes against Humanity. Lawsuit against Government of Canada
Rocco Galati | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
"Politicians have not put forward any persuasive evidence that lockdowns have actually saved lives. At the same time, there is no question that lockdowns have caused grave harm to millions of Canadians suffering unemployment, poverty, cancelled surgeries, suicides, isolation …
globalresearch.ca/video-rocco-galati-on-covid-lockdown-measures-crimes-against-humanity-lawsuit-against-government-of-canada/5732023
Protesters in London march against police atrocity against Black teenager
Peoples Dispatch | peoplesdispatch.org | 2020-12-13
On Friday, December 11, anti-racism groups in the UK protested police atrocity against a Black teenager in North London. Video footage which shows a police officer punching the teenager in the head while he was pressed against a police car, was widely circulated on social media on Thursday night and triggered widespread outrage across the UK. Scores of people under the leadership of Black Lives Matter Movement and Stand Up to Racism (SUTR) marched to North London's Tottenham police station and protested the police brutality and demanded punishment for the officers involved in the incident. | According to a Mornin…
peoplesdispatch.org/2020/12/13/protesters-in-london-march-against-police-atrocity-against-black-teenager/
Will Facebook have to give up WhatsApp and Instagram?
Newsclick | peoplesdispatch.org | 2020-12-13
Newsclick's Prabir Purkayastha analyzes the latest antitrust case against Facebook. He looks at the growing global consensus on action against the tech giants, and talks about the situation in the developing countries…
peoplesdispatch.org/2020/12/13/will-facebook-have-to-give-up-whatsapp-and-instagram-draft/
How to Wear a Face Mask and Still Show Dissent Against Tyranny
John C. A. Manley | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
I'm not fond of grocery shopping. Doubly so when our local "natural" food store operates like a cross between a 21st century bio-contamination laboratory and a 1940's Soviet food rationing depot. (It's called Gentle Rain, but Stalin's Reign would suit | …
globalresearch.ca/how-wear-face-mask-show-dissent-against-tyranny/5732083
Renters still left out in the cold despite temporary coronavirus protection
Real Progressives | realprogressives.org | 2020-12-13
Kirk McClure, University of Kansas and Alex Schwartz, The New School | Emergency relief for renters across America may protect them from the threat of eviction during the coronavirus crisis — but it won't last for long. | The economic shutdown necessitated by COVID-19 has undermined the ability of millions…
realprogressives.org/renters-left-out-in-cold/
48% Of U.S. Small Businesses Fear that They May be Forced to "Shut Down Permanently" Soon
Michael Snyder | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
What would the United States look like if we lost half of our small businesses? The reason I ask that question is because approximately half of all small business owners in the entire country believe that they may soon be …
globalresearch.ca/48-us-small-businesses-fear-forced-shut-down-permanently-soon/5732050
From TMAP to Warp Speed: How Big Pharma Algorithms Fast-Track Unapproved Drugs and Vaccines
John Klyczek | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
Five of the pharmaceutical companies developing COVID-19 vaccines through the USA's Operation Warp Speed have paid out "billions" (over the years) to settle lawsuits charging them with fraud related to "off-label" marketing of atypical antipsychotics and antidepressants that were mandated …
globalresearch.ca/tmap-warp-speed-big-pharma-algorithms-fast-track-unapproved-drugs-vaccines/5732060
COVID-19: A Fabricated Second "Tidal Wave" of Poverty and Injustice
David Skripac | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
Here we are at the end of a year filled with upheaval, facing yet another round of lockdowns, this time ostensibly intended to fight off a supposed "second wave of COVID-19." | In the foreground, we have the completely co-opted mainstream …
globalresearch.ca/covid-19-fabricated-second-wave-crimes-against-humanity/5732054
"Corona Procurements": Tory Corruption Is Eroding UK Democracy
Megan Sherman | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
The UK's governing Tory party is dishonestly flouting the rules of free and fair competition for Coronavirus related procurements, by unfairly selecting commissions, awarding contracts to class allies instead of the best or cheapest service provider. | The party frequently uses …
globalresearch.ca/tory-corruption-eroding-uk-democracy/5732076
Philippines: Labor movement demands release of Human Rights Day 7
Fight Back | fightbacknews.org | 2020-12-13
Fight Back News Service is circulating this December 11 joint statement from the Council of Global Unions Philippine affiliates. | PH affiliates of global unions demand release of HRD7, stop arrests of PH unionists | We strongly deplore the simultaneous raids of residences and the consecutive arrests of trade union organizers, Dennise Velasco of Defend Jobs Philippines, Romina Astudillo, Deputy Secretary-General of Kilusang Mayo Uno-Metro Manila, Mark Ryan Cruz, Regional Executive Committee of KMU-Metro Manila, Jaymie Gregorio Jr. of KMU-Metro Manila, Joel Demate of Solidarity of Labor Rights and Welfare (SOLAR)…
www.fightbacknews.org/2020/12/12/philippines-labor-movement-demands-release-human-rights-day-7
Araghchi meets with Afghan FM to discuss bilateral ties
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for the Political Affairs Seyyed Abbas Araghchi met with Afghanistan Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed Haneef Atmar in Kabul on Sunday.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167126/Araghchi-meets-with-Afghan-FM-to-discuss-bilateral-ties
'Khatemeh' wins award at Herat Intl. Women's Film Festival
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — Iranian documentary 'Khatemeh' has won Earrings Statue for Best International Feature Documentary Film at the 6th edition of the Herat International Women's Film Festival in Afghanistan.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167096/Khatemeh-wins-award-at-Herat-Intl-Women-s-Film-Festival
Boosting bilateral trade, main goal of Iran-EU Business Forum
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — Adviser to the Trade Promotion Organization of Iran (TPOI) for Trade Contracts and Intl. Affairs said that increasing trade and economic interactions is the main objective behind organizing Iran-EU Business Forum.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167100/Boosting-bilateral-trade-main-goal-of-Iran-EU-Business-Forum
Message of Chiledoc's head to Iranian Cinema Verite
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — Head of Chile Documentary Film Center (Chiledoc) Diego Pino Anguita sent a message to the 14th Iran International Documentary Film Festival known as "Cinema Verite" which is slated to be held online on 15-22 December.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167111/Message-of-Chiledoc-s-head-to-Iranian-Cinema-Verite
'We Need To Get Off The Current Road To Hell'
_____ | popularresistance.org | 2020-12-13
A group of four former United Nations climate chiefs say it's "unthinkable" for the world to continue its business-as-usual approach to climate action, warning that without ramped-up ambition, humanity is headed down a "road to hell." | The assessment is laid out in an article published on Thursday in the peer-reviewed journal Climate Policy. | "Drawing on hardening IPCC science and building on the foundations of the 1992 Convention, the last 30 years of international cooperation have established a clear understanding of the need to prevent dangerous climate change…
popularresistance.org/we-need-to-get-off-the-current-road-to-hell/
Labour says Boris Johnson is 'playing Russian roulette' with people's livelihoods over Brexit
The Canary | thecanary.co | 2020-12-13
Boris Johnson is playing Russian roulette with people's jobs and livelihoods by threatening a no-deal Brexit, a Labour minister has said. | Disaster looming: | Shadow business secretary Ed Miliband warned that leaving the EU without a free trade agreement would be "a disastrous outcome". And he accused the prime minister of being "cavalier" with the country's national interests. | Labour's communities secretary Steve Reed said the British people "cannot tolerate" a no-deal outcome. He urged Johnson to "get Brexit done" as the trade talks deadline loomed. | It came as Miliband confirmed that his party woul…
thecanary.co/uk/news/2020/12/13/labour-says-boris-johnson-is-playing-russian-roulette-with-peoples-livelihoods-over-brexit/
Dozens arrested in Paris protest against new security law
The Canary | thecanary.co | 2020-12-13
Police in Paris have arrested dozens of people during a tense demonstration against a proposed security law.Arrests: Officers targeted protesters who they suspected might gather in violent groups, like those who vandalised shops and vehicles at previous demonstrations. The interior minister said 81 people had been arrested on Saturday 12 December.The proposed new law has sparked successive weekends of protests (Lewis Joly/AP)Riot police escorted the march through the streets of the French capital.The proposed security law has been met by successive weekends of protests. The most contested measure in the ne…
thecanary.co/global/world-news/2020/12/13/dozens-arrested-in-paris-protest-against-new-security-law/
To the Barricades: The Red House and the Future of Eviction Defense
David Rovics | zcomm.org | 2020-12-13
Since the police raid, what was limited to one house is now a neighborhood-wide conflict…
zcomm.org/znetarticle/to-the-barricades-the-red-house-and-the-future-of-eviction-defense/
Leading Scientist Says Hunger Is a Deliberate Choice by Those in Power
Ricardo Salvador | zcomm.org | 2020-12-13
"It's important to remember that hunger does not always happen because of natural disasters. It is often the result of things that we do to each other deliberately."
zcomm.org/znetarticle/leading-scientist-says-hunger-is-a-deliberate-choice-by-those-in-power/
A short film made by a community is getting international recognition
Steve Topple | thecanary.co | 2020-12-13
A short film about a community project in south London during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has gone global. It's already picked up an award at an international film festival. And the film is being screened at several others.Surviving in Lewisham: Feeding Lewisham — Foodbanks In Crisis is a short film that centres around the work of a grassroots group. The group is called We Care Food Bank — Corona Community Support Network. It works out of Deptford, sou…
thecanary.co/feature/2020/12/13/a-short-film-made-by-a-community-is-getting-international-recognition/
"There is no vaccine to save the planet"
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres | indybay.org | 2020-12-13
In the Arctic, 2020 has seen exceptional warmth, with temperatures more than 3 degrees Celsius above average – and more than 5 degrees in northern Siberia. Arctic sea ice in October was the lowest on record – and now re-freezing has been the slowest on record. Greenland ice has continued its long-term decline, losing an average of 278 gigatons a year.
indybay.org/newsitems/2020/12/12/18838913.php
Brexit an 'unforgivable act of economic sabotage to Scotland' as no-deal looms
The Canary | thecanary.co | 2020-12-13
Brexit has been described as an "unforgivable act of economic sabotage" as the prospect of leaving the EU without a deal looms. | Scotland's constitution secretary Mike Russell urged prime minister Boris Johnson to ensure a no-deal Brexit is "taken off the table" during crunch talks on Sunday 13 December. But Russell described even leaving with a deal as "massively damaging". | In recent days, the prime minister has hinted numerous times at the prospect of a no-deal. He's said it's "very, very likely" and asked people to prepare for an "Australia-style solution". | A negative effect on jobs and the economy
thecanary.co/uk/news/2020/12/13/brexit-an-unforgivable-act-of-economic-sabotage-to-scotland-as-no-deal-looms/
Let Everybody Vote, Even If They're Incarcerated
Patrick Stephens | zcomm.org | 2020-12-13
What value is a democracy that actively seeks to silence the voices of its most vulnerable citizens?
zcomm.org/znetarticle/let-everybody-vote-even-if-theyre-incarcerated/
Chicago Teachers Union car caravan presses mayor to bargain enforceable safety standards
Fight Back | fightbacknews.org | 2020-12-13
Chicago, IL — More than 100 teachers, parents and community members participated in a car caravan, December 12 for safety, equality and trust. Chicago Public Schools has rejected the union's safety concerns at every turn, refused to bargain to consensus on safety needs, rejected improving its inhumane remote learning program despite months of pleas from parents, students and educators, and fallen woefully short on safety promises they've made. | The caravan traveled to city hall, where caravan members delivered pointed criticisms of CPS' dangerous plan to accommodate the mayor's insistence on reopening unsa…
www.fightbacknews.org/2020/12/12/chicago-teachers-union-car-caravan-presses-mayor-bargain-enforceable-safety-standards
A Roadmap for the Biden-Harris Administration: Redesigning Farm Systems for the Climate Crisis
Ben Lilliston | commondreams.org | 2020-12-13
A just transition for farming must not only consider reforms to farm policy, but also aligned reforms in financial, trade, environmental, and competition policy. | www.flickr.com/photos/suziesfarm/11438035863…
commondreams.org/views/2020/12/13/roadmap-biden-harris-administration-redesigning-farm-systems-climate-crisis?cd-origin=rss
British Medical Journal (BMJ): Conflicts of Interest Among the UK Government's COVID-19 Advisers
Paul D Thacker | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
Little is known about the interests of the doctors, scientists, and academics on whose advice the UK government relies to manage the pandemic. Attempts to discover more are frequently thwarted, finds Paul D Thacker | *** | As the number of UK …
globalresearch.ca/conflicts-interest-among-uk-governments-covid-19-advisers/5732049
4 civilians killed in bomb blast in Afghanistan
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — As local sources reported, four civilians have been killed in Afghanistan's Nangarhar.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167122/4-civilians-killed-in-bomb-blast-in-Afghanistan
How The Pandemic Revealed Cracks In Global Supply Chains
_____ | popularresistance.org | 2020-12-13
At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans were shocked at the sight of empty shelves in stores as global supply chains sputtered to keep up with the demand for a variety of products. | But even the end of the pandemic is unlikely to solve many of the issues with global supply chains, said Benjamin McKean, associate professor of political science at The Ohio State University. | "The fragility of these supply chains has suddenly become evident to a lot of Americans who expect them to always operate seamlessly," McKean said. | "Of course, they usually do operate seamlessly, but at a cost that many people…
popularresistance.org/how-the-pandemic-revealed-cracks-in-global-supply-chains/
The Handmaid's Tale: making a drama out of a crisis
news.un.org | 2020-12-13
The Handmaid's Tale, a critically acclaimed television series which has won 38 Emmy awards, may be about a fictional "alternative reality", but the show's creators have gone to great lengths to ensure that references to themes such as climate change, human rights abuses, and refugees, are as real and accurate as possible, by collaborating closely with UN experts.
news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2020/12/1079082
Bankrolling blu klux klans?
Raymond Nat Turner | dissidentvoice.org | 2020-12-13
Rhythms of red, white, blue 'party' lights flashing beneath screaming sirens; The rush of warm crimson drawing 2, 4, 6, 8, 10–and then some… Robotic legs, arms–possessed– punching, kicking a fetal fraction– prone red shirt; black face; fractured eye socket, exploding eyeball; broken ribs drowning in swarming blue savagery: The viral video sparks flashbacks to …
dissidentvoice.org/2020/12/bankrolling-blu-klux-klans/
Why agriculture shouldn't be left to free market
Prabhat Patnaik | peoplesdispatch.org | 2020-12-13
The prices as well as the quantities of the agricultural produce in a free market would be far from socially optimal and are likely to be socially disastrous…
peoplesdispatch.org/2020/12/13/why-agriculture-shouldnt-be-left-to-free-market/
Let Everybody Vote, Even If They're Incarcerated
Patrick Stephens | commondreams.org | 2020-12-13
What value is a democracy that actively seeks to silence the voices of its most vulnerable citizens? | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/prison_5_0.jpg …
commondreams.org/views/2020/12/13/let-everybody-vote-even-if-theyre-incarcerated?cd-origin=rss
Police drop probe into Tory MP accused of rape who's been conducting parliamentary duties from home
The Canary | thecanary.co | 2020-12-13
Police have reportedly dropped their investigation into a Conservative MP and ex-minister who was arrested after a woman accused him of rape, sexual assault and coercive control. rape | The Metropolitan Police had said they received allegations on 31 July of sexual offences and assault. The allegations related to four separate incidents at addresses in London, including in Westminster, between July 2019 and January 2020. | Police arrested the Conservative MP on 1 August on suspicion of rape and took him into custody at an east London police station. They later released him on bail, the force added. | But the Sund…
thecanary.co/uk/news/2020/12/13/police-drop-probe-into-tory-mp-accused-of-rape-whos-been-conducting-parliamentary-duties-from-home/
Perfecting Tyranny: Mumia's New Book Hot Off the Press!
Prison Radio | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
Perfecting Tyranny by Mumia Abu-Jamal & Stephen Vittoria is a window into the soul of a nation from one of its most respected and feared captives. Getting this book to print took enormous resolve. We now turn to you to …
globalresearch.ca/perfecting-tyranny-mumia-new-book/5732062
Important Addition to Edsall Column on the Politics of Resentment: Downward Mobility Was by Design
Dean Baker | cepr.net | 2020-12-13
Thomas Edsall had an interesting piece last week on the politics of resentment. The gist of that a large portion of non-college educated whites are voting based on their fear of losing their social status. While there is undoubtedly much truth to Edsall's argument, there is an important point that Edsall leaves out. He tells …
cepr.net/important-addition-to-edsall-column-on-the-politics-of-resentment-downward-mobility-was-by-design/
Jeremy Corbyn announces a new, global project for peace and justice
Steve Topple | thecanary.co | 2020-12-13
The wait is over. The announcement Jeremy Corbyn was due to make on Sunday 13 December at 2: 30pm has been revealed. He's launching a new, global initiative. And you can get involved too. | The 'Corbyn Project': | The Project for Peace and Justice officially went live on Sunday 13 December. It says its mission statement is: To bring people together for social and economic justice, peace, and human rights, in Britain and across the world. | The Peace and Justice Project will back campaigns, commission reports and develop…
thecanary.co/trending/2020/12/13/jeremy-corbyn-announces-a-new-global-project-for-peace-and-justice/
Hospital bosses warn Boris Johnson that relaxing restrictions could 'trigger third wave'
The Canary | thecanary.co | 2020-12-13
NHS bosses have warned the prime minister that relaxing restrictions could trigger a third wave of coronavirus (Covid-19) at the busiest time of year for hospitals.In a letter to Boris Johnson, NHS Providers urged "extreme caution" in moving any area of England to a lower tier, according to reports by the BBC.The first review of England's tier allocation is due take place on Wednesday 16 December. This would be two weeks after the three-tier system was brought in after the end of lockdown.(PA Graphics)"The NHS simply won't be able to cope": But areas should be moved into the highest tier of restrictions "a…
thecanary.co/discovery/news-discovery/2020/12/13/hospital-bosses-warn-boris-johnson-that-relaxing-restrictions-could-trigger-third-wave/
Chabahar, a city for all seasons
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — Located in the southeast of Iran, Chabahar is one of the few areas of the country that is full of inimitable and unique natural and historical attractions.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167082/Chabahar-a-city-for-all-seasons
Failing Students Need Support, Not Blame
Jill Richardson | commondreams.org | 2020-12-13
Students don't fail because they are lazy. They fail because something is wrong in their lives—and right now, so much is wrong. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/schools_students_0.jpg …
commondreams.org/views/2020/12/13/failing-students-need-support-not-blame?cd-origin=rss
Armenia, Azerbaijan accuse each other of ceasefire violation
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — The Armenian Foreign Ministry condemned the violation of the ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh, calling it contrary to the ceasefire agreement and against the presence of Russian peacekeepers.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167120/Armenia-Azerbaijan-accuse-each-other-of-ceasefire-violation
Armed group abducts nearly 400 male students in Nigeria
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-13
TEHRAN, Dec. 13 (MNA) — An armed group has abducted nearly 400 male students at a boarding school in northern Nigeria, local media outlets reported on Saturday.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167124/Armed-group-abducts-nearly-400-male-students-in-Nigeria
Coles workers take to the streets to save their jobs
Pip Hinman | greenleft.org.au | 2020-12-13
Several hundred Coles workers and supporters marched through Sydney's streets, calling on the public to boycott Coles this Christmas. Jim McIlroy reports.
greenleft.org.au/content/coles-workers-take-streets-save-their-jobs
With Gigs Canceled and No Relief, Musicians Form a Nationwide Union
Liz Pelly | zcomm.org | 2020-12-13
UMAW differentiates itself from similar unions through its vast scope, seeking systemic shifts industry-wide, inclusive of various genres and practices…
zcomm.org/znetarticle/with-gigs-canceled-and-no-relief-musicians-form-a-nationwide-union/
The COVID-19 RT-PCR Test: How to Mislead All Humanity. Using a "Test" To Lock Down Society
Dr. Pascal Sacré | globalresearch.ca | 2020-12-13
The misuse of the RT-PCR technique is used as an intentional strategy by some governments, supported by scientific safety councils and by the dominant media, to justify the violation of a large number of constitutional rights, the destruction of the economy with the bankruptcy of entire active sectors of society,…
globalresearch.ca/covid-19-rt-pcr-how-to-mislead-all-humanity-using-a-test-to-lock-down-society/5728483
10 Syrian Druze residents of Golan Heights injured in protest against wind turbines
Peoples Dispatch | peoplesdispatch.org | 2020-12-13
Syrian Druze residents of the occupied Golan Heights are opposing Israeli plans to build a wind turbine to supply power to nearby illegal settlements. The Golan Heights has been under occupation since 1981…
peoplesdispatch.org/2020/12/13/10-syrian-druze-residents-of-golan-heights-injured-in-protest-against-wind-turbines/
AZ educators organize sickout amid highest rate of COVID-19
Fight Back | fightbacknews.org | 2020-12-13
Tucson, AZ – When the Chandler Unified School District governing board decided to stay with in-person instruction as Arizona continues to experience another spike in COVID-19 cases and deaths, some educators organized their resistance in the form of a sickout. Over 100 educators in CUSD called in sick on Friday, December 11 to express their opposition to the negligent board. The local union, Chandler Education Association (CEA) had issued a number of demands that include: educator representation on the district COVID committee, use of the more stringent county health metrics, and creating a COVID Task Force of ed…
www.fightbacknews.org/2020/12/13/az-educators-organize-sickout-amid-highest-rate-covid-19
Canada's military seeks to cover its tracks following damning report on Australian war crimes in Afghanistan
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
In response to the release of a report exposing Australian military atrocities in Afghanistan, the Canadian Armed Forces has doubled down on its long-running efforts to cover up its own war crimes in the region.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/caaf-d12.html
El Salvador: 1981 El Mozote Massacre Survivors Pursue Justice
teleSUR, ce | telesurenglish.net | 2020-12-12
The survivors of the El Mozote massacre, carried out by the US-backed Salvadoran Army in 1981, commemorated the 39th anniversary this Saturday. They hope to see the criminal process go to trial in 2021, and to finally see a conviction against those linked to the horrific crime. | RELATED: | United Nations Warns Over Forced Displacement in Central America | The criminal case against more than a dozen military commanders, including some members of the military leadership of the…
telesurenglish.net/news/el-salvador-1981-el-mozote-massacre-survivors-pursue-justice-20201212-0004.html
Israel-Morocco deal: Palestinians and Sahrawis hope for renewed solidarity
Alex MacDonald | middleeasteye.net | 2020-12-12
Israel-Morocco deal: Palestinians and Sahrawis hope for renewed solidarity | Activists have long linked the two people's struggles, and hope the latest normalisation deal will encourage the Palestinian leadership to do the same | Alex MacDonald | Sat, 12/12/2020 – 10: 26 | Supporters of the Polisario Front separatist movement hold a banner reading "All for Palestine, all for Western Sahara" during a demonstratio…
www.middleeasteye.net/news/israel-morocco-deal-palestine-western-sahara-solidarity
After reports of fresh fighting, Russian peacekeepers tell Armenia & Azerbaijan to observe agreed truce in Nagorno-Karabakh
rt.com | 2020-12-12
The Russian peacekeeping mission in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region has demanded that Baku and Yerevan stick to the November ceasefire agreement as Armenia and Azerbaijan blamed each other for weekend truce violations. | A shooting incident has been reported on the line of contact in the southern part of the contested territory, a spokesman from the Russian deployment told Moscow media. | "We immediately demanded through emergency channels the sides stick to the complete ceasefire," he said. Earlier on Saturday, Armenia's Defense Ministry accused Baku of resuming an offensive Nagorno-Karabakh targeting t…
rt.com/russia/509511-nagorno-karabakh-truce-violation-peacekeepers/
Workers Struggles: Asia and Australia
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
The World Socialist Web Site invites workers and other readers to contribute to this regular feature.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/labo-d12.html
90 members of Taliban killed in Afghan's Kandahar prov
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-12
TEHRAN, Dec. 12 (MNA) — Afghanistan Ministry of Defense in a statement on Saturday announced that 90 members of Taliban were killed in the past 24 hours in Kandahar province.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167086/90-members-of-Taliban-killed-in-Afghan-s-Kandahar-prov
Amazon Web Services offers companies new tools for spying on workers
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
New services from AWS allow companies to add specially trained computer vision technology to existing camera systems to spot "unusual" activity.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/awsm-d12.html
Marxism vs the state
Eds. | mronline.org | 2020-12-12
Karl Marx developed his theory of revolution by arguing against would-be progressives who looked to the capitalist state as a force for progress.
mronline.org/2020/12/12/marxism-vs-the-state/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=marxism-vs-the-state
America Is Contributing to Iran's Shocking Covid-19 Death Toll
Editor | scheerpost.com | 2020-12-12
Farhad Babaei/ Magnus News] By Juan Cole / Informed Comment The US financial and trade blockade of Iran, which has strangled its economy, has also taken a heavy toll on the country's coronavirus response. Nick Paton Walsh, Jo Shelley, Ramin Mostaghim and Scott McWhinnie at CNN did a great story on this heartrending travesty. They write, "Retired teacher Khalif Farahani struggles to speak… | Source…
scheerpost.com/2020/12/12/america-is-contributing-to-irans-shocking-covid-19-death-toll/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=america-is-contributing-to-irans-shocking-covid-19-death-toll
Foreign Minister Arreaza To US 'Ambassador'
_____ | popularresistance.org | 2020-12-12
Venezuela scoffed at the presentation of credentials by the person in charge of the US "virtual embassy" in Colombia, pointing out that his office in Caracas awaits him. | James Story, assigned as the supposed US ambassador to Venezuela, delivered his credentials to the fugitive Venezuelan opposition politician Julio Borges, "envoy" of the self-proclaimed president of Venezuela, coup leader Juan Guaidó, on Monday in Bogotá, the Colombian capital, reflecting the White House's commitment to the opposition and to regime change in Venezuela.
popularresistance.org/foreign-minister-arreaza-to-us-ambassador-your-office-in-caracas-awaits-you/
[World Report] Humanitarian access deal for Tigray
Sharmila Devi | thelancet.com | 2020-12-12
Humanitarian groups will be allowed into Tigray, Ethiopia, where conflict has displaced thousands and strained health services. Sharmila Devi reports.
thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32669-6/fulltext?rss=yes
The planning and politics of conversion: World War II lessons for a Green New Deal–Part 1
Martin Hart-Landsberg | mronline.org | 2020-12-12
This post highlights the successful government directed wartime reorientation of the U.S. economy from civilian to military production, an achievement that both demonstrates the feasibility of a rapid Green New Deal transformation of the U.S. economy and points to the kinds of organizational capacities we will need to develop.
mronline.org/2020/12/12/the-planning-and-politics-of-conversion-world-war-ii-lessons-for-a-green-new-deal-part-1/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-planning-and-politics-of-conversion-world-war-ii-lessons-for-a-green-new-deal-part-1
Croatian government and EU intensify violence against refugees
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
Croatia's border with Bosnia and Herzegovina has for years been notorious for violence against migrants and asylum seekers as part of the EU's "Fortress Europe" policy.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/croa-d12.html
Johnson and Macron governments step up collaboration in persecution of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
These extremely vulnerable people are fleeing from the wars, fratricidal conflicts, and economic and ecological destruction created and exacerbated by the world's imperialist powers, foremost in Europe by Britain and France.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/ukre-d12.html
Amin: A worker far from home
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
Amin is a subdued, thoughtful look at the condition of migrant workers who break their backs in the metropolitan countries to feed their families in their native lands.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/amin-d12.html
Honduran Refugee Caravan Denied at Guatemala Border
teleSUR, ce | telesurenglish.net | 2020-12-12
The caravan of Honduran refugees which left the city of San Pedro Sula on Thursday, headed for the United States, has been prevented from crossing into Guatemala. | RELATED: | New Caravan of Honduran Migrants Sets off To the United States | The migrant refugees were detained by Honduran riot police and told they were required to have a negative Covid-19 test and a passport to enter Guatemala. | Officials of the migration institute indicated that they would not allow the passage…
telesurenglish.net/news/honduran-migrant-caravan-fails-to-enter-guatemala-20201212-0001.html
Supreme Court rejects Texas lawsuit seeking to overturn US presidential election
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
The court ruled that Texas had no standing to object to the election procedures in another state.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/elec-d12.html
Go Vote Yourself a Raise, Georgia—You've Long Earned It
Ralph Nader | commondreams.org | 2020-12-12
Candidates should be pushed to say if they stand with the super-rich profiteering, callous Big Business tycoons or with the people who work for pitiful wages, on the rugged frontlines, and keep our society running. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/georgia_primary.jpg …
commondreams.org/views/2020/12/12/go-vote-yourself-raise-georgia-youve-long-earned-it?cd-origin=rss
Now In Print And Available: 'Capitalism On A Ventilator'
_____ | popularresistance.org | 2020-12-12
"Capitalism on a Ventilator: The Impact of COVID-19 in China & the U.S." is a new anthology contrasting the effective Chinese response to COVID-19 with the disastrous response here in the U.S. It pushes back against the racist anti-China campaign in the media. | Due to the growing hostility of the U.S. establishment toward China, and the accompanying surge in anti-Asian racism, it was an enormous challenge to find printers and distributors for this book. | The chapters include articles by many published authors, including: Ajamu Baraka, Monica Moorehead, Mumia Abu-Jamal…
popularresistance.org/now-in-print-and-available-capitalism-on-a-ventilator/
[Correspondence] Association of SARS-CoV-2 renal tropism with acute kidney injury — Authors' reply
Fabian Braun, Carolin Edler, Victor G Puelles, Tobias B Huber | thelancet.com | 2020-12-12
We thank Kay Choy for the nterest in our Correspondence,1 in which we described an association between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) renal tropism and acute kidney injury in autopsy cases with COVID-19 diagnosis.
thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32586-1/fulltext?rss=yes
Tuesday 12/15: Community Training: How to Request Release For Medically Vulnerable People in ICE Custody
United We Dream | indybay.org | 2020-12-12
Webinar online…
indybay.org/newsitems/2020/12/10/18838900.php
Iranian Parliamentary Members condemn Erdogan's remarks
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-12
TEHRAN, Dec. 12 (MNA) — Iranian Parliamentary Members condemned the Turkish President's remarks on Iran in a statement on Saturday.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167078/Iranian-Parliamentary-Members-condemn-Erdogan-s-remarks
Warehouse Workers on the Front Lines of the Covid Crisis Are Worried They'll Be Passed Over for the Vaccine
Kari Lydersen | commondreams.org | 2020-12-12
Low-wage warehouse workers, many of whom are temporary, are demanding access to the vaccine. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/views-article/thumbs/warehousepiece_01c8ac7cc3b849e525e370bc513441201.jpg …
commondreams.org/views/2020/12/12/warehouse-workers-front-lines-covid-crisis-are-worried-theyll-be-passed-over?cd-origin=rss
[Correspondence] One Health or Planetary Health for pandemic prevention? — Authors' reply
John H Amuasi, Andrea S Winkler | thelancet.com | 2020-12-12
One Health recognises the fundamental interconnectedness and complex interdependence of all living species and their shared environment.1 Thus, a view that One Health is focused on human–animal interaction alone, primarily addresses the risk of zoonotic events, and that these events occur as a result of urbanisation, land usage, and increasing human population density, therefore suggesting that One Health is sufficient to address pandemic risks, is flawed. Nevertheless, there is abundant evidence that disease agents of zoonotic origin account for over half of all emerging or re-emerging human infectious dis…
thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32392-8/fulltext?rss=yes
The Heat: China Economic Strategy
Sean Callebs | america.cgtn.com | 2020-12-12
Policy, pandemic and politics are on the agenda as Chinese leaders get set to meet to chart the way forward.
america.cgtn.com/2020/12/12/the-heat-china-economic-strategy
John Kerry's Think Tank Calls For War With Russia Over Climate Change
_____ | popularresistance.org | 2020-12-12
Recently-appointed Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry has announced his intention of dealing with the pressing issue of global warming as a national security concern. "America will soon have a government that treats the climate crisis as the urgent national security threat it is," the 76-year-old former Secretary of State wrote. "I am proud to partner with the President-elect, our allies, and the young leaders of the climate movement to take on this crisis." | The announcement drew praise from many professional climate activists and groups, perhaps assuming that Kerry was taking his lead from Berni…
popularresistance.org/john-kerrys-think-tank-calls-for-war-with-russia-over-climate-change/
Happiest Hanukkah from this crispy latke, egg and cheese sandwich
Rebecca Firkser | salon.com | 2020-12-12
"Potato pancake inside of the egg sandwich?" It's delicious…
salon.com/2020/12/12/happiest-hanukkah-from-this-crispy-latke-egg-and-cheese-sandwich_partner/
Hospital capacity in the US severely strained as coronavirus infections continue to surge
wsws.org | 2020-12-12
A recent report by the US Department of Health and Human Services showed that as many as 200 hospitals had reached full capacity last week. One-third of all hospitals reported their ICU occupancy was above 90 percent.
www.wsws.org/en/articles/2020/12/12/covi-d12.html
Saturday 12/12: SC1.5NCE Not SILENCE: Five-year Anniversary of Paris Agreement Climate Emergency Forum
March for Science | indybay.org | 2020-12-12
Online via livestream or Zoom…
indybay.org/newsitems/2020/12/11/18838906.php
[Clinical Picture] Occult fracture in teenager's tibia revealed by MRI
Zeng Li, Bin Feng, Xisheng Weng | thelancet.com | 2020-12-12
A 13-year-old girl presented with a 2-week history of mild pain in her right knee. She reported no recent injury. x-rays showed a high-density linear abnormality with a periosteal reaction in the proximal right tibia (figure), which medical staff, at the hospital where she was first seen, thought might have been a tumour of the bone.
thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32516-2/fulltext?rss=yes
Pres. Rouhani to hold press conference on Dec. 14
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-12
TEHRAN, Dec. 12 (MNA) — An official with Iranian President's Office said that President Hassan Rouhani will hold a press conference on Monday, Dec. 14.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167076/Pres-Rouhani-to-hold-press-conference-on-Dec-14
LIVE: Climate Ambition Summit
news.un.org | 2020-12-12
Live coverage of the Climate Ambition Summit 2020, an important step forward in the battle against the climate crisis, with several major economies announcing new commitments to cut their carbon footprints and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. | What is the Climate Action Summit? | UN Secretary-General declares "state of climate emergency" | What is net zero? | What comes next?>…
news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2020/12/1079862
Climate Ambition Summit: What is it and can it achieve where other summits have failed?
The Canary | thecanary.co | 2020-12-12
Countries are coming together this weekend to ramp up plans to cut their carbon emissions, following recent revelations that the world is still on course for a catastrophic 3C of global warming.Five years after the Paris Agreement, a virtual summit co-hosted by the UK, France, and the United Nations will see decision-makers outline new efforts to try to limit warming to between 1.5C and 2C.But what's at stake and have we left it too late? Here are some of the key questions answered. | #ClimatePromise into climate action. Our leadership explains how we're raising the ambition:
thecanary.co/global/world-news/2020/12/12/climate-ambition-summit-what-is-it-and-can-it-achieve-where-other-summits-have-failed/
English schools could face legal action if they plan to shut early for Christmas
The Canary | thecanary.co | 2020-12-12
Schools in England planning to allow pupils to learn remotely in the run-up to Christmas could face legal action to force them to remain open."Directions": New powers introduced through the Coronavirus Act allow the government to issue "directions" to headteachers around education provision during the pandemic.But should schools fail to comply after being directed to remain open, education secretary Gavin Williamson could apply for a High Court injunction forcing them to do so.Education Secretary Gavin Williamson pictured with a riding whip (Stefan Rousseau/PA)It's understood that directions under the act…
thecanary.co/uk/news/2020/12/12/english-schools-could-face-legal-action-if-they-plan-to-shut-early-for-christmas/
Antisemitism claims mask a reign of political and cultural terror across Europe
Jonathan Cook | zcomm.org | 2020-12-12
What we see here is an illustration of a principle at the heart of Israel's state ideology of Zionism: Israel needs antisemitism. Israel would quite literally have to invent antisemitism if it did not exist…
zcomm.org/znetarticle/antisemitism-claims-mask-a-reign-of-political-and-cultural-terror-across-europe/
Iran monitoring US B52 bombers' movements
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-12
TEHRAN, Dec. 12 (MNA) — The Second-in-Command of Khatam al-Anbia Air Defense Base said all the movements of regional and supra-regional forces, including US B-52 bombers, are monitored at a distance of more than 150km away from Iranian borders.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167075/Iran-monitoring-US-B52-bombers-movements
Syrian envoy submits credentials to FM Zarif
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-12
TEHRAN, Dec. 12 (MNA) — Newly-appointed Syria's ambassador to Tehran Shafiq Dayoub submitted a copy of his credentials to Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167068/Syrian-envoy-submits-credentials-to-FM-Zarif
[Comment] Offline: The coming technocracy
Richard Horton | thelancet.com | 2020-12-12
As 2020 draws to a close, one trend among nations most severely hit by COVID-19 bears some discussion. It is that democracies are evolving into technocracies, by which I mean a form of governance where those with political power are appointed on the basis of their scientific expertise. It would be hard to deny that scientists have assumed a role in political decision making unparalleled in recent memory. The French public intellectual Bernard-Henri Lévy was the first to raise the issue of medical power.
thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32668-4/fulltext?rss=yes
Nineteen Tragic Facts About Covid 19
Bill Quigley | zcomm.org | 2020-12-12
In 13 states, the unemployment benefits provided fall below the federal poverty line of $245 a week according to the Government Accountability Office…
zcomm.org/znetarticle/nineteen-tragic-facts-about-covid-19/
Wednesday 12/16: NAACP Town Hall: Slowing Pandemic Spread, #COVID19 Vaccine, & Health of Black Community
NAACP | indybay.org | 2020-12-12
Online town hall…
indybay.org/newsitems/2020/12/11/18838910.php
US to return 12 military bases to S Korea: Report
Mehr News Agency | en.mehrnews.com | 2020-12-12
TEHRAN, Dec. 12 (MNA) — South Korean officials said in a virtual meeting with the United States on Friday that they had concluded that Washington would return 12 military bases to Seoul.
en.mehrnews.com/news/167081/US-to-return-12-military-bases-to-S-Korea-Report
'Can Anybody Still Deny That We Are Facing a Dramatic Emergency?' Asks UN Chief at Climate Summit
Jessica Corbett, staff writer | commondreams.org | 2020-12-12
"If we don't change course," he warned, "we may be headed for a catastrophic temperature rise of more than 3 degrees this century." | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/gettyimages-12902475991.jpg …
commondreams.org/news/2020/12/12/can-anybody-still-deny-we-are-facing-dramatic-emergency-asks-un-chief-climate-summit?cd-origin=rss
French Police Round Up Protesters, Mainstream Media Ignores
teleSUR, ce | telesurenglish.net | 2020-12-12
French citizens held another day of large-scale protests in Paris against the global security bill, which limits the dissemination of images in which police officers can be personally identified, among other things. | RELATED: | Six People Arrested in Brazil Over the Death of Joao Silveira | Parisian police repressed the march, making several arrests, reportedly to prevent the formation of the so-called "black blocks" of protesters. | Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said that…
telesurenglish.net/news/french-police-round-up-protesters-mainstream-media-ignores-20201212-0002.html
CBO Shows Medicare For All Could Cover Everyone For Less Per Year
_____ | popularresistance.org | 2020-12-12
The Congressional Budget Office on Thursday released a report examining the costs associated with universal healthcare proposals that are based on Medicare's fee-for-service program and found that implementing a single-payer health insurance program in the United States would not only guarantee coverage for every person in the country but would also reduce overall healthcare spending nationwide. | In the words of researcher Matt Bruenig–founder and president of the progressive think tank People's Policy Project who called the CBO's working paper (pdf) on the topic…
popularresistance.org/cbo-shows-medicare-for-all-could-cover-everyone-for-less-per-year/
Resistance in the face of repression: stories from protesting farmers at Delhi's border
Pavan Kulkarni | peoplesdispatch.org | 2020-12-12
Hundreds of thousands of farmers have been protesting at the borders of Delhi for two weeks. We talk to some of them who describe the mobilization leading up to this massive protest…
peoplesdispatch.org/2020/12/12/resistance-in-the-face-of-repression-stories-from-protesting-farmers-at-delhis-border/
Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is
Extinction Rebellion | zcomm.org | 2020-12-12
Governments are pledging to avert a climate crisis while their economies bankroll and intensify it.
zcomm.org/znetarticle/put-your-money-where-your-mouth-is/
'Exactly What the Country Needs Right Now': SCOTUS Rejects Texas Suit Challenging Election Results
Jessica Corbett, staff writer | commondreams.org | 2020-12-12
"It's over over over over and 90% of GOP needs to recognize reality." | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files/styles/cd_special_coverage/public/headline/thumbs/gettyimages-12300736491.jpg …
commondreams.org/news/2020/12/11/exactly-what-country-needs-right-now-scotus-rejects-texas-suit-challenging-election?cd-origin=rss
[Perspectives] Is my cough COVID-19?
Eric J Topol | thelancet.com | 2020-12-12
Imagine that even if you have no symptoms of COVID-19, the sound of your forced cough transmitted to your smartphone or smart speaker, processed by an algorithm, could provide a 98 ∑5% accurate diagnosis. That's what a study involving more than 4000 people suggested might be possible. And it could be done anytime, free of charge, with immediate turnaround of results. It's one of many proposed uses of artificial intelligence (AI) for COVID-19. However, such technology will clearly require further research and independent replication to be refined, accepted, or implemented.
thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)32589-7/fulltext?rss=yes
Victory! Seville Cancels Electronic Warfare Europe Arms Fair
_____ | popularresistance.org | 2020-12-12
In a press release issued today by the City Council of Seville, the Councilor of Urban Housing, Tourism and Culture, Antonio Muñoz, announced the cancellation of the Electronic Warfare Europe arms fair which was scheduled to take place at the Palace of Exhibitions and Congresses of Fibes in Seville in May 2021. | The same fair had been cancelled in Liverpool, UK, where Elbit Systems, Israel's largest private weapons manufacturer whose arms are regularly used by the Israeli military to kill and maim Palestinian civilians, was a partner.
popularresistance.org/victory-seville-cancels-electronic-warfare-europe-arms-fair/