Among the many compelling reasons to make sure that President Donald Trump and Mike Pence are not re-elected on Nov. 3, perhaps the 26 most compelling are the transgender Americans — most of them trans women of color — known to have been murdered this year.
As COVID-19’s devastating impact on our economy continues with no end in sight, this past Labor Day Holiday witnessed many residents of our Island City struggling to get by and unemployed.
There is a Buddhist meditation that says, “Just like everyone else, all that is mine, beloved and pleasing, will change, will become otherwise, will become separated from me.” The mantra is intended to help prepare us for loss, and for our death.
Everyone has a story that helps explain, not excuse, why they think the way they do. Taking the time to listen to another’s tale is a gift to them. Having them take the time to tell us the what and wherefore of their lives is a gift to us. If we take the time to listen, we will never be the same. If they take the time to tell us, nor will they be.
Most of us growing up were taught that American democracy, our institutions, and our shared values had somewhat of a sacred character. Americans, no matter if you were Conservative, Liberal, Republican, Democrat, Catholic, Protestant, White, Black, Hispanic, Male, Female, no matter your background, we were all still part of a special place called the United States of America.
In keeping with the Island City tradition, our City Commissioners voted to cancel the first scheduled City Commission meeting in August for summer break.
