September 29, 2025 • 21 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we shine a light on a series of remarkable stories that highlight resilience, accountability, and progressive victories across the nation. A recent poll reveals that nearly half of voters in key swing districts are ready to hold Donald Trump accountable for his actions, with growing support for impeachment reflecting a demand for justice and the rule of law. This momentum is backed by over a million signatures on a petition calling for accountability, showcasing the power of grassroots advocacy.
In Oklahoma, the state Supreme Court has temporarily blocked new social studies standards that attempted to spread misinformation about the 2020 election, ensuring that students can learn honest history and civics. This decision is a significant win for educators and advocates committed to academic integrity in the face of political pressures.
Tufts University has announced an ambitious financial aid initiative, making tuition free for undergraduates from families earning under $150,000, while eliminating student loans for those from families earning less than $60,000. This groundbreaking move represents a commitment to making higher education accessible to all, regardless of economic background.
In Portland, city officials are taking a stand against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), threatening to evict the agency from a city facility being used for illegal overnight detentions. This bold action reflects a broader commitment to immigrant rights and local autonomy in the face of federal overreach.
We also share a listener-suggested story about King's Chapel in Boston, which unveiled a powerful monument honoring the enslaved individuals once held by its congregation. This act of truth-telling is a vital step towards healing and reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of confronting historical injustices.
Finally, a provocative art installation on the National Mall has sparked conversations about Trump's connections to Jeffrey Epstein, challenging viewers to reflect on the implications of political accountability and public memory.
Join us as we celebrate these inspiring stories that remind us of the progress being made every day. If you find these stories uplifting, please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about today's stories:
https://www.commondreams.org/news/trump-impeachment-poll
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/oklahoma-court-stops-social-studies-standards-with-2020-election-misinformation-from-taking-effect/ar-AA1MFdid
https://now.tufts.edu/2025/09/09/tufts-will-be-tuition-free-us-families-earning-less-150000
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/24/ice-illegally-detaining-immigrants-portland-oregon
https://www.npr.org/2025/09/15/nx-s1-5535851/boston-church-honors-enslaved-people-held-by-members-of-the-congregation
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/23/national-mall-trump-epstein-statue
https://www.commondreams.org/news/trump-impeachment-poll
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
In Oklahoma, the state Supreme Court has temporarily blocked new social studies standards that attempted to spread misinformation about the 2020 election, ensuring that students can learn honest history and civics. This decision is a significant win for educators and advocates committed to academic integrity in the face of political pressures.
Tufts University has announced an ambitious financial aid initiative, making tuition free for undergraduates from families earning under $150,000, while eliminating student loans for those from families earning less than $60,000. This groundbreaking move represents a commitment to making higher education accessible to all, regardless of economic background.
In Portland, city officials are taking a stand against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), threatening to evict the agency from a city facility being used for illegal overnight detentions. This bold action reflects a broader commitment to immigrant rights and local autonomy in the face of federal overreach.
We also share a listener-suggested story about King's Chapel in Boston, which unveiled a powerful monument honoring the enslaved individuals once held by its congregation. This act of truth-telling is a vital step towards healing and reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of confronting historical injustices.
Finally, a provocative art installation on the National Mall has sparked conversations about Trump's connections to Jeffrey Epstein, challenging viewers to reflect on the implications of political accountability and public memory.
Join us as we celebrate these inspiring stories that remind us of the progress being made every day. If you find these stories uplifting, please help us spread the word by rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about today's stories:
https://www.commondreams.org/news/trump-impeachment-poll
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/oklahoma-court-stops-social-studies-standards-with-2020-election-misinformation-from-taking-effect/ar-AA1MFdid
https://now.tufts.edu/2025/09/09/tufts-will-be-tuition-free-us-families-earning-less-150000
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/24/ice-illegally-detaining-immigrants-portland-oregon
https://www.npr.org/2025/09/15/nx-s1-5535851/boston-church-honors-enslaved-people-held-by-members-of-the-congregation
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/23/national-mall-trump-epstein-statue
https://www.commondreams.org/news/trump-impeachment-poll
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Beowulf Rocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:28):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us, and I'm
sure if you follow the news, you'll read or hear
about some of them today. All the bad news makes
it easy to lose sight of hope, and that's exactly
why it's vital to highlight the positive progressive wins happening
every day in the United States of America to help
(00:50):
us spread the positivity. If you enjoy the show, please
rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your
podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties like you
hear more good news stories and stay positive and motivated
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
news headlines designed to brighten your day. A growing share
(01:14):
of Americans in key swing districts is ready to hold
Donald Trump accountable for his attacks on the Constitution. According
to a new survey released this week. The poll, conducted
by Lake Research Partners for Free Speech for People, found
that nearly half of voters in seventeen competitive congressional districts
(01:36):
support impeaching the president, with support outpacing opposition by five points.
Forty five percent said they would strongly back removing him
from office, more than the entire share of voters who
oppose impeachment outright. The findings highlight a sharp backlash against
Trump's continued disregard for democratic norms. Just forty percent of
(01:59):
voters in these districts said they approved of his performance,
while a clear majority fifty six percent disapproved. More than
half of respondents reported they strongly disapproved of the president,
dwarfing his hardcore base of strong supporters. Progressive advocates say
the results underscore a rising demand that Congress take decisive
(02:22):
action to protect the rule of law. Free speech for People,
which has tracked what it calls Trump's impeachable offenses, points
to his use of federal forces against American communities, is
firing of independent prosecutors for political gain, efforts to intimidate
media companies, and the weaponization of immigration enforcement. Legal experts
(02:44):
with the organization warn that these moves amount to an
intentional dismantling of democratic safeguards. Trump is actively dismantling the
public institutions that protect our democracy, said Courtney Hostetler Group's
legal director. Momentum appears to be building far beyond polling numbers.
(03:05):
More than one million people have already signed a national
petition demanding accountability for what advocates describe as Trump's ongoing
high crimes. With grassroots voices aligning behind constitutional defenders, progressives
say Congress now faces a simple choice, rise to the
moment or risk seating democracy itself. For many across the country,
(03:28):
the growing push for impeachment represents not just resistance to
Trump's abuses, but a renewed commitment to ensuring that power
rests with the people, not one lawless leader. Oklahoma's highest
court has stepped in to prevent new state social study
standards laced with falsehoods about the twenty twenty election, from
(03:51):
taking effect, delivering a major win for educators, parents, and
students who demanded honesty in the classroom. The Oklahoma Supreme
Court issue a temporary stay that keeps the state's existing
standards in place while a legal challenge moves forward, halting
what critics saw as an attempt to inject disinformation into
(04:11):
public education. The decision allows a lawsuit filed by parents
and educators, represented in part by Oklahoma apple Seed. They
argued the proposed revisions, including baseless claims about the presidential
election and unproven theories about COVID nineteen's origin, undermined both
academic integrity and the constitutional promise of a secular, fact
(04:35):
based education. Public school classrooms may not be used to
endorse religious doctrine or spread conspiracy theories, said Brent Rowland,
legal director for Oklahoma apple Seed, calling the court's action
a vital step towards protecting students' rights to learn real
history and civics. The court's intervention comes amid escalating battles
(04:59):
over curriculum by state Superintendent Ryan Walters, who has leaned
heavily into culture war politics in place of serious education policy.
Walters criticized the ruling even though six of the nine
justices were appointed by Republican governors. Despite his efforts, the
legislature itself failed to rally behind his push to enshrine
(05:20):
the misinformation laden standards for parents and teachers across Oklahoma.
The ruling serves as a safeguard for truth in education.
Advocates say the outcome offers hope that classrooms will remain
spaces where young people can engage, critically, respect diverse perspectives,
and strengthen their understanding of democracy. By blocking the attempted rewrite,
(05:45):
the state's high Court has signaled that Oklahoma students deserve facts,
not propaganda when it comes to learning about the nation's
past and present. Before we get back to the news,
I want to tell you about an important podcast called
This Week Again, hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a
(06:06):
humorous look at politics and current events one week at
a time. It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast
that drops every Sunday, and, in my opinion, is the
largest single repository of creatively insulting names for Donald Trump.
Mango Mussolini, and Orange Julius Caesar are just the beginning.
(06:27):
So if you want to recap of the week and
you want a laugh into the bargain, listen to This
Week Again with Suzanne Posel on this platform or wherever
you listen to podcasts. That's This Week Again with Suzanne
POSEL s U s A N N E p O
s E L. This week again, listen, laugh, repeat. Tufts
(06:52):
University announced a sweeping expansion of financial aid that will
make tuition free for US undergraduates from families earning under
one hundred fifty thousand dollars a year, beginning with students
entering in fall twenty twenty six. Families making less than
sixty thousand dollars will also see student loans eliminated from
their aid packages, ensuring that the majority of new generation
(07:16):
Tufts graduates can begin their futures without the weight of
crushing debt. The initiative, called the Tuft's Tuition Pact, represents
one of the most ambitious commitments to affordable access in
higher education at a time when families nationwide are struggling
with skyrocketing college costs. Tufts leaders say the program reflects
(07:38):
the university's long standing pledge to meet one hundred percent
of demonstrated financial need and to make good on its
promise of opportunity for all students, regardless of zip code
or wealth. President Sunil Kumar described the move as both
a relief for families and a message of inclusion. We're
saying clearly a Tufts education is within reach. Funded by
(08:02):
more than one hundred forty three million dollars in undergraduate
aid for fiscal year twenty twenty six and supported by
generations of donors, the pact builds on Tufts position as
a leader in reducing student debt. The average Tufts graduate
currently leaves school with a loan balance less than half
of the national average, and ninety six percent of alumni
(08:24):
are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
University officials emphasize that this leap forward is not only
about affordability, but also about investing in long term success
for students and strengthening diversity across campus communities. Admissions leaders
hope the program will reach students in regions where families
(08:46):
once dismissed Tufts as financially out of reach. By replacing
sticker shock with clarity and support, the university is seeking
to open doors in every corner of the country, from
Boston neighborhoods to rural towns in the Seetheast, for thousands
of students who once thought top level higher education was
only for the wealthy. The Tuft's Tuition Pact delivers a
(09:09):
powerful promise talent, merit, and determination, not family income, will
shape who gets to thrive At one of the nation's
leading universities, Portland officials are threatening to evict US Immigration
and Customs enforcement from a city facility after discovering the
(09:31):
federal agency has been illegally using the site for overnight detentions.
The detention center, which only has city permits for office use,
has become a flashpoint in Oregon's resistance to the Trump
administration's immigration crackdowns, sparking nightly protests and illegal showdown over
ICE's violations. Local leaders say the facilities operations blatantly disregard
(09:55):
the city's permitting process and community standards. By holding people
overnight without authorization, ICE has turned the building into an
undisclosed jail, escalating tensions in a city long known for
demanding immigrant justice and civil rights. Residents, activists, and city
officials alike view the violations as further evidence of the
(10:16):
administration's disregard for democratic rules and local authority. The confrontation
comes as Donald Trump has threatened to send troops to Portland,
intensifying the standoff between local governance and federal overreach. Advocates
warn that Trump's militarized approach and ICE's disregard for local
law endanger families and a road trust in public institutions.
(10:40):
Community protests outside the facility, now nightly in scale, reflect
a broader rejection of using Portland as a staging ground
for detention and intimidation. For progressives in Oregon and across
the country, the city's move is more than a bureaucratic dispute.
It's a defense of human rights and local autonomy. By
(11:00):
threatening eviction, Portland has made clear that its residents will
not stand quietly by while federal agents flout local laws
and endanger immigrant communities. Instead, the city is affirming the
principle that protection, accountability, and community values come before the
politics of fear. Up next, a listener suggested story back
(11:25):
in a minute, and now A listener suggested story from
Ellen and Quincy, Massachusetts. A Boston church along the city's
historic Freedom Trail has taken a groundbreaking step to confront
its past and honor the hundreds of enslaved people wants
held by members of its congregation. King's Chapel, founded in
(11:47):
sixteen eighty six, unveiled a fourteen foot monument titled Unbound
which features a black woman in a flowing white dress
releasing birds from a cage, each bird representing freedom for
the two hundred nineteen people enslaved by the churches. Early
ministers and members, congregants and visitors gathered for the unveiling,
(12:08):
which organizers described as both a long overdue active truth
telling and a moment of healing. It's going to bring
about the healing we all need, said Rashana Moore Evans,
a member of the congregation's memorial committee. The names of
enslaved people who were once owned by King's Chapel members
were read aloud during the service, their memory lifted up
(12:30):
in a ceremony that also included the Black national anthem,
Lift Every Voice and Sing. The sculpture was designed by
artist Harmonia Rosales in collaboration with Mass Design Group, a
firm known for memorials that challenge historical silences. For community leaders,
the placement of Unbound along the Freedom Trail carries particular weight.
(12:54):
It forces a fuller reckoning with Boston's history and broadens
a story too often limited to victories of America's founders,
while leaving the realities of slavery untold. Historically, the freedom
Trail was about America's freedom, said doctor jah Di Amazi
of Mass Design Group. This relayers the story for what
(13:16):
it truly was. At a time when powerful forces are
working to erase honest conversations about racism and slavery from
classrooms and public spaces. Kings Chapel's decision stands as both
an act of resistance and an invitation. By acknowledging its
role in perpetuating slavery and honoring those who were once silenced,
(13:38):
the congregation is modeling what truth telling can look like
today for Boston and the millions who walk its Freedom
Trail each year. Unbound reshapes not just the past, but
also the possibilities for remembrance and justice in the present.
Thanks so much for that story, Ellen. If you have thoughts,
(13:58):
ideas are more good news to share, we'd love to
hear from you. Call or message us at two Zebra
two six five six six' two seven to, one drop
us a line At beowulf at two Squared Media productions dot,
com or send it to us at Good news For
lefties On, Facebook instagram or Blue. SKY a provocative new
(14:21):
art installation briefly appeared on The National mall this week
drawing sharp attention To Donald trump's long documented ties to
convicted sex Offender Jeffrey. Epstein the bronze plated, statue erected
with a temporary, permit depicts the two men, grinning holding,
hands and striking a playful pose under a plaque that,
(14:43):
declares we celebrate the long lasting bond Between President DONALD.
J trump and his closest, Friend Jeffrey. Epstein the statue
quickly became a magnet for, onlookers sparking conversations about how
public art can challenge power and lift up truths that
political leaders prefer to. Bury washington visitors photographed the display
(15:06):
and debated its, meaning with progressives describing it as a
scathing indictment Of trump's history of enabling abusers and surrounding
himself with people tied to. Exploitation by Situating trump Beside
epstein in such a prominent, space the work reminded viewers
that presidents too must be judged for the company they
(15:27):
keep and the harm they. Allow for advocates who have
fought for accountability Around trump's record And epstein's, crimes the
statue represents an act of cultural, resistance exposing, corruption breaking,
taboos and refusing to let powerful men escape public. Memory
even after its. Removal the image Of trump And, epstein
(15:47):
cast in bronze On america's most symbolic public, square underscores
a lasting. Truth no amount of bluster can undo, history
nor silence those determined to confront. It and that's a
wrap for today's edition Of Good news For. Lefties remember
if these stories brighten your, outlook please help us spread
(16:09):
the word by rating and reviewing us On Apple, Podcasts,
spotify or your podcast platform of. CHOICE a big thanks
to our production, Team Rosabel heine And Aaron watson for
making all of this possible behind the. Scenes I'm Beowulf,
rocklin weird name Good news For lefties And.
Speaker 2 (16:30):
America here's what you've been missing on The Stephanie Miller
Happy hour. PODCAST i think it just.
Speaker 3 (16:54):
Harks back To trump's particular style of. Negotiating you, know
one day it's Like zelenski's the worst and we're going
to take away all your weapons and your, equipment AND
i mean it just shows a level of abject. Desperation
he really thinks he can play an X kgb dictator by, saying,
well Maybe ukraine will. Win BUT i want to point
(17:15):
one thing out in that little. Comment he did not
say The United. States he Said europe AND. Nato and
the way he's been talking is we'll, sell you, know
because he's out to make money personal he'll sell equipment To.
Europe but when he MEANS, nato he MEANS nato without
The United, states with minimal responsibility over. There and now
(17:37):
it's about Maybe i'll just go make my money off Of.
Ukraine and he really Thinks putin is going to come
crawling to. Him expect a massive provocation to Make trump look.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
Stupid thank, You.
Speaker 4 (17:48):
MALCOLM i was going to, say this is what's they always,
say it's whoever he talks to, last because he's such a,
dunce because he talked To. Zelinsky and All putin has
to do is threaten him or or you, know suck
up to, him and he'll say one hundred and eighty
degree the opposite the next, day won't. HE i, mean
he's done this.
Speaker 3 (18:03):
Before, yeah, absolutely and so do all of his psycho.
FANS i don't know who wrote that up for. Him
my guess Is Marco rubio is the one who wrote
that up for. Him but those aren't his. Words, YEAH
i mean one they're, coherent.
Speaker 4 (18:17):
Right not how we.
Speaker 1 (18:19):
Talk they offer a.
Speaker 3 (18:20):
Policy from beginning to. End so that's not. His so you,
KNOW i don't think The United states is going back
to the side Of. ZELENSKI i think he's going to
the side of whoever can pay him and his friends'.
Speaker 2 (18:35):
Money subscribe to The Stephanie Miller Happy Our podcast On Apple,
Podcasts Stephanie miller dot, com or wherever you get your favorite, Podcasts.
Speaker 1 (18:48):
And in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline teachers and community organizers Across Los angeles have taken
on a new frontline role this, school protecting immigrant families
from federal immigration rates with heightened enforcement under The trump.
Administration educators are teaming up with, unions, tenants rights, groups
(19:11):
and neighborhood patrols to keep watch around campuses and ensure
students can get to class. Safely for many, families that
protection has become as essential as lesson plans and school.
Supplies the coordinated effort builds on years of grassroots organizing IN.
La volunteers now patrol outside, schools distribute know Your rights,
information and collaborate with district leaders to create safe zones
(19:34):
for the city's thirty thousand immigrant, students seventy five hundred
of whom are. Undocumented from adjusted bus routes to virtual learning,
options schools are rethinking security and, access with one guiding
principle that every child deserves to feel welcome and safe
in the. Classroom Superintendent Alberto carvallo praised the turnout on
(19:57):
LAUSD's first day of, school attendance was two percent higher
than last, year as proof that those safeguards are. Working
behind the, vigilance, however are stories of students carrying a
heavy load of. Fear counselors report older children breaking down
in their, offices convinced their parents could be swept up
on the. Street teachers Like Clemen avallos And Lupe Carrasco
(20:22):
cardona recall their own childhood memories of anti immigrant crackdowns
and say that lived experience drives their commitment to stand
outside before the bell rings for families caught in the.
Crackdowns crossairs patrols often provide both security and a reminder
of community. Solidarity union members say what gives them hope
is the coalition, itself a network that spans, teachers housing, activists,
(20:46):
parents and even local. Grocers who have donated. Resources in
a climate where children ask whether ice might appear at their,
schools educators now reassure them not only with, words but with.
Action As cardona put, it the hope is in The.
Coalition For Los, angeles these daily acts of protection have
become not just about resisting, fear but about showing a
(21:07):
new model of care that other cities may soon. Follow
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Beowulf Rocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:28):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us, and I'm
sure if you follow the news, you'll read or hear
about some of them today. All the bad news makes
it easy to lose sight of hope, and that's exactly
why it's vital to highlight the positive progressive wins happening
every day in the United States of America to help
(00:50):
us spread the positivity. If you enjoy the show, please
rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your
podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties like you
hear more good news stories and stay positive and motivated
for the days ahead. Now, let's get to some good
news headlines designed to brighten your day. A growing share
(01:14):
of Americans in key swing districts is ready to hold
Donald Trump accountable for his attacks on the Constitution. According
to a new survey released this week. The poll, conducted
by Lake Research Partners for Free Speech for People, found
that nearly half of voters in seventeen competitive congressional districts
(01:36):
support impeaching the president, with support outpacing opposition by five points.
Forty five percent said they would strongly back removing him
from office, more than the entire share of voters who
oppose impeachment outright. The findings highlight a sharp backlash against
Trump's continued disregard for democratic norms. Just forty percent of
(01:59):
voters in these districts said they approved of his performance,
while a clear majority fifty six percent disapproved. More than
half of respondents reported they strongly disapproved of the president,
dwarfing his hardcore base of strong supporters. Progressive advocates say
the results underscore a rising demand that Congress take decisive
(02:22):
action to protect the rule of law. Free speech for People,
which has tracked what it calls Trump's impeachable offenses, points
to his use of federal forces against American communities, is
firing of independent prosecutors for political gain, efforts to intimidate
media companies, and the weaponization of immigration enforcement. Legal experts
(02:44):
with the organization warn that these moves amount to an
intentional dismantling of democratic safeguards. Trump is actively dismantling the
public institutions that protect our democracy, said Courtney Hostetler Group's
legal director. Momentum appears to be building far beyond polling numbers.
(03:05):
More than one million people have already signed a national
petition demanding accountability for what advocates describe as Trump's ongoing
high crimes. With grassroots voices aligning behind constitutional defenders, progressives
say Congress now faces a simple choice, rise to the
moment or risk seating democracy itself. For many across the country,
(03:28):
the growing push for impeachment represents not just resistance to
Trump's abuses, but a renewed commitment to ensuring that power
rests with the people, not one lawless leader. Oklahoma's highest
court has stepped in to prevent new state social study
standards laced with falsehoods about the twenty twenty election, from
(03:51):
taking effect, delivering a major win for educators, parents, and
students who demanded honesty in the classroom. The Oklahoma Supreme
Court issue a temporary stay that keeps the state's existing
standards in place while a legal challenge moves forward, halting
what critics saw as an attempt to inject disinformation into
(04:11):
public education. The decision allows a lawsuit filed by parents
and educators, represented in part by Oklahoma apple Seed. They
argued the proposed revisions, including baseless claims about the presidential
election and unproven theories about COVID nineteen's origin, undermined both
academic integrity and the constitutional promise of a secular, fact
(04:35):
based education. Public school classrooms may not be used to
endorse religious doctrine or spread conspiracy theories, said Brent Rowland,
legal director for Oklahoma apple Seed, calling the court's action
a vital step towards protecting students' rights to learn real
history and civics. The court's intervention comes amid escalating battles
(04:59):
over curriculum by state Superintendent Ryan Walters, who has leaned
heavily into culture war politics in place of serious education policy.
Walters criticized the ruling even though six of the nine
justices were appointed by Republican governors. Despite his efforts, the
legislature itself failed to rally behind his push to enshrine
(05:20):
the misinformation laden standards for parents and teachers across Oklahoma.
The ruling serves as a safeguard for truth in education.
Advocates say the outcome offers hope that classrooms will remain
spaces where young people can engage, critically, respect diverse perspectives,
and strengthen their understanding of democracy. By blocking the attempted rewrite,
(05:45):
the state's high Court has signaled that Oklahoma students deserve facts,
not propaganda when it comes to learning about the nation's
past and present. Before we get back to the news,
I want to tell you about an important podcast called
This Week Again, hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a
(06:06):
humorous look at politics and current events one week at
a time. It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast
that drops every Sunday, and, in my opinion, is the
largest single repository of creatively insulting names for Donald Trump.
Mango Mussolini, and Orange Julius Caesar are just the beginning.
(06:27):
So if you want to recap of the week and
you want a laugh into the bargain, listen to This
Week Again with Suzanne Posel on this platform or wherever
you listen to podcasts. That's This Week Again with Suzanne
POSEL s U s A N N E p O
s E L. This week again, listen, laugh, repeat. Tufts
(06:52):
University announced a sweeping expansion of financial aid that will
make tuition free for US undergraduates from families earning under
one hundred fifty thousand dollars a year, beginning with students
entering in fall twenty twenty six. Families making less than
sixty thousand dollars will also see student loans eliminated from
their aid packages, ensuring that the majority of new generation
(07:16):
Tufts graduates can begin their futures without the weight of
crushing debt. The initiative, called the Tuft's Tuition Pact, represents
one of the most ambitious commitments to affordable access in
higher education at a time when families nationwide are struggling
with skyrocketing college costs. Tufts leaders say the program reflects
(07:38):
the university's long standing pledge to meet one hundred percent
of demonstrated financial need and to make good on its
promise of opportunity for all students, regardless of zip code
or wealth. President Sunil Kumar described the move as both
a relief for families and a message of inclusion. We're
saying clearly a Tufts education is within reach. Funded by
(08:02):
more than one hundred forty three million dollars in undergraduate
aid for fiscal year twenty twenty six and supported by
generations of donors, the pact builds on Tufts position as
a leader in reducing student debt. The average Tufts graduate
currently leaves school with a loan balance less than half
of the national average, and ninety six percent of alumni
(08:24):
are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
University officials emphasize that this leap forward is not only
about affordability, but also about investing in long term success
for students and strengthening diversity across campus communities. Admissions leaders
hope the program will reach students in regions where families
(08:46):
once dismissed Tufts as financially out of reach. By replacing
sticker shock with clarity and support, the university is seeking
to open doors in every corner of the country, from
Boston neighborhoods to rural towns in the Seetheast, for thousands
of students who once thought top level higher education was
only for the wealthy. The Tuft's Tuition Pact delivers a
(09:09):
powerful promise talent, merit, and determination, not family income, will
shape who gets to thrive At one of the nation's
leading universities, Portland officials are threatening to evict US Immigration
and Customs enforcement from a city facility after discovering the
(09:31):
federal agency has been illegally using the site for overnight detentions.
The detention center, which only has city permits for office use,
has become a flashpoint in Oregon's resistance to the Trump
administration's immigration crackdowns, sparking nightly protests and illegal showdown over
ICE's violations. Local leaders say the facilities operations blatantly disregard
(09:55):
the city's permitting process and community standards. By holding people
overnight without authorization, ICE has turned the building into an
undisclosed jail, escalating tensions in a city long known for
demanding immigrant justice and civil rights. Residents, activists, and city
officials alike view the violations as further evidence of the
(10:16):
administration's disregard for democratic rules and local authority. The confrontation
comes as Donald Trump has threatened to send troops to Portland,
intensifying the standoff between local governance and federal overreach. Advocates
warn that Trump's militarized approach and ICE's disregard for local
law endanger families and a road trust in public institutions.
(10:40):
Community protests outside the facility, now nightly in scale, reflect
a broader rejection of using Portland as a staging ground
for detention and intimidation. For progressives in Oregon and across
the country, the city's move is more than a bureaucratic dispute.
It's a defense of human rights and local autonomy. By
(11:00):
threatening eviction, Portland has made clear that its residents will
not stand quietly by while federal agents flout local laws
and endanger immigrant communities. Instead, the city is affirming the
principle that protection, accountability, and community values come before the
politics of fear. Up next, a listener suggested story back
(11:25):
in a minute, and now A listener suggested story from
Ellen and Quincy, Massachusetts. A Boston church along the city's
historic Freedom Trail has taken a groundbreaking step to confront
its past and honor the hundreds of enslaved people wants
held by members of its congregation. King's Chapel, founded in
(11:47):
sixteen eighty six, unveiled a fourteen foot monument titled Unbound
which features a black woman in a flowing white dress
releasing birds from a cage, each bird representing freedom for
the two hundred nineteen people enslaved by the churches. Early
ministers and members, congregants and visitors gathered for the unveiling,
(12:08):
which organizers described as both a long overdue active truth
telling and a moment of healing. It's going to bring
about the healing we all need, said Rashana Moore Evans,
a member of the congregation's memorial committee. The names of
enslaved people who were once owned by King's Chapel members
were read aloud during the service, their memory lifted up
(12:30):
in a ceremony that also included the Black national anthem,
Lift Every Voice and Sing. The sculpture was designed by
artist Harmonia Rosales in collaboration with Mass Design Group, a
firm known for memorials that challenge historical silences. For community leaders,
the placement of Unbound along the Freedom Trail carries particular weight.
(12:54):
It forces a fuller reckoning with Boston's history and broadens
a story too often limited to victories of America's founders,
while leaving the realities of slavery untold. Historically, the freedom
Trail was about America's freedom, said doctor jah Di Amazi
of Mass Design Group. This relayers the story for what
(13:16):
it truly was. At a time when powerful forces are
working to erase honest conversations about racism and slavery from
classrooms and public spaces. Kings Chapel's decision stands as both
an act of resistance and an invitation. By acknowledging its
role in perpetuating slavery and honoring those who were once silenced,
(13:38):
the congregation is modeling what truth telling can look like
today for Boston and the millions who walk its Freedom
Trail each year. Unbound reshapes not just the past, but
also the possibilities for remembrance and justice in the present.
Thanks so much for that story, Ellen. If you have thoughts,
(13:58):
ideas are more good news to share, we'd love to
hear from you. Call or message us at two Zebra
two six five six six' two seven to, one drop
us a line At beowulf at two Squared Media productions dot,
com or send it to us at Good news For
lefties On, Facebook instagram or Blue. SKY a provocative new
(14:21):
art installation briefly appeared on The National mall this week
drawing sharp attention To Donald trump's long documented ties to
convicted sex Offender Jeffrey. Epstein the bronze plated, statue erected
with a temporary, permit depicts the two men, grinning holding,
hands and striking a playful pose under a plaque that,
(14:43):
declares we celebrate the long lasting bond Between President DONALD.
J trump and his closest, Friend Jeffrey. Epstein the statue
quickly became a magnet for, onlookers sparking conversations about how
public art can challenge power and lift up truths that
political leaders prefer to. Bury washington visitors photographed the display
(15:06):
and debated its, meaning with progressives describing it as a
scathing indictment Of trump's history of enabling abusers and surrounding
himself with people tied to. Exploitation by Situating trump Beside
epstein in such a prominent, space the work reminded viewers
that presidents too must be judged for the company they
(15:27):
keep and the harm they. Allow for advocates who have
fought for accountability Around trump's record And epstein's, crimes the
statue represents an act of cultural, resistance exposing, corruption breaking,
taboos and refusing to let powerful men escape public. Memory
even after its. Removal the image Of trump And, epstein
(15:47):
cast in bronze On america's most symbolic public, square underscores
a lasting. Truth no amount of bluster can undo, history
nor silence those determined to confront. It and that's a
wrap for today's edition Of Good news For. Lefties remember
if these stories brighten your, outlook please help us spread
(16:09):
the word by rating and reviewing us On Apple, Podcasts,
spotify or your podcast platform of. CHOICE a big thanks
to our production, Team Rosabel heine And Aaron watson for
making all of this possible behind the. Scenes I'm Beowulf,
rocklin weird name Good news For lefties And.
Speaker 2 (16:30):
America here's what you've been missing on The Stephanie Miller
Happy hour. PODCAST i think it just.
Speaker 3 (16:54):
Harks back To trump's particular style of. Negotiating you, know
one day it's Like zelenski's the worst and we're going
to take away all your weapons and your, equipment AND
i mean it just shows a level of abject. Desperation
he really thinks he can play an X kgb dictator by, saying,
well Maybe ukraine will. Win BUT i want to point
(17:15):
one thing out in that little. Comment he did not
say The United. States he Said europe AND. Nato and
the way he's been talking is we'll, sell you, know
because he's out to make money personal he'll sell equipment To.
Europe but when he MEANS, nato he MEANS nato without
The United, states with minimal responsibility over. There and now
(17:37):
it's about Maybe i'll just go make my money off Of.
Ukraine and he really Thinks putin is going to come
crawling to. Him expect a massive provocation to Make trump look.
Speaker 2 (17:47):
Stupid thank, You.
Speaker 4 (17:48):
MALCOLM i was going to, say this is what's they always,
say it's whoever he talks to, last because he's such a,
dunce because he talked To. Zelinsky and All putin has
to do is threaten him or or you, know suck
up to, him and he'll say one hundred and eighty
degree the opposite the next, day won't. HE i, mean
he's done this.
Speaker 3 (18:03):
Before, yeah, absolutely and so do all of his psycho.
FANS i don't know who wrote that up for. Him
my guess Is Marco rubio is the one who wrote
that up for. Him but those aren't his. Words, YEAH
i mean one they're, coherent.
Speaker 4 (18:17):
Right not how we.
Speaker 1 (18:19):
Talk they offer a.
Speaker 3 (18:20):
Policy from beginning to. End so that's not. His so you,
KNOW i don't think The United states is going back
to the side Of. ZELENSKI i think he's going to
the side of whoever can pay him and his friends'.
Speaker 2 (18:35):
Money subscribe to The Stephanie Miller Happy Our podcast On Apple,
Podcasts Stephanie miller dot, com or wherever you get your favorite, Podcasts.
Speaker 1 (18:48):
And in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline teachers and community organizers Across Los angeles have taken
on a new frontline role this, school protecting immigrant families
from federal immigration rates with heightened enforcement under The trump.
Administration educators are teaming up with, unions, tenants rights, groups
(19:11):
and neighborhood patrols to keep watch around campuses and ensure
students can get to class. Safely for many, families that
protection has become as essential as lesson plans and school.
Supplies the coordinated effort builds on years of grassroots organizing IN.
La volunteers now patrol outside, schools distribute know Your rights,
information and collaborate with district leaders to create safe zones
(19:34):
for the city's thirty thousand immigrant, students seventy five hundred
of whom are. Undocumented from adjusted bus routes to virtual learning,
options schools are rethinking security and, access with one guiding
principle that every child deserves to feel welcome and safe
in the. Classroom Superintendent Alberto carvallo praised the turnout on
(19:57):
LAUSD's first day of, school attendance was two percent higher
than last, year as proof that those safeguards are. Working
behind the, vigilance, however are stories of students carrying a
heavy load of. Fear counselors report older children breaking down
in their, offices convinced their parents could be swept up
on the. Street teachers Like Clemen avallos And Lupe Carrasco
(20:22):
cardona recall their own childhood memories of anti immigrant crackdowns
and say that lived experience drives their commitment to stand
outside before the bell rings for families caught in the.
Crackdowns crossairs patrols often provide both security and a reminder
of community. Solidarity union members say what gives them hope
is the coalition, itself a network that spans, teachers housing, activists,
(20:46):
parents and even local. Grocers who have donated. Resources in
a climate where children ask whether ice might appear at their,
schools educators now reassure them not only with, words but with.
Action As cardona put, it the hope is in The.
Coalition For Los, angeles these daily acts of protection have
become not just about resisting, fear but about showing a
(21:07):
new model of care that other cities may soon. Follow
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