September 5, 2025 • 18 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen presents a compelling array of stories that showcase progress and innovation in the fight for democracy and social justice. First, a federal appeals court has made a landmark ruling that reinforces the principles of humane immigration policy and due process, stating that President Trump's attempt to expedite deportations of Venezuelan migrants through the Alien Enemies Act is unconstitutional. This pivotal decision marks a significant victory for advocates fighting for a just immigration system, highlighting the need for policies grounded in facts rather than fear.
In California, lawmakers have passed the SAFE Act SB98, which mandates that K-12 schools and state universities notify families when immigration agents are present on campus. This legislation aims to transform schools into safe havens for learning, ensuring that students can focus on their education without the looming threat of deportation.
In labor news, over 12,000 Stater Brothers union workers in Southern California ratified a new three-year contract, securing substantial wage increases and improved healthcare benefits. This achievement reflects a growing wave of solidarity among workers, emphasizing the importance of fair labor practices and safe working conditions.
Additionally, a compassionate initiative by medical student Steffi Casimir in Oakland has led to the establishment of a free podiatry clinic for unhoused individuals, providing vital foot care to prevent serious health complications. This grassroots effort demonstrates how simple acts of kindness can profoundly impact those facing homelessness.
We also spotlight an innovative student loan program in Hawaii that eliminates interest and fees through a Pay it Forward model, supporting low-income students while fostering a sustainable funding cycle for future learners. This approach is gaining traction across the nation as a viable solution to the student debt crisis.
Finally, a recent survey reveals a growing consensus among Americans in favor of affordable housing, with 63% viewing it positively and a majority supporting new developments in their communities. This shift in perception is crucial in addressing the housing affordability crisis and promoting community stability.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
More about today's stories:
https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5483251-appeals-court-rules-trump-cant-use-alien-enemies-act-to-swiftly-deport-venezuelans/
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/02/california-immigration-enforcement-schools-families
https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2025/08/15/12000-union-workers-ratify-new-labor-contract-with-stater-bros/
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/free-podiatry-practice-for-homeless
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/student-debt-pay-it-forward
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/affordable-housing-viewed-positively-poll
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/UadjngGQ4ddwHL850yH2lujNnqnffdnMUKGiTduI1SAkzd3gO3JeWikPBUYvHjqRpb3wl-6co5uiwT2a3QuBNyAA4S7xmWP5I49TUcuQe-Ki-wjrjbqOjlxWJgFCqEHK_7rOpyH81qxI_SjP42cp9EeOE6f7
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
In California, lawmakers have passed the SAFE Act SB98, which mandates that K-12 schools and state universities notify families when immigration agents are present on campus. This legislation aims to transform schools into safe havens for learning, ensuring that students can focus on their education without the looming threat of deportation.
In labor news, over 12,000 Stater Brothers union workers in Southern California ratified a new three-year contract, securing substantial wage increases and improved healthcare benefits. This achievement reflects a growing wave of solidarity among workers, emphasizing the importance of fair labor practices and safe working conditions.
Additionally, a compassionate initiative by medical student Steffi Casimir in Oakland has led to the establishment of a free podiatry clinic for unhoused individuals, providing vital foot care to prevent serious health complications. This grassroots effort demonstrates how simple acts of kindness can profoundly impact those facing homelessness.
We also spotlight an innovative student loan program in Hawaii that eliminates interest and fees through a Pay it Forward model, supporting low-income students while fostering a sustainable funding cycle for future learners. This approach is gaining traction across the nation as a viable solution to the student debt crisis.
Finally, a recent survey reveals a growing consensus among Americans in favor of affordable housing, with 63% viewing it positively and a majority supporting new developments in their communities. This shift in perception is crucial in addressing the housing affordability crisis and promoting community stability.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
More about today's stories:
https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5483251-appeals-court-rules-trump-cant-use-alien-enemies-act-to-swiftly-deport-venezuelans/
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/02/california-immigration-enforcement-schools-families
https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2025/08/15/12000-union-workers-ratify-new-labor-contract-with-stater-bros/
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/free-podiatry-practice-for-homeless
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/student-debt-pay-it-forward
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/affordable-housing-viewed-positively-poll
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/UadjngGQ4ddwHL850yH2lujNnqnffdnMUKGiTduI1SAkzd3gO3JeWikPBUYvHjqRpb3wl-6co5uiwT2a3QuBNyAA4S7xmWP5I49TUcuQe-Ki-wjrjbqOjlxWJgFCqEHK_7rOpyH81qxI_SjP42cp9EeOE6f7
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 Bailable Frocklin,
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,
(00:27):
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
(00:49):
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
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 federal appeals court
(01:11):
has delivered a clear message attempts to use the Alien
Enemies Act as a weapon for mass deportations. Have no
place in modern American justice. The majority on the panel
ruled that President Trump lacked the authority to fast track
removals of Venezuelan migrants, rejecting claims that alleged gang activity
constituted the kind of national security crisis that centuries old
(01:33):
law was designed for. This ruling represents a pivotal moment
for those advocating for humane immigration policy and respect for
due process. Organizations like the ACLU, alongside immigrant communities, have
maintained that targeting entire populations under vague pretexts undermines basic
legal protections and threatens the basic fabric of American society.
(01:57):
Of you, the Court has just endorsed. The decision not
only blocks the administration from bypassing longstanding legal standards, but
also reinforces the need for policies rooted in facts and fairness,
not just fear tactics. Judges highlighted that even with modern challenges,
there is no justification to sidestep constitutional rights in the
(02:17):
name of expediency or executive power. While the fight may
continue in higher courts, this moment energizes those working toward
a more welcoming and just immigration system. The Court's stand
affirms that America's greatest strength lies not an exclusion, but
in the ongoing pursuit of justice and dignity for all,
no matter where they begin their journey. California's legislature has
(02:42):
moved decisively to protect immigrant families in the face of
ramped up federal deportation efforts. Lawmakers pass the Safe Act
SB ninety eight, requiring all K through twelve schools, state universities,
and community colleges to notify families, students, and SIP school
employees if immigration agents arrive on campus, mirroring procedures for
(03:05):
other campus emergencies. Progressive leaders champion the measure as an
urgent step to insure schools remain sanctuaries of learning, not fear.
Senator Sasha Renae Perez, the bill's author, stressed that clear
and immediate alerts empower families to make informed safety decisions
as children are turned to classrooms under the threat of
(03:25):
mass raids and detentions. The legislation responds directly to troubling incidents,
including a recent case where a Los Angeles student was
detained at gunpoint, and is part of a broader package
advancing immigrant rights across California. The bill has widespread support
from educators and advocates who argue that learning cannot occur
(03:46):
when communities live in constant anxiety about family separation. With
as many as thirty thousand immigrant students in Los Angeles
unified alone, officials and teachers have urged state lawmakers to
take a firm and compassionate stand against disruptions to student
safety and well being. Now on the desk of Governor
Gavin Newsom, the act is poised to take effect immediately
(04:08):
upon his signature and remain in force through twenty thirty one.
If signed, it will cement California's position as a national
leader in standing up for immigrant communities and send a
powerful signal that every student deserves the right to learn
without the shadow of deportation looming over their school. Before
we get back to the news, I want to tell
you about an important podcast called This Week Again, hosted
(04:33):
by Suzanne Posel. It takes a 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
(04:56):
the beginning. 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 USA, n n E pose E
L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat. More than twelve
(05:21):
thousand Stater Brothers union workers across southern California have ratified
a powerful new three year contract after months of determined
organizing and community solidarity. The agreement offers substantial wage increases,
a new supplemental pension plan for a secure retirement, and
ramped up healthcare benefits, including quicker eligibility for new hires.
(05:43):
Building on momentum from recent actions at other regional supermarket chains,
workers won vital language to protect jobs from subcontracting and
secured staffing guarantees, ensuring safer and more sustainable working conditions.
The new contract also gives frontline employees more say over
workplace safety in store operations, a major advance following high
(06:05):
stakes bargaining marked by widespread worker participation and assertive union action.
Union leaders highlighted that this contract marks the culmination of
unprecedented worker unity, turning up at rallies, organizing boycotts, and
resisting corporate intimidation. Their advocacy was central in achieving fair raises,
improved health coverage, and real retirement security after years of
(06:28):
economic headwinds in the grocery sector. State Brothers officials expressed
satisfaction with the deal, citing their ability to maintain affordable
prices for customers while investing in strong pay and benefits
for team members. With this ratification, nearly all major Southern
California grocery contracts are now settled, reflecting a wave of
(06:48):
progressive gains for frontline food workers across the region. Steffy Casimir,
a passionate medical student in Oakland, has launched a unique
little free pay dietary practice to provide essential footcare for
unhoused neighbors. Recognizing that healthy feet are crucial to daily
survival and dignity, Kasimir set up her pop up clinic
(07:11):
at local church run outreach events, offering everything from wound
cleanings to nail trimming and custom fitting for new sneakers
with supplies donated by supporters who learned about her work
on TikTok For people experiencing homelessness, Constant walking and ill
fitting shoes can lead to serious injuries and infections, and
(07:31):
Kasimir's intervention has proven life changing. Her practice not only
relieves immediate pain, but also prevents major complications like ulcers
and amputations, which often result from missed early care or
chronic conditions such as diabetes. Kasimir's outreach is sustained by
a network of volunteers and an online wish list, ensuring
(07:52):
that everyone she treats leaves with new hygiene kits, including socks, snacks,
and first aid items. After losing formal funding for supplies,
her efforts in California were supercharged by viral social media videos,
inspiring strangers to send needed items and keep the clinic
stocked for future pop ups. Beyond addressing urgent health needs,
(08:15):
Kasimir's regular presence offares companionship, support and education about foot care.
Her model demonstrates how simple grassroots action, specially led by
future health professionals, can dramatically improve comfort, mobility, and hope
for residents facing some of Oakland, California's toughest challenges up next,
(08:37):
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now
a listener suggested story from Bonnie. In Salt Lake City, Utah,
a new student loan program is reshaping out college financing
works by eliminating interest and fees through a pay it
forward model that supports low income students while building a
sustainable funding pool for future learners. Launched in initially at
(09:00):
the University of Hawaii Manoa's College of Engineering as the
Hawaii Renewable Learning Fund, this two point five million dollar
revolving loan fund offers tuition loans that students repay only
if they earn above a certain salary after graduation. All
repayments feedback into the fund, creating an ongoing cycle of support.
(09:21):
Students who earn less than fifty thousand dollars annually can
defer payments with zero monthly obligations, reducing financial pressure during
uncertain job prospects. Local employers partner with the fund by
assisting employees in loan repayment, aligning education financing with workforce needs,
and helping fill critical talent shortages in sectors like engineering,
(09:44):
health care, cybersecurity, and climate science. This innovative approach draws
on Hawaii's cultural tradition of kokua, or mutual help. Emphasizing
community investment over profit, Students appreciate knowing their repayments directly
aid the next X generation of learners, fostering a cycle
of gratitude and collective uplift rather than individual debt burdens.
(10:07):
Early successes are now inspiring similar pilot programs in states
like Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Florida, and San Diego,
signaling potential nationwide change in how higher education is funded.
Supporters see this model as a crucial proof of concept
in an era where nearly forty three million Americans carry
(10:29):
over one point seven trillion dollars in student debt, creating
barriers to education and economic mobility. By recycling funds and
eliminating interest, pay it forward loans could extend educational access equitably,
while also forging stronger connections between students, employers, and local economies,
turning tuition from a lifelong burden into a shared investment
(10:52):
in community prosperity. Thanks for that story, Bonnie. If you
have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we'd
love to hear from you. Call or message us at
two zero 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
(11:16):
new survey commissioned by Built and conducted by Talker Research
reveals that a broad majority of Americans now have a
positive view of affordable housing and are increasingly supportive of
policies to expand it in their communities, despite the persistent
narrative of nimbiism opposition to new developments in one's neighborhood.
The study finds sixty three percent of respondents view the
(11:39):
term affordable housing positively, with two thirds willing to live
in or next to affordable housing, and fifty three percent
welcoming conversions of existing buildings into such units. The survey,
which included one thousand adults balanced across political lines, reflects
the realities of America's housing crisis. The average person spends
(12:00):
forty two percent of their income on housing costs, with
nearly half attributing this burden to living in high cost areas.
This economic pressure is translating into broader support for housing solutions,
including sixty five percent of respondents who would back new
affordable housing developments in their neighborhoods forty five percent supportive
of converting surplus commercial buildings into homes and forty two
(12:23):
percent in favor of requiring affordable units in new developments. Interestingly,
eighty three percent of people view affordable housing more favorably
compared to other multi family housing options like town homes, apartments,
and mobile homes, suggesting a shift in perception, seeing affordable
housing as essential to sustaining communities rather than a detriment. Still,
(12:45):
the survey also highlights confusion around what affordable housing entails,
with misunderstandings about who it serves, some seeing it as
only for extremely low income or public housing, others as
a resource for broader demographics, including cens years, veterans, and
first time buyers. This growing consensus aligns with other recent
findings connecting the housing affordability crisis to increased homelessness and
(13:09):
economic insecurity across the nation. Advocates emphasize that affordable housing
is crucial to sustaining the American dream of home ownership
and community stability, calling for policymakers to focus efforts on
expanding affordable, inclusive, and quality housing options as a cornerstone
of stronger, fair communities for all Americans. That's a wrap
(13:34):
for today's edition of Good News for Lefties. Remember if
these stories brighten your outlook, please help us spread the
word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team roosabelt Hein and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm Beowulf Rockland,
(13:55):
weird name good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (14:16):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
You don't have anybody who can really talk about the
wins at the party and the fights that the parties
engage in.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
And that is my big frustration with you.
Speaker 1 (14:30):
Trust me.
Speaker 2 (14:30):
You know how times I've said to the TV, why
do you have that idiot on? They're not the head
of the Democratic but Jamie Harrison is the chairman of
the Okay, anyway, you wrote a piece, and I say
this all the time, Chairman is just it's not about
where you are on the political spectrum. It's about fighters
or folders. And you wrote a whole piece about how
people want us to fight. I think it's what Gavin
(14:50):
Newsom is doing, what Governor Pritzker is doing. You said,
enthusiasm grows when you see a part when voter see
a party fighting and winning, and Democrats are doing both.
Fighting back on redistricting attacks, special election wins, constant gloom
both sides coverage and magnified democratic drama doesn't inspire turnout.
They smother it. And I just thought, especially coming from
an insider like you chair, the open letter to political
(15:13):
consultants was so dead on. You had a conversation with
Senator Gego. You said, we were talking about the challenge
of working with political consultants who don't only always understand
the lived experiences of candidates of color. We talked about
the importance of listening and learning from the communities we
want to serve. Just say a little more, because this
whole piece is brilliant. It's you were saying, people listen
(15:35):
to the one black friend they had from college and
think that qualifies them. I had that, and you said,
through that friendship, you gained the confidence believe you speak
authority about communities you don't belong to. Here's the problem.
One friend does not make you fluid in the lived
experience of millions of voters. Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller
Happy Our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stephanie Miller dot com,
(15:59):
or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
Immigration court watch programs are rapidly emerging as a powerful
grassroots response to the erosion of immigrant rights and growing
authoritarianism in the US. These initiatives, run by faith based
and secular coalitions, place volunteers in courtrooms and communities to observe, document,
(16:30):
and support immigrants facing detention and deportation. The presence of
volunteers does more than offer solidarity. It helps gather critical
information that can keep families informed and prevent individuals from
being disappeared by a system that now detains and removes
people in alarming numbers, often without criminal records or warning.
(16:52):
This collective witness strategy draws inspiration from Central American accompaniment movements,
In other words, movements that were developed as a result
of dictatorships in Central America and the need to document
what happened to the people who were disappeared there. It
seeks to hold authorities accountable, shine a light on due
(17:12):
process violations and humanize an often opaque process. By being
physically present, court watchers are able to record ice actions,
the behavior of judges, and the broader courtroom culture, providing
invaluable data and public visibility that can mobilize change, reveal
systemic abuses, and strengthen advocacy efforts. For many volunteers, witnessing
(17:36):
unjust attentions firsthand transforms abstract knowledge of injustice into a
profound call to action. Importantly, participating in court watch, especially
for those with relative privilege, is still low risk, requiring
only the willingness to show up and bear witness. Volunteers
are trained, work in pairs, and contribute to a resilient
(18:00):
community network that can quickly spread vital information and intervene
by alerting loved ones or legal advocates when detentions occur.
This public oversight helps limit the impunity of federal agencies
and offers immediate support to individuals whose voices might otherwise
be silenced within the immigration system. Court watching is both
(18:20):
an active care for neighbors and a critical lesson in
how authoritarianism advances through fear, secrecy, and unchecked power. The
work happening in New York and replicable in cities nationwide.
Is both a frontline resistance to cruelty and a transformative
experience for participants, fueling a broader movement to defend democratic norms,
(18:42):
demand transparency, and protect the vulnerable from state violence.
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Bailable Frocklin,
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,
(00:27):
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
(00:49):
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
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 federal appeals court
(01:11):
has delivered a clear message attempts to use the Alien
Enemies Act as a weapon for mass deportations. Have no
place in modern American justice. The majority on the panel
ruled that President Trump lacked the authority to fast track
removals of Venezuelan migrants, rejecting claims that alleged gang activity
constituted the kind of national security crisis that centuries old
(01:33):
law was designed for. This ruling represents a pivotal moment
for those advocating for humane immigration policy and respect for
due process. Organizations like the ACLU, alongside immigrant communities, have
maintained that targeting entire populations under vague pretexts undermines basic
legal protections and threatens the basic fabric of American society.
(01:57):
Of you, the Court has just endorsed. The decision not
only blocks the administration from bypassing longstanding legal standards, but
also reinforces the need for policies rooted in facts and fairness,
not just fear tactics. Judges highlighted that even with modern challenges,
there is no justification to sidestep constitutional rights in the
(02:17):
name of expediency or executive power. While the fight may
continue in higher courts, this moment energizes those working toward
a more welcoming and just immigration system. The Court's stand
affirms that America's greatest strength lies not an exclusion, but
in the ongoing pursuit of justice and dignity for all,
no matter where they begin their journey. California's legislature has
(02:42):
moved decisively to protect immigrant families in the face of
ramped up federal deportation efforts. Lawmakers pass the Safe Act
SB ninety eight, requiring all K through twelve schools, state universities,
and community colleges to notify families, students, and SIP school
employees if immigration agents arrive on campus, mirroring procedures for
(03:05):
other campus emergencies. Progressive leaders champion the measure as an
urgent step to insure schools remain sanctuaries of learning, not fear.
Senator Sasha Renae Perez, the bill's author, stressed that clear
and immediate alerts empower families to make informed safety decisions
as children are turned to classrooms under the threat of
(03:25):
mass raids and detentions. The legislation responds directly to troubling incidents,
including a recent case where a Los Angeles student was
detained at gunpoint, and is part of a broader package
advancing immigrant rights across California. The bill has widespread support
from educators and advocates who argue that learning cannot occur
(03:46):
when communities live in constant anxiety about family separation. With
as many as thirty thousand immigrant students in Los Angeles
unified alone, officials and teachers have urged state lawmakers to
take a firm and compassionate stand against disruptions to student
safety and well being. Now on the desk of Governor
Gavin Newsom, the act is poised to take effect immediately
(04:08):
upon his signature and remain in force through twenty thirty one.
If signed, it will cement California's position as a national
leader in standing up for immigrant communities and send a
powerful signal that every student deserves the right to learn
without the shadow of deportation looming over their school. Before
we get back to the news, I want to tell
you about an important podcast called This Week Again, hosted
(04:33):
by Suzanne Posel. It takes a 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
(04:56):
the beginning. 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 USA, n n E pose E
L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat. More than twelve
(05:21):
thousand Stater Brothers union workers across southern California have ratified
a powerful new three year contract after months of determined
organizing and community solidarity. The agreement offers substantial wage increases,
a new supplemental pension plan for a secure retirement, and
ramped up healthcare benefits, including quicker eligibility for new hires.
(05:43):
Building on momentum from recent actions at other regional supermarket chains,
workers won vital language to protect jobs from subcontracting and
secured staffing guarantees, ensuring safer and more sustainable working conditions.
The new contract also gives frontline employees more say over
workplace safety in store operations, a major advance following high
(06:05):
stakes bargaining marked by widespread worker participation and assertive union action.
Union leaders highlighted that this contract marks the culmination of
unprecedented worker unity, turning up at rallies, organizing boycotts, and
resisting corporate intimidation. Their advocacy was central in achieving fair raises,
improved health coverage, and real retirement security after years of
(06:28):
economic headwinds in the grocery sector. State Brothers officials expressed
satisfaction with the deal, citing their ability to maintain affordable
prices for customers while investing in strong pay and benefits
for team members. With this ratification, nearly all major Southern
California grocery contracts are now settled, reflecting a wave of
(06:48):
progressive gains for frontline food workers across the region. Steffy Casimir,
a passionate medical student in Oakland, has launched a unique
little free pay dietary practice to provide essential footcare for
unhoused neighbors. Recognizing that healthy feet are crucial to daily
survival and dignity, Kasimir set up her pop up clinic
(07:11):
at local church run outreach events, offering everything from wound
cleanings to nail trimming and custom fitting for new sneakers
with supplies donated by supporters who learned about her work
on TikTok For people experiencing homelessness, Constant walking and ill
fitting shoes can lead to serious injuries and infections, and
(07:31):
Kasimir's intervention has proven life changing. Her practice not only
relieves immediate pain, but also prevents major complications like ulcers
and amputations, which often result from missed early care or
chronic conditions such as diabetes. Kasimir's outreach is sustained by
a network of volunteers and an online wish list, ensuring
(07:52):
that everyone she treats leaves with new hygiene kits, including socks, snacks,
and first aid items. After losing formal funding for supplies,
her efforts in California were supercharged by viral social media videos,
inspiring strangers to send needed items and keep the clinic
stocked for future pop ups. Beyond addressing urgent health needs,
(08:15):
Kasimir's regular presence offares companionship, support and education about foot care.
Her model demonstrates how simple grassroots action, specially led by
future health professionals, can dramatically improve comfort, mobility, and hope
for residents facing some of Oakland, California's toughest challenges up next,
(08:37):
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now
a listener suggested story from Bonnie. In Salt Lake City, Utah,
a new student loan program is reshaping out college financing
works by eliminating interest and fees through a pay it
forward model that supports low income students while building a
sustainable funding pool for future learners. Launched in initially at
(09:00):
the University of Hawaii Manoa's College of Engineering as the
Hawaii Renewable Learning Fund, this two point five million dollar
revolving loan fund offers tuition loans that students repay only
if they earn above a certain salary after graduation. All
repayments feedback into the fund, creating an ongoing cycle of support.
(09:21):
Students who earn less than fifty thousand dollars annually can
defer payments with zero monthly obligations, reducing financial pressure during
uncertain job prospects. Local employers partner with the fund by
assisting employees in loan repayment, aligning education financing with workforce needs,
and helping fill critical talent shortages in sectors like engineering,
(09:44):
health care, cybersecurity, and climate science. This innovative approach draws
on Hawaii's cultural tradition of kokua, or mutual help. Emphasizing
community investment over profit, Students appreciate knowing their repayments directly
aid the next X generation of learners, fostering a cycle
of gratitude and collective uplift rather than individual debt burdens.
(10:07):
Early successes are now inspiring similar pilot programs in states
like Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Florida, and San Diego,
signaling potential nationwide change in how higher education is funded.
Supporters see this model as a crucial proof of concept
in an era where nearly forty three million Americans carry
(10:29):
over one point seven trillion dollars in student debt, creating
barriers to education and economic mobility. By recycling funds and
eliminating interest, pay it forward loans could extend educational access equitably,
while also forging stronger connections between students, employers, and local economies,
turning tuition from a lifelong burden into a shared investment
(10:52):
in community prosperity. Thanks for that story, Bonnie. If you
have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we'd
love to hear from you. Call or message us at
two zero 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
(11:16):
new survey commissioned by Built and conducted by Talker Research
reveals that a broad majority of Americans now have a
positive view of affordable housing and are increasingly supportive of
policies to expand it in their communities, despite the persistent
narrative of nimbiism opposition to new developments in one's neighborhood.
The study finds sixty three percent of respondents view the
(11:39):
term affordable housing positively, with two thirds willing to live
in or next to affordable housing, and fifty three percent
welcoming conversions of existing buildings into such units. The survey,
which included one thousand adults balanced across political lines, reflects
the realities of America's housing crisis. The average person spends
(12:00):
forty two percent of their income on housing costs, with
nearly half attributing this burden to living in high cost areas.
This economic pressure is translating into broader support for housing solutions,
including sixty five percent of respondents who would back new
affordable housing developments in their neighborhoods forty five percent supportive
of converting surplus commercial buildings into homes and forty two
(12:23):
percent in favor of requiring affordable units in new developments. Interestingly,
eighty three percent of people view affordable housing more favorably
compared to other multi family housing options like town homes, apartments,
and mobile homes, suggesting a shift in perception, seeing affordable
housing as essential to sustaining communities rather than a detriment. Still,
(12:45):
the survey also highlights confusion around what affordable housing entails,
with misunderstandings about who it serves, some seeing it as
only for extremely low income or public housing, others as
a resource for broader demographics, including cens years, veterans, and
first time buyers. This growing consensus aligns with other recent
findings connecting the housing affordability crisis to increased homelessness and
(13:09):
economic insecurity across the nation. Advocates emphasize that affordable housing
is crucial to sustaining the American dream of home ownership
and community stability, calling for policymakers to focus efforts on
expanding affordable, inclusive, and quality housing options as a cornerstone
of stronger, fair communities for all Americans. That's a wrap
(13:34):
for today's edition of Good News for Lefties. Remember if
these stories brighten your outlook, please help us spread the
word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team roosabelt Hein and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm Beowulf Rockland,
(13:55):
weird name good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (14:16):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast.
Speaker 1 (14:21):
You don't have anybody who can really talk about the
wins at the party and the fights that the parties
engage in.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
And that is my big frustration with you.
Speaker 1 (14:30):
Trust me.
Speaker 2 (14:30):
You know how times I've said to the TV, why
do you have that idiot on? They're not the head
of the Democratic but Jamie Harrison is the chairman of
the Okay, anyway, you wrote a piece, and I say
this all the time, Chairman is just it's not about
where you are on the political spectrum. It's about fighters
or folders. And you wrote a whole piece about how
people want us to fight. I think it's what Gavin
(14:50):
Newsom is doing, what Governor Pritzker is doing. You said,
enthusiasm grows when you see a part when voter see
a party fighting and winning, and Democrats are doing both.
Fighting back on redistricting attacks, special election wins, constant gloom
both sides coverage and magnified democratic drama doesn't inspire turnout.
They smother it. And I just thought, especially coming from
an insider like you chair, the open letter to political
(15:13):
consultants was so dead on. You had a conversation with
Senator Gego. You said, we were talking about the challenge
of working with political consultants who don't only always understand
the lived experiences of candidates of color. We talked about
the importance of listening and learning from the communities we
want to serve. Just say a little more, because this
whole piece is brilliant. It's you were saying, people listen
(15:35):
to the one black friend they had from college and
think that qualifies them. I had that, and you said,
through that friendship, you gained the confidence believe you speak
authority about communities you don't belong to. Here's the problem.
One friend does not make you fluid in the lived
experience of millions of voters. Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller
Happy Our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stephanie Miller dot com,
(15:59):
or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (16:06):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
Immigration court watch programs are rapidly emerging as a powerful
grassroots response to the erosion of immigrant rights and growing
authoritarianism in the US. These initiatives, run by faith based
and secular coalitions, place volunteers in courtrooms and communities to observe, document,
(16:30):
and support immigrants facing detention and deportation. The presence of
volunteers does more than offer solidarity. It helps gather critical
information that can keep families informed and prevent individuals from
being disappeared by a system that now detains and removes
people in alarming numbers, often without criminal records or warning.
(16:52):
This collective witness strategy draws inspiration from Central American accompaniment movements,
In other words, movements that were developed as a result
of dictatorships in Central America and the need to document
what happened to the people who were disappeared there. It
seeks to hold authorities accountable, shine a light on due
(17:12):
process violations and humanize an often opaque process. By being
physically present, court watchers are able to record ice actions,
the behavior of judges, and the broader courtroom culture, providing
invaluable data and public visibility that can mobilize change, reveal
systemic abuses, and strengthen advocacy efforts. For many volunteers, witnessing
(17:36):
unjust attentions firsthand transforms abstract knowledge of injustice into a
profound call to action. Importantly, participating in court watch, especially
for those with relative privilege, is still low risk, requiring
only the willingness to show up and bear witness. Volunteers
are trained, work in pairs, and contribute to a resilient
(18:00):
community network that can quickly spread vital information and intervene
by alerting loved ones or legal advocates when detentions occur.
This public oversight helps limit the impunity of federal agencies
and offers immediate support to individuals whose voices might otherwise
be silenced within the immigration system. Court watching is both
(18:20):
an active care for neighbors and a critical lesson in
how authoritarianism advances through fear, secrecy, and unchecked power. The
work happening in New York and replicable in cities nationwide.
Is both a frontline resistance to cruelty and a transformative
experience for participants, fueling a broader movement to defend democratic norms,
(18:42):
demand transparency, and protect the vulnerable from state violence.
Popular Podcasts
NFL Daily with Gregg Rosenthal
Gregg Rosenthal and a rotating crew of elite NFL Media co-hosts, including Patrick Claybon, Colleen Wolfe, Steve Wyche, Nick Shook and Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic get you caught up daily on all the NFL news and analysis you need to be smarter and funnier than your friends.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com