Many members, in recent months, have repeatedly raised concerns and resolutions to leadership and specific pediatric sections. However, we often meet significant resistance and are told calling for a ceasefire is too divisive of a statement to make. Humanitarian groups and international organizations have consistently pushed for Israel to make stronger efforts to increase humanitarian assistance and prevent civilian casualties, as well as call for a ceasefire, but there is instead more targeting of civilians and humanitarian aid workers.  The International Court of Justice has pushed for Israel to take actions to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza. There has been, to date, little-to-no adherence to this ruling. Al-Shifa Hospital, the largest hospital in Gaza, was completely destroyed after an Israeli military operation. Humanitarian aid workers, of any nationality, are also not protected: 7 individuals from the World Central Kitchen were killed in an Israeli attack on their convoy after coordinating their movements with the Israeli military. The purported last safe place in Gaza, Rafah, is already being invaded by Israeli forces, killing dozens of civilians, including children, despite American and international warnings to halt the Israeli offensive in the enclave. The Academy has already released statements asking the United States government to consider the unique needs of Gazan children in conflict, and to refrain from putting children at risk of death. While commendable, we believe these aims will only be achieved by a permanent end to the ongoing violence.  We also note that in 2022, in the face of similar violence in the Ukraine, the Academy called for members to donate to UNICEF to care for Ukrainian children in the face of the Russian invasion, a push that has not occurred for the children affected by the Israel-Hamas war. The starvation rates that affect children in Gaza, has reached a catastrophic point, with 1.1 million civilians at risk of imminent famine. If war and siege continue, deaths will occur at an even more frequent rate. Our concern, as that of many members of the Academy, should be that of children who are at imminent risk of dying because of war. 

Parking permits and fines place an undo financial burden on SLCC students, especially for those who are already struggling financially. It is especially unjust in the sense that you are unable to appeal a ticket unless you pay the fine regardless if it is warranted with no room to defend yourself until after you are found guilty. Especially since SLCC holds the right to hold your transcripts and ability to graduate hostage unless you pay these fines. Not to mention that SLCC students are already spending thousands of dollars to simply attend classes and this nickeling and diming maneuver serves nothing but to further alienate and impoverish SLCC students. Additionally our campuses severely lack accessible parking spots for those who may struggle if forced to park further away. Please sign here or at https://sign.moveon.org/p/Bruinsunbooted

Scouting America has systematically failed to protect children at every turn. The Boy Scouts knew about predators in their ranks for a long, long time. A 2010 civil lawsuit revealed that the organization for years had tracked suspected and known abusers but didn't consistently report them. Even leadership from within the scouting organization have begged lawmakers and the public to act. In a press conference detailing the ways in which Scouting America is unsafe for kids, Michael Johnson, former Scouts' Head of Youth Protection, called the organization and its programs "high risk."  Yet, law enforcement and politicians have done little to support survivors and hold the organization accountable. And the consequences are devastating. Beyond the initial abuse, thousands of survivors have come forward and shared the impact of the abuse on their lives. From drug abuse to difficulty maintaining healthy relationships, victims of childhood sexual abuse may spend a lifetime healing from their trauma. NO child should ever have to go through this horror.  Scouting America, an organization meant to teach young people leadership and integrity, not only failed to protect these children but put them directly in harm's way. Add your name to demand that Congress investigate Scouting America NOW.

Nonprofit organizations that focus on youth development and issues are crucial because they provide essential support and resources to help young individuals grow, learn, and overcome challenges. We plan to expand and offer mentorship programs, educational opportunities, and guidance that can positively impact the lives of young people, shaping them into future leaders and contributing members of society. By addressing the specific needs of youth, we aspire to play a vital role in creating a better future for the next generation!

We have seen the harmful effects of chemicals like Roundup, which has been linked to cancer. Spraying herbicides near our water bodies will be detrimental to the entire ecosystem around the lakes, affecting both wildlife and human health.

As a community we need to recognize that this is a big problem. Dr. Hester has provided a safe and orderly environment for her students and staff for eight years. It is evidenced through her hard work how much she loves her school and the students. She’s always working and goes above and beyond for all stakeholders. She is able to call all students by name and takes a genuine interest in their success in the high school setting. The castle needs her to remain principal as she continues to lead us forward! 

Vanguard is the second largest asset manager in the world, managing almost $8 trillion on behalf of 50 million investors, including tens of millions of individuals saving for retirement. Asset management companies, like Vanguard, manage the investments and retirement savings of pensions, corporations, and everyday Americans like us. Given Vanguard’s size, how the company invests its funds has a big impact on whether or not we will reach global climate goals. And, for those of us who are Vanguard clients – anyone who has a pension, 401(k), or savings plan managed by Vanguard – these actions to address the climate crisis will impact our retirement goals and the safety of our (financial) future.  Unfortunately, Vanguard has been failing on climate: it is the biggest investor in fossil fuel companies and has among the worst records for holding companies accountable on their climate and sustainability impacts.  But that could change. Vanguard just announced a new CEO, Salim Ramji, who has an opportunity to steer the company in a new direction. It’s imperative that Vanguard focuses on responsibly managing the risks of climate change. To do that, Ramji needs to hear from us that we demand change.   It’s time to put Vanguard at the vanguard of its industry. Tell the company's new CEO to protect its clients’ investments – and our future – by taking action to combat the climate crisis.

There’s allot of Artist and entertainers that make it big in the industry. And there’s an overwhelming amount of those same people that say that their hometown didn’t support them on their climb. That will never be me. Over 10 years I’ve had the support of my classmates, family, friends, co-workers, church and neighbors. I’d like to think I have the support of my elected officials and City Board as well. I would love to tell the story of how the City of Kannapolis pulled resources together to bring an upscale comedy show to the city and it turned into a relationship that grew over years. That those that we voted to be in office see us, hear us and want us to excel. Those in power to open doors are doing just that and not gate keeping. Please join me in making this reality for our great city

There has been several accidents and deaths at the particular location. One of my childhood friends has been struck at this location. My older sister has been struck by vehicles there. Moreover,  a number of my childhood friends have been killed at that intersection.

I am passionately advocating for your support in joining a crucial campaign aimed at facilitating the relocation of polar bears from zoos back to their native Arctic regions. As someone deeply concerned about animal welfare and environmental conservation, I believe that this cause demands urgent attention and action. By joining this campaign, we have the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of these magnificent creatures. Relocating polar bears from zoos to Arctic regions will not only improve their quality of life but also contribute to the preservation of their species and the ecosystems they inhabit. It is essential that we prioritize the needs of these animals and take concrete steps to address the ethical and environmental implications of their captivity in unsuitable conditions. I urge you to lend your voice and support to this important cause. Together, we can raise awareness, mobilize action, and advocate for positive change that will benefit polar bears and future generations. Let us stand united in our commitment to ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future for these polar bears.

Why It Matters: 📚 Educational Impact: With over 10,000 students each semester, HCC plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our community. Faculty deserve a seat at the table in decision-making processes affecting student learning. 🤝 Unity for Progress: By standing in solidarity, we can ensure that administrative policies align with the best interests of faculty and students alike. 👩‍🏫 Teaching & Learning Conditions: We need your support to create an environment where both faculty and students can thrive, fostering excellence in education at HCC. Join Us in Fighting for a Brighter Future at Howard Community College!

If you believe that a community should have a voice and be heard, and that city council members should make the effort to reach out to their constituents so they can be reflective of their community’s desire then sign this petition. Signing this petition does not declare your wishes for flying the flags or removing the flags. It just sends a message to our elected council members that we expect them to make an effort to adequately reflect what each of their wards desire. This is especially important when a volunteer committee has a split recommendation to council on a sensitive topic. Please also note the  committee was only 6 people and made no effort to reach out to the public either. Sadly one member skipped almost all the meetings and discussions but did show up to vote for removing the flags at the final meeting