Another semester, another strike?

Happening in the World: Yesterday, Russian forces pounded Ukrainian cities with multiple strikes, including one that obliterated a Kyiv shopping mall in one of the most powerful explosions to hit the capital city. In addition to this destruction, Russian forces continued to aim artillery, rockets, and bombs at other civilian and military targets throughout the country. Meanwhile, the United States and its allies held consultations yesterday on how to increase pressure on Russia, ahead of meeting with NATO leaders tomorrow. (NYT)

Happening in the US: On Monday, US Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson delivered her opening statement before the Senate Judiciary Committee, speaking of her commitment to neutrality when applying the law. Chuck Grassley, the Republican ranking member on the Judiciary Committee, promised a respectful process but stated that his colleagues would be looking into whether Judge Jackson had imposed partisanship from the bench. Judge Jackson currently serves on the US Court of Appeals for the DC circuit, and if confirmed by the Senate, Judge Jackson will become the first Black female justice named to the Supreme Court. (BBC)

Happening in NYC: Yesterday, Brooklyn Assemblymember Latrice Walker threatened a hunger strike in response to Governor Hochul’s plans to bolster public safety and roll back New York’s 2019 cash bail reform laws. Assemblymember Walker of Brooklyn, one of the architects of the 2019 cash bail reform laws, cited the importance of fighting for one’s rights as a pretext for her potential hunger strike. Governor Hochul’s new plan includes legislative changes to judge’s discretion to set bail for defendants that are possibly dangerous or who have committed multiple crimes in an 18-month period. These measures put her in line with moderate Democrats like Mayor Eric Adams while attracting opposition from progressive lawmakers and activists. (Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community:  Today from 6:30 to 8 pm, Barnard will be hosting the discussion “The Urgency of Water: Women, Climate, and Sustaining the World” in the Event Oval of the Diana Center in honor of World Water Day. The event will feature a conversation between Barnard President Sian Beilock and environmental journalist and author Cynthia Barnett concerning the urgency of water and the continuing crises of access and pollution.

Empty Plates at Empty Tables via Bwog Archives