Progressive move at the Vatican, New York City Compost Collection, Dianne Feinstein, Shafik’s history-making inauguration featured in nothing else but Bwoglines!

Happening in the World: Pope Francis has sparked significant changes in the Catholic Church, allowing debates on once-taboo topics and encouraging shifts toward liberalization. A historic Vatican assembly now permits laypeople, including women, to attend and vote. This may signal the Pope’s commitment to address sensitive issues like celibacy, married priests, blessings for gay couples, sacraments for the divorced, and female deacons. (The New York Times)

Happening in the US: Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein, the longest-serving female senator in history, passed away at the age of 90. A dedicated advocate for liberal causes such as environmental protection and reproductive rights, Feinstein was known for her willingness to work across the aisle with Republicans. Her recent passing garnered tributes from political leaders, including President Biden and former Presidents Obama and Clinton, who recognized her as a trailblazer in civil rights and national security. (AP)

Happening in NYC: Starting Monday, the city’s compost collection program will commence in Brooklyn. Following this expansion, the service is now available to half of all New Yorkers. Residents are encouraged to set out food waste, yard waste, and food-soiled paper on recycling days, with brown bins available for order through October 13. The city plans to roll out compost collection in the Bronx and Staten Island next spring and in Manhattan by October 2024. (Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community: On October 4, 2023, Minouche Shafik will be formally inaugurated as Columbia’s 20th president. The Investiture ceremony will take place on Low Plaza, and people can join watch parties across Columbia’s campuses or tune into the livestream. Festivities will continue into the evening with DJ, dancing, and a closing show. President Shafik will also host inaugural symposia on climate change and human rights, and there will be various related events and programs in the weeks surrounding the inauguration. Check them out here.

The Awakening via Wikimedia Commons