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As your trusted friend, we’re here with the “Reader’s Digest version” of social issues that impact the world around you. From gun violence statistics to the history behind the black power fist, and how to be an LGBTQ ally, our explainers will break it all down.

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I Stopped Hiding My Disability, and It Opened Up New Worlds

Everyone is hiding something—but embracing that secret part of yourself can change everything


What Does Bussin Mean—and 9 Other Words in the Brand-New African American English Dictionary?

There’s a new dictionary in town, and it’s about to give you a better understanding of the words you...


I’m a Drag Queen—Here’s What Really Happens at a Drag Queen Story Hour

Instead of fearing the unknown, learn what drag queen story hour is really all about


There’s a Pasta Crisis In Italy—Will Prices Be Affected in the U.S.?

In Italy, the pasta crisis is so bad that the government called a special meeting to address skyrocketing prices, up...

What Does AANHPI Mean? A Proud Asian American Explains

I love my uniquely Chinese Korean American cultural identity, but I'm also happy to embrace being an AANHPI. Here's why.


One Year Later: How Will the Ukraine War End?

One year into the Russia-Ukraine war, are we any closer to peace? Experts break down the possible outcomes of this...

The War on Women’s Rights: Why It’s More Dangerous Than Ever, and the Best Ways to Fight...

Women still aren't guaranteed equal rights under the U.S. Constitution. In the words of Zakiya Thomas, president and CEO of...


Why Better Mental Health Care Won’t Stop Mass Shootings, According to a Psychiatrist

Everyone deserves access to the mental health care they need, but that wouldn't mean the end of gun violence


What Is Environmental Racism, and How Can We Fight It?

Environmental racism isn’t a new problem, but it often flies under the radar—with disastrous consequences. Here, experts explain what it...


What Are Red Flag Laws—and How Can They Save Lives?

Red flag laws are becoming more popular, but their success lies in how well they are understood and carried out

11 LGBTQ+ Charities to Support All Year Long

Whether you're a member of the LGBTQ community or an ally, consider donating to or volunteering with an LGBTQ charity...


15 Podcasts from LGBTQ+ Creators to Add to Your List

Covering everything from history and politics to pop culture, LGBTQ podcasts are as diverse as the queer community.


Companies Are Trying to Cash In on Juneteenth. Here’s Why That’s a Problem

Big brands are trying to profit off Juneteenth, but that's not what the holiday is about.


What Are Commonsense Gun Laws—and How Can They Save Lives?

What kind of commonsense gun laws would help stem the tide of gun violence while also respecting the rights of...


How to Help with Gun Control: 12 Things You Can Do Now to Stop Gun Violence

Recent mass shootings have galvanized people who support gun control legislation. Here's how to turn your concern into concrete actions.

As an Immigrant, This Is What the 4th of July Means to Me

For many U.S. immigrants, the 4th of July is a day to reflect on what America stands for, recommit to...


15 Asian American and Pacific Islander Podcasts You Need to Listen To

From comedy to cooking, these Asian American and Pacific Islander podcasts give voice to authentic stories that go beyond the...


10 Ways to Celebrate and Commemorate Juneteenth in 2024

Honor the holiday's true meaning with a Juneteenth celebration that focuses on reflection, education and the joy of liberation


29 LGBTQ-Owned Businesses to Support During Pride Month and All Year Long

From queer-centered bookshops to gender-diverse apparel, these are some excellent LGBTQ-owned businesses to shop throughout the year


What Are Midterm Elections—and Why Are They So Important?

Historically, midterm elections have low turnout, but they may determine the fate of key issues this year


What Is White Replacement Theory—and How Is It Fueling Racist Attacks?

Another mass murder targeting minorities thrust "White Replacement Theory" into the American consciousness. Here, we explain this racist ideology—and why...


What Overturning Roe v. Wade Could Mean for the United States

What could the end of Roe v. Wade mean for women's health, civil rights, and American politics?


How to Help Ukraine Right Now

After Russia’s recent military invasion, Ukraine’s residents are in need of aid. Here are some quick and effective ways to...


Is the Pandemic Over? Here’s What the Experts Say

Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, and there's reason for hope.

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Women of Ukraine Fight Back: How They’re Revolutionizing the Role of Women in War

The Ukrainian women who opted to stay in the country during the Russian invasion have taken on a variety of...


The Complicated Ukraine-Russia War, Explained in Simple Terms

As war erupted in Ukraine, many people wondered how things got to this point. Here, we break down Russia and...


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What Is Book Banning, and How Does It Affect Society?

The United States has a long history of book banning, and it’s not only picking up steam—it’s also becoming more...


Why Do Supreme Court Justices Serve for Life?

It's a question many have about the U.S.'s highest court—and the rationale dates back to America's founding.


What Is Critical Race Theory, and Why Is It Important to Understand?

Critical Race Theory has been alternately criticized and celebrated, but do you actually know what it is? Here, experts define...


8 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch Coronavirus

Nope, the pandemic isn't over. Here are the places where experts say you're most likely to catch COVID-19.