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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...


What Is a War Crime? And How Are War Criminals Prosecuted?

All war is devastating, but some acts cross the line. Here, we explore what constitutes war crimes—and whether Putin can...


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 the Electoral Count Act—and Why Did the House Vote to Reform It?

Updating the 135-year-old Electoral Count Act could help safeguard future presidential elections. Here’s how.

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 2023

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, we've rounded up 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...


How to Help the Families and Victims of the Uvalde School Shooting

Even if you don't live in Texas, you can still help the Uvalde community during this trying time. Here's how.

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These Volunteers Risked Their Lives to Save 2,000 Animals from War-Torn Ukraine

Amid constant danger, volunteers at a Ukraine pet shelter are making sure no animal is left behind.


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...


What Is a No-Fly Zone? And How Would It Change the War in Ukraine?

No-fly zones have been used sparingly in history—in Iraq, Bosnia, and Libya—and Ukraine is asking for one now.


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

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


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...