Continued Problems in the Middle East

For more than a year we have heard of continued troubles with governments, protests, civil war, and violations of human rights throughout the Middle East.  Whether it was the transitions of governments in Tunisia and Egypt, the death of Kaddafi in Libya, or now the brink of civil war in Syria, there seems to be no end in sight to the political, social, and economic unrest.

Below is a link to an interactive map from CNN which allows you to review the events of various Middle Eastern nations:

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2011/arab.unrest/index.html

Most recently we have been hearing constant reports from Syria.  For more than a year citizen protesters have been demanding improved economic conditions, protection of personal rights and political change.  Their demands include the removal of the President Bashar al-Assad.  As the conflict has escalated, both sides have committed many acts of violence against their opposition including kidnapping, torture and execution.  Unfortunately, many of the deaths or violence from the government has been committed against civilians.  To date the United Nations is claiming approximately 8,000 civilians have been killed during this conflict.  News reports are unable to confirm reports due to the Syrian government’s severe restrictions placed on journalists from around the world. 

Many members of the United Nations Security Council, including the United States, have been asking for the removal of President al-Assad.  Sadly, the entire United Nations has not been in agreement concerning the course of action.  Russia and China have been the dissenting votes of stronger action against the Syrian government until recently.  Over the weekend, a number of acts of violence including car bombings and a change to the proposal of action by the United Nations have loosened the Russian stance.

The United Nations has agreed to send former U.N. Secretary Kofi Annan into the region with other representatives to attempt to bring the groups together and end the violence and crimes against humanity.  While Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is please to see progress, she and others are not sure these actions will be enough to end the bloodshed.

How much do you know about the numerous events from the Middle East?  Do you think we should know more?  When do you think it is necessary for the United States to get involved?  And how should the United States be involved?

Women's History Month

March has been designated as Women’s History Month.  The Library of Congress, the Smithsonian Institution, the National Archives and Records Administration, the National Park Service and other government agencies have partnered in paying tribute to the past and present women who have done so much to shape and progress our world. 

This year’s theme is “Women’s Education – Women’s Empowerment”.  As we have talked in class, education is the key to all future success.  Whether it is developing a nation, building a community or empowering a group of people, with education anything is possible.  Without education life is not only difficult, but obstacles can be immoveable.  Education is the key to freedom from whatever holds you back.  This insight was not always so obvious. 

While women have always made significant contributions to our country, it is not surprising to me that as more women are entering and completing college that we are seeing more and more women in high profile positions.  This is the first generation with more women enrolled in college than men.  This is truly incredible when you consider social bias against higher education for women was dominant until the 1970’s.  Up through the 1970’s college majors and degrees were often limited to your gender, whether that be through actual college requirements or societal pressure.   Today, women are afforded the same opportunities as men. 

Much of the progress can be attributed to Title IX legislation.  Title IX prohibits gender discrimination by any institute receiving federal funds.  Title IX provides equal access to education, facilities, and scholarships to women.  In addition to academics, women’s participation in athletics has increase by 900% in high school and 450% in collegiate activities.  The impact has been incredible. 

What women stand out to you as making significant contributions to our country and why?  What do you think of Title IX and its impact?  In your lifetime, what “firsts” do you think you will see from women?

Dr. Seuss's Birthday

March 2^nd marks the anniversary of Dr. Seuss’s birthday.  While it may seem trivial to celebrate an author of children’s books, it is hard to imagine what life would be like without the influence of The Cat in the Hat or Green Eggs and Ham.

Now that you are older I can imagine you may have lost an appreciation for the genius of Dr. Seuss and his work.  But as you watch the number of first graders and kindergarteners walking around looking like Thing 1 and Thing 2, it is difficult to deny the cultural and educational impact his work has had on society.

In addition to celebrating his birthday, this year they are releasing a movie “The Lorax”.  While it seems like a simple, enjoyable children’s story, it is also a political and social statement by Dr. Seuss concerning the over industrialization of our world and the fear of losing our natural resources.  Dr. Seuss often used his stories to not only entertain and engage children in reading, but provide insight into the world for the parents reading the books.  One of the most gifted books at high school graduation is “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”  It’s not so subtle message about how to live your life, through the good times and the bad is extremely relevant to people entering into new phases of their lives.

Did you read or were you read Dr. Seuss stories when you were a child?  If so, what is your favorite and why?  What do you think about the younger kids at school celebrating his birthday?