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Boston Globe
a day ago
- Politics
- Boston Globe
250 years ago, religion played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. Today, clergy are resuming the fight
'All of us are deeply concerned about the preservation of democracy, because without democracy, faith cannot flourish,' said Reverend Fred Small, a community minister at Arlington Street Church in Boston. 'Christian nationalism is not a future that any of us embrace, although there are many — the majority of us — are Christians.' The group was specifically protesting the Trump administration's Advertisement Among all Christians, 51 percent disapproved of Trump's job as president in an April Advertisement The march drew inspiration from religious leaders' prominent involvement in the American Revolution and the Civil Rights movement, Lerner said. Specifically, the group called for legislative protections for vulnerable communities as the Trump administration intensifies its 'In our country, having people taken off the streets and no opportunity to defend themselves — that is not an America we have been working on for thousands of years,' Lerner said. In the American Revolution, parishioners across religious sects used scripture to 'Clergymen were using their churches to talk about how this struggle against Britain was not just a political battle over taxes and tariffs,' Lerner said. 'It was one they saw through a moral lens, a religious lens, a spiritual lens.' Churches in the South also played a Clergy drew On Friday, the group of clergy stopped several times along the 12-mile route, drawing more than 300 people throughout its march, said Rabbi David Lerner, senior rabbi at Temple Emunah. Some joined for a few miles while others committed to the long walk. Advertisement While resting in Cambridge, Small, who walked all 12-miles, said he was feeling the exhaustion. He has arthritis in one knee and was wearing a knee race under his black clerical suit. 'It is a trivial sacrifice that I'm making compared to people who are presently incarcerated in an ICE facility, or worse yet, a Gulag in El Salvador,' he said. Speakers at the march cited scripture in their speeches and said Trump's actions are antithetical to their religions. Small held a sign reading reading 'Welcome the stranger,' referencing Matthew 25:35. 'The reason we have separation of church and state is not that they should live in separate spheres, but we can do our thing — worship, have integrity — and have a moral voice and stand up for justice,' said Willie Barnett, a pastor at Great Road Church in Acton. Barnett said his participation in the march doesn't indicate partisanship, but having 'a moral voice for liberty.' Small said it was important to him to not only confine his religion to a place of worship but practice it in the world. 'Universally, all faith traditions call for justice — visiting the prisoner, comforting and uplifting those who are suffering,' he said. 'The current administration seems to preach and live a gospel of cruelty.' As the group walked toward the Longfellow Bridge to enter Boston, cars honked and people rolled down their windows, cheering. As the group approached Boston Common, rain started to drizzle. It gave way to the sun as about 100 people gathered in front of the Embrace statue, praying and listening to speeches. Advertisement Mariama White Hammond, the founding pastor of New Roots AME Church in Dorchester and former chief of energy, environment, and open space under Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, led the protesters in several songs. Barnett said the walk was encouraging. 'A lot of us as ministers right now can be discouraged about the state of the world and also what it means to lead our congregations in these times,' he said. 'There's a great community coming together, sharing experiences as we walk, and finding hope.' Emily Spatz can be reached at
Newsweek
a day ago
- Business
- Newsweek
The Workforce Crisis Threatening America's Economy
The U.S. lost its last remaining perfect credit rating earlier this month as Moody's elected to downgrade U.S. debt from AAA to AA1. Historically, these downgrades, first enacted by S&P in 2011 and then by Fitch in 2023, have had little material impact on the U.S. economy because of its size, and the sheer global demand for treasuries. However, they do serve as financial markets' town crier—highlighting issues that could affect the U.S. economy and further investment into it. Describing the reasons for their downgrades, S&P and Fitch cited "political brinkmanship" in the U.S. taking the form of "repeated debt-limit political standoffs and last-minute resolutions." But Moody's rationale was different. Instead of harping on politics, it pointed to two nonpartisan realities: rising entitlement spending and smaller government revenues to finance them. For many labor market experts, these findings are old news. The U.S. faces a growing shortfall of entrants to the labor force who can replace those retiring from it. For the past three years, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has downgraded its forecasts of total employment growth, citing an aging U.S. population and declining labor force participation. In fact, one study by Lightcast projected that U.S. population growth will outpace labor force growth by eight to one in 2032. This means there will be increased demand for government programs such as Social Security and Medicare, but fewer workers to fund them. Such trends have wreaked havoc on other countries. For example, France had 2.1 workers paying into its pension system for every retiree in 2000. In 2023, just 1.2 workers were supporting every retiree. When the government attempted to alter an unsustainable status quo by raising the age of retirement, it triggered severe protests throughout the country. France is not facing these dire straits alone. Between 2000 and 2022, the worker-to-retiree ratio for Europe has decreased from 4.9 to 2.9. In China and Japan, an aging population coupled with a shrinking labor force has drastically reduced economic activity over the past decade, forcing both nations to enact significant cutbacks in government spending. People affiliated with the 50501 movement march through downtown Detroit, Michigan on Saturday, April 19, 2025, to protest the Trump administration on the 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution. People affiliated with the 50501 movement march through downtown Detroit, Michigan on Saturday, April 19, 2025, to protest the Trump administration on the 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution. DOMINIC GWINN/Middle East Image/AFP/Getty Images Unlike its peers, the U.S. has yet to meaningfully address these issues due to its political paralysis. Reforming the entitlements system through Social Security and Medicare reform, increasing labor force participation by changing immigration policy, and even incentivizing companies to hire more workers by updating the tax code are considered near-insurmountable tasks for a Congress defined by partisan gridlock. Social Security was last reformed in 1983; immigration policy was last changed in 1986; and the tax code was last updated in 2017. With the federal government unlikely to address the shortfall of workers needed to sustain a growing demand for entitlements, it is no wonder the U.S.' creditworthiness is declining. But there are plenty of opportunities for improvement. As of April 2025, 7.2 million Americans are out of the labor force but would like to be employed, while 10.7 percent of young adults aged 16 to 24 are not in employment, education, or training programs. Many of them do not have the skillsets or training that employers are looking for, while others have a narrow view of careers that match their background and interests. To reduce the U.S. labor shortage, we can start by reaching out to this disaffected cohort of workers through workforce development programs, especially ones that include apprenticeships, that inform young adults of the careers they can pursue and skills they must develop to earn a respectable living. Workforce development does not hold the same political cachet as addressing entitlements, immigration policy, or the tax code. Nor is it a one-stop solution for fixing the U.S.' large fiscal imbalance. But it is a meaningful, attainable step towards accommodating increased entitlement demand by maximizing the number of taxpaying workers to fund it. And by ensuring every worker has the ability to actively participate in this economy, the U.S. can prove that it is capable of following through on the tougher steps ahead to correct its fiscal deficit. Noah Yosif is Chief Economist at the American Staffing Association. The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
New Iberia dedicates historical marker to Spanish founding fathers
NEW IBERIA, La. (KLFY) — hosted a dedication ceremony where they presented a historical marker in New Iberia, to pay tribute to the founding fathers who helped shape the United States into what it is today. Organizers say the location of the DAR marker is significant, because it is the place where a home was built by Dr. Leonard J. Smith in 1836. His nephew, Smith also lived in the home and planted the two oak trees when his first child was born. The trees are all that exist today. The community came together to honor three founding fathers, Francisco Segura, Gabriel Lopez and Juan Miguel. In addition, they honored the diverse cultures of the Spanish, French, Acadian, Anglo and Africans, who rallied behind Bernardo de Gálvez to fight the British during the American Revolution. One of the members of the daughters of the American Revolution, Susan Lissard, say the war played a huge part in America. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 'This mark commentates the Louisiana Patriots who contributed to the cause of America's freedom and who settled along the banks of the Bayou Teche right here on what would one day become New Iberia,' said Lissard. The New Iberia chapter of the daughters of the American Revolution are also celebrating 100 years of service, while the United States is celebrating 250 years since becoming a country. 'This is a diverse group and oftentimes they are left off and so in the end the diversity of them coming together, it shows that our history really consists of all of these people and the things that they did to provide for our independence,' said Lissard. Cat who survived 400-foot Utah canyon fall adopted by rescuing pilot Abbeville addresses weekend noise and safety complaints on St. Peter Avenue New Iberia dedicates historical marker to Spanish founding fathers Four arrested in connection to Opelousas homicide Accidental blaze damages two units at Meadows West Apartments Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
This Storybook Town Is In The Heart Of South Carolina's Horse Country—And It's Full Of History
Camden, South Carolina, is a small town with a long-standing legacy in all things equestrian. Known as the "Steeplechase Capital of the World,' Camden has hosted the Carolina Cup and the Colonial Cup at the Springdale Race Course since 1930 and 1970, respectively, marking the beginning and the ending of the annual National Steeplechase Association Season. The 8,400-person town is also home to the only U.S. museum dedicated to all things steeplechase. Camden's history goes beyond horses, though. If you're familiar with the events and timeline of the American Revolution, you may recall that Camden was a British stronghold during the war, and the location of two battles: the Battle of Camden and the Battle of Hobkirk Hill. Today, visitors can learn more about this time period at the Revolutionary War Visitors Center and Living History Park. Not to mention, there are more than 60 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places in Camden, South Carolina's oldest inland city. Whether you're curious about the region's past, attending one of the time-honored races, or looking for an easy day trip from Columbia (just a 40-minute drive away), read on to discover the best things to do in Camden, South Carolina. The Carolina Cup takes place every spring, attracting tens of thousands of visitors, outfitted in big hats and bright colors, to the Springdale Race Course and Training Center. In the fall, the Colonial Cup rounds out the season, with a holiday market, a best-dressed contest, and a food village—on top of the six championship races. While on the grounds, be sure to pop into the National Steeplechase Museum; entry is free, and the museum features various displays and exhibits touting the history of the sport. 200 Knights Hill Road, Camden, SC 29020 200 Knights Hill Road, Camden, SC 29020 Spanning six blocks, the Cultural District is where modern Camden meets the past. Visit the African American Cultural Center (open Fridays and Saturdays), admire the artwork inside Rutledge Street Gallery, catch a film at the Little Theater, see what's on at the Arts Center of Kershaw County, and shop Camden's 'Antique Street', where you'll find shops like Camden Antiques Market and Menagerie Antiques & Collectibles. When the South Carolina heat descends upon Camden—but you still want to spend time outside—getting out on the water is your best bet. With a kayak or canoe in tow, head out to the 3-mile paddling trail at Goodelle State Park. Keep a lookout for alligators and otters as you navigate through the cypress trees. 650 State Rd S-28-331, Camden, SC 29020 Camden's Revolutionary War Park will likely be the first thing on any history buff's to-do list. The 104-acre open-air museum features restored 18th and 19th century historic structures, blacksmith and brick-making demonstrations, a farm (with fields plouged by mule), and a reconstruction of a Revolutionary War-era fortification. 222 Broad St, Camden, SC 29020 Camden might be technically landlocked, but it's also just 20 minutes from Lake Wateree. Covering 13,000 acres and boasting over 200 miles of shoreline, the reservoir is a haven for anglers, boaters, sailors, and kayakers alike. If you're bringing your rod on the trip, there's a chance you'll catch some striped bass, black crappie, catfish, or largemouth bass. Start your morning in Camden at Books on Broad and Coffee—where, as the name suggests, you can pick up a coffee and the next addition to your TBR pile. You can even ask for a cup of King Bean coffee, roasted in nearby Charleston. The store also hosts the occasional book signing, so check the event calendar to see if one aligns with your visit. 944 Broad St, Camden, SC 29020 After a day of sightseeing, you may be in need of a hearty meal—and you'll certainly find that at B. Colson's Steak, Seafood & Bourbon. If you're into seafood, try the Boykin Po Boy or red snapper. If it's a well-cooked steak you're after, consider the Wateree Sirloin or Lord Camden Ribeye. 1105 Broad St, Camden, SC 29020 Camden doesn't have a thriving nightlife scene, but you can stop into Salud Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Lounge for dinner and a couple of margaritas. The menu has all of the classics—tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas—and the bar is well-stocked with tequilas, mezcals, and more. 1011 Broad St, Camden, SC 29020 When in Camden, it only makes sense to go to the Steeplechase Sports Bar & Grill. It's a casual spot, known for its beer selection, straightforward (but tasty) menu, and live music acts. Follow the Instagram account to see who's playing, and check the website for the restaurant's weekly specials. 1044 Broad St, Camden, SC 29020 While there are a variety of big-name hotels in nearby Columbia you could choose from—and a couple of chain hotels in Camden—you may be more inclined to stay somewhere like Old McCaskill's Farm, a 10-minute drive from downtown Camden. The bed and breakfast has four different rooms, and guests are welcome to a continental breakfast that can be taken in the country kitchen or on the porch overlooking the barn and pond. 377 Cantey Lane, Rembert, SC 29128 Read the original article on Southern Living
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Willmar, Minnesota Daughters of American Revolution chapter turns 100
May 28---- The is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Daughters of the American Revolution is a women's service organization that focuses on work in local communities to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism, according to There are 175,000 members in 3,000 chapters located across the country and around the world. There are 21 chapters in Minnesota. Any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution can join. "It can be a military person, or it actually could be community or public service," Willmar Chapter DAR Regent Stephanie Sjoberg told the West Central Tribune during an interview. "If if they gave supplies to the troops, and they're on a supply list, that would also be accepted. Or if they actually did protection for their town, or a surveyor of roads — that was all community service, so it would be considered public service, too." A reception for the Willmar chapter's 100th is planned from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 14, at the Kandiyohi County Historical Society, 610 Highway 71 N.E. in Willmar, with a program taking place at 2:15 p.m. Reservations are requested, but not required, via email or phone at or 320-894-3653, respectively. The first organizational meeting of the Willmar Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution took place Feb. 17, 1925, at the Willmar Public Library under the guidance of Organizing Regent Myrtle Lund Diffendorf, according to an October 1975 article in the "Daughters of the American Revolution" magazine. Charter membership was open for several months after that first meeting. Along with Diffendorf, other charter members included Lillian Cutter Benson, Alice Brown Branton, Madge G. Hahn, Dorrie Brown Handy, Helen E. Jenness, Josephine Fancher Jenness, Louise Branham Rodange, Jennie Brown Sherwood, Winifred Sherwood, Ethel M. Smith. Lila M. Spencer, Alice Thompson, Abbie Paddock and Edith Emery, according to an article celebrating the centennial of its founding in the Oct. 17, 1990, edition of the West Central Tribune. Cutter Benson was the longest-lived founding member of the Willmar chapter, dying in 2008 at the age of 107, according to Sjoberg. She is buried at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis. Sjoberg made sure that her Find A Grave website memorial was updated with her full obituary and noted that she was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She is listed as "Lilyan Martha 'Lillian' Cutter Benson" on the website. "That was kind of fun, just to actually update it so people, when they come across it, they would know right away that she was a DAR member," Sjoberg said. " ... Her nieces actually wrote a very nice obituary honoring the DAR chapter here." There are currently 25 members in the Willmar Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, ranging in age from 28 to 92. The chapter meets on the second Saturday of each month, but takes the winters off due to the number of members who are "snowbirds" and go south. Sjoberg explained that the chapter has a registrar who can assist with genealogy research for those interested in determining if they are a direct descendant of an American revolutionary, in order to become a member. Sjoberg also helps with the genealogy research as an assistant registrar. Potential members are asked for their birth certificates and those of their parents. Ideally, they can also provide birth certificates for their grandparents, but an obituary is also sufficient if the grandparents have died. Sjoberg did not know that she would qualify for membership until she had retired and started researching her own genealogy. She found out she was a direct descendant of a patriot revolutionary on her mother's side of the family. Her mother also became a member. She had always assumed her ancestors had immigrated to the United States during the 1800s, but her mother's great-grandmother was a descendant of Frederick Countryman, who was born to parents who immigrated in 1710 from the Palatine region of Germany. She also found out that her father is a direct descendant of people who immigrated in the 1600s. In the last couple of years, Sjoberg assisted one family with their genealogy and the Willmar Chapter of the DAR gained five new members from that family. Daughters of the American Revolution is strictly a nonpolitical, nonprofit service organization, Sjoberg said. "We do patriotic things. We do educational things. We like to do commemorative events. We do a lot with the veterans," she said. She noted the local chapter really promotes education and does a lot with local libraries, especially honoring Constitution Week. The chapter sets up informational tables at local events and festivals a couple of times per year. Chapters receive awards if they have 600 or more volunteer service hours per year, according to Sjoberg, who noted that all 21 chapters in Minnesota met that goal last year. Each year the Willmar chapter sponsors an American history essay contest for fifth- through eighth-grade students and the DAR Good Citizens Award for high school seniors. Local winners of the essay contest go on to compete at the state level and winners at the state level compete at the division level. Winners of the division level earn a trip to Washington, D.C., for the award ceremony. The winner of the Good Citizens Award is a student who possesses the qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism in their homes, schools and communities. A scholarship is awarded. A service project in 2023 by the Willmar chapter and three other chapters provided a grave marker for Cecile D. Evans Taylor, who served as an Army Nurse Corps member during World War I at Fort Snelling, Minnesota, from September of 1918 to August of 1919. Evans Taylor died in 1999 at the age of 103 and was buried at Evergreen Cemetery in Dover, Minnesota. An installation ceremony took place in September of 2023, with the American Legion erecting flags at the site and providing a firing squad. Through her research, Sjoberg knew that Evens Taylor was Scottish and she found a local bagpiper who played the national anthem at the ceremony. Retired from the U.S. Army, the bagpiper is married to the regent of the Rochester chapter. "That was kind of a fluke, too," Sjoberg said. " ... So, you know, if you have faith — it was like it was all really ordained from up above." Sjoberg explained how challenging it was to get a veteran's marker for Evans Taylor due to complications with obtaining her military records. The National Personnel Records Center could not find any records for her and a National Archives and Records Administration query revealed that the records were destroyed in a fire in 1973. Finally, the Military Women's Memorial was able to find a copy of her induction order and copies of her pay stubs, which were submitted to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for approval of a veteran's marker. "It was just really, really satisfying to have this whole group of people come together and do this for her," Sjoberg said.
