# articles

feed_id: 03053ad84b434e2f35548caefe39919c
title: Vaccination certificate exaggeration
uri: 2021-08-09-Vaccination-certificate-exaggeration
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Vaccination_certificate_exaggeration%29

content:
<p>

Boston's Mayor Janey <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/04/politics/boston-mayor-covid-19-vaccine-documents/index.html">endorsed the exaggeration</a> that compares
vaccination certificates to the manumission certificates that freed
slaves in the US needed to show to prove they were not slaves.
<p>
In the US, stores check a buyer's ID before selling alcohol.
Does Janey say this is the same as slavery?
<p>
The real issues I know of regarding checking vaccination
certificates are

<ul>
<li>
Making sure people don't need to own or use a mobile phone
to enter a place.

<li>
Making sure not to let the state (or businesses) track people's
movements and activities through this system.

<li>
Taking care not to exclude those who for medical reasons
cannot be vaccinated.
</ul>


feed_id: 453e42044d8ef33ba9df232ff2c87a15
title: Haiti requests U.N. commission
uri: Haiti-requests-U-N-commission
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Haiti_requests_U.N._commission%29
content:
<p>

*Haiti requests U.N. commission to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-haiti-president/haiti-requests-u-n-commission-to-probe-presidents-killing-idUSKBN2F62UL">probe president's killing</a>.*


feed_id: 55074b3255f1b49710152988133aa9a0
title: Money laundering laws
uri: 2021-08-09-Money-laundering-laws
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Money_laundering_laws%29
content:
<p>

Rich countries pushed the other countries to pass new laws to fight
money-laundering, but several governments have distorted this into a way
of <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-finance-fatf-consequences-specialrepo/special-report-how-a-little-known-g7-task-force-unwittingly-helps-governments-target-critics-idUSKBN2F616Z">punishing critics and dissidents</a>.


feed_id: 5c894731bcfd23aef056704126e9bee1
title: US last in health care
uri: US-last-in-health-care
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28US_last_in_health_care%29
content:
<p>

*US <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/05/us-healthcare-system-ranks-last-11-wealthiest-countries">ranks last in healthcare</a> among 11 wealthiest countries despite
spending most.*


feed_id: 3550c64b06b5fb1db83d6da535af7b3a
title: Russian opposition activist
uri: Russian-opposition-activist
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Russian_opposition_activist%29
content:
<p>

*Russian opposition activist to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-russia-politics-activist/russian-opposition-activist-to-run-for-parliament-from-jail-idUSKBN2F62BY">run for parliament from jail</a>.*


feed_id: 3e9ebc94b107197e79ca506245a641d4
title: Tigray's conquering
uri: Tigray-s-conquering
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Tigray%27s_conquering%29
content:
<p>

Tigray seems to be <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ethiopia-conflict/tigrayan-forces-take-control-of-ethiopias-lalibela-a-un-world-heritage-site-eyewitnesses-idUSKBN2F621C">conquering substantial parts</a> of other regions of Ethiopia,
and the opposition to this seems to be ineffective.
<p>
I am very curious about the explanation for Tigray's military success.


feed_id: a89955b4e415c46aef9b9b9d7287de09
title: Gulf Stream
uri: 2021-08-09-Gulf-Stream
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Gulf_Stream%29
content:
<p>

The Gulf stream is <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-oceans/atlantic-ocean-currents-weaken-signalling-big-weather-changes-study-idUSKBN2F620T">starting to weaken</a>.  Further global heating, which we cannot now avoid, could cause it to shut down.  This would make the US east coast
and the Atlantic coast of Britain, Ireland and France considerably colder.


feed_id: 2efa802ad28446b02eed603e43be8979
title: Government tracking of car travel
uri: Government-tracking-of-car-travel
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Government_tracking_of_car_travel%29

content:
<p>

The bipartisan "compromise" infrastructure bill proposes to have the
government <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/05/infrastructure-bill-travel-data-cars-privacy/">track all car travel</a>.
<p>
Regardless of the purpose, tracking people's movements as the method
is unjust.  But the purpose stinks, too.  The stated purpose is to tax
cars based on the distance they travel, rather than the amount of fuel
they use.  Who would prefer that?
<p>
Fossil fuel companies would prefer that.  I suspect this is really
is meant to hamper emissions reduction.
<p>
There are other things in the bill that <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/03/bipartisan-infrastructure-bill-doubling-down-support-carbon-polluters-25-billion">subsidize fossil fuels</a>.
<p>
If you think of this as "infrastructure construction", but might appear
that a smaller amount is better than none at all.  But with these harmful
measures, the bill can be worse than none at all.


feed_id: bf2c9df90c923502c5820c00134555c5
title: Dixie, California
uri: Dixie-California
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Dixie%2C_California%29
content:
<p>

A wildfire <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/05/california-dixie-fire-greenville">destroyed</a> the historic old town of Dixie, California.


feed_id: 0c2fe6349e2fd1ee54c58b116507e0c9
title: Bottled water
uri: 2021-08-09-Bottled-water
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#5_August_2021_%28Bottled_water%29
content:
<p>

Bottled water is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/05/environmental-impact-of-bottled-water-up-to-3500-times-greater-than-tap-water">enormously wasteful</a>.  In resource use and in environmental harm, it's a factor of thousands.
<p>
France has a law that restaurant must offer customers tap water.  A
law like this makes it a lot easier to shun bottled water in restaurants.
Other countries should adopt it.


feed_id: 48326917f4d620d3b44a69ad31af1168
title: Republican wrongs
uri: 2021-08-09-Republican-wrongs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#5_August_2021_%28Republican_wrongs%29
content:
<p>

Nearly all Republicans in Congress are working together to boost the
wrecker's <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/05/us-capitol-attack-republicans-trump-fallout">backwards version of history</a>, in which all Republican wrongs
are attributed to their opponents.


feed_id: f6182f708439aa16bce21a256edf63ae
title: Wars and gas emissions
uri: Wars-and-gas-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Wars_and_gas_emissions%29
content:
<p>
If the US continues fighting wars around the world, they can kill a large
fraction of humanity <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/05/pentagon-killing-us-and-planet">through their greenhouse gas emissions alone</a>.


feed_id: be600695449f14d22a75a08a42a01c99
title: Nina Turner
uri: 2021-08-09-Nina-Turner
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Nina_Turner%29
content:
<p>
Nina Turner <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/04/conceding-defeat-ohio-special-election-nina-turner-says-our-justice-journey">was defeated by a plutocratist Democrat</a>
   who was backed
with endorsements from other plutocratist Democrats, plus lots of
money from plutocrats, and some lies.

<p>
I hope Turner will try again in 2022.


feed_id: 35e7b889ff330f94bd8f576dbee28740
title: Migrant prison
uri: Migrant-prison
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Migrant_prison%29
content:
<p>
Diane Abbott, Labour MP: *I visited the migrant [prison] in
Dover.  <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/04/migrant-detention-centre-dover-holding-facility-channel">What I saw was unacceptable</a>.*

<p>
It's not as bad as what the wrecker did in the US, but that's no
standard to judge by.


feed_id: a888dabe022a61f6783c677d00460997
title: Refusing to wear a mask
uri: Refusing-to-wear-a-mask
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Refusing_to_wear_a_mask%29
content:
<p>
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra fired flutist Emily Skala, partly
because she advocated right-wing politics, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/04/baltimore-symphony-orchestra-flutist-fired">but also because she
refused to wear a mask</a>.

<p>
Wearing a mask is an important safety precaution, and firing people
for refusing to do that is entirely justified.  They should have
offered her some other way to hand in her tax document, but I don't
think she could have done her job without wearing a mask.

<p>
What she <em>said</em> is another issue.  I disagree completely with her
views, and I condemn her reported bigotry.  However, it is harmful to
society for employers to impose political limits on what employees say
outside of work, unless their job is to speak for the organization.
We see an increased tendency to restrict employees' political
expression.  This does not violate the First Amendment, but freedom of
expression goes beyond the First Amendment.  Restricting employees'
freedom of expression makes society less free.


feed_id: 960f507133b63c0e0e31cf07a0e41179
title: End date for oil and gas exploration
uri: End-date-for-oil-and-gas-exploration
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28End_date_for_oil_and_gas_exploration%29

content:
<p>
*Labour calls for <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/aug/04/labour-calls-for-hard-edged-end-date-for-oil-and-gas-exploration">‘hard-edged’ end date for oil and gas exploration</a>.*

<p>
That date should be last year, if not today.


feed_id: a58a0cd4eb7492a2c3ea3866a0880b3f
title: Research used for repression
uri: Research-used-for-repression
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Research_used_for_repression%29
content:
<p>
Research on comparative genetics of various ethnic groups in Xinjiang
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/04/dna-profiling-forensic-genetics-journal-resignations-china/">could be used by China for repression</a>.


feed_id: 8a595526c92fd65e9bd13f94c3418290
title: Vulnerable to flooding
uri: Vulnerable-to-flooding
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Vulnerable_to_flooding%29
content:
<p>
*Millions more people <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/04/millions-more-vulnerable-flooding-next-decade-study">vulnerable to flooding in next decade</a>, study shows.*


feed_id: 742db780b646a939e8aeb9d6121a1641
title: Discrimination in employment
uri: Discrimination-in-employment
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Discrimination_in_employment%29
content:
<p>
Discrimination in employment against blacks and other minorities
operates on job applications sight-unseen: employers reject them
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/04/name-racial-discrimination-britain-racism-law">because the applicant's name sounds like a black</a>.

<p>
This article reports on the UK situation, but I expect it is the same
in the US.

<p>
I wonder if it is possible to do something about this by preventing
the application from showing the applicant's race.  But would that
make a real difference in who gets hired, or would it only postpone
application of the bias?

<p>
There is evidence of applying bias against women in a similar way.


feed_id: 59992bdd507b2e7207c74d6cb68e483b
title: Delta variant
uri: 2021-08-09-Delta-variant
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Delta_variant%29
content:
<p>
China is finding that the Delta variant <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/04/with-the-delta-variant-spreading-is-chinas-zero-tolerance-covid-approach-over">is too transmissible to eradicate
with the strict lockdown measures</a>
  that were successful in the past.  This is the same as what Australia
is experiencing.

<p>
Some of the people quoted in the article assume that this will remain
the case even after nearly everyone is vaccinated; but that does not
follow.  Transmission between vaccinated people does occur, but the
R-value will be less.


feed_id: cb8f7665e2b45b9947c6f92abcc66efe
title: Making unvaccinated pay for tests
uri: Making-unvaccinated-pay-for-tests
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Making_unvaccinated_pay_for_tests%29

content:
<p>
Germany will make the unvaccinated pay to get Covid tests so as to
enter restaurants <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/04/tight-restrictions-planned-for-unjabbed-germans-to-avert-new-covid-wave">and other dangerous sites for transmission</a>.

<p>
I think this is justified, provided it does not become a system of
tracking the movements of vaccinated people.

<p>
Moreover, I agree with Mr Holetschek: the system must not charge for
Covid tests for the people who for medical reasons cannot be
vaccinated.  It would be absurd to punish people for doing something
that they must not do.


feed_id: e54b9aaaacc125edb4b8895c70ba5ebf
title: Visas for reporters
uri: Visas-for-reporters
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Visas_for_reporters%29
content:
<p>
Western news outlets call on governments to give visas to the reporters
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/04/open-letter-warns-of-brutal-taliban-reprisals-against-afghan-reporters">that are likely to be killed by the Taliban</a>.

<p>
It is the least we can do.


feed_id: eac7d018f6d55ecd65355e4e6af82bd2
title: Observing election
uri: Observing-election
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Observing_election%29
content:
<p>
The OSCE says that Russia won't allow it to properly observe the coming
election, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-russia-osce/osce-says-it-will-not-send-observers-to-russian-election-idUSKBN2F520X">so it will not try</a>.


feed_id: f22949e88070d02b78aa9e3931264fed
title: Suing gun manufacturers
uri: Suing-gun-manufacturers
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Suing_gun_manufacturers%29
content:
<p>
Mexico is suing US gun manufacturers, claiming that they marketed guns
to the market of people <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-mexico-arms/mexico-sues-reckless-u-s-gun-makers-eyes-10-billion-in-damages-idUSKBN2F51W0">who would smuggle them into Mexico</a>.


feed_id: 6066a0c98979e9b58da981673d264857
title: Booster vaccination
uri: Booster-vaccination
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Booster_vaccination%29
content:
<p>
Giving some old people in rich countries a third, booster vaccination shot
may be bad for everyone <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-health-coronavirus-who/who-calls-for-halting-covid-19-vaccine-boosters-in-favor-of-unvaccinated-idUSKBN2F51L7">if it slows down the vaccination of everyone else</a>.
  It could encourage the evolution of another strain that might resist
the vaccine.

<p>
That danger exists when there are lots of vaccinated people and lots
of unvaccinated people.  To eliminate it, we need to vaccinate everyone as
fast as we can.

<p>
That requires doing everything possible to increase production.  The
first step is to eliminate the patent obstacles.


feed_id: ca5dc754936066dbbc07f12c9386510e
title: Disinformation
uri: 2021-08-09-Disinformation
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Disinformation%29
content:
<p>
Disinformation in the DR Congo is convincing many <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/05/covid-only-kills-white-people-myths-and-fear-hinder-jabs-in-drc-congo">to leave themselves
vulnerable to Covid-19</a>.


feed_id: 29dc1e0d278870255c8d9e79df6f07de
title: Urgent: Oil and gas leases on public lands
uri: Urgent-Oil-and-gas-leases-on-public-lands
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Oil_and_gas_leases_on_public_lands%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: tell Biden to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-pres-biden-no-new-oil-and-gas-leases-on-public-lands-and-waters">stop issuing new oil and gas leases</a> on
public lands and waters.
<p>
We need to stop them on private lands and waters, too, but the president
cannot do that by executive order.

<p>The White House comments line is 202-456-1111.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: acbaed17061b02f5ecb689c19276675b
title: Urgent: Private equity
uri: Urgent-Private-equity
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Private_equity%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/joint-action-demand-congress-stop-wall-street-predatory-capitalism">stop the predatory capitalism of
private equity</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: 5787cd775d54fb696f0a5101e6bd0f74
title: Urgent: Amazon's rigged union-busting election
uri: Urgent-Amazon-s-rigged-union-busting-election
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Amazon%27s_rigged_union-busting_election%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on the NLRB to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-the-nlrb-overturn-amazons-rigged-union-busting-election-and-give-amazon-workers-a-fair-shot-at-a-union">overturn Amazon's rigged
union-busting election</a>.


feed_id: 7370013af0f2677bf6d9d082ed137fe2
title: Harsh sentences
uri: Harsh-sentences
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Harsh_sentences%29
content:
<p>

UK courts gave <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/aug/01/courts-failed-people-caught-up-in-uk-riots-in-2011-says-ex-chief-prosecutor">especially harsh sentences</a> to people charged with minor crimes during the 2011 riots, compared with people charged with similar crimes
before and after.


feed_id: eef9b01089f0ad2668ad14cf05dd1cf9
title: Vaccine production capacity
uri: Vaccine-production-capacity
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Vaccine_production_capacity%29
content:
<p>

It takes time to build vaccine production capacity &mdash; so countries
should have pushed it in 2020.  But vaccine companies have been
standing in the way.
<p>
Here are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/04/if-vaccine-resistant-covid-strain-develops-will-dr-fauci-pay-any-price">practical proposals</a> for how to sweep away the obstacles to increasing
the production of the most effective Covid-19 vaccines.
<p>
I support all these recommendations, but I urge people not to use the
term "open source" to describe this, because it doesn't fit.  The
trade secrets that need to be published are not source code.  A
vaccine is not software; it is not made from "source code".  There is
no source code involved.
<p>
<a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/open-source-misses-the-point.html">"Open source software"</a> was coined as an amoral substitute for the idea
of "free software". This distortion of the idea was harmful.  Applying that term to
things that don't even have source code is a gratuitous further
distortion, that would be harmful again.


feed_id: c4d2bc0697d1d626dafc08f0ed19ac8c
title: David Lidstone
uri: David-Lidstone
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28David_Lidstone%29
content:
<p>

David Lidstone wants to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/aug/04/off-grid-man-jailed-refuse-vacate-new-hampshire-cabin">live out his life as a hermit</a> in a cabin in
the woods of New Hampshire, bothering nobody.  He is up against the
weight of the state government, which has put him in jail.
<p>
If a lot of people tried to live in those woods, it would cause
unacceptable environmental damage, and it would be necessary to stop
them.  However, given that it is just one person, who probably won't
live another two decades, there is no need to fuss.
<p>
As for the landowner, surely he can give Lidstone a lifetime lease
for the area around his cabin.


feed_id: ac70bd0686ade1570c1d4973545a3703
title: (satire) Juilliard Business School
uri: (satire)-Juilliard-Business-School
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Juilliard_Business_School%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *Juilliard <a href="https://www.theonion.com/juilliard-opens-business-school-for-students-who-realiz-1847423020">Opens Business School</a> For Students Who Realize Acting Thing
Probably A Long Shot.*


feed_id: 733f39a8ad032632bb7d71e450345b59
title: Fees for greenhouse gases
uri: Fees-for-greenhouse-gases
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Fees_for_greenhouse_gases%29
content:
<p>

A Senate bill would <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/04/polluters-should-pay-draft-bill-could-raise-half-trillion-big-oils-climate-wreckers">impose large fees</a> on companies that emitted lots of
greenhouse gases from 2000 to 3019.
<p>
If I take those words seriously, it would not apply to the fossil fuel
companies that supplied the fuel, but rather to the companies that used
lots of the fuel.  I am not sure that is wise.


feed_id: 5ade4f5a531e9f2b05aa02f9119a2909
title: Support of mask mandates
uri: Support-of-mask-mandates
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Support_of_mask_mandates%29
content:
<p>

*More Than Two-Thirds of US Adults <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/04/more-two-thirds-us-adults-support-mask-mandates-variants-spread">Support Mask Mandates</a> as Variants Spread.*


feed_id: 097c1ebb8a3f1ea692013a01e7ac85f2
title: (satire) Falsehoods about Delta variant
uri: (satire)-Falsehoods-about-Delta-variant
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Falsehoods_about_Delta_variant%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *Study Finds Falsehoods About Delta Variant <a href="https://www.theonion.com/study-finds-falsehoods-about-delta-variant-may-spread-t-1847422010">May Spread Twice
As Easily</a> As Original Covid Misinformation.*


feed_id: 0d15dc88537d70368578df6b84023f71
title: Son of President Moise
uri: Son-of-President-Moise
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Son_of_President_Moise%29
content:
<p>

The son of assassinated President Moise <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-haiti-president-timeline/one-month-after-haitian-president-slain-painful-confusion-prevails-idUSKBN2F80O7">distrusts all official statements</a> about who was responsible.


feed_id: 3920cfb76b25d4436925f89e484d14cb
title: Threat of assassination
uri: Threat-of-assassination
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Threat_of_assassination%29
content:
<p>

Pakistani exiles who have criticized the power and brutality of
Pakistan's army <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/07/dissident-pakistani-exiles-in-uk-on-hit-list">face a threat of assassination</a>.


feed_id: f828b6b84dea80e99f714eb112adb012
title: Golden-shouldered parrots
uri: Golden-shouldered-parrots
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Golden-shouldered_parrots%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/08/we-are-going-to-lose-these-birds-the-quiet-fight-to-save-the-golden-shouldered-parrot">Protecting the last few wild golden-shouldered parrots</a> by putting a small piece of Australian land back as it used to be.
<p>
This is admirable, but I think it will require continual human effort to 
keep that land in its retrotransformed state.  The climate crisis could
put an end to that.


feed_id: 248f7f76e28175eae9bcb5e36742a79a
title: Athens wildfires
uri: Athens-wildfires
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Athens_wildfires%29
content:
<p>

The combustion of so many trees near Athens in the past week's
enormous wildfires will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/07/apocalyptic-scenes-hit-greece-as-athens-besieged-by-fire">cause persistent problems</a>: when it does rain,
the water will run off and cause floods.
<p>
People tend to focus on the short term and ignore the long term.  Now,
"mitigation", coping with the consequences of <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> for the
next decade or two, is the short term.  The long term is curbing
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.  If people don't focus on that, 2050 will bring
short-term consequences that there is no way to cope with.


feed_id: b972827c8c4add77d28205aea5e95dd2
title: Burma's UN ambassador
uri: Burma-s-UN-ambassador
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Burma%27s_UN_ambassador%29
content:
<p>

Burma's military rulers seem to have sent assassins to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-myanmar-politics-un/u-s-says-plot-against-myanmar-u-n-envoy-fits-disturbing-pattern-idUSKBN2F80LD">kill Burma's
UN ambassador</a>, who was appointed before the coup.
<p>
The alleged assassins have been arrested.


feed_id: 6ce656242fa18b60fe935344f136e115
title: Taliban capturing provincial capitals
uri: Taliban-capturing-provincial-capitals
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Taliban_capturing_provincial_capitals%29

content:
<p>

The Taliban are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/07/taliban-seize-second-afghan-provincial-capital-in-two-days-sheberghan">capturing provincial capitals</a>.
I think this means they are close to winning the war.


feed_id: 08a1ad14cffc07f6fa8bbc93bf7314d6
title: Medical problems caused by heat
uri: Medical-problems-caused-by-heat
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Medical_problems_caused_by_heat%29
content:
<p>

Tens of millions of Americans <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/07/study-health-extreme-heat-climate-crisis">suffered from medical problems caused by heat</a>,
last summer.  It will keep getting worse.


feed_id: 57ccd43d3143cc91aa903913c12c26c7
title: Masks in Florida schools
uri: Masks-in-Florida-schools
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Masks_in_Florida_schools%29
content:
<p>

The CDC urges everyone in school to wear masks.  Florida governor
Deadly DeSantis has threatened to cut funding for public school
systems that require masks.  Some districts are deciding to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/05/despite-funding-threat-florida-schools-defy-desantiss-ban-mask-mandates">do it
anyway</a>.
<p>
Apparently they consider that protecting their students, and whoever
those students come in contact with, is more important than the funds
that DeSantis might deny them.


feed_id: b8fa4cae953133f86d2db4f1ace04675
title: Electric cars by 2030
uri: Electric-cars-by-2030
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Electric_cars_by_2030%29
content:
<p>

Biden calls for 40% of cars sold in 2030 to be electric.
That's <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/05/half-measure-critics-warn-bidens-electric-vehicle-auto-emissions-plan-insufficiently">about 40% of what we need to aim for</a>.
<p>
However, in order for it to be possible to charge cars without their
being tracked, we need chargers that accept anonymous payment &mdash;
preferably cash and GNU Taler.


feed_id: 609e8561bc99a37d6034111e50089dd1
title: Jamaicans in the UK
uri: Jamaicans-in-the-UK
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Jamaicans_in_the_UK%29
content:
<p>

The UK government said it would not deport Jamaicans brought to the
UK decades ago as children, but it is about to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/aug/05/outcry-over-plan-to-deport-jamaican-nationals-who-came-to-uk-as-children">start doing so anyway</a>.
<p>
The deportation department seems to have no regard for commitments of
any kind.  It will take half an excuse, pretend that is a justification,
and deport, disregarding both fairness and people's legal rights.


feed_id: c60137ce09bfd99931c49c6c28abbdba
title: Maiming protesters
uri: Maiming-protesters
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Maiming_protesters%29
content:
<p>

Minnesota thugs <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/05/stand-us-indigenous-line-3-opponents-seek-allies-fight-tar-sands-pipeline">relish maiming protesters</a> that oppose the Line 3
Pipeline.  They fire rubber-coated metal bullets at people's heads.


feed_id: 0b4627a8d1edf89351b758e39ba91d11
title: Lies about election fraud
uri: Lies-about-election-fraud
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Lies_about_election_fraud%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#bully">The bully</a> pushed hard to corrupt the Department of Justice
into <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/05/politics/what-matters-trump-doj-coup/index.html">endorsing his lies about election fraud</a>, just before the
end of 2020.
<p>
Many senior officials said they would resign in protest, and this may be
what convinced him to back down.


feed_id: fd2a6364f23f16b3515a5c20350dfd4d
title: Facebook cut off accounts of researchers
uri: Facebook-cut-off-accounts-of-researchers
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28Facebook_cut_off_accounts_of_researchers%29

content:
<p>

*   Facebook <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/04/truly-disturbing-facebook-blasted-blocking-nyu-researchers-examining-ad-model-and">cut off accounts of researchers</a> examining its political ads and misinformation on the platform.*


feed_id: b079703f113f212d497fdd9d6efd18ab
title: (satire) Nursing home deaths
uri: (satire)-Nursing-home-deaths
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#9_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Nursing_home_deaths%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *Cuomo Increasingly Desperate To <a href="https://www.theonion.com/cuomo-increasingly-desperate-to-shift-focus-back-onto-n-1847423866">Shift Focus Back Onto
Nursing Home Deaths</a>.*
<p>
I hope to write seriously about Andrew Cuomo tomorrow.


feed_id: 2a580a69144660c075bac1540a34aeff
title: Vine fastening
uri: Vine-fastening
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Vine_fastening%29
content:
<p>
Low-tech "saeklon" houses, with beams fastened with vines instead of
nails, stood in Vanuatu <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/09/the-house-that-can-withstand-a-cyclone-how-traditional-dwellings-are-making-a-comeback-in-vanuatu">when the cyclone tore apart modern buildings</a>.


feed_id: 220dd044e1f5570f87d09c4619fe3f08
title: Modern farming
uri: Modern-farming
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Modern_farming%29
content:
<p>
Africans who adopt "modern" farming that requires expensive chemicals
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/08/african-faith-leaders-gates-foundation-drop-african-green-revolution">become in effect prisoners of those needs</a>.

<p>
An overall look at how to reduce hunger in Africa over the long term needs
to factor in population growth, and reducing it.


feed_id: 0525606b2f8868a2177565c52b25bcbb
title: Delays in medical treatment
uri: Delays-in-medical-treatment
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Delays_in_medical_treatment%29
content:
<p>
The delays in medical treatment caused by Tory underfunding of the NHS
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/aug/09/nhs-england-delays-could-lead-to-thousands-of-deaths-says-heart-charity">could cause thousands to die of various treatable problems</a>.


feed_id: 48974642aba7070c05956b7423821bc2
title: Supervised recreational drugs intake
uri: Supervised-recreational-drugs-intake
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Supervised_recreational_drugs_intake%29

content:
<p>
Rhode Island has authorized supervised places <a href="https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/rhode-island-first-state-to-allow-harm-reduction-centers-safe-drug-consumption">to take illegal
recreational drugs</a>.
  The aim is to reduce the harm that results from taking the drugs,
including overdoses.

<p>
It would be additionally helpful if they could analyze the user's
drugs for toxic impurities and strength.  It would be even more
helpful if these centers sold drugs of known potency and without
impurities, to registered addicts.


feed_id: 7cb0c58a8cd93afc408f7254ee2dbd43
title: Children hospitalized of Covid
uri: Children-hospitalized-of-Covid
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Children_hospitalized_of_Covid%29
content:
<p>
Many children are now being hospitalized <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/07/health/children-covid-19-protection/index.html">with severe Covid-19
infections</a>.


feed_id: cfa332e5d2baf5c50c8e62a0df0e397b
title: Weak electric car policy
uri: Weak-electric-car-policy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Weak_electric_car_policy%29
content:
<p>
Union of Concerned Scientists: <a href="https://ucsusa.org/about/news/biden-administration-vehicle-proposals-strengthen-standards-fall-short-necessary">why Biden's electric car policy is too weak</a>.


feed_id: 3cfed045941362bc34861fef2bbcf108
title: Surveillance hub
uri: Surveillance-hub
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Surveillance_hub%29
content:
<p>
The "fusion center" (surveillance hub) of Minnesota refuses to tell
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/07/minnesota-pipeline-line-3-public-records/">how thugs have been surveilling the pipeline protesters</a>.

<p>
The thugs go beyond surveillance &mdash; <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2018-sep-dec.html#9_October_2018_(Thugs_who_shot_protester_face_no_punishment)">they attack protesters
in illegal ways</a>.


feed_id: ca2cfd6ec7a8af268f9296dff3d693ab
title: Changing the conversation
uri: Changing-the-conversation
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Changing_the_conversation%29
content:
<p>
When Bogus Johnson has no serious answer to a serious question, he
insults a group of people <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/06/boris-johnson-coalmine-prime-minister-climate-crisis">as a way of changing the conversation</a>.


feed_id: ae448180ea069e136deadc5d592feb72
title: New cases of Covid
uri: New-cases-of-Covid
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28New_cases_of_Covid%29
content:
<p>
US new cases of Covid-19 are running about 100,000 per day again, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/06/us-covid-coronavirus-delta-variant">a level
last seen in February</a>.


feed_id: ae2c1df8654d46f3973716ef433cbd44
title: Disregard voting record
uri: Disregard-voting-record
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Disregard_voting_record%29
content:
<p>
Conor Lamb is running for the Senate in Pennsylvania and asks people
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/06/conor-lamb-senate-pennsylvania/">to disregard his right-wing voting record in the House</a>.

<p>
The crucial question to ask any Democrat running for the Senate
is, "Will you vote to abolish the filibuster?"


feed_id: a4e933ac8ac8f47dec3d624d149ae1da
title: Surveillance city
uri: Surveillance-city
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Surveillance_city%29
content:
<p>
*Senate Infrastructure Bill <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/06/infrastructure-bill-smart-city-surveillance/">Would Invest $500 Million in “Smart City”
 Surveillance Technology</a>.*

<p>
Personal data, once collected, <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html"><em>will</em> be misused</a>.
                                                   To speak of
"privacy protection" in regard to tracking data is a lulliby for the
gullible.


feed_id: af85434b79de5315572a5432e0892517
title: 9/11 memorial
uri: 9-11-memorial
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%289%2F11_memorial%29
content:
<p>
*9/11 families tell Biden to skip [the 9/11] memorial [event] <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/usa-sept11-families-int/9-11-families-tell-biden-to-skip-memorial-if-he-does-not-declassify-files-idUSKBN2F72AO">if he
does not declassify files [about the possible involvement of Salafi
Arabia]</a>.*


feed_id: 2104189e223a32ba3dfe8c343aa73bc1
title: No return home
uri: No-return-home
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28No_return_home%29
content:
<p>
Australians living abroad, who visit family in Australia, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/aug/07/theyve-taken-it-way-too-far-australians-living-abroad-fear-being-trapped-if-they-return-home-to-visit-family">will not be
able to return home</a>.

<p>
As long as Australia was keeping Covid-19 out, its strict quarantine
policies were justified and necessary.  But if Covid-19 spreads and
Australia abandons the effort to keep it out, but may as well permit
travel as much as other countries do.


feed_id: 4e00a8c39811551d42f4ce3b8b69e771
title: Close Guantanamo prison
uri: Close-Guantanamo-prison
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28Close_Guantanamo_prison%29
content:
<p>
Several congressional leaders <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/04/amnesty-follows-house-dems-letter-imploring-biden-close-gitmo-once-and-all">have called on Biden to close the
Guantanamo prison</a>.

<p>
Starting with the "easy" prisoners is natural, but if the goal is to
close the Guantanamo prison rather than just reduce the number of
prisoners, that requires tackling the hard problem: the 10 prisoners
who have somehow been charged.  It will take decades for this problem
will go away on its own, and that is too long, so let's get moving on it.

<p>
Some of them can be put on trial.  One approach would be for Biden to
demand, of Congress, "Authorize bringing them to the US for a real
trial, or I will have to let them go.  You've got six months to do
it."

<p>
However, there are some who can't ever be put on trial because the US
beat confessions out of them using torture.  Those confessions are not
valid proof of anything, because they are likely to be false.  Indeed,
one prisoner told the lies Dubya would want to hear, and thus <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2011-may-aug.html#08_May_2011_(Finding_Osama_bin_Laden)">tricked
the US into attacking the wrong enemy</a>.

<p>
Since the US can't try them, the US will have to let them go.  If the
US doesn't like this outcome, well, it should have thought about this
before torturing them.


feed_id: 59aae3215fb6b29c35ecd397af5af583
title: New political article
uri: New-political-article
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#10_August_2021_%28New_political_article%29
content:
<p>
Why we should get rid of corporate landlords, <a href="https://stallman.org/articles/corporate-landlords.html">and an easy method</a>.


feed_id: e23eedb34f103c247c51a74ee8a14b67
title: Greenville, California
uri: Greenville-California
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#7_August_2021_%28Greenville%2C_California%29
content:
<p>

A wildfire <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/05/california-dixie-fire-greenville">destroyed</a> the historic old town of Greenville, California.


feed_id: d7c6f742ae4c480d42953f94f7898e97
title: Health workers arrested
uri: Health-workers-arrested
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Health_workers_arrested%29
content:
<p>
*In Burma, more than 190 health workers have been arrested and 86
 raids on hospitals carried out since the coup &mdash; <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-myanmar/myanmar-army-attacks-medics-hampering-covid-response-rights-groups-say-idUSKBN2FB18D">Physicians for Human
 Rights and others</a>.*


feed_id: 1a14830266d93cd30f375e6cbe78381c
title: Urgent: ban requiring overtime
uri: Urgent-ban-requiring-overtime
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_ban_requiring_overtime%29

content:
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.democracyforamerica.com/sign/End_Mandatory_Overtime_/">call on Congress</a> to ban employers from requiring overtime work.


feed_id: 9b3474f86cad1e1c53ed02969a147755
title: Surprise enormous medical bills
uri: Surprise-enormous-medical-bills
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Surprise_enormous_medical_bills%29

content:
<p>
The Yale researchers who reported how frequent surprise enormous
medical bills are in emergency rooms <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/10/unitedhealthcare-yale-surprise-billing-study/">got support from a big insurance
company, United Health Care</a>, 
  and this support came with strings that were morally unacceptable.
For instance, excluding the insurance companies a priori from criticism.


feed_id: 4257a9802651614250a98254491fbde0
title: Building a border wall
uri: Building-a-border-wall
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Building_a_border_wall%29
content:
<p>
Ironically, Lithuania <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/10/latvia-and-lithuania-act-to-counter-migrants-crossing-belarus-border">is building a wall on its border with Belarus</a>
  because Lukashenko is bringing migrants from the Middle East to direct them
into Lithuania, as well as into Poland and Latvia.

<p>
Belarus is now an ally of Russia.  The way to put real pressure on
Russia is to stop buying its fossil fuels.  As it happens, this fits
perfectly with what Europe needs to do anyway &mdash; use less fossil fuel.
Germany needs to bite the bullet and cut its fuel imports from Russia,
temporarily buy them from somewhere else, and tax fossil fuels enough
to make the total usage decline quickly.

<p>
European countries could also cut off ground and air traffic between
the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad and the main bulk of Russia.
That is a somewhat aggressive move, though nowhere near as aggressive
as seizing the Crimea or stirring up rebellion in eastern Ukraine.


feed_id: 82e76a7e10364d84292976c6a7b1557e
title: Fashion greenwashing
uri: Fashion-greenwashing
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Fashion_greenwashing%29
content:
<p>
*Greta Thunberg: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2021/aug/10/greta-thunberg-ethical-fast-fashion-greenwashing">ethical fast fashion is "pure greenwashing."</a>*

<p>
It's obvious: the way to avoid wasteful clothing consumption is to buy
clothing a lot less often, and make each garment last.  That's what
I've always done.


feed_id: 7d86605d0b8796b3203ff3de870eddbc
title: Unfair coverage of criminals
uri: Unfair-coverage-of-criminals
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Unfair_coverage_of_criminals%29
content:
<p>
*Mexican cartel threatens to kill TV news anchor <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/09/mexico-cartel-threat-tv-news-anchor">over "unfair" coverage</a>.*


feed_id: 582428cb0dd00aba04dbf1532855d8dc
title: Vaccination in the military
uri: Vaccination-in-the-military
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Vaccination_in_the_military%29
content:
<p>
The Pentagon will require everyone in the US military
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/09/us-military-covid-vaccine-mandate-military">to get Covid-19 vaccination</a>.
  The military already requires other vaccinations.

<p>
This policy should have been adopted months ago.  Last year there was
a Covid-19 outbreak on a navy ship which would surely have diminished
its combat capability.  This alone is enough reason to require
vaccination, even without the point that it will advance the US towards
herd immunity, <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#9_June_2021_(San_Francisco_herd_immunity)">which means that Covid-19 outbreaks will die away on
their own</a>.


feed_id: da43422168e5b6437a01a7575f5f359b
title: Accusations against Cuomo
uri: Accusations-against-Cuomo
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Accusations_against_Cuomo%29
content:
<p>
Detailing some of the accusations <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/03/andrew-cuomo-new-york-governor-sexual-harassment-investigation">against Governor Cuomo of New York</a>.

<p>
Because these descriptions are detailed and clear, they give us a
basis for judging his actions.  I think he was trying to pressure and
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#bully">bully</a> women into having sex with him, and that is very bad.

<p>
Previously I had seen statements formulated in terms of "appropriate".
Those are statements of opinion, not fact.  We should judge people's
actions (or possible actions) based on the actions, not indirectly
based on other people's opinions of actions not concretely described.
Lacking the basis to judge, I decided not to judge them &mdash; not then.

<p>
The news today <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/10/andrew-cuomo-resigns-sexual-harassment-intimidation">is that Cuomo has resigned</a>.


feed_id: 3888f9836e0c601257b13c9a36896c20
title: Urgent: Better Care Better Jobs Act
uri: Urgent-Better-Care-Better-Jobs-Act
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Better_Care_Better_Jobs_Act%29

content:
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/protect-seniors-people-with-disabilities-pass-the-better-care-better-jobs-act?nowrapper=true">call on Congress</a> to pass the Better Care Better Jobs Act.


feed_id: a82fe331e75754265849602137d7b364
title: Series of cruelties
uri: Series-of-cruelties
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Series_of_cruelties%29
content:
<p>
For people that start, as children, in harsh circumstances, punishing
them for using drugs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/09/drug-users-hypocritical-politicians-failure-policy">is often one additional stage in a series of
cruelties</a>.
  Plutocratist rule has no interest in helping the non-rich at any
stage.


feed_id: 60b376bb8852e9f73a5faaeff3fc408a
title: Auditing
uri: Auditing
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Auditing%29
content:
<p>
The UK's system for auditing large companies is untrustworthy; this
has been known for years.  But <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/09/covid-crash-britain-auditors-support-reform">there is no effort to fix it</a>.
  The Tories
find no difficulty  making like painful for the poor and weak (though they will
pretend it isn't happening), but they haven't got the stomach to give the rich
and powerful any bad-tasting medicine.


feed_id: 29b488ed0bb38be3f4df2db4071a3f9c
title: IPCC report
uri: IPCC-report
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28IPCC_report%29
content:
<p>
*   Widespread devastation and extreme weather is likely to become
   inevitable within the next two decades thanks to human behaviour
   causing rising temperatures, the International Panel on Climate Change
   (IPCC) has warned.*

<p>
*The IPCC report is clear: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/09/ipcc-report-transforming-society-avert-catastrophe-net-zero">nothing short of transforming society will
avert catastrophe</a>.*

<p>
Thunberg: *'Massive public pressure' <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-ipcc-thunberg/thunberg-massive-public-pressure-needed-to-galvanize-climate-fight-idUSKBN2FA12J">needed to galvanize climate fight</a>.*


feed_id: 28f57448687b7aac107c4453a5d1c2a9
title: Running short on water
uri: Running-short-on-water
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Running_short_on_water%29
content:
<p>
Mendocino, California, is running short on water.  Importing water <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/07/california-drought-water-mendocino-tourism">has
become very expensive</a>.

<p>
They may need to invest in solar-powered desalination.


feed_id: 00ed90ae7daff3f9df6bc8cf6c57d134
title: Old, damaged trees
uri: Old-damaged-trees
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Old%2C_damaged_trees%29
content:
<p>
Old, damaged trees must not be destroyed &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/08/living-world-time-saplings-oak-slow-ecology-habitats">many animals need them
for survival</a>.


feed_id: 2a4e73f5bc3c086541ea076e6335a9f3
title: Anti-vax radio host has died of Covid
uri: Anti-vax-radio-host-has-died-of-Covid
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Anti-vax_radio_host_has_died_of_Covid%29

content:
<p>
Anti-vax radio host Dick Farrel <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/08/rightwing-radio-host-dick-farrel-anti-vaxxer-dies-covid">has died of Covid</a>.
  Reportedly he repented
of his folly while on his deathbed in the hospital.


feed_id: 656d80b2980fcdfff99b80cb38981288
title: Urgent: Green New Deal for public schools
uri: Urgent-Green-New-Deal-for-public-schools
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Green_New_Deal_for_public_schools%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.rootsaction.org/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=14293">Pass the Green New Deal</a> for Public
Schools.
<p>
To sign without running <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/javascript-trap.html">nonfree JavaScript</a> code
from the web site, use the <a href="https://stallman.org/salsalabs-method.html">Salsalabs workaround</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: fa7066d29ad7d450fe1cda4b80656c46
title: Urgent: Myrna Pérez
uri: Urgent-Myrna-Pérez
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Myrna_P%C3%83%C2%A9rez%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on the Senate to <a href="https://act.pfaw.org/sign/confirm-myrna-perez-second-circuit/">confirm Myrna Pérez</a> for the US
second circuit court of appeals.


feed_id: c3fae5a1839c9aeca0f20d103ac829d4
title: Raids on hospitals
uri: Raids-on-hospitals
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Raids_on_hospitals%29
content:
<p>

*In Burma, more than 190 health workers have been arrested and 86
 <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-myanmar/myanmar-army-attacks-medics-hampering-covid-response-rights-groups-say-idUSKBN2FB18D">raids on hospitals</a> carried out since the coup &mdash; Physicians for Human
 Rights and others.*


feed_id: 9c76771fd09d40a6b4c24b3fe3c661e6
title: Threats to human rights
uri: Threats-to-human-rights
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Threats_to_human_rights%29
content:
<p>

*India's chief justice has said the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/10/india-police-stations-human-rights-threat-chief-justice">most dangerous places in the
country for threats to human rights</a> are police stations.*
<p>
This is true in many countries.  I admire an official who is willing
to admit it.  Bravo!
<p>
Now the task ahead is to change that situation.


feed_id: 83b5b68681791831fda07d9dea7edd70
title: Army and militias to fight Tigray
uri: Army-and-militias-to-fight-Tigray
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Army_and_militias_to_fight_Tigray%29

content:
<p>

The government of Ethiopia is calling on people to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ethiopia-conflict/ethiopia-urges-citizens-to-join-fight-against-tigrayan-forces-idUSKBN2FB156">join the army and militias</a> to fight Tigray.
<p>
To recruit soldiers without training them is an act of desperation.
This suggests that the Ethiopian army has collapsed.  That the
Tigrayan forces have captured places outside Tigray itself supports
the idea.  But it is very surprising, a priori.  What in the world is
happening there?


feed_id: ad75e6b05de090037526e83cd15923e6
title: Aid for Texas
uri: Aid-for-Texas
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Aid_for_Texas%29
content:
<p>

Governor Abbott of Texas <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/10/texas-coronavirus-covid-delta-cases-hospitals-mask-mandates">begged for aid</a> so Texas can cope with all the
people hospitalized with Covid-19.
<p>
Abbott is famous for fighting against all the measures that could have
avoided so much spread of Covid-19.  The aid Texas needs is to undo
Abbott's harm.  Thus, other states should offer Texas masks and
vaccination teams, plus a Democrat who could take over as governor of
Texas.


feed_id: 7fdfd583a3e8343adb783434a0217522
title: Deportations of Afghan asylum seekers
uri: Deportations-of-Afghan-asylum-seekers
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Deportations_of_Afghan_asylum_seekers%29

content:
<p>

*Six [European] countries urge EU <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-afghanistan-conflict-eu-deportations/six-countries-urge-eu-not-to-halt-deportations-of-rejected-afghan-asylum-seekers-idUSKBN2FB0MC">not to halt deportations</a> of rejected
 Afghan asylum seekers.*


feed_id: 68ee90e599069e129981363fc7f0461b
title: Heat, drought and fire
uri: Heat-drought-and-fire
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Heat%2C_drought_and_fire%29
content:
<p>

*Heat, drought and fire: how climate dangers combine for a catastrophic
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/10/heat-drought-and-fire-how-climate-dangers-combine-for-a-catastrophic-perfect-storm">"perfect storm."</a>*


feed_id: e031139f683f45f9053df47798ff7b68
title: Wildlife benefit grapevines
uri: Wildlife-benefit-grapevines
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Wildlife_benefit_grapevines%29
content:
<p>

Allowing wildlife to grow between grapevines or olive trees turns out
to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/10/days-of-wine-and-olives-how-the-old-farming-ways-are-paying-off-spain-aoe">benefit production and the soil</a>.


feed_id: c838ec4ec2c0709b13e75faf8c71c3d4
title: Australian protesters
uri: 2021-08-12-Australian-protesters
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Australian_protesters%29
content:
<p>

Australian protesters are going all-out to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-ipcc-australia/australian-protesters-deface-parliament-as-govt-faces-pressure-on-climate-targets-idUSKBN2FB0AM">pressure the government
to cooperate with climate defense</a>.


feed_id: b7d7fdc68a636664da5d96132e495ee7
title: (satire) Put off going to the doctor
uri: (satire)-Put-off-going-to-the-doctor
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Put_off_going_to_the_doctor%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *Woman Puts Off Going To Doctor Until Disease <a href="https://www.theonion.com/woman-puts-off-going-to-doctor-until-disease-bad-enough-1847437610">Bad Enough For
Him To Believe Her</a>.*


feed_id: f371f005d7334a48f06da53af238e24c
title: Contempt for pain and loss
uri: Contempt-for-pain-and-loss
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Contempt_for_pain_and_loss%29
content:
<p>

The private boarding schools where the British elite educate their
sons are designed to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/aug/08/public-schoolboys-boris-johnson-sad-little-boys-richard-beard">teach them contempt for their own pain and loss</a>,
and therefore contempt for anyone else's pain and loss.
<p>
They also learn never to show they care about anything or anyone.  The
writer argues that this is why the ruling class educated there is so
bad at ruling.


feed_id: b5adc437c59d1f1f84de5ecbf9c6abe8
title: Carbon pricing on meat and dairy
uri: Carbon-pricing-on-meat-and-dairy
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Carbon_pricing_on_meat_and_dairy%29

content:
<p>

*Animal and Climate Justice Coalition Calls for <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/08/animal-and-climate-justice-coalition-calls-carbon-pricing-meat-dairy-products">Carbon Pricing on
Meat, Dairy Products</a>.*
<p>
I support this.  I don't intend to cease eating meat or dairy, but
when I do so, I should pay the real cost, and so should everyone else.
This will help encourage everyone to cut down.


feed_id: 8edaf1159a695a77d24afd9eafb35845
title: Legal representation for poor people
uri: Legal-representation-for-poor-people
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Legal_representation_for_poor_people%29

content:
<p>

We must establish the <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/08/opinions/access-to-justice-gap-civil-rights-kennedy-pavuluri/index.html">right for poor people to have legal
representation</a> in civil cases.
<p>
The UK used to have a system called "legal aid" which did this,
but the Tories cut it, and cut it again, and I don't think there is
much left of it now.


feed_id: 2facc889a1890a77c5dc741d736d548e
title: Voting rights legislation
uri: Voting-rights-legislation
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Voting_rights_legislation%29
content:
<p>

*Young people in West Virginia look to push Sen. Joe Manchin in hopes
of <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/08/politics/joe-manchin-voting-rights-young-people/index.html">passing federal voting rights legislation</a>.*
<p>
Thank you, the country needs this.


feed_id: 02d3a112aae0fc65be29e5e348d9acfe
title: Go big on climate
uri: Go-big-on-climate
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Go_big_on_climate%29
content:
<p>

*Top Scientists to Biden and Congress: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/top-scientists-biden-and-congress-go-big-climate-do-so-now">'Go Big on Climate&hellip; Do So Now'</a>.*


feed_id: 796ab0987599f3cdd3655726a0d71bb9
title: Avert climate hell
uri: Avert-climate-hell
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Avert_climate_hell%29
content:
<p>

*IPCC to Say <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/ipcc-say-drastic-methane-cuts-necessary-avert-climate-hell">Drastic Methane Cuts Necessary</a> to Avert Climate Hell.*


feed_id: 70dbb104eca8aea6e4c32549b80bb2e0
title: Unemployment benefits
uri: 2021-08-12-Unemployment-benefits
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Unemployment_benefits%29
content:
<p>

7.5 million Americans will <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/inexcusably-cruel-75-million-set-lose-jobless-benefits-labor-day">lose their unemployment benefits</a> on Labor
Day.


feed_id: 8b3da93e948bde0ceb8644d8dd957ff2
title: Can't afford missing work
uri: Can-t-afford-missing-work
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Can%27t_afford_missing_work%29
content:
<p>

Many low-paid US workers <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/vaccine-regrets-proliferate-delta-surges-tsunami-among-unvaccinated">can't afford to miss work</a> even one day to get
vaccinated.
<p>
How about offering them three days' pay for each injection?
That will cover one day to get the shot, and two for side effects.
If they don't have bad side effects, this will be a nice bonus.
<p>
Meanwhile, I think that the proposed vaccine mandates for federal workers,
military personnel, medical personnel and the work force of some businesses
will help.  They are a small fraction of the population, but in the
delusional states they will help break through the anti-vax pressure.


feed_id: 82952006284bbc566c86eabaf7e6c87a
title: Vaccination for the recovered
uri: Vaccination-for-the-recovered
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Vaccination_for_the_recovered%29
content:
<p>

If you have recovered from Covid-19, get vaccinated.  Vaccination makes
it <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/new-cdc-data-shows-covid-19-reinfection-risk-double-unvaccinated-people">less likely you will get infected again</a>.
It also reduces the likely severity of a subsequent reinfection.


feed_id: ca45f249044740873271ae6c77cebd18
title: Commissioner of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
uri: Commissioner-of-the-Federal-Energy-Regulatory-Commission
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Commissioner_of_the_Federal_Energy_Regulatory_Commission%29

content:
<p>

Biden must <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/460-groups-demand-biden-pick-climate-champion-key-energy-position">choose a climate defender</a> as commissioner of the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.


feed_id: a40ddef8ab38bfeee6ccb47ab77290b6
title: Postmaster general
uri: Postmaster-general
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Postmaster_general%29
content:
<p>

*How in the world is Louis DeJoy <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/long-past-time-fire-dejoy-postmaster-generals-ex-company-gets-120-million-contract">still the postmaster general</a>?*


feed_id: 3b25ce4cde8c882482b1bd78d19ba7f2
title: Budget resolution
uri: Budget-resolution
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Budget_resolution%29
content:
<p>
Sanders published the draft plan for the budget resolution, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/09/sanders-hails-35-trillion-resolution-most-consequential-proposal-new-deal">which will
aid the poor in many ways</a>.

<p>
However, I see nothing significant to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Since climate defense was omitted from the infrastructure bill too,
this is disaster.  <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/09/not-report-despair-over-ipcc-gives-humanity-clear-directive-act-boldly-and-urgently">We need to act boldly and urgently</a>,
  and the budget resolution is one of the few opportunities
to stop Republicans from filibustering it.


feed_id: 66de5640baf71476bc2dba0220ad6dc2
title: Part of an official couple
uri: Part-of-an-official-couple
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Part_of_an_official_couple%29
content:
<p>
Less than half of Britons 16 and older <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/aug/10/why-divorce-is-up-and-marriages-are-down-except-in-clitheroe">are part of an official couple</a>.

<p>
One of the few exceptions is Clitheroe.
It seems that only clit heroes can stay married, nowadays.


feed_id: af646e748b6e5056944a3d67554ce35e
title: Major climate changes
uri: Major-climate-changes
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Major_climate_changes%29
content:
<p>
*Major climate changes <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/aug/09/humans-have-caused-unprecedented-and-irreversible-change-to-climate-scientists-warn">inevitable and irreversible</a>.*

<p>
*Only rapid and drastic reductions in greenhouse gases in this decade
   can prevent such climate breakdown, with every fraction of a degree of
   further heating likely to compound the accelerating effects.*

<p>
The IPCC presents seven possible scenarios <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-ipcc-scenarios/explainer-the-u-n-climate-reports-five-futures-decoded-idUSKBN2FA0JT">for future development
of the Earth's climate</a>.

<p>
It also says that cutting methane emissions <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/ipcc-say-drastic-methane-cuts-necessary-avert-climate-hell">must be the immediate priority</a>.

<p>
That means emissions from cows, and from the extraction and transmission
of natural gas.


feed_id: 0a8b84edf1eeaec7d2bae1a886031a7c
title: Charging 8yo with blasphemy
uri: Charging-8yo-with-blasphemy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Charging_8yo_with_blasphemy%29
content:
<p>
Pakistan has charged an eight-year-old boy with blasphemy.
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/09/eight-year-old-becomes-youngest-person-charged-with-blasphemy-in-pakistan">He may be executed for this</a>.

<p>
It is evil to punish anyone for blasphemy.
  However, regardless of the crime, it never makes sense to punish
children as criminals.  They have not had the chance to develop the
sort of responsibility which laws could operate through.


feed_id: c89d773c0a17781baab96463c1ed182b
title: Repression
uri: 2021-08-12-Repression
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Repression%29
content:
<p>
The repression in Belarus <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/09/belarus-regime-steps-up-purge-of-activists-and-media">has hit massive numbers of people</a>.


feed_id: 620af93f3e039d94fe93be18abb82022
title: Harder borders
uri: Harder-borders
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Harder_borders%29
content:
<p>
*Harder borders are a legacy of Covid <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/09/harder-borders-rules-covid">we should reject</a>.*

<p>
It is rational to restrict travel into your country if it has a low
level of Covid-19.  If it has a high level, such restrictions are
pointless annoyance.  Thus, I am amused by the US's prohibition on
visits by Europeans.  With millions of Americans you can catch
Covid-19 from, what difference would a few Europeans make?


feed_id: a5519d99065f59129be368c184462623
title: No one is safe
uri: No-one-is-safe
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28No_one_is_safe%29
content:
<p>
The UN report shows the climate crisis <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-ipcc-adaptation-analys/analysis-u-n-climate-report-depicts-fast-warming-world-where-nobody-is-safe-idUSKBN2FA1EK">in which no one is safe for long</a>.


feed_id: 96db947cc3ec570394d5c6bcb25dac5a
title: Supporting voter suppression
uri: Supporting-voter-suppression
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Supporting_voter_suppression%29
content:
<p>
Google, Facebook, and General Motors helped fund the Republican State
Leadership Committee, <a href="https://www.exposedbycmd.org/2021/08/09/companies-that-publicly-opposed-voter-suppression-continue-to-fund-voter-suppression-group/">which supports voter suppression</a>.

<p>
Those companies say they are against voter suppression, but apparently
not against it enough to stop donating.


feed_id: 5e1532b98fe791d100741ff7ec44b47f
title: Making protesting illegal
uri: Making-protesting-illegal
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Making_protesting_illegal%29
content:
<p>
The UK "police bill" will impose so many restrictions on protests
that protesting in a way that people will notice <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/09/police-bill-not-law-order-state-control-erosion-freedom">will be effectively
illegal</a>.


feed_id: 5b2946f91282e37f22b4e5c5b0975d42
title: Funding cuts and fires
uri: Funding-cuts-and-fires
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Funding_cuts_and_fires%29
content:
<p>
The damage caused by the fires near Athens <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-greece-wildfires-anger/angry-greeks-criticise-government-response-after-wildfire-devastation-idUSKBN2FA1JI">was exacerbated by funding
cuts to the fire departments</a>.

<p>
These funding cuts <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2012-jan-apr.html#23_February_2012_(Greece)">were imposed by the Euro-banksters</a>
  as a consequence of the Euro-zone rules that stopped Greece from
doing the necessary deficit spending in 2010 and following years.


feed_id: 9dc2545dd6315eb532017d7f8ea01b2a
title: Not extreme anymore
uri: Not-extreme-anymore
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Not_extreme_anymore%29
content:
<p>
With 4C of <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>, what used to be extreme once-in-50-years heat waves
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-climate-change-ipcc-extremes/once-in-50-year-heat-waves-now-happening-every-decade-u-n-climate-report-idUSKBN2FA0K9">will happen in most years</a>.


feed_id: e1e55de866d7f99eba174887c5cc3942
title: Replanting burned forests
uri: Replanting-burned-forests
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Replanting_burned_forests%29
content:
<p>
Greece promises to replant the forests that have burned, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-greece-wildfires-pm/greek-pm-approves-500-million-euro-budget-for-wildfire-relief-reforestation-idUSKBN2FA1OL">but that
seems futile</a>.
   Whatever trees might grow in drought will burn up again.

<p>
Compensation for the destroyed property will be good provided that
people are not allowed to use it to rebuild in areas vulnerable to
fire.  Such areas should be designated as uninsurable.


feed_id: f238aa0dd3c718562f4387edc7f4b193
title: Blocking roads
uri: Blocking-roads
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Blocking_roads%29
content:
<p>
*Protesters block roads across Guatemala, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-guatemala-corruption-protest/protesters-block-roads-across-guatemala-urging-president-to-step-down-idUSKBN2FA1OV">urging president to step down</a>.*


feed_id: 71d1925339c5d1900cf1bd8ab84119bc
title: Alarm bells are deafening
uri: Alarm-bells-are-deafening
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Alarm_bells_are_deafening%29
content:
<p>
Secretary-General Guterres: *"The alarm bells are deafening," he said
in a statement. "This report must sound a death knell for coal and
fossil fuels, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-climate-change-ipcc-report/u-n-climate-change-report-sounds-code-red-for-humanity-idUSKBN2FA0JX">before they destroy our planet</a>."*


feed_id: 3ec4489db988afccfa85b8658977785a
title: Fleeing white terror
uri: Fleeing-white-terror
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Fleeing_white_terror%29
content:
<p>
*I covered Hong Kong for decades. Now <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/08/i-covered-hong-kong-for-decades-now-i-am-forced-to-flee-chinas-white-terror">I am forced to flee China’s "white
terror</a>."*


feed_id: 228452cf5d60d3ca8764843d6e657cba
title: Auditing
uri: 2021-08-12-Auditing
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_%28Auditing%29
content:
<p>
The UK's system for auditing large companies is untrustworthy; this
has been known for years.  But <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/09/covid-crash-britain-auditors-support-reform">there is no effort to fix it</a>.
  The Tories
find no difficulty  making life painful for the poor and weak (though they will
pretend it isn't happening), but they haven't got the stomach to give the rich
and powerful any bad-tasting medicine.


feed_id: f5051780fb96fe8d0f238e43c54f63d4
title: (satire) Vaccine Skeptic
uri: (satire)-Vaccine-Skeptic
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Vaccine_Skeptic%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *"I'll Wait Until It Passes The CDC, DCC, CCD, FAD, AFD, FDA,
BIA, AIB, BFI, FIB, FBI," <a href="https://www.theonion.com/i-ll-wait-until-it-passes-the-cdc-dcc-ccd-fad-afd-1847451973">Announces Vaccine Skeptic</a>.*


feed_id: 759ff6d3770f5287aeded013610ce53a
title: Exposing children to Covid-19
uri: Exposing-children-to-Covid-19
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Exposing_children_to_Covid-19%29
content:
<p>

Republican fanatics are trying to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/09/students-risk-battle-erupts-over-masks-us-schools">forcibly expose children to Covid-19</a>
in school.


feed_id: 10013b75abd30bb8fbb763aaf5d506e2
title: Rental assistance crisis
uri: Rental-assistance-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Rental_assistance_crisis%29
content:
<p>

*The Eviction Crisis Is a <a href="https://prospect.org/infrastructure/housing/eviction-crisis-is-a-rental-assistance-crisis/">Rental Assistance Crisis</a>.*  The US offers
to pay poor people's back rent, but the system to get the benefit does
not function.


feed_id: 39372fff6510c2929d682d9c66d40d21
title: Stop seeking death penalty
uri: Stop-seeking-death-penalty
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Stop_seeking_death_penalty%29
content:
<p>

*Democrats Pressure US Justice Department to <a href="Democrats <a href="">">Stop Seeking Death Penalty</a>.*


feed_id: 01e76a46c5effa0f4924cb7be1309440
title: Young Americans "pro-abortion"
uri: Young-Americans-pro-abortion
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Young_Americans_pro-abortion%29
content:
<p>

Finally, I'm not alone in saying I am "pro-abortion."
Young Americans are now <a href="https://prospect.org/justice/the-new-pro-abortion-generation/">organizing for this cause</a>.


feed_id: 4527aecc80c671a50e5c54c6741e603a
title: Getting Instagram accounts banned
uri: Getting-Instagram-accounts-banned
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Getting_Instagram_accounts_banned%29

content:
<p>

Certain businesses will get anyone's Instagram account <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/k78kmv/instagram-ban-restore-service-scam">banned for
a small fee</a>.
Other businesses will get the account unbanned again,
for a much larger fee.


feed_id: 83e01572e8715ee4f51f706d9b98eb32
title: Easy bankruptcy
uri: Easy-bankruptcy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Easy_bankruptcy%29
content:
<p>

Big businesses (and other organizations) in the US can choose a
bankruptcy judge who will <a href="https://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/judicial/566729-now-is-the-time-for-bankruptcy-venue-reform?rl=1">let the business get out easy</a>.


feed_id: 1269c93e79cb7a1508d178301d9f7ea6
title: Strike against doordash
uri: Strike-against-doordash
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Strike_against_doordash%29
content:
<p>

Drivers went on <a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/07/31/1023265561/why-doordash-drivers-are-on-strike">strike against Doordash</a>, which combined low pay
with manipulative uncertainty about how low it would be.
<p>
I urge people to refuse to buy from <em>any</em> of the <a href="https://stallman.org/food-delivery.html">food-delivery</a> gig companies.


feed_id: f2c378178eb95974fee7a04544ecda74
title: Outsourced customer service
uri: Outsourced-customer-service
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Outsourced_customer_service%29
content:
<p>

US companies outsource customer service to companies that subcontract
workers in Colombia, and force them to <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-tech-call-center-workers-face-pressure-accept-home-surveillance-n1276227">allow surveillance of their
homes (and their family)</a>.
<p>
It should be illegal to subcontract workers, and illegal to require them
to submit to video surveillance at home.


feed_id: eb5883c75a62d4bd0f47937bf3d0f11e
title: Censorship of karaoke
uri: Censorship-of-karaoke
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Censorship_of_karaoke%29
content:
<p>

China has <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-censorship-karaoke/china-to-bar-songs-with-illegal-content-from-karaoke-venues-idUSKBN2FC00B">announced censorship of karaoke</a>.


feed_id: 584855a738a8e2d049bf95e33b91a958
title: Chile's record-breaking drought
uri: Chile-s-record-breaking-drought
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Chile%27s_record-breaking_drought%29

content:
<p>

*Chile's record-breaking drought <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-chile-drought/chiles-record-breaking-drought-makes-climate-change-very-easy-to-see-idUSKBN2FB22O">makes climate [mayhem] "very easy" to see</a>.*


feed_id: 26b9d6042d0692d06537dd7664d0bf16
title: Saudi files
uri: Saudi-files
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Saudi_files%29
content:
<p>

*FBI <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/10/fbi-offer-documents-families-9-11-saudi-arabia">offer to release some Saudi files not enough</a>, 9/11 families say.*


feed_id: afea74504af6a41245e00bd1d18b9a59
title: Eve of Assange hearing
uri: Eve-of-Assange-hearing
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Eve_of_Assange_hearing%29
content:
<p>

*On Eve of Hearing, Amnesty Again Demands US <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/10/eve-hearing-amnesty-again-demands-us-end-effort-extradite-assange">End Effort to Extradite Assange</a>.*


feed_id: 114728bc5223105d690f8767ea66acd8
title: Princess Latifa in Iceland
uri: Princess-Latifa-in-Iceland
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Princess_Latifa_in_Iceland%29
content:
<p>

Princess Latifa was photographed in Iceland with a cousin, who said
that he had seen her <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/10/princess-latifa-campaigners-disband-after-cousin-says-she-is-happy-and-well">looking happy and well</a>.
<p>
I do wonder why she doesn't present unquestionable proof &mdash; for
instance, by dropping in at a TV station, showing her passport, and
giving a brief interview.


feed_id: 7e7c2bfb14ff5d5ab8c8e089ac47c2ee
title: Part of an official couple
uri: 2021-08-13-Part-of-an-official-couple
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Part_of_an_official_couple%29
content:
<p>
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/aug/10/why-divorce-is-up-and-marriages-are-down-except-in-clitheroe">Less than half of Britons 16 and older are part of an official couple</a>.
One of the few exceptions is in Clitheroe.

<p>
It seems that only clit heroes can stay married, nowadays.


feed_id: 07455d8bef4a88ea052eed03022db9ad
title: Stop seeking death penalty
uri: 2021-08-13-Stop-seeking-death-penalty
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#12_August_2021_%28Stop_seeking_death_penalty%29
content:
<p>
*Democrats Pressure US Justice Department to
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/09/democrats-pressure-us-justice-department-stop-seeking-death-penalty">Stop
Seeking Death Penalty</a>.*


feed_id: d8114e104841707e9bba870257889b44
title: Human composting
uri: Human-composting
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Human_composting%29
content:
<p>
*California considers human composting <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/12/california-human-composting-death-pollution">as a greener [corpse disposal]
 option</a>.*

<p>
One concern is to make sure that germs remaining the corpse don't get a
chance to infect anyone later.


feed_id: 5929192e40a5b16ea0f674e238f20165
title: Not serious about climate
uri: Not-serious-about-climate
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Not_serious_about_climate%29
content:
<p>
*Is Biden serious about climate? <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/12/is-biden-serious-about-climate-his-2000-drilling-and-fracking-permits-suggest-not">His 2,000 drilling and fracking permits
suggest not</a>.*

<p>
*Biden-backed "blue" hydrogen <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/12/clean-fuel-blue-hydrogen-coal-study">may pollute more than coal</a>, study finds.*

<p>
"Blue" hydrogen means it is made from fossil fuels, and produces
greenhouse gases.  The subsidy for this is a subsidy to the
planet-roasters.

<p>
The Tories pushing <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/12/uk-replace-fossil-gas-blue-hydrogen-backfire-emissions">that same climate evasion scheme</a>.
  Fake climate defense seems to be the latest fallback of the planet
roasters, succeeding climate delay.


feed_id: cc849c04b1b18fbf2c54ca95931e5fa8
title: Deportation thugs
uri: 2021-08-13-Deportation-thugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Deportation_thugs%29
content:
<p>
Acheleke Fuanya says that deportation <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> knelt on his neck and
suffocated him <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/12/cameroonian-asylum-seeker-sues-us-for-alleged-assault-by-ice-officers">to try to force him to accept his own deportation</a>.

<p>
He also accuses them of giving him Covid-19, by refusing to wear masks.


feed_id: 669d818133761b21ee46a885c2645d67
title: Assuming mild infections
uri: Assuming-mild-infections
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Assuming_mild_infections%29
content:
<p>
The CDC assumes that Covid-19 infections in vaccinated people,
if they don't need hospitalization, are mild.  But we don't know
whether they cause "long Covid" disabilities.  To find out, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/12/when-it-comes-to-breakthrough-cases-are-we-ignoring-long-covid-once-again">we need
to keep track of them</a>.


feed_id: e9d3084588b86975ba20243293c0ac4f
title: Monitoring people's sweat
uri: Monitoring-people-s-sweat
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Monitoring_people%27s_sweat%29
content:
<p>
Monitoring people's sweat chemically <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/aug/12/pores-for-thought-how-sweat-reveals-our-every-secret-from-what-weve-eaten-to-whether-were-on-drugs">could be a tool for repression</a>.


feed_id: e14569e3c7332cd74d16ff6d5df390d0
title: Libel case against Maria Ressa dismissed
uri: Libel-case-against-Maria-Ressa-dismissed
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Libel_case_against_Maria_Ressa_dismissed%29

content:
<p>
*Philippine court dismisses libel case <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-philippines-media/philippine-court-dismisses-libel-case-against-journalist-maria-ressa-idUSKBN2FD161">against journalist Maria Ressa</a>.*

<p>
This case was started <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jul-oct.html#13_July_2020_(Urgent:_stop_attacking_independent_media)">for purposes of repression</a>.


feed_id: 5117094bb23e599ff024d2fbff87d3f9
title: Blasphemy charges dropped
uri: Blasphemy-charges-dropped
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Blasphemy_charges_dropped%29
content:
<p>
Pakistan dropped blasphemy charges <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/12/pakistan-police-drop-blasphemy-charges-against-boy-8">against the eight-year-old Hindu boy</a>.

<p>
Pissing in a library is wrong, but threats of death or prison are not
the way to teach a child decorum.


feed_id: aa257b0b8404501d76fdedc1fbcfe112
title: Army crimes against women
uri: Army-crimes-against-women
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Army_crimes_against_women%29
content:
<p>
Amnesty International accuses the Ethiopian army <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/11/like-i-wasnt-a-person-ethiopian-forces-accused-of-systematic-in-tigray">of enslaving,
torturing, raping and mutilating Tigray women</a>.


feed_id: 5a0dd6eef2481e33d0d080ed3cb7e6c6
title: Climate action is a bargain
uri: Climate-action-is-a-bargain
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Climate_action_is_a_bargain%29
content:
<p>
*Once you understand the terrible cost of doing nothing, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/11/climate-action-bargain-britain-net-zero">climate action is a
bargain</a>.*

<p>
What doing nothing could cost us &mdash; or not doing enough &mdash; may include
technology and civilization.  It may include your life and the lives
of everyone you know.  There is nothing you can count on not to be
included in that cost, nothing you can assume will survive.

<p>
If there is anything you value, its survival depends on climate
defense.


feed_id: 6c4dff3973f56a9510b7921162ee0c7e
title: Not getting back to normal
uri: Not-getting-back-to-normal
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Not_getting_back_to_normal%29
content:
<p>
In a world of climate breakdown, there is no such thing <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/11/no-getting-back-to-normal-climate-breakdown-ipcc-report">as "getting
back to normal."</a>
  It may look that way, but it won't last.


feed_id: 317a8b8cff4049a77fbeb784046563da
title: Plastisphere
uri: Plastisphere
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Plastisphere%29
content:
<p>
The plastisphere is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/11/welcome-to-the-plastisphere-the-synthetic-ecosystem-evolving-at-sea">a new basis for ecosystems in the ocean</a>.

<p>
I wonder if we will someday need to make plastic substrates to put
in the ocean to preserve these ecosystems.


feed_id: 27c61a21fb3e19843d646d415e816947
title: Toxic metals in baby food and vegetables
uri: Toxic-metals-in-baby-food-and-vegetables
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Toxic_metals_in_baby_food_and_vegetables%29

content:
<p>
*EU lowers limits <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-eu-food-cadmium-lead/eu-lowers-limits-for-toxic-metals-in-baby-food-vegetables-idUSKBN2FC14C">for toxic metals in baby food, vegetables</a>.*

<p>
Ideally there would be no lead at all in any food, but that would be
prohibitively difficult.  The question is where to put the best tradeoff
between that goal and other goals, such as feasibility of making food.


feed_id: 02713627ec7303b24649db69b62ebffe
title: Defeating gentrification
uri: Defeating-gentrification
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Defeating_gentrification%29
content:
<p>
A neighborhood group in London writes about defeating a plan <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/11/urban-development-for-people-not-for-profit-north-london-latin-village">to
gentrify their neighborhood with public funds</a>.


feed_id: 8875d4d66c613a1475e53a7c81f8edb6
title: Climate delayers
uri: Climate-delayers
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Climate_delayers%29
content:
<p>
*Climate delayers are to blame for Britain’s lack of urgency <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/11/climate-delayers-are-to-blame-for-britains-lack-of-urgency-in-creating-a-green-plan">in creating a
green plan</a>.*


feed_id: 9fc75997a85740a2e91ed369261607b1
title: Fanatical anti-vaxxers vandals
uri: Fanatical-anti-vaxxers-vandals
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#13_August_2021_%28Fanatical_anti-vaxxers_vandals%29
content:
<p>
Fanatical anti-vaxxers in France have vandalized vaccination centers,
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-france-vandalism/french-covid-19-centres-hit-by-anti-vaccine-vandalism-idUSKBN2FC199">and in a few cases actually sabotaged them</a>.


feed_id: 2738acc0f5c7da8aeb44507d2265addd
title: Prescribed burns
uri: Prescribed-burns
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Prescribed_burns%29
content:
<p>

The enormous "Bootleg" fire did little harm to one area of forest that has been
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/12/the-fire-moved-around-it-success-story-in-oregon-fuels-calls-for-prescribed-burns">managed by prescribed burns</a>.


feed_id: 98f647e8ed411cc8b2f1a17696b5e3ea
title: Afghan women
uri: 2021-08-15-Afghan-women
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Afghan_women%29
content:
<p>

Afghan women are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/12/i-worry-my-daughters-will-never-know-peace-women-flee-the-taliban-again-afghanistan">fleeing in terror</a> of the Taliban's violence,
which includes rape and worse.  But they have nowhere to go.
<p>
You don't hurt the Taliban by jumping off a roof.  If instead you run
out and shoot them until they kill you, you might do them damage, and
you'll have a faster death.  Taliban might be dissuaded from forcing
women into "marriage" if the women stabbed them in the night.
<p>
If the Afghans who don't want Taliban rule had been motivated to die
fighting, they could have won the war.  The sad fact is that they were
not generally so motivated.


feed_id: 390598df43bc805285b0464d077d593b
title: This was avoidable
uri: This-was-avoidable
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28This_was_avoidable%29
content:
<p>

*"This Was Avoidable," <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/11/was-avoidable-climate-activists-say-about-apocalyptic-un-climate-report">Climate Activists Say</a> About Apocalyptic UN
Climate Report.*


feed_id: 3ab4d83dcf15a63b34c6afd090dd7c49
title: RNA vaccine expansion
uri: RNA-vaccine-expansion
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28RNA_vaccine_expansion%29
content:
<p>

Scientists call on Biden to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/11/200-scientists-groups-implore-biden-ramp-mrna-vaccine-production-world">expand US capacity to make RNA vaccines</a>
to 8 billion doses per year.
<p>
That's enough to vaccinate half the world each year.  Of course,
other countries should make vaccine factories too.


feed_id: 11233289c818125980954bf75b3998ad
title: The reason fires get so big
uri: The-reason-fires-get-so-big
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28The_reason_fires_get_so_big%29
content:
<p>

Many big wildfires are started by arsonists, but that's nothing new.
The <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/11/world/wildfires-climate-change-arson-explainer-intl/index.html">reason fires get so big nowadays is global heating</a>.


feed_id: 886067355c9d5e61fb307beba3f29ad6
title: Pipeline revenue
uri: Pipeline-revenue
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Pipeline_revenue%29
content:
<p>

Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change said that Canada
needs to build the Trans Mountain Pipeline in order to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/10/canadian-official-says-trans-mountain-pipeline-revenue-needed-fight-climate-crisis">get revenue to end the use of fossil fuels</a>.
<p>
*   Just £145m of UK budget went on environment, with <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/12/uk-spending-far-more-on-polluting-policies-than-green-ones-wwf">£40bn spent on
   emissions-increasing measures</a>*.


feed_id: fc53e69b19dd97802ef0527e7ff2fccf
title: (satire) Rise up, Patriots!
uri: (satire)-Rise-up-Patriots
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Rise_up%2C_Patriots%21%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *<a href="https://www.theonion.com/rise-up-patriots-rand-paul-calls-to-intubated-patie-1847451937">"Rise Up, Patriots!"</a> Rand Paul Calls To Intubated Patients
Lying Unconscious In Hospital ICU.*


feed_id: 22eb768e4f72e31ec73009af9f490837
title: (satire) Somber reminder
uri: (satire)-Somber-reminder
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Somber_reminder%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *Cuomo Scandal A <a href="https://www.theonion.com/cuomo-scandal-a-somber-reminder-that-leaders-bad-at-job-1847459208">Somber Reminder</a> That Leaders Bad At Job Can
Have Dark Side Too.*


feed_id: 7de7f591f34a9f38837edf757086d650
title: Money for vaccine in budget plan
uri: Money-for-vaccine-in-budget-plan
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Money_for_vaccine_in_budget_plan%29

content:
<p>

*Groups to Congress: Include <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/10/groups-congress-include-34-billion-global-vaccine-production-35-trillion-budget-plan">$34 Billion for Global Vaccine Production</a> in $3.5
Trillion Budget Plan.*


feed_id: 02f2116fbc119c5058242216ff8c9fe9
title: Lessons for war against greenhouse gases
uri: Lessons-for-war-against-greenhouse-gases
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Lessons_for_war_against_greenhouse_gases%29

content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/09/earth-edge-climate-crisis-must-be-treated-outbreak-world-war">Lessons from World War II</a> for the war against greenhouse gases.


feed_id: 38fb5d6c03195817ae1054c08fc33144
title: Tigray's lack of food
uri: Tigray-s-lack-of-food
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Tigray%27s_lack_of_food%29
content:
<p>

Despite Tigray's military victories, the people there <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/09/over-100-children-killed-attacks-amid-disastrous-tigray-conflict-unicef">still lack food</a>.
<p>
I am curious about the cause.  Are foreign powers choosing not to aid
Tigray?  Are Ethiopia and Eritrea blocking transport of food aid?


feed_id: 2af31b6032d1bf543e255a718823403e
title: (satire) Remember the good times
uri: (satire)-Remember-the-good-times
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Remember_the_good_times%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *Latest Climate Change Report Just Heartfelt Farewell Letter
Telling Humanity To <a href="https://www.theonion.com/latest-climate-change-report-just-heartfelt-farewell-le-1847450406">Remember The Good Times</a>.*


feed_id: db2ecebdcce3c545a0a0e5fd15c7361d
title: Vaccine patents in Brazil
uri: Vaccine-patents-in-Brazil
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Vaccine_patents_in_Brazil%29
content:
<p>

Brazil's Congress has passed a law to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-brazil-vaccines/brazil-senate-approves-bill-that-could-allow-coronavirus-vaccine-patents-to-be-broken-idUSKBN2FD01M">suspend vaccine patents</a> and require
cooperation with local manufacture.
I am not confident that Brazil could make US and European vaccine
monopolists comply, but if there is a chance, bravo for trying.


feed_id: 317c9c4026c3477ecda7cf305ccf50da
title: UK civil service positions
uri: UK-civil-service-positions
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28UK_civil_service_positions%29
content:
<p>

The UK government says it will <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-britain-civil-service-layoffs/british-ministers-drawing-up-plans-to-cut-thousands-of-civil-service-jobs-the-times-idUSKBN2FC2H5">eliminate many civil service positions</a>.
<p>
Supposedly this is to reduce the number of workers, but I think that they
can't do it.  The jobs need to be done.
<p>
I predict that the state will replace these well-paid positions with
subcontracted workers.  That will make the work get done worse, but
cost less.


feed_id: 2a36ca576ad54d3a402b20a77b290158
title: Respect for civilians
uri: Respect-for-civilians
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Respect_for_civilians%29
content:
<p>

Taliban leaders say that their soldiers <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-taliban/taliban-denies-killing-civilians-calls-for-independent-inquiry-idUSKBN2FC2B7">respect civilians</a> and do no
violence to them.
<p>
The US government <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jan-apr.html#8_April_2020_(More_civilians_killing)">denies and covers up harm done to civilians</a>,
so it is not impossible that the Taliban leadership does likewise.
<p>
However, it is likely that there is a disconnect between the official
policy of the Taliban and what Taliban soldiers actually do.  This
tends to happen in all armies.  To order soldiers not to kill, rape or
rob civilians is easy; actually stopping them is difficult.


feed_id: 7feeff22556b9e25f47238239c9909ea
title: Toxic culture
uri: Toxic-culture
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Toxic_culture%29
content:
<p>

The incoming governor of New York says she will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/11/kathy-hochul-new-york-governor-in-waiting">eliminate the "toxic
culture"</a> that Governor Cuomo created, and used to pressure women for
sex.
<p>
That is the right thing to about the point.  However, I wonder where
Governor Hochul stands on issues of plutocracy and confronting
business power.


feed_id: 32b8ff1267469f547cca7fbc94569bd4
title: Coal power plants in Asia
uri: Coal-power-plants-in-Asia
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Coal_power_plants_in_Asia%29
content:
<p>

Various large banks plan to buy coal power plants in Asia and
shut them down &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/03/uk-finance-giants-plan-to-buy-out-fossil-fuel-plants-in-order-to-shut-them">in 15 years</a>!
<p>
15 years is too late.  The purchase could easily backfire, as these
new owners would have an interest in operating the plants as long
as they are profitable.


feed_id: b6af40c97c236135b5fecd789b1f4a89
title: Undermining the EPA
uri: Undermining-the-EPA
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Undermining_the_EPA%29
content:
<p>

Chemical manufacturers have <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/04/epa-hair-on-fire-chemicals-leaked-audio/">undermined the integrity of the EPA</a>.  They
can apply so much pressure to approve a chemical that the agency does
not dare disobey or even hesitate.
<p>
We must make sure that the EPA can do its job.  As a first step, the
EPA should eliminate all promises of confidentiality to manufacturers.
Such commitments give the companies too much power.  Instead, the EPA
must always reserve the right to show the public all that it knows
about a chemical's effects.
<p>
The only kind of confidentiality that it has a duty to respect is
about the individual subjects in a medical experiment.


feed_id: 69249c2f9e385fbfaf006512595095d7
title: Colombian top general
uri: Colombian-top-general
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Colombian_top_general%29
content:
<p>

*Colombian top general Mario Montoya <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/04/mario-montoya-colombia-false-positives-scandal">faces murder charges</a> in "false
positives" scandal.*


feed_id: b330fbfeae514bd11a06f6ac1fd304ca
title: Gig workers as employees
uri: Gig-workers-as-employees
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Gig_workers_as_employees%29
content:
<p>

When California legislated to treat gig workers as employees, the
gig-work companies spent enormous sums to mislead the public into
override that decision.  Now they are preparing to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/04/tech/uber-lyft-doordash-massachusetts-ballot-gig-economy/index.html">do it again in
Massachusetts</a>.
<p>
These <a href="uber.html">companies</a> mistreat passengers as well as drivers.
The <a href="food-delivery.html">food delivery companies</a> mistreat restaurants, too.
<p>
It would be great if making them pay decent money made those
companies disappear, but I don't expect that to happen.
I think they are exaggerating for effect.


feed_id: e85645e70d2bed2cb8331a4b8c034fc0
title: Particulate pollution
uri: Particulate-pollution
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Particulate_pollution%29
content:
<p>

Particulate pollution from giant wildfires seems to be promoting
Covid-19 infections, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/13/wildfire-smoke-covid-infections-deaths-study">making the symptoms worse</a> so that more
patients die.


feed_id: 720135423234b6fcf798eef5c6bc0da6
title: The hottest month
uri: The-hottest-month
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28The_hottest_month%29
content:
<p>

July was the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/13/july-worlds-hottest-month-ever-recorded-us-scientists">hottest month</a> since record keeping became sufficient to
measure.


feed_id: 324f309d4e4fb5e5c896bfd0506538db
title: Covid-control measures in Alberta
uri: Covid-control-measures-in-Alberta
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#14_August_2021_%28Covid-control_measures_in_Alberta%29

content:
<p>

Alberta's right-wing government <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-canada-schools-coronavirus/alberta-backtracks-on-covid-19-curbs-as-canadian-provinces-hospitalizations-jump-idUSKBN2FE1PP">dropped the plan</a> to eliminate the main
Covid-control measures, as Covid is surging there.


feed_id: cc248e8dea0e79c2504e775878d73cee
title: Urgent: Rally for Julian Assange
uri: Urgent-Rally-for-Julian-Assange
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Rally_for_Julian_Assange%29

content:
<p>
Boston area: come to the rally for Julian Assange
August 16 from 4:30pm to 6pm in Boston Common, next to the entrance
of Park St Station.


feed_id: 3c717239406ace25000fb504702d44ed
title: Urgent: Cut the new Navy nuke
uri: Urgent-Cut-the-new-Navy-nuke
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Cut_the_new_Navy_nuke%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/cut-new-navy-nuke-pentagon-budget">cut the new Navy nuke from the
Pentagon budget</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: f2d8e63772b8ca47beff0a12d7ba1b15
title: Urgent: Allow the NYU Ad Observer to study Facebook
uri: Urgent-Allow-the-NYU-Ad-Observer-to-study-Facebook
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Allow_the_NYU_Ad_Observer_to_study_Facebook%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Zuckerberg to allow the NYU Ad Observer team to
<a href="https://act.freepress.net/go/48798?t=1007&akid=18446%2E9489429%2E3NdKyf">study Facebook once again</a>.
<p>
Meanwhile, as always, don't be a zucker &mdash; don't be a <a href="https://stallman.org/facebook.html">used of
Facebook</a>.


feed_id: 449c879ad86c9fc1d80cb3520645251b
title: Urgent: Fire DeJoy now
uri: Urgent-Fire-DeJoy-now
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Fire_DeJoy_now%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Biden to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-fire-louis-dejoy-now-we-cannot-afford-to-keep-him-around-2">fire DeJoy now</a>.


feed_id: cfc2f311f5e59e95cbeda04d0e0cee21
title: Virus origins debate
uri: Virus-origins-debate
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Virus_origins_debate%29
content:
<p>

*WHO seeks to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-origins-who/who-seeks-to-take-political-heat-out-of-virus-origins-debate-idUSKBN2FE1I4">take political heat out</a> of [SARS-COV-2] virus origins debate.*
<p>
I am in favor of this.  To determine the origin of the virus will be
useful for science, and may teach us some important precautions for
future research, but it surely won't inculpate any government of anything
worse than a mistake.


feed_id: a140686c493f9468d7bbef5324d6b2f5
title: Instability across Africa
uri: Instability-across-Africa
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Instability_across_Africa%29
content:
<p>

*   Analysts and experts are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/13/an-economic-calamity-africa-faces-years-of-post-covid-instability">warning of many years of instability across
   Africa</a>, possibly leading to wars and political upheavals, as the
   economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic deepens across the continent.*
<p>
Other likely causes of instability in Africa include climate
breakdown, Islamist guerrilla movements, and in some places population
growth.  They all work together.


feed_id: e1cb5503ca93ac6cbca9cc6a89decc1d
title: Slowing vaccination of the rest of the world
uri: Slowing-vaccination-of-the-rest-of-the-world
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Slowing_vaccination_of_the_rest_of_the_world%29

content:
<p>

Giving booster vaccinations to millions of people in wealthy countries
will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/aug/13/covid-booster-jabs-for-rich-countries-will-cause-more-deaths-worldwide-say-experts">slow the vaccination of the rest of the world</a>.
<p>
The main cause of this problem is that each kind of vaccine is a
monopoly and that the manufacture of the best vaccines is being
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jul-oct.html#2_September_2020_(International_cooperation)">artificially held back</a>.
It is surely no coincidence that the vaccine companies are <a href="https://www.stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#5_August_2021_(Vaccine_prices_hike)">taking
advantage or raise prices</a>
because <a href="https://www.stallman.org/archives/2021-jan-apr.html#14_January_2021_(Artificial_obstacles_to_producing_Covid-19_vaccine)">charging more is the whole point</a>.
<p>
Using more doses for people vaccinated people, aside from special
cases, would exacerbate this effect.
<p>
The one factor that might override this is if a third dose will
make it almost impossible for a vaccinated person to contract Covid-19.
If so, the third dose might be necessary for a country to become
Covid-free and thus protect its unvaccinatable population.
<p>
I do not use the word "jab" to refer to an injection.
To me, "jab" means a kind of attack.


feed_id: 4d0daf39f1e7071b82430fc3aeafaae8
title: Misogyny of Afghanistan
uri: Misogyny-of-Afghanistan
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Misogyny_of_Afghanistan%29
content:
<p>

The misogyny of Afghanistan is horrible; the Taliban <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/13/nowhere-to-go-divorced-afghan-women-in-peril-as-the-taliban-close-in">make it even worse</a>.
<p>
It might have been possible to defeat the Taliban by supporting a
radical secularist movement and army like Rojava.  But there was no
way to do that after putting Afghanistan in the hands of the
not-quite-so-radical anti-Taliban rulers.


feed_id: fcd83c047f6aaea62fe077205ed7dd38
title: Inflation is not the problem
uri: Inflation-is-not-the-problem
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Inflation_is_not_the_problem%29
content:
<p>

*The problem isn't "inflation."  It’s that most Americans <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/13/joe-biden-spending-plans-inflation-debt-fears-misplaced">aren’t paid enough</a>.*
<p>
This reflects the political power of the rich, who use their influence
to set up systems to concentrate wealth.  Concentrating wealth works
by directing more of the total income to rich people and companies
(whose shares are mainly owned by rich people), and that means less of
the total income to the non-rich.


feed_id: 557c28a1bc28e87e1563b466ecb116d7
title: Chemicals in sunscreen
uri: Chemicals-in-sunscreen
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Chemicals_in_sunscreen%29
content:
<p>

Some <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/06/lotion-in-the-ocean-is-your-sunscreen-killing-the-sea">chemicals in sunscreen kill coral</a> (and various other animals
found in reefs) even in minuscule amounts such as 60 parts per
trillion. However, if we want to save coral reefs, the main thing we must do
is <a href="https://www.stallman.org/archives/2019-jan-apr.html#17_January_2019_(Great_Barrier_Reef_coral_bleaching)">curb global heating</a>,
and specifically the emission of CO2, which makes the ocean more
acid and will eventually kill all coral.
<p> 
*Fears over lax US standards <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/aug/06/fears-over-lax-us-standards-prompts-bill-on-chemical-safety-from-senators">prompts bill</a> on chemical safety of beauty
products.*


feed_id: 3caa88022150187d4e6dc2251aa7de83
title: Obstacles to humanitarian aid
uri: Obstacles-to-humanitarian-aid
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Obstacles_to_humanitarian_aid%29
content:
<p>

Here's some information on <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/06/ethiopia-suspends-aid-groups-for-spreading-misinformation">political obstacles</a> to humanitarian aid in and near
Tigray.


feed_id: ae99416ceccef85ed935b36c7f561132
title: Turkey's forest fire planning
uri: Turkey-s-forest-fire-planning
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Turkey%27s_forest_fire_planning%29

content:
<p>

Turkey planned for zero forest fires this year, and <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-turkey-wildfire-resources/turkey-spent-only-fraction-of-forest-protection-budget-before-wildfires-erupted-idUSKBN2F70QT">failed to carry out</a>
the insufficient preparations and purchases it had budgeted for.


feed_id: c1fc6528bef72f955f9b54e141157a7b
title: Powerful rifles sold in the US
uri: Powerful-rifles-sold-in-the-US
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Powerful_rifles_sold_in_the_US%29
content:
<p>

Powerful rifles that can fire very fast, and penetrate bulletproof vests,
are sold to civilians in the US.  <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-mexico-arms-barrett/weapon-of-war-the-u-s-rifle-loved-by-drug-cartels-and-feared-by-mexican-police-idUSKBN2F7151">Smuggled into Mexico</a>, they enable drug gangs
to outshoot most cops.


feed_id: 8df5e6ec3efe72b3e4aa798a8a468165
title: Mexico suing gun manufacturers
uri: Mexico-suing-gun-manufacturers
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Mexico_suing_gun_manufacturers%29
content:
<p>

US guns, including powerful rifles that can fire very fast and
penetrate bulletproof vests, are sold to civilians in the US.
Smuggled into Mexico, they enable drug gangs to outshoot most cops.
Mexico is <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-mexico-arms-barrett/weapon-of-war-the-u-s-rifle-loved-by-drug-cartels-and-feared-by-mexican-police-idUSKBN2F7151">suing the manufacturers</a>.
<p>
It <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/06/american-guns-mexico-illegal-weapons">probably can't win</a> such a lawsuit,
but it would be good for the US as well to prohibit their sale to
anyone but the military and SWAT teams.  And even the latter should be
carefully limited.


feed_id: 23a708309869044f788b97b29ea54649
title: Covid-19 infection measurements
uri: Covid-19-infection-measurements
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Covid-19_infection_measurements%29

content:
<p>

The CDC has stopped collecting information about <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/06/cdc-covid-coronavirus-data-breakthrough-cases">Covid-19 infections
in vaccinated people</a>.  This means we can't measure that danger any
more.


feed_id: 638966b0923391d984f4ab5d79e05935
title: UK libel law
uri: 2021-08-16-UK-libel-law
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28UK_libel_law%29
content:
<p>

UK libel law makes it too easy to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/06/free-speech-london-libel-industry-putin-journalism">intimidate journalists</a> around the
world into silence.  Even a case that can't win is too expensive for
any defendant to oppose.


feed_id: 016c8c622d11548a24bde63fb7f792b5
title: Hungary censorship of books
uri: Hungary-censorship-of-books
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Hungary_censorship_of_books%29
content:
<p>

Hungary has legislated indirect <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hungary-lgbt-books/hungarian-booksellers-fear-self-censorship-as-decree-curbs-sale-of-lgbtq-themed-books-idUSKBN2FE1CI">censorship of books</a> that deal with
homosexuality or transgenderism, because they could be judged to
"promote" them, and then many book stores will be forbidden to sell them.


feed_id: e6ad35f531afb5b884dd0be24414c0b8
title: Soldiers of Tlaxcala
uri: Soldiers-of-Tlaxcala
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Soldiers_of_Tlaxcala%29
content:
<p>

Mexicans anachronistically and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/13/mexico-tlaxcala-aztec-empire-anniversary">misguidedly judge as "traitors"</a> the
soldiers of Tlaxcala, who joined with the Spaniards to overthrow the
hated Aztec empire.
<p>
The Mexica rulers periodically ordered Tlaxcala to send some of its
finest young men to fight a rigged ceremonial battle against young
Mexica.  The Mexica men had real weapons, the Tlaxcalans imitation
weapons.  After the latter almost inevitably lost, the Mexica killed
them by cutting out their hearts.  The lords of Tlaxcala were forced
to sit and watch the whole proceedings.
<p>
After the Spaniards conquered, they enslaved most of the indigenous
peoples of Mexico and worked them harshly; they intentionally killed
some people, and unintentionally killed a great many.
<p>
Which empire was worse?  I can't judge.  But Mexicans today have no
reason to feel a loyalty to the Mexica empire of 1520.


feed_id: 2ec1f70c3685fabe1b30f27451c110e7
title: Rahul Gandi twitter account
uri: Rahul-Gandi-twitter-account
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Rahul_Gandi_twitter_account%29
content:
<p>

Rahul Gandhi, leader of India's opposition Congress Party, accused Modi
of <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/india-twitter-congress/indias-rahul-gandhi-says-blocked-by-twitter-for-political-reasons-idUSKBN2FE0UR">making Twitter lock his account</a>.
<p>
Protecting crime victims' privacy is proper when that's what they want;
however, blocking them from communicating to the public in the name of
their privacy is absurd.


feed_id: 61cc9195766d01f54997f87fa287ccb6
title: Labour party's left wing
uri: Labour-party-s-left-wing
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Labour_party%27s_left_wing%29
content:
<p>

The Labour Party is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/aug/14/director-ken-loach-expelled-labour-party">expelling its left wing</a>, including many supporters
of Corbyn.  Some are being purged for not supporting the purges.
<p>
Apparently it aims to become a timid party that fusses about small
disagreements.


feed_id: 94138c77268bdda99c19e850bb035460
title: Russia's repression of the press
uri: Russia-s-repression-of-the-press
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Russia%27s_repression_of_the_press%29

content:
<p>

Russia's <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2021/aug/14/bbc-journalist-sarah-rainsford-speaks-of-increasingly-repressive-russia-ahead-of-expulsion">repression of the press</a> more and more resembles the Soviet Union's.


feed_id: 4076224fc535a3425982a80c9c080363
title: FBI Scam
uri: FBI-Scam
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28FBI_Scam%29
content:
<p>

*The Most High-Profile Al Qaeda Plot Foiled After 9/11 Was an <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/14/911-al-qaeada-fbi-liberty-city-seven/">FBI Scam</a>.*
And so were many others &mdash; I've covered a number of them here.
<p>
Whenever the FBI claims to have caught terrorists plotters, I think
of this pattern and I wonder whether the supposed terrorists were really
going to do anything.


feed_id: b6a744cbef9607ebb02cf18f0b259f23
title: Defeating the Taliban
uri: Defeating-the-Taliban
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Defeating_the_Taliban%29
content:
<p>

Daniel L Davis, formerly a US Lieutenant Colonel who served in
Afghanistan, writes that it was clear 10 years ago that the Afghan
government forces had <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/14/afghanistan-taliban-us-troops">no chance of defeating the Taliban</a>, and the US
military and government persistently covered this up.


feed_id: a8dbfd42e8c6abbfa52be6963861a30e
title: (satire) Arts District
uri: (satire)-Arts-District
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Arts_District%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *Real Estate Developers Decide Colorful Bench Enough To Deem
Area <a href="https://www.theonion.com/real-estate-developers-decide-colorful-bench-enough-to-1847409845">"Arts District."</a>*


feed_id: 49d354d616c29d13cc75938b02252e9b
title: Safety and Homeland Security
uri: Safety-and-Homeland-Security
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Safety_and_Homeland_Security%29
content:
<p>

*The Tennessee Department of "Safety and Homeland Security" <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/11/tennessee-compiled-secret-dossiers-civil-rights-protesters">kept
secret files on civil rights protesters</a>, as if they were some sort
of threat to society.*


feed_id: 1be3493c20400218169109225e1da96c
title: Unfair US medical care
uri: Unfair-US-medical-care
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Unfair_US_medical_care%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/inequality/2021/aug/14/women-fighting-covid-recovery-fair">Unfairness in access to medical care</a> in the US was so great, before
the pandemic, that "going back to normal" is not a good goal.


feed_id: 7a7914522dbf89e7b5c27aa026b9f87c
title: Eliminating public schools
uri: Eliminating-public-schools
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Eliminating_public_schools%29
content:
<p>

Koch and his right-wing supporters are operating a long-term plan to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/11/koch-network-infiltration-public-schools-harms-students-teachers-and-our-democracy">eliminate
public schools</a> and replace it with "whatever education you can afford."
<p>
Americans use to believe that a well-educated citizenry was crucial
for good government, and establishing good public schools was
fundamental to that.


feed_id: 1458ced0aeddf85326b3c0e274cc7a4e
title: Scanning whatever a government demands
uri: Scanning-whatever-a-government-demands
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Scanning_whatever_a_government_demands%29

content:
<p>

*Once it is built into phones, Macs and even watches, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/14/sexual-abuse-images-apple-tech-giant-iphones-us-surveillance">Apple's new
   system</a> could scan for whatever else &mdash; or whoever else &mdash; a government
   demands..*


feed_id: ceaf7cabe814ccf51a185b2a3b53be2b
title: Biden's priorities
uri: Biden-s-priorities
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#15_August_2021_%28Biden%27s_priorities%29
content:
<p>

We can see Biden's priorities by his decision to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/11/utter-lack-credibility-climate-leader-biden-pressures-opec-pump-more-oil">ask OPEC to pump more
oil</a>, to stimulate "economic recovery", rather than to use the high
gasoline prices to stimulate reduced use of fossil fuels.


feed_id: 193612f3c26e82325c7b104d72901bd9
title: Can't fight climate crisis with austerity
uri: Can-t-fight-climate-crisis-with-austerity
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Can%27t_fight_climate_crisis_with_austerity%29

content:
<p>
*UK <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/14/uk-fight-climate-crisis-austerity-government-treasury-green-spending-net-zero-nicholas-stern">can’t fight climate crisis with austerity</a>, warns expert.*


feed_id: 9c3357d93cefe9c9c18cb92341424ba6
title: Antichrist
uri: Antichrist
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Antichrist%29
content:
<p>
Conjecture: Republicans adore the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#bully">bully</a> because they see him as the
Antichrist.  <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/13/donald-j-antichrist-and-end-times">They are proud of being a death cult</a>.


feed_id: a73fb9ba845f8960b77dd67faf976e30
title: Taliban
uri: 2021-08-16-Taliban
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Taliban%29
content:
<p>
Juan Cole describes how US troops occupying Afghanistan turned the
people against them and built support for the Taliban.  He also asserts that
the whole thing was a continuing swindle, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/13/us-empires-afghan-ponzi-scheme-comes-ignoble-end">and that it had to end some day</a>.

<p>
*Taliban surge <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-failure/taliban-surge-exposes-failure-of-u-s-efforts-to-build-afghan-army-idUSKBN2FG03U">exposes failure of U.S. efforts to build Afghan army</a>.*


feed_id: be56fa4e31aa38f9b0d61eb57da3b24e
title: Tiny driver
uri: Tiny-driver
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Tiny_driver%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/new-ford-f-450-promises-to-make-driver-look-ever-so-tin-1847430684">satire</a>) *New Ford F-450 Promises To Make Driver Look Ever So Tiny.*


feed_id: fa5ef7150d9f69a3b78296a61f89b4cf
title: Thugs prosecuted for extracting false confession
uri: Thugs-prosecuted-for-extracting-false-confession
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Thugs_prosecuted_for_extracting_false_confession%29

content:
<p>
Three ex-<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> in Philadelphia are being prosecuted for coercing an
innocent man <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/14/us/philadelphia-former-police-detectives-perjury/index.html">into signing a false confession for rape and murder</a>.


feed_id: a2c39db168df096d61a024ca160fe79f
title: Penguin overheat
uri: Penguin-overheat
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Penguin_overheat%29
content:
<p>
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">Global heating</a> effects is making penguins overheat; when it gets worse
it is likely to kill them.  If there are any left &mdash; <a href="https://www.cnn.com/interactive/2021/08/weather/antarctica-climate-change-cnnphotos/">because heating is
reducing the krill that the penguins eat</a>.


feed_id: 0b6e19dc7df389ec8a7a9e52e9a2aa7c
title: Converting to fossil fuels
uri: Converting-to-fossil-fuels
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Converting_to_fossil_fuels%29
content:
<p>
Modi plans to spend the next three decades <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-modi/modi-says-india-will-soon-unveil-1-35-trln-infrastructure-plan-idUSKBN2FG02W">converting India to
different ways of using fossil fuel</a>.

<p>
He plans to switch to natural gas, which leaks methane (<a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-may-aug.html#11_August_2021_(Avert_climate_hell)">which is the highest
priority to stop emitting</a>),
  plus hydrogen, which I expect he plans to generate from fossil fuels,
perhaps using carbon capture and storage to reduce the CO2 emissions
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jan-apr.html#19_January_2021_(Carbon_capture)">if that technology ever works</a>.


feed_id: f06c87cfe468ab7e6fb1726e41b47788
title: Fighting Olympic Games
uri: Fighting-Olympic-Games
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Fighting_Olympic_Games%29
content:
<p>
The people of Los Angeles are fighting <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/15/los-angeles-olympics-2028-housing-crisis">to prevent Olympic Games from
afflicting their city</a>.

<p>
  "Olympics Kill the Poor", yes, but <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_July_2021_(End_to_the_Olympic_games)">they oppress lots of people they
don't kill</a>.


feed_id: 0241d19e580532e2ae42f09996e0a513
title: Taliban captured Kabul
uri: Taliban-captured-Kabul
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Taliban_captured_Kabul%29
content:
<p>
The Taliban <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-taliban/taliban-spokesman-says-the-war-is-over-in-afghanistan-al-jazeera-idUSKBN2FG0N5">have captured Kabul and announced victory</a>.
  The fighting seems to have ended.

<p>
The statement that they won't allow Afghanistan to be used to attack
other countries suggests that it will not let al-Qa'ida conduct
attacks from there.  I hope that the US and Afghanistan can make
peace.

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/15/the-fall-of-kabul-a-20-year-mission-collapses-in-a-single-day">More information</a>.

<p>
I expected the Afghan government to fall, when left to itself, but not
this fast.  The rapidity of the conquest may mean that many Afghans
who worked for the government or the NATO armies are trapped there.
Foreigners, too.  However, the Taliban seem to have said they will let
foreigners leave, and accept the service of the men that worked for
the old government, and even for foreign armies.

<p>
They say <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-taliban-promises/factbox-taliban-seek-to-present-a-moderate-face-as-they-take-control-in-afghanistan-idUSKBN2FG0GU">they will allow women to study and work</a>.
  Maybe they are starting to value the prosperity of the nation as a
goal, and appreciate that this depends on the contribution of women.
That would be repressive by our standards, but less so that the
Taliban of the 1990s.

<p>
I expect that these official Taliban statements are sincerely meant
by the leaders, but they will have to work hard to make Taliban
soldiers obey them.  (We see the same thing in the US Army.)

<p>
The news that the US has kept its embassy open is a good sign.
Vietnam and the US are allied now against the empire that Vietnamese
have fought for 2,000 years.
                              (This does not make Vietnam a free
country, <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2017-sep-dec.html#26_September_2017_(Repression_in_Vietnam)">not the slightest little bit</a>.)
                              It won't surprise me if someday I see
the Taliban and the US allied against that same empire.


feed_id: 21b0e40b30fb1048f7d3798ec0ffbf78
title: More fossil fuels
uri: More-fossil-fuels
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28More_fossil_fuels%29
content:
<p>
As Germany's economy recovers, it is headed <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/15/germany-set-for-biggest-rise-in-greenhouse-gases-for-30-years">for more fossil fuels, not
conservation</a>.


feed_id: 8ff3d412ce5057c7b27583a1f400178d
title: Cultural knowledge
uri: Cultural-knowledge
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Cultural_knowledge%29
content:
<p>
Many animal species, including vertebrates and invertebrates, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/13/culture-shock-how-loss-of-animals-shared-knowledge-threatens-their-survival">depend on
cultural knowledge to survive in the wild</a>.
  Preventing species's extinction sometimes requires helping the species
recover lost cultural knowledge.


feed_id: 2c1eea43467728e96a8eaed4156c99e5
title: Stateless babies
uri: Stateless-babies
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Stateless_babies%29
content:
<p>
Impecunious parents in the UAE can't get a birth certificate for their
baby until they pay the hospital bill, which is impossible.  (They lost
their jobs.)  <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/emirates-rights-int/migrants-unpaid-hospital-bills-a-barrier-to-birth-certificates-in-uae-idUSKBN2FD1N6">This renders the baby effectively stateless</a>.


feed_id: a8799051374c19bc0c8f8066fac95d72
title: Taliban and Al-Qe'ida
uri: Taliban-and-Al-Qe-ida
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Taliban_and_Al-Qe%27ida%29
content:
<p>
Speculation about how the Taliban <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/15/what-does-the-talibans-return-mean-for-al-qaida-in-afghanistan">will treat al-Qa'ida after taking
control of Afghanistan</a>.


feed_id: 84657bb852aed78375242cb748458b62
title: Deporting migrants without hearing
uri: Deporting-migrants-without-hearing
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Deporting_migrants_without_hearing%29

content:
<p>
Mexico is deporting migrants to Guatemala <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-immigration-mexico-flights/pressed-by-u-s-mexico-hastens-migrant-expulsions-with-flights-south-idUSKBN2FG0B1">without asylum hearings</a>,
   under pressure from the US.


feed_id: bb4f5ff86891a3907b5eb5fa42af8262
title: Arctic
uri: 2021-08-16-Arctic
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#16_August_2021_%28Arctic%29
content:
<p>
*The Arctic
   remains a place we barely understand.  "We are starting to understand it
   better, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/14/climate-crisis-arctic-wayne-davidson">but by the time we do it will be gone</a>."*

<p>
I wonder, would it be possible to make portable solar-powered freezer
units to generate and maintain floating ice pads for walruses?


feed_id: 94964050afb79b4cc5991ea40aa8fdaa
title: Ordering inoculation
uri: Ordering-inoculation
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#17_August_2021_%28Ordering_inoculation%29
content:
<p>
George Washington ordered that all soldiers in the Continental Army
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/08/11/george-washingtons-smallpox-inoculation-mandate.html">be inoculated against smallpox</a>.

<p>
Inoculation was the predecessor of vaccination, and it was somewhat
dangerous &mdash; though not as dangerous as smallpox itself.

<p>
That same reasoning is why everyone who has no medical reason not to be
vaccinated against Covid-19 has a duty to get vaccinated.


feed_id: 8a9b5e504142334774eff2d1d4d3ebd2
title: Full-scale war on truth
uri: Full-scale-war-on-truth
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#17_August_2021_%28Full-scale_war_on_truth%29
content:
<p>
*Coronavirus has created the perfect conditions for a full-scale war on truth.
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/15/europe/pandemic-presents-a-threat-to-truth-intl-cmd/index.html">Some politicians are siding with lies</a>.*


feed_id: 46961d394872ba306b4de7f957da8eb9
title: Extreme censorship law
uri: Extreme-censorship-law
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#17_August_2021_%28Extreme_censorship_law%29
content:
<p>
Canada is rushing an extreme censorship law, which would in practice <a href="https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2021/08/o-no-canada-fast-moving-proposal-creates-filtering-blocking-and-reporting-rules-1">require
automatic AI filters to block anything that seems questionable</a>.

<p>
All the usual problems, including precluding competitors with the Big
Tech companies, are present here.


feed_id: 09497723a73abfc55db91b5c1225bfcc
title: Operating at a loss
uri: Operating-at-a-loss
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#17_August_2021_%28Operating_at_a_loss%29
content:
<p>
Uber continues to operate at a loss, disguised by <a href="https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/08/hubert-horan-can-uber-ever-deliver-part-twenty-six-with-no-hope-of-real-profits-uber-and-lyft-double-down-on-fake-profit-metrics.html">accounting maneuvers</a>,
   and uses distractformation <a href="https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/08/hubert-horan-can-uber-ever-deliver-part-twenty-seven-despite-staggering-losses-the-uber-propaganda-train-keeps-rolling.html">so people will not notice</a>.

<p>
The first article says that Uber rides now often cost more than taxi
rides used to cost &mdash; which means that the supposed benefit for the
public is gone.  Apparent advantages for riders turn out to have
been a temporary loss-leader that could not continue.

<p>
Does this give us the ability to wipe out Uber and its surveillance?

<p>
It is possible to use taxis anonymously, but you need to do it the
right way.  You must (1) not use an app to call the taxi, (2) not
identify yourself by calling with your own phone or giving your own
name, and (3) pay <em>cash</em>.

<p>
Every time you leave the house, make sure you have enough cash
for your expected purchases, plus a sufficient amount for other
opportunity purchases.


feed_id: 45ce219f954793fb783a12d7b3a82445
title: What to do on climate
uri: What-to-do-on-climate
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#17_August_2021_%28What_to_do_on_climate%29
content:
<p>
*We Know What to Do on Climate. We Know How to Do It. <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/15/we-know-what-do-climate-we-know-how-do-it-only-question-will-we">Only Question: Will We</a>?*


feed_id: a85b1e94d3d1d7f794863d30a1191c1d
title: Negotiations
uri: Negotiations
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Negotiations%29
content:
<p>
The reason why the Taliban took over Afghanistan so fast is that the government
forces and Taliban forces in each area <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2021/08/16/afghanistan-history-taliban-collapse-504977">had negotiated deals in advance</a>.
  They had been negotiating for someday surrender for a year or so.

<p>
Something similar happened when the US conquered Afghanistan in 2002:
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2003-sep-dec.html#11 December 2003 (Afghan warlords)">local warlords switched sides</a>.
  This was well reported at the time; had US generals and
leaders forgotten this?

<p>
It is interesting that the Communist government held out much longer
without external support than the US-supported government did.  I know
of several factors that could have contributed to this.  For instance,
the Taliban are more united than the mujahideen were in 1992.  But I
wonder if one factor is that the Communists were fighting for
something they believed in.  The Afghan army was fighting only for
graft, and that graft was about to disappear.


feed_id: f11a9c68bf70071e92d8e4eb7e996319
title: Protected marine reserves
uri: Protected-marine-reserves
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Protected_marine_reserves%29
content:
<p>
Protected marine reserves benefit everyone, even fishermen, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/17/mallorca-marine-reserve-boosts-wildlife-as-well-as-business-report-finds">but the benefits
for them do not come immediately</a>.


feed_id: f1066f670c85c29738b6327f794ace2d
title: Poor people and Covid-19
uri: Poor-people-and-Covid-19
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Poor_people_and_Covid-19%29
content:
<p>
Poor people and descendants of disprivileged groups are much more
likely to die if they get Covid-19, but not for directly biological
reasons.  It is because social factors cause them <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/aug/17/inflamed-by-rupa-marya-and-raj-patel-review-covid-race-colonialism">to be less healthy
and get worse medical care</a>.


feed_id: 6577f5d2dc51719e2d76fc6e4c9cdd68
title: Firefighters burnouts
uri: Firefighters-burnouts
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Firefighters_burnouts%29
content:
<p>
So many wildfires, so hard to put out, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/17/mental-health-crisis-spreading-wildfire-fighters">are causing firefighters to
burn out</a>.


feed_id: 0455cc2842e703743e751e620b56cb00
title: Extreme heat and outdoor work
uri: Extreme-heat-and-outdoor-work
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Extreme_heat_and_outdoor_work%29
content:
<p>
*   By 2050, nearly 60% of [US] outdoor workers could experience at least one
   week [in each year] <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/17/outdoor-jobs-us-heat-impacts">when extreme heat makes it too dangerous to work</a>.*


feed_id: 588382dc60ded89892d047b5930b82cf
title: Greatest threats
uri: Greatest-threats
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Greatest_threats%29
content:
<p>
*In the post-9/11 era, our greatest threat <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/17/9-11-terrorism-us-national-security">isn't jihadist terrorism
 any more</a>.*

<p>
The major threat to US national security in the short term is <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-sep-dec.html#4_November_2020_(Democracy_is_threatened_in_the_US_and_globally)">the
Republican attack on democracy and truth</a>.

<p>
In a medium term, China is one major threat.  Others are plutocracy and
repression in the US, <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jul-oct.html#5_August_2020_(The_Age_of_Mass_Surveillance_Will_Not_Last_Forever)">including mass surveillance</a>.

<p>
In a longer term, <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-may-aug.html#27_July_2021_(Aiming_for_5C_of_global_heating)">the main threat is global heating</a>.


feed_id: c30818d6c773e843c7f8d7c14f6bdd16
title: Leaving Afghanistan
uri: Leaving-Afghanistan
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Leaving_Afghanistan%29
content:
<p>
Biden: *I stand squarely behind my decision.  After 20 years I've learned the
 hard way that there was never a good time to withdraw
 U.S. forces. <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-afghanistan-conflict/evacuation-flights-resume-at-kabul-airport-as-biden-defends-u-s-withdrawal-idUSKBN2FI0AY">That’s why we’re still there</a>.*

<p>
I agree.  The various things that may change for the worse
are not as bad as continuing the war that would have been.

<p>
Gorbachev: *They (NATO and the United States) should have admitted
failure earlier. The important thing now is to draw the lessons from
what happened <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-gorbachev/gorbachev-leader-who-pulled-soviets-from-afghanistan-says-u-s-campaign-was-doomed-from-start-idUSKBN2FI0VF">and make sure that similar mistakes are not repeated</a>.*

<p>
*More than 40,000 war-wounded <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-redcross/more-than-40000-war-wounded-treated-in-afghanistan-since-june-red-cross-idUSKBN2FI0SF">treated in Afghanistan since June</a>* &mdash; Red Cross.


feed_id: fe9e87616995a7e16ba8bccdbb1a4e99
title: Exxon building offshore oil extraction project
uri: Exxon-building-offshore-oil-extraction-project
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Exxon_building_offshore_oil_extraction_project%29

content:
<p>
Exxon is building a massive offshore oil extraction project which
could poison the local ecosystems, and the company is not properly
planning to deal with disastrous leaks.  Even worse, the resulting
increase in available oil <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/17/exxon-oil-drilling-guyana-disaster-risk">will make it harder to save civilization</a>.

<p>
By contrast, an energy company is cancelling plans for natural gas
exploration in Australia, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/aug/17/andrew-forrest-company-drops-wa-canning-basin-gas-exploration-plans-over-climate-concerns">because there is no room in the carbon budget
to extract and burn the gas that may be found there</a>.


feed_id: 236e29c8e8668cb77662f1c690d3eca8
title: Stop oil pipeline now
uri: Stop-oil-pipeline-now
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Stop_oil_pipeline_now%29
content:
<p>
*Let's heed the UN's dire warning <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/17/lets-heed-the-uns-dire-warning-and-stop-the-east-african-oil-pipeline-now">and stop the east African oil pipeline now</a>.*


feed_id: 5a8e94df12f471764f58083b364b0747
title: Judicial independence
uri: Judicial-independence
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Judicial_independence%29
content:
<p>
Poland yielded to the EU <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/17/poland-backs-down-in-row-with-eu-over-disciplining-judges">on an issue of judicial independence</a>.


feed_id: 405cffb0b763a2127407c38fb08e865a
title: Persecution
uri: Persecution
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Persecution%29
content:
<p>
Shi'ites of the Hazara ethnicity <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-afghanistan-conflict-australia-hazara/fears-abroad-for-fate-of-hazara-minority-as-taliban-take-control-idUSKBN2FI14O">may face persecution in Afghanistan</a>.

<p>
There was no way to avoid injustices like this in Afghanistan.
Propping up continued war was not a way &mdash; it caused other gross
injustices.

<p>
I wonder if there is a way to convince the Taliban through diplomacy
to respect the rights of Shi'ites, Hindus, and other religious minorities.


feed_id: 9e842849154adc2889c2d5f2cb303e31
title: Millionaires caucus
uri: Millionaires-caucus
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Millionaires_caucus%29
content:
<p>
For the Republican Millionaires Caucus, nothing is more important <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/06/report-spotlights-gop-millionaires-caucus-stands-benefit-obstructing-tax-hikes-rich">than
keeping millionaires' taxes down</a>.


feed_id: 10c4fad5ce34dca7145707e045100469
title: Opposition twitter accounts
uri: Opposition-twitter-accounts
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Opposition_twitter_accounts%29
content:
<p>
*Twitter reinstates accounts of India's <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/india-twitter-congress/twitter-reinstates-accounts-of-indias-rahul-gandhi-other-opposition-leaders-idUSKBN2FF0AM">Rahul Gandhi, other opposition
leaders</a>.*


feed_id: 7fde750c3ee6fe86d6936ee6b435b33d
title: After Guantanamo
uri: After-Guantanamo
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28After_Guantanamo%29
content:
<p>
5 years after release from Guantanamo prison, student researcher
Mansoor Adafyi who was treated by the US as a terrorist, is treated
now by Serbia like an unwelcome immigrant being pressured to leave,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/16/guantanamo-detainee-mansoor-adayfi">except that Serbia won't let him leave</a>.

<p>
Serbia does not allow him to work, and does not give him medical care.
I suspect that Serbia does this as part of a commitment to the US.


feed_id: d485030a066cf1e7f58c95fe69df8396
title: Shifting to risky areas
uri: Shifting-to-risky-areas
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Shifting_to_risky_areas%29
content:
<p>
*   Census data shows that Americans are shifting
   from safer areas of the US <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/16/us-climate-change-americans-census-data">to the regions most at risk of heating and
   flooding</a>.*


feed_id: 170ff255a13698eb9d837f11a30ccf0d
title: North China Plain
uri: North-China-Plain
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28North_China_Plain%29
content:
<p>

According to modeling, by the end of this century the <a href="https://news.mit.edu/2018/china-could-face-deadly-heat-waves-due-climate-change-0731">North China
Plain will suffer fatal weather</a>, before even the Persian Gulf and
India.


feed_id: 5805d67af73f295456cfac011e2f6412
title: Hydrogen for vehicles
uri: Hydrogen-for-vehicles
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Hydrogen_for_vehicles%29
content:
<p>

The UK government plans a massive shift to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/17/uk-homes-low-carbon-hydrogen-economy-jobs">using hydrogen as a fuel in
vehicles</a>.  The crucial issue is how to produce that hydrogen.
<p>
The inconvenience of making hydrogen by electrolysis is that it takes
a big investment.  We can be sure that the Tories will try to use
"blue" hydrogen as much as possible, as an excuse to include fossil
fuel despite pledges to decarbonize.
<p>
My opinion is, if survival of civilization requires this investment,
we must do it.


feed_id: b3781358573db59f7b79bf3bee49a268
title: Blowback in South Korea
uri: Blowback-in-South-Korea
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Blowback_in_South_Korea%29
content:
<p>

The withdrawal from Afghanistan is causing <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-southkorea/afghanistan-shows-need-for-u-s-to-give-s-korea-control-of-troops-lawmaker-says-idUSKBN2FJ10T">irrational blowback in
South Korea</a>.
<p>
The argument being made is, "If the US will give up on propping up a
government against a guerrilla after 20 years, maybe it will refuse to
support a bona-fide ally against an external invasion."  It seems
wildly irrational to me, but the fact it is being made is one aspect
of damage caused by the occupation of Afghanistan.
<p>
I have no opinion on the specific policy question being discussed.


feed_id: 6cfe83c9033da2f17696673c0d806e4d
title: Not wearing masks in UK Parliament
uri: Not-wearing-masks-in-UK-Parliament
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Not_wearing_masks_in_UK_Parliament%29

content:
<p>

Right-wing ministers are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/aug/18/ministers-accused-of-putting-staff-at-risk-by-not-wearing-masks-in-commons">risking spreading Covid-19 in the UK Parliament</a>
by not wearing masks.


feed_id: d7aaf982efab0c934a467f56c40827a8
title: Domestic violent extremism
uri: Domestic-violent-extremism
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Domestic_violent_extremism%29
content:
<p>

Black Lives Matter protesters who engaged in vandalism are being <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/18/civil-disorder-prosecutions-racial-justice-protests-extremism/">charged
with a federal felony, "domestic violent extremism"</a>.


feed_id: b36378f477c3d22c25942163ff035509
title: Vaccines for the good of all
uri: Vaccines-for-the-good-of-all
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Vaccines_for_the_good_of_all%29
content:
<p>

*Pope Francis <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-pope-vaccines/pope-francis-urges-everyone-to-get-covid-19-vaccines-for-the-good-of-all-idUSKBN2FJ0BD">urges everyone to get COVID-19 vaccines</a> for the good of all.*
<p>
I agree with him on most issues, the exception being those that relate
in some way to sex or children.


feed_id: e932ecbac56765c25bd6e7a108bea405
title: Safe passage undermined
uri: Safe-passage-undermined
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Safe_passage_undermined%29
content:
<p>

*   Taliban promises of “safe passage” to the Kabul airport for Afghans
   trying to flee the country <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/18/afghanistan-reports-emerge-of-taliban-beating-afghans-seeking-to-flee-kabul">have been undermined</a> by reports of women and
   children being beaten and whipped as they try to pass through
   checkpoints set up by the militants.*
<p>
If the Taliban leaders sincerely mean those promises, they need to exert
control quickly over their followers.


feed_id: 38fb3d2f4e0c0689dbd2628c36acb426
title: Migrants held outdoors
uri: Migrants-held-outdoors
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Migrants_held_outdoors%29
content:
<p>

The US border thugs <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/16/border-patrol-must-stop-holding-people-inhumane-conditions">hold migrants outdoors</a> underneath the Anzalduas
International Bridge.  They have to sleep on hard ground, subject to
whatever temperature there is, and have no communication or medical
attention.


feed_id: ccdfc390a2c0b2d2692ca452e8271ab5
title: (satire) Accurate picture of the U.S. government
uri: (satire)-Accurate-picture-of-the-U-S-government
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Accurate_picture_of_the_U.S._government%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *Critics Warn Withdrawal From Afghanistan
   <a href="https://www.theonion.com/critics-warn-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-paints-entirel-1847496343">Paints Entirely Accurate Picture</a> Of U.S. Government.*


feed_id: d812a69ae67d7a0cc2712c1ba2484d4d
title: Nobody is above the law
uri: Nobody-is-above-the-law
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Nobody_is_above_the_law%29
content:
<p>

Ralph Nader: *"Nobody Is Above the Law" &mdash; <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/14/nobody-above-law-except-biggest-corporate-and-goverment-criminals">Except the Biggest Corporate
and Government Criminals</a>.*
They expect impunity and they generally get it, even when they kill
hundreds, or thousands.
<p>
Nader presents examples such as <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#dubya">Dubya</a>, DeSantis, Abbott and Boeing.


feed_id: 4f3935b36a48ac3cf67283255d3523a4
title: Governor of Texas has Covid-19
uri: Governor-of-Texas-has-Covid-19
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Governor_of_Texas_has_Covid-19%29
content:
<p>

Governor Abbott of Texas <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/17/texas-governor-greg-abbott-coronavirus-covid-tests-positive">has got Covid-19</a>.
Since he is vaccinated, he probably won't have grave symptoms.
Too bad, because his death could save the lives of many other Texans
who will catch Covid-19 due to Abbott's pro-spreading policies.
<p>
If Abbott dies from Covid-19 (though that is not likely for someone
vaccinated), will the death cult adulate him as a martyr, someone to
imitate?  Or will it scorn him for being vaccinated?
<p>
If he recovers, will his example be touted as proof that "Covid-19 is
not dangerous," or presented to show that vaccination reduces the
danger?


feed_id: a6bcde6caee1aeab0bc866e1e24d2153
title: U.S. Military biometrics devices
uri: U-S-Military-biometrics-devices
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28U.S._Military_biometrics_devices%29

content:
<p>

*The Taliban Have <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/17/afghanistan-taliban-military-biometrics/">Seized U.S. Military Biometrics Devices</a>.*  They can be used
to check people against the  biometric ID cards that the US handed out.
Perhaps the Taliban will be able to use this system to identify Afghans
that worked for the NATO military.


feed_id: 3ab7f32fb2315b9008683b1b7e0d66fd
title: Facebook stifling Taliban free speech
uri: Facebook-stifling-Taliban-free-speech
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Facebook_stifling_Taliban_free_speech%29

content:
<p>

*Taliban Spokesman Accuses Facebook of <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/17/taliban-spokesman-accuses-facebook-stifling-free-speech-banning-group/">Stifling Free Speech</a> by Banning Group.*
<p>
This is hypocritical, since the Taliban censor other religions, and Atheism.


feed_id: 61039637dfc3c33ffd73fefd91aa739a
title: Right-wing Democrats
uri: 2021-08-19-Right-wing-Democrats
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Right-wing_Democrats%29
content:
<p>

Rep. Jayapal denounced the idea that <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/16/jayapal-says-theres-nothing-moderate-about-tanking-medicare-expansion-climate-action">right-wing Democrats are "moderate"</a>.


feed_id: 06378643e18ba52615849afc309ae962
title: After Cuba protests
uri: After-Cuba-protests
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28After_Cuba_protests%29
content:
<p>

*One month after Cuba protests, hundreds <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cuba-unrest/one-month-after-cuba-protests-hundreds-remain-behind-bars-idUSKBN2FD1TP">remain behind bars</a>.*


feed_id: f20588582bd1244563dcb3d1bad04839
title: Children separated at the border
uri: Children-separated-at-the-border
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Children_separated_at_the_border%29

content:
<p>

*US officials still <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/12/migrant-children-separated-parents-border-trump">cannot find the parents of 337 children</a> separated at
the Mexico-border by the [<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#bully">bully</a>'s] administration.*


feed_id: 164a7b9f9af6fd151a0ba89eb83324d4
title: Dimensions of freedom
uri: Dimensions-of-freedom
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#18_August_2021_%28Dimensions_of_freedom%29
content:
<p>

The UK has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/12/covid-police-powers-policing-bill-uk-government-pandemic">eliminated many dimensions of freedom</a> in recent years.
Rather than aiming to reverse these changes, defenders of liberty
should aim for more.


feed_id: 22d92e62d4594c4a684b7350eba6dd27
title: Urgent: Bullshitter Facebook bought ads
uri: Urgent-Bullshitter-Facebook-bought-ads
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Bullshitter_Facebook_bought_ads%29

content:
<p>

Everyone: call on Facebook to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-facebook-close-the-trump-ad-loophole/">stop permitting the bullshitter to post
by buying ads</a>.


feed_id: 0a3781094cb059e89600a2d9db448f43
title: Sahraa Karimi
uri: Sahraa-Karimi
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Sahraa_Karimi%29
content:
<p>

Sahraa Karimi, Afghan film director, is <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-film-director/afghan-film-director-recounts-escape-from-kabul-idUSKBN2FJ1WO">safe in Ukraine</a>.
<p>
I hope that the Taliban will allow women to study and work,
but I am sure she is right that they will not let women make movies.
They may not let men make movies, either.


feed_id: 9c98212d9c9129e9016edb163162add6
title: Build to last
uri: Build-to-last
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Build_to_last%29
content:
<p>

Building <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/18/the-guardian-view-on-buildings-out-with-the-new-for-the-planets-sake">construction releases lots of CO2</a>.  We need to build to last,
not to replace.


feed_id: d3d8d0e72b48bc7e2aa6f49245cca31f
title: Women's rights under the Taliban
uri: Women-s-rights-under-the-Taliban
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Women%27s_rights_under_the_Taliban%29

content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-afghanistan-conflict-future-women/islamic-scholars-to-decide-role-of-women-in-afghanistan-senior-taliban-member-idUSKBN2FJ1QJ">Women's rights under the Taliban</a> may be decided by a very conservative group,
the council of Islamic scholars.
<p>
It won't be easy to convince them, but at least they are used to
considering ideas.  Convincing old warlords could be harder.
<p>
Taliban patrolling Kabul have told at least one woman, at home, to
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-scene/taliban-go-door-to-door-telling-fearful-afghans-to-work-idUSKBN2FJ1RC">resume going to work</a>.
Another went to the office and was told to go home.


feed_id: bed77b2b6ae3f8a2e1bf580801bbbf41
title: Panjshir province
uri: Panjshir-province
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Panjshir_province%29
content:
<p>

Panjshir province of Afghanistan, inhabited mainly by Tajiks, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-tajikistan-diplo/afghan-envoy-says-hold-out-panjshir-province-can-resist-taliban-rule-idUSKBN2FJ1LW">has not
surrendered to the Taliban</a>.
<p>
The conflict could lead to continued localized fighting, or to some
sort of compromise than might involve a less strict government.


feed_id: c2aa95495acc69a6122dfff8088a8dc8
title: Excessive Chinese incomes
uri: Excessive-Chinese-incomes
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Excessive_Chinese_incomes%29
content:
<p>

Xi said he will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/18/chinese-president-xi-jinping-vows-to-adjust-excessive-incomes-of-super-rich">"adjust excessive incomes"</a> of rich Chinese.
<p>
A good, strong democracy will be able to do this, and respect civil
liberties too.  A plutocracy, by contrast, can't be counted on to do
either one.


feed_id: 1ff43d43664b16ce6d4a1417b5788eee
title: Dress code loophole
uri: Dress-code-loophole
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Dress_code_loophole%29
content:
<p>

*Texas school district requires masks after <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/18/texas-school-district-requires-masks-loophole-greg-abbott-order">finding dress code loophole</a> to
bypass ban.*
<p>
Ordinarily I resent the idea of a dress code; I have resisted them all
my life.  However, on this special occasion it is being used for
something good.


feed_id: d07e85280091b3b29cc36ff4309b0eda
title: Peace and stability
uri: Peace-and-stability
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Peace_and_stability%29
content:
<p>

A proposal for how the UN Security Council might <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/19/un-afghanistan-humanitarian-corridors-human-rights-taliban">lead Afghanistan to
peace and stability</a>.


feed_id: bfd0b650eb83828a84d8365c98d4bc88
title: Targeting Black Lives Matter protesters
uri: Targeting-Black-Lives-Matter-protesters
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Targeting_Black_Lives_Matter_protesters%29

content:
<p>

*   The federal government <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/19/black-lives-matter-policing-prosecutions-race-goverment">deliberately targeted</a> Black Lives Matter
   protesters via heavy-handed criminal prosecutions in an attempt to
   disrupt and discourage [the protests].
The orders came from the highest officials: Attorney General Barr,
and the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#bully">bully</a>.
<p>
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">Thugs</a> bent over backwards to tolerate right-wing anti-mask protests,
and this made a visible contrast with how they treated Black Lives Matter.


feed_id: bcfad79eca8322a16b45e6efff6bbacf
title: Lessons of Afghanistan
uri: Lessons-of-Afghanistan
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Lessons_of_Afghanistan%29
content:
<p>

*What lessons should the West <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/19/what-lessons-should-the-west-learn-from-the-defeat-in-afghanistan">learn from the defeat in Afghanistan</a>?*
<p>
The first article is right about what happened in Vietnam, Laos, Iraq,
Syria, and Afghanistan.  Its overall point is valid.
<p>
However, it is utterly mistaken in one small point: classing the
Korean war with those others.  That was a conventional war, most of
the time with a front; the South Korean army fought hard.  The US
forces arrived barely in time to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Pusan_Perimeter">prevent North Korea's tanks from
completely conquering the south</a>,
and ultimately achieved a partial victory by restoring (more or
less) the pre-war frontier.  The result today is that 51 million
Koreans do not suffer under the repression of the Kim dynasty.
<p>
The US intervention in Libya was much smaller and not comparable
to those wars.
<p>
Shadi Hamid's article makes the mistake of supposing that the Afghan
government forces were fighting for something that they were committed
to.  I don't know what efforts Biden tried to make for the Afghan
government to continue the war, but it is clear now that no such plan
could have made any difference.


feed_id: 0d7c88a98693bb217a0ee9d245e50507
title: Formaldehyde
uri: 2021-08-20-Formaldehyde
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Formaldehyde%29
content:
<p>

*<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/19/formaldehyde-leukemia-epa-trump-suppressed/">Formaldehyde Causes Leukemia</a>,
 According to EPA Assessment Suppressed by [the poisoner].*


feed_id: 93883baf1daaed3cf1c4a796c48355b3
title: Iran's uranium enrichment
uri: Iran-s-uranium-enrichment
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Iran%27s_uranium_enrichment%29
content:
<p>

*France, Germany, UK <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/iran-nuclear-statement-int/france-germany-uk-very-worried-about-irans-uranium-enrichment-idUSKBN2FK1ET">very worried about Iran's uranium enrichment</a>.*


feed_id: b4977836892f9f86a001d7f4b675c0c2
title: Dilation and evacuation abortion
uri: Dilation-and-evacuation-abortion
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Dilation_and_evacuation_abortion%29

content:
<p>

A federal appeals court <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/19/texas-abortion-court-upholds-ban-method-dilation-evacuation">upheld Texas's law banning the dilation and
evacuation method of abortion</a>.
The supposed reason is based on confusion, but this happens to be
the usual method for a second trimester abortion.  Note: in the US,
second trimester abortions are permitted only deal with some medical
problem or danger.


feed_id: 6aabc5b88a8078b736d5b626176f9719
title: Hong Kongers convicted
uri: Hong-Kongers-convicted
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Hong_Kongers_convicted%29
content:
<p>

Two Hong Kongers have been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/19/hong-kong-protest-pair-swept-up-in-national-security-crackdown-plead-guilty">convicted of calling for other countries
to put sanctions on Hong Kong</a>.


feed_id: 5706963ef8acada25a385cebd17391c9
title: Consumerism, Inequality
uri: Consumerism-Inequality
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Consumerism%2C_Inequality%29
content:
<p>

*Consumerism, Inequality, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/12/consumerism-inequality-and-climate-crisis">and the Climate Crisis</a>.*
<p>
"Is it possible to build a society where people have enough to live well
   and also feel that they have enough?"  The article argues yes, in
a society with less inequality.
<p>
(satire) *Desperate California Home buyers <a href="https://www.theonion.com/desperate-california-homebuyers-locked-in-bidding-war-o-1847474122">Locked In Bidding War</a> Over Charred Remains Of
Ranch House.*


feed_id: 94f65814365155356aef28982152d9ba
title: Methane emission ratings
uri: Methane-emission-ratings
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Methane_emission_ratings%29
content:
<p>

Individual big oil companies have now been <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/emissions-methane-idUSMTZSPDEH8EU9J79K">rated for methane
emissions</a>.


feed_id: 3891eb5f0f4f831fd92384d43bf3cdd9
title: Architects of the ruinous war
uri: Architects-of-the-ruinous-war
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Architects_of_the_ruinous_war%29
content:
<p>

*The U.S. architects of the ruinous war [in Afghanistan] are <a href="https://inthesetimes.com/article/afghanistan-war-trump-biden-petraeus-bolton">getting
the last word</a> on its "lessons,"* in the mainstream media.


feed_id: ff29b75554ed1bc69293f89c7fa08128
title: Best of medical care
uri: Best-of-medical-care
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Best_of_medical_care%29
content:
<p>

Governor Abbott is getting the best of medical care for his Covid-19
infection, but he <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/17/after-banning-mask-and-vaccine-mandates-gop-texas-gov-greg-abbott-gets-covid-19">won't let school students be protected</a>.


feed_id: 0677e1b91374ed030130b16be9563f0c
title: Diplomacy with Taliban
uri: Diplomacy-with-Taliban
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#19_August_2021_%28Diplomacy_with_Taliban%29
content:
<p>

*Progressive Caucus <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/18/twenty-years-war-have-failed-progressive-caucus-urges-us-diplomacy-taliban">Urges US Diplomacy With Taliban</a>.*


feed_id: cb4758c3fd5f5281f9ff7f684d70c0e8
title: Winners of Afghan War
uri: Winners-of-Afghan-War
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Winners_of_Afghan_War%29
content:
<p>
*Investors in US Weapon-Makers <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/17/investors-us-weapon-makers-only-clear-winners-afghan-war">Only Clear Winners of Afghan War</a>.*


feed_id: 73bbae9965cb782c62270ee11eb58838
title: Interview with Taliban representative
uri: Interview-with-Taliban-representative
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Interview_with_Taliban_representative%29

content:
<p>
A Taliban representative accepted an interview <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/17/female-presenter-interviews-taliban-spokesman-on-afghanistan-television">with a female journalist
on Afghanistan television</a>.

<p>
This doesn't conclusively demonstrate anything about what they will do
in the future, but it shows an openness.

<p>
Malala Yousafzai <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/17/opinion/malala-afghanistan-taliban-women.html">talks about protecting Afghan women's access to
education</a>.


feed_id: 534a0925fb064df49743ec2c3fca6109
title: Torture and execution of political opponents
uri: Torture-and-execution-of-political-opponents
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Torture_and_execution_of_political_opponents%29

content:
<p>
The government that took power through the coup that ousted President
Morales <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/17/bolivia-government-tortured-executed-opponents-report">is now accused of torturing and executing political opponents</a>.


feed_id: d845e3fcbf630729ec5ac7cb48f321e7
title: Blocking road to copper mine
uri: Blocking-road-to-copper-mine
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Blocking_road_to_copper_mine%29
content:
<p>
*Residents block road near Peru's Las Bambas copper mine <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-peru-mining/residents-block-road-near-perus-las-bambas-copper-mine-after-two-week-truce-idUSKBN2FI248">after two-week truce</a>.*

<p>
They blame the mine's heavy truck traffic for spreading toxic dust.


feed_id: b6810b1ada6ec887e26f8b03814588b0
title: Support group
uri: Support-group
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Support_group%29
content:
<p>
In Kansas City, mothers of men killed by uniformed <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/18/police-killed-their-sons-missouri-mothers">have formed a support group</a>.


feed_id: b85c2161fd06987731f24f2d4f4750e3
title: Dissident charged
uri: Dissident-charged
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Dissident_charged%29
content:
<p>
Cuban dissident Jose Daniel Ferrer <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cuba-unrest/leading-cuban-dissident-ordered-to-serve-four-year-prison-sentence-idUSKBN2FJ03E">has been sentenced to four years in prison 
for implausible charges</a>.

<p>
*New Cuban decree <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cuba-unrest-internet/new-cuban-decree-tightens-controls-on-social-media-sparking-outrage-idUSKBN2FJ244">tightens controls on social media, sparking outrage</a>.*


feed_id: 9e21d23383545ad89616887ff093d86d
title: Plastics plant
uri: Plastics-plant
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Plastics_plant%29
content:
<p>
*Multibillion-dollar Louisiana plastics plant <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/18/louisiana-plastics-plant-toxic-emissions-cancer-alley">put on pause in a win for
activists</a>.*


feed_id: bf1218e1f7b79d5348069739f0c7dfe7
title: Protection and enhanced welfare
uri: Protection-and-enhanced-welfare
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Protection_and_enhanced_welfare%29

content:
<p>
South Korea may legislate that animals are "beings" and therefore
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-southkorea-animal-law/south-korea-to-grant-legal-status-to-animals-to-tackle-abuse-abandonment-idUSKBN2FK02E">deserve "protection and enhanced welfare."</a>

<p>
In the US, I would respond by suggesting that we give human beings a
right to protection and enhanced welfare, first.  But maybe South
Korea has already done that.  If so, that is admirable.
However, this law is problematical.

<p>
The article doesn't say which kinds of "animals" the law covers.
Dogs, apparently, are included.  Does it cover mice?
Cockoaches?  Mosquitoes?  Ticks?

<p>
If you see a cat about to eat a mouse, what protection is the mouse
entitled to?  If you find a mosquito trapped in a spider web, what
protection is the mosquito entitled to?  And how to prevent the spider
from starving?

<p>
Abandonment of pets is a serious problem, not only for the pet,
but often for ecosystems too.  It is not good at all to release pets
into the wild.  However, the enforcement of such a law would be
problematical.


feed_id: 6264a4844143f4469eebff6a8baf7bcc
title: Support for fossil fuels
uri: Support-for-fossil-fuels
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#20_August_2021_%28Support_for_fossil_fuels%29
content:
<p>
*Biden Treasury Guidance <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/16/deeply-concerning-biden-treasury-guidance-fails-end-us-support-fossil-fuels-abroad">Fails to End US Support for
Fossil Fuels Abroad</a>.*


feed_id: adb232c77a046e16915ccde6855be212
title: Urgent: subpoena the wrecker
uri: Urgent-subpoena-the-wrecker
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_subpoena_the_wrecker%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on the Jan 6th Select Committee to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/demand-the-jan-6th-select-committee-subpoena-trump-and-insurrectionist-supporting-republicans-now?nowrapper=true">subpoena the wrecker and insurrection-supporting Republicans</a>.


feed_id: c491d6d8fa1cc4135b209556b8974948
title: Urgent: Stop advertising on Fox
uri: Urgent-Stop-advertising-on-Fox
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Stop_advertising_on_Fox%29

content:
<p>

Everyone: call on T-Mobile and other companies to <a href="https://act.freepress.net/sign/stop_advertising_on_fox/?akid=18507.9489429.36NOnI&rd=1&t=1002">stop advertising on Fox</a>.


feed_id: ba35c8fbbcc23f2de18cac5eef108b01
title: Urgent: End the filibuster
uri: 2021-08-22-Urgent-End-the-filibuster
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_End_the_filibuster%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on the Senate to <a href="https://act.350.org/letter/listr_ms_350_jugg_202106_EA_August-pet/">end the filibuster</a>.


feed_id: 67f3e1fc3f6d1504a3a5927431a8009e
title: Uranium enrichment
uri: Uranium-enrichment
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Uranium_enrichment%29
content:
<p>

*Iran accelerates enrichment of uranium to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/iran-nuclear-iaea-int/iran-accelerates-enrichment-of-uranium-to-near-weapons-grade-iaea-says-idUSKBN2FI1LV">near weapons-grade</a>, IAEA says.*
<p>
It will be a setback for world peace and safety if we cannot resurrect the
non-nuclear deal that the wrecker destroyed.  However, I criticize Biden
for <a href="https://www.stallman.org/archives/2021-jan-apr.html#8_April_2021_(Non-nuclear_deal_with_Iran)">not offering enough concessions</a> to bring it back
when he had a chance. Since breaking the deal was the US's fault, it was proper for the
US to apologize for that and act accordingly.


feed_id: c7bde2101569f39cf87f608ff36cb216
title: Vietnam and Afghanistan wars
uri: Vietnam-and-Afghanistan-wars
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Vietnam_and_Afghanistan_wars%29
content:
<p>

Some similarities between the Vietnam war and the Afghanistan war: US
officers had no idea what winning would mean, or how to achieve that,
and they systematically generated lies to give to their superiors an
impression of constantly making progress.  The book, <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/17/afghanistan-papers-kabul-taliban-craig-whitlock/">The Afghanistan
Papers</a>, presents the details.


feed_id: 36fae8d5775e1264e78d9f03ebfd2224
title: Islamic militant organizations
uri: Islamic-militant-organizations
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Islamic_militant_organizations%29
content:
<p>

* While many [in Pakistan] are celebrating, others fear Taliban
   victory will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/17/pakistan-divided-over-success-of-taliban-in-afghanistan">embolden Islamic militant organizations</a> operating in
   Pakistan.*


feed_id: 5bbcb7e06b1603175ba3501d2681d35c
title: Violent extremism
uri: 2021-08-22-Violent-extremism
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Violent_extremism%29
content:
<p>

Islamists, right-wing trumpets, now incels &hellip; it looks like
society has become <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/17/incel-movement-extremism-internet-community-misogyny">prone to camps of violent extremism</a> of hatred
against whatever target it may be.


feed_id: 0b64612b1542581161f3eefaee6d1ef5
title: Taliban strategy
uri: Taliban-strategy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Taliban_strategy%29
content:
<p>

The Taliban carefully <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-defeat/how-the-taliban-engineered-political-collapse-of-afghanistan-idUSKBN2FI1AK">planned a strategy to win the war</a>.


feed_id: 3b90586f86ef9f087552325d467eaa80
title: American CEOs
uri: American-CEOs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28American_CEOs%29
content:
<p>

*American CEOs make <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/17/american-chief-executive-pay-wages-workers">351 times more than workers</a>. In 1965 it was 15 to one.*
<p>
It is a mistake to use "percentage increase" to describe a large
change.  Instead of saying that average CEO pay increased 1,322
percent since 1978, the clear thing to say is that it has grown by a
factor of 14.  (To say 14.22 is excess, pointless precision.)
<p>
I would guess that this figure does not include everyone that is the
CEO of a company, but only large companies.  It would be interesting
to see what that company was.
<p>
I criticize those details but I don't think they are very important.
The article demonstrates its point.  I support Sanders's economic
program cited at the end of the article.


feed_id: 4925c82322bf1a33350c52867274e66f
title: Garment factories in Los Angeles
uri: Garment-factories-in-Los-Angeles
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Garment_factories_in_Los_Angeles%29

content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/17/la-garment-workers-minimum-wage-factory">Garment factories in Los Angeles</a> make workers work 60 hours a week,
pay them less than the minimum wage, and often steal their wages.
<p>
Naturally they exploit unauthorized immigrants, who don't dare report
the employer's crimes since they are not allowed to work.  But these
abusive practices harm all workers.
<p>
No surprise that many businesses lobby to keep them going.


feed_id: 42f0100174fc664825fca2b626c3dc8d
title: Transfer of power
uri: 2021-08-22-Transfer-of-power
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Transfer_of_power%29
content:
<p>

To avoid a disorderly (sometimes chaotic) transfer of power
to the Taliban would have required <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/17/afghanistan-taliban-surrender-withdrawal-biden/">negotiating an orderly one</a>.
But that would have entailed admitting defeat.  For the US, that
was unthinkable.


feed_id: 7c99ee0194a419fee4c8332886b62d86
title: Assaults on voting rights
uri: Assaults-on-voting-rights
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Assaults_on_voting_rights%29
content:
<p>

*Rightwing lobbies and dark money funders <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/18/rightwing-lobbies-dark-money-assaults-voting-rights">backing assaults on voting rights</a>.*


feed_id: e8ba8886c8a8a7edf7d0a970f913091e
title: Senator Paul
uri: Senator-Paul
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Senator_Paul%29
content:
<p>

Senator Paul <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/12/rand-paul-must-resign-republicans-wife-bought-stock-company-behind-covid-drug-feb">encourages people to spread and catch Covid-19</a>.  His wife owns stock in a company which makes a treatment that helps with severe cases.
Is that a conflict of interest?
<p>
I don't claim that he has encouraged the spread of Covid-19 <em>in order
to</em> profit from that stock.  I expect that he is motivated mainly by a
callous political strategy.  But this does show he knows that the
disease is dangerous and likely to spread.
<p>
His wife bought the stock in February 2020, showing attentiveness to
investment opportunities.  It also means that they concealed the
purchase for about 18 months.  If he reported it now for an "annual
disclosure", wasn't there a similar annual disclosure in 2020?


feed_id: 7af4ed118085907a7358be674e03b494
title: ConocoPhillips plan
uri: ConocoPhillips-plan
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28ConocoPhillips_plan%29
content:
<p>

A judge <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/18/alaska-trump-oil-project-federal-judge-review">invalidated a ConocoPhillips plan</a> for extracting oil from
Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve.
<p>
The company claimed that the extraction would not endanger the
survival of polar bears.  That was false: <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> and the
consequent melting of Arctic ice endangers their survival, and any
project to extract additional fossil fuel will exacerbate that.
<p>
Dunleavy's statement is based on an implicit defeatist premise: that
we will fail to cut down the use of fossil fuels and suffer catastrophe,
so why not compete to sell more oil now?
<p>
Alaska's coasts are being eroded rapidly by the loss of ice, and
residents are losing their homes, but I guess he does not care.


feed_id: eb8f4adc4f17ed3f6539dffb8ce2d5b5
title: Polish appeals court
uri: Polish-appeals-court
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Polish_appeals_court%29
content:
<p>

*Polish appeals court <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/16/polish-appeals-court-overturns-ruling-against-holocaust-historians">overturns ruling</a> against [Polish] Holocaust historians.*
<p>
The judged said that the "courtroom was not the right place for a
historical debate."  Bravo!
<p>
I know almost nothing about my ancestors, before my grandparents; but
I expect that if you could identify them and their families, and watch
them in a time machine, you'd see someone commit a grave wrong.  I
expect that is true of everyone, and it is not something to get worked
up over.  I wonder why Ms Leszczyńska is so concerned about it.


feed_id: 16b240a8377b1667078b886081cb4bca
title: Nord Stream 2 pipeline
uri: Nord-Stream-2-pipeline
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28Nord_Stream_2_pipeline%29
content:
<p>

The US is trying to block the Russia-Germany Nord Stream 2 pipeline,
but <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-nordstream-gas-usa-sanctions/u-s-issues-nord-stream-2-related-sanctions-on-russians-blinken-idUSKBN2FL1UI">not for the obvious reason</a>: that it will encourage global heating.
Rather, the motive is to make that gas travel through Ukraine and thus
provide income to Ukraine.
<p>
I wouldn't say that goal is <em>bad</em>, but it misses the point.  No matter
how that gas gets to Europe, it will be burnt there and contribute to
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.  And some of it will leak, and since it is mainly
methane, that leak will contribute even more to short-term global
heating.
<p>
In addition, it will give Putin income.  Putin is not as dangerous
as <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>, but he is dangerous nonetheless.


feed_id: fd9390d94ac9b7fe91139b8f2e913cc4
title: PISSI response to Taliban's victory
uri: PISSI-response-to-Taliban-s-victory
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#21_August_2021_%28PISSI_response_to_Taliban%27s_victory%29

content:
<p>

Al Qa'ida is jubilant about the Taliban's victory, but <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#pissi">PISSI</a> and its
offshoots <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/20/why-not-all-islamist-extremists-buoyed-by-taliban-victory-afghanistan">condemn and hate the Taliban</a>.


feed_id: 779e87108f374681e66b65ef2d3eab8b
title: Urgent: Tax billionaires to fund Green New Deal
uri: Urgent-Tax-billionaires-to-fund-Green-New-Deal
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Tax_billionaires_to_fund_Green_New_Deal%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.rootsaction.org/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=14312">Tax billionaires to fund the
 Green New Deal</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: ac18918e190a4987dde0e992cfb053fc
title: Urgent: John Lewis voting rights act
uri: Urgent-John-Lewis-voting-rights-act
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_John_Lewis_voting_rights_act%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.pfaw.org/sign/urge-congress-to-pass-john-lewis-voting-rights-act/">Pass the John Lewis Voting Rights
 Act</a>.

This is a companion to the <a href="https://www.stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#6_June_2021_(Urgent:_End_filibuster_and_pass_For_the_People_Act)">For the People Act</a>; we want both.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: ab4df1a7ee13eeca425e849c53253492
title: Urgent: Own and preserve books
uri: Urgent-Own-and-preserve-books
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Own_and_preserve_books%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on legislators to protect the freedom to <a href="https://www.whocangetyourbook.com/">own and
preserve books</a>, whatever format they are released in.
<p>
This addresses part of the <a href="media/d62a2831.ebooks.pdf" data-original-source="https://stallman.org/archives/ebooks.pdf">injustice</a> of typical commercial e-books.
I won't accept an ebook if it has any of those injustices.


feed_id: 8febf1f3ae721815328a05f1b7a55c19
title: Urgent: Child Tax Credit
uri: Urgent-Child-Tax-Credit
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Child_Tax_Credit%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-congress-make-the-child-tax-credit-permanent-now?nowrapper=true">make the child tax credit permanent</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: fa70227eb3bbf6f4ac856a1d4db53c0e
title: Urgent: Congress members trading stocks
uri: Urgent-Congress-members-trading-stocks
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Congress_members_trading_stocks%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.democracyforamerica.com/sign/Ban_Conflicted_Trading_Act/?refcode=g-Reich0819.d-20210820.m-27139.s-218999&akid=27139%2E1906019%2EQLf4d5">ban members of Congress from trading
stocks</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>
  


feed_id: 5742ad77456f582c29a91554da4d8c9c
title: Wait in Mexico
uri: Wait-in-Mexico
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Wait_in_Mexico%29
content:
<p>

A US appeals court has ordered the border thugs to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-immigration-court-border/u-s-faces-deadline-to-reinstate-remain-in-mexico-border-program-idUSKBN2FL1I3">return to the "wait
in Mexico" system</a> that the bully set up.
Biden tried to end it, but the court decided that ending it requires
an official procedure that takes time.
<p>
Is Biden working on that procedure?


feed_id: 20a3b79b06caf3c64301813a3b64dbb6
title: Afghanistan war profiteer
uri: Afghanistan-war-profiteer
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Afghanistan_war_profiteer%29
content:
<p>

An former Afghanistan war profiteer is now in Congress and <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/20/mike-waltz-afghanistan/">pushing for
the US to invade again</a>.  He does not mention, in his publicity, that he
profited from the war.


feed_id: 9a85978ec13210cbf2afe5cd9ec01909
title: Crushing Extinction Rebellion protests
uri: Crushing-Extinction-Rebellion-protests
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Crushing_Extinction_Rebellion_protests%29

content:
<p>

UK thugs plan to go all-out to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/20/police-unswayed-by-road-block-ruling-ahead-of-london-climate-protests">crush coming Extinction Rebellion protests</a>.
<p>
They warn that <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> may be so busy protecting plans to commit ecocide
that they <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-britain-police/london-police-warn-of-two-weeks-of-disruption-from-climate-protests-idUSKBN2FL18U">won't have time to deal with lesser crimes</a>.


feed_id: 6b9967ab39fba023f8cdd720f68d7729
title: Rain on Greenland ice cap
uri: Rain-on-Greenland-ice-cap
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Rain_on_Greenland_ice_cap%29
content:
<p>

Rain fell on the summit of the Greenland ice cap for the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/20/rain-falls-peak-greenland-ice-cap-first-time-on-record-climate-crisis">first time
ever recorded</a>.


feed_id: b775e5593940b7af3453379b68de543d
title: Immigrants dropped in Guatemala
uri: Immigrants-dropped-in-Guatemala
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Immigrants_dropped_in_Guatemala%29

content:
<p>

Mexico drops unauthorized Salvadoran, Honduran and Nicaraguan
immigrants penniless just across the border <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-immigration-deportations/migrants-left-high-and-dry-at-guatemala-border-after-deportations-from-mexico-u-s-idUSKBN2FL15P">in Guatemala</a>.  They can't
cross Guatemala to their home countries, so all they can do is try
again to enter the US.


feed_id: 8f4610c239410fe76bad4b9e665f85a0
title: Texas mask mandates
uri: Texas-mask-mandates
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Texas_mask_mandates%29
content:
<p>

The Texas supreme court <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-texas-education/texas-supreme-court-rejects-governor-abbotts-ban-on-school-mask-mandates-cnn-idUSKBN2FL0GQ">authorized local school mask mandates</a>.


feed_id: 710ed00c9199530d5a0fc32cf86c894c
title: Subcontracted Afghans
uri: Subcontracted-Afghans
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Subcontracted_Afghans%29
content:
<p>

Many Afghans who worked for foreign governments or armies were
subcontracted, so the governments <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/20/please-help-get-us-out-plight-of-afghan-chef-who-worked-at-british-embassy">don't know about them and don't try
to save them</a>.
<p>
Subcontracting workers commonly facilitates abusing them, and the practice
should be eliminated, but this case is especially bad.


feed_id: ca35e2d3c6c0637cc56b7c8bd1dd4a9d
title: Blue hydrogen
uri: Blue-hydrogen
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Blue_hydrogen%29
content:
<p>

Chris Jackson was head of the UK Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association.
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/20/oil-firms-made-false-claims-on-blue-hydrogen-costs-says-ex-lobby-boss">He has resigned</a>, saying that he *believes [oil] companies promoted
"unsustainable" [blue hydrogen] projects to access billions in
taxpayer subsidies.*
<p>
The article supports my impression that the Tories' hydrogen project
is basically a plan to help fossil fuel companies greenwash.  It
presents hydrogen as a way of reducing greenhouse emissions, focusing
on the "green" hydrogen made from renewable energy, then invests in
"blue" hydrogen made by burning fossil fuels.


feed_id: 3de45376dd8dadabb3a2025e9043d42c
title: Robot nursing aide
uri: Robot-nursing-aide
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Robot_nursing_aide%29
content:
<p>

A <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/19/asia/grace-hanson-robotics-android-nurse-hnk-spc-intl/index.html">robot nursing aide and companion</a> might be very useful, if only it weren't reporting on you for some company &mdash; and, in China,
certainly for the state as well.


feed_id: 99d87dc0d713dacb8f3e63997cecc0e9
title: Deadly DeSantis
uri: Deadly-DeSantis
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Deadly_DeSantis%29
content:
<p>

While Deadly DeSantis discourages masks and vaccination, he <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/18/health/covid-19-antibody-treatments-wellness/index.html">promotes
an antibody treatment</a> that does reduce the chance of catching Covid-19
for a few days.
<p>
The big drawback of that approach is that you'd need to know when
you've been exposed to Covid-19, and ask for the treatment.  In
Florida, you will have lots of opportunities to get exposed, so you'd
need to request it often.  More likely, you would ask for it only
occasionally, leaving yourself unprotected most of the time.
<p>
The antibody treatment is currently gratis, but I'm sure the company
will start charging some day.
<p>
I wonder if DeSantis makes money somehow from that treatment.


feed_id: 2a2794b5e6e4846b0ee26e8d62114c45
title: "Free" market wages
uri: Free-market-wages
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Free_market_wages%29
content:
<p>

Laissez-faire laissez-mourir economists claim that wages in a "free"
market are controlled by productivity, and that they will naturally
rise when workers' productivity rises.  But it does not happen.
<p>
This article <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/19/hourly-minimum-wage-should-be-26">explains some of the changes</a> which have pushed the income of most workers down over recent decades.


feed_id: f493fb5c3fcc10b8d3c84ef2d5e76748
title: Facebook's censorship
uri: Facebook-s-censorship
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Facebook%27s_censorship%29
content:
<p>

On the <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/19/opinions/facebook-taliban-ban-afghanistan-as-equals-intl-cmd/index.html">danger of Facebook's censorship</a>.


feed_id: e188fff89ff215d6896aedfebf5995b5
title: (satire) Haitian Doctor
uri: (satire)-Haitian-Doctor
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Haitian_Doctor%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *Biden Responds To [Haiti's] Aid Request By <a href="https://www.theonion.com/biden-responds-to-aid-request-by-deporting-haitian-doct-1847512051">Deporting Haitian
Doctor [to Haiti]</a>.*


feed_id: 2d7ede0763f029aed3e5eaa94552c2cb
title: Carbon capture
uri: 2021-08-23-Carbon-capture
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Carbon_capture%29
content:
<p>

Proposed carbon capture systems have <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/18/dangerous-thinking-carbon-capture-technology-wont-solve-our-emissions-problems">fundamental flaws</a> &mdash; even if they
work, in a narrow sense, they can't enable us to curb <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>
very much.


feed_id: 5489e34fe975c2b1e12046b3d3fd35d0
title: Redefine teacher education
uri: Redefine-teacher-education
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#22_August_2021_%28Redefine_teacher_education%29
content:
<p>

The Tories want to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/aug/18/cambridge-to-cease-teacher-training-if-government-continues-with-damaging-reforms">redefine teacher education</a> so as to train trainers.
Cambridge University says it would sooner cease involvement than go
along with that.


feed_id: 0741dfae93e45cc4dc5ac254c07df46e
title: Degrees pyramid scheme
uri: Degrees-pyramid-scheme
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Degrees_pyramid_scheme%29
content:
<p>
Higher degrees of education &mdash; outside the fields important for
technology &mdash; are like a pyramid scheme.  You pay a lot and get in
debt, then probably don't get a job in the field except as a low-paid
"adjunct professor."  But degree inflation <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/17/higher-education-pyramid-scheme">pushes more and more people
into doing this</a>.


feed_id: fcba69a29eb20a51bb659e533967a72e
title: Food stamp benefits
uri: Food-stamp-benefits
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Food_stamp_benefits%29
content:
<p>
Biden has greatly increased the level <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/16/bidens-permanent-snap-boost-will-transform-lives-say-anti-poverty-advocates">of food stamp benefits ("SNAP")
for poor families</a>.


feed_id: fa99916f3ae62d00a160cd3e425e9a8c
title: Earlier than expected
uri: Earlier-than-expected
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Earlier_than_expected%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/afghanistan-falls-to-taliban-couple-hours-earlier-than-1847494345">satire</a>) *Afghanistan Falls To Taliban Couple Hours Earlier Than Expected.*


feed_id: 70934c23d5c093bbe61c677304e53e88
title: Bakery workers on strike
uri: Bakery-workers-on-strike
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Bakery_workers_on_strike%29
content:
<p>
Nabisco/Mondelez bakery workers are on strike.  *Workers have been
   forced to work 12 to 16 hour shifts, six to seven days a week,
   during the pandemic, while the company seeks to eliminate overtime
   pay by altering employee schedules <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/20/no-contracts-no-snacks-nabisco-workers-strike-across-us">so that weekend shifts become
   part of the 40-hour work week</a>.*

<p>
The strike <a href="https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2021/08/17/nabi-a17.html">is spreading to other plants</a>.


feed_id: 598c02fd7550322a2c669dae3d14e9ad
title: Ignored
uri: Ignored
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Ignored%29
content:
<p>
Medea Benjamin: *Will Americans Who Were Right on Afghanistan <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/20/will-americans-who-were-right-afghanistan-still-be-ignored">Still Be
Ignored</a>?*


feed_id: 3ccf459c903a424d3991646dd55c7c2d
title: Living with less
uri: Living-with-less
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Living_with_less%29
content:
<p>
*A Viable Human Future <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/20/viable-human-future-depends-living-less">Depends on Living With Less</a>.*

<p>
Humanity in total needs to live with less.  But if the decrease falls mainly
on the rich, that may be acceptable.  If nobody eats a lot of meat, we may all
have fine and enjoyable diets.


feed_id: a8234e4ed8d1b5cb97feb82f2a04d5a6
title: Global meat and dairy companies
uri: Global-meat-and-dairy-companies
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Global_meat_and_dairy_companies%29

content:
<p>
*We Need to Urgently Regulate Global Meat and Dairy Companies <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/20/we-need-urgently-regulate-global-meat-and-dairy-companies-cut-methane-and-avoid">to Cut Methane
and Avoid Climate Breakdown</a>.*

<p>
Cows generate a lot of the world's methane emissions.


feed_id: 3c3f831f0fecf667aaff65d738f68d3d
title: Progressives and trumpets
uri: Progressives-and-trumpets
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Progressives_and_trumpets%29
content:
<p>
The mainstream media's false equivalence between the progressives in
Congress and the trumpets has the effect <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/20/false-equivalence-medias-dangerous-bias">of legitimizing right-wing
efforts to overthrow democracy in the US</a>.

<p>
Even with the older Republicans, who did not aim to overthrow
democracy, this false equivalence was misleading.  Because the second
fallacious step was to find the place midway between the two views,
and call that the "center" &mdash; even though the overwhelming majority of
Americans rejected that as too right-wing.


feed_id: 08dab256cb0ccc8303a8cd77b1be83be
title: Family as hostage
uri: Family-as-hostage
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Family_as_hostage%29
content:
<p>
A report says that the Taliban want to arrest the high officials of
the previous government, and <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-blacklist/taliban-are-rounding-up-afghans-on-blacklist-private-intel-report-idUSKBN2FK23J">will threaten to use their families as
hostages</a>.

<p>
The US has also been accused <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2005-nov-feb.html#30%20January%202006%20%28More%20hostages%29">of using people's family members as
hostages</a>.
  It is a vile practice.


feed_id: 7383c31cbe2b461700abeba613adb8ec
title: Defense Industry Dole
uri: Defense-Industry-Dole
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Defense_Industry_Dole%29
content:
<p>
*Cable News Military Experts <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/19/afghanistan-taliban-defense-industry-media/">Are on the Defense Industry Dole</a>.*

<p>
This includes <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#faux">Faux News</a> and CNN.


feed_id: a76cb9dc9fbba1d830228c710e3d4f75
title: Voter suppression law passed
uri: Voter-suppression-law-passed
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Voter_suppression_law_passed%29
content:
<p>
Enough Texas Democratic legislators returned to the session <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/19/texas-democrats-return-voting-bill">that the
Republicans were able to pass their voter suppression law</a>.

<p>
I am very disappointed with the Democrats who wouldn't continue the
resistance.


feed_id: fc502fe8207d3999624d53b60e08d36a
title: Pipeline
uri: 2021-08-23-Pipeline
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Pipeline%29
content:
<p>
Bolsonaro wants to build a pipeline <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-brazil-argentina-gas/brazil-in-talks-with-argentina-for-gas-pipeline-from-vaca-muerta-bolsonaro-idUSKBN2FL067">to buy natural gas from Argentina</a>.
  I presume some of the methane would leak, and the rest would be burnt.

<p>
This would accelerate the loss to the ocean of the historic Brazilian
cities on the coast.  The name of that fossil fuel deposit is "vaca
muerta", but "civilización muerta" would be more accurate.


feed_id: a8f4110046dafa227fa6298ab3ab6342
title: Chlorpyrifos
uri: 2021-08-23-Chlorpyrifos
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Chlorpyrifos%29
content:
<p>
*EPA Bans All Food Uses <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/18/long-overdue-epa-bans-all-food-uses-neurotoxic-pesticide-chlorpyrifos">of Neurotoxic Pesticide Chlorpyrifos</a>.*

<p>
It sounds like farm workers tending crops that are not meant for
eating, including cotton, hemp, and most tobacco, may still be
exposed to chlorpyrifos.


feed_id: d6d4deee3476ee3e9cfd83674e44340b
title: Running it
uri: Running-it
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Running_it%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/disappointed-taliban-realizes-taking-over-afghanistan-m-1847510259">satire</a>) *Disappointed Taliban Realizes Taking Over Afghanistan More
Fun Than Running It.*


feed_id: 5d3a4997da5c0c65f19c938e428679c5
title: Unconditional surrender
uri: Unconditional-surrender
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Unconditional_surrender%29
content:
<p>
There are reports that the Taliban <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/18/taliban-surrendered-2001">offered unconditional surrender
in December 2001</a>.

<p>
This is so shocking that I can't accept it as unquestioned truth
without further substantiation.  Anand Gopal heard the story in
Afghanistan some time after 2008.  That was plenty of time for
distortion to set in.  I took a quick look at his book, but that part
doesn't say where he got the information; can anyone tell me whether
that is stated elsewhere in the book?

<p>
I won't accept it as unquestioned truth, but I won't say it must be
false, either.

<p>
Dubya had previously rejected <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/17/when-will-we-stop-letting-our-presidents-lie-america-wars">an offer by the Taliban to surrender
Osama bin Laden and break off with al-Qa'ida</a>.
  Accepting that offer would have satisfied the supposed purpose for
the invasion of Afghanistan.


feed_id: 8c115eb4eaa618e67ce35fb1c2106b8d
title: Urgent: Fix SSI in Reconciliation Bill
uri: Urgent-Fix-SSI-in-Reconciliation-Bill
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Fix_SSI_in_Reconciliation_Bill%29

content:
<p>

  US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-congress-fix-ssi-in-the-reconciliation-bill">fix SSI in the Reconciliation Bill</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: d0839ec2fea287017916b2da53308f36
title: Thoughtful response
uri: Thoughtful-response
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Thoughtful_response%29
content:
<p>

How to find *A <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/17/thoughtful-response-tragedy-afghanistan">Thoughtful Response</a> to the Tragedy in Afghanistan.*


feed_id: 88e1da30e88d8f80cd0f62800060c0e5
title: (satire) Film reboot
uri: (satire)-Film-reboot
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Film_reboot%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *Production Delays Cause Film Reboot To <a href="https://www.theonion.com/production-delays-cause-film-reboot-to-reach-theaters-b-1847500816">Reach Theaters Before
Original</a>.*


feed_id: 0f764f6f27ec2329fb305f212ea0f7a7
title: Phil Valentine
uri: Phil-Valentine
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Phil_Valentine%29
content:
<p>

Radio host Phil Valentine, who ridiculed Covid-19 vaccination,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/21/tennessee-radio-host-phil-valentine-vaccine-vaccination-dies-covid-19">changed his mind to advocate vaccination</a> after he caught the disease.
<p>
If he had lived, and returned to his show, he could have done a lot of
good.


feed_id: 3e500bec5f9630db8df62a7560d49569
title: Nurse shortage in Philippines
uri: Nurse-shortage-in-Philippines
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Nurse_shortage_in_Philippines%29
content:
<p>

Between Covid-19 and low wages for nurses, the Philippines have a
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/21/raging-delta-variant-takes-its-toll-as-philippines-runs-out-of-nurses">shortage of nurses</a>.


feed_id: c4fd9ab75a893ffaabf6215cb8b6da58
title: Unspoken fear
uri: Unspoken-fear
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Unspoken_fear%29
content:
<p>

*When power thrives on unspoken fear, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/21/when-power-thrives-on-unspoken-fear-bravery-saying-i-am-afraid">bravery is in saying "I am afraid."</a>*


feed_id: 31fe7f53aae16c3812669de2ac106387
title: Nonrepressive order
uri: Nonrepressive-order
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Nonrepressive_order%29
content:
<p>

The Taliban is finding it difficult to establish in Kabul the
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-taliban-communic/as-kabul-turmoil-mounts-talibans-pr-offensive-falters-idUSKBN2FM097">nonrepressive order</a> that it says it stands for.
<p>
We Americans are aware that right-wing enemies of our government are
often responsible for provoking violence to blame on the government
and/or the left.  Nonetheless, the state has the responsibility to
maintain order while respecting freedom, even if that is difficult.
It is the same for the Taliban.
<p>
The Taliban have <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict/taliban-vow-to-be-accountable-probe-reports-of-reprisals-in-afghanistan-idUSKBN2FM02V">said they will do so</a>.
<p>
Since they took power in Kabul only one week ago, we need to give
them time.  If they reject fanatic violence, they need to make this
rejection effective and visible.
<p>
This includes the responsibility to demonstrate that the people
searching for journalists to kill are lawbreakers, and to protect the
journalists from them.
<p>
Perhaps the US should give the Taliban lots of police uniforms and
badges, so that people can distinguish between them and unaffiliated
terrorists.


feed_id: bc4d038c19380e7e2c87d298730e7431
title: Governments can change
uri: Governments-can-change
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Governments_can_change%29
content:
<p>

*<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/21/beware-state-surveillance-of-your-lives-governments-can-change-afghanistan">Beware state surveillance of your lives</a> &mdash; governments can change for
the worse.*


feed_id: 2bfaad57bc77fd3791e7cbbc476c4369
title: Alabama thug sentenced
uri: Alabama-thug-sentenced
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Alabama_thug_sentenced%29
content:
<p>

An Alabama <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> who needlessly killed a man who was threatening suicide
has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/21/alabama-former-police-officer-ben-darby-sentenced-25-years-shooting-suicidal-man">sentenced to 25 years in prison</a>.
The man was threatening suicide, but a <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#police">police officer</a> was talking him down,
and believed things were on the mend.
<p>
What is the urgency of shooting a person who holds a gun to per own
head?


feed_id: 1d11bdfb3f7c01ec8127184778256d96
title: California's Democratic party leader
uri: California-s-Democratic-party-leader
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28California%27s_Democratic_party_leader%29

content:
<p>

The hypocrisy of California's Democratic Party leader makes it likely
that he will be <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/19/how-californias-top-democrats-paved-way-republican-governor-fall">replaced by next month's recall election</a> with someone
much worse.
<p>
The most likely winner is a Republican death cultist.
<p>
I urge people to vote in part 1 to keep Governor Newsom.


feed_id: 13b9048cc9292cf99ced816491152dcd
title: A cut to pay for vaccinating poor countries
uri: A-cut-to-pay-for-vaccinating-poor-countries
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28A_cut_to_pay_for_vaccinating_poor_countries%29

content:
<p>

A bill proposes to cut US military spending to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/20/new-bill-proposes-cutting-pentagon-spending-fund-vaccines-poor-nations">pay for vaccinating poor countries</a>.
<p>
That would be money well spent, not only in terms of the general good
of humanity, but also specifically in terms of US security against
threats to Americans.  It would reduce the chance of the evolution of
more deadly variants of Covid-19.
<p>
The US could use more deficit spending, so it doesn't actually need to cut
some other spending to fund this.


feed_id: 3e503b11b237d79f7ff37c2d4ac18d42
title: Prevention of Taliban's quick victory
uri: Prevention-of-Taliban-s-quick-victory
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Prevention_of_Taliban%27s_quick_victory%29

content:
<p>

A US intelligence official says that the US could have prevented the Taliban's
quick victory by <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/20/opinions/afghanistan-failure-intelligence-policy-qa-douglas-london-bergen/index.html">keeping certain intelligence teams going</a>.
However, Biden could not do this while keeping the agreement (made
by the wrecker) to withdraw all the US troops.
<p>
If Biden had kept those teams going, would that have prolonged the
war?  I don't know, but I have a feeling that that could only have
occurred if the US had continued pouring in money.  There would still
have been no chance to defeat the Taliban.


feed_id: de8e4c2a7fb8812fe6b239cd19dc9c41
title: Talk of "war on terror"
uri: Talk-of-war-on-terror
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Talk_of_war_on_terror%29
content:
<p>

The US will probably not talk about a "war on terror", but many of the
operations against terrorist organizations <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/22/endless-shadow-war-terror">will continue</a>.  So will the ominous Department of Homeland Security, with its massive surveillance
capabilities that could be turned against anyone.
<p>
The most dangerous source of terrorism in the US in the near future
will be the millions of right-wing fanatics, detached from reality.
They are killing thousands of Americans now, by crusading against
masks, vaccination, and anything that would retard the spread of
Covid-19.
<p>
Will the DHS be of any use against that?


feed_id: 381d224c4145316a6ad604787c368511
title: Extinction Rebellion London protest
uri: Extinction-Rebellion-London-protest
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Extinction_Rebellion_London_protest%29

content:
<p>

Extinction Rebellion <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-climate-change-britain-guildhall/climate-change-activists-target-city-of-londons-guildhall-idUSKBN2FN0E2">aimed protests against the City of London</a>, the small
district that protects banks from many laws, and lobbied against laws that
would limit their ability to promote <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#climate">climate mayhem</a>.
<p>
The City of London has the form of a representative, democratic body.
Except that few people actually live in its territory, and they 
are <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2011-nov-feb.html#5_November_2011_(London_Banksters)">almost all banksters</a>.


feed_id: 29afb4cd93ef8680a20966de487b3292
title: Rally in Alabama
uri: Rally-in-Alabama
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28Rally_in_Alabama%29
content:
<p>

Republican anti-vaxxers at the wrecker's rally in Alabama <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/22/donald-trump-rally-alabama-covid-vaccine">bood him when he advocated vaccination</a>.
<p>
It seems that the monster he started has become too powerful and crazy
for him to restrain.
<p>
One MD in Alabama <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/19/unvaccinated-covid-19-patients-strain-alabama-hospitals-amid-warning-potentially">refuses to treat unvaccinated patients</a> with Covid-19.
He says it is because he can't bear watching them die.
<p>
I don't think that is a valid reason.  Medical doctors should try to
treat all sick people, even if the chance of saving them is small,
because the chance is more than zero.  In this case, the chance is not
really so small.  Treatment for severe Covid-19 does save many of the
patients.
<p>
However, a doctor can only do so much, and a hospital can only handle
so many patients in its ICU.
<p>
When there are more sick people than the doctors and the hospitals can
handle, so that they simply cannot treat everyone, it makes sense for
them to publish a policy of giving first priority to the patients who
took proper precautions to reduce the chance of getting sick &mdash;
meaning, those who got sick despite vaccination.  After those, they
would treat as many of the unvaccinated patients as they can fit,
to the extent they can.


feed_id: f1ffe90be0f16cb4bddd9985da1c05c4
title: nimbyism
uri: nimbyism
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#23_August_2021_%28nimbyism%29
content:
<p>

*Denser cities could be a climate boon &mdash; but <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/22/cities-climate-change-dense-sprawl-yimby-nimby">nimbyism stands in the way</a>.*


feed_id: a3fbccfc4baa1d5a0b6ab0223c255c68
title: Food aid needed
uri: Food-aid-needed
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Food_aid_needed%29
content:
<p>
Afghanistan <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/23/afghanistan-could-start-to-run-out-of-food-by-september-un-warns">will need food aid soon</a>.


feed_id: ec7526fd69fb0e5083f5ec3652acb197
title: Ending lockdowns
uri: Ending-lockdowns
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Ending_lockdowns%29
content:
<p>
Modelling suggests that ending Australian lockdowns when 80% of
adult Australians are vaccinated <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/24/ending-lockdowns-with-80-vaccinated-could-cause-25000-australian-deaths-new-modelling-suggests">could cause 25,000 deaths, over time,
plus 270,000 cases of long Covid</a>.

<p>
That is one death per thousand people, and one long Covid case per
hundred.

<p>
Waiting till 90% of adults vaccinated, and all children vaccinated,
the number of deaths would go down to 10,000.  The article does not
say how many long Covid cases would accompany them.

<p>
I wish I could ask for more information about this model.


feed_id: 1e8c1f5fb678761c1943604e4d9dee4c
title: Bizarre games with medical prices
uri: Bizarre-games-with-medical-prices
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Bizarre_games_with_medical_prices%29

content:
<p>
US hospitals and medical insurance companies play bizarre games with
prices.  Neither the insured nor the employers that usually pay their
bills <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/08/22/upshot/hospital-prices.html">can find out in advance what a procedure will cost at this or
that hospital</a>.

<p>
A law now requires hospitals to post this information, but most hospitals
ignore it with impunity.  Furthermore, a hospital can send one price,
then charge a higher price, and say "We sent you a wrong estimate."

<p>
We need a law that makes it impossible for a hospital to get away with
not posting prices or not sending estimates.  In addition, we need a law
by which every hospital is bound by whatever advance prices it states.
Also, that the hospital is forbidden to charge for anything
that didn't have an easily found published price.

<p>
Noncompliance should get the hospital cut off from business until it
sells to new owners with new management.

<p>
However, even that may not be enough.  So what we really need <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-sep-dec.html#19_November_2020_(National_medical_system_by_executive_order)">is a
national medical system</a> &mdash; what most advanced countries have.


feed_id: a998d522f0bb700c29331e286a5913f2
title: Dividing people based on languages
uri: Dividing-people-based-on-languages
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Dividing_people_based_on_languages%29

content:
<p>
Ukraine is dividing its population by turning the use of two similar
languages <a href="https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Europe/2021/0817/Language-in-Ukraine-Why-Russian-vs.-Ukrainian-divides-so-deeply">into a point of political dispute</a>.


feed_id: 1598b7c5ac5d7d588caec769020810f5
title: Genuine Progress Indicator Act
uri: Genuine-Progress-Indicator-Act
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Genuine_Progress_Indicator_Act%29
content:
<p>
*Ilhan Omar's Genuine Progress Indicator Act: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/22/ilhan-omars-genuine-progress-indicator-act-important-step-sustainability">An Important Step for
Sustainability</a>.*
  It will also encourage planning to making life better, rather than to
increase the churn and production.


feed_id: aea02eb6ff47125367f5e9f021e744cb
title: Support for withdrawal
uri: Support-for-withdrawal
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Support_for_withdrawal%29
content:
<p>
Americans support by a landslide <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/22/us-public-clear-war-afghanistan-wasnt-worth-it">the withdrawal of US troops from
Afghanistan</a>.

<p>
The military-industrial complex is pushing hard to convince us that
the fall of the US-established government was a disaster.  I don't
think it will be worse than unending war; but I also think I won't be
as bad as the Taliban's rule was before.

<p>
The new Afghan government, which will include other power groups, will
have many reasons to want peace and cooperation with the US.  Many
reasons, that is, to keep the pledge not to allow Afghanistan to be a
base for terrorism.  The Taliban may even appreciate US intelligence
help for fighting <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#pissi">PISSI</a>.

<p>
They will also have very strong interests in allowing women to do the
many kinds of skilled work that Afghan women have trained to do.  I
think they will end up adopyin a policy resembling Iran's.

<p>
Compared with a western country, that is horribly sexist.  But it
would be a big step forward compared with the way most of Afghanistan
has been in recent years (outside of a few cities).


feed_id: 36d072df710a4bb43476aaae5497055b
title: Global heating on the long term
uri: Global-heating-on-the-long-term
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Global_heating_on_the_long_term%29

content:
<p>
Global heating is drying Iran, and much of the Middle East, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/22/middleeast/middle-east-climate-water-shortage-iran-urmia-intl/index.html">for the
long term</a>.


feed_id: e4c7eb0aecc3382d3fa1932957c6b836
title: Environmental treaties
uri: Environmental-treaties
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Environmental_treaties%29
content:
<p>
*4 Major Environmental Treaties the U.S. Never Ratified &mdash; <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/21/4-major-environmental-treaties-us-never-ratified-should">But Should</a>.*


feed_id: 3555303c7e89914582736a4c0ac7620a
title: Reducing the income of the rich
uri: Reducing-the-income-of-the-rich
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Reducing_the_income_of_the_rich%29

content:
<p>
China will reduce the income of the rich, in order to make the rest
wealthier, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/aug/21/the-partys-over-china-clamps-down-on-its-tech-billionaires">and to eliminate the political power of the rich</a>.

<p>
How paradoxical that the state that crushes freedom of thought for everyone
will eliminate this other menace to freedom.  But is there a path from there
back to freedom?


feed_id: 3e4c51a9f507732987e59990c7dcc72b
title: Spreader ceremonies
uri: Spreader-ceremonies
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Spreader_ceremonies%29
content:
<p>
Australia shows no mercy for churches <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/aug/23/extraordinary-police-fine-dozens-of-churchgoers-after-service-in-western-sydney-covid-hotspot">that hold spreader ceremonies</a>.


feed_id: c6a718e59accc259f7baf455a54c5a37
title: College loan debt
uri: College-loan-debt
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28College_loan_debt%29
content:
<p>
Biden just demonstrated that he can order the cancellation of college loan
debt, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/19/progressives-say-do-everyone-biden-erases-student-debt-people-severe-disabilities">by cancelling the debts of permanently disabled students</a>.
  Now he should cancel the rest of college loan debt.


feed_id: 5aa0e38eb51dc8616f5836cc7e3bbc88
title: Driving sex underground
uri: Driving-sex-underground
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Driving_sex_underground%29
content:
<p>
The campaign to drive sex underground on the internet
just conquered a site that became successful <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/20/tech/onlyfans-explicit-content-ban-payment/index.html">for being a place
you could publish images of sex</a>.

<p>
This campaign for "women's rights" is backed mainly <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/21/onlyfans-sexually-explicit-content-gilead">by right-wing
Christians that advocate general repression of sex</a>.

<p>
I consider the site OnlyFans unacceptable because it requires visitors
to run nonfree software, and makes them identify themselves (through
the payment system).  (Of course, they are not planning to fix
<em>that</em>.)  But that is a side issue.  What's dangerous is not specifically
the change in that one site's policies, it is the overall campaign of
sexual repression.

<p>
The first article contains the phrase "share adult content", which is
a triple series of debasements of language.

<p>
We should not weaken the word "sharing" by using it for commercial
distribution of works.  Not that I'm against commercial distribution,
but we should not discard the distinction between cooperation in
society and commercial activity.

<p>
We should not refer to works <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/words-to-avoid.html#Content">as "content"</a>, either,
  because that disparages all works.

<p>
As for "adult", that's a euphemism.  As a founding member-at-heart of
the Anti-Euphemism League, I object to it.


feed_id: ab6c295254a265b8f07896c53188bb4a
title: Queues to the airport
uri: Queues-to-the-airport
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Queues_to_the_airport%29
content:
<p>
The Taliban <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict/taliban-impose-some-order-around-kabul-airport-witnesses-idUSKBN2FN02D">are maintaining safe and orderly queues outside Kabul airport</a>.
  I gather that they are not trying to stop would-be evacuees from
entering.


feed_id: cbb0250a22d4316fb6102f61c54f3da8
title: Next governor
uri: Next-governor
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Next_governor%29
content:
<p>
Right-wing extremist radio personality Larry Elder could become
governor of California with around 10% of the overall votes cast
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/22/larry-elder-california-governor-recall-election">unless &gt; 50% vote to keep Governor Newsom in office</a>.


feed_id: 6d78793e08a8c93df300bb36945daf93
title: Urgent: Rally for Julian Assange
uri: 2021-08-24-Urgent-Rally-for-Julian-Assange
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Rally_for_Julian_Assange%29

content:
<p>
Boston area: come to the rally for Julian Assange
August 30 from 4:30pm to 6pm in Boston Common, next to the entrance
o


feed_id: b12aa15c61fbe8046b5109ed1265f1e6
title: Urgent: Line 3 pipeline
uri: 2021-08-25-Urgent-Line-3-pipeline
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Line_3_pipeline%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on the Army Corps of Engineers to <a href="https://act.350.org/letter/tell-jaime-pinkham-stop-line-3/?akid=166113.1151744.pce6R6&rd=1&source=em20210819-1-us-pt&t=1002">cancel the Line 3
pipeline</a>.


feed_id: 6f8275fe4c2574c766c6e377f32e2c41
title: Urgent: Child Tax Credit
uri: 2021-08-25-Urgent-Child-Tax-Credit
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Child_Tax_Credit%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/tell-congress-make-the-child-tax-credit-permanent-now">make the Child Tax Credit permanent now</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: b44d483dbb11d08ed3cf33e2c47bd7b5
title: Masks in Florida schools
uri: 2021-08-25-Masks-in-Florida-schools
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Masks_in_Florida_schools%29
content:
<p>

Florida school districts are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/23/florida-school-districts-require-masks-battle-against-governor-desantis-order">defying Deadly DeSantis and requiring masks</a>,
after seeing many Covid cases among the students in just the first week.


feed_id: 1db25b5842a66d40c5edf03d620a5afe
title: Pfizer vaccine approval
uri: Pfizer-vaccine-approval
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Pfizer_vaccine_approval%29
content:
<p>

The Pfizer vaccine now has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/aug/23/fda-full-approval-pfizer-vaccine-covid-19">full approval</a> (not experimental approval),
so it is easier to require vaccination.


feed_id: e186e3addf8cb8cf04fa8af7078de401
title: Tennessee rain
uri: Tennessee-rain
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Tennessee_rain%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/23/tennessee-floods-flash-flooding-death-toll-damage">Record-breaking rain</a> in Tennessee has killed people and destroyed
houses.
I hope this makes some Republicans aware of the urgency of curbing the
global heating, which has already progressed so far as to cause
disasters like this around the world.


feed_id: eb936d6cc9968da5f80637d52a945fea
title: Poland wall
uri: Poland-wall
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Poland_wall%29
content:
<p>

Poland plans to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-europe-migrants-belarus-poland/poland-to-build-fence-on-belarus-border-to-halt-migrants-idUSKBN2FO15R">build a wall</a> on the border with Belarus to block
unauthorized immigrants, some of whom would ask for asylum.
<p>
Aside from the treaties about asylum, and the moral duty to offer
asylum, I am not sure an 8-foot wall would actually stop able-bodied
migrants.  Belarus would surely equip them with ladders.


feed_id: 32f39676f4f6c7178c911f334a9319aa
title: 10-day protest
uri: 10-day-protest
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%2810-day_protest%29
content:
<p>

*Extinction Rebellion <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-norway-protests/extinction-rebellion-occupy-norways-oil-ministry-as-part-of-10-day-protest-idUSKBN2FO16M">occupy Norway's oil ministry</a> as part of 10-day protest.*
<p>
In London they only <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/23/extinction-rebellion-blocks-busy-junction-in-london">occupied a busy junction</a>.
<p>
The UK's Minister of Love wants to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/21/wrong-to-label-extinction-rebellion-as-extremists-says-home-office-adviser">label Extinction Rebellion
as "extremist"</a>.
This would open the door to extreme repression of Britons who are not
content to wait quietly while global heating destroys their country.
<p>
The same government is meanwhile dreaming up excuses for greenwashing
the expansion of fossil fuel use.


feed_id: a7cb6262d8e97778401aeeeaa5c00065
title: Disinformation about "Antifa"
uri: Disinformation-about-Antifa
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Disinformation_about_Antifa%29
content:
<p>

California thugs picked up disinformation talking about "Antifa" and
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/23/revealed-california-police-antifa-misinformation">ran with it</a>.
<p>
We cannot afford to have people with a right-wing bias in positions
where they can bias the administration of justice.


feed_id: 333c04c3aacbad0e1f858fb1a51597d1
title: Carbon footprint
uri: Carbon-footprint
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Carbon_footprint%29
content:
<p>

The concept of an individual's "carbon footprint" was invented by
Billionaire Polluters' PR company, to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/23/big-oil-coined-carbon-footprints-to-blame-us-for-their-greed-keep-them-on-the-hook">distract people from demanding the big changes</a> that can only be made with the help of governments.
<p>
I wish the Guardian would stop publishing articles that focus people's
attention on reducing their individual contributions to greenhouse emissions.
Especially since they almost always omit the most important thing an individual
can do is to have <a href="articles/children.html">fewer children</a>.


feed_id: 2396030c4dc95821ab8c9e451a47690b
title: Enemies of the state
uri: Enemies-of-the-state
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Enemies_of_the_state%29
content:
<p>

When Lukashenko considers people "enemies of the state" and places criminal
charges against them, lawyers are <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-belarus-politics-lawyers-insight/belarus-tightens-grip-on-lawyers-idUSKBN2FO0RZ">not supposed to defend them</a> against the
charges.  The "trials" are for show only.


feed_id: 6268b4a2a3e47783883a6498be3f645a
title: Unvaccinated candidates
uri: Unvaccinated-candidates
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Unvaccinated_candidates%29
content:
<p>

The Canadian Conservative Party is driving away voters by <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-canada-election/in-canadas-pandemic-election-unvaccinated-candidates-are-knocking-on-doors-idUSKBN2FO0TN">sending unvaccinated candidates</a> to knock on voters' doors.
<p>
Sad to say, Trudeau's Liberal Party is rather conservative too.


feed_id: f23b6c263f1e96a38bf34c2883bf0a14
title: Sea snakes
uri: Sea-snakes
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Sea_snakes%29
content:
<p>

Sexually aroused sea snakes seem to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/23/sea-snakes-venomous-may-attack-divers-mating-season-study">mistake divers for sea snakes</a>.
<p>
Male dolphins do try to have sex with humans, but that doesn't imply they
are mistaken about anything.


feed_id: 70c462c8872b136e05695efd4ef55b92
title: Failure from day one
uri: Failure-from-day-one
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Failure_from_day_one%29
content:
<p>

*In Latest Yes Men Prank, 'Paul Wolfowitz' Says Afghanistan War <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/22/latest-yes-men-prank-paul-wolfowitz-says-afghanistan-war-failure-day-one">'Failure From Day One'</a>.*
But it was worth all the cost and suffering, according to the
imitation Wolfowitz, because Americans can always be proud of fighting
a war.
<p>
Here is a <a href="https://theyesmen.org/project/warisallyouneed/broadcast">transcript</a>.
<p>
Bravo for the Yes Men!


feed_id: a5bca113813455281a1b43f811de29bc
title: Rally in Portland
uri: Rally-in-Portland
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Rally_in_Portland%29
content:
<p>

200 of right-wing extremists, presenting themselves as "Proud Boys",
held a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/23/portland-oregon-clashes-protests-proud-boys-antifascist">rally in Portland</a>, Oregon, many carrying weapons.  Some 30
antifascist protesters came by to object.  The fascists attacked them
(and other people) physically, and appear to have hurt some people
badly.
<p>
The city thug chief had <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/23/portland-police-proud-boys-protest/">announced in advance</a> that the thugs would not
try to prevent the violent intimidation that right-wing extremists
crowds go in for.
So it went on one fascist started shooting at the antifascists.  One
antifascist was also armed, and shot back.
<p>
The fascists took advantage of the impunity they had been awarded
to form gangs that attacked vehicles and their drivers.
<p>
Last year, thugs at similar rallies showed their <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jul-oct.html#24_September_2020_(Plotting_violence_ahead_of_rallies)">support for
right-wing violence</a>.
Portland's officials had better take action to prevent that from
happening again.
<p>
The leader of the Proud Boys has been sentenced to 5 months in prison
for bringing high-capacity magazines to Washington, DC, plus
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/23/proud-boys-leader-enrique-tarrio-sentenced-black-lives-matter">vandalizing a Black Lives Matter banner at a church</a>.
The magazines were preparation for possible violence on Jan 6,
though he didn't actually carry it out.
The vandalism demonstrates that white supremacy is the base of the group's ideology.


feed_id: 1187ad966915645b9057b3fc1bbc5aca
title: Recrimination
uri: Recrimination
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Recrimination%29
content:
<p>

Interventionists in the US are pushing for bitter recrimination about
Kabul's surrender, as <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/23/west-fall-of-kabul-sudan-iraq-afghanistan-us-uk-policies">distraction from the needful recrimination</a> about
the US conduct of the war.


feed_id: 0132519a5d9932c04c9595ddcd0ba1c2
title: Extended suspension of parliament
uri: Extended-suspension-of-parliament
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Extended_suspension_of_parliament%29

content:
<p>

Tunisia's president <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tunisia-politics/tunisias-president-extends-suspension-of-parliament-idUSKBN2FP00B">extended his suspension of parliament</a>.
The longer this goes on, the more we must worry that he intends
to become a dictator.


feed_id: 75123d9c52da280bcd342ff534ffce5b
title: War on pain sufferers
uri: War-on-pain-sufferers
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28War_on_pain_sufferers%29
content:
<p>

The US War on Pain Sufferers has launched a new method of choosing its
targets.  It has put all prescriptions into a nationwide database
which uses a simplistic algorithm to classify each patient as "real
patient" or "drug addict."  If you get a negative judgment, you can
be <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/opioid-drug-addiction-algorithm-chronic-pain/">cut off instantly from your painkillers</a>.
I can imagine that as driving people to suicide, or rendering them
unable to confront the needs of staying alive.
<p>
Officially, the algorithm never makes an actual decision.  Rather, it
reports a score, which could be called the "patient social credit
score".  That determines doctors' decisions; they don't dare disregard
it.
<p>
More casualties of the War on Drugs: the US government continues
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/08/17/the-dea-seized-an-innocent-mans-life-savings-without-charging-him-with-a-crime.html">seizing people's money based on vague suspicion</a>, without charging
them with any crime.


feed_id: d42ebec4ea3bc10bb673f024f4ac19fe
title: Pulled out of the War on Drugs
uri: Pulled-out-of-the-War-on-Drugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Pulled_out_of_the_War_on_Drugs%29
content:
<p>
Thailand has pulled out of the War on Drugs.  Drug users <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-drugs/thai-parliament-passes-new-narcotics-bill-that-could-ease-overcrowded-prisons-idUSKBN2FP11X">will be given
treatment rather than punishment</a>.


feed_id: e1013e1c2b3964a10facf4ca74471230
title: Sending troops back
uri: Sending-troops-back
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Sending_troops_back%29
content:
<p>
Eritrea is sending troops back to Tigray, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ethiopia-conflict/u-s-eu-warn-of-influx-of-eritrean-troops-in-ethiopias-tigray-idUSKBN2FP1AC">in alliance with Ethiopia</a>.
  Perhaps they never entirely left.


feed_id: 3fc7517ddeaef019590a9746b6d432ca
title: Prime Directive
uri: Prime-Directive
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Prime_Directive%29
content:
<p>
Yanis Varoufakis <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/23/star-trek-anti-imperialist-doctrine">praises Star Trek's Prime Directive</a>.


feed_id: e9778b99844c8a38de03db293ec75d34
title: Avoiding overprotecting
uri: Avoiding-overprotecting
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Avoiding_overprotecting%29
content:
<p>
How to avoid overprotecting your child: make a list of the horrible things
you're afraid will happen, and you'll see <a href="https://issuu.com/tampabayparentingmagazine/docs/september_2021_web/s/13150187">they are too unlikely to deserve
so much concern</a>.


feed_id: 1c7c5b0f12a982ced44494a32a27d947
title: Bad science
uri: Bad-science
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Bad_science%29
content:
<p>
Scientific papers that present astounding results attract more
attention.  They are also more likely to prove to be unreproducible and
probably wrong.  Moreover, <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-bad-science-is-sometimes-more-appealing-than-good-science/">they continue to be cited despite evidence that
they are wrong</a>.

<p>
Perhaps we could set up a system that enables journalists and
commentators to more easily find out that the result proved
unreproducible.  Then maybe it could become standard practice
in reputable publications to check this.

<p>
I hope it functions without nonfree JavaScript so that I could use it
myself.


feed_id: 2f217dd4108190cf6c1c26b4f875cfce
title: Returning with accent
uri: Returning-with-accent
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Returning_with_accent%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/jane-goodall-returns-from-latest-expedition-with-annoyi-1847527983">satire</a>) *Jane Goodall Returns From Latest Expedition With Annoying
Chimp Accent.*


feed_id: 85ea0a8f9dfd10757e304a5cdf8cf3c2
title: Extreme weather ads
uri: Extreme-weather-ads
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Extreme_weather_ads%29
content:
<p>
* More than two dozen advocacy groups launched "extreme weather
   ads" &hellip; to pressure right-wing Senate Democrats <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/23/extreme-weather-ads-target-democrats-defending-fossil-fuel-subsidies">to stop giving
   taxpayer money to the oil, gas, and coal companies most responsible
   for the climate emergency</a>.*


feed_id: a6b4ff0626529f67a4f9c952c25e62d9
title: Pushing unsafe drug
uri: Pushing-unsafe-drug
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Pushing_unsafe_drug%29
content:
<p>
*Right-wing media pushed a deworming drug to treat Covid-19 <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/media/right-wing-media-ivermectin/index.html">that the FDA says
is unsafe for humans</a>.*


feed_id: d18e05c57e97d7036d954163b4af3c2f
title: Vaccination requirement
uri: Vaccination-requirement
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Vaccination_requirement%29
content:
<p>
New York City will require <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/us/nyc-vaccine-mandate-teachers/index.html">all public school employees to be
vaccinated</a>.
  The teacher's union pointed out the need for medical exceptions.
However, there are no grounds to allow a personal preference exception.


feed_id: 04010c4f5d1344cfc497d01535c5bfd3
title: Overcome with Covid-19
uri: Overcome-with-Covid-19
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Overcome_with_Covid-19%29
content:
<p>
A small town in Texas has been overcome with Covid-19.  <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/us/texas-town-covid-outbreak/index.html">Its schools
and most activity are shut down</a>.


feed_id: e4588f4322eb8a137bdba5fd0b34c42f
title: Treatment in school
uri: Treatment-in-school
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Treatment_in_school%29
content:
<p>
Many teenagers in the US are overcome with anxiety or depression due to
the treatment they have experienced in school, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/health/school-refusal-psychology-wellness/index.html">and refuse to go there</a>.


feed_id: 7d141283ea611e1bfd47aa4c58a82dd2
title: Death sentence
uri: 2021-08-25-Death-sentence
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#25_August_2021_%28Death_sentence%29
content:
<p>
*Taliban issue death sentence for brother of Afghan translator who helped US
troops, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/politics/taliban-death-threat-afghan-translator-letters/index.html">according to letters obtained by CNN</a>.*


feed_id: ae8a33c93172001cb08101794ed80908
title: Tennessee rain
uri: 2021-08-25-Tennessee-rain
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Tennessee_rain%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/23/tennessee-floods-flash-flooding-death-toll-damage">Record-breaking rain</a> in Tennessee has killed people and destroyed
houses.
I hope this makes some Republicans aware of the urgency of curbing the
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>, which has already progressed so far as to cause
disasters like this around the world.


feed_id: 7ff0ec35d991d576ef010ca357a867f9
title: 10-day protest
uri: 2021-08-25-10-day-protest
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%2810-day_protest%29
content:
<p>

*Extinction Rebellion <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-norway-protests/extinction-rebellion-occupy-norways-oil-ministry-as-part-of-10-day-protest-idUSKBN2FO16M">occupy Norway's oil ministry</a> as part of 10-day protest.*
<p>
In London they only <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/23/extinction-rebellion-blocks-busy-junction-in-london">occupied a busy junction</a>.
<p>
The UK's Minister of Love wants to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/21/wrong-to-label-extinction-rebellion-as-extremists-says-home-office-adviser">label Extinction Rebellion
as "extremist"</a>.
This would open the door to extreme repression of Britons who are not
content to wait quietly while <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> destroys their country.
<p>
The same government is meanwhile dreaming up excuses for greenwashing
the expansion of fossil fuel use.


feed_id: c384c0a556e24876e06488f8f7fdacb9
title: Disinformation about "Antifa"
uri: 2021-08-25-Disinformation-about-Antifa
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#24_August_2021_%28Disinformation_about_Antifa%29
content:
<p>

California <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> picked up disinformation talking about "Antifa" and
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/23/revealed-california-police-antifa-misinformation">ran with it</a>.
<p>
We cannot afford to have people with a right-wing bias in positions
where they can bias the administration of justice.


feed_id: 6c166a131b443fc426535cc9bedee896
title: Toxic wildfire smoke
uri: Toxic-wildfire-smoke
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Toxic_wildfire_smoke%29
content:
<p>
*Breathing toxic wildfire smoke during pregnancy <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/24/california-wildfire-smoke-pregnancy-premature-birth">increases risk of premature
birth, study finds</a>.*

<p>
If we can only lead people to follow the steps from "This smoke is
horrible" to "Down with the oil companies!"


feed_id: 5f237dba10b1f378bd9065da573b3dbf
title: John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act
uri: John-Lewis-Voting-Rights-Advancement-Act
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28John_Lewis_Voting_Rights_Advancement_Act%29

content:
<p>
The House of Representatives passed the John Lewis Voting Rights
Advancement Act, which updates the existing Voting Rights Act <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/24/us-house-passes-voting-rights-bill-preclearance">to restore
the pre-clearance requirement for voter suppression laws</a>.

<p>
This would be an important advance, but it does not go as far
as the For the People Act.

<p>
To pass either of them would require the Senate Democrats to eliminate
the filibuster.


feed_id: 057233096a083262a82794b43c78f466
title: Threatened by global heating disaster
uri: Threatened-by-global-heating-disaster
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Threatened_by_global_heating_disaster%29

content:
<p>
China is gravely threatened by <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> disaster.  By 2050,
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/24/cold-war-china-still-possible-overheating-world">it may be too disaster-wracked to continue building up its military</a>.

<p>
Perhaps by that time, the idea of conquering and enslaving Taiwan will
have become a pipedream for China instead of a real possibility.  But
we can't count on that now.

<p>
It is vitally important for China to cut its greenhouse emissions, and
fast.  If the Zhengzhou flood, and the newly discovered likelihood of
fatal weather in the North China Plain, convince Xi to push China into
rapid efforts for climate defense, that will be good for the whole
world.  It may help us convince other countries do likewise.

<p>
Maybe the US and China could negotiate limits on some sorts of arms,
in particular nuclear arms.

<p>
However, the need to strengthen Taiwan's conventional defense so that
China doesn't starts a war there will remain.


feed_id: b9a47a5d77c3ed77010ccbd1b0df98da
title: Still investing in fossil fuels
uri: Still-investing-in-fossil-fuels
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Still_investing_in_fossil_fuels%29

content:
<p>
The main national central banks are still investing in fossil fuels,
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/24/central-banks-accused-dawdling-climate-world-burns">doing nothing to slow global heating</a>.


feed_id: 70581da1ce48871ad0ac236aec9103be
title: Support for removing troops
uri: Support-for-removing-troops
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Support_for_removing_troops%29
content:
<p>
US military veterans <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/24/63-us-veterans-support-afghanistan-withdrawal-poll">support removing troops from Afghanistan by 63%
to 24%</a>.


feed_id: b70be89ad96923bc1048b17e6b6e2dd3
title: Eliminating the mayor
uri: Eliminating-the-mayor
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Eliminating_the_mayor%29
content:
<p>
Plutocratist Democrats on Buffalo's city council propose to eliminate
the office of mayor, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/23/buffalos-democratic-establishment-still-trying-defeat-socialist-india-walton">if democratic socialist India Walton wins the
election for mayor (as is likely)</a>.


feed_id: 53ac6f91e46b64fb1f1d75e1777e272c
title: Remain in Mexico policy
uri: Remain-in-Mexico-policy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Remain_in_Mexico_policy%29
content:
<p>
*Supreme court orders Biden <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/24/supreme-court-biden-trump-remain-in-mexico-migrant-policy">to revive Trump’s ‘remain in Mexico’ policy</a>.*

<p>
The ruling is not about the substance of the policy.  It is about
following the procedures for government agencies to make a change in
policy.  What I do not understand is why the wrecker didn't have to
follow those same procedures when he introduced this policy.  That
seems fishy.


feed_id: fa4953a646a6a05fbad56ea8477911c9
title: Going unvaccinated
uri: Going-unvaccinated
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Going_unvaccinated%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/cdc-warns-going-unvaccinated-not-worth-risk-of-losing-a-1847541271">satire</a>) *CDC Warns Going Unvaccinated Not Worth Risk Of Losing
Ability To Taste Wings.*

<p>
For me, this is HHOS.  I live to eat, and while I have no special love
for chicken wings, to lose the joy of delicious food would be crushing
for me.


feed_id: aac8dcde554e55fae41f5f5001d168e9
title: Double speak
uri: Double-speak
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Double_speak%29
content:
<p>
The New York Post requires its staff to wear a mask in the office.
Nonetheless, it publicly derides use of masks to prevent Covid-19.
The publisher knows what is right, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/23/media/new-york-post-mask-mandate/index.html">but doesn't want you to know</a>.


feed_id: 8ec65f8e51913d3de06338fb2ad036e6
title: Afghanistan experts
uri: Afghanistan-experts
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Afghanistan_experts%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/let-s-take-it-to-our-afghanistan-experts-says-anchor-1847539653">satire</a>) *‘Let’s Take It To Our Afghanistan Experts,’ Says Anchor
Throwing To Panel Of Dick Cheneys.*

<p>
(serious) For the US to overcome its addiction to violence in Afghanistan
was an act of strength.


feed_id: 727e4a671a88593a53bc1902ffd5478f
title: Defeating Delta variant
uri: Defeating-Delta-variant
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Defeating_Delta_variant%29
content:
<p>
A third dose of vaccine <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-israel-boosters/israels-covid-19-vaccine-boosters-show-signs-of-taming-delta-idUSKBN2FP096">is defeating the Delta variant in Israel</a>.


feed_id: 205bd2a0f2e66726c7b516be6853c6cb
title: Prediction of deaths
uri: Prediction-of-deaths
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Prediction_of_deaths%29
content:
<p>
Australia said that the prediction of 25,000 deaths from Covid-19 is
an overestimate, because Australia <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/aug/24/scott-morrison-rejects-warning-of-25000-deaths-if-covid-restrictions-end-with-80-vaccinated">would continue some anti-Covid
measures even if it ends lockdowns</a>.

<p>
In any case, it will be a significant number.  However, around 300,000
people die per year in that country.  On the other hand, tens of thousands
of people (including young people) disabled by long Covid may be even worse.


feed_id: 0efed4171f3e00e048650ee6cd7594f9
title: Nuclear power plant shutting down
uri: Nuclear-power-plant-shutting-down
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Nuclear_power_plant_shutting_down%29

content:
<p>
The San Onofre nuclear power plants have been shut down, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/24/san-onofre-nuclear-power-plant-radioactive-waste-unsafe">but the
nuclear waste is buried nearby</a>.

<p>
The article provides some examples of a general problem with nuclear
power plants: the tendency to do a bad job of maintenance, ignoring
their problems.

<p>
To find a place for nuclear waste that will be safe for tens of
thousands of years is a real engineering challenge, but finding a
place that is safe for 25 years from well-known threats is surely much
easier.  I think that the people who selected a place near a beach on
the Pacific ocean, an earthquake fault, an important transport artery
and a major metropolitan area were not being careful.


feed_id: 3c8db21d5bd9fbcf6a5515a25a2a21d6
title: Anti-mask fanatics at school
uri: Anti-mask-fanatics-at-school
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Anti-mask_fanatics_at_school%29
content:
<p>
Anti-mask fanatics are besieging US school boards demanding that they
not require people in schools to wear masks.  When a board does so,
some of them call the board members "Nazis", <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/24/mask-mandates-covid-school-boards">while others threaten
like Nazis</a>.


feed_id: 726c158618213f10c6f82926b91c5fe4
title: Use of spyware against activists
uri: Use-of-spyware-against-activists
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#26_August_2021_%28Use_of_spyware_against_activists%29

content:
<p>
Bahrain used the Pegasus spyware <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/24/phones-of-nine-bahraini-activists-found-to-have-been-hacked-with-nso-spyware">to crack the phones of Bahraini activists</a>.


feed_id: c181e94cab57f074c37d39ae4c0e52fc
title: Women's rights in Afghanistan
uri: 2021-08-27-Women-s-rights-in-Afghanistan
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Women%27s_rights_in_Afghanistan%29

content:
<p>
The major US media ignore the issue of women's rights in Afghanistan
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/24/media-suddenly-cares-about-afghan-women-again-after-us-departure">except when they can use it to argue for war</a>.


feed_id: 14aaa4fd45f539d1c9402f85d3788962
title: Urgent: Work and Family Mobility Act
uri: 2021-08-27-Urgent-Work-and-Family-Mobility-Act
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Work_and_Family_Mobility_Act%29

content:
<p>
Massachusetts residents: <a href="https://action.aclu.org/send-message/ma-family-mobility-act">call on the state legislature</a> to pass the Work and Family Mobility Act.

<p>
This would allow anyone living in the state to apply for a driver's license
without proving permission to be in the US.


feed_id: 5f4ebacbd6bfd1350fcab12c5092423a
title: Immigrants bail
uri: Immigrants-bail
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Immigrants_bail%29
content:
<p>
Immigrants in jail in the US <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/25/immigrants-pay-high-bonds-released-detention-us">are charged much higher bail than citizens</a>.


feed_id: bdfa44cb74943d39ccf9198b19db206c
title: Education for girls
uri: 2021-08-27-Education-for-girls
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Education_for_girls%29
content:
<p>
Afghans advocating education for girls made great progress in
providing primary education for girls, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/25/afghanistan-teachers-defend-girls-education-taliban-international-aid">even including getting the
Taliban to compromise and tolerate it</a>.

<p>
The outside world can help support this, if it is not ham-handed about it.


feed_id: 9d0caf365a71d1fb7a3c0b26e78c7af5
title: Eradicating Covid-19 outbreak
uri: Eradicating-Covid-19-outbreak
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Eradicating_Covid-19_outbreak%29
content:
<p>
Taiwan is coming close <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/25/taiwan-zero-covid-cases-outbreak-vaccine-test-trace">to eradicating its latest Covid-19 outbreak</a>.
  It made the initial mistake of trying steps that were insufficiently
airtight.


feed_id: 4f0154f3454661f22f0cb53ba4e5349e
title: Breaking up big meatpacking companies
uri: Breaking-up-big-meatpacking-companies
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Breaking_up_big_meatpacking_companies%29

content:
<p>
Biden is looking at trying to break up <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/25/meat-wars-why-biden-wants-to-break-up-the-powerful-us-beef-industry">the four big meatpacking companies
that control 80% of US meat production</a>.
  How about also breaking up the big grocery store chains?

<p>
After Reagan handed over control of the US government to big business,
subsequent presidents, including the "moderate" plutocratist Democrats
Clinton and Obama, continued to encourage concentration that increased
business power.  We see this in a wide range of industries, and it's
generally harmful wherever it is found.

<p>
If the only way to undo the concentration is with a lawsuit or specific
policy change for one industry, progress in undoing the concentration
will be slow and limited.  <a href="https://stallman.org/articles/progressive-tax-on-business-gross-income.html">My tax scheme</a> 
                                         could pressure all these businesses
to break themselves up.


feed_id: 49f4317403e3faaf9cf9aa5c93f20651
title: Bird feeders
uri: Bird-feeders
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Bird_feeders%29
content:
<p>
A bird feeder doesn't help all species of birds equally.  Sometimes <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/25/feeding-birds-garden-boost-dominant-species">it can
give one species an advantage over another, and wipe the latter out</a>.


feed_id: 36a28a39a8c5f15731f48df6ca7d4fad
title: More likely to be tasered
uri: More-likely-to-be-tasered
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28More_likely_to_be_tasered%29
content:
<p>
*Black people [in the UK] <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/aug/25/black-people-more-likely-to-be-tasered-for-longer-police-watchdog-finds">more likely to be Tasered for longer</a>, police
 watchdog finds.*


feed_id: 71eeafdcfcc8456ae0626deccf82d577
title: OnlyFans
uri: OnlyFans
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28OnlyFans%29
content:
<p>
OnlyFans has found way to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/aug/25/onlyfans-scraps-plans-to-ban-sexually-explicit-material">continue hosting material that treats sex
and still get paid</a>.


feed_id: 4419643b80cba936ee8d63ff6d0624ae
title: Casualties in the past 20 years
uri: Casualties-in-the-past-20-years
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Casualties_in_the_past_20_years%29

content:
<p>
*Why has so little been said about <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/25/afghan-casualties-war-human-cost">the Afghan casualties of the past 20 years</a>?*


feed_id: 8ae4937618a812b4f116197f59b8cba9
title: Attacking extinction rebellion protesters
uri: Attacking-extinction-rebellion-protesters
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Attacking_extinction_rebellion_protesters%29

content:
<p>
London thugs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/25/extinction-rebellion-protesters-block-oxford-circus-in-london">rushed to attack Extinction Rebellion protesters</a>.
  Since protesters often bring a band of musicians, the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> arrest
the musicians too.


feed_id: 42257677d74cc61b448e4f9d876d712d
title: Immigrants stuck without food
uri: Immigrants-stuck-without-food
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Immigrants_stuck_without_food%29
content:
<p>
25 would-be immigrants sent by Belarus, and stuck at the border
with Poland (which won't admit them), are getting hungry and sick;
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-europe-migrants-belarus-poland/charity-say-migrants-on-polish-belarus-border-seriously-ill-idUSKBN2FQ1C1">one needs treatment urgently</a>.

<p>
It appears that each country refuses to allow the responsibility for
feeding and treating them to fall on it, and each refuses to allow
food or medicine to come from its side.

<p>
Perhaps Poland could allow a helicopter from another country to travel
along the border to that point, and land to provide food and medical
care.  That way, the aid would not come from Poland.

<p>
The helicopter could also, conceivably, evacuate them to a ship which
could take them to countries willing to accept them.


feed_id: 2ec03058903f3c7703a00b67d3b374f0
title: Revocation of citizenship
uri: Revocation-of-citizenship
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Revocation_of_citizenship%29
content:
<p>
*Little-Known Federal Software <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/25/atlas-citizenship-denaturalization-homeland-security/">Can Trigger Revocation of [US] Citizenship</a>.*


feed_id: 2934e35ed7cceab63a1d35b7f40b5e63
title: LED streetlights
uri: LED-streetlights
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28LED_streetlights%29
content:
<p>
LED streetlights <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/25/led-streetlights-moth-england-eco-friendly-sodium-insect-decline">are more harmful to insects</a>.

<p>
Human activities are harming insects so much that their populations
have crashed in the past few decades.  This is called the <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2019-sep-dec.html#14_November_2019_(Insect_Apocalypse)">"insect
apocalypse."</a>
  Since many animals eat mainly insects, we are putting entire
ecosystems in danger.


feed_id: 8490e218497dfcf2a84fa0aba3076d11
title: Trained to misuse force
uri: Trained-to-misuse-force
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#27_August_2021_%28Trained_to_misuse_force%29
content:
<p>
California's Orange County sheriff's department <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/25/california-orange-county-sheriff-department-abuse-review">explicitly trains
deputies to misuse force</a>, according to an official investigation.

<p>
For instance, trainers told deputies to memorize the locations of the
jail's security cameras so as to cover up quick but painful violence.


feed_id: d5c7738ec53ac6ebde4f89aaba17d06b
title: Urgent: Artificial obstacles for Covid-19 vaccines
uri: Urgent-Artificial-obstacles-for-Covid-19-vaccines
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Artificial_obstacles_for_Covid-19_vaccines%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on the White House to push harder to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/tell-the-biden-administration-trips-waiver-now">sweep away the
artificial obstacles</a> for producing Covid-19 vaccines.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: 1f6808571b199ac318b63a8fbe0b072f
title: AI-controlled autonomous ship
uri: AI-controlled-autonomous-ship
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28AI-controlled_autonomous_ship%29
content:
<p>

An <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/25/world/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl/index.html">AI-controlled autonomous ship</a> is being tested.
<p>
I wonder what systems they will use to notice people signaling for
help using low-tech methods &mdash; or to rescue them.  It would be
unacceptable to design ships to motor on by and not stop to save
people in distress.


feed_id: d4f243cdc2cfa74fe65c7b2813c88013
title: Border wall ruled illegal
uri: Border-wall-ruled-illegal
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Border_wall_ruled_illegal%29
content:
<p>

A court ruled that the bully's <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/24/court-ruling-us-border-militarization-called-win-wildlife">construction of the beginning of a
border wall was illegal</a> because it did not take account of
environmental harm.
<p>
The question is, will this make it possible to stop such a president
in the future?


feed_id: 382e138d28998123f91ba73773dfacfa
title: Lithuania recognized Taiwan
uri: Lithuania-recognized-Taiwan
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Lithuania_recognized_Taiwan%29
content:
<p>

Lithuania recognized Taiwan, so China has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/26/chinas-trade-halt-with-lithuania-over-taiwan-ties-sends-warning-to-europe">cut off trade with Lithuania</a>.
This is meant as a threat to other EU countries.
<p>
The US should recognize Taiwan and let China to make whatever trouble
it likes.  That may be uncomfortable for the US in the short term, but
it will ultimately weaken China.


feed_id: 9f7cf6aa3564bef81bcde94c9f812730
title: Brainwashing Navalny
uri: Brainwashing-Navalny
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Brainwashing_Navalny%29
content:
<p>

Navalny says that Putin is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/26/alexei-navalny-russia-prison-state-tv-china-labour-camp-psychological-violence">trying to brainwash him</a> by making him watch
Russian State TV for 8 hours every day.


feed_id: d5518e4b735f64a212e58253dbb1772d
title: Six years in prison
uri: Six-years-in-prison
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Six_years_in_prison%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/25/michigan-governor-kidnap-plot-sentence-ty-garbin-gretchen-whitmer">Six years in prison</a> for one member of a right-wing plot to kidnap
Governor Whitmer of Michigan.
<p>
Under today's circumstances, others are likely to talk each other into
trying violence against her.


feed_id: 69e733f32dfdd7d996f4b0e51ee56a6e
title: Bigger corporations lobby more
uri: Bigger-corporations-lobby-more
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Bigger_corporations_lobby_more%29
content:
<p>

A study finds that bigger corporations <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/25/democracy-sale-analysis-ties-corporate-consolidation-increased-lobbying">tend to lobby more</a>, and this
lobbying gives them increased power over government policies.
<p>
It follows that making regulation effective requires making big
companies much smaller.


feed_id: 09c279f00fbe1a29f8a4a7fd410ee899
title: Famine in Madagascar
uri: Famine-in-Madagascar
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Famine_in_Madagascar%29
content:
<p>

The <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/25/unprecedented-madagascar-verge-worlds-first-climate-fueled-famine">famine in Madagascar is caused by drought</a>.  The drought is caused
by <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.


feed_id: 9e3d168f696ad8278e071f12a55781a8
title: Duty to protect against wildfires
uri: Duty-to-protect-against-wildfires
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Duty_to_protect_against_wildfires%29

content:
<p>

A court ruled that the New South Wales environmental regulator
had failed in its duty to protect the state from dangerous wildfires,
and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/aug/26/nsw-bushfire-survivors-win-legal-battle-ordering-epa-to-take-action-on-climate-crisis">ordered it to reduce emissions</a>.


feed_id: bc90e54c233c660932c1e6c27f1238e4
title: Drought in Chile
uri: Drought-in-Chile
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Drought_in_Chile%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">Global heating</a> has heated up part of the Pacific Ocean in a persistent
way, and it is <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-chile-drought/climate-change-fueling-warm-ocean-blob-causing-chile-megadrought-study-idUSKBN2FR18J">causing a lasting drought in Chile</a>.


feed_id: ef1ebfaa0e22235b415c1b6d8ba3761f
title: Terrorists shot at a military plane
uri: Terrorists-shot-at-a-military-plane
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Terrorists_shot_at_a_military_plane%29

content:
<p>

Terrorists (presumably not working for the Taliban) <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanisatan-conflict-italy-airplane/italian-military-plane-fired-at-as-it-left-kabul-airport-defence-source-idUSKBN2FR178">shot at a military
plane</a> that was evacuating civilians from Kabul airport.


feed_id: 4996a65dd77f33699586bb127f57d282
title: Garment companies in Bangladesh
uri: Garment-companies-in-Bangladesh
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Garment_companies_in_Bangladesh%29

content:
<p>

The agreement to drop garment companies in Bangladesh that endanger
workers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/26/fashion-brands-sign-new-deal-on-bangladesh-garment-workers-safety">will soon expire</a>, but a new agreement is stronger.


feed_id: 27a09f372b4385a3aacc71c429e4c5a8
title: Gentrifying Montana
uri: Gentrifying-Montana
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Gentrifying_Montana%29
content:
<p>

Outsiders are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/aug/26/american-west-income-inequality">gentrifying Montana at amazing speed</a>, so it has become
like San Francisco: people who do working-class jobs can't afford
to live there.


feed_id: 6fd0069f4154478bfe03c525d6b16b61
title: Migrant worker deaths in Qatar
uri: Migrant-worker-deaths-in-Qatar
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Migrant_worker_deaths_in_Qatar%29
content:
<p>

*Qatar has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/26/qatar-has-failed-to-explain-up-to-70-of-migrant-worker-deaths-in-past-10-years-amnesty">failed to explain</a> up to 70% of migrant worker deaths in past 10
years – Amnesty.*
The total number of deaths was 6,500, and each one passed a medical
exam before going to Qatar.  This suggests that Qatar allows unsafe
working conditions.


feed_id: 9307705b2f1c64939e7878b331885027
title: New South Wales Delta variant
uri: New-South-Wales-Delta-variant
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28New_South_Wales_Delta_variant%29
content:
<p>

New South Wales is beginning to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/aug/26/more-than-1000-covid-cases-a-day-in-nsw-and-we-are-told-we-can-have-a-picnic-welcome-to-the-future">abandon its battle</a> to put an end to
the outbreak of Delta variant.
<p>
Could it have succeeded if it had tried harder?  China seems to be
approaching success.  Taiwan is not a pertinent comparison, since its
outbreak is of the Alpha variant.


feed_id: a10d5590c8f924abdf19e8c51c8287f1
title: London's golf courses
uri: London-s-golf-courses
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28London%27s_golf_courses%29
content:
<p>

Idea: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/aug/26/london-golf-courses-could-provide-homes-for-300000-people-study-says">turn London's golf courses into parks and housing</a>.


feed_id: 5725a62e2522616d7fa69d5eccec7bc6
title: Prisoners work, rights and wages
uri: Prisoners-work-rights-and-wages
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Prisoners_work%2C_rights_and_wages%29

content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/26/prisoners-uk-labour-shortage-exploited">Giving prisoners work</a>, along with workers' rights and good wages,
is good for everyone.


feed_id: a54995114277f216dd04893d74ffcfa6
title: Least bad option for Afghanistan
uri: Least-bad-option-for-Afghanistan
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Least_bad_option_for_Afghanistan%29

content:
<p>

*Analysis: Islamic State attack signals West's <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-taliban-west-ana/analysis-islamic-state-attack-signals-wests-least-bad-option-for-afghanistan-the-taliban-idUSKBN2FS0ZX">least bad option for
 Afghanistan</a> &mdash; the Taliban.*
<p>
I've been saying this for a while.
<p>
In addition to fighting the local branch of <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#pissi">PISSI</a>, there is the issue
of preserving some of the improvement in women's rights.  With a good
relationship with the Taliban, western countries could support the
leaders that can be convinced to allow women to leave the house alone,
study, and work.


feed_id: ffffc8dce0e671a9d40042af3b3fe40c
title: Risk assessments for dangerous chemicals
uri: Risk-assessments-for-dangerous-chemicals
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Risk_assessments_for_dangerous_chemicals%29

content:
<p>

*EPA is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/27/epa-whistleblowers-falsifying-risk-assessments-dangerous-chemicals">falsifying risk assessments</a> for dangerous chemicals, say
whistleblowers.*
<p>
Sometimes the managers bow to pressure from companies by deleting
scientists' reports of hazards, without informing them.  Or forbid
employees from talking with other EPA personnel.  "Managers seem to
think their job is to get as many new chemicals on the market as fast
as possible," said a whistleblower.
<p>
This started before the corrupter was elected.


feed_id: 7e516dca9dd5d6a31c9ccb247bc6f74a
title: West's military presence
uri: West-s-military-presence
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28West%27s_military_presence%29
content:
<p>

*   From relying on outsourced contractors to failing to tackle corruption,
   the west's military presence was <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/27/afghanistan-nato-mission-corruption-military-soldier">not fit for purpose</a>.*


feed_id: ec9ee7fc3c83c4c5f0f3390da83155d3
title: Intelligence on protest organizers
uri: Intelligence-on-protest-organizers
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Intelligence_on_protest_organizers%29

content:
<p>

*Minnesota Law Enforcement <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/27/enbridge-line-3-pipeline-police-training-intelligence/">[gave] Intelligence on Protest Organizers [to]
 Pipeline Company</a>.*
<p>
(I object to use of the positive term "sharing" to refer to 
private redistribution of unpublished data bass of personal data.)
<p>
*Local law enforcement has become the brutal arm of a Canadian corporation.*


feed_id: 0db8f6fae1c5dc597d66e54a0893fe4f
title: Rohingya to get Covid-19 vaccination
uri: Rohingya-to-get-Covid-19-vaccination
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Rohingya_to_get_Covid-19_vaccination%29

content:
<p>

Burma's military government has decided to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-myanmar-politics-rohingya/myanmar-to-extend-covid-19-vaccinations-to-rohingya-minority-idUSKBN2FS0J9">let Rohingya get Covid-19
vaccination</a>.


feed_id: 4fd785c74c7543f7955b91571ba5e652
title: Burmese suppression forces
uri: Burmese-suppression-forces
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#28_August_2021_%28Burmese_suppression_forces%29
content:
<p>

The Burmese suppression forces have <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-myanmar-politics-deaths/they-challenged-myanmars-junta-it-cost-them-their-lives-idUSKBN2FS0ED">killed over 1,000 people</a> who were
protesting or fighting the coup.
<p>
Let's not apply the term "security forces" to an army that is fighting to
subjugate people rather than to make them secure.


feed_id: 262689246e55d3279e567466c15a7e75
title: Urgent: Fossil fuels in supply chains
uri: Urgent-Fossil-fuels-in-supply-chains
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Fossil_fuels_in_supply_chains%29

content:
<p>

Everyone: Remind Lululemon, Under Armour, and Athleta to carry out the
commitment to <a href="https://act.stand.earth/page/26072/petition/1?ea.tracking.id=email-kick">get fossil fuel out of their supply chains</a>.


feed_id: e2841aa15a73671bac25e0040be87f0b
title: North Korean prisoners
uri: North-Korean-prisoners
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28North_Korean_prisoners%29
content:
<p>

A UN report says that North Korea hits prisoners with wooden boards and
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/27/we-were-punch-bags-north-korean-prison-beatings-may-be-form-of-torture-says-un">forces them into hard labor, while starving them</a>.


feed_id: 294e520c1cd2a784fc6ab08b229315fc
title: Texas voter-suppression bill
uri: Texas-voter-suppression-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Texas_voter-suppression_bill%29
content:
<p>

Texas Republicans have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/27/texas-house-passes-sweeping-voting-restrictions-bill">passed their voter-suppression bill</a>.
<p>
If a few more Democrats had had the courage to stay away,
they could have prevented this.  Sometimes it's clear what
your duty is, and you must do it even if it hurts.


feed_id: 139d288df82aa4b0e9df7df8ddd8ca36
title: Big oil blocking climate action
uri: Big-oil-blocking-climate-action
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Big_oil_blocking_climate_action%29

content:
<p>

As Canada heads to an election, the power of Big Oil is suppressing
discussion of climate mayhem.  <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/26/its-not-human-stupidity-blocking-climate-action-its-big-oil">*It's Not Human Stupidity That Is
Blocking Climate Action, It's Big Oil.*</a>
<p>
The article recommends voting for the NDP because it advocates a wealth tax.
That would not directly address the problem, but it could weaken the power
of the rich.  Is this better than voting for the Green Party?
I don't know what the Canadian Green Party is like.


feed_id: 2fdf80a3d74af0a4650612235de65ffd
title: Artistic work
uri: Artistic-work
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Artistic_work%29
content:
<p>

How can you love any artistic work, if a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/26/opinions/ted-lasso-louis-ck-end-of-fandom-stewart/index.html">discovering an alleged or
real bad aspect of its author</a> makes you feel disgust for it?


feed_id: e404076207f27cec05486e27b918488d
title: Atmospheric CO2 levels
uri: 2021-08-29-Atmospheric-CO2-levels
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Atmospheric_CO2_levels%29
content:
<p>

*Atmospheric CO2 Levels <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/25/atmospheric-co2-levels-havent-been-high-800000-years-noaa">Haven't Been This High in 800,000 Years</a>: NOAA.*


feed_id: 791f3fb7173782f22e819b494f1566a4
title: Rights to buy an election
uri: Rights-to-buy-an-election
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Rights_to_buy_an_election%29
content:
<p>

*According to US Supreme Court, Right to Buy an Election <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/25/according-us-supreme-court-right-buy-election-more-protected-right-vote-one">More Protected Than
Right to Vote in One</a>.*


feed_id: e1528766147fae2159da296e21d8f810
title: (satire) Vaccine skeptic
uri: (satire)-Vaccine-skeptic
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Vaccine_skeptic%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *Vaccine Skeptic <a href="https://www.theonion.com/vaccine-skeptic-does-own-research-by-enrolling-45-000-f-1847556258">Does Own Research</a> By Enrolling 45,000
Friends In Double-Blind Clinical Trial.*


feed_id: 11308db68744926498bdbdfbb42a5303
title: Louisiana state thug
uri: Louisiana-state-thug
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Louisiana_state_thug%29
content:
<p>

A Louisiana state thug was caught on video <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/25/us/louisiana-body-camera-police-beating/index.html">beating a black motorist's
head with a flashlight</a>.  The thug now faces charges of second degree
battery.
<p>
The dialog between them suggests that the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> perceived the motorist
as fighting him, though in fact the motorist was helpless and saying
"I'm not resisting."  It seems that racists often get carried away in
this fashion
<p>
We can't tolerate people in a police department who will let rage
blind them to reality such that they beat people up.


feed_id: 20cedc26c6e6be1136d9993eabbcabab
title: Colombian social reform
uri: Colombian-social-reform
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Colombian_social_reform%29
content:
<p>

*Colombians march to urge Congress to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-colombia-protests/colombians-march-to-urge-congress-to-back-social-reform-package-idUSKBN2FR1ZA">back social reform package</a>.*


feed_id: a58dc9a106a08e4beec725e878ff42bd
title: Suing over 6 January attack
uri: Suing-over-6-January-attack
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Suing_over_6_January_attack%29
content:
<p>

*Capitol police officers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/26/donald-trump-capitol-attack-police-officers-lawsuit-far-right-roger-stone">sue [the wrecker] and far-right groups</a> over 6 January
 attack.*


feed_id: ccfa1ca653c67338935a7a707cbc54b0
title: Thai thug department chief
uri: Thai-thug-department-chief
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Thai_thug_department_chief%29
content:
<p>

The chief of a Thai thug department has been arrested and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/26/thai-police-chief-accused-of-killing-suspect-in-custody-is-arrested">accused of
torturing a suspect to death</a> while trying to extort money from him.


feed_id: ea96f4acbcdf8f26ed3c023a42dd3fd6
title: Afghan dogs
uri: Afghan-dogs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Afghan_dogs%29
content:
<p>

As the UK hurried to rescue as many as possible of the Afghan human beings 
who had supported its forces and diplomats, an animal lover pushed to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/26/uk-defence-secretary-hits-out-supporters-animal-rescuer-kabul-paul-pen-farthing">divert
effort into rescuing some dogs</a>.
<p>
I understand that it is possible to love a dog very much, but any human
being's life is more important than any dog's life.


feed_id: 286147214ed7730faa06b597f3698120
title: CIA war crimes
uri: CIA-war-crimes
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28CIA_war_crimes%29
content:
<p>

*Seven Months In,
 Avril Haines Shows <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/26/afghanistan-cia-war-crimes/">No Appetite for Investigating CIA War Crimes</a>.*
<p>
Haines is the Director of National Intelligence, and is above the head
of the CIA, so she has the power to make this happen.


feed_id: 5e5fc6fb4d0844719a8756ad4eebed8f
title: Invest in Central America
uri: Invest-in-Central-America
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Invest_in_Central_America%29
content:
<p>

*Mexico seeks to convince U.S. to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-immigration-mexico/mexico-seeks-to-convince-u-s-to-invest-in-central-america-not-just-migration-curbs-idUSKBN2FR19E">invest in Central America</a>,
 not just migration curbs.*
<p>
That would be a good step 1, but first should come step 0: to stop
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2014-jul-oct.html#07_August_2014_(US_owes_reparations_to_Guatemala's_poor)">investing in repression</a> that makes it hard for people to survive in
some countries of Central America.


feed_id: 1351c6132c9da776e15b23ef0da747f8
title: Stop the harm
uri: Stop-the-harm
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Stop_the_harm%29
content:
<p>

*XR protesters tell UK government: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/26/extinction-rebellion-protesters-tell-uk-government-stop-the-harm-of-fossil-fuels">‘stop the harm’ of fossil fuels</a>.*


feed_id: be5646179ae3b5abea6e3b80925cc2a3
title: Bricking Samsung TVs
uri: Bricking-Samsung-TVs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Bricking_Samsung_TVs%29
content:
<p>

Samsung TVs have a back door with which Samsung can <a href="https://www.pcmag.com/news/samsung-can-remotely-disable-any-of-its-tvs-worldwide">brick them remotely</a>.


feed_id: 1af2dd7f81aaeb6eedb54b1f2482c223
title: (satire) An hour wait
uri: (satire)-An-hour-wait
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_An_hour_wait%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *Apologetic Nurse Informs Man Having Heart Attack There's
<a href="https://www.theonion.com/apologetic-nurse-informs-man-having-heart-attack-there-1847564246">About An Hour Wait</a> Until Next Covid Patient Dies.*


feed_id: 2d8fc4f35173a6db0e373f20f5c64276
title: Whistleblower Daniel Hale
uri: Whistleblower-Daniel-Hale
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Whistleblower_Daniel_Hale%29
content:
<p>

Ilhan Omar called on Biden to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/26/ilhan-omar-joe-biden-pardon-drone-whistleblower-daniel-hale">pardon drone attack whistleblower Daniel Hale</a>.


feed_id: 8f196242cec1f6f1bac19c804dd6ac68
title: Poor People's campaign
uri: Poor-People-s-campaign
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Poor_People%27s_campaign%29
content:
<p>

The Poor People's Campaign in West Virginia is trying to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/26/poor-peoples-campaign-joe-manchin-stop-hiding-behind-cowardly-filibuster">pressure
Senator Manchin</a> over his support for the filibuster.


feed_id: cfec448429965a0cdf16890afe0a8023
title: Violence by uniformed thugs
uri: Violence-by-uniformed-thugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Violence_by_uniformed_thugs%29
content:
<p>

The US Supreme Court has been <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/26/politics/policing-supreme-court-race-deconstructed-newsletter/index.html">lax in using the Constitution to limit
violence by uniformed thugs</a>.


feed_id: 695ee06d150e33fe792250fb8e489aa9
title: Uber and Lyft
uri: 2021-08-29-Uber-and-Lyft
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Uber_and_Lyft%29
content:
<p>

Uber and Lyft are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/aug/27/gig-workers-massachusetts-lawsuit-independent-contractor-status">fighting with their drivers</a> about how whether
drivers can specify which kinds of rides they will take &mdash; and whether
company control over this means the drivers are not independent
contractors.
<p>
Meanwhile, the companies hope the public will vote to let the companies
exploit the drivers.  The customers are invited to assume that more
exploitation must mean lower fares &mdash; but even if that were true,
would it be just?
<p>
Sad to say, there is no motion in the direction of <a href="https://stallman.org/uber.html">preserving
customers' anonymity or respecting their software freedom</a>.


feed_id: a0a7e94876101946be120b5d21c2d142
title: Delta variant and hospitalizations
uri: Delta-variant-and-hospitalizations
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Delta_variant_and_hospitalizations%29

content:
<p>

The Delta variant of Covid-19 is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/27/delta-covid-variant-doubles-risk-hospitalisation-new-study-finds">twice as likely</a> as the Alpha variant
to put an unvaccinated person in the hospital.


feed_id: 291d14347e126181823092cf35606e8d
title: Eviction moratorium
uri: 2021-08-29-Eviction-moratorium
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Eviction_moratorium%29
content:
<p>

The Supreme Court <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/27/eviction-moratorium-supreme-court-pandemic/">eliminated the federal eviction moratorium</a> in a
hasty way, not bothering to listening to the arguments.
<p>
It seems to be a matter of right-wing ideology, pure and simple.


feed_id: df96bf4b40add2352aa24b2c69194ea6
title: Afghan women health service staff
uri: Afghan-women-health-service-staff
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Afghan_women_health_service_staff%29

content:
<p>

*Taliban say Afghan women health service staff <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-women-health/taliban-say-afghan-women-health-service-staff-should-go-back-to-work-idUSKBN2FS1PK">should go back to work</a>.*
<p>
I'm sure they will still deny women the rights they deserve, but it
may not be much worse than the previous government of Afghanistan.


feed_id: d95ca43dc69953b3473cd474026ff4b4
title: Artistic work
uri: 2021-08-30-Artistic-work
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Artistic_work%29
content:
<p>

How can you love any artistic work, if <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/26/opinions/ted-lasso-louis-ck-end-of-fandom-stewart/index.html">discovering an alleged or
real bad aspect of its author</a> makes you feel disgust for it?


feed_id: 91aa2921f4b7019a36a580447abd5cd6
title: Uber and Lyft
uri: 2021-08-30-Uber-and-Lyft
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#29_August_2021_%28Uber_and_Lyft%29
content:
<p>

Uber and Lyft are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/aug/27/gig-workers-massachusetts-lawsuit-independent-contractor-status">fighting with their drivers</a> about how
drivers can specify which kinds of rides they will take &mdash; and whether
company control over this means the drivers are not independent
contractors.
<p>
Meanwhile, the companies hope the public will vote to let the companies
exploit the drivers.  The customers are invited to assume that more
exploitation must mean lower fares &mdash; but even if that were true,
would it be just?
<p>
Sad to say, there is no motion in the direction of <a href="https://stallman.org/uber.html">preserving
customers' anonymity or respecting their software freedom</a>.


feed_id: 6909ef1a6813b7ed30f14486808ec582
title: Urgent: Vote Braly and McNerney out
uri: Urgent-Vote-Braly-and-McNerney-out
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Vote_Braly_and_McNerney_out%29

content:
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.stand.earth/page/32869/petition/1">call on P&amp;G's investors</a> to vote Angela
Braly and James McNerney out of the board.


feed_id: c7c5bf2017815b5a08d645901f8f22be
title: Urgent: oppose bill "get tough on crime"
uri: Urgent-oppose-bill-get-tough-on-crime
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_oppose_bill_
content:
<p>
US citizens: phone your congresscritter to oppose any federal bill to
"get tough on crime."

<p>
I've seen an email that specifically mentioned the danger of laws that
would offer additional funds for hiring cops, or punish local
governments for prioritizing gentle and helpful ways of reducing
crime, such as housing, violence prevention and jobs, rather than
policing and incarceration.

<p>
You can mention those points in your phone call, if you wish.

<p>
I got this from a petition which I cannot sign or recommend, even
though I agree with what it says, because signing requires running
nonfree Javascript code.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard numbers are 202-224-3121, 888-818-6641
and 888-355-3588.</p>


feed_id: 36e41917ed2a495bdee0edf21a952ec1
title: Doctors Without Dimensions
uri: Doctors-Without-Dimensions
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Doctors_Without_Dimensions%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/humanitarian-organization-doctors-without-dimensions-1847559423">satire</a>) *Humanitarian Organization "Doctors Without Dimensions"
Phases Into War-Torn Nonlinear Universe.*

<p>
I wonder whether a "doctor without dimensions" is a single mathematical point,
or a nonmeasurable set.


feed_id: dc62623dc5e44feee7315e3262dfa3da
title: Unvaccinated teacher
uri: Unvaccinated-teacher
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Unvaccinated_teacher%29
content:
<p>
*Unvaccinated teacher infected half her students with Covid.* She went
to work despite having symptoms, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/28/unvaccinated-teacher-infected-half-her-students-covid-california-cdc">and read to the students without a mask on</a>.

<p>
This was triple disregard for the safety of others.


feed_id: a007fc46172d08fcd03862530406c03b
title: Uninsurable houses
uri: Uninsurable-houses
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Uninsurable_houses%29
content:
<p>
Houses in parts of California <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/27/wildfires-california-mountain-towns-climate-crisis">are becoming uninsurable</a>.

<p>
For the people who own and live in those houses, that is a disaster;
most Americans don't have money to put a down payment on a new house
if they can't sell the old one.  However, insuring those houses so
that they get repeatedly rebuilt would be unending waste, like trying
to fill a leaky bathtub.

<p>
The right solution, I think, is for the US government to buy their houses
for what would have been a fair price when they were insurable.

<p>
I wonder if it is feasible to build underground houses that usually
won't be damaged by wildfires.  The inhabitants will still have to
evacuate as fire comes, but with luck the house will be unscathed
after the fire passes.

<p>
Controlled burns are clearly a good thing to do, but there is a lot of
political opposition to that, partly because there is never a safe
time for it nowadays.  When people see the danger of not doing them
exceeds the danger of doing them, they will start.


feed_id: 6b7730d5a7f3fb5a7161c6bd7245b2d1
title: Slow to evacuate
uri: Slow-to-evacuate
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Slow_to_evacuate%29
content:
<p>
The US is not to blame for the PIS attack at Kabul airport, but it is
to blame <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-usa-pentagon/didnt-need-to-happen-pentagon-seeks-answers-for-deadly-attack-idUSKBN2FT02W">for being so slow to evacuate Afghans who were in danger
because of working with the US</a>.

<p>
The main consequence of that failure is that tens of thousands (at
least) are now unable to get out.  If indeed the Taliban persecute
some of them, that could be fatal.  It could be fatal for far more
people than the bombing.


feed_id: c3626fc46eb802775c5e342271cf7832
title: Anti-vaxxers
uri: Anti-vaxxers
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Anti-vaxxers%29
content:
<p>
Anti-vaxxers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/28/vaccine-wars-decision-vaccine-tearing-loved-ones-apart">are tearing families apart</a>.

<p>
Most anti-vaxxers are also subject to conspiracy ideation, which is in
itself a reason to limit contact with them.  Communication with
someone who has lost contact with reality, outside of purely practical
topics, is sure to feel like pressure to tolerate the delusion.


feed_id: 26324ff9377f82b2b1788722c515b9bf
title: The real OnlyFans scandal
uri: The-real-OnlyFans-scandal
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28The_real_OnlyFans_scandal%29
content:
<p>
*The real OnlyFans scandal is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/28/onlyfans-scandal-platforms-banks-ban-sexual-content-sex-workers">the unaccountable power of platforms and banks</a>.*

<p>
What gives them this power is (1) making users run nonfree software
and (2) being able to set their terms and conditions arbitrarily
within a very broad range.

<p>
The nonfree software enables them to collect data secretly.  We need
to require that all client software be free, so users can have control
over what it does.  In particular, so they can fix it not to spy on
them, regardless of what the platform owners wish.

<p>
The rest of their power comes from imposing whatever terms and
conditions they like.  There are some legal limits, but not enough.
We need to limit what platforms can require, just as we (in some
places) limit what conditions a landlord can require in a lease
for a residence.

<p>
Laws are not invariably good.  Indeed, OnlyFans's plan to kick off the
core of its clients was triggered by a law whose purposes is
repression (sexual and legal).  But at least we have a chance, to the
extent democracy functions, of changing the law.


feed_id: 12ab0e875b0dffe11e8134bd7b744cde
title: Protest against destruction of the Amazon
uri: Protest-against-destruction-of-the-Amazon
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Protest_against_destruction_of_the_Amazon%29

content:
<p>
*Brazil's Indigenous Groups Mount <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/28/brazil-amazon-indigenous-protest/">Unprecedented Protest Against
Destruction of the Amazon</a>.*

<p>
Today's step-by-step deforestation hits them first, and will hit
everyone over decades.


feed_id: 898db81cfaa702ff1b92bb4931587e84
title: Fusion power
uri: Fusion-power
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Fusion_power%29
content:
<p>
Fusion power continues to make progress.  Recently one experiment came
to 70% of break-even, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/28/the-race-to-give-nuclear-fusion-a-role-in-the-climate-emergency">using a somewhat academic standard of
break-even</a>.

<p>
Fusion may someday work, but considering the number of advances still
needed for it to make a useful contribution to replacing fossil fuels,
I don't think 30 years is enough time.  And that's how much time we
have to finish saving civilization.  So we can't do that with fusion
power; we need to do that with the forms of generation that already
function at commercial scale.

<p>
Fossil fuel companies probably hope we will convince ourselves that
fusion will save us, so we will let them keep on burning ever more oil
for another decade or two.  But if we do that, it will be too late.


feed_id: 59a87b74d2f7824e1d2bcef9434a49c1
title: Blocking airport
uri: Blocking-airport
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Blocking_airport%29
content:
<p>
The Taliban <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/28/taliban-surround-kabul-airport-with-extra-forces-after-attack">are blocking people from reaching Kabul airport</a>.


feed_id: 5fe5356122aa1e1f883d56b4ea8eecf1
title: Price rising
uri: Price-rising
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Price_rising%29
content:
<p>
Prices have been rising in the UK, so the Tories <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/aug/26/planned-cut-to-universal-credit-could-push-more-than-2m-people-into-debt">are planning to cut
welfare benefits</a>.


feed_id: 8d0161d2d5247a095a2abfd58d4c8e52
title: Climate fund
uri: Climate-fund
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Climate_fund%29
content:
<p>
*"Use your £11bn climate fund <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/aug/26/use-your-11bn-climate-fund-to-pay-for-family-planning-uk-told">to pay for family planning</a>," UK told.*

<p>
As a way to reduce future environmental damage, and curb greenhouse
emissions, this is tremendously efficient.


feed_id: 56b380b2d32e6cca7248b732b4c2d980
title: Private profit motive
uri: Private-profit-motive
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Private_profit_motive%29
content:
<p>
Proposing a way to take some of the private profit motive
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/28/lets-take-profit-out-war">out of US war and military spending</a>.


feed_id: 7b071f1f6321fed0a73bde2208ee5264
title: Enemy of enemy
uri: Enemy-of-enemy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Enemy_of_enemy%29
content:
<p>
*The west has to ask itself: if IS is the enemy, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/27/islamic-state-enemy-taliban-afghanistan-kabul-airport-bombers">does that make the Taliban
our friends</a>?*

<p>
We must hope so.  It would snatch a peaceful success (better than mere
"victory") out of the jaws of defeat, and provide a chance for thoughtful
diplomacy to advance women's rights a little.


feed_id: 5505a6dacd785b52c6084349d9a0b082
title: Urgent: Dissolve the National Rifle Association
uri: Urgent-Dissolve-the-National-Rifle-Association
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Dissolve_the_National_Rifle_Association%29

content:
<p>

Everyone: call for <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-its-time-to-dissolve-the-nra-now">dissolving the National Rifle Association</a>.
For decades it has <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/28/us/race-politics-gun-control-the-price-of-freedom/index.html">linked itself to white supremacism</a>.
Nowadays it is simply a <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2019-sep-dec.html#8_September_2019_(NRA_designated_as_a_terrorist_organization)">marketing agency</a> for guns.


feed_id: fbe70ddf0a79ec0aa7a09cea13ab1efa
title: Urgent: Climate leader as chair of the Federal Reserve
uri: Urgent-Climate-leader-as-chair-of-the-Federal-Reserve
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Climate_leader_as_chair_of_the_Federal_Reserve%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Biden to <a herf="https://act.350.org/sign/climatefedchair/?akid=166650.1151744.8NBxhv&rd=1&source=em20210827-2-pt&t=1009">nominate a climate leader</a> as Chair of
the Federal Reserve.


feed_id: 1192ea3ae41169618a9d73b0eb0a0356
title: Generic drug plant
uri: Generic-drug-plant
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Generic_drug_plant%29
content:
<p>

The largest generic drug plant in the US <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/26/publicly-owned-generic-drugs-are-answer">recently closed</a>.  The government might
have been able to stop this.
<p>
Was it really possible to invoke the Defense Production Act.  There
may have been some legal barrier to doing so &mdash; I don't know.  To form
an organization to buy the plant and keep it operating might have been
another method.  So why wasn't this done?
<p>
I wonder if this has something to do with placating Senator Manchin.
If so, I think the public got the short end of the deal, since he still
refuses to eliminate the filibuster.


feed_id: 26d4b7846dc81316411e8f7d65b0c0ee
title: Family aid bill compromise
uri: Family-aid-bill-compromise
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Family_aid_bill_compromise%29
content:
<p>

Sanders refuses to negotiate a "compromise" to make the family aid
bill smaller, saying that he's <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/26/bernie-sanders-says-35-trillion-spending-plan-minimum">already done that negotiation</a> and the
current bill is the deal that was agreed on.
<p>
It's a standard tactic of right-wing politicians, whether Republican
or Democrat, to demand we meet them half-way, starting from a deal in
which we met them half way.  The result is to meet them three-quarters
of the way.

             Then they may try it again and demand another eighth.

Usually Democrats go along with that, but progressives today
won't do it.
<p>
If we can't help renegotiating, we should start from our original
starting proposal &mdash; the whole of what we really ought to do for
non-rich Americans.


feed_id: 065eeacae5c984c6ebbdd114e2904b8e
title: David Werking's porn collection
uri: David-Werking-s-porn-collection
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28David_Werking%27s_porn_collection%29

content:
<p>

David Werking stayed in his parents' house for 10 months, then later
discovered that they had <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2021/aug/27/judge-michigan-couple-pay-son-porn-collection">thrown out his collection of porn</a> while it
was there.  He sued them and won about $30,000 plus his legal fees.
<p>
The parents seem to have believed that, despite David's being 42 years
old and formerly married, he was still their little baby and they were
entitled to dictate his sex life.  Most parents don't take this sense
of entitlement to the point of being ridiculous, but many try to
control offspring that have already developed their own idea of
sexuality and desires.


feed_id: 8a1e1dc79e85e51594a840f916c2e215
title: Fake concern
uri: Fake-concern
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Fake_concern%29
content:
<p>

Afghanistan was <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/27/asking-if-afghanistan-will-become-breeding-ground-terror-wrong-question">never a "breeding ground"</a> for terrorism against the
US, so disregard attempts to distract you with that fake concern.
<p>
The article refers to <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#dubya">Dubya</a>'s dubious claim to have won the 2000 election,
but it's much worse than that.  We know that the election was <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2004-jan-apr.html#08%20April%202004%20(GOP%20Re-Election%20Tactics)">rigged by
Republicans, by voter suppression</a>.
And they're at it again now.


feed_id: 0a1967de89bbe9337c96ab76643846f1
title: Afghan feminists
uri: Afghan-feminists
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Afghan_feminists%29
content:
<p>

Afghan feminists &mdash; the Revolutionary Association of the Women of
Afghanistan &mdash; have said all along that US intervention in Afghanistan
was <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/27/afghan-feminists-warned-us-war-wouldnt-free-them">wrong and would not help Afghan women</a>.
<p>
I first heard of RAWA when I read about its <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2003-jan-apr.html#28_February_2003_(RAWA_opposes_attack)">opposition to the coming
attack on Iraq</a>.
But I learned a lot of background about RAWA from this article.


feed_id: 486159b194fefd6936297653e3039c28
title: (satire) 20-year catastrophe
uri: (satire)-20-year-catastrophe
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_20-year_catastrophe%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *<a href="https://www.theonion.com/nation-stunned-that-20-year-catastrophe-could-end-so-ca-1847572270">Nation Stunned</a> That 20-Year Catastrophe Could End So
Catastrophically.*


feed_id: a6e8716e1717555f982aaab42f50dadf
title: Neonicotinoid pesticides
uri: 2021-08-31-Neonicotinoid-pesticides
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Neonicotinoid_pesticides%29
content:
<p>

The EPA has acknowledged that neonicotinoid pesticides <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/27/ban-neonicotinoids-right-now-say-conservationists-after-epa-pesticide-review">endanger
wildlife</a>.  Each of these pesticides is expected to harm over a
thousand endangered species.
(The precise number affected by each pesticide varies.)
<p>
The EPA should take quick action, especially since some of those
species are important pollinators.


feed_id: 31e60cdfc06afcbefa8577361066910b
title: (satire) Florida lock down
uri: (satire)-Florida-lock-down
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28%28satire%29_Florida_lock_down%29
content:
<p>

(satire) *DeSantis <a href="https://www.theonion.com/desantis-locks-down-florida-after-spread-of-covid-vacci-1847572019">Locks Down Florida</a> After Spread Of Covid
Vaccination Gets Out Of Hand.*


feed_id: 76f23e24b9382d2102a1c2c39615757b
title: Dental insurance lobbyists
uri: Dental-insurance-lobbyists
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Dental_insurance_lobbyists%29
content:
<p>

*Dental, Insurance Lobbyists <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/27/dental-insurance-lobbyists-quietly-target-democrats-medicare-expansion-plan">Quietly Target Democrats' Medicare
 Expansion Plan</a>.*


feed_id: 8677db68d49eb8f5ec38f188bd51f884
title: Mexico's retail
uri: Mexico-s-retail
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Mexico%27s_retail%29
content:
<p>

Mexico's retail, especially food, is being <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/27/walmartland-how-us-stores-colonizing-mexico-are-displacing-local-culture">colonized by multinational
chain stores</a>.
<p>
In some cases, foreign companies bought Mexican supermarket and
restaurant chains.  I think they are nearly all foreign-owned.  The
banks, too.  A decade ago I posted a joke about <a href="spanish-puns.html">Ban-comer and Bananamex</a> &mdash;
nowadays, young Mexicans may not get the joke because those banks
have been swalloped up by multinationals.
<p>
There is also in Mexico a Japanese retail store chain, Mikasa.
Mexicans who see that name may think it is an intentionally misspelled
version of "mi casa", my house.  It is actually the name of a famous
battleship used in the war with Russia in 1905, which was itself named
after a mountain.


feed_id: 2f95ad718f068bf387d4bbe158e1ec4a
title: Afghans with foreign visas
uri: Afghans-with-foreign-visas
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Afghans_with_foreign_visas%29
content:
<p>

The Taliban have said they will <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-travel/taliban-agrees-to-allow-afghans-to-leave-international-statement-says-idUSKBN2FU0HX">allow Afghans with foreign visas to travel</a>.
<p>
That is good news.
<p>
The Taliban don't have full effective control over Afghanistan.  There
may be hateful factions who are trying to find and beat up or kill
women who they consider too "uppity", as well as PIS supporters.
To the Taliban, they will be terrorists and criminals.  The Taliban
is in a much better position to vanquish them than the US was.


feed_id: e7f211c7d4fa17c958ebacd550a3e507
title: Hostility toward NHS doctors
uri: Hostility-toward-NHS-doctors
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Hostility_toward_NHS_doctors%29
content:
<p>

Many Britons are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/29/the-guardian-view-on-attacks-on-nhs-staff-a-grim-and-growing-problem">showing hostility towards NHS doctors and nurses</a>, which
is increasing the pressure on them and causing them PTSD.
<p>
I speculate that many frustrated Britons are using NHS personnel as a
whipping boy for the pain and frustration caused by Covid-19.  They
are not to blame for it.  But the Tories are, for <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2011-jan-apr.html#17%20January%202011%20(Endangering%20Health)">cutting and
undermining the NHS</a> for so many years in accord with their ideology
that the state should never help individuals.


feed_id: 189f01ead8af868055c6596797406447
title: London Science Museum
uri: London-Science-Museum
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28London_Science_Museum%29
content:
<p>

*Extinction Rebellion protesters target [London] Science Museum <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/29/extinction-rebellion-protesters-science-museum-shell-sponsorship">over
 Shell sponsorship</a>.*
<p>
This deal was as corrupt as we could have imagined: the museum let
Shell <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2015-mar-jun.html#2_June_2015_(Shell)">explicitly limit what the exhibit could say</a>.


feed_id: f2dbdcc34ced9c38ef7d1d8836983b21
title: Russian election
uri: 2021-08-31-Russian-election
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Russian_election%29
content:
<p>

After rigging the next Russian election in several ways, so he can't
really lose, Putin still needs to give out handouts to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/29/ruling-united-russia-party-offers-payouts-to-ensure-poll-victory">make people
want to vote</a>.


feed_id: 0d4fc41a6907aebfcb76513c6fdf3677
title: Caleb Wallace
uri: Caleb-Wallace
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Caleb_Wallace%29
content:
<p>

Caleb Wallace, an anti-masker who organized protests for "freedom"
from protecting others, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/29/texas-caleb-wallace-anti-mask-protests-freedom-dies-covid-19">caught Covid-19 and died at the age of 30</a>.
<p>
I am sorry for him, because I don't see him as a rational being who is
responsible for what happened to him.  I won't despise him for having
acted in a way that brought this on himself.
<p>
Rather, I think he was sucked into a contagious and deadly collective
insanity, and it killed him.  It is killing others, too, and I think
that is very unfortunate.
<p>
It will kill many more Americans in coming months.  Dr Fauci <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/29/anthony-fauci-covid-deaths-vaccinations">predicts
around 100,000</a>.
But its deadliness is not limited to the people who believe it.


feed_id: 349965669667feae1dd2a09566f770af
title: Privatizing everything
uri: Privatizing-everything
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Privatizing_everything%29
content:
<p>

Greece's right-wing government aims to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/29/greece-wildfires-political-failure-climate-emergency">privatize everything</a> that the
state owns, including the forests.  Varoufakis explains the local
history that led to such large fires, and the new threat.


feed_id: ac02fa066545a52792aa1e96fade0373
title: Alleged terrorists
uri: Alleged-terrorists
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Alleged_terrorists%29
content:
<p>

Some alleged "terrorists" in the US are in prison solely <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/29/duka-fort-dix-five-post-911-terror-stings/">because of a
prediction</a>, without having even imagined any specific act.
They would probably have been totally harmless if they had not been
stimulated by people working for the FBI.


feed_id: ae55e331ac4693d7e6fe31bb8417fc33
title: UK truck driver shortage
uri: UK-truck-driver-shortage
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28UK_truck_driver_shortage%29
content:
<p>

The UK has a painful <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/aug/29/food-beer-toys-medical-kit-why-is-britain-running-out-of-everything">shortage of truck drivers</a> because businesses have
given them no raises in 35 years &mdash; and impose painful working
conditions too.


feed_id: 23d4f2d72c5a53b601f3ad107e8553ae
title: Anti-apartheid activist
uri: Anti-apartheid-activist
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28Anti-apartheid_activist%29
content:
<p>

An anti-apartheid activist <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/29/south-africa-spy-who-helped-to-end-apartheid">slept with a South African official</a> to get
information for use in campaigning to end apartheid.
<p>
Is this morally different from the British undercover spies who
infiltrated activist movements?  If so, why?
<p>
It may make a difference that the South African regime worked for the
state, and tortured and killed anti-apartheid activists.  The British
activists that UK <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> infiltrated were part of civil society, and
nonviolent by principle.
<p>
That is a big moral difference, but does it relate to this particular
kind of question?  I am not sure.


feed_id: 5e6f3d343e54d386944ef8622bc800ca
title: History of the Alamo
uri: History-of-the-Alamo
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#30_August_2021_%28History_of_the_Alamo%29
content:
<p>

The <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2021/aug/29/forget-the-alamo-review-texas-slavery-mexico-burrough-tomlinson-stanford">history and the myth of the Alamo</a>: were the gringos fighting for
slavery?


feed_id: 2b415fe7cf68f0f31a5104278da12319
title: Abortion providers on abortion law
uri: Abortion-providers-on-abortion-law
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Abortion_providers_on_abortion_law%29

content:
<p>
*Texas abortion providers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/30/texas-abortion-law-sb8-supreme-court">ask supreme court to halt unprecedented
 abortion law</a>.*

<p>
Instead of directly punishing people who get abortions, it would allow
anyone and everyone to sue anyone that plays any role in an abortion
&mdash; even driving the patient to a clinic.  Most people would be bankrupted
by legal expenses before the end of the trial; they would lose by default.

<p>
This kind of law is oppressive regardless of what it is about.  Israel
passed a similar law <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2017-may-aug.html#25_July_2017_(Jailing_boycotters)">to repress advocacy of Gush Shalom's boycott of
products made in Israel's colonies in Palestinian territory</a>,
   because
even people prepared to go to jail for freedom of speech did not dare
expose their families to this risk.


feed_id: e06d29d2863f72bfaa7e44198a94ad7a
title: Understaffed prisons
uri: Understaffed-prisons
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Understaffed_prisons%29
content:
<p>
Georgia's prisons are so understaffed that they don't even notice when
a prisoner is dead.  The result <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/30/georgia-prison-guard-shortage-killing-incarcerated-people/">is an increase in murder in the prison</a>.

<p>
I wonder what is causing the understaffing.


feed_id: 64a8363db438e5210cd2db47e963c51c
title: War addiction
uri: War-addiction
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28War_addiction%29
content:
<p>
Militarists, "addicted to war", don't want to allow the US war in
Afghanistan to end.  They want the US military <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/30/go-back-to-afghanistan-men-like-mcmaster-and-panetta-are-addicted-to-war">to fight "terrorism"
there</a>.

<p>
The Taliban's victory could be a big step forward towards eradicating
PIS, if the US cooperates with the Taliban for this.  Above all, the
US must not mess it up by provoking friction with the Taliban.  For
instance, drone strikes in Afghanistan that kill civilians would be
extremely counterproductive, even if the target is a real terrorist.

<p>
Unfortunately, <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/08/30/drone-kabul-afghanistan-civilian-casualties-children/">that's exactly what is happening</a>.

<p>
(One thing not clear in the article: were the civilians killed the
people in the car, or were they bystanders the vicinity?)

<p>
All US troops are now out of Afghanistan.  The US should adopt a
policy of no air strikes in Afghanistan except in cooperation with the
Taliban.


feed_id: cecb4db22ce9f37cc249a429de0dad62
title: Videogaming time
uri: Videogaming-time
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Videogaming_time%29
content:
<p>
China has put tight limits <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/30/china-cuts-amount-of-time-minors-can-spend-playing-video-games">on how much time minors can spend playing
online (networked) games</a>.
  I can't tell whether it is 2 hours per week, or 3 hours per week.

<p>
Part of this legal restriction is that every player will have to prove
identity.  Digital systems to protect minors tend to have this
byproduct, which oppresses everyone.


feed_id: 03889cb8d2f7fb0d8da3acd8c2b266ec
title: Booster third vaccine dose
uri: Booster-third-vaccine-dose
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Booster_third_vaccine_dose%29
content:
<p>
WHO says that a "booster" third vaccine dose <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-who/coronavirus-booster-shots-not-a-luxury-who-europe-head-says-idUSKBN2FV0LT">may be a necessity
for people who have medical vulnerabilities</a>.

<p>
That does not imply they would be a necessity for most adults,
only for a minority.


feed_id: 3ac5b68aefc26b3d3cf3aa9e15062da2
title: Unvaccinated mother
uri: Unvaccinated-mother
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Unvaccinated_mother%29
content:
<p>
*US judge revokes mother’s right to visit son <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/30/us-judge-revokes-mothers-right-to-visit-son-over-her-refusal-to-get-covid-vaccine">over her refusal to get
Covid vaccine</a>.*

<p>
Given that she has had a medical recommendation not to get the
vaccine, her resistance is not mere obstinacy.  So I am not convinced
that it is correct to require her to do so.


feed_id: d9d60345e0478b311161d2837529900f
title: Corrupt state
uri: Corrupt-state
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Corrupt_state%29
content:
<p>
The Afghan state was corrupt in every activity &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/30/afghanistan-us-corruption-taliban">here are details</a>.

<p>
Thus, hardly anyone wanted to fight (or do anything whatsoever) for
that state as such &mdash; only to get in on the graft.


feed_id: 9771a053d3d65a7abb984130f9d7c3c4
title: Gratis lunch for children
uri: Gratis-lunch-for-children
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Gratis_lunch_for_children%29
content:
<p>
A school board rejected gratis lunch for all children,
because that way some children <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/29/free-lunch-doesnt-spoil-schoolchildren">who are not quite as poor as others
might receive help</a>.


feed_id: a578f7cc703b0ecd58e85f75297b5d9f
title: Double standard
uri: Double-standard
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Double_standard%29
content:
<p>
*Contrasting US Withdrawal From Afghanistan With Trump's Abrupt
Departure From Syria.*  <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/29/contrasting-us-withdrawal-afghanistan-trumps-abrupt-departure-syria">A spectacular example of double standard</a>.


feed_id: cceced95aa3102e4885f620f5888e507
title: Pro-war think tanks
uri: Pro-war-think-tanks
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Pro-war_think_tanks%29
content:
<p>
*When Military Contractors <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/29/when-military-contractors-fund-their-own-pro-war-think-tanks">Fund Their Own Pro-War Think Tanks</a>.*


feed_id: ec6d6a6d2b87345dfea332de6a99f81c
title: Labour shortages
uri: Labour-shortages
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28Labour_shortages%29
content:
<p>
*If labour shortages are driving up the wages of low-paid
workers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/aug/29/so-whats-so-wrong-with-labour-shortages-driving-up-low-wages">then what is wrong with that</a>?*


feed_id: 6105dcb6cd553aa82fc8db87bb62c51a
title: New chief chaplain
uri: New-chief-chaplain
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-may-aug.html#31_August_2021_%28New_chief_chaplain%29
content:
<p>
Harvard University's chaplains have unanimously selected a new chief
&mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/aug/28/harvard-university-chief-chaplain-atheist">the Atheist/Humanist chaplain</a>.


feed_id: 80bc660c29932c4454edb5b3205cf557
title: Black box prototype
uri: Black-box-prototype
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Black_box_prototype%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/elizabeth-holmes-arrives-to-trial-with-prototype-for-bl-1847584107">satire</a>) *Elizabeth Holmes Arrives To Trial With Prototype For Black
Box That Will Prove Her Innocence.*


feed_id: 22803f236b321c3217731817fae3911a
title: Selling military training
uri: Selling-military-training
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Selling_military_training%29
content:
<p>
The US sells military training to many countries for their soldiers and <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>.
Because it's done by companies whose highest priority is income, the supposed
safeguards against training fascists who will be hired to torture or murder
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/30/opinions/khashoggi-moise-killers-us-military-trained-hartung-yousif/index.html">are easily bypassed</a>.


feed_id: 74d5ce9357aedd8b18cac5276a0cfb45
title: Precision strike
uri: Precision-strike
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Precision_strike%29
content:
<p>
The propensity of US "precision" drone strikes to kill civilians who were
not the intended target <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/30/us-drone-attack-kills-least-10-afghan-civilians-including-6-children">reminds people that Daniel Hale is in prison
for telling us this</a>.


feed_id: 6652f9fa9dd06013f435861218ed7892
title: Murder of musician
uri: Murder-of-musician
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Murder_of_musician%29
content:
<p>
Taliban murdered an Afghan folk musician.  This is alarming because,
when they ruled, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/08/30/asia/fawad-andarabi-afghan-folk-singer-killed-intl/index.html">they prohibited nonreligious music and enforced the
prohibition harshly</a>.

<p>
They say they won't impose that by force now.  But that isn't much good
unless the Taliban gets control over its zealot wing.


feed_id: 1c71172254cc0ea877232ed6350608da
title: Tough message
uri: Tough-message
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Tough_message%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/u-s-airstrike-sends-tough-message-to-4-year-old-afghan-1847585847">satire</a>) *U.S. Airstrike Sends Tough Message To 4-Year-Old Afghans Not
To Mess With America.*


feed_id: 2ab2310e4bf506f090fadb8b29823ca1
title: Preventable disaster
uri: Preventable-disaster
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Preventable_disaster%29
content:
<p>
The disaster which Hurricane Ida is causing in Louisiana was
preventable.  If we had taken the climate defense action 20 years ago
that climate scientists called for, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/30/after-idas-destruction-sunrise-movement-urges-biden-declare-climate-emergency">we would not have had such a
strong hurricane now</a>.


feed_id: 6d4198e05ae8b2e30ed23cc9ea847754
title: Reckoning
uri: Reckoning
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Reckoning%29
content:
<p>
*   The U.S. troop withdrawal from Afghanistan <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/30/end-catastrophic-war-we-need-face-truth">should force a reckoning
   with a long history of military intervention</a>.*


feed_id: 23bb13324e827a3cdb17e851607738db
title: President without parliament
uri: President-without-parliament
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28President_without_parliament%29
content:
<p>
Tunisia's president, who has deactivated the parliament, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tunisia-politics/tunisians-fret-at-presidents-silence-on-future-idUSKBN2FV1CM">says nothing about
his long term plans for how to govern Tunisia</a>.


feed_id: 00ee3039811455d87270cba05e9c8d92
title: Thug attacks black woman
uri: Thug-attacks-black-woman
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Thug_attacks_black_woman%29
content:
<p>
A Chicago thug violently attacked a woman <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/30/chicago-black-woman-dog-park-police-officer">for walking her dog in a
park after sundown</a>.

<p>
The woman was black, and he did not attack the whites in the park, so
it appears to be racism at work.  However, this violence would have
been wrong regardless of the victim's race.

<p>
People inclined to violence and/or racism should not be allowed to
carry guns.


feed_id: 9c75f0a0366a0abb27cb49d1a02cca24
title: Valuing dogs more
uri: Valuing-dogs-more
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Valuing_dogs_more%29
content:
<p>
*What a story to tell the world: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/30/britain-dogs-afghan-people-pen-farthing">Britain values dogs more than Afghan
 people</a>.*

<p>
We need to put stand more firmly for <em>human rights</em>.
I think some animals should have some limited rights,
but human rights should be the priority.


feed_id: 051c7f185a30544d4f9cdafd45255287
title: Refugees
uri: 2021-09-01-Refugees
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Refugees%29
content:
<p>
The US and the UK were stingy in accepting refugees from Afghanistan.
They rejected many Afghans <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/aug/30/the-guardian-view-on-dealing-with-the-taliban-no-good-options">whom they had a moral obligation to save</a>.

<p>
Only after the Taliban's victory did they realize how wrong this was.
By that time, there was no longer a way to get those people out.
Thus, the reluctance turned into a possibly irreparable failure.

<p>
Why was this?  I think that both the US and the UK governments were in
the habit of acting two general prejudices: against immigrants in general,
and against Muslims in particular.  For these reasons, they sought grounds
to reject whichever Afghans they could.


feed_id: 2e47c58e7b0753816098a193219e15d0
title: Rejected asylum seekers will be tried
uri: Rejected-asylum-seekers-will-be-tried
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Rejected_asylum_seekers_will_be_tried%29

content:
<p>
The Taliban said that rejected Afghan asylum seekers <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-austria-deportee/taliban-would-take-back-europes-afghan-deportees-to-face-courts-says-spokesman-idUSKBN2FV1KA">would face some sort of
trial if sent back to Afghanistan</a>.

<p>
It is not clear from the article whether this refers to all rejected
Afghan asylum seekers, or only some &mdash; perhaps, those rejected based
on accusations of having committed crimes in Afghanistan.  That makes
a big difference.  The latter would be a legitimate policy; the
former, no.


feed_id: ecc213eb5d7ee8e8e72ccf58d66f4fe1
title: Urgent: Reject Rahm Emanuel
uri: Urgent-Reject-Rahm-Emanuel
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Reject_Rahm_Emanuel%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on the Senate to <a href="https://salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/6503/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=14337">reject Rahm Emanuel as ambassador
to Japan</a>.
<p>
To sign without running <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/javascript-trap.html">nonfree JavaScript code</a>
from the web site, use the <a href="https://stallman.org/salsalabs-method.html">Salsalabs workaround</a>.


feed_id: da328da061d21a4543f1adc24738a2c8
title: Urgent: Strengthen Social Security
uri: Urgent-Strengthen-Social-Security
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Strengthen_Social_Security%29

content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/expand-social-security-c3c4">strengthen and expand Social
Security</a>.

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>
  


feed_id: 73bcdd661f2bef23f360c5c911788887
title: Urgent: Aid for Afghans
uri: Urgent-Aid-for-Afghans
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Aid_for_Afghans%29
content:
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to transfer the 3 billion dollars
earmarked for the Afghan army into <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/3-billion-to-save-afghan-lives?source=em20210830&t=1007&akid=7186%2E223515%2EPLe0go">aid for Afghans</a>, in Afghanistan and
evacuating from there

<p>The Capitol Switchboard number is 202-224-3121.</p>
<p>If you call, please spread the word!</p>


feed_id: b8e901aa4326fdd8617c27c56cf42a7c
title: Trial for genocide
uri: Trial-for-genocide
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Trial_for_genocide%29
content:
<p>

*In Guatemala, two ex-generals ordered to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-guatemala-genocide/in-guatemala-two-ex-generals-ordered-to-stand-trial-for-genocide-idUSKBN2FW08A">stand trial for genocide</a>.*
<p>
One was part of the high command, and lead the campaign of
atrocities.


feed_id: 23b36033727388e4ebc18218d3414491
title: Assassination via drones
uri: Assassination-via-drones
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Assassination_via_drones%29
content:
<p>

President Obama expanded US war by turning it into a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/aug/31/how-the-us-created-a-world-of-endless-war">system of
assassination via drones</a>.
It solved the immediate political problem.


feed_id: a3d850a447512aeff50ba43a3ab60db5
title: Eliminating music
uri: Eliminating-music
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Eliminating_music%29
content:
<p>

Radio stations and stores across Afghanistan are self-censoring by
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-music/as-afghanistan-adjusts-to-taliban-rule-music-goes-silent-idUSKBN2FW0DV">eliminating music</a>.
<p>
In Kandahar, the local Taliban have prohibited female announcers.
<p>
By forbidding western culture and Afghan music,
the Taliban will teach young people to yearn for them.
<p>
Of the 700 women journalists in Afghanistan, 600 have been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/01/afghanistan-only-handful-of-female-journalists-still-working">compelled
to stop working</a>.


feed_id: f3f318f50f99439589194c4c45d98dfe
title: Israeli vaccinations
uri: Israeli-vaccinations
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Israeli_vaccinations%29
content:
<p>

80% of Israeli adults are fully vaccinated, but <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/31/israel-registers-record-daily-coronavirus-cases">Covid-19 is spreading
nonetheless</a>.  A mask requirement may turn this around.
<p>
Distancing requirements may be necessary too.


feed_id: 6c9cad5816a3b4fa595b630c5d24e341
title: Command influence
uri: Command-influence
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Command_influence%29
content:
<p>

South Korea is <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-southkorea-military-crime/south-korea-to-try-military-sex-crimes-homicides-in-civilian-courts-idUSKBN2FW0V7">reforming the military justice system</a> to remove command
influence.
<p>
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2008-mar-jun.html#23%20June%202008%20(Case%20against%20officer%20dismissed)">Command influence</a>
enables the commander of a unit to protect favorites from punishment
for crimes.  It is particularly harmful when it <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#25_April_2021_(Sexual_assault_investigations)">protects them from
punishment for rape</a>, which it often does.
<p>
South Korea is moving all sex crimes to civilian courts.
<p>
This would be a good reform for the US to adopt.


feed_id: a52c925257014f725df431c355448201
title: Toxic PFAS
uri: Toxic-PFAS
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Toxic_PFAS%29
content:
<p>

The air inside buildings, including homes and schools, is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/aug/31/pfas-toxic-forever-chemicals-air-breathing">polluted with
toxic PFAS</a> chemicals that seeps out of carpets and other products.
<p>
The article shows that we must not allow the companies that produce
these chemicals, or have any commercial involvement in them, to have
any influence in the task of studying their medical effects or their
prevalence.


feed_id: 1035a2524ef0a1bb5ac75a805cbe4674
title: Adolescents long Covid
uri: Adolescents-long-Covid
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Adolescents_long_Covid%29
content:
<p>

A study finds that adolescents are fairly <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-children/english-study-finds-long-covid-affects-up-to-1-in-7-children-months-after-infection-idUSKBN2FX3GE">likely to get long Covid</a>.
<p>
The article says "children", but in the group of people of age 11 to
17, only a small fraction are children.  Please do not refer to
adolescents as "children".


feed_id: 41f0082857183e336a2df0af144bea16
title: Black box prototype
uri: 2021-09-02-Black-box-prototype
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_%28Black_box_prototype%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/elizabeth-holmes-arrives-to-trial-with-prototype-for-bl-1847584107">satire</a>) *Elizabeth Holmes Arrives To Trial With Prototype For Black
Box That Will Prove Her Innocence.*


feed_id: 6f6ceb9db61bb0e6434efa63f7fd68da
title: Reconciliation Bill and fossil fuel subsidies
uri: Reconciliation-Bill-and-fossil-fuel-subsidies
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Reconciliation_Bill_and_fossil_fuel_subsidies%29

content:
<p>
50 House Democrats (the progressive ones) <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/30/house-democrats-demand-repeal-fossil-fuel-subsidies-reconciliation-bill">demand removal of fossil
fuel subsidies from the Reconciliation Bill</a>.


feed_id: 8d87da4cf2a96b141d69c4d42816e5bd
title: Future paths of nuclear arms development
uri: Future-paths-of-nuclear-arms-development
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Future_paths_of_nuclear_arms_development%29

content:
<p>
Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: we should be investigating possible
future paths of nuclear arms development and (we hope not!) use,
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/30/we-cant-prevent-future-nuclear-wars-unless-we-imagine-them-today">to try to choose better paths and avoid the worst ones</a>.


feed_id: 532cf3627ec1aa5ae6388aaadb794cb0
title: Bigger Tents
uri: Bigger-Tents
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Bigger_Tents%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/new-va-initiative-helps-get-homeless-veterans-into-bigg-1847583830">satire</a>) *New VA Initiative Helps Get Homeless Veterans Into Bigger Tents.*


feed_id: a6883d78546020f68df7d4510e948d42
title: The real threat
uri: The-real-threat
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28The_real_threat%29
content:
<p>
*Two decades after 9/11, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/01/9-11-us-far-right">the real threat to the US is our own far right</a>.*

Republican politicians, both minor and prominent ones, are fomenting
violence against school boards with the aim of intimidation, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/30/gop-candidate-calls-20-strong-men-force-out-pro-mask-school-board-members">so they
won't require masks in schools</a>.

<p>
When right-winger bullies win a victory through intimidation, they
call it a victory, and they vaunt it to whip up more bullies.  We must
give them, instead, failures and defeats.

<p>
It would make sense for school board meetings to bring more than 20
strong men they can trust, perhaps some armed, to maintain security at
the entrances and inside the room.  Plus a few cops, chosen for being
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#police">police officers</a>,
  rather than <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>, to arrest anyone that unmasks or threatens.


feed_id: 313bc4e12552d30baf455476a69e94cf
title: Cleaners union app
uri: Cleaners-union-app
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Cleaners_union_app%29
content:
<p>
A Spanish hotel cleaners' union has developed a reservation app <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/01/five-stars-for-staff-working-conditions-on-new-hotel-booking-app">that rates
hotels on how well they treat their staff</a>.

<p>
That is good &mdash; but does that app treat the customer any better than
the other reservation apps?  Does it work without making the user run
nonfree software?  I doubt it.

<p>
I am sure it requires users to identify themselves, which is one of
the reasons I hate staying in hotels in most of the world.


feed_id: 1a6a070e1e24deb4f48eda59f4265667
title: Infrastructure development
uri: Infrastructure-development
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Infrastructure_development%29
content:
<p>
George Monbiot explains why infrastructure development tends not
to help reduce <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.  The first step is, even good plans
get distorted <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/01/build-environmental-crisis-infrastructure-pandemic-concrete">to prioritize profit for the construction industry
over actual benefit</a>.


feed_id: b1780be6aa06a5b54c33ebad8037c389
title: Air pollution
uri: 2021-09-02-Air-pollution
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Air_pollution%29
content:
<p>
*Air pollution is likely to reduce the life expectancy <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-pollution/pollution-likely-to-cut-9-years-of-life-expectancy-of-40-of-indians-idUSKBN2FX2IB">of about 40% of Indians by more than nine years</a>.*

<p>
The problem affects <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/01/air-pollution-is-slashing-years-off-the-lives-of-billions-report-finds">other large populations, too</a>.
  It is caused mainly by burning coal.


feed_id: 13e1dd6a5123451cb8d5199f544e1340
title: Climate crisis dissatisfaction
uri: Climate-crisis-dissatisfaction
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Climate_crisis_dissatisfaction%29

content:
<p>
Visible signs of the start of the climate crisis have made many
Canadians dissatisfied with the proud planet-roasters of the
Conservative Party, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-canada-election-climate/canadas-infernal-summer-puts-climate-change-at-forefront-of-election-idUSKBN2FX32E">and the foot-draggers of the ruling Liberal Party</a>.


feed_id: 51e37e18b22d1c8b579f74804682bc7d
title: Caldor wildfire
uri: Caldor-wildfire
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Caldor_wildfire%29
content:
<p>
The Caldor wildfire in California <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/01/caldor-fire-lake-tahoe-wildfires-california">is threatening the city of South
Lake Tahoe</a>,
  which has been evacuated.


feed_id: d421efbb45b766dd03002e5b9c2380f0
title: Attacks on journalists
uri: 2021-09-02-Attacks-on-journalists
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Attacks_on_journalists%29
content:
<p>
Right-wing anti-vaxxers in LA <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/01/los-angeles-protest-journalists-attacked-violence">have repeatedly attacked journalists
that cover their protests</a>.
  Uniformed <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> are sometimes present, doing nothing.  Journalists
have accused specific people of attacking them, but the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> say
nothing about arresting the attackers.

<p>
It appears to me that the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> are actively supporting the right-wing
violence.

<p>
On one occasion, leftist counter-protesters attacked a journalist and
stole his phone and backpack.  But that sounds like a panicky
reaction.

<p>
The right-wing, like Nazi brownshirts, attacks aggressively to show
strength.  And they brag about it afterward, because it demonstrates
their strength.

<p>
The sooner the state demonstrates it is more powerful than they,
the less the problem will grow.


feed_id: 65058f5d05a24120ead877e6db635f70
title: Surveillance
uri: 2021-09-02-Surveillance
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Surveillance%29
content:
<p>
One case shows how far the FBI will go to track and surveil a single
person &mdash; <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/09/01/fbi-spy-plane-alazhari-surveillance/">without a warrant</a>.


feed_id: 1ed25d0f372141af80298705eb149772
title: National security law
uri: 2021-09-02-National-security-law
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28National_security_law%29
content:
<p>
Hong Kong's court sentenced several democracy activists to around a year
in prison for a protests for democracy, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/01/hong-kong-democracy-activists-jailed-for-assembly-in-2019-protests">using a "national security" law
passed after those protests took place</a>.


feed_id: ad265849fffcc5620c30187103849ea6
title: Promoting diamond business
uri: Promoting-diamond-business
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Promoting_diamond_business%29
content:
<p>
It's valid to criticize Beyoncé for promoting the diamond business,
but we should direct that activism more broadly &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/01/what-is-ultimately-at-stake-in-the-tiffany-diamond-row-it-isnt-beyonces-ethics">at that business</a>.

<p>
The article is correct that being manipulated by the diamond business
is not morally equivalent to promoting it commercially.  But why be
had?

<p>
Aside from specialized industrial or research activities, nobody needs
a diamond.  To mark engagement with diamonds is one of many cultural
practices set up by commercial PR so as to make people feel compelled
to purchase something they can't really afford, and could perfectly
well do without.

<p>
Often the people who would be most harmed by diverting money to this
folly are the ones who feel least able to resist it.  Yet surrender
means that they start their life together on the wrong foot.

<p>
I suggest putting the money that they would have spent on diamonds
into a reserve bank account for the new couple.  This will help them
cope with the challenges of life together.  They could extend it into
a history of resisting business pressure to fritter away money on
other things PR teaches people to want, including a fancy, expensive
wedding.  More savings will reduce the harm done by many kinds of
crises, and reduce stress.

<p>
Our economy is stacked against the poor, and against disprivileged
groups.  Saving more by avoiding luxuries of only symbolic value may
not be enough to overcome that.  But it will certainly do some good.


feed_id: 3753618fb46474adde92bc24db067950
title: Ban on leaded petrol
uri: Ban-on-leaded-petrol
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Ban_on_leaded_petrol%29
content:
<p>
*Make historic campaign to ban leaded petrol "<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/sep/01/make-historic-campaign-to-ban-leaded-petrol-blueprint-to-phase-out-coal-says-un">blueprint to phase out coal</a>,"
says UN.*


feed_id: f890020bb36f69a09b8a922211af3b36
title: Tree species threatened
uri: Tree-species-threatened
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#2_September_2021_%28Tree_species_threatened%29
content:
<p>
World-wide, 1/3 of the known tree species <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-global-environment-trees/some-30-of-global-tree-species-at-risk-of-extinction-report-idUSKBN2FX295">are now threatened</a>.

<p>
I would guess that 1/3 of the tree species yet to be identified
are also threatened.


feed_id: 299f88e7cd48c9a687a93b3099216bea
title: Desertification
uri: 2021-09-03-Desertification
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#3_September_2021_%28Desertification%29
content:
<p>
*Desertification is turning the Earth barren &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/02/desertification-barren-solution-famine-agriculture">but a solution is still within
reach</a>.*

<p>
Desertification is another form of the same process of drying up that
is causing the fires in California and so many other regions of the
world.


feed_id: 93b5a65ab975c8ff5a026aa71a1536e0
title: Allowing to attend party conference
uri: Allowing-to-attend-party-conference
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#3_September_2021_%28Allowing_to_attend_party_conference%29

content:
<p>
The centrist leadership of Labour has not decided <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/sep/02/jeremy-corbyn-banned-labour-party-conference-keir-starmer">whether to allow Corbyn
to attend the party conference this year</a>.

<p>
If they do not, I hope he arranges speeches of his own in non-party venues.


feed_id: 22f651bf083b2d563e683127bae9c965
title: Water crisis
uri: Water-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#3_September_2021_%28Water_crisis%29
content:
<p>
*Jordan's water crisis deepens <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-jordan-environment-water/jordans-water-crisis-deepens-as-climate-changes-population-grows-idUSKBN2FY1CK">as climate [heats up], population grows</a>.*


feed_id: c80b286ffd14281aa5f5fde38001f8fe
title: Who arranged assassination
uri: Who-arranged-assassination
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#3_September_2021_%28Who_arranged_assassination%29
content:
<p>
President Moise's widow asks foreign powers <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-haiti-president-first-lady/haiti-former-first-lady-calls-for-help-in-unraveling-husbands-murder-idUSKBN2FW15I">to help figure out who arranged
his assassination</a>.


feed_id: 5583f1c8ffb5f1763a139f8e880fe4ea
title: Abusing guards prosecution
uri: Abusing-guards-prosecution
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#3_September_2021_%28Abusing_guards_prosecution%29
content:
<p>
*   Iranian prosecutors have opened criminal cases against six guards at
   Tehran’s Evin prison <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/aug/31/iran-investigates-evin-prison-guards-after-abuse-video-leak">after footage showing widespread abuse of
   [prisoners] at the facility leaked out last week</a>.*

<p>
The US isn't usually so quick to investigate the crimes of prison
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>.


feed_id: 4579c7fa2d2d2caaafa5f11aef802ae9
title: Urgent: Climate Defense Group
uri: Urgent-Climate-Defense-Group
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Climate_Defense_Group%29

content:
<p>

Canadians, get advice from a local climate defense group on who to vote for.
<p>
If the group clearly says, "Canada should stop exporting fossil fuel,"
then it has enough courage to tackle the issue squarely, so it will
try to give you good advice on who is best to vote for in your area.


feed_id: 8d74d4ac5ce3cf396f184fc4056981ce
title: Boardmasters festival
uri: Boardmasters-festival
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Boardmasters_festival%29
content:
<p>

50,000 attended the Boardmasters festival in the UK, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/aug/23/almost-5000-covid-cases-linked-to-cornish-music-and-surf-festival-boardmasters">5,000 caught
Covid-19</a>.
<p>
The festival required proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test, but no
other precautions against transmission.  The photo shows that people
were packed close together.
<p>
This shows that vaccination verification _alone_ does not ensure
people's safety.  Other precautions are still needed.  Vaccination
verification can make it possible to hold events and open venues which
otherwise would have to be kept shut, but they do need masks and
physical distancing,
<p>
Also, since people under 12 cannot be vaccinated, perhaps this must
be limited to places and events where few children will go.  Those
that attract children may still have to be shut.


feed_id: f131a8ab731028621b53a5648455f8aa
title: Apple store restrictions
uri: Apple-store-restrictions
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Apple_store_restrictions%29
content:
<p>

Apple has made a concession to pressure against its anticompetitive
practices by allowing other companies to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/sep/02/apple-concedes-on-anticompetitive-restrictions-in-app-store">restrict users of their apps
through their web sites</a>, rather than through the Apple Store.
<p>
The anticompetitive behavior that most restricts users
is that they can't use alternate app stores with free software.
In other words, that there can't be an F-Apple like <a href="https://f-droid.org">F-Droid</a>.


feed_id: 6fd1c8a2fbe43ae7379da54d75ec6cab
title: Big Oil's philanthropy
uri: Big-Oil-s-philanthropy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Big_Oil%27s_philanthropy%29
content:
<p>

*Hurricane Ida <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/09/02/hurricane-ida-fossil-fuel-greenwashing/">Makes a Mockery</a> of Big Oil’s Philanthropy.*


feed_id: 5eaf32bf51b127ae9cc85659127f4dc8
title: Cause of Hurricane Ida
uri: Cause-of-Hurricane-Ida
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Cause_of_Hurricane_Ida%29
content:
<p>

As the US mainstream media cover Hurricane Ida, they <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/02/us-media-hurricane-ida-climate-change">mostly ignore its
cause: global heating</a>.
<p>
Of the few stories cited as not ignoring this, a couple did use terms
such as "climate crisis" and "climate change-driven disaster" that put
this "change" in its deadly context.  Let's call on the media to do
that, rather than "say 'climate change'."


feed_id: 8275c37fa0ccbcf7e9d0010cc832bcc3
title: Blinded by thugs
uri: Blinded-by-thugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Blinded_by_thugs%29
content:
<p>

Americans blinded by thugs at Black Lives Matter protests are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/02/police-shootings-less-lethal-eye-vision">meeting
up and organizing</a>.
<p>
It is no accident when a <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> blinds someone with a rubber-coated metal
bullet.  If <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> followed their official rules, they would not hit
anyone in the eye.

Thugs shoot to maim anti-racist protesters because the <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2016-jul-oct.html#21_July_2016_(Racist_thugs_corrupt_thug_departments)">thugs
are racist</a>, or right-wing, or both.
<p>
The article linked to in the first paragraph displays symbolic bigotry by
capitalizing "black" but not "white".  (To avoid endorsing bigotry,
capitalize both words or neither one.)  I object to bigotry, and
normally I decline to link to articles which promote it.  But I make
exceptions for some articles which give important information about
racism or the fight to eliminate racism.  That article is one of the
exceptions.


feed_id: acaf6d50e3fc6569dd54070c073e8c7a
title: Internet in Kashmir
uri: Internet-in-Kashmir
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Internet_in_Kashmir%29
content:
<p>

India preemptively cut <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-kashmir/india-locks-down-restive-kashmir-after-burial-of-separatist-leader-idUSKBN2FY0J2">off the internet in Kashmir to prevent protests</a>
expected after the death (from medical problems) of a separatist leader.


feed_id: 5ef228209c9f8db533b8e0e1b3a434a2
title: Assault on Extinction Rebellion protesters
uri: Assault-on-Extinction-Rebellion-protesters
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Assault_on_Extinction_Rebellion_protesters%29

content:
<p>

London thugs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/31/police-wield-batons-during-xrs-london-bridge-bus-blockade">punched and bashed Extinction Rebellion protesters</a> who
had locked themselves to a bus.
It sounds like the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> broke some windows too.
<p>
The protest was nonviolent but mildly disruptive.  I say "mildly" in
comparison with the category 6 hurricanes, tornadoes, fire clouds and
sea inundations that <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> will cause in England if
Extinction Rebellion does not achieve its goal.


feed_id: da09858203225f4c6c2b70a0f62846b6
title: Increased farming
uri: Increased-farming
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Increased_farming%29
content:
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/01/up-to-half-worlds-wild-tree-species-could-risk-extinction">Increased farming</a>, which often implies deforestation, is the main cause
of the possible coming extinction of half the species of trees.
<p>
One easy way to help avoid this is to help the human population
decline, but having <a href="children.html">fewer or no children</a>.


feed_id: 79f2564dcb0aa2225121a94f9a7d8fea
title: Black surgeons
uri: Black-surgeons
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Black_surgeons%29
content:
<p>

*Black surgeons <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/sep/01/black-surgeons-promoted-far-less-than-white-colleagues-in-england">‘promoted far less than white colleagues in England’</a>.*
<p>
Systemic racism affects people in many different areas of life.  A
Massachusetts study found that, on average, blacks convicted of crimes
got longer sentences than whites convicted of comparable crimes in
comparable circumstances.


feed_id: cbb0e417e0cb6a27758efe08f2913be7
title: Abortions in Texas
uri: Abortions-in-Texas
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Abortions_in_Texas%29
content:
<p>

The right-wing extremists on the US Supreme Court chose to do nothing
as Texas prohibits abortion using a crushing new method that would put
anyone who helps someone get an abortion in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/01/texas-abortion-law-supreme-court">danger of bankruptcy</a>.
<p>
The horror of this method is that you can't have a trial that would
decide, once and for all, whether you committed a crime.  You can't
even call for a trial in advance to determine the answer.  Instead you
face an endless series of lawsuits from people that were not involved,
which don't give you the safeguards of a criminal trial.
<p>
The use of this method amounts to nullification of the constitutional
rights of the accused &mdash; for anything whatsoever.  The method itself
is tyranny, and it is supposed to be unconstitutional, but the US
Supreme Court of today doesn't care.
<p>
I was not surprised they decided to allow prohibition of abortions,
but I was shocked that they allowed this.


feed_id: 2d857d2ae692c7df4d86c69df1b96fe5
title: Without Roe v Wade
uri: Without-Roe-v-Wade
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Without_Roe_v_Wade%29
content:
<p>

*It’s time to brace ourselves for a world without Roe v Wade. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/01/roe-v-wade-abortion-ruling-what-to-do-world-without">Here’s what we
must do</a>.*


feed_id: 6b0b6dbcba5b662956cc93fa096d8dc7
title: Women in Afghan government
uri: Women-in-Afghan-government
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Women_in_Afghan_government%29
content:
<p>

*Women can <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/01/women-can-continue-working-in-afghan-government-say-taliban">continue working in Afghan government</a>, say Taliban.*
<p>
If they put this into practice, it will confirm an advance that
was only partially implemented by the previous government.
However, the fighters they recruited may take out their fanaticism
to stop this.


feed_id: 80da19d0f881e18976862815257f4df9
title: Algerian dissident
uri: Algerian-dissident
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Algerian_dissident%29
content:
<p>

It looks like Tunisia's president sent an exiled Algerian dissident
<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-tunisia-algeria/algerian-dissident-case-raises-fears-over-tunisian-rights-idUSKBN2FX3TG">back to Algeria for prosecution, without even a hearing</a>.


feed_id: b1f8dd4026d79012808062b1123f2edb
title: Killing of Elijah McClain
uri: Killing-of-Elijah-McClain
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Killing_of_Elijah_McClain%29
content:
<p>

Colorado has charged three thugs and two paramedics of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/01/elijah-mcclain-colorado-grand-jury-indicts-five-over-black-mans-death">killing Elijah
McClain</a>. They stopped him, injected him with ketamine, and put him in a choke
hold.  He never did anything that was grounds to bother him, but someone
in the neighborhood called and said he was "suspicious".


feed_id: 3ff75d94429992eb1d36cce682d1bab8
title: "Safe streets" unit
uri: Safe-streets-unit
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Safe_streets_unit%29
content:
<p>

*<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/01/beverly-hills-police-taskforce-lawsuit-racial-profiling">Ninety-nine percent of people arrested</a> by Beverly Hills "safe streets" unit
were black, suit says.* You might as well call it the "white streets" unit.


feed_id: 15bcf965e25a088b7fa0648eff12bdf2
title: (satire) Last-second nation-building
uri: (satire)-Last-second-nation-building
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28%28satire%29_Last-second_nation-building%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *Final U.S. Soldiers In Afghanistan Do Some <a href="https://www.theonion.com/final-u-s-soldiers-in-afghanistan-do-some-last-second-1847591296">Last-Second
Nation-Building</a> On Way To Plane.*
<p>
If Republicans set up a repressive state based on minority voting,
would they ask the Taliban for advice?  Or would they ask China?


feed_id: 9676de17f73943feb0a8ceac6243da37
title: Pandemic intelligence hub
uri: Pandemic-intelligence-hub
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Pandemic_intelligence_hub%29
content:
<p>

*WHO opens <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/01/who-opens-pandemic-intelligence-hub-to-look-out-for-future-crises">pandemic intelligence hub</a> to look out for future crises.*


feed_id: fd219f1e36c70aa3c77cc71615a34c2a
title: Shell electric vehicle stations
uri: Shell-electric-vehicle-stations
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Shell_electric_vehicle_stations%29

content:
<p>

Shell plans to have 500,000 <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/sep/01/shell-on-street-ev-charge-points-2025">electric vehicle charging stations</a> in the UK.
How many of these permit paying cash?


feed_id: caf3f5a0b28d8301cd75fea5bdebf567
title: Hurricane Ida
uri: Hurricane-Ida
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Hurricane_Ida%29
content:
<p>

Hurricane Ida rained so fast on New York City that it <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/02/new-york-flooding-state-of-emergency-ny-city-flash-flood-nyc-hurricane-ida-remnants">caused floods
in the streets and the subways</a>.
The storm drains were not designed to cope with such a flow of
water.
<p>
It will get a lot worse in the next few decades.  It is no use trying
to keep up with this &mdash; we have to <em>slow it down</em> by curbing global
heating.


feed_id: 02bf58f1efc85815ba131a7c5727126d
title: Soviet-style society of persecution
uri: Soviet-style-society-of-persecution
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Soviet-style_society_of_persecution%29

content:
<p>

Laurence Tribe explains the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/02/roe-v-wade-texas-abortion-law-us-constitution">Soviet-style society of persecution</a> that
the Texas abortion ban law has created.


feed_id: 1430a7472fae1534207453c5dd7e95b3
title: Robert E Lee statue in Virginia
uri: Robert-E-Lee-statue-in-Virginia
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Robert_E_Lee_statue_in_Virginia%29

content:
<p>

Virginia will finally be able to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/02/statue-confederate-general-robert-e-lee-virginia-removed-court-rules">remove a statue of Robert E Lee</a> in
the state capital.


feed_id: ba31d4790367cd502e03ac2f866d9a3d
title: Tories against nitrous oxide
uri: Tories-against-nitrous-oxide
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Tories_against_nitrous_oxide%29
content:
<p>

Tories want to ruin people's lives for using the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/sep/03/priti-patel-orders-review-into-effects-of-nitrous-oxide">basically harmless drug,
nitrous oxide</a>.
<p>
I can only suppose they want to get their supporters high on
persecuting those despised young people.


feed_id: 5ab016d10f2945d2b64d3a363b57a72f
title: New Orleans blackout
uri: New-Orleans-blackout
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28New_Orleans_blackout%29
content:
<p>

Greg Palast says that the <a href="https://www.gregpalast.com/louisiana-black-out-not-an-act-of-god-an-act-of-entergy/">lasting blackout of much of New Orleans</a> was
the result of malingering by the power company, Entergy. He says that
the company profits from the losses caused by hurricanes, so it has
stubbornly refused to take the necessary precautions to reduce damage.


feed_id: 6ef71a45920ce557a11e1cd2ac9cdb21
title: Texas schools
uri: Texas-schools
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Texas_schools%29
content:
<p>

*Texas schools are <a href="https://www.dallasnews.com/news/investigations/2021/09/02/texas-schools-are-watching-millions-of-students-online-often-without-their-knowledge-or-consent/">surveilling students online</a>, often without their
knowledge.*  School-provided computers read students' email.
<p>
The article adds "or consent" to the first sentence, but I don't think
that consent can excuse a <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">system of massive surveillance</a>.
<p>
What if a school finds that a student plans to travel out of state for
an abortion.  Will that make the school vulnerable to lawsuits by the
dozen?  Will the school protect itself by reporting her and sticking her
with a baby that will keep her poor for life?


feed_id: bc00b2d651b205a6f8f783bcf92caedc
title: Children spreading Covid-19
uri: Children-spreading-Covid-19
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Children_spreading_Covid-19%29
content:
<p>

Children often catch Covid-19 nowadays, and since vaccines are not
ready for them, when they go to school they tend to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/01/us/us-covid-kids-data/index.html">spread it to each
other</a>.
<p>
It was recently announced that 1/7 of the children who catch
Covid-19 have <a href="https://www.stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#1_September_2021_(Adolescents_long_Covid)">disability months later</a>.


feed_id: 0be2edd0b339c79d52e41994af86effe
title: Right-wing fanatics that love the Taliban
uri: Right-wing-fanatics-that-love-the-Taliban
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Right-wing_fanatics_that_love_the_Taliban%29

content:
<p>

Some US right-wing fanatics hate the US government so unthinkingly
that they <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/09/01/politics/far-right-groups-praise-taliban-takeover/index.html">love the Taliban</a> simply for defeating the US.
<p>
I don't suppose the right-wing fanatics are put off by the Taliban's
intention to force their religion on others, or their repression of
women.


feed_id: e134cfb0aca98212ec2047f9fab1ed3a
title: Georgia prosecutor
uri: Georgia-prosecutor
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Georgia_prosecutor%29
content:
<p>

The former Georgia prosecutor who shielded the killers of Ahmaud
Arbery from arrest now <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/02/ahmaud-arbery-ex-prosecutor-indicted-georgia">faces charges of acting from personal prejudice</a>.
One of the killers had worked for her.


feed_id: 3c9cfb7560d91f4935e10d0ec0e120cf
title: Philadelphia-area cops
uri: Philadelphia-area-cops
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Philadelphia-area_cops%29
content:
<p>

Philadelphia-area cops seem to have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/02/girl-shooting-football-game-police-sharon-hill">killed an eight-year-old</a> by
firing into a crowd.
They wounded three others.
<p>
Persons in or near that crowd were shooting, sometimes perhaps at the
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>.  But if the cops could not identify the shooters and aim
carefully at them, they were far more likely to hit bystanders than
their targets.  What they did may not have been evil, but it was
spectacularly incompetent.
<p>
Fictional cops know not to shoot at someone in the middle of
bystanders.  Why didn't these real cops know it?


feed_id: 07b66ea79ace7fdedc6c240414517364
title: Violating bail conditions
uri: Violating-bail-conditions
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Violating_bail_conditions%29
content:
<p>

Extinction Rebellion activists protested against British
banks by nonviolently carrying signs near the Bank of England.
A few dozen carried signs saying they were <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/02/extinction-rebellion-protesters-break-bail-terms-for-city-protest">violating bail conditions</a> 
imposed on them after they were arrested for other nonviolent protests.
<p>
A common technique for crushing protest movements to arrest protesters
(maybe without there being any crime) and put them under pressure to
agree to "I won't protest again" bail conditions.
<p>
A protester pointed out that <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> effects are obstructing
roads around the world, and will do so with increasing frequency.
Shouldn't the British government arrest <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> first?


feed_id: 6e31c8afa373fca21bd7e5a90c496a19
title: A kind of addiction
uri: A-kind-of-addiction
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28A_kind_of_addiction%29
content:
<p>

Douglas Rushkoff analyzes QAnonsense as a <a href="https://archives.simplelists.com/rushkoff/msg/17481768/">kind of addiction</a>.


feed_id: 0c02da111793a3d4766ece6fd252c922
title: Cancellation as mob rule
uri: Cancellation-as-mob-rule
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Cancellation_as_mob_rule%29
content:
<p>

Cancellation as mob rule: the article <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/10/new-puritans-mob-justice-canceled/619818/">compares it with
the Puritans of old New England</a>.
<p>
To me, it resembles the Red Guards that I read about in <i>Life and Death
in Shanghai</i> (Nien Cheng).
<p>
Although people <a href="stallmansupport.org">attempted to cancel me</a> two years ago,
what has happened to me is not as bad as what happened to those described in
the article.  I was fortunate.


feed_id: e4d51529701863dd8511f38b9c9bd270
title: Surrender of Boko Haram fighters
uri: Surrender-of-Boko-Haram-fighters
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Surrender_of_Boko_Haram_fighters%29

content:
<p>

*Almost 6,000 Boko Haram fighters <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-nigeria-security-bokoharam/almost-6000-boko-haram-fighters-have-surrendered-nigerian-army-says-idUSKBN2FY1KA">have surrendered</a>, Nigerian army says.*


feed_id: 81020953653b0575f8caf5c43caee76f
title: Fear of Taliban repression
uri: Fear-of-Taliban-repression
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Fear_of_Taliban_repression%29
content:
<p>

Afghans who worked for peace campaigns, or to aid refugees, and did
not support either the US-backed government or the Taliban, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/08/31/afghan-activist-we-all-deserve-refuge-not-just-those-who-served-us">fear
Taliban repression now</a>.


feed_id: b2cfacc058178a89e554a3df4f0b5307
title: Undercounting Covid-19 deaths
uri: Undercounting-Covid-19-deaths
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Undercounting_Covid-19_deaths%29

content:
<p>

Deadly DeSantis is once again trying to conceal facts about Covid-19
in Florida.  Now he has altered the way records are kept so as to
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/31/desantis-accused-statistical-sleight-hand-conceal-surge-covid-deaths">undercount deaths</a>.


feed_id: 376f5d91b905e7c18077be2e11d5d58a
title: North Atlantic right whales
uri: 2021-09-05-North-Atlantic-right-whales
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28North_Atlantic_right_whales%29
content:
<p>

*North Atlantic right whales <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/03/north-atlantic-right-whales-critically-endangered-climate-crisis-study">critically endangered by climate crisis</a>, new
study finds.*
<p>
NOAA has made a rule to protect North Atlantic right whales, but <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/08/31/experts-warn-noaa-plan-might-delay-right-whales-extinction-not-save-them">it's
insufficient</a> and the population will probably continue to decrease.


feed_id: f7236c0a4c2144898e436b32ee6126fa
title: (satire) Texas abortion law
uri: (satire)-Texas-abortion-law
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28%28satire%29_Texas_abortion_law%29

content:
<p>

(satire) *New Texas Abortion Law <a href="https://www.theonion.com/new-texas-abortion-law-offers-10-000-to-private-citize-1847599390">Offers $10,000 To Private Citizens</a>
For Names Of Anyone They Heard Was A Slut.*


feed_id: 596603f0849af2ea00bb17e9f1fbaf2f
title: A Bill for abortion rights
uri: A-Bill-for-abortion-rights
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28A_Bill_for_abortion_rights%29
content:
<p>

Democrats in Congress have introduced a bill to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/09/01/national-laws-needed-say-defenders-women-after-scotus-attack-roe">establish abortion rights</a>
in case Republicans on the Supreme Court abolish Roe v Wade.
<p>
To pass this will require the Senate to abolish the filibuster.
I don't see a way to put more pressure on Manchin and Sinema.
I hope people find a way.


feed_id: ef92728d203646cc2ea103d7eba15398
title: Gas is not clean
uri: Gas-is-not-clean
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Gas_is_not_clean%29
content:
<p>

*Climate Groups Target Congress With <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/09/01/climate-groups-launch-campaign-exclude-natural-gas-key-federal-energy-policy">'Gas Is Not Clean' Campaign</a>.*


feed_id: e38b4f5df6199c4bafdb55507ac4f252
title: Consequences of War on Terror
uri: Consequences-of-War-on-Terror
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Consequences_of_War_on_Terror%29

content:
<p>

*The <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/09/01/intercepted-reign-of-terror-spencer-ackerman/">Long-Lasting Consequences</a> of the War on Terror.*
<p>
The US government may not use that term any more, but the surveillance
and assassination systems remain in operation.
<p>
The lead producer says that the last drone strike in Kabul targeted a
car filled with explosives and destroyed it, and the explosion also
killed ten members of an Afghan family who were near it at that
moment.
<p>
If that is correct &mdash; I don't have any other source of information
about this point &mdash; then I won't criticize the US Army for firing a
missile at those armed terrorists.  Indeed, if they had not been
stopped, they might have killed a hundred Afghan civilians instead of
ten.  The fact that bystanders were near them at that moment was
something random and uncontrollable.
<p>
Rather than a war crime, it is an example of what war implies.
Fighting a war sometimes kills civilians.  Sometimes because a soldier
vents hatred, sometimes by an accident that everyone regrets.
<p>
We should keep this in mind when we consider whether to start a war,
and whether to end one.
<p>
*Let's Open the Books: We Need a <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/09/02/lets-open-books-we-need-truth-commission-afghan-war">Truth Commission for the Afghan War</a>.*


feed_id: 3bf731aa53346181631bb36ed9903d2c
title: Allocation of pollution
uri: Allocation-of-pollution
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Allocation_of_pollution%29
content:
<p>

The legacy of past segregation in housing often manifests itself
in <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/09/02/your-zip-code-should-not-impede-your-right-clean-air-and-water">racist allocation of pollution</a>.
<p>
The plan for an oil pipeline running through black neighborhoods
illustrates systemic racism.  However, it is an atypical example
because an additional oil pipeline is bad no matter what path it
takes.  If we allow fossil fuel extraction to continue unchecked,
no one will be safe.
<p>
The article linked to just above displays symbolic bigotry by
capitalizing "black" but not "white".  (To avoid endorsing bigotry,
capitalize both words or neither one.)  I object to bigotry, and
normally I decline to link to articles which promote it.  But I make
exceptions for some articles which give important information about
racism or the fight to eliminate racism.  That article is one of the
exceptions.


feed_id: 3bc4a13716d2ae8d3b56289b25855cd3
title: Cost of Post-9/11
uri: Cost-of-Post-9-11
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Cost_of_Post-9%252F11%29
content:
<p>

*Estimated Cost of Post-9/11 US Wars Hits <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/09/01/estimated-cost-post-911-us-wars-hits-8-trillion-nearly-million-people-dead">$8 Trillion With Nearly a Million
People Dead</a>.*
<p>
I am pretty sure that the total of one million is based on an
underestimate of the number of Iraqis killed &mdash; for instance, the
the figure from Iraq Body Count, which counted only the deaths
which could be <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2019-sep-dec.html#15_November_2019_(Deaths_caused_by_US_wars_since_2000)">individually verified</a>.


feed_id: 26c7bcf41e6c74547e4b7b1b7311de49
title: Republicans war waging
uri: Republicans-war-waging
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Republicans_war_waging%29
content:
<p>

*Republicans seethe with violence and lies. Texas is part of a bigger <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/03/republicans-texas-abortion-right-democracy">war
they’re waging</a>.*
<p>
The ultimate goal is to put an end to freedom of thought, freedom of
speech, freedom of religion, and democracy.  Calling them the American
Taliban is a good comparison.


feed_id: c07a7b778202537b3a2354afdc4f08d4
title: PISSI terrorist in New Zealand
uri: PISSI-terrorist-in-New-Zealand
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28PISSI_terrorist_in_New_Zealand%29

content:
<p>

A <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#pissi">PISSI</a> terrorist stabbed people in a store in New Zealand. Muslims
and non-Muslims there <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/04/new-zealand-stabbings-nation-rallies-behind-muslim-community">joined to condemn the attack</a>.
<p>
In response, some stores are <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-newzealand-attack/new-zealand-supermarkets-take-knives-off-shelves-after-extremist-stabbing-idUSKBN2G0014">ceasing to sell knives and scissors</a>. What lunacy?  Where are people supposed to buy them?  It is absurd
to crack down on every household item that could be used as a weapon.


feed_id: de04db84cb7077eb2d9e649f97f3448c
title: Afghan military pilots
uri: Afghan-military-pilots
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Afghan_military_pilots%29
content:
<p>

Afghan military pilots that fled to Uzbekistan are now treated as
prisoners and fear Uzbekistan will <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-usa-pilots-exclu/exclusive-theyll-kill-us-afghan-pilots-held-at-uzbek-camp-fear-deadly-homecoming-idUSKBN2FZ1RB">hand them over to the Taliban</a>,
perhaps to be killed.
<p>
The US should bring them to safety.


feed_id: ee90830961bc1a8b6aa41310f7706a8f
title: Women's rights
uri: Women-s-rights
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Women%27s_rights%29
content:
<p>

In theory, the Taliban respect women's rights, but women say that the
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/03/afghanistan-women-defiant-amid-taliban-crackdown">practical limits preclude exercising any rights</a>.
<p>
The Taliban want two things that can't be reconciled.  How they
respond to this will determine what sort of relations they can
have with the rest of the world.


feed_id: c733165c4c010a2b3c3c2c0ac2d21c18
title: Covid-19 vaccine in Italy
uri: Covid-19-vaccine-in-Italy
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Covid-19_vaccine_in_Italy%29
content:
<p>

Italy is considering <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/03/italy-could-soon-make-covid-19-vaccines-mandatory-says-pm">requiring everyone to be vaccinated</a> against
Covid-19.
<p>
I hope there will be an exception for those who have a specific
medical reason why they should not be vaccinated.  The article did not
mention this, but I expect that there will be an exception for them.
<p>
That aside, it is everyone's duty to get vaccinated so as to help
eradicate the disease.


feed_id: 38d10a6145b8b871baf7e881392eaf56
title: Extra costs of the NHS
uri: Extra-costs-of-the-NHS
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Extra_costs_of_the_NHS%29
content:
<p>

Tories want to make the non-rich <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/03/tory-raise-national-insurance-regressive-labour-social-care">pay the extra costs</a> of the NHS.


feed_id: 8e95edd12e57ab1955fa01bfc1266535
title: Boardmasters festival
uri: 2021-09-05-Boardmasters-festival
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Boardmasters_festival%29
content:
<p>

50,000 attended the Boardmasters festival in the UK, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/aug/23/almost-5000-covid-cases-linked-to-cornish-music-and-surf-festival-boardmasters">5,000 caught
Covid-19</a>.
<p>
The festival required proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test, but no
other precautions against transmission.  The photo shows that people
were packed close together.
<p>
This shows that vaccination verification <em>alone</em> does not ensure
people's safety.  Other precautions are still needed.  Vaccination
verification can make it possible to hold events and open venues which
otherwise would have to be kept shut, but they do need masks and
physical distancing,
<p>
Also, since people under 12 cannot be vaccinated, perhaps this must
be limited to places and events where few children will go.  Those
that attract children may still have to be shut.


feed_id: 32edf47881cd467640aaead4d8aadd28
title: Assault on Extinction Rebellion protesters
uri: 2021-09-05-Assault-on-Extinction-Rebellion-protesters
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#4_September_2021_%28Assault_on_Extinction_Rebellion_protesters%29

content:
<p>

London thugs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/aug/31/police-wield-batons-during-xrs-london-bridge-bus-blockade">punched and bashed Extinction Rebellion protesters</a> who
had locked themselves to a bus.
It sounds like the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> broke some windows too.
<p>
The protest was nonviolent but mildly disruptive.  I say "mildly" in
comparison with the category 6 hurricanes, tornadoes, fire clouds and
sea inundations that <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> will cause in England if
Extinction Rebellion does not achieve its goal.
<p>
Later information showed that it was the <a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> that broke windows
in the bus.  The protesters remained steadfastly nonviolent.


feed_id: 013b0dd8b0ccd42cc02e49354d606387
title: Likely to die
uri: Likely-to-die
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Likely_to_die%29
content:
<p>
People from disprivileged groups were particularly likely to die in
and near New York City from Hurricane Ida's flooding, because the
shortage of housing <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/09/02/climate-crisis-inequality-crisis-says-ocasio-cortez-after-deadly-storm-hits">had pushed them into living in basements that were
not safe</a>.


feed_id: 7cb0ea6a8918d035a81238072b1b4d76
title: Climate crisis deniers
uri: Climate-crisis-deniers
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Climate_crisis_deniers%29
content:
<p>
*[Climate crisis] deniers are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/04/climate-change-deniers-are-as-slippery-as-those-who-justified-the-slave-trade">as slippery as those who justified the
slave trade</a>.*
  When one fallacious argument ceases to be believed, they fall back
to the next line of delusion.


feed_id: 8fcdbf644ffa98fbc3c71995c5ece85e
title: Missing climate goal
uri: Missing-climate-goal
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Missing_climate_goal%29
content:
<p>
*Europe to miss 2030 climate goal <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-climate-change-europe-study/europe-to-miss-2030-climate-goal-by-21-years-at-current-pace-study-idUSKBN2G009O">by 21 years at current pace</a> &mdash; study.*


feed_id: c45c56632526b4e4a4fad338c1650690
title: 38,000 species in danger of extinction
uri: 38-000-species-in-danger-of-extinction
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%2838%2C000_species_in_danger_of_extinction%29

content:
<p>
*Komodo dragon <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/04/komodo-dragon-climate-crisis-sea-levels-rise-extinction-aoe">in danger of extinction as sea levels rise</a>.*
  Along with 38,000 other species.


feed_id: 2289db78f10015c1b8125d6c4b173adf
title: Committee for Public Safety
uri: Committee-for-Public-Safety
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Committee_for_Public_Safety%29
content:
<p>
The Department of Homeland Security, or shall we say Committee for
Public Safety, <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/09/04/cbp-border-tactical-terrorism-response-teams/">has interrogated 180,000 US citizens trying to enter
the US in a two-year period, 2017 to 2019</a>.

<p>
14 were stopped from entering the US, effectively exiling them, and
without a trial too &mdash; though exile is unconstitutional even as a
sentence, since a US citizen <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2011-jan-apr.html#17 January 2011 (US Refusing Mohamed)">has an unconditional right to enter the
US</a>.

<p>
During the French Revolution, the Committee for Public Safety was
responsible for terror.  <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Committee_of_Public_Safety">For inflicting the terror, that is</a>.


feed_id: 386f99c395aa35927bb750dcfbc810b0
title: Left spewing chemicals
uri: Left-spewing-chemicals
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Left_spewing_chemicals%29
content:
<p>
*Louisiana Shell refinery <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/sep/04/louisiana-shell-refinery-toxic-chemicals-hurricane-ida">left spewing chemicals after Hurricane Ida</a>.*


feed_id: 4cb420fb23f6948d45e374d1832221f9
title: Don't bother
uri: Don-t-bother
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Don%27t_bother%29
content:
<p>
Hadley Freeman: When a friend asks, *what will happen to her
   when she’s old? Will she be all alone? So should she have a baby now? I
   look her right in the eyes and I tell her what I always tell women in
   these circumstances: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/04/what-i-tell-friends-torn-about-having-children">don’t bother</a>.*


feed_id: 6e794d77c61e8ae6fbab3148155dc128
title: Surveillance state
uri: 2021-09-06-Surveillance-state
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Surveillance_state%29
content:
<p>
*‘Panic made us vulnerable’: how 9/11 made the US surveillance state &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/sep/04/surveillance-state-september-11-panic-made-us-vulnerable">and the
Americans who fought back</a>.*


feed_id: 7b4f81b6501a47f39f9fda4cbb81bcf4
title: Urgent: Grand Canyon Protection Act
uri: Urgent-Grand-Canyon-Protection-Act
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Grand_Canyon_Protection_Act%29

content:
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/grand-canyon-protection-act?nowrapper=true&referrer=&source=">Support</a> the Grand Canyon Protection Act.


feed_id: b4f8a352bf60c4e45ebad1c65978fcec
title: Uyghurs in Afghanistan
uri: Uyghurs-in-Afghanistan
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Uyghurs_in_Afghanistan%29
content:
<p>
*As China woos the Taliban, <a href="http://rss.cnn.com/~r/rss/cnn_topstories/~3/a5b9J4ycS5I/index.html">Uyghurs in Afghanistan fear for their lives</a>.*


feed_id: ee302a6dce12dbd913745f21fc0b8fc6
title: Air conditioners
uri: Air-conditioners
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Air_conditioners%29
content:
<p>
Developing technology that could make air conditioners more efficient,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/03/air-conditioning-climate-crisis-clean-tech-solutions">or replace them with passive technology</a>.


feed_id: 6b1f7483b99e6111f642a959fc1f53a8
title: Big benefits from coal companies
uri: Big-benefits-from-coal-companies
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Big_benefits_from_coal_companies%29

content:
<p>
*[Senator Manchin] Reaps Big Financial Rewards From a Network of Coal
Companies <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/09/03/joe-manchin-coal-fossil-fuels-pollution/">With Grim Records of Pollution, Safety Violations, and Death</a>.*


feed_id: 1f19910eef4901c3fc89dff570f5357f
title: Female judges
uri: Female-judges
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Female_judges%29
content:
<p>
Afghanistan had 250 female judges <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-afghanistan-conflict-judges/hunted-by-the-men-they-jailed-afghanistans-women-judges-seek-escape-idUSKBN2FZ0YX">who now fear that men they sentenced
will murder them</a>.


feed_id: b7aba3ad1f9aa23808b13b2508dc0700
title: Thugs tactics
uri: Thugs-tactics
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28Thugs_tactics%29
content:
<p>
London thugs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/sep/03/extinction-rebellion-tactics-police-crack-down-on-protests">have developed new tactics to defeat
Extinction Rebellion protests</a>.
  Partly this operates by keeping most
of the activists away from those they are directly attacking.
Meanwhile, they have worked out a plan to avoid talking about the
protests, or the issue of defending our climate.

<p>
To ask whether Extinction Rebellion has "lost momentum" is foolish,
shallow journalistic habit.  This is a conflict, not a race.  The
protesters are valiantly trying to pressure politicians to try to save
civilization, while those politicians prefer to serve the short term
interests that profit by bringing chaos, disaster and violence.  The
<a href="https://stallman.org/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> use violence when convenient that end, while the protesters
carefully remain non-violent.
  


feed_id: e8b8eb95a0e1d21abbf6ad5d277c7b7a
title: State barriers to abortion
uri: State-barriers-to-abortion
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#6_September_2021_%28State_barriers_to_abortion%29
content:
<p>
State barriers to abortion exist in many parts of Europe.
Malta's ban <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/03/abortion-rights-texas-europe-uk">is even more absolute than that of Texas</a>.


feed_id: df4818d59a9fd788ca5746ceefe13895
title: Cancellation as mob rule
uri: 2021-09-07-Cancellation-as-mob-rule
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#5_September_2021_%28Cancellation_as_mob_rule%29
content:
<p>

Cancellation as mob rule: the article <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/10/new-puritans-mob-justice-canceled/619818/">compares it with
the Puritans of old New England</a>.
<p>
To me, it resembles the Red Guards that I read about in <i>Life and Death
in Shanghai</i> (Nien Cheng).
<p>
Although people <a href="https://stallmansupport.org/">attempted to cancel me</a> two years ago,
what has happened to me is not as bad as what happened to those described in
the article.  I was fortunate.


feed_id: eeead93f5ab25e3a2eec3c15a9bd78fd
title: Cancellation as mob rule
uri: 2021-09-07-Cancellation-as-mob-rule
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Cancellation_as_mob_rule%29
content:
<p>
Cancellation as mob rule: the article
<a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/10/new-puritans-mob-justice-canceled/619818/">compares
it with the Puritans of old New England</a>.
<p>
To me, it resembles the Red Guards that I read about in <i>Life and
Death in Shanghai</i> (Nien Cheng).
<p>
Although people
<a href="https://stallmansupport.org/">attempted to cancel me</a> two
years ago, what has happened to me is not as bad as what happened to
those described in the article.  I was fortunate.


feed_id: 59641121cf9acc522e806d632fd0f809
title: Urgent: Legalize abortion
uri: Urgent-Legalize-abortion
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Legalize_abortion%29
content:
<p>
US citizens: <a href="http://act.boldprogressives.org/survey/petition_2022_roe/">call on Congress</a> to legalize abortion in all states.


feed_id: f3f8599ca4d008f83fb75b2eb81d8276
title: Urgent: Polluters Pay Climate Fund Act
uri: Urgent-Polluters-Pay-Climate-Fund-Act
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Polluters_Pay_Climate_Fund_Act%29

content:
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-to-congress-support-the-polluters-pay-climate-fund-act?nowrapper=true">call on Congress</a> to pass the Polluters Pay Climate Fund Act.


feed_id: c31b73c1477f13736b9303714a9584f5
title: Urgent: Demilitarize the police
uri: Urgent-Demilitarize-the-police
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Urgent%3A_Demilitarize_the_police%29

content:
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-demand-congress-and-biden-demilitarize-the-police?nowrapper=true">call on Congress and Biden</a> to demilitarize the police.


feed_id: 86ad90b861ff414d905fd2af317ad490
title: Suing carmakers
uri: Suing-carmakers
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Suing_carmakers%29
content:
<p>
*German Groups Sue Major Carmakers <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/09/03/german-groups-sue-major-carmakers-fueling-climate-emergency">for Fueling the Climate Emergency</a>.*


feed_id: 8c804510869dd0d324a80ee65e4e119c
title: Hurricane names
uri: Hurricane-names
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Hurricane_names%29
content:
<p>
For fun, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/09/03/dont-call-storm-ida-it-should-have-been-called-hurricane-exxon">let's name hurricanes after oil companies</a>.

<p>
For justice, let's make them pay for the damages.


feed_id: 7f44fde5f82a626616fcefc5ea5cb205
title: Rising sea levels
uri: 2021-09-07-Rising-sea-levels
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Rising_sea_levels%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/u-s-responds-to-rising-sea-levels-by-patting-east-coas-1847614367">satire</a>) *U.S. Responds To Rising Sea Levels By Patting East Coast
With Towels.*


feed_id: 75da27753c0d721ce7bc5930a2914ff0
title: Still time
uri: Still-time
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Still_time%29
content:
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/optimistic-researchers-say-there-still-time-to-head-off-1847614847">satire</a>) *Optimistic Researchers Say There Still Time To Head Off
Climate Change Before It Starts Killing Rich People.*


feed_id: 808ca3a1c422fc3f29fad7bd51376d1a
title: Power outage
uri: Power-outage
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Power_outage%29
content:
<p>
Greg Palast: *Power outage in New Orleans: <a href="https://www.gregpalast.com/power-outage-new-orleans/">Is Ida or Entergy to blame</a>?*


feed_id: 94b2267c5d8886761f31b0c80ba90516
title: Hiring ex-cons
uri: Hiring-ex-cons
url: https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Hiring_ex-cons%29
content:
<p>
Some construction companies in New York City make special arrangements
to hire ex-cons <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/sep/03/former-prisoners-new-york-city-labor-brokers-construction-industry">and pay them a pittance to work in unsafe conditions</a>.


feed_id: e82afad2a226907c484dfbc803ae2d53
title: Prohibition of abortion pills
uri: Prohibition-of-abortion-pills
url:
https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jul-oct.html#7_September_2021_%28Prohibition_of_abortion_pills%29

content:
<p>
The next step in Texas Republicans' repression of women will be <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/09/03/heels-sb-8-texas-poised-restrict-access-medication-abortions">to
prohibit administering abortion pills or mailing them</a>.

<p>
It seems absurd to think that a state could prohibit mailing something
there via US mail from another state where it is lawful, but with
radical Taliban on the Supreme Court, there is no telling what they
might do.

<p>
Texas women should <a href="https://msmagazine.com/2021/08/31/how-to-get-abortion-pills-online-texas/">get abortion pills in advance in case they become
pregnant</a>.

<p>
American businesses are giving <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/03/business/companies-texas-sb8-abortion-law.html">no support to the women of Texas
against Republican repression</a>.


