# articles

feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(Amazon_and_propaganda)
title: Amazon and propaganda
uri: Amazon-and-propaganda
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(Amazon_and_propaganda)
content:
 
<p>
Amazon <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/china/amazon-partnered-with-china-propaganda-arm-win-beijings-favor-document-shows-2021-12-17/">collaborated actively with Chinese propaganda to get authorization
to sell in China</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(December_Tornadoes)
title: December Tornadoes
uri: December-Tornadoes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(December_Tornadoes)
content:
 
<p>
The <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/17/climate-catastrophes-are-everywhere-tornadoes-kentucky-floods-uganda">December tornadoes were unprecedented -- very different from usual
    tornadoes</a>.
Global heating is at work.

 


title: (Satire) When you fly first class
uri: (Satire)-When-you-fly-first-class
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_((Satire)_When_you_fly_first_class)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_((Satire)_When_you_fly_first_class)

content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Things No One Tells You Happen <a href="https://www.theonion.com/things-no-one-tells-you-happen-when-you-fly-first-class-1848223766">When You Fly First Class</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(Forever_chemicals)
title: Forever chemicals
uri: 2021-12-20-Forever-chemicals
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(Forever_chemicals)
content:
 
<p>
*PFAS "forever chemicals" <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/17/pfas-forever-chemicals-constantly-cycle-through-ground-air-and-water-study-finds">constantly cycle through ground, air and water,
study finds</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(New_pun)
title: New pun
uri: 2021-12-21-New-pun
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#20_December_2021_(New_pun)
content:
 
<p>
<a href="https://stallman.org/puns.html#reprobate">One will was put through probate twice</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Florida_power_company_rooftop)
title: Power and Light is lobbying Republican state legislators
uri: Power-and-Light-is-lobbying-Republican-state-legislators
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Florida_power_company_rooftop)
content:
 
<p>
Florida Power and Light is lobbying Republican state legislators 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/20/revealed-a-florida-power-company-wrote-its-own-bill-to-slow-rooftop-solar">to
reduce incentives for homeowners to install solar power systems.</a>
<p>
Its money helped put some of those legislators in power.
<p>
I don't know whether its lobbying broke any laws, but in a broader
sense it constitutes corruption.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Urgent:_epa_proposal_methane)
title: Urgent: EPA's proposal to regulate methane.
uri: Urgent-EPA-s-proposal-to-regulate-methane
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Urgent:_epa_proposal_methane)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: support the 
<a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/sign-the-petition-demand-the-epa-limit-methane-the-oil-gas-industry-super-pollutant?nowrapper=true&referrer=group-just-strategy&source=group-just-strategy">EPA's proposal to regulate methane.</a>




 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Natural_myth_immunity)
title: Dangerous myth natural immunity
uri: Dangerous-myth-natural-immunity
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Natural_myth_immunity)
content:
 
<p>
*As of December 16, there have been only nine confirmed deaths
directly related to, or caused by, Covid vaccines (specifically the
Johnson & Johnson vaccine), despite over 490 million vaccine doses
being administered in the US, while over 800,000 people have died
from Covid, out of over 50 million confirmed Covid cases in the US.
Yet many believe they are better off taking their 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/18/dangerous-myth-natural-immunity-superior-covid-vaccination">chances with getting
Covid instead of getting vaccinated, when in reality, Covid infection
is hundreds of thousands of times more dangerous than vaccination.</a>*
<p>
Get your immunity the safe, easy and reliable way -- through vaccine!


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(West_for_prez_funded)
title: West's campaign for president was funded
uri: West-s-campaign-for-president-was-funded
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(West_for_prez_funded)
content:
 
<p>
Kanye West's campaign for president was funded and 
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/12/18/kanye-wests-presidential-campaign-was-run-by-gop.html">run by the
Republican machine</a>
<p>
West and the Kardashians have something in common with the bullshitter:
the audacious pursuit of attention regardless of how.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Boric_radical_student)
title: Who will be Chile's next president.
uri: Who-will-be-Chile-s-next-president
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Boric_radical_student)
content:
 
<p>
*Who is Gabriel Boric? The radical student leader 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/20/who-is-gabriel-boric-the-radical-student-leader-who-will-be-chiles-next-president">who will be Chile's
next president.</a>*
<p>
He defeated a supporter of Pinochet's military dictatorship, which took
power in a US-backed military coup and then murdered thousands of
people that opposed it.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Right_wing_extremist_lgbt)
title: Right wing extremists seek to censor
uri: Right-wing-extremists-seek-to-censor
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Right_wing_extremist_lgbt)
content:
 
<p>
What right wing extremists seek to censor: *sex education, race,
LGBTQ+ lives and -– perhaps most troubling of all – 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/19/2021-banning-books-message-texas-lgbtq">those that teach
young people about their human rights.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Manchin_admits_determined)
title: Determined to make Americans poorer
uri: Determined-to-make-Americans-poorer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Manchin_admits_determined)
content:
 
<p>
Manchin admits he is determined to make 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/19/joe-manchin-biden-build-back-better-no-fox-news">Americans poorer.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Enemies_american_democracy)
title: Big anger and big money
uri: Big-anger-and-big-money
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Enemies_american_democracy)
content:
 
<p>
*The enemies of American democracy? 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/19/the-enemies-of-american-democracy-big-lie-big-anger-and-big-money">Big lie, big anger and big money.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Tory_ideas_freedom)
title: Ideas of freedom
uri: Ideas-of-freedom
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Tory_ideas_freedom)
content:
 
<p>
Tory ideas of freedom: people should be free to go to the theater
unvaccinated and spread disease, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/19/libertarian-tories-still-ask-to-see-papers-of-those-they-deem-not-worthy-of-freedom">but those who catch it as a result
are not free to get treatment.</a>
<p>
Also, free to extract and burn oil, but not free to inconvenience
anyone protesting against that.
<p>
By the way, Bagehot's words, quoted in the article, would seem to
justify almost any conceivable means to cut down the use of fossil
fuels.  Our society cannot survive continuing this way.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(world_finally_woke_up)
title: The science is clear
uri: The-science-is-clear
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(world_finally_woke_up)
content:
 
<p>
*The science is clear: climate, biodiversity and 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/20/2021-world-finally-woke-up-to-dangers-aoe">human health are fully interdependent.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(prison_radio_texas_deathrow)
title: Giving Texas men on death row a voice
uri: Giving-Texas-men-on-death-row-a-voice
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(prison_radio_texas_deathrow)
content:
 
<p>
*The prison radio station 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/20/joe-biden-must-use-his-presidential-powers-to-deliver-on-his-promises">giving Texas men on death row a voice.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(uk_legal_rulings)
title: UK is engineering legal rulings
uri: UK-is-engineering-legal-rulings
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(uk_legal_rulings)
content:
 
<p>
The UK is engineering legal rulings to give Venezuela's 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/2021/dec/20/guaido-closer-to-13bn-in-venezuelan-gold-after-uk-court-ruling">gold reserves of almost 2 billion dollars to golpista Juan Guaidó.</a>
This reminds of of the string of bizarre legal proceedings 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2019/10/24/assanges-extradition-case-about-crimes-empire">that engineered the decision to extradite Julian Assange to the US.</a>
<p>
In both cases, the UK has twisted its own legal system to do the US
bidding.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Jewish_woman_labour_party)
title: Is threatening legal action against the party
uri: Is-threatening-legal-action-against-the-party
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#21_December_2021_(Jewish_woman_labour_party)
content:
 
<p>
*An 82-year-old Jewish woman, who is being investigated by [88]Labour
for alleged antisemitism for the third time in less than three years,
is threatening legal action against the party, claiming it has
unlawfully 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/dec/20/jewish-woman-accused-antisemitism-labour-threatens-sue-anti-zionism">discriminated against her based on her belief in
anti-Zionism.</a>*
<p>
If she wins her suit, will Jeremy Corbyn and his supporters be readmitted
to the Labour Party?

 


title: Urgent: Tax Excessive CEO Pay Act
uri: 2021-12-24-Urgent-Tax-Excessive-CEO-Pay-Act
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Tax_Excessive_CEO_Pay_Act)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Tax_Excessive_CEO_Pay_Act)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/sign-on-support-the-tax-excessive-ceo-pay-act-now">pass the Tax Excessive CEO Pay Act</a>.
<p>
I think the specific rules described in the petition 
are not ideal, but I signed anyway because the overall idea is good.

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

 


title: Urgent: Remove Manchin as Chairman of Energy and Natural Resources
uri: Urgent-Remove-Manchin-as-Chairman-of-Energy-and-Natural-Resources
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Remove_Manchin_as_Chairman_of_Energy_and_Natural_Resources)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Remove_Manchin_as_Chairman_of_Energy_and_Natural_Resources)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on the Senate to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/replace-senator-joe-manchin-as-chairman-of-the-senate-committee-on-energy-and-natural-resources-now">remove Senator Joe Manchin as
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources</a>.

 


title: Urgent: Reduce sanctions on Afghanistan
uri: Urgent-Reduce-sanctions-on-Afghanistan
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Reduce_sanctions_on_Afghanistan)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Reduce_sanctions_on_Afghanistan)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Biden to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/dont-let-us-sanctions-policy-kill-1-million-afghan-children">reduce the sanctions on Afghanistan</a>
enough to ensure they do not cause anyone to starve.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_((satire)_Old_evidence)
title: (satire) Old evidence
uri: (satire)-Old-evidence
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_((satire)_Old_evidence)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Police Finally <a href="https://www.theonion.com/police-finally-throw-out-old-embarrassing-evidence-fro-1848084227">Throw Out Old, Embarrassing Evidence From '80s</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Omicron_will_test_US)
title: Omicron will test US
uri: Omicron-will-test-US
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Omicron_will_test_US)
content:
 
<p>

Omicron will test <a href="https://robertreich.substack.com/p/omicron">whether the US can now defend itself from pandemics</a>.
Our individual actions will add up to the nation's response.
<p>
Naturally, Republicans urge people to be selfish about it.  When they
say, "It is a personal decision," they mean, "Don't care about anyone
else."  By reducing solidarity, they aim to weaken the nation by
causing more sickness and more economic damage, which they will use to
stimulate support for imposing minority rule.
<p>
I will go further than Robert Reich, and suggest that you pull out of
any gatherings unless they are just a handful of people, all
vaccinated, and all limiting their other contacts.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Free_Covid_test_distribution)
title: Free Covid test distribution
uri: Free-Covid-test-distribution
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Free_Covid_test_distribution)
content:
 
<p>

*After Mocking Idea, Biden Administration to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/21/finally-after-mocking-idea-biden-administration-distribute-500-million-free-covid">Distribute 500 Million
Free Covid Tests</a>.*
<p>
You can look at the positive side: in just two weeks, they changed their
mind and adopted the policy.  That's pretty good flexibility.
<p>
But the first 500 million won't last long if people use them as often
as they should.
<p>
These tests give a significant fraction of false negatives, so don't
assume you're safe for others because you got a negative result.  The
real benefit of these tests is for employees who can't work from home
to use them frequently, and therefore avoid going to work after a
positive result.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Centuries-old_pub)
title: Centuries-old pub
uri: Centuries-old-pub
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Centuries-old_pub)
content:
 
<p>

People in Linlithgow are campaigning to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/dec/21/linlithgow-campaigners-fight-against-renaming-of-black-bitch-pub">preserve the name of a
centuries-old pub</a>, the Black Bitch, which refers to a female dog from
a 13th-century legend.
<p>
I agree with Nidhin Chand, the resident who said, "If people want to
address [racism in Linlithgow] they need to tackle real racism, not a
female dog.”  Her name suggest she is of Indian origin, so I would
expect she has been a target of racism.
<p>
If there are people who think the pub's name is racist, whether
residents or visitors, that results from ignorance &mdash; and ignorance
can be corrected.  For instance, the city could put up an a very
visible point-of-interest placard about the legend, near the pub
itself.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Today's_inflation)
title: Today's inflation
uri: Today-s-inflation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Today's_inflation)
content:
 
<p>

Robert Reich: the cause of today's inflation in the US is a lack of
competition.  Businesses raise prices even though they are making
great profits already, because there is nothing to stop them.
<p>
The Federal Reserve's chair, a Republican that Biden 
reappointed in the teeth of progressive demands <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#1_December_2021_(Urgent:_Vote_no_on_Jerome_Powell's_confirmation)">not to do so</a>,
is using that inflation as an opportunity to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/21/whats-driving-higher-prices-unchecked-corporate-power">cool down the economy</a>.
That will hamper unionization &mdash; surely a Republican's goal.
<p>
However, the Omicron variant is likely to cool the economy quite a bit
in January.  Even if few get badly sick from Omicron, many will have
to stay home.  Many businesses will have to reduce service.  So will
hospitals; people will die from that, including people with diseases
other than Covid.

 


title: United Mine workers support Build Back Better
uri: United-Mine-workers-support-Build-Back-Better
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(United_Mine_workers_support_Build_Back_Better)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(United_Mine_workers_support_Build_Back_Better)

content:
 
<p>

The United Mine Workers has called on Manchin to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/21/coal-miners-significantly-threatened-manchins-bbb-opposition-union-calls-senator">support the Build
Back Better bill</a>. This might change his mind.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Vaccine-or-test_mandate)
title: Vaccine-or-test mandate
uri: Vaccine-or-test-mandate
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Vaccine-or-test_mandate)
content:
 
<p>

OSHA's vaccine-or-test mandate for employees is now, at least temporarily,
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/21/oshas-employee-vaccine-or-test-mandate-smart-public-policy">back in effect</a>.  This ought to get a lot more Americans vaccinated,
and enable many others to stay home when sick.
<p>
Many retail stores have fewer than 100 employees, and they are exempt
from the requirement.  They should follow the policy anyway, or else
OSHA should include them &mdash; for the customers' safety.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Neanderthals_in_Europe)
title: Neanderthals in Europe
uri: Neanderthals-in-Europe
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Neanderthals_in_Europe)
content:
 
<p>

It appears that Neanderthals in Europe, 125,000 years ago, kept
forests open by <a href="http://www.sci-news.com/archaeology/neanderthal-landscapes-10386.html">starting fires occasionally</a>.
<p>
The indigenous Australians are known to have started brush fires
frequently enough that the fires burned only the brush, and spared the
trees.  This kept the terrain open.  It seems they did this by policy.
Perhaps biologically modern humans used this method everywhere that
it was applicable.
<p>
The article's information is that Neanderthals did basically the same
thing.  They too may have done it by policy, thought we don't know
yet.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Coal_companies'_drawdown_plans)
title: Coal companies' drawdown plans
uri: Coal-companies-drawdown-plans
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Coal_companies'_drawdown_plans)
content:
 
<p>

Reclaim Finance studied the drawdown plans of 47 coal companies
and found that only 3 have <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/21/despite-climate-imperative-94-analyzed-coal-companies-have-no-phaseout-plan">basically adequate plans</a>.
<p>
The rest are planning to sell their mines, or punt the ball into the future.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Subterranean_termites)
title: Subterranean termites
uri: Subterranean-termites
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Subterranean_termites)
content:
 
<p>

The UK has achieved a world first by <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/dec/21/a-world-first-devon-calls-victory-in-27-year-war-on-termites">eradicating subterranean termites</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(UK_migrant_convictions)
title: UK migrant convictions
uri: UK-migrant-convictions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(UK_migrant_convictions)
content:
 
<p>

A UK court <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/dec/21/convictions-quashed-for-men-who-drove-dinghies-across-channel">quashed the convictions</a> of four migrants who were forced to
drive the boats that they had paid to travel in.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Retired_British_teachers)
title: Retired British teachers
uri: Retired-British-teachers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Retired_British_teachers)
content:
 
<p>

Tories plan to ask retired British teachers to fill in when the
regular teachers are out sick with Covid-19.  Here's what the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/dec/20/wanted-former-teachers-who-dont-mind-risking-their-lives">request
would look like</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Daniel_Hale)
title: Daniel Hale
uri: Daniel-Hale
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Daniel_Hale)
content:
 
<p>

*New York Times Reporting on Airstrikes Should <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/20/new-york-times-reporting-airstrikes-should-give-daniel-hale-more-credit">Give Daniel Hale More
Credit</a>.  And call for Biden to immediately pardon him.*

 


title: Peng Shuai recorded announcement
uri: Peng-Shuai-recorded-announcement
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Peng_Shuai_recorded_announcement)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Peng_Shuai_recorded_announcement)

content:
 
<p>

Peng Shuai made a <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/chinese-tennis-star-peng-shuai-denies-assault-allegation-video-questioned-n1286295">recorded announcement</a> that she never accused a high
official of some sexual crime. We know this is false &mdash; people saw her statement.  She did accuse
him.
<p>
For a ruling organization that has contempt for truth, such as the
Chinese Communist Party or the Republican Party, it is perfectly
acceptable to flat-out deny what people know.  In China, hardly anyone
dares contradict an official lie.  Republicans have convinced tens of
millions of cultists to believe lies willingly when they come from the
cult's leaders.  Partly because they expect to be drummed out of the
cult if they ever disagree.
<p>
I don't see any description of what Peng said the official did, other
than "sexual assault", which is not specific.  It covers a wide range,
so we don't know what kind of act she is talking about.  However, in
this case I expect it had to be rather grave, to motivate her to take
such a risk.

 


title: Participation in extremist groups
uri: Participation-in-extremist-groups
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Participation_in_extremist_groups)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Participation_in_extremist_groups)

content:
 
<p>

The US military has <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/20/politics/pentagon-defines-extremist-behavior-military-extremism/index.html">prohibited active participation in extremist groups</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Defending_Julian_Assange)
title: Defending Julian Assange
uri: Defending-Julian-Assange
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Defending_Julian_Assange)
content:
 
<p>

*Defending Julian Assange Is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/21/defending-julian-assange-defending-anyone-who-dares-speak-truth">Defending Anyone Who Dares to Speak the Truth</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Putin's_bullshit)
title: Putin's bullshit
uri: Putin-s-bullshit
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Putin's_bullshit)
content:
 
<p>

The <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/22/we-do-not-want-war-russia-says-it-will-begin-talks-with-us-and-nato">core of Putin's bullshit</a> is to pretend that, for NATO not to make
concessions constitutes an attack.  "Russia has no place to retreat
to" pretends that for Russia not to attack would constitute retreat.
<p>
Humoring this pretense only gives Putin additional clout.  NATO by
doing so hobbles itself.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Caregivers_lost_to_Covid)
title: Caregivers lost to Covid
uri: Caregivers-lost-to-Covid
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Caregivers_lost_to_Covid)
content:
 
<p>

*More than 167,000 US children have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/dec/22/coronavirus-us-children-lost-caregiver-covid">lost a caregiver to Covid</a>.*
<p>
The wrecker and the Republican Party are to blame for making it so
many.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Violence_and_intimidation)
title: Violence and intimidation
uri: Violence-and-intimidation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Violence_and_intimidation)
content:
 
<p>

Right-wing extremist groups are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/22/us-far-right-groups-local-impacts">probing in towns and counties around
the US</a> for where they can get away with violence and intimidation.

 


title: Microplastics and inflammatory bowel disease
uri: Microplastics-and-inflammatory-bowel-disease
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Microplastics_and_inflammatory_bowel_disease)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Microplastics_and_inflammatory_bowel_disease)

content:
 
<p>

Research suggests a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/dec/22/microplastics-may-be-linked-to-inflammatory-bowel-disease-study-finds">relationship between microplastics and
inflammatory bowel disease</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Democrats_voting_rights)
title: Senate Democrats fail to pass voting rights
uri: Senate-Democrats-fail-to-pass-voting-rights
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Democrats_voting_rights)
content:
 
<p>
Senate Democrats have failed to 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/22/democrats-black-votes-matter-voting-rights">fight hard to pass voting rights</a>



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Us_afghan_sending_aid)
title: US has relaxed sanctions on Afghanistan
uri: US-has-relaxed-sanctions-on-Afghanistan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Us_afghan_sending_aid)
content:
 
<p>
The US has relaxed its sanctions on 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/22/us-eases-restrictions-sending-aid-famine-hit-afghanistan">Afghanistan to allow some
humanitarian aid to arrive there.</a>
<p>
It is disappointing that it took the US months to do do what is obviously
morally required.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(WHO_boss_booster)
title: WHO boss: Covid booster drives likely to prolong pandemic
uri: WHO-boss-Covid-booster-drives-likely-to-prolong-pandemic
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(WHO_boss_booster)
content:
 
<p>
*WHO boss: western countries’ Covid booster 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/22/who-boss-covid-booster-drives-likely-prolong-pandemic">WHO boss: Covid booster drives likely to prolong pandemic</a>*
<p>
That is true, unless we expand production quickly to the practical limits.
The way to do that is to allow generic production.
<p>
Furthermore, vaccination in poor countries is further limited because someone
has to pay the high market price. Allowing generic production would make
vaccines available at prices donors could afford to fund for everyone.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(KKK_FBI_murderplots)
title: Undercover Agent in the KKK reports murder plots
uri: Undercover-Agent-in-the-KKK-reports-murder-plots
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(KKK_FBI_murderplots)
content:
 
<p>
An undercover agent in the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/22/us-army-vet-fbi-kkk">Klu Klux Klan reported two murder plots
to the FBI.</a>
<p>
He also reported on uniformed "law enforcement" officers who were
traitors, working for the KKK. The agencies they worked for were
ineffectual at controlling this. Look at the Florida agency which
asks us to suppose that this problem is entirely a thing of the past.
<p>
The FBI has history of catching fantasy terrorists that could never
have committed violence in the real world without FBI informants'
holding their hands. 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2019/jun/07/new-york-terror-plot-times-square-man-accused-in-court">They were caught with fake explosives that they
believed were real.</a>
<p>
In this instance, the FBI investigated people who could have really
carried out violence, or helped do so.  The FBI was really doing its
job.
<p>
The fantasy terrorists were Islamists. It does not appear there is
a real Islamist terror network in the US, 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2019/10/29/trump-not-alone-among-americans-failing-understand-what-real-lynching">but there is a real
white-supremacist terror network</a>



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Omicron_lowrisk)
title: Data suggests Omicron is milder than Delta
uri: Data-suggests-Omicron-is-milder-than-Delta
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Omicron_lowrisk)
content:
 
<p>
Omicron is indeed milder, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/22/risk-of-hospital-stay-40-lower-with-omicron-than-delta-uk-data-suggests">and fewer patients will need to be admitted
to a hospital.</a>
<p>
However, because it spreads so fast, it can still overwhelm
medical systems.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Koch_movement_covid)
title: How Koch network hijacked resistance against Covid-19
uri: How-Koch-network-hijacked-resistance-against-Covid-19
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Koch_movement_covid)
content:
 
<p>
How the Koch Network built 
<a href="https://www.dailyposter.com/how-the-koch-network-hijacked-the-war-on-covid/">up the movement against resisting Covid-19.</a>
<p>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Boston_police_hidden_money)
title: Police bought tech with money hidden from public
uri: Police-bought-tech-with-money-hidden-from-public
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Boston_police_hidden_money)
content:
 
<p>
*Boston police bought spy tech with a 
<a href="https://www.wbur.org/news/2021/12/17/massachusetts-cell-site-simulator-civil-forfeitures">pot of money hidden from the
public.</a>*
<p>
The thug department got the money via "civil forfeiture", which is a
legal excuse to take people's money -- 
<p>
<a href="media/48fa2f18.policing-for-profit-3-web.pdf" data-original-source="https://ij.org/wp-content/themes/ijorg/images/pfp3/policing-for-profit-3-web.pdf">punishment without a trial.</a>
<p>
That's not their only source of funds for thumbing their noses at
the law: many thug departments have foundations set up to give them
money they can use in unaccountable ways.
<p>
In Cambridge, the thug department cannot evade the surveillance tech
ordinance by using outside funds. Boston should do likewise. More
generally, laws should forbid thug departments from buying arms or spy
devices without city authorization, regardless of what money they use,
and from accepting them as gifts.
<p>
As for civil forfeiture, that must be 
<a href="https://boingboing.net/2020/08/28/the-dea-seized-a-retired-railr.html"><Em>abolished</Em>.</a>
<p>
Punishment without trial is tyranny.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Biden_fuel_economy)
title: New Fuel Standards Still Allow Cars to Pollute More
uri: New-Fuel-Standards-Still-Allow-Cars-to-Pollute-More
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Biden_fuel_economy)
content:
 
<p>
*Biden's New Fuel Economy Standards Still 
<a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/3abk7b/bidens-new-fuel-economy-standards-still-allow-cars-to-pollute-more-if-theyre-not-called-cars">Allow Cars to Pollute More
If They're Not Called Cars.</a>*
<p>
The different categories once had a rationale, but changes in vehicle
production have erased that, leaving nothing but an excuse to pollute
more.
<p>
One simple solution is to put a big tax on the categories that are allowed
to pollute more.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(England_social_rent_hike)
title: England families face social rent hike
uri: England-families-face-social-rent-hike
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(England_social_rent_hike)
content:
 
<p>
British families living in public housing will be hit with many
increases in expenses including a rent increase, a tax increase, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/dec/22/five-million-families-in-england-face-big-social-housing-rent-hike-warns-thinktank">plus
gas and electric increases, along with inflation.</a>
<p>
*200,000 UK children 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/dec/22/200000-uk-children-could-be-made-homeless-this-winter-warns-shelter">could be made homeless this winter.</a>*
<p>
I'd expect that an even larger number of adults are in danger of
homelessness.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hindu_nationalists)
title: Hindutva groups are helping hate crime accused kodagu
uri: Hindutva-groups-are-helping-hate-crime-accused-kodagu
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hindu_nationalists)
content:
 
<p>
Hindu nationalists publicly support Indians accused of 
<a href="https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/nation-bjp-hindutva-groups-are-helping-hate-crime-accused-kodagu-158742">harassment of
Muslims and Christians.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hindu_forced_conversion)
title: Hindu-nationalists raving about supposed force conversions
uri: Hindu-nationalists-raving-about-supposed-force-conversions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hindu_forced_conversion)
content:
 
<p>
The Hindu-nationalists in India are raving about supposed forced
conversion to Islam the same way Republicans rave bout supposed voter fraud.
An official that seached for such cass in Karnataka and 
<a href="https://www.ndtv.com/karnataka-news/karnataka-officer-transferred-after-his-survey-showed-no-forced-conversion-2655110">couldn't find any
was punished just like Republicans who couldn't find any voter fraud.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(doj_home_confinement)
title: Some prisoners can stay on home confinement
uri: Some-prisoners-can-stay-on-home-confinement
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(doj_home_confinement)
content:
 
<p>
*Some Prisoners Released During Pandemic 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/21/some-prisoners-released-during-pandemic-can-stay-home-confinement-says-doj">Can Stay on Home Confinement,
Says DOJ.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Buy_now_pay_later)
title: Buy Now Pay Later
uri: Buy-Now-Pay-Later
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Buy_now_pay_later)
content:
 
<p>
"Buy now, pay later" is a form of borrowing with no 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/22/business/buy-now-pay-later-christmas/index.html">safeguard to assure
a user doesn't go heavily into debt.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(un_rape_allegations)
title: UN rape allegations
uri: UN-rape-allegations
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(un_rape_allegations)
content:
 
<p>
The sudanese opposition accuses the 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/22/africa/un-rape-allegations-sudan-intl/index.html">military of raping protesters.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Student_debtors_majorwin)
title: Biden Extends Loan Payment Freeze
uri: Biden-Extends-Loan-Payment-Freeze
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Student_debtors_majorwin)
content:
 
<p>
*'Major Win for 45 Million Student Debtors': 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/22/major-win-45-million-student-debtors-biden-extends-loan-payment-freeze">Biden Extends Loan Payment Freeze.</a>*
<p>
"Next, President Biden should cancel student debt," said Sen. Elizabeth
Warren.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_((Satire)_Fridge_Magnets)
title: (Satire) Extra Holiday Work Holding Up Christmas Cards
uri: (Satire)-Extra-Holiday-Work-Holding-Up-Christmas-Cards
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_((Satire)_Fridge_Magnets)
content:
 
<p>
(satire) *More Fridge Magnets Forced To 
<a href="https://www.theonion.com/more-fridge-magnets-forced-to-take-on-extra-holiday-wor-1848253930">Take On Extra Holiday Work Holding Up Christmas Cards.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(DPA_compel_vaccine)
title: Biden must move faster to end pandemic
uri: Biden-must-move-faster-to-end-pandemic
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(DPA_compel_vaccine)
content:
 
<p>
Biden should invoke the Defense Production Act to compel 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/22/free-home-tests-are-start-biden-must-move-faster-and-go-bigger-end-pandemic">vaccine companies
to cooperate with generic production.</a>



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Sanders_BBB_relief)
title: Sanders calls on Democrats to fight for relief bill
uri: Sanders-calls-on-Democrats-to-fight-for-relief-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Sanders_BBB_relief)
content:
 
<p>
Sanders calls on the Democratic Party to show courage and fight for
the Build Back Better relief bill.
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/22/forget-manchin-sanders-says-entire-democratic-party-must-show-guts-against-corporate"></a>
<p>
To make Manchin and Sinema visibly take a side for it or against it.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Manchin_corp_donations)
title: Donations Poured Into Manchin's PAC
uri: Donations-Poured-Into-Manchin-s-PAC
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Manchin_corp_donations)
content:
 
<p>
*Corporate Donations Poured Into Manchin's 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/22/corporate-donations-poured-manchins-pac-ahead-final-no-build-back-better">PAC Ahead of Final 'No' on Build
Back Better.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Kellog_contract_workers)
title: Union declares victory against Kelloggs
uri: Union-declares-victory-against-Kelloggs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Kellog_contract_workers)
content:
 
<p>
Striking workers at Kellogg's accepted a 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/22/union-declares-victory-kelloggs-strike-ends-pay-raise-moratorium-plant-closures">contract somewhat better than
the one they previously rejected.</a>
<p>
They did not abolish the two-tier system, but they established a way
for some newer workers to get into the higher tier.
<p>
Kellogg's responded to the rejection of its 
<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2021_Kellogg%27s_strike">unsatisfactory
contract by firing all the striking workers.</a>
<p>
People started a boycott in response. When I was ready to post about
it, I held off because of a report that a new contract was being
discussed.
<p>
I read that Kellogg's was unable to find any replacement workers to
hire.
<p>
I have never forgiven Kellogg's lawsuit against the erotic satire
comic Cherry Poptart. I enjoyed the joke, so resent the company for
censoring it. The trademark claim may have been invalid, since no one
was ever going to think that the comic had anything to do with
Pop-tarts or Kellogg's.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Congress_reform_court)
title: Call on Congress for Supreme Court Reform
uri: Call-on-Congress-for-Supreme-Court-Reform
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Congress_reform_court)
content:
 
<p>
Call on Congress to reform the Supreme Court to 
<a href="https://act.democracyforamerica.com/sign/Supreme_Court_Reform/?t=1002&refcode=g-Reich1222.d-20211222.m-27773.s-280925&akid=27773%2E1906019%2EI8WT2B">take it away from the
right-wing extremists.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Staffing_shortages_omicron)
title: Omicron causing some hospital staffing shortages
uri: Omicron-causing-some-hospital-staffing-shortages
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Staffing_shortages_omicron)
content:
 
<p>
Staff sick with Omicron is reducing the capacity of some US hospitals
just as 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/23/us-hospitals-staffing-shortages-omicron-covid">they were reaching the point of overload.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Electric_vehicles_teamup)
title: Climate Labor groups team up
uri: Climate-Labor-groups-team-up
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Electric_vehicles_teamup)
content:
 
<p>
*How electric vehicles 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/dec/23/electric-vehicles-climate-labor-groups-team-up">have helped labor and climate groups team up.</a>*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Covid_lasting_disability)
title: Covid-19 infections can result in lasting disability
uri: Covid-19-infections-can-result-in-lasting-disability
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Covid_lasting_disability)
content:
 
<p>
Even asymptomatic Covid-19 infections can result in lasting
disability, also known as "long Covid".  Will the disabilities
from previous 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/23/omicron-covid-19-long-hauler">Covid infections act as commodities to cause
massive deaths from Omicron?</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(reich_covid_holiday_plans)
title: Ditching holiday plans might not be the answer
uri: Ditching-holiday-plans-might-not-be-the-answer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(reich_covid_holiday_plans)
content:
 
<p>
Robert Reich: more important than whether you go to a holiday party is
whether 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/23/should-americans-ditch-their-holiday-plans-maybe-thats-the-wrong-question">the US will get its act together so we can protect each other
from Covid-19.</a>


 


title: Urgent: Fire wrecker's appointees in DOJ
uri: Urgent-Fire-wrecker-s-appointees-in-DOJ
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Fire_wrecker's_appointees_in_DOJ)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Fire_wrecker's_appointees_in_DOJ)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Attorney General Merrick Garland to <a href="https://act.demandprogress.org/sign/tell-attorney-general-merrick-garland-fire-trump-appointees-doj/">fire the
wrecker's appointees in the DOJ</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Cut_Pentagon_budget)
title: Urgent: Cut Pentagon budget
uri: Urgent-Cut-Pentagon-budget
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Cut_Pentagon_budget)
content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Biden to <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/biden-cut-the-pentagon-budget">cut the Pentagon budget</a>.

 


title: Urgent: Martha Wright-Reed Prison Phone Justice Act
uri: Urgent-Martha-Wright-Reed-Prison-Phone-Justice-Act
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Martha_Wright-Reed_Prison_Phone_Justice_Act)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Urgent:_Martha_Wright-Reed_Prison_Phone_Justice_Act)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.newmode.net/action/color-change/demand-congress-pass-martha-wright-reed-prison-phone-justice-act">pass the Martha Wright-Reed Prison
Phone Justice Act</a>.

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


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Songbirds_threatened_by_hunting)
title: Songbirds threatened by hunting
uri: Songbirds-threatened-by-hunting
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Songbirds_threatened_by_hunting)
content:
 
<p>

Some songbirds in Europe are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/23/struggle-to-save-europe-songbirds-aoe">threatened by traditional hunting</a> carried
out at a massive level.
<p>
There is no possible valid justification for unsustainable hunting of
threatened species.  People who advocate the right to hunt, if that is
not a euphemism for the right to trash the world, must support
regulation that will ensure that the species continues thrive.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Transgender_recognition)
title: Transgender recognition
uri: Transgender-recognition
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Transgender_recognition)
content:
 
<p>

A plan has been announced to change the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/23/why-am-i-being-abused-for-trying-to-improve-gender-recognition-process">UK's handling of transgender
recognition</a>, to better respect the rights of trans people and the need
for protection of biological females.
<p>
Since I'm neither a trans person nor a female, I don't have opinions
on the details of how to handle these things.  But I do intensely hope
that those two groups find a modus vivendi they can live with, so that
they cease to see each other as enemies.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Intel_apologized_to_China)
title: Intel apologized to China
uri: Intel-apologized-to-China
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Intel_apologized_to_China)
content:
 
<p>

Intel apologized to China for the offense of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/dec/23/intel-apologises-to-china-over-xinjiang-products-and-labour-directive">informing its suppliers</a>
that US law requires them to avoid products from and manufacturing in Xinjiang
(because of China's <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(China_uyghurs_total_repression)">repression of the Uyghurs</a> with forced labor and brainwashing).

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hong_Kong_statues)
title: Hong Kong statues
uri: Hong-Kong-statues
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hong_Kong_statues)
content:
 
<p>

As American cities remove statues of people that fought to continue
slavery, Hong Kong's universities are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/24/two-hong-kong-universities-remove-tiananmen-artworks-after-pillar-of-shame-dismantled">removing statues that
commemorated the Tien An Men Square protests</a> for democracy, and the
massacre of the protesting students.

 


title: Covid-19 in Rikers Island prison
uri: Covid-19-in-Rikers-Island-prison
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Covid-19_in_Rikers_Island_prison)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Covid-19_in_Rikers_Island_prison)

content:
 
<p>

Many of the prisoners in Rikers Island prison have <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/22/us/omicron-surge-rikers-jail/index.html">caught
Covid-19 in the past week</a>.
<p>
The city offered a bonus to persuade prisoners to get vaccinated.
One can't ask more than that.

 


title: Boston City thug department investigation
uri: Boston-City-thug-department-investigation
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Boston_City_thug_department_investigation)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Boston_City_thug_department_investigation)

content:
 
<p>

Boston City Council members are <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/boston-city-councilors-seek-review-of-surveillance-tech-purchase-by-police">investigating how the thug department is
spending money</a> taken from people without a trial to buy surveillance data.
<p>
This should extend to all forms of acquisition of surveillance
equipment &mdash; and arms &mdash; and to arranging to use them without buying
them.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Ending_Saudi_Blockade)
title: Ending Saudi Blockade
uri: Ending-Saudi-Blockade
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Ending_Saudi_Blockade)
content:
 
<p>

*AOC Leads Demand for Biden to Work on <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/22/aoc-leads-demand-biden-work-ending-saudi-blockade-crucial-yemen-airport">Ending Saudi Blockade</a> of Crucial Yemen
Airport.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Fed_must_act_on_climate_crisis)
title: Fed must act on climate crisis
uri: Fed-must-act-on-climate-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Fed_must_act_on_climate_crisis)
content:
 
<p>

*The Fed Must <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/22/fed-must-act-climate-crisis-protect-our-planet-and-economy">Act on the Climate Crisis</a> to Protect Our Planet and Economy.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Amazon_workers_worked_to_death)
title: Amazon workers worked to death
uri: Amazon-workers-worked-to-death
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Amazon_workers_worked_to_death)
content:
 
<p>

<!--
[also for amazon.html]
  -->

Amazon warehouse workers say that the company works them so hard that <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/22/amazon-workers-speak-out-about-deaths-alabama-warehouse">some die
from it</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Curbing_the_filibuster)
title: Curbing the filibuster
uri: Curbing-the-filibuster
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Curbing_the_filibuster)
content:
 
<p>

Biden has come around to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/23/politics/joe-biden-filibuster-voting-rights/index.html">accepting the idea of curbing the filibuster</a>,
if necessary, to pass voting rights laws.
<p>
To get this passed, he needs to do more than accept this.  He has to
lead a push for it, to have chance to get Manchin to go along with it.
And we are running out of time, as regards gerrymandering.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Saudi_Arabia_ballistic_missiles)
title: Saudi Arabia ballistic missiles
uri: Saudi-Arabia-ballistic-missiles
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Saudi_Arabia_ballistic_missiles)
content:
 
<p>

*US intel and satellite images show Saudi Arabia is now
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/23/politics/saudi-ballistic-missiles-china/index.html">building its own ballistic missiles</a> with help of China.*
<p>
Fortunately <a href="/glossary.html#salafi">Salafi Arabia</a> isn't building these to launch nuclear
weapons.

 


title: New York City divesting from fossil fuels
uri: New-York-City-divesting-from-fossil-fuels
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(New_York_City_divesting_from_fossil_fuels)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(New_York_City_divesting_from_fossil_fuels)

content:
 
<p>

New York City is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/22/historic-nyc-pension-fund-fossil-fuel-divestment-heralded-model-others">divesting all its pension funds from fossil fuels</a>.
Several funds have already completed the operation.

 


title: Moving away from "just-in-time" model
uri: Moving-away-from-just-in-time-model
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Moving_away_from_just-in-time_model)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Moving_away_from_just-in-time_model)

content:
 
<p>

*   Researchers have advocated <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/dec/23/pandemic-vulnerabilities-supply-chain-model">moving away from "just-in-time" model</a> to
   more resilient structures.*
<p>
"Just-in-time" is designed to maximize efficiency at the <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2012-jan-apr.html#9_January_2012_(Just_In_Time)">expense of
robustness</a>.  I've called it foolhardy.
<p>
In coming decades, <a href="/glossary.html#climate">climate mayhem</a> will cause disruptions of supply due
to floods, fires, mass starvation, and wars.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Books_right-wingers_ban)
title: Books right-wingers ban
uri: Books-right-wingers-ban
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Books_right-wingers_ban)
content:
 
<p>

The books that right-wingers ban in school libraries are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/dec/23/us-book-bans-conservative-parents-reading">gaining new
popularity</a>.
<p>
Do you believe that there were only two books about heterosexual
relationships in the high school library?  Nonsense!  Considering
Shakespeare only, they must have had Romeo and Juliet, Antony and
Cleopatra, Macbeth, King Lear, and Henry V.  But those books did not
show up in the search, perhaps because nobody thought of labeling them
with "homosexual."

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Goals_Manchin_opposes)
title: Goals Manchin opposes
uri: Goals-Manchin-opposes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Goals_Manchin_opposes)
content:
 
<p>

There are several ways Biden can use executive authority to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/20/joe-biden-must-use-his-presidential-powers-to-deliver-on-his-promises">accomplish
the goals that Manchin opposes</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Wrecker_could_face_charges)
title: Wrecker could face charges
uri: Wrecker-could-face-charges
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Wrecker_could_face_charges)
content:
 
<p>

*[The wrecker] could face charges for <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/24/donald-trump-charges-capitol-attack-obstruct-congress">trying to obstruct certification
of election</a>, legal experts say.*
<p>
I wonder if this law can be used to thwart Republican efforts to
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#15_December_2021_(Election_doubt)">override local election results</a> in future elections.
<p>
*Research identifies at least <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/23/voter-suppression-election-interference-republicans">262 bills were introduced in 41 states</a>
   this year with the intent to hijack the election process.*

 


title: Poland's underground refugee network
uri: Poland-s-underground-refugee-network
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Poland's_underground_refugee_network)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Poland's_underground_refugee_network)

content:
 
<p>

*"My grandmother hid Jewish children": Poland’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/dec/24/my-grandmother-hid-jewish-children-polands-underground-refugee-network">underground refugee network</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Christmas_in_the_Metaverse)
title: Christmas in the Metaverse
uri: Christmas-in-the-Metaverse
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Christmas_in_the_Metaverse)
content:
 
<p>

*It’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/dec/24/mark-zuckerberg-meta-virtual-reality">Christmas in the Metaverse</a>.*
Strictly for zuckers.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Omicron_travel_ban)
title: Omicron travel ban
uri: Omicron-travel-ban
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Omicron_travel_ban)
content:
 
<p>

*US to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/24/us-to-lift-omicron-travel-ban-on-eight-african-countries">lift Omicron travel ban</a> on eight African countries.*
<p>
The attempt to keep Omicron out of the US was worth a try, but there
is clearly no need to continue it.  I'm glad that the US has
demonstrated rationality, first by trying the travel ban quickly, and
then by ending it.

 


title: Urgent: Remove racist Rep. Boebert's committee assignments
uri: Urgent-Remove-racist-Rep-Boebert-s-committee-assignments
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#25_December_2021_(Urgent:_Remove_racist_Rep._Boebert's_committee_assignments)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#25_December_2021_(Urgent:_Remove_racist_Rep._Boebert's_committee_assignments)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on the House to <a href="https://act.coribush.org/sign/ads_ms_CB_202112-EA-progam-listr-boebert-q4-em002/">remove racist Rep. Boebert's committee
assignments</a>.
<p>
This needs to be done, but it is an inadequate punishment because they
don't care about their punishment.  They are making veiled but obvious
calls to overthrow US democracy and impose forced permanent minority
rule, and it is building up a movement to do exactly that.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Xinjiang_imports_banned)
title: Xinjiang imports banned
uri: Xinjiang-imports-banned
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Xinjiang_imports_banned)
content:
 
<p>
A new US law <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/23/business/biden-bans-xinjiang-imports-china-intl-hnk/index.html">presumes that goods produced in Xinjiang were made with
forced labor unless there is proof to the contrary</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(The_BMJ)
title: The BMJ
uri: The-BMJ
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(The_BMJ)
content:
 
<p>
Explaining the <a href="https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/what-the-heck-happened-to-the-bmj/">distortions in a widely circulated article</a> which
alleges many kinds of sloppiness in a 2020 clinical trial of the
Pfizer vaccine, and exaggerates their significance.
<p>
If the facts in the article are accurate, most of them have no effect
on the validity of the trial's conclusions.  As explained here, they
had a small chance of affecting some 1000 -- out of 44000 total
subjects -- in the trial.
<p>
That 2020 trial is irrelevent for evaluating the Pfizer vaccine
nowadays, because we now have records of hundreds of millions of
people who have been vaccinated with it.  That is far more evidence
than the trial gathered, and shows conclusively that the vaccine does
considerable good and hardly any harm.

 


title: Hindutva groups helping hate crime accused
uri: Hindutva-groups-helping-hate-crime-accused
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hindutva_groups_helping_hate_crime_accused)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#24_December_2021_(Hindutva_groups_helping_hate_crime_accused)

content:
 
<p>
Hindu nationalists publicly support Indians accused of 
<a href="https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/nation-bjp-hindutva-groups-are-helping-hate-crime-accused-kodagu-158742">harassment of
Muslims and Christians.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Climate_affecting_health)
title: Climate affecting health
uri: Climate-affecting-health
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Climate_affecting_health)
content:
 
<p>
A list of many ways <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/24/climate-change-brings-serious-health-risks">climate mayhem affects, and will increasingly affect,
human health</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Disparaging_comments)
title: Disparaging comments
uri: Disparaging-comments
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Disparaging_comments)
content:
 
<p>
*Local officials call on Idaho sheriff to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/24/us/idaho-sheriff-disparaging-comments-native-americans/index.html">resign after he allegedly
made disparaging comments about Native Americans</a>.*
<p>
Officials must serve all the public -- those who accept bigotry are
not qualified for the job.  This goes double for cops, because bigoted
cops are likely to be thugs.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Amazon_and_worker_unions)
title: Amazon and worker unions
uri: Amazon-and-worker-unions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Amazon_and_worker_unions)
content:
 
<p>
*Amazon Settlement With NLRB Could <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/23/big-deal-amazon-settlement-nlrb-could-ease-worker-unionization-efforts">Ease Worker Unionization Efforts</a>.*
The settlement binds Amazon to avoid certain forms of union-busting,
for all its US warehouses, and will enable the NLRB to act quickly if
Amazon violates the deal.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Manchin)
title: Manchin
uri: Manchin
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Manchin)
content:
 
<p>
*21 Million+ <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/23/21-million-going-hungry-us-manchin-tanks-expanded-child-tax-credit">Going Hungry in US</a> as Manchin Tanks Expanded Child Tax Credit.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Reckless_oil_search_plan)
title: Reckless oil search plan
uri: Reckless-oil-search-plan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Reckless_oil_search_plan)
content:
 
<p>
*Conservationists say a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/dec/24/reckless-plan-to-search-for-oil-and-gas-will-put-one-of-worlds-healthiest-reefs-at-risk-conservationists-say">plan to search for oil and gas near Rowley
Shoals in north-west Australia is "reckless" and will put one of the
world’s healthiest reefs at risk</a>.*
<p>
That is a powerful secondary reason for not considering extraction
there.  It may persuade some of those that don't give a damn about the
primary reason: there is no room in the <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-jul-oct.html#10_September_2021_(Estimating_the_carbon_budget)">carbon budget</a> for any new
fossil fuel extraction.
Continued emission of CO2 makes the ocean acidic and will <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2017-mar-jun.html#11_May_2017_(Removing_CO2)">eventually
kill essentialy <em>all</em> coral, and many other kinds of marine animals too</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Fight_privileges_of_the_few)
title: Fight privileges of the few
uri: Fight-privileges-of-the-few
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Fight_privileges_of_the_few)
content:
 
<p>

*Gabriel Boric vows to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/20/gabriel-boric-vows-to-fight-privileges-of-the-few-as-chiles-premier">"fight privileges of the few"</a> as Chile’s premier.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Risk_of_civil_war)
title: Risk of civil war
uri: Risk-of-civil-war
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Risk_of_civil_war)
content:
 
<p>

Republicans' coup preparations are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/20/us-closer-to-civil-war-new-book-barbara-walter-trump-capitol-attack">pushing the US towards a risk of
civil war</a>.

 


title: New Zealand quarantine requirements
uri: New-Zealand-quarantine-requirements
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(New_Zealand_quarantine_requirements)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(New_Zealand_quarantine_requirements)

content:
 
<p>

New Zealand has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/21/new-zealand-delays-border-reopening-in-bid-to-strengthen-defences-against-omicron">extended its quarantine requirements</a> to stop Omicron
from spreading at large.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Formal_pardon_of_witches)
title: Formal pardon of "witches"
uri: Formal-pardon-of-witches
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Formal_pardon_of_witches)
content:
 
<p>

Scotland is moving to pass a law to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/dec/19/executed-witches-scotland-pardons-witchcraft-act">formally pardon the people
executed as "witches" until 1736</a>.
<p>
There is a <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-jul-oct.html#28_October_2021_(Witchcraft)">campaign</a> for all of Europe to do this.

 


title: Amir Assadollahzadeh seeking asylum
uri: Amir-Assadollahzadeh-seeking-asylum
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Amir_Assadollahzadeh_seeking_asylum)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Amir_Assadollahzadeh_seeking_asylum)

content:
 
<p>

Amir Assadollahzadeh, Iranian athlete competing at a championship in
Norway, was threatened with punishment by his national team unless he
publicly showed support for General Soleimani.  <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/20/sport/amir-assadollahzadeh-powerlifter-iran-cmd-spt-intl/index.html">He fled and has sought
asylum</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(End-Permian_mass_extinction)
title: End-Permian mass extinction
uri: End-Permian-mass-extinction
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(End-Permian_mass_extinction)
content:
 
<p>

In the end-Permian mass extinction, 7-10° C of <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> caused
microbes to grow faster and turn most of the ocean into a deoxygenated
dead zone.  Then other microbes, those which could metabolize sulfur,
did so and filled the ocean with hydrogen sulfide, which <a href="http://www.sci-news.com/paleontology/toxic-microbes-end-permian-marine-mass-extinction-10382.html">killed most
other sea life</a>.
<p>
We could be on target to make 7°C of <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> &mdash; especially with the help
of <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#2_December_2021_(Rain_replacing_snow_in_the_Arctic)">methane leaking from permafrost</a>.
Maybe equally drastic (though different) results will follow.
<p>
How many humans could survive that?

 


title: Article about trial of Pfizer vaccine
uri: Article-about-trial-of-Pfizer-vaccine
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Article_about_trial_of_Pfizer_vaccine)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Article_about_trial_of_Pfizer_vaccine)

content:
 
<p>

<a href="https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/what-the-heck-happened-to-the-bmj/">Explaining the distortions</a> in a widely circulated article which
alleges many kinds of sloppiness in a 2020 clinical trial of the
Pfizer vaccine, and exaggerates their significance.
<p>
If the facts in the article are accurate, most of them have no effect
on the validity of the trial's conclusions.  As explained here, they
had a small chance of affecting some 1000 &mdash; out of 44000 total
subjects &mdash; in the trial.
<p>
That 2020 trial is irrelevant for evaluating the Pfizer vaccine
nowadays, because we now have records of hundreds of millions of
people who have been vaccinated with it.  That is far more evidence
than the trial gathered, and shows conclusively that the vaccine does
considerable good and hardly any harm.

 


title: China spreading propaganda on Facebook and Twitter
uri: China-spreading-propaganda-on-Facebook-and-Twitter
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(China_spreading_propaganda_on_Facebook_and_Twitter)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(China_spreading_propaganda_on_Facebook_and_Twitter)

content:
 
<p>

*How China <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/12/20/technology/china-facebook-twitter-influence-manipulation.html">Uses Contractors to Spread Propaganda on Facebook and Twitter</a>.*
It includes spreading false reports to undermine those who criticize
or resist China.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_((satire)_Next_of_kin_exhausted)
title: (satire) Next of kin exhausted
uri: (satire)-Next-of-kin-exhausted
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_((satire)_Next_of_kin_exhausted)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Nation's Next Of Kin <a href="https://www.theonion.com/nation-s-next-of-kin-exhausted-from-constantly-identify-1848092233">Exhausted From Constantly Identifying Bodies</a>.*
<p>
The article exaggerates &mdash; this sort of burden is limited to states
ruled by Republicans.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Voter-suppression_in_Chile)
title: Voter-suppression in Chile
uri: Voter-suppression-in-Chile
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Voter-suppression_in_Chile)
content:
 
<p>

Reporting that bus service in Chile was <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2021/12/20/progressive-international-statement-chiles-historic-election">shut down on election day</a>
as a voter-suppression tactic.
It was not successful in preventing Baric's victory.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Ceasefire_offer)
title: Ceasefire offer
uri: Ceasefire-offer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Ceasefire_offer)
content:
 
<p>

*Tigrayan forces to pull out of nearby Ethiopian regions in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/20/tigrayan-forces-to-pull-out-of-nearby-ethiopian-regions-in-ceasefire-offer">ceasefire offer</a>.*
<p>
We are getting little scraps of information, and I don't think we can make
any sense of them.

 


title: Right-Wing groups collected PPP loans
uri: Right-Wing-groups-collected-PPP-loans
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Right-Wing_groups_collected_PPP_loans)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Right-Wing_groups_collected_PPP_loans)

content:
 
<p>

*Right-Wing Groups Opposed to Government Aid <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/12/21/ppp-loans-prager-university-hypocrisy/">Cashed In While Collecting PPP
Loans</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Backlash_from_climate_activists)
title: Backlash from climate activists
uri: Backlash-from-climate-activists
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Backlash_from_climate_activists)
content:
 
<p>

*The European Commission is facing a backlash from Greta Thunberg
and fellow climate activists over <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/21/eu-in-row-over-inclusion-of-gas-and-nuclear-in-sustainability-guidance">plans to include gas and nuclear
energy</a> in a "green" investment guidebook.*
<p>
The plan to include subterranean gas is so absurd that it amounts to
telling the world to drop dead.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Stopped_giving_presents)
title: Stopped giving presents
uri: Stopped-giving-presents
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Stopped_giving_presents)
content:
 
<p>

*My family Christmas has got a lot better since we <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/21/christmas-without-gifts-easy-more-fun">stopped giving presents</a>.*
<p>
I am not at all inclined to celebrate Christmas, but if I did participate in a
family holiday, I would consider following that family's decision.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Proposed_pandemic_plan)
title: Proposed pandemic plan
uri: Proposed-pandemic-plan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Proposed_pandemic_plan)
content:
 
<p>

Proposing a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/21/covid-will-not-be-our-last-global-health-crisis-we-need-a-long-term-plan">plan for confronting this pandemic and future pandemics</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Paxlovid_for_Covid-19_patients)
title: Paxlovid for Covid-19 patients
uri: Paxlovid-for-Covid-19-patients
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Paxlovid_for_Covid-19_patients)
content:
 
<p>

Paxlovid <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/21/paxlovid-anti-covid-pill-why-not-available">saves most people who catch Covid-19</a>, and reduces transmission, too.
We need to make enough for everyone. You can be sure Big Pharma will block the way we could produce enough to
save everyone.

 


title: US' ditching of landmark climate legislation
uri: US-ditching-of-landmark-climate-legislation
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(US'_ditching_of_landmark_climate_legislation)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(US'_ditching_of_landmark_climate_legislation)

content:
 
<p>

*By ditching landmark climate legislation, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/21/us-build-back-better-climate-crisis-legislation">America makes the world
 unsafe</a>.*
<p>
Other countries should threaten the US with economic sanctions
unless it helps save the world from <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.

 


title: Tories trying to take away rights
uri: Tories-trying-to-take-away-rights
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Tories_trying_to_take_away_rights)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Tories_trying_to_take_away_rights)

content:
 
<p>

*"Foreign criminals" are just an excuse: the Tories are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/21/foreign-criminals-tories-human-rights-act">trying to take away
rights from all of us</a>.*
<p>
The enemies of liberty always find a scapegoat to serve as an excuse.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(US_labor_organizing_rises)
title: US labor organizing rises
uri: US-labor-organizing-rises
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(US_labor_organizing_rises)
content:
 
<p>

*<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/21/labor-organizing-pandemic-decline">US labor organizing rises in 2021</a> after decades of decline.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Fake_fears_of_inflation)
title: Fake fears of inflation
uri: Fake-fears-of-inflation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Fake_fears_of_inflation)
content:
 
<p>

*Joe Manchin Is <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/12/20/joe-manchin-inflation-fears-questionable/">Faking His Fears of Inflation</a>.*

 


title: Activists in Egypt sentenced to prison
uri: Activists-in-Egypt-sentenced-to-prison
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Activists_in_Egypt_sentenced_to_prison)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Activists_in_Egypt_sentenced_to_prison)

content:
 
<p>

Activists who protested for democracy in Egypt have now been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/20/leading-activist-in-egypts-2011-uprising-and-two-others-jailed">sentenced
to prison</a>.
<p>
The charges of "spread false news" remind us that a truth-hating government
will apply these charges to truth-telling.  If the Republicans take control,
they will prohibit refuting their lies.

 


title: Communications between Project Veritas and The New York Times
uri: Communications-between-Project-Veritas-and-The-New-York-Times
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Communications_between_Project_Veritas_and_The_New_York_Times)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Communications_between_Project_Veritas_and_The_New_York_Times)

content:
 
<p>

The New York Times obtained confidential communications between
Project Veritas and its lawyer.  Project Veritas got an injunction
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/media/2021/dec/25/new-york-times-project-veritas-memos">ordering the Times not to publish the memos</a>.
<p>
This violates the First Amendment's protection of freedom of the
press, as it has generally been interpreted.  I wish we could count on
the Supreme Court to stand by that protection.

 


title: Vietnamese workers smuggled into Europe
uri: Vietnamese-workers-smuggled-into-Europe
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Vietnamese_workers_smuggled_into_Europe)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Vietnamese_workers_smuggled_into_Europe)

content:
 
<p>

Vietnamese workers accept debts as much <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/dec/25/revealed-the-secret-forced-labour-migration-route-from-vietnam-to-the-uk">as $30,000 to get smuggled
into Europe</a> and forced to work doing construction, manufacturing,
agriculture, restaurants and nail bars.
They pass through a Chinese factory set up as part of a special deal
between China and Serbia.
<p>
Each trip to another country is a gamble on a false dream.
In effect, they are addicted to gambling.

 


title: Hindu nationalists mimic Nazi Germany
uri: Hindu-nationalists-mimic-Nazi-Germany
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Hindu_nationalists_mimic_Nazi_Germany)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Hindu_nationalists_mimic_Nazi_Germany)

content:
 
<p>

*Hindu nationalists <a href="http://twocircles.net/2021dec25/444528.html">mimic Nazi Germany</a> with a vow to "fight, die, and kill".*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Profits_of_one_trafficking_ring)
title: Profits of one trafficking ring
uri: Profits-of-one-trafficking-ring
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Profits_of_one_trafficking_ring)
content:
 
<p>

One trafficking ring made $200 million <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/25/us-farms-made-200m-human-smuggling-labor-trafficking-operation">trafficking workers from Mexico
to work as slaves on farms in Georgia</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Aggressive_variants_guaranteed)
title: Aggressive variants guaranteed
uri: Aggressive-variants-guaranteed
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Aggressive_variants_guaranteed)
content:
 
<p>

*Global health experts and activists have been warning for more than a
   year that <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/23/who-saw-omicron-coming-many-fact">aggressive variants of the virus are essentially guaranteed</a>
   as long as much of the world’s population remains unvaccinated.*

 


title: UK sloppy environmental protections
uri: UK-sloppy-environmental-protections
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(UK_sloppy_environmental_protections)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(UK_sloppy_environmental_protections)

content:
 
<p>

George Monbiot registered his deceased goldfish as a waste disposal
business to show how <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/24/dead-goldfish-licensed-waste-disposer-system-falling-apart">utterly sloppy</a> the UK government is about
protecting the environment.

 


title: Stella McCartney increased her own salary
uri: Stella-McCartney-increased-her-own-salary
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Stella_McCartney_increased_her_own_salary)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Stella_McCartney_increased_her_own_salary)

content:
 
<p>

Stella McCartney (to name just one rich person that you may have
heard of) <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2021/dec/23/stella-mccartney-got-pay-rise-as-fashion-firm-took-furlough-cash">increased her own salary</a> even as her company was getting 
government money to help it last through Covid-19.

 


title: Requirement to offset new greenhouse gas emissions
uri: Requirement-to-offset-new-greenhouse-gas-emissions
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Requirement_to_offset_new_greenhouse_gas_emissions)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Requirement_to_offset_new_greenhouse_gas_emissions)

content:
 
<p>

A legal requirement to offset new greenhouse gas emissions has the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/22/cleanup-cost-of-heathrow-third-runway-doubles-to-100bn-mps-told">effect
of a tax on emissions</a>, because the required offsets will cost money
whether or not they actually absorb any CO2.

 


title: Pentagon treats civilians as expendable
uri: Pentagon-treats-civilians-as-expendable
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Pentagon_treats_civilians_as_expendable)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Pentagon_treats_civilians_as_expendable)

content:
 
<p>

*The Pentagon's 20-Year Killing Spree Has <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/20/pentagons-20-year-killing-spree-has-always-treated-civilians-expendable">Always Treated Civilians as
Expendable</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Costs_of_vaccinating_everyone)
title: Costs of vaccinating everyone
uri: Costs-of-vaccinating-everyone
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Costs_of_vaccinating_everyone)
content:
 
<p>

Vaccinating everyone against Covid-19 will <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/20/money-medicines-vaccinate-world-rich-countries-gordon-brown">cost far less</a> than allowing
it to continue to cause havoc.  Here are recommendations.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Pipelines_in_Okinawa)
title: Pipelines in Okinawa
uri: Pipelines-in-Okinawa
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Pipelines_in_Okinawa)
content:
 
<p>

The US military installed pipelines to transport jet fuel around
Okinawa, but it has <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/12/20/us-military-japan-okinawa-pipelines-pfas/">covered up the fact that the sensors to check for
leaks are broken</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Fintech_startups)
title: Fintech startups
uri: Fintech-startups
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Fintech_startups)
content:
 
<p>

Explaining fintech startups as ideas for systems to move money around
and make it look like something special and brilliant, so people <a href="https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/12/satyajit-das-fintechs-flim-flam-innovation-games.html">won't
count how much they're paying for it</a>.

 


title: Google and Apple spyphone duopoly
uri: Google-and-Apple-spyphone-duopoly
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Google_and_Apple_spyphone_duopoly)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#27_December_2021_(Google_and_Apple_spyphone_duopoly)

content:
 
<p>

Google and Apple divide up the market for spyphones; this duopoly does
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/dec/14/google-and-apple-have-vice-like-grip-on-uk-mobiles-warns-regulator">part of the harm that a monopoly would do</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Fires_getting_harder_to_fight)
title: Fires getting harder to fight
uri: Fires-getting-harder-to-fight
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Fires_getting_harder_to_fight)
content:
 
<p>
*[Although] the amount of [US] land burned
this year didn’t reach 2020 levels, a troubling new trend emerged:
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/25/what-the-numbers-tells-us-about-a-catastrophic-year-of-wildfires">fires are getting harder to fight</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Kim_Potter)
title: Kim Potter
uri: Kim-Potter
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Kim_Potter)
content:
 
<p>
Kim Potter was <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/24/us/kim-potter-conviction-friday/index.html">convicted of killing Daunte Wright</a>, apparently based on
concluding that her taking the pistol by mistake constituted such
great negligence as to be criminal.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Manchin's_excuse_refuted)
title: Manchin's excuse refuted
uri: Manchin-s-excuse-refuted
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Manchin's_excuse_refuted)
content:
 
<p>
Manchin's excuse of "inflation", for blocking the climate-and-relief
bill, is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/24/not-true-sanders-counters-manchins-bogus-inflation-argument-against-build-back">refuted by Sanders and by many economists</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Gerrymandering)
title: Gerrymandering
uri: 2021-12-28-Gerrymandering
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#26_December_2021_(Gerrymandering)
content:
 
<p>
The NAACP, represented by the ACLU, has <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/24/packing-and-cracking-new-lawsuit-challenges-south-carolinas-racial-redistricting">sued South Carolina in federal
court for its newly designed system of racist gerrymandering</a>.
<p>
They deserve to prevail, but I am concerned about one possible obstacle.
I seem to recall that, two or three years ago, the US Supreme Court's
right-wing majority ruled that federal courts had no jurisdiction over
state-level gerrymandering.
<p>
Is that correct?  If so, does it imply that this lawsuit is doomed to
defeat?  If there is a crucial legal difference in this case, can
anyone tell me what it is?

 


title: Urgent: Overturn sale of fossil fuel leases
uri: Urgent-Overturn-sale-of-fossil-fuel-leases
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Urgent:_Overturn_sale_of_fossil_fuel_leases)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Urgent:_Overturn_sale_of_fossil_fuel_leases)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Interior Secretary Haaland to overturn the recent sale
of fossil fuel leases.  Phone 1-866-834-8040.
<p>
I also said that the Interior Department should block all drilling
that it can block, because there is no room for it in the carbon
budget.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Urgent:_Ban_on_landmines)
title: Urgent: Ban on landmines
uri: Urgent-Ban-on-landmines
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Urgent:_Ban_on_landmines)
content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Biden to <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/biden_landmines">reinstate the ban on landmines</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Manchin's_fossil_fuel_income)
title: Manchin's fossil fuel income
uri: Manchin-s-fossil-fuel-income
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Manchin's_fossil_fuel_income)
content:
 
<p>

Manchin's blind trust, meant to reduce his conflicts of interest,
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/13/filings-reveal-manchins-blind-trust-cant-explain-away-blatant-conflict-interest">does not contain all his income from the fossil fuel stock</a> he owns.
<p>
That means it fails to eliminate his conflict of interest.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Proving_citizenship)
title: Proving citizenship
uri: Proving-citizenship
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Proving_citizenship)
content:
 
<p>

Texas has a new effort to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/22/texas-voting-program-voter-rolls-citizenship">remove voter registrations</a> from people
who fail to prove their citizenship when challenged.
While it is true that non-citizens have no right to vote in the US
(except in certain local elections in <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_December_2021_(NYC_noncitizens_to_vote)"> places that have granted them
the right to vote</a>), it is easy to abuse a program like this to prevent some citizens
from lawfully voting.  They may have moved and not get the letter.
Poor people often have to move frequently.  They may get scared of any
sort of "trouble", especially if they belong to dis-privileged racial
or ethnic groups.
<p>
In addition, the agency carrying out the purge has opportunities to do
racial profiling when choosing whom to challenge.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Work_requirements_on_Medicaid)
title: Work requirements on Medicaid
uri: Work-requirements-on-Medicaid
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Work_requirements_on_Medicaid)
content:
 
<p>

Biden has put an end to the Republican plan to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/24/huge-deal-biden-rebuffs-georgias-medicaid-work-requirement-last-us">attach work
requirements to Medicaid</a>, state by state.

 


title: Job discrimination against Black and Asian-Americans
uri: Job-discrimination-against-Black-and-Asian-Americans
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Job_discrimination_against_Black_and_Asian-Americans)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Job_discrimination_against_Black_and_Asian-Americans)

content:
 
<p>

Black and Asian-American job applicants <a href="https://hbswk.hbs.edu/item/minorities-who-whiten-job-resumes-get-more-interviews">face discrimination in simply
getting a job interview</a>.  The proof is in a study that found they were
twice as likely to get an interview if their resumes avoided disclosing
their race.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Plastic_pellets_in_the_sea)
title: Plastic pellets in the sea
uri: Plastic-pellets-in-the-sea
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Plastic_pellets_in_the_sea)
content:
 
<p>

The plastic pellets called "nurdles", used as the base for molding
plastic products, <a href="https://www.motherjones.com/environment/2021/11/nurdles-plastic-pellet-ocean-pollution-toxic-waste-fossil-fuels/">may be toxic to animals</a> when they spill in the sea.
There is a push to upgrade the standards for shipping them to make
it less likely they will get loose if a container falls in the water.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Hopes_for_Chile's_new_president)
title: Hopes for Chile's new president
uri: Hopes-for-Chile-s-new-president
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Hopes_for_Chile's_new_president)
content:
 
<p>

Ariel Dorfman <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/25/why-chiles-election-signals-major-shift">describes his hopes</a> for Chile's new president Boric, as
well as the obstacles and opportunities he faces.

 


title: Sue schools teaching "critical race theory"
uri: Sue-schools-teaching-critical-race-theory
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Sue_schools_teaching_critical_race_theory)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Sue_schools_teaching_critical_race_theory)

content:
 
<p>

DeSantis wants to <a href="https://boingboing.net/2021/12/15/ron-desantis-announces-stop-woke-act-that-allows-florida-parents-to-sue-if-systemic-racism-is-taught.html">authorize parents to sue schools</a> that teach "critical race theory".
<p>
Critical race theory is historical study of the development of racism
and its role in the history of the US.  That is a legitimate and
important part of US history.  But when right-wingers use that term,
it means all sorts of different things.  We can't tell what sorts of
teaching that law will actually try to do away with.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Global_protests_rising)
title: Global protests rising
uri: Global-protests-rising
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Global_protests_rising)
content:
 
<p>

Global protests have been <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/26/age-discontent-what-drives-rising-wave-world-protests">rising for 10 years</a>.  Most of them support
progressive causes; a minority are far-right-wing.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Regulations_for_DINP)
title: Regulations for DINP
uri: Regulations-for-DINP
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Regulations_for_DINP)
content:
 
<p>

The EPA has <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/12/07/epa-dinp-phthalates-child-sexual-development-cancer-birth-defects/">delayed 20 years in developing regulations for DINP</a>, an
endocrine disruptor and carcinogen.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Quiet_culprits_of_climate_chaos)
title: Quiet culprits of climate chaos
uri: Quiet-culprits-of-climate-chaos
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Quiet_culprits_of_climate_chaos)
content:
 
<p>

*Revealed: US Public Pension Funds Are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/08/revealed-us-public-pension-funds-are-quiet-culprits-climate-chaos">"Quiet Culprits of Climate Chaos"</a>.*

 


title: Opposition to generic Covid-19 vaccines
uri: Opposition-to-generic-Covid-19-vaccines
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Opposition_to_generic_Covid-19_vaccines)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Opposition_to_generic_Covid-19_vaccines)

content:
 
<p>

Labour has attacked the UK government for <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/dec/26/labour-claims-uk-ministers-risking-emergence-of-new-covid-variants">opposing the approval
of generic manufacture</a> of Covid-19 vaccines.
<p>
At least it has done one good thing.

 


title: Fraction of public at risk with Covid-19
uri: Fraction-of-public-at-risk-with-Covid-19
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Fraction_of_public_at_risk_with_Covid-19)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Fraction_of_public_at_risk_with_Covid-19)

content:
 
<p>

The public is encouraged to feel it is safe to open the economy and
spread Covid-19 because only "people with underlying conditions" die.
Then that is equated to people who are unproductive and on their last
legs anyway.  But actually it's a <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/underlying-health-conditions-that-s-almost-all-of-us-20210904-p58otg.html">large fraction of everyone</a>.
<p>
That article cites statistics for Australia, but I expect the situation
is similar elsewhere.
<p>
However, there are situations in which we really need to keep part of
the economy going.  The US medical system is being undermined by the
number of staff who are getting Covid-19.  There is a move to let sick
workers <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/26/nurses-union-slams-cdc-guidance-shortening-isolation-period-healthcare-workers-covid">return to work sooner</a>, which medical personnel say is
dangerous.
<p>
Which is worse &mdash; for some people to get treatment from staff that
have a slightly larger chance of giving them Covid-19, or for some people
not to get treatment at all?  I think it depends on the details.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(More_education,_less_poverty)
title: More education, less poverty
uri: More-education-less-poverty
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(More_education,_less_poverty)
content:
 
<p>

An <a href="https://jacobinmag.com/2021/04/cristina-groeger-interview-education-trap-solution-inequality-social-mobility">argument against</a> the prevailing belief that more education
naturally leads to a general reduction in poverty.
<p>
A lack of education can keep people's wages down, but providing more
education doesn't necessarily enable poor people to earn more.  There
are other things that can keep wages down, including business owners'
greed, racism, and sexism.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Voting_made_harder)
title: Voting made harder
uri: Voting-made-harder
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Voting_made_harder)
content:
 
<p>

*Democracy under attack: how Republicans led the effort to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/27/democracy-under-attack-trump-republicans">make it
harder to vote</a>.*

 


title: Masks for reducing Covid-19 spread
uri: Masks-for-reducing-Covid-19-spread
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Masks_for_reducing_Covid-19_spread)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Masks_for_reducing_Covid-19_spread)

content:
 
<p>

A cloth mask does some good in reducing the spread of Covid-19,
if it's over your nose and mouth, and a surgical mask is better.
But you can get <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/27/best-masks-covid-tests-cloth-surgical-respirators">a lot more protection</a> from an N95 or FFP2 mask.
<p>
Real KN95 masks are equivalent, but there are lots of counterfeit
KN95s.  The CDC has a web page that lists many counterfeit KN95
brands, but I'd rather get an FFP2.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Journalist_stuck_in_Dubai)
title: Journalist stuck in Dubai
uri: Journalist-stuck-in-Dubai
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Journalist_stuck_in_Dubai)
content:
 
<p>

Mudassar Kadir, a former BBC journalist in Afghanistan, got out of Afghanistan
but is stuck in Dubai.  The UK scheme to aid refugees who worked for the UK
government <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/27/afghan-ex-bbc-journalist-stranded-for-months-due-to-home-office-scheme-delays">doesn't cover people who worked for the BBC</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(In_prison_in_Russia)
title: In prison in Russia
uri: In-prison-in-Russia
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(In_prison_in_Russia)
content:
 
<p>

<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/27/russian-court-increases-jail-sentence-for-gulag-historian">15 years in prison in today's Russia</a>, for writing about the Soviet
Union's crimes.

 


title: PEN America taken over by plutocratists
uri: PEN-America-taken-over-by-plutocratists
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(PEN_America_taken_over_by_plutocratists)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(PEN_America_taken_over_by_plutocratists)

content:
 
<p>

PEN America, founded by writers to defend the freedom to write, has
been <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/27/julian-assange-pen-america-and-ruling-class-acquiescence">taken over by plutocratists</a>.  This shows when the organization smears
Julian Assange in the process of nominally defending him.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Regulating_Facebook)
title: Regulating Facebook
uri: Regulating-Facebook
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Regulating_Facebook)
content:
 
<p>

Various <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/dec/25/facebook-how-to-fix-break-up-regulation">proposed approaches to regulating Facebook</a>.

 


title: Feeling hopeless about the climate?
uri: Feeling-hopeless-about-the-climate
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Feeling_hopeless_about_the_climate_)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Feeling_hopeless_about_the_climate_)

content:
 
<p>

*Feeling Hopeless About the Climate? Try Our <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/25/feeling-hopeless-about-climate-try-our-30-day-action-plan">30-Day Action Plan</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Russia_globalheating_disaster)
title: Russia's global heating disaster
uri: Russia-s-global-heating-disaster
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Russia_globalheating_disaster)
content:
 
<p>
Russia has allied itself with <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/13/russia-vetoes-un-security-council-resolution-climate-crisis-international-peace">global heating disaster</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Philosophy_helpsus_besetus)
title: Which philosophy helps us confront crises?
uri: Which-philosophy-helps-us-confront-crises
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Philosophy_helpsus_besetus)
content:
 
<p>
*Which philosophy helps us confront the crises that 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/26/which-philosphy-helps-us-confront-crises-that-beset-us">beset us... "we first" or
"me first"?</a>*
<p>
I agree with the basic point. We can't expect capitalism to naturally produce a system that will give society the best of capitalism and share the benefits with all of us. Capitalism tends to empower the greedy, who will seek to leave us in poverty. Preventing that requires institutions that are powerful enough to keep the rich down.
<p>
Ironically, we see that functioning only in China. But China's political repression makes it hell to be shunned.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Sanders_congress_n95_masks)
title: Sanders Says Congress Must Ensure N95 Masks
uri: Sanders-Says-Congress-Must-Ensure-N95-Masks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Sanders_congress_n95_masks)
content:
 
<p>
*Sanders Says Congress Must 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/27/omicron-surges-sanders-says-congress-must-ensure-mass-distribution-n95-masks">Ensure Mass Distribution of N95 Masks.</a>*
<p>
I predict Republicans will oppose this. Although Republicans say they are only against requirements to wear masks, in general they oppose <Em>all</Em> wearing of masks to slow the spread of Covid-19. More than that, they oppose all efforts to slow the spread of Covid-19. They will oppose making better masks available because that would result in making fewer people sick. Some oppose vaccines, saying they want people to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/18/dangerous-myth-natural-immunity-superior-covid-vaccination">develop immunity the dangerous "natural" way, rather than the safe way by vaccines.</a>
<p>
There is no reason to take that extra risk.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Smokers_teenagers_parents)
title: Parents and caregivers that smoke influence children to smoke
uri: Parents-and-caregivers-that-smoke-influence-children-to-smoke
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_(Smokers_teenagers_parents)
content:
 
<p>
Parents and caregivers that smoke have a 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/dec/28/smokers-teenagers-parents">powerful influence on children to smoke.</a>
<p>
In Britain, teenage children of those parents are four times as likely to
smoke like other teenagers.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_((Satire)_Oakley_sunglasses)
title: (satire) Oakley Introduces New Sunglasses
uri: (satire)-Oakley-Introduces-New-Sunglasses
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#29_December_2021_((Satire)_Oakley_sunglasses)
content:
 
<p>
(satire) *Oakley Introduces 
<a href="https://www.theonion.com/oakley-introduces-line-of-sunglasses-for-front-of-head-1848246515">Line Of Sunglasses For Front Of Head.</a>*



 


title: Air filters reduce Covid-19 spread
uri: Air-filters-reduce-Covid-19-spread
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Air_filters_reduce_Covid-19_spread)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Air_filters_reduce_Covid-19_spread)

content:
 
<p>

Air filters <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/dec/27/covid-air-filters-for-all-classrooms-in-england-would-cost-half-of-royal-yacht">reduce the spread of Covid-19 indoors</a>.  Putting them in
all classrooms and other school spaces would help keep schools open
safely, and at a low cost too.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Multiverse_for_zuckers)
title: Multiverse for zuckers
uri: Multiverse-for-zuckers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Multiverse_for_zuckers)
content:
 
<p>

Yanis Varoufakis: why the Multiverse is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/27/why-we-must-challenge-zuckerbergs-ring-power">fundamentally designed for zuckers</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Covid-19_enriched_billionaires)
title: Covid-19 enriched billionaires
uri: Covid-19-enriched-billionaires
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Covid-19_enriched_billionaires)
content:
 
<p>

Covid-19 provided an <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/26/business/global-poverty-covid-pandemic-intl-hnk/index.html">opportunity for billionaires to enrich themselves</a>,
in the process pushing around 100 million people into poverty.
Governments should have prevented this, but didn't try hard.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(SpaceX_satellites)
title: SpaceX satellites
uri: 2021-12-30-SpaceX-satellites
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(SpaceX_satellites)
content:
 
<p>

Satellites launched by SpaceX threatened <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/dec/28/china-complains-to-un-after-space-station-is-forced-to-move-to-avoid-starlink-satellites">collision with China's space station</a> twice this year.  The US should not permit SpaceX to do that.
<p>
China aside, Starlink's planned 12,000 satellites would increase the
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/29/books-and-films-censored-under-franco-still-circulating-in-spain">danger of collisions that would produce more space junk</a>.
Despite the best of care in choosing their orbits &mdash; which SpaceX
appears not to have taken &mdash; it will be dangerous.  So it should never
have been approved.  No activity should get approval for thousands of
satellites.
<p>
To say "China does wrong too" does not constitute an excuse.
In space, and on Earth, we must work together to avoid disaster,
not argue about who is worse.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(US_truck_drivers)
title: US truck drivers
uri: US-truck-drivers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(US_truck_drivers)
content:
 
<p>

Over recent decades, US truck drivers' <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/dec/27/us-truck-drivers-economy-pay-conditions">wages have gone down</a>, their
working conditions have got much worse, and they are made to work long
hours, including many hours of unpaid waiting.
<p>
Drivers' unions have been mostly broken, and most of them are treated
as gig workers.
<p>
No wonder there is a shortage of truck drivers.

 


title: Vaccination for domestic US flights
uri: Vaccination-for-domestic-US-flights
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Vaccination_for_domestic_US_flights)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Vaccination_for_domestic_US_flights)

content:
 
<p>

Dr Fauci proposes requiring <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/fauci-domestic-travel-vaccine-mandate/index.html">vaccination for domestic US flights</a>.
<p>
I am in favor of this.  Anything that gets more Americans vaccinated
will save American lives and help beat Covid-19.  Of course, there
will be an exception for people who for medical reasons must not be
vaccinated.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Russian_human_rights_group)
title: Russian human rights group
uri: Russian-human-rights-group
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Russian_human_rights_group)
content:
 
<p>

*Russian court orders <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/28/russian-court-memorial-human-rights-group-closure">closure of country’s oldest human rights group</a>,* Memorial.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Environmental_protesters_jailed)
title: Environmental protesters jailed
uri: Environmental-protesters-jailed
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Environmental_protesters_jailed)
content:
 
<p>

*At least <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/28/at-least-18-peaceful-environmental-protesters-jailed-in-uk-this-year">18 peaceful environmental protesters jailed</a> in UK this year.*
Some have been sentenced to months in prison.
<p>
The magnitude of the disaster they are trying to prevent clearly justifies
disruption &mdash; but if their action makes the general public angry instead
of winning support, it would seem to be backfiring.

 


title: Injustice of oil companies as motivation
uri: Injustice-of-oil-companies-as-motivation
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Injustice_of_oil_companies_as_motivation)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Injustice_of_oil_companies_as_motivation)

content:
 
<p>

The injustice of the oil companies can <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/28/follow-the-science-public-climate-crisis">motivate people to fight against
global heating</a>.
<p>
However, in order to know what the threat is, and what to fight for, they
still need to understand at least what science says is going to happen.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Poland's_use_of_Pegasus)
title: Poland's use of Pegasus
uri: Poland-s-use-of-Pegasus
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Poland's_use_of_Pegasus)
content:
 
<p>

Poland's right-wing government used Pegasus to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/28/poland-pegasus-spyware-donald-tusk">spy on opposition
politicians</a>.
<p>
This is one among many <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jul-oct.html#19_August_2020_(In_Poland_we">antidemocratic</a> measures it has used.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Information_about_abortion)
title: Information about abortion
uri: Information-about-abortion
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Information_about_abortion)
content:
 
<p>

Google, Facebook and Instagram are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/27/rights-groups-accuse-tech-giants-throttling-content-abortion-pills">restricting accurate information
about abortion</a> while permitting misinformation.

 


title: Why they don't want us to look up
uri: Why-they-don-t-want-us-to-look-up
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Why_they_don't_want_us_to_look_up)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Why_they_don't_want_us_to_look_up)

content:
 
<p>

*Why the Very Worst People Really <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/27/why-very-worst-people-really-dont-want-us-look">Don't Want Us to Look Up</a>.*
<p>
If you want to watch the movie Don't Look Up, please don't watch it
<em>on Netflix</em>.  That company uses malicious software and malicious
hardware in people's computers to restrict what they can do with the
video data.
<p>
It also records data about who watches what &mdash; data that should not
exist anywhere.
<p>
It also demands that its customers agree to an antisocial contract
promising not to share copies.  If you have agreed to that antisocial
promise, you did wrong &mdash; so don't compound the wrong by keeping the
promise!  But really you shouldn't agree to it in the first place.
<p>
There many reasons to <a href="/netflix.html">flick off Netflix</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Congress_should_mark_Jan._6)
title: Congress should mark Jan. 6
uri: Congress-should-mark-Jan-6
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Congress_should_mark_Jan._6)
content:
 
<p>

*Cori Bush: Congress Should Mark Jan 6. by <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/27/cori-bush-congress-should-mark-jan-6-expelling-members-who-helped-incite-attack">Expelling Members Who
Helped Incite Attack</a>.*
They violated their oath to defend the constitution.
<p>
She knows, as we know, that other Republicans in Congress will block that.
She aims to highlight how thoroughly the main stream of the Republican
Party has become disloyal to their country.

 


title: Shell's seismic tests in South Africa
uri: Shell-s-seismic-tests-in-South-Africa
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Shell's_seismic_tests_in_South_Africa)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Shell's_seismic_tests_in_South_Africa)

content:
 
<p>

* Court instructs [Shell] to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/dec/28/campaigners-force-shell-to-halt-oil-exploration-on-south-african-coast">stop [seismic] tests along Wild Coast [of
   South Africa]</a> after concerns raised about wildlife and lack of
   consultation.*
<p>
What this suggests to me is that government regulators failed to do
their job, failed to enforce regulations.  Perhaps Shell's money
played a role in bringing that about.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(California's_water_shortage)
title: California's water shortage
uri: California-s-water-shortage
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(California's_water_shortage)
content:
 
<p>

California's record-breaking December snowfall is <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/28/us/california-december-snow-record-drought-climate/index.html">not enough to end
the years-long drought</a>.  Without more snow in the rest of the winter,
the water shortage will continue to get worse.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Pan-EU_solidarity)
title: Pan-EU solidarity
uri: Pan-EU-solidarity
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Pan-EU_solidarity)
content:
 
<p>

The response to Covid-19 has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2021/dec/29/covid-europe-citizens-eu-response-pandemic-european-health">awakened pan-EU solidarity</a> in pan-EU
public opinion.
<p>
However, Slovenia joined Poland and Hungary in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/29/eastern-european-countries-adopt-authoritarian-measures-covid">undermining democracy
and civil liberties</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Plastic_beads_on_nets)
title: Plastic beads on nets
uri: Plastic-beads-on-nets
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Plastic_beads_on_nets)
content:
 
<p>

*Plastic beads could <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/29/plastic-beads-could-make-nets-more-visible-to-cetaceans-scientists-say">make nets more visible to cetaceans</a>, scientists say.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Freedom_to_investigate)
title: Freedom to investigate
uri: Freedom-to-investigate
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Freedom_to_investigate)
content:
 
<p>

Putin is crushing the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/28/international-memorial-rights-group-closure-russia-analysis">freedom to investigate and report</a> on Stalin's
crimes of 70 years ago and more.
<p>
The European Court of Human Rights, to which Russia is a party, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/29/russian-court-orders-closure-of-another-human-rights-group">ruled in favor
of allowing Memorial to operate</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Journalism_in_Hong_Kong)
title: Journalism in Hong Kong
uri: Journalism-in-Hong-Kong
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Journalism_in_Hong_Kong)
content:
 
<p>

In Hong Kong, journalism that criticizes the government in any way is
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/29/speed-of-stand-news-shutdown-sends-chilling-signal-to-hong-kongs-media">now forbidden</a>.  Even people who stopped months ago face prison for
doing it before.
<p>
Everyone in Hong Kong who once criticized the state must be terrified
now, but freezing and keeping mum will not prevent their being jailed,
tortured and crushed.  I hope that they have a chance to get out of
Hong Kong and apply for asylum, but the state may already have blocked
that.  Otherwise, the only way I can see they can escape a fate worse
than death is choose to die taking an enemy with you.
<p>
I hope that I will have the courage to die fighting if I am ever in a
situation like that.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Import_of_Canadian_hydropower)
title: Import of Canadian hydropower
uri: Import-of-Canadian-hydropower
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Import_of_Canadian_hydropower)
content:
 
<p>

A regional project for Massachusetts to import Canadian hydropower
through Maine has run into difficulties because people living near the
planned cable were unhappy with it.  Planet roasters <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/29/maine-renewable-energy-hydropower-new-england">aggravated the
dispute in order to kill the plan</a>.
<p>
It wouldn't surprise me if the cable contractor chose an annoying route
in order to increase its profits.  Maybe its path should be changed.
Maybe Massachusetts should pay Mainers and Anishnabeg more for the
electricity so as to win their approval.  Why not?  They are not well
off.
<p>
But I criticize the article for calling them "the most affected
communities", assuming that people who live near the power cable &mdash;
who are concerned about aesthetics and tourism &mdash; have more at stake
than the hundreds of millions whose lives will be upended, or simply
ended, by <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> disaster.
<p>
This deal is very important because it is a step towards saving them.
Changing details to salvage the deal is fine.  Killing it is not.

 


title: Censored books and movies in Spain
uri: Censored-books-and-movies-in-Spain
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Censored_books_and_movies_in_Spain)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Censored_books_and_movies_in_Spain)

content:
 
<p>

Franco's dictatorship in Spain <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/29/books-and-films-censored-under-franco-still-circulating-in-spain">censored books and movies politically</a>.
Censored versions are still being published, lent, and broadcast.
<p>
The uncensored works should be brought out, but I don't think the
censored versions should be destroyed or hidden from the public.
People should be able to see what right-wing censorship did.

 


title: Making the right noises, not taking the right actions
uri: Making-the-right-noises-not-taking-the-right-actions
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Making_the_right_noises,_not_taking_the_right_actions)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Making_the_right_noises,_not_taking_the_right_actions)

content:
 
<p>

*   Now that they can no longer pretend the climate crisis isn’t real, big
   emitters and their enablers are making all of the right noises –- and
   <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/30/in-australias-climate-wars-delay-and-deception-are-the-new-denial">taking none of the right actions</a>.*
This includes Australia's government.
<p>
It also includes United Airlines.  It proposes to use "100% green
fuel" for its planes, and plans to burn a lot more fuel than today;
but it has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/29/united-airlines-sustainable-green-flying-experts">no plausible plan to get <em>enough</em> of this green fuel</a> to run
more than a fraction of its flights.

 


title: Labeling genetically engineered foods
uri: Labeling-genetically-engineered-foods
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Labeling_genetically_engineered_foods)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Labeling_genetically_engineered_foods)

content:
 
<p>

A lawsuit challenges the <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2021/12/29/facing-ongoing-litigation-challenge-federal-gmo-food-labeling-regulations-go">intentionally inadequate US system for
labeling genetically engineered foods</a>.
<p>
Each kind of genetic modification raises different issues, so it is a
mistake to generalize about them.  There is no reason to suppose by
default that they do practical harm, but some specific modified
varieties can do harm for specific reasons.  Aside from that, <a href="/articles/biopiracy.html">they
are likely to carry patents which would do practical harm to society
if it depends on them for something important.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Let_it_rip_Covid-19_strategy)
title: "Let it rip" Covid-19 strategy
uri: Let-it-rip-Covid-19-strategy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Let_it_rip_Covid-19_strategy)
content:
 
<p>

*   Australia’s independent expert group OzSage has savaged the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/dec/30/ozsage-experts-warn-let-it-rip-covid-strategy-will-condemn-vulnerable-australians-to-death">“let it rip” Covid-19 strategy</a> in New South Wales and elsewhere, saying it will
   condemn some people to death, particularly the more vulnerable.*
<p>
Australia has apparently flipped completely from the approach it used
until a few months ago.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Indonesia_relents_after_outcry)
title: Indonesia relents after outcry
uri: Indonesia-relents-after-outcry
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Indonesia_relents_after_outcry)
content:
 
<p>

*Indonesia <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/30/indonesia-relents-on-plan-to-push-back-boat-carrying-100-rohingya-refugees-after-outcry">relents on plan to push back boat carrying 100 Rohingya
refugees</a> after outcry.*

 


title: Crime to offer inducement for religious conversion
uri: Crime-to-offer-inducement-for-religious-conversion
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Crime_to_offer_inducement_for_religious_conversion)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Crime_to_offer_inducement_for_religious_conversion)

content:
 
<p>

Some Indian states are making it a crime to <a href="https://thewire.in/government/karnataka-anti-conversion-bill-criticism">offer any sort of
inducement to convert to a religion</a>.
Even beyond that, a local official will have the power to decide
what constitutes an inducement.  That opens the door to repressive
selective enforcement &mdash; in favor of Hinduism and against anything
else.
<p>
What if the law were enforced honestly and narrowly?  That's not going
to happen under a rulig party that encourages religious-based hate
crimes, but let's suppose.
<p>
I think that would still unacceptably restrictive.  People should not
be required to get government approval for what they believe.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Unpatented_Covid-19_vaccine)
title: Unpatented Covid-19 vaccine
uri: Unpatented-Covid-19-vaccine
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Unpatented_Covid-19_vaccine)
content:
 
<p>

Public benefactors have <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/28/unpatented-shot-dubbed-worlds-covid-19-vaccine-wins-emergency-approval-india">developed an unpatented Covid-19 vaccine</a>
and taught various companies around the world how to make it.
<p>
If it works against Omicron, it would be a great step forward.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Not_a_substitute_for_abortion)
title: Not a substitute for abortion
uri: Not-a-substitute-for-abortion
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Not_a_substitute_for_abortion)
content:
 
<p>

Giving away a baby is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/28/adoption-does-not-remove-need-access-abortion">not a simple and painless substitute for abortion</a>.
It isn't painless for the mother, nor for the baby's subsequent life.
<p>
I wonder to what extent the pain, nowadays, of an adopted child's
subsequent life is socially constructed.  Was it painful in general
200 years ago to be adopted, if your adoptive parents were not poor
and treated you as well as their other children?  I don't know.
Perhaps in most cases you would know all along who your biological
parents were and the reason for the adoption &mdash; for instance, because
your parents had more children than they could support, or because
they had died, or to give a childless relative an heir.  But there
would have been shame imposed on you if your parents were unmarried.
<p>
In my view, making one more human being is not inherently a plus &mdash;
and even less so nowadays, considering the <a href="/articles/children.html ">disaster that any newborn
today would be heading for</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Women_forbidden_to_drive)
title: Women forbidden to drive
uri: Women-forbidden-to-drive
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Women_forbidden_to_drive)
content:
 
<p>

The Taliban have <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/28/asia/afghanistan-taliban-women-travel-intl/index.html">forbidden women to drive</a>, or ride in a car, over 45 miles
from home, except with a male relative.
<p>
This will make it harder for women who are trapped by other forms of
repression to get out of Afghanistan.  Perhaps that is its purpose.
<p>
<a href="/glossary.html#salafi">Salafi Arabia</a> continues to be even worse.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(An_end_to_winter)
title: An end to winter
uri: An-end-to-winter
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(An_end_to_winter)
content:
 
<p>

Global heating is on track to more or less <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/12/29/world/end-of-winter-greenland-porter-fox-climate/index.html">put an end to winter</a>.

 


title: Helping thugs put people in danger
uri: Helping-thugs-put-people-in-danger
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Helping_thugs_put_people_in_danger)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Helping_thugs_put_people_in_danger)

content:
 
<p>

A network of experts that generally underestimate the risk of certain
methods of tying or grabbing people systematically <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/26/us/police-deaths-in-custody-blame.html">help thugs get away
with putting them in danger of death</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Welfare_queens)
title: Welfare queens
uri: Welfare-queens
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Welfare_queens)
content:
 
<p>

*The Right[-Wing] Wants to <a href="https://jacobinmag.com/2021/12/va-veterans-benefits-disability-wounding-warriors-gade-huang">Make Disabled Veterans Into the New
"Welfare Queens</a>."*
<p>
As usual, <a href="/glossary.html#plutocratist">plutocratist</a> politicians say they will "reform" the Veterans
Health Administration to make it more efficient.  As usual, the real
result is to make the actual work more costly, while saving money by
creating opportunities to refuse to help people.
<p>
I wonder what sort of jobs wounded veterans who still have all their
limbs have a chance today of getting and doing successfully.  If you
have no special skill that's in demand, you probably have to work 10
hours a day for a pittance and have your <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2017-nov-feb.html#24_February_2018_(Wage_theft)">wages stolen</a>.
<p>
Right-wing politicians generally advocate giving rich people "more
incentives" while giving poor people "tough love".  This fits the
pattern.

 


title: Arizona Department of Child Safety
uri: Arizona-Department-of-Child-Safety
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Arizona_Department_of_Child_Safety)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Arizona_Department_of_Child_Safety)

content:
 
<p>

*Arizona <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/a-mother-needed-welfare-instead-the-state-used-welfare-funds-to-take-her-son">spends a majority of its welfare budget on the Department of
Child Safety</a>. The agency then investigates many poor parents,
sometimes removing their children for reasons stemming from their
poverty.*
<p>
Right-wing politicians generally advocate giving rich people "more
incentives" while giving poor people "tough love".  This fits the
pattern.

 


title: What is the real meaning of January 6
uri: What-is-the-real-meaning-of-January-6
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(What_is_the_real_meaning_of_January_6)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(What_is_the_real_meaning_of_January_6)

content:
 
<p>

Robert Reich: <a href="https://robertreich.substack.com/p/real-meaning-jan-6">*What is the real meaning of January 6?*</a>

 


title: Global heating eating away homes
uri: Global-heating-eating-away-homes
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Global_heating_eating_away_homes)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Global_heating_eating_away_homes)

content:
 
<p>

Places where global heating is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/gallery/2021/dec/29/our-house-was-gone-it-was-sea-and-sand-life-on-the-vanishing-coasts-in-pictures">eating away at people's homes</a>.

 


title: Ordering book removal from school libraries
uri: Ordering-book-removal-from-school-libraries
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Ordering_book_removal_from_school_libraries)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Ordering_book_removal_from_school_libraries)

content:
 
<p>

Oklahoma Republicans are considering a bill to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/29/madness-oklahoma-bill-would-empower-parents-remove-books-school-libraries">allow parents to
order the school library to remove specific books</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Jamal_Khashoggi's_killers)
title: Jamal Khashoggi's killers
uri: Jamal-Khashoggi-s-killers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Jamal_Khashoggi's_killers)
content:
 
<p>

*Jamal Khashoggi's killers <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/30/jamal-khashoggi-killers-living-in-luxury-villas-in-riyadh-say-witnesses">living in luxury villas in Riyadh</a>, say witnesses.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Unpatriotic_patriots)
title: Unpatriotic "patriots"
uri: Unpatriotic-patriots
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Unpatriotic_patriots)
content:
 
<p>

*There is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/30/patriots-are-undermining-american-democracy">nothing more unpatriotic</a> than someone who calls [perself] a
"patriot."  The flag-waving hypocrites who proudly proclaim their
loyalty to their country are determined to kill America.*
<p>
There is nothing new in seeing those who wish to spread cruelty and
repression wrapping themselves in the flag.  But I have struggled to think
of a word that fits the enormity of the wrong those people are doing.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Anti-Covid_drug_molnupiravir)
title: Anti-Covid drug molnupiravir
uri: Anti-Covid-drug-molnupiravir
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Anti-Covid_drug_molnupiravir)
content:
 
<p>

The anti-Covid drug molnupiravir <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/29/experts-warn-mercks-fda-authorized-covid-pill-could-create-breeding-ground-mutant">has the potential to encourage the
development of new variants</a>.
<p>
Only testing it in practice would show whether this happens or not;
but if does, the result could be a disaster.
<p>
Since the Pfizer treatment is more effective and does not have this
risk, we should not use molnupiravir.

 


title: Narrow criteria for possible exposure
uri: Narrow-criteria-for-possible-exposure
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Narrow_criteria_for_possible_exposure)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(Narrow_criteria_for_possible_exposure)

content:
 
<p>

Just as Covid-19 has evolved to spread more easily than ever,
Australia has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/dec/30/fewer-australians-to-have-covid-tests-as-national-cabinet-agrees-to-new-definition-of-close-contact">adopted a criterion for "possible exposure" which is
narrower than ever</a>.
<p>
It looks like a plan to avoid finding out about most cases of Covid-19.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(New_Orleans_municipal_wifi)
title: New Orleans municipal wifi
uri: New-Orleans-municipal-wifi
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#30_December_2021_(New_Orleans_municipal_wifi)
content:
 
<p>

New Orleans is planning a municipal wifi system that would operate
privately and <a href="https://newrepublic.com/article/164876/new-orleans-free-wifi-surveillance">enable surveillance of its users</a>.

 


title: Urgent: Force private equity big businesses to pay back Covid-19 bailout money
uri: Urgent-Force-private-equity-big-businesses-to-pay-back-Covid-19-bailo
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Urgent:_Force_private_equity_big_businesses_to_pay_back_Covid-19_bailout_money)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Urgent:_Force_private_equity_big_businesses_to_pay_back_Covid-19_bailout_money)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on the Small Business Administration: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/tell-the-sba-hold-wall-street-accountable-by-forcing-private-equity-big-businesses-to-pay-back-covid-relief-money-now">force private
equity big businesses to pay back Covid-19 bailout money now</a>.

 


title: CDC warns about cost of Covid-19 treatment
uri: CDC-warns-about-cost-of-Covid-19-treatment
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(CDC_warns_about_cost_of_Covid-19_treatment)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(CDC_warns_about_cost_of_Covid-19_treatment)

content:
 
<p>

The CDC, to encourage vaccination, warns that a stay in a US hospital
for Covid-19 treatment <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/28/cdcs-covid-19-vaccine-push-threatens-americans-exorbitant-hospital-bills">could cost thousands of dollars</a>.
This to motivate people to get vaccinated and avoid the need for
hospital treatment.
<p>
Some progressives condemned this ad campaign.  One said that the
government is "boasting" about the crushing expense of the US medical
system &mdash; but that is false.  To cite painful facts does not excuse
them.
<p>
Progressives should not object when the CDC acknowledges that medical
treatment in the US can have crushing costs.  Instead, progressives
should take advantage of the CDC's help (reminding Americans about how
bad the current system is) for the campaign for a national medical
system, also known as <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#19_March_2021_(Medicare_for_All)">"Medicare for all"</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Persecution_of_India's_Christians)
title: Persecution of India's Christians
uri: Persecution-of-India-s-Christians
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Persecution_of_India's_Christians)
content:
 
<p>

*Arrests, Beatings and Secret Prayers: Inside the <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20211229174956/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/22/world/asia/india-christians-attacked.html">Persecution of India's
Christians</a>.*
<p>
Muslims remain the main target of Hindu-supremacists, with fanatics
<a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20211231184923/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/24/world/asia/hindu-extremists-india-muslims.html">calling for murdering Muslims</a>,
and the government saying nothing to discourage them &mdash; perhaps encouraged
by the <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jan-apr.html#11_January_2021_(Incitement_of_violence)">example of the wrecker in the US</a>.
<p>
A few years ago the Hindu-supremacist government of India <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jan-apr.html#19_January_2021_(Killer_venerated)">adopted a
pair of laws</a> that make it easy to declare Muslims non-citizens and
exile them.
<p>
Nowadays, all religions other than Hindu are now targets.  Buddhists
have faced persecution, especially when <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2014-sep-dec.html#11_September_2014_(Hindu_fanatics)">Dalits want to convert to
Buddhism</a> as a rejection of Hinduism's oppression of them &mdash; following <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2015-jan-apr.html#18_March_2015_(Dr_Ambedkar)">Dr Ambedkar's</a> lead.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Real_time_censorship_of_testimony)
title: Real time censorship of testimony
uri: Real-time-censorship-of-testimony
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Real_time_censorship_of_testimony)
content:
 
<p>

Guantanamo prison is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/30/anti-democratic-and-cowardly-us-building-new-secret-courtroom-guantanamo">building a new court room</a> designed for real time
censorship of testimony.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Autonomous_weapon_systems)
title: Autonomous weapon systems
uri: Autonomous-weapon-systems
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Autonomous_weapon_systems)
content:
 
<p>

A UN meeting <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/30/humanitys-final-arms-race-un-fails-agree-killer-robot-ban">failed to agree on banning autonomous weapon systems</a>, and
meanwhile it's possible they are already being used.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Number_of_threatened_species)
title: Number of threatened species
uri: Number-of-threatened-species
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Number_of_threatened_species)
content:
 
<p>

The number of recorded threatened species has jumped from <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/30/within-decade-planets-natural-world-facing-largest-mass-extinction-event-dinosaurs">17,000 in 2010
to 42,000 today</a>. By 2040 it may be hundreds of thousands.

 


title: Protesters camping out near Biden's home
uri: Protesters-camping-out-near-Biden-s-home
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Protesters_camping_out_near_Biden's_home)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Protesters_camping_out_near_Biden's_home)

content:
 
<p>

Protesters camping out near Biden's home <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/30/near-presidents-delaware-home-encampment-calls-biden-declare-climate-emergency">call on him to declare a
climate emergency</a>.
<p>
He definitely must do something more.  What, concretely, would a
"climate emergency" do?  Would it have legal consequences (as it did
in British courts), or would it be a no-op?

 


title: "It's a Wonderful Life" related to US politics
uri: It-s-a-Wonderful-Life-related-to-US-politics
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(It's_a_Wonderful_Life_related_to_US_politics)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(It's_a_Wonderful_Life_related_to_US_politics)

content:
 
<p>

Robert Reich <a href="https://robertreich.substack.com/p/wonderful-life">relates the movie It's A Wonderful Life to US politics</a>,
which seems to have been its purpose.

 


title: (satire) Decreasing stigma against homeless
uri: (satire)-Decreasing-stigma-against-homeless
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_((satire)_Decreasing_stigma_against_homeless)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_((satire)_Decreasing_stigma_against_homeless)

content:
 
<p>

(satire) *New Initiative <a href="https://www.theonion.com/new-initiative-decreases-stigma-against-homeless-by-mak-1848194890">Decreases Stigma Against Homeless</a> By Making
Majority Of People Homeless.*
<p>
It would decrease inequality, too.

 


title: Hurricanes striking coasts further north
uri: Hurricanes-striking-coasts-further-north
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Hurricanes_striking_coasts_further_north)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Hurricanes_striking_coasts_further_north)

content:
 
<p>

Global heating will enable hurricanes to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/29/ocean-heating-century-could-create-hurricane-conditions-unseen-3-million-years-study">form, and strike the coast</a>, farther north than they could ever do during the past few centuries.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Fines_against_businesses_fail)
title: Fines against businesses fail
uri: Fines-against-businesses-fail
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Fines_against_businesses_fail)
content:
 
<p>

Fines against businesses fail to deter destruction or poisoning of
natural systems.  We should <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/29/killing-nature-must-be-treated-crime-par-genocide-and-war-crimes">prosecute and imprison the individual
culprits</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Colorado_trucker's_sentence)
title: Colorado trucker's sentence
uri: Colorado-trucker-s-sentence
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Colorado_trucker's_sentence)
content:
 
<p>

*Colorado trucker’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/30/colorado-trucker-given-110-years-has-sentenced-reduced-after-outcry">110-year sentence reduced to 10 years after
 outcry</a>.*
<p>
It is not clear to me that his losing control of the truck deserves to
be punished at all.  He didn't decide to lose control; he tried to
regain control, and failed.
<p>
Is it just to punish people for being the instrument of misfortune?
Does it make society safer?  I don't think so.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Anti-vaxxers_in_the_UK)
title: Anti-vaxxers in the UK
uri: Anti-vaxxers-in-the-UK
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Anti-vaxxers_in_the_UK)
content:
 
<p>

Anti-vaxxers in the UK are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/31/uk-governments-covid-advisers-enduring-tidal-waves-of-abuse">launching harassment and violent threats</a>
against scientists who advise the government about public health, and
their relatives and associates.

 


title: France ban of plastic fruit containers
uri: France-ban-of-plastic-fruit-containers
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(France_ban_of_plastic_fruit_containers)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(France_ban_of_plastic_fruit_containers)

content:
 
<p>

France has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/31/thats-a-wrap-french-plastic-packaging-ban-for-fruit-and-veg-begins">banned selling many fruits and vegetables in a plastic containers</a>.

 


title: Western obituaries for Desmond Tutu
uri: Western-obituaries-for-Desmond-Tutu
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Western_obituaries_for_Desmond_Tutu)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Western_obituaries_for_Desmond_Tutu)

content:
 
<p>

The western obituaries for Desmond Tutu generally don't mention that he
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/31/tutus-courage-israeli-apartheid-played-down-american-media">compared the Israeli occupation of Palestine to the apartheid</a> that he
knew from South Africa.

 


title: Warm winters fatal fatal for UK's endangered species
uri: Warm-winters-fatal-fatal-for-UK-s-endangered-species
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Warm_winters_fatal_fatal_for_UK's_endangered_species)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Warm_winters_fatal_fatal_for_UK's_endangered_species)

content:
 
<p>

*Warm winter <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/31/warm-winter-fatal-for-uk-endangered-species-bats-butterflies-hedgehogs">could prove fatal for UK’s endangered species</a>.*
The warmth causes species to miss out on the relationships that they
need to other species, and thus discoordinates ecosystems.
<p>
If they make it through this year, I doubt they will make it through winter
in 2050.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Uber_drivers_in_San_Francisco)
title: Uber drivers in San Francisco
uri: Uber-drivers-in-San-Francisco
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Uber_drivers_in_San_Francisco)
content:
 
<p>

Many Uber drivers who work in San Francisco can't afford to live there,
so they live in another city and stay in San Francisco for a few days,
sleeping in their cars between work shifts.  <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/dec/31/an-afghan-refugee-commuted-hours-for-his-uber-job-then-he-was-shot-in-his-car">One of them was murdered</a>.
What responsibility does Uber have in the matter? 
<p>
Uber does wrong to all its drivers by paying them so little and by
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#30_June_2021_(Corruption_to_stop_unionizing)">stopping them from organizing a union</a> that can demand better working
conditions. Uber is totally responsible for that.
<p>
They also suffer from the political pressure of many well-off citizens
who demand to <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-jul-oct.html#1_October_2021_(Artificial_limits_on_housing_density)">keep housing density low</a>, even though the result is to
drive millions into poverty. Uber is not responsible for that, but it is responsible for the low pay
and bad working conditions.
<p>
(Don't forget that Uber mistreats its customers too, by <a href="/uber.html">making them identify themselves and run nonfree software</a>.  This is why I refuse ever to be a customer
of Uber &mdash; I won't even get into an Uber car.)
<p>
But is Uber responsible for the murder of one of its drivers?  I don't
see the connection.

 


title: US not cooperating with renouncement of citizenship
uri: US-not-cooperating-with-renouncement-of-citizenship
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(US_not_cooperating_with_renouncement_of_citizenship)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(US_not_cooperating_with_renouncement_of_citizenship)

content:
 
<p>

Many US citizens need to renounce their citizenship &mdash; often to avoid
paying US taxes as well as the taxes of the country they live in,
sometimes in order to become a citizen of that country.  But the US is
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/31/americans-seeking-renounce-citizenship-stuck">not cooperating with the process</a>, and that blocks them all.

 


title: German government eliminated retention of telecommunications metadata
uri: German-government-eliminated-retention-of-telecommunications-metadata
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(German_government_eliminated_retention_of_telecommunications_metadata)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(German_government_eliminated_retention_of_telecommunications_metadata)

content:
 
<p>

The new German government plans to <a href="https://tutanota.com/blog/posts/data-retention-germany/">eliminate retention of telecommunications
metadata</a>, in the absence of a specific reason.

 


title: Recommended isolation time for Delta
uri: Recommended-isolation-time-for-Delta
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Recommended_isolation_time_for_Delta)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Recommended_isolation_time_for_Delta)

content:
 
<p>

Delta has <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/30/after-cdc-change-it-lobbied-delta-slashes-paid-sick-leave-workers-covid">jumped on the CDC's truncation of the recommended isolation
time</a>, and gone even further.
<p>
Some workers will be sick enough that they shouldn't or can't work
after 5 days.  Indeed, some of them may stay sick for weeks.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Flash_fire_near_Denver)
title: Flash fire near Denver
uri: Flash-fire-near-Denver
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Flash_fire_near_Denver)
content:
 
<p>

A flash fire started in a town near Denver and wind quickly <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/31/colorado-wildfires-thousands-evacuate-blazes-destroy-homes">drove it through
580 houses</a>, so fast that firefighters could do nothing to stop it.
<p>
This was partly due to a severe drought.  In 20 years, the area will probably
have an even worse drought.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Secret_Guantanamos_in_Yemen)
title: Secret Guantanamos in Yemen
uri: Secret-Guantanamos-in-Yemen
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Secret_Guantanamos_in_Yemen)
content:
 
<p>

The UAE runs <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/12/31/uae-yemen-prisons-disappeared/">secret Guantanamos in Yemen</a>.  It has disappeared and
tortured hundreds of people.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Photos_without_permission)
title: Photos without permission
uri: Photos-without-permission
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Photos_without_permission)
content:
 
<p>

A campaign seeks to demonize the idea of taking a photo of a woman on
a public street <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/30/citroen-pulls-egypt-ad-accused-of-promoting-harassment-of-women">without asking for her permission first</a>.
As is common, the campaign operates by insisting that its position
is already generally accepted, and only "creeps" would disagree.
<p>
The campaign demands this right only for women and says nothing about
whether men should have it too.  If it stands for gender bias, it is
clearly wrong.
<p>
But what if this right applies equally to everyone, regardless of
gender?  Then it would not be prima facie unjust.  Would it be a
change for the better?
<p>
If this right applies to use of machines that systematically take
photos of everyone, we could insist that people stop their Amazon
"ring" surveillance cameras from taking our pictures as we walk down
the street.  Likewise for <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">other surveillance cameras</a>.
<p>
It would also prohibit "dashcams" mounted on vehicles that
continuously record the scene in front.  These cameras can be a form
of surveillance, and perhaps their use should be regulated, but
prohibiting them entirely seems to be going too far.
<p>
If the <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> that murdered George Floyd had had this right, he could
have ordered the witnesses to stop making video recordings of what he
was doing to Floyd.  <a href="/glossary.html#thug">Thugs</a> would just love to have that power.
Indeed, they often threaten, attack or frame people that record what
they are doing.  In Spain they got the right-wing government to
<a href="https://www.stallman.org/archives/2015-may-aug.html#14_July_2015_(Spain_Government_Goes_Full_Police_State)">criminalize it</a>.
<p>
However, it would be legitimate to exclude <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> from this right -- to
declare that, because of their special legal powers, they are not
entitled to the same rights of privacy that most people deserve.
<p>
However, I cannot willingly give up the right of everyone to take
photos of scenes in public.  Every scene in a city or park is likely
to have people in it, even if they are not the reason you take the
photo.  Probably some are so far that you couldn't possibly ask them
for permission, or recognize them with the naked eye, though may you
could recognize them by scene enhancement on a photo.  There may also
be dozens who are much closer, You could hardly take a photo of a
monument, a building, a sculpture or a cityscape if you had to get
permission from everyone in the scene.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Wrecker's_head_of_the_FDIC)
title: Wrecker's head of the FDIC
uri: Wrecker-s-head-of-the-FDIC
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Wrecker's_head_of_the_FDIC)
content:
 
<p>

The resignation of the wrecker's head of the FDIC will enable the organization
to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/31/victory-democracy-and-blow-trumpism-fdic-chair-resigns">limit mergers between big banks</a>.

 


title: (satire) Diamond-Encrusted Trepanation Drill
uri: (satire)-Diamond-Encrusted-Trepanation-Drill
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_((satire)_Diamond-Encrusted_Trepanation_Drill)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_((satire)_Diamond-Encrusted_Trepanation_Drill)

content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Gwyneth Paltrow Touts New <a href="https://www.theonion.com/gwyneth-paltrow-touts-new-diamond-encrusted-trepanation-1848253669">Diamond-Encrusted Trepanation
Drill</a>, Drainage Bucket On Website.*

 


title: (satire) Post-apocalypse music box
uri: (satire)-Post-apocalypse-music-box
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_((satire)_Post-apocalypse_music_box)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_((satire)_Post-apocalypse_music_box)

content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Artist Crafting Music Box Hopes It <a href="https://www.theonion.com/artist-crafting-music-box-hopes-it-delights-at-least-on-1848196641">Delights At Least One
Child</a> In Post-Apocalypse.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(German_nuclear_power_plants)
title: German nuclear power plants
uri: German-nuclear-power-plants
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(German_nuclear_power_plants)
content:
 
<p>

Germany will shut down three nuclear power plants and <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/31/germany-one-step-closer-nuclear-free-future-three-six-power-plants-go-offline">replace them with
renewable generation</a>.
<p>
This is good, but it should also replace a substantial amount of
fossil fuel consumption with renewable generation at the same time, so
it can tell Putin "buzz off".

 


title: UK's National Health Service run by former bankers
uri: UK-s-National-Health-Service-run-by-former-bankers
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(UK's_National_Health_Service_run_by_former_bankers)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(UK's_National_Health_Service_run_by_former_bankers)

content:
 
<p>

*Why Is the UK's National Health Service Being <a href="https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2021/12/why-is-the-uks-national-health-service-being-run-by-former-investment-bankers.html">Run by Former Bankers</a>?*
<p>
There's no one like a banker for screwing non-rich people
and redirecting funds to the rich.
<p>
The Tories have been bleeding the NHS for a decade, and it's almost
ready to fall down dead.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Mother_Teresa_charity)
title: Mother Teresa charity
uri: Mother-Teresa-charity
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Mother_Teresa_charity)
content:
 
<p>

*India <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2021/dec/28/india-bans-mother-teresa-charity-from-receiving-funds-from-abroad">bans Mother Teresa charity from receiving funds from abroad</a>.*
 This is probably a part of the increasing <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2017-jan-apr.html#22_January_2017_(Religious_persecution_in_India)">repression of Christians</a>.
<p>
Let's not presume that Mother Teresa set a standard of goodness.
I read that her organization didn't bother to offer medical treatment
to dying poor people &mdash; it gave them only "spiritual" aid.
<p>
However, any government that lays charges of "hurting religious
sentiments of <em>believers in XYZ religion</em>" is viciously repressive,
regardless of which religion XYZ is, or what else may be good or bad
about those who are accused.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Coast_protection_measures)
title: Coast protection measures
uri: Coast-protection-measures
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(Coast_protection_measures)
content:
 
<p>

All <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/01/sands-slip-england-crumbling-coasts-erosion-rising-sea-levels">coast protection measures are temporary</a>.  Eventually the sea
overwhelms them &mdash; and projected sea-level rise keeps rising.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(New_Covid-19_cases_in_the_US)
title: New Covid-19 cases in the US
uri: New-Covid-19-cases-in-the-US
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#2_January_2022_(New_Covid-19_cases_in_the_US)
content:
 
<p>

With the US having more than half a new million cases of Covid-19 each
day, US officials are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/01/us-covid-case-counts-omicron">starting to think it doesn't matter how many
new cases there are</a>.
<p>
What I would like to know is, what fraction of people in my city or my
neighborhood are contagious now.  You can roughly estimate that from
the rate of new cases.

 


title: Warm winters fatal for UK's endangered species
uri: Warm-winters-fatal-for-UK-s-endangered-species
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Warm_winters_fatal_for_UK's_endangered_species)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Warm_winters_fatal_for_UK's_endangered_species)

content:
 
<p>

*Warm winter <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2021/dec/31/warm-winter-fatal-for-uk-endangered-species-bats-butterflies-hedgehogs">could prove fatal for UK’s endangered species</a>.*
The warmth causes species to miss out on the relationships that they
need to other species, and thus discoordinates ecosystems.
<p>
If they make it through this year, I doubt they will make it through winter
in 2050.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Tongan_fisheries_observer)
title: Tongan fisheries observer
uri: Tongan-fisheries-observer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Tongan_fisheries_observer)
content:
 
<p>
China and Tonga are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/04/its-a-mystery-for-us-the-puzzling-death-at-sea-of-a-tongan-fisheries-observer">covering up the cause of death of a "fisheries observer"</a>
whose job was to verify that a Chinese fishing boat did not catch more than
its allowed limit of fish.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Brazil_greenhouse_gas_emissions)
title: Brazil greenhouse gas emissions
uri: Brazil-greenhouse-gas-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Brazil_greenhouse_gas_emissions)
content:
 
<p>
*Destruction of trees, grasses and other plants in world's largest
savanna is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/03/brazil-deforestation-cerrado-scientists-alarm">a major source of Brazil’s greenhouse gas emissions</a>.*
This adds to the emissions of destroying the Amazon forest.
<p>
Brazil under Bolsonaro has <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#20_April_2021_(Deforestation_in_Brazil)">hardly tried to enforce its laws against
deforestation</a>.  He has stated contempt for the goal.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Nuclear_war_cannot_be_won)
title: Nuclear war cannot be won
uri: Nuclear-war-cannot-be-won
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Nuclear_war_cannot_be_won)
content:
 
<p>
*US, Russia, China, the UK and France who are permanent members of the
UN security council agree "<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/03/five-nations-pledge-avoid-nuclear-war">nuclear war cannot be won</a>".*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Schumer)
title: Schumer
uri: Schumer
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Schumer)
content:
 
<p>
Schumer will lead an attempt to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/03/schumer-senate-democracy-voting-rights-election">set aside the filibuster and pass voting
rights reform</a>.
<p>
This is a wave of public pressure aimed at Manchin and Sinema.
I hope it succeeds.
<p>
The right-wing majority on the Supreme Court is likely to override anything
that interferes with Republican efforts to rig the next election.
I believe that replacing that majority needs to go with voting rights laws.

 


title: Prosecutors going easy on fascists
uri: Prosecutors-going-easy-on-fascists
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Prosecutors_going_easy_on_fascists)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Prosecutors_going_easy_on_fascists)

content:
 
<p>
US prosecutors <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/03/capitol-riot-january-6-proud-boys-fbi/">go easier on violent fascists than on relatives of
violent Islamist</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Land_to_protect_for_wildlife)
title: Land to protect for wildlife
uri: Land-to-protect-for-wildlife
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Land_to_protect_for_wildlife)
content:
 
<p>
Some indigenous groups in the US accept <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/03/original-caretakers-indigenous-groups-team-up-with-conservationists-to-protect-swaths-of-us">gifts of land to protect for
wildlife</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Yemeni_rebels_seize_UAE_ship)
title: Yemeni rebels seize UAE ship
uri: Yemeni-rebels-seize-UAE-ship
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Yemeni_rebels_seize_UAE_ship)
content:
 
<p>
  Houthis <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/03/yemeni-rebels-seize-uae-ship-in-red-sea-after-upsurge-in-violence">seized a UAE freighter in the Red Sea off Yemen</a>.
<p>
I don't see any reason to be shocked at this.  Salafi Arabia and the UAE
are allies of the US, but <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#2_March_2021_(No_personal_sanctions_on_Prince_Bone_Saw)">hardly deserve our moral support -- and they started
the war by invading Yemen</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(UK_police_state)
title: UK police state
uri: UK-police-state
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(UK_police_state)
content:
 
<p>
*The UK is in danger of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/03/uk-police-state-democracy-insulate-britain-conservatives-crime-bill">becoming a police state cosplaying as a democracy</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Eric_Adams)
title: Eric Adams
uri: Eric-Adams
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Eric_Adams)
content:
 
<p>
The new mayor of New York City plans to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/03/eric-adams-new-york-mayor-progressive-politics">hold more defendants in jail
before trial, and start keeping them in inhumane solitary confinement</a>.
<p>
Some fear he is going to support real estate developers rather than
try to house the many homeless people of the city.  I worry about this
too.  However, I think it is acceptable to house people in hotel rooms
even if that isn't entirely in accord with residential rules.
That is better than being on the street.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Gas_and_nuclear_labeled_green)
title: Gas and nuclear labeled green
uri: Gas-and-nuclear-labeled-green
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Gas_and_nuclear_labeled_green)
content:
 
<p>
*Fury as EU moves ahead with <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/03/fury-eu-moves-ahead-plans-label-gas-nuclear-green">plans to label gas and nuclear as "green."</a>*
<p>
I am surprised the planet roasters dare to be so blatant as to continue
pushing the "bridge fuel" excuse.
<p>
Nuclear power is a somewhat different idea.  Nuclear power does not
release greenhouse gases.  But it is so expensive that whatever we
spend on that will hold back decarbonization.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Aducanumab)
title: Aducanumab
uri: Aducanumab
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Aducanumab)
content:
 
<p>
The FDA approved the drug <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#30_June_2021_(Questionable_Alzheimers_Drug)">aducanumab despite having no solid evidence
that it does what it claims to do</a>.
Now Medicade is considering whether to
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/01/doctors-urge-medicare-deny-coverage-alzheimers-drug-unproven-efficacy-and-safety">cover the drug at an exorbitant price</a>.  If it does, every person with
Medicare drug coverage would face considerable additional cost.
<p>
If Medicare could negotiate a price to buy this drug in bulk, it might
get a reasonable price.  <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#10_November_2021(Drug_pricing_manchin_sinema)">It can't do so because of a law passed by
plutocratistic officials</a>.
<p>
However, giving millions of people a drug on the grounds that it
<em>might</em> prevent a disease for some of them seems like getting ahead of
the game.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Sudan_Prime_Minister_resigns)
title: Sudan Prime Minister resigns
uri: Sudan-Prime-Minister-resigns
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Sudan_Prime_Minister_resigns)
content:
 
<p>
*Sudan's prime minister <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/02/sudans-prime-minister-resigns-as-pro-democracy-protests-violently-repressed">resigns as pro-democracy protests violently repressed</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Intimidation_for_opinions)
title: Intimidation for opinions
uri: Intimidation-for-opinions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Intimidation_for_opinions)
content:
 
<p>
UK thugs tried to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/02/policing-sex-and-gender-debate-worrying-freedom-of-expression">intimidate a person for expressing opinions that some
might find offensive</a>.
<p>
It is proper to record any expression of racist ideas _by cops_,
because cops have a privileged legal status and a duty to protect all
people regardless of their race.  A racist cop is doing the job wrong.
<p>
But this practice must not be extended to people with no special
state-granted authority.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Lula)
title: Lula
uri: 2022-01-04-Lula
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Lula)
content:
 
<p>
Since the judge Sergio Moro was caught in collusion, <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/02/lula-brazil-2022-election-sergio-moro/">Lula is now free
and untainted, and polls suggest he will return as president in the
election this year</a>.
<p>
Hooray for Lula!

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Oxfam)
title: Oxfam
uri: Oxfam
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Oxfam)
content:
 
<p>
India has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/02/oxfam-says-its-work-in-india-is-imperilled-by-ban-on-foreign-funding">cut off foreign donations to Oxfam India</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Tyler_Stovall)
title: Tyler Stovall
uri: Tyler-Stovall
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Tyler_Stovall)
content:
 
<p>
Reviewing <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/02/race-class-freedom-liberty-and-work-of-historian-tyler-stovall">Tyler Stovall's work on the history of the concepts of
freedom and race</a>.
<p>
Nowadays, the conflict between "property above all" and "liberty above
all" still exists, but I doubt anyone who advocates racism can manage
to think seriously about the meaning of liberty.  Spewing foolish
slogans would be their choice today.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Blackberry_phone_servers)
title: Blackberry phone servers
uri: Blackberry-phone-servers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Blackberry_phone_servers)
content:
 
<p>
The legacy company that made Blackberry phones is about to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/01/tech/blackberry-end-of-life/index.html">kill them off
by shutting down the server they are tethered to</a>.
<p>
Since few of those phones remain in use, I think it is legitimate to
want to save money by not running a server for them.  However, it is
not right to stop people from modifying the phones' software so they
can talk to some other server -- or modifying the Blackberry server code
to give them something else to talk to.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(afghan_economy_us_sanctions)
title: Afghanistan's economic collapse
uri: Afghanistan-s-economic-collapse
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(afghan_economy_us_sanctions)
content:
 
<p>*Humanitarian Exemptions to Crushing U.S. Sanctions 
<a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/12/28/afghanistan-economy-collapse-us-sanctions"/>Do Little to
 Prevent Collapse of Afghanistan’s Economy.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(dating_apps_sick_world)
title: Dating application's strange isolated experience
uri: Dating-application-s-strange-isolated-experience
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(dating_apps_sick_world)
content:
 
<p>
 Dating apps have created a sick world in which people are mortified by
the idea of going out with 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/28/dating-apps-sexual-revolution-single-people"> anyone they have friends in common with.</a>
<p>
When asking for a date with someone you barely know, and have no
social relationships in common with, whatever you say will inevitably
be strained.  You'll be publicly shamed for that -- but it's
unreasonable to demand anything else under those circumstances,
<p>
Besides which, you're probably dealing with a user of Facebook, who
has learned to think of life as an image to be "curated" rather than a
reality.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Big_pharma_price_increase)
title: Big pharma's price increases
uri: Big-pharma-s-price-increases
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Big_pharma_price_increase)
content:
 
<p>Big Pharma raised the price of 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/03/enough-enough-outrage-big-pharma-hikes-prices-442-drugs"/>440 drugs at the start of the year.</a>
<p>
The companies were making big profits already, but they saw the
opportunity to make even more, because of 
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2021/12/21/whats-driving-higher-prices-unchecked-corporate-power">the lack of competition.
Partly (for the generic drugs) that is caused by failure to block
mergers.</a>
<p>
Partly it's because of too much patent power.  The power of patent holders has been increased in many ways, when companies argue, "If we don't make even more profits than now, we won't have enough incentive to bother."
<p>
I advocate 
<a href="media/1dcfd209.45_1_stallman.pdf" data-original-source="https://www.luc.edu/media/lucedu/law/students/publications/llj/pdfs/45_1_stallman.pdf">abolishing patents entirely.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Canadian_academic_warns)
title: Academic warns of violent conflict
uri: Academic-warns-of-violent-conflict
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Canadian_academic_warns)
content:
 
<p>A Canadian academic who studies violent conflict warns that Canada may
soon
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/03/calling-trump-just-warm-act-professor-warns-democratic-collapse-us">have to deal with a large and powerful fascist neighbor.</a>


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Save_local_newspaper)
title: Systems proposed to subsidize local newspapers
uri: Systems-proposed-to-subsidize-local-newspapers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Save_local_newspaper)
content:
 
<p>Comparing two proposed 
<a href="https://cepr.net/plans-to-save-the-local-newspaper/">systems to subsidize local newspapers.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Damaged_fukushima_reactors)
title: Fukushima reactors cleanup looks doubtful
uri: Fukushima-reactors-cleanup-looks-doubtful
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Damaged_fukushima_reactors)
content:
 
<p>The decommissioning of the damaged Fukushima reactors 
<a href="https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14503708">was planned for 30 years,
but it is running into problems.</a>
<p>
By 2040, global heating disasters may undermine the ability to
continue the cleanup.  The site may be abandoned in whatever state it
is in, and containment of wastes on the site may crumble.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Sudan_protest_anti_coup)
title: Sudanese Prime Minister has resigned
uri: Sudanese-Prime-Minister-has-resigned
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Sudan_protest_anti_coup)
content:
 
<p>
Sudan's premier has resigned 
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/02/world/sudan-protest-killed-anti-coup-security-forces/index.html">in order to avoid legitimizing military rule.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Capitol_attack_panel)
title: Trump allies seek to run out clock
uri: Trump-allies-seek-to-run-out-clock
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Capitol_attack_panel)
content:
 
<p>
*Capitol attack panel in race against time as 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/04/capitol-attack-panel-race-against-time">Trump allies seek to run
out clock.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Biden_insulin_price)
title: Proposed limit on price of insulin doesn't help
uri: Proposed-limit-on-price-of-insulin-doesn-t-help
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(Biden_insulin_price)
content:
 
<p>Biden's proposed limit on the price of insulin 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/04/insulin-copay-biden-build-back-better">doesn't help everyone
that needs to take insulin.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(male_surgeon_study)
title: Outcomes from male surgeon study
uri: Outcomes-from-male-surgeon-study
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(male_surgeon_study)
content:
 
<p>
In the UK, female patients have worse <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/04/women-more-likely-die-operation-male-surgeon-study">outcomes from surgery when the
surgeon is male.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(covid_china_toll)
title: The toll of reporting on Covid in China
uri: The-toll-of-reporting-on-Covid-in-China
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(covid_china_toll)
content:
 
<p>
*Detained, missing, close to death: the toll of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/04/detained-missing-close-to-death-toll-reporting-covid-china">reporting on Covid in China.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(peaceful_protest_newsworthy)
title: Peaceful protests should be newsworthy
uri: Peaceful-protests-should-be-newsworthy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#5_January_2022_(peaceful_protest_newsworthy)
content:
 
<p>Protesters are compelled to cause some sort of disruption
because the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/04/peaceful-protest-should-be-newsworthy-too"> mainstream media have learned to ignore other forms of protest.</a>




 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(threat_far_right_militia)
title: Government taking threat of far-right militias seriously
uri: Government-taking-threat-of-far-right-militias-seriously
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(threat_far_right_militia)
content:
 
<p>
*The government is finally taking the threat of far-right militia groups
seriously. 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/05/capitol-attack-january-6-democracy-america-trump">But the larger threat are the Republican legislators who
continue to recklessly undermine democracy.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Biden_manchin_bbb)
title: Biden needs to stand up to Manchin
uri: Biden-needs-to-stand-up-to-Manchin
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Biden_manchin_bbb)
content:
 
<p>
*Joe Biden needs to stand up and 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/05/joe-biden-manchin-build-back-better">fight Manchin like our lives depend on it.</a>*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Murray_prison_saughton)
title: Murray explains the details of the prison he is in
uri: Murray-explains-the-details-of-the-prison-he-is-in
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Murray_prison_saughton)
content:
 
<p>
Craig Murray explains the peculiar physical and social characteristics
of the 
<a href="https://www.craigmurray.org.uk/archives/2022/01/your-man-in-saughton-jail-part-1/">prison he is in, and the causes of them.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Saudi_arabia_deported_tigrayans)
title: Thousands of Tigrayans deported by Saudi Arabia
uri: Thousands-of-Tigrayans-deported-by-Saudi-Arabia
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Saudi_arabia_deported_tigrayans)
content:
 
<p>
Saudi Arabia has deported thousands of Tigrayans to Ethiopia, 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/05/tigrayans-abused-deported-by-saudis-forcibly-disappeared-in-ethiopia-human-rights-watch-report">where
the government imprisons them incommunicado.</a>

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Vaccine_taking_part_society)
title: Vaccination as the price for taking part in society
uri: Vaccination-as-the-price-for-taking-part-in-society
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Vaccine_taking_part_society)
content:
 
<p>
*Vaccination as the 
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/05/vaccination-as-the-price-for-taking-part-in-society">price for taking part in society.</a>*
<p>
I think the word "price" is not quite right here, because it implies
that society could arbitrarily decide what "price" to charge.  I think
that the role of vaccination in the situation is that of a
self-evident prerequisite.

 


title: Urgent: Include billionaire income tax in Build Back Better bill.
uri: Urgent-Include-billionaire-income-tax-in-Build-Back-Better-bill
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Urgent:_Include_billionaire_income_tax_in_Build_Back_Better_bill.)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Urgent:_Include_billionaire_income_tax_in_Build_Back_Better_bill.)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on the Senate to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/demand-the-us-senate-tax-billionaire-wealth-by-including-the-billionaires-income-tax-in-the-build-back-better-act">include the billionaire income tax</a>
in the Build Back Better bill.

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

 


title: Australia's medical system collapsing
uri: Australia-s-medical-system-collapsing
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Australia's_medical_system_collapsing)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Australia's_medical_system_collapsing)

content:
 
<p>

Australia's medical system is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/05/the-foundations-of-our-healthcare-system-have-been-washed-away">collapsing under the assault of Covid-19</a>.

The government did not prepare for what would happen.

 


title: Reducing greenhouse-generating practices
uri: Reducing-greenhouse-generating-practices
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Reducing_greenhouse-generating_practices)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Reducing_greenhouse-generating_practices)

content:
 
<p>

How leading the public to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/03/shifting-wasteful-consumption">reduce greenhouse-generating practices</a> is
related to changing the social systems that pressure or compel people
to do those things.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Talon_Anvil)
title: Talon Anvil
uri: Talon-Anvil
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Talon_Anvil)
content:
 
<p>

A secret US bomb targeting unit, "Talon Anvil," systematically <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/12/us/civilian-deaths-war-isis.html">twisted
or disregarded the official targeting rules</a> that were designed to
protect civilians in the war against PISSI.
The result was to kill a lot of civilians.
<p>
The personnel in the unit went so far as to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2021/12/13/stomach-wrenching-report-reveals-secret-us-strike-commands-high-civilian-death-toll">discourage taking reconnaissance photos after a bombing</a>, as a cover-up.
<p>
There is no military reason today to keep any of this secret; however,
the general resistance to releasing any military secrets is an
excellent shield against prosecuting anyone or learning anything.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Smashing_7,000_stores)
title: Smashing 7,000 stores
uri: Smashing-7-000-stores
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Smashing_7,000_stores)
content:
 
<p>

Bangladesh's campaign of hatred against Rohingya has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/05/thousands-of-rohingya-shops-demolished-in-bangladesh-leaving-refugees-desperate">extended to
smashing 7,000 stores</a> set up where they have settled.
<p>
Considering this in human terms, it is reprehensible hatred.
<p>
Considering this in a longer term, the vice made of global heating and
population growth is squeezing Bangladesh.  Unless we shut them off,
their pressure will, I expect, crush tens of millions to death.  Some
of them will die having given up, but some will die in fights over who
will, and who won't, survive till the next day.
<p>
Not that I see anything unusual about Bangladeshis and Rohingya.  On
the contrary, this is what I expect to see everywhere, sooner or
later.

 


title: (satire) Secret underground tunnels
uri: (satire)-Secret-underground-tunnels
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_((satire)_Secret_underground_tunnels)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_((satire)_Secret_underground_tunnels)

content:
 
<p>

(satire) *City Announces <a href="https://www.theonion.com/city-announces-construction-of-20-new-miles-of-secret-u-1848254045">Construction Of 20 New Miles Of Secret
Underground Tunnels</a> For Vloggers To Explore.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(The_other_drone_casualties)
title: The other drone casualties
uri: The-other-drone-casualties
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(The_other_drone_casualties)
content:
 
<p>

*The Other Drone Casualties: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/04/other-drone-casualties-whistleblowers-who-tried-stop-it">The Whistleblowers Who Tried to Stop It</a>.*
<p>
After a decade of killing civilians by drone, and covering up the
facts and the causes, the only person in prison for this is
whistleblower Daniel Hale, who exposed it.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Reporting_on_death_of_Harry_Reid)
title: Reporting on death of Harry Reid
uri: Reporting-on-death-of-Harry-Reid
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Reporting_on_death_of_Harry_Reid)
content:
 
<p>

The reporting on the death of Senator Harry Reid should not fail to note
that <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/04/harry-reids-disastrous-foreign-policy-record-should-not-be-forgotten">he pushed hard for the conquest and occupation of Iraq</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(NYC_bank_staff)
title: NYC bank staff
uri: NYC-bank-staff
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(NYC_bank_staff)
content:
 
<p>

Mayor Adams of NYC <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/04/economy/eric-adams-covid-banks/index.html">implored banks to make their staff work in their
offices, and risk infection</a>, so that they will pay for services like
transport, food, and more.
<p>
The wise thing to do is what the UK did a year ago: give companies
money to pay the salaries of workers whose work was temporarily not
necessary. This saves the workers and the employers from financial disaster without
making anyone take unnecessary medical risks.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Sore-losers_to_violent_terrorists)
title: Sore-losers to violent terrorists
uri: Sore-losers-to-violent-terrorists
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Sore-losers_to_violent_terrorists)
content:
 
<p>

*From Sore-Losers to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/04/sore-losers-violent-terrorists">Violent Terrorists</a>?*
Republicans now place Americans in physical danger by threatening to kill
rather than accept they lost.

 


title: Subsidies to independent meat-processing companies
uri: Subsidies-to-independent-meat-processing-companies
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Subsidies_to_independent_meat-processing_companies)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Subsidies_to_independent_meat-processing_companies)

content:
 
<p>

Biden is moving to provide <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/04/house-progressives-hail-biden-moves-combat-meat-industry-price-gouging">federal subsidies to independent
meat-processing companies</a>.  This is to reduce the power of the big
four companies.
<p>
I agree with that goal, but this method is the expensive way, because
it is based on exerting the influence of added government spending.
It would be more efficient to break up the big four companies,
or <a href="https://stallman.org/articles/progressive-tax-on-business-gross-income.html">pressure them with taxes</a>.
<p>
Meanwhile, reducing the retail price of meat would have a harmful effect:
encouraging more production of meat &mdash; bad for people who eat too much meat,
and bad for the climate.  It would be better to add a tax, so that the
reduction in big four income goes into things that are better for society.

 


title: Donations to coup-supporting Republicans
uri: Donations-to-coup-supporting-Republicans
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Donations_to_coup-supporting_Republicans)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Donations_to_coup-supporting_Republicans)

content:
 
<p>

Chevron, ExxonMobil, Merck, Pfizer, FedEx and UPS are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/03/major-corporations-have-broken-promises-and-funded-seditionists-jan-6-reports-reveal">donating to
coup-supporting Republicans in Congress</a>.  Other companies and trade
organizations, too.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Possible_cause_of_long_covid)
title: Possible cause of long covid
uri: Possible-cause-of-long-covid
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Possible_cause_of_long_covid)
content:
 
<p>

Long Covid <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/05/long-covid-research-microclots">may be caused by microclots</a>.  Medicine to dissolve them
may help some patients.

 


title: Edward Colston statue topplers acquitted
uri: Edward-Colston-statue-topplers-acquitted
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Edward_Colston_statue_topplers_acquitted)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Edward_Colston_statue_topplers_acquitted)

content:
 
<p>

The protesters who toppled the statue of Edward Colston have been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/05/four-cleared-of-toppling-edward-colston-statute">acquitted
of criminal charges</a> for doing so.
<p>
I support the removal of Colston's statue.  Slave trading was the most
impactful thing he did in his life; his local philanthropy, using part
of the profit he got from slave trading, cannot compensate for the
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2017-may-aug.html#16_August_2017_(Urgent:_Pressure_officials_to_remove_statues)">wrong of the slave trading itself</a>.
<p>
Many other famous people are similar cases and we could well reach the
same conclusions about them.  They include Bill Gates and Steve Jobs,
whose main "contribution" to the world was software that subjugates
users.
<p>
But there are also cases where the balance goes the other way: people
who did important good that is worth commemorating, but also
participated in some widespread practice or widespread view that we
condemn today.  How should we judge them?  I think we should weigh the
importance of the good and the bad they did, and commemorate them on
that basis.  For instance, Thomas Jefferson gave crucial impetus to
separation of church and state &mdash; a vital liberty now under threat in
the US.  He also owned slaves, but he was not a champion of slavery.
We must commemorate
<p>
What about when the balance seems roughly equal, as in the case of
Woodrow Wilson?  I <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-jul-oct.html#6_July_2020_(Woodrow_Wilson)">suggested a statue</a> which shows him with two sides,
the good side and the evil side.
<p>
The Tories want to punish the toppling of a statue with <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/2022/jan/06/colston-four-acquittal-raises-doubts-about-10-year-jail-term-proposal">10 years in
prison</a>.  This is draconian when compared with the small physical
damage that usually results.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Emissions_trading)
title: Emissions trading
uri: 2022-01-07-Emissions-trading
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Emissions_trading)
content:
 
<p>

California's system of emissions trading is having <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/05/californias-cap-and-trade-system-proves-limits-market-based-climate-action">much less than the
predicted effect</a>.
<p>
This example illustrates why the emissions-trading approach is
inadequate, which is also why fossil fuel businesses prefer it to
other, more effective approaches.  If they can't deny the danger, and
they can't delay countermeasures, their next effort is to arrange
countermeasures into less effective approaches.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(OSHA_Covid-19_safety_standard)
title: OSHA Covid-19 safety standard
uri: OSHA-Covid-19-safety-standard
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(OSHA_Covid-19_safety_standard)
content:
 
<p>

*AFL-CIO, Nurses Unions <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/05/afl-cio-nurses-unions-demand-permanent-osha-covid-19-safety-standard">Demand Permanent OSHA Covid-19 Safety Standard</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Section_3_of_the_14th_amendment)
title: Section 3 of the 14th amendment
uri: Section-3-of-the-14th-amendment
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Section_3_of_the_14th_amendment)
content:
 
<p>

*Section 3 of the 14th amendment disqualifies from public office any
individual who has taken an oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution and
then engages in insurrection or rebellion against the United States,
or gives aid or comfort to those who have,*
<p>
Thus, state election officials have the duty to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/05/campaign-aims-bar-all-jan-6-insurrectionists-including-trump-future-public-office">exclude candidates who
have done that</a>.
<p>
We can't expect Republican officials to do their duty &mdash; so what is plan B?

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Cause_of_canceled_flights)
title: Cause of canceled flights
uri: Cause-of-canceled-flights
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Cause_of_canceled_flights)
content:
 
<p>

US airlines dismissed thousands of employees this fall.  When they had
to cancel a lot of flights in the past couple of weeks, that's <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/05/business/holiday-flight-cancellations-blame/index.html">part of
the cause</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Data_privacy_law)
title: Data privacy law
uri: Data-privacy-law
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Data_privacy_law)
content:
 
<p>

*Congress Could <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/04/congress-could-help-prevent-another-jan-6-data-privacy-law-say-campaigners">Help Prevent Another Jan. 6 With Data Privacy Law</a>, Say
Campaigners.*
<p>
It could stop Facebook from magnifying disinformation.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Fear_of_Democracy_working)
title: Fear of Democracy working
uri: Fear-of-Democracy-working
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Fear_of_Democracy_working)
content:
 
<p>

*McConnell Openly Admits His Very Real Fear Is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/04/mcconnell-openly-admits-his-very-real-fear-american-democracy-actually-working">American Democracy Actually
Working</a>.*

 


title: Hisham Abu Hawash Ends Hunger Strike
uri: Hisham-Abu-Hawash-Ends-Hunger-Strike
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Hisham_Abu_Hawash_Ends_Hunger_Strike)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#6_January_2022_(Hisham_Abu_Hawash_Ends_Hunger_Strike)

content:
 
<p>

*Palestinian Prisoner Hisham Abu Hawash <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/04/palestinian-prisoner-hisham-abu-hawash-ends-hunger-strike-after-deal-israel">Ends Hunger Strike</a> After Deal With
Israel* to end his imprisonment without trial.
<p>
Imprisonment without trial is vicious and vile, whether it is done by
Israel, China, the US, or any other country.

 


title: Labor protections for uber drivers
uri: Labor-protections-for-uber-drivers
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Labor_protections_for_uber_drivers)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Labor_protections_for_uber_drivers)

content:
 
<p>
*Uber CEO Admits <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/07/uber-drivers-labor-protections-dara-khosrowshahi-european-union/">Company Can Afford Labor Protections for Drivers</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Stop_and_search)
title: Stop and search
uri: 2022-01-08-Stop-and-search
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Stop_and_search)
content:
 
<p>
*I'm a [British] police officer, and I fear <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/07/police-officer-stop-and-search-powers-public-trust">increased powers of stop
and search will undermine public trust</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(High_temperature_records_beat)
title: High temperature records beat
uri: High-temperature-records-beat
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(High_temperature_records_beat)
content:
 
<p>
  *More than 400 weather stations around the world <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/07/heat-records-broken-all-around-the-world-in-2021-says-climatologist">beat their all-time
  highest temperature records in 2021</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(History_of_blacks_in_Britain)
title: History of blacks in Britain
uri: History-of-blacks-in-Britain
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(History_of_blacks_in_Britain)
content:
 
<p>
A new collection of lessons about the history of blacks in Britain is
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/07/ive-felt-quite-proud-the-diverse-curriculum-inspiring-school-pupils">designed to be sprinkled into the rest of the curriculum</a>, like an
added ingredient.

 


title: Pakistan's first female judge nominated
uri: Pakistan-s-first-female-judge-nominated
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Pakistan's_first_female_judge_nominated)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Pakistan's_first_female_judge_nominated)

content:
 
<p>
*First female judge <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/07/first-female-judge-nominated-for-pakistans-supreme-court">nominated for Pakistan’s supreme court</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Federal_flood_insurance)
title: Federal flood insurance
uri: Federal-flood-insurance
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Federal_flood_insurance)
content:
 
<p>
  A demand for reform of US federal flood insurance is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/07/flood-survivors-congress-overhaul-insurance-policy">a model of
  wisdom in that it considers the well-being of society as well as
  that of people whose homes have been flooded</a>.
  It calls for measures that will do good in the long term --
  to warn about housing in flood plains, and move housing to safer,
  higher ground.

 


title: China's top facial recognition firm sanctioned
uri: China-s-top-facial-recognition-firm-sanctioned
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(China's_top_facial_recognition_firm_sanctioned)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(China's_top_facial_recognition_firm_sanctioned)

content:
 
<p>
  *US <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/06/china-sensetime-facial-recognition-uyghur-surveillance-us-sanctions">sanctioned China's top facial recognition firm over Uyghur concerns</a>.*
<p>
  Punishing companies that participate in repression in China is the
  right thing to do -- but even more important is to restrict face
  recognition in the US.  And restrict <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">systematic capture of face images,
  which is the basis of face tracking surveillance</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Assault_on_American_democracy)
title: Assault on American democracy
uri: Assault-on-American-democracy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Assault_on_American_democracy)
content:
 
<p>
*Assault on American democracy has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/07/assault-on-american-democracy-has-gained-pace-since-us-capitol-attack">gained pace since US Capitol
 attack* (a year ago)</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Monsanto_proprietary_software)
title: Monsanto proprietary software
uri: Monsanto-proprietary-software
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Monsanto_proprietary_software)
content:
 
<p>
Monsanto developed some proprietary software to collect and analyze
farmers' data about their own farms.  I expect this would be used as
part of a system which, by its design, would subject farmers to Monsanto's power.
<p>
A researcher who is a Chinese citizen and worked with Monsanto took a
copy of this program <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/07/china-scientist-pleads-guilty-to-stealing-trade-secret-from-monsanto">with the intention to send it to some
organization in China</a>, that would very likely use it in a way that
subjects farmers in China, and maybe elsewhere, to that organization's
power.
<p>
We should not get distracted by focusing on Monsanto's interests.
Nonfree software is the wrong solution for any computing need.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(High_Arctic)
title: High Arctic
uri: High-Arctic
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(High_Arctic)
content:
 
<p>
  Lightning, and thunderstorms, are <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/05/world/lightning-increased-north-pole-arctic-2021-climate/index.html">increasing substantially in the high
  Arctic, a reflection of global heating</a>.
<p>
  Lightning is also increasing in parts of North America, and that tends
  to increase the amount of wildfire in the areas that are also becoming
  increasingly arid.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Google_intimidation)
title: Google intimidation
uri: Google-intimidation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Google_intimidation)
content:
 
<p>
  Google is trying to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/05/warren-jayapal-demand-google-stop-trying-bully-doj-antitrust-official">intimidate the newly appointed head of the FTC's
  antitrust division</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Kazakhstan_fighting)
title: Kazakhstan fighting
uri: Kazakhstan-fighting
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Kazakhstan_fighting)
content:
 
<p>
  Fighting has broken out in Almaty, Kazakhstan, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/06/asia/kazakhstan-fuel-protests-thursday-intl/index.html">between opposition and
  government suppression forces supported by Russian troops</a>.
  Both sides have become quite violent.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Sensibilities_of_some_people)
title: Sensibilities of some people
uri: Sensibilities-of-some-people
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Sensibilities_of_some_people)
content:
 
<p>
  Some Tories demand to impose much higher penalties for <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/06/minister-grant-shapps-crackdown-court-colston-four-statue">pulling down a
  statue, or even a wreath, on the ground that the act offends the
  sensibilities of some people</a>.
<p>
  If the main significance of an act is how it offends someone's
  sensibilities, that means it should be treated as an expression of an
  idea, rather than anything else.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Burundi's_first_prime_minister)
title: Burundi's first prime minister
uri: Burundi-s-first-prime-minister
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Burundi's_first_prime_minister)
content:
 
<p>
  Archival documents show that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/05/new-evidence-of-belgian-complicity-in-1961-killing-of-burundian-pm">Belgium arranged the murder of Burundi's first
  prime minister, in 1961.
<p>
  A Belgian state investigation confirmed this in 1962, but the state
  concealed it.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Climate-related_ads)
title: Climate-related ads
uri: Climate-related-ads
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Climate-related_ads)
content:
 
<p>
*One in five ads served on search results for 78 climate-related terms
   <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/jan/05/fossil-fuel-firms-among-biggest-spenders-on-google-ads-that-look-like-search-results">placed by firms with interests in fossil fuels</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Insurrection)
title: Insurrection
uri: Insurrection
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Insurrection)
content:
 
<p>
  *<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/05/trump-capitol-attack-democracy-election-insurrection-index">More than 1,000 Americans in positions of public trust acted as
  accomplices in Donald Trump’s attempt to overturn the 2020 election
  result</a>, participating in the violent insurrection at the US Capitol on
  6 January or spreading the “big lie” that the vote count had been
  rigged.*
<p>
  Rebecca Solnit: *Republicans are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/06/republicans-power-and-lies-mob-6-january-congress-truth">laying a path back to power – and
  paving it with lies</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(War_on_Drugs)
title: War on Drugs
uri: 2022-01-08-War-on-Drugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(War_on_Drugs)
content:
 
<p>
  The War on Drugs <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/05/war-drugs-has-failed-when-disease-becomes-crime">comes from a lie that Nixon's campaign used to demonize
  leftist political movements: anti-war Liberals and the Black Power movement</a>.
  Ehrlichman, one of his officials, later admitted this.
<p>
  Those who campaign for this drug-addicted war fight tooth and nail
  against measures such as pill-testing and safe injection spaces, that
  would prevent most of the war's civilian casualties, because those
  measures would supposedly "legitimize" the drugs.  Then they cite the
  casualties, that continue because they prevent these measures, as the
  reason to prohibit them.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Forced_labour_gloves)
title: Forced labour gloves
uri: Forced-labour-gloves
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Forced_labour_gloves)
content:
 
<p>
*The UK government is facing legal action over its decision to keep
using a Malaysian company accused of <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/06/uk-faces-legal-action-for-approving-firm-accused-of-using-forced-labour-as-ppe-supplier">using forced labour as a supplier
of [disposable medical gloves]</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Hedgehog_MRSA)
title: Hedgehog MRSA
uri: Hedgehog-MRSA
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Hedgehog_MRSA)
content:
 
<p>
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/jan/06/hedgehogs-had-mrsa-superbug-long-before-antibiotics-use-research-finds">Antibiotic-resistant staphylococcus aureus evolved on hedgehogs</a>, which are host
to a fungus that makes the antibiotic.
<p>
If cows got the resistant bacteria from hedgehogs, it is still
possible that these bacteria spread in cows because the cows were fed
that antibiotic.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Kazakhstan)
title: Kazakhstan
uri: 2022-01-08-Kazakhstan
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Kazakhstan)
content:
 
<p>
The protests in Kazakhstan were <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/06/the-guardian-view-on-kazakhstans-unrest-danger-ahead">triggered by an increase in tax on
    fossil fuels</a>.
<p>
  Keeping fossil fuel as cheap as it now is will destroy civilization.
  Nazarbayev may be corrupt power, but on this one issue, what his
  opponents demand is destruction for everyone.
<p>
  The recommended way to tax fossil fuels more is to return the tax
  money to the poor people, so that they won't be worse off overall.  I
  would guess that Nazarbayev didn't do that.  Perhaps that is worth a
  try.
<p>
  Meanwhile, the government has obtained Russian military aid
  for repressing the opposition.
<p>
  After repressing a protest in 2011, Nazarbayev <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/06/how-tony-blair-advised-former-kazakh-ruler-after-2011-uprising">paid Tony B'liar 13
  million dollars for advice about hypocritical ways to talk about it</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Journalists_repressed)
title: Journalists repressed
uri: Journalists-repressed
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Journalists_repressed)
content:
 
<p>
Many of the island states in the Pacific Ocean <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2022/jan/07/i-had-death-threats-for-my-reporting-many-journalists-in-the-pacific-face-huge-dangers">repress journalists whose
writing rocks the boat for the wealthy</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(January_6)
title: January 6
uri: January-6
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(January_6)
content:
 
<p>
*Behind the insurrection of January 6 was a coup plot that was months in
the making, and which involved a dastardly cast of characters.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Suburbs_and_wildfires)
title: Suburbs and wildfires
uri: Suburbs-and-wildfires
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Suburbs_and_wildfires)
content:
 
<p>
*‘Urban fire storm’: suburban sprawl <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/06/urban-fire-storm-suburban-sprawl-wildfires-colorado">raising risk of destructive wildfires</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Moderna_ruthless_profit_making)
title: Moderna ruthless profit making
uri: Moderna-ruthless-profit-making
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Moderna_ruthless_profit_making)
content:
 
<p>
*Volunteer Quits Moderna Vaccine Trial Over "<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/04/volunteer-quits-moderna-vaccine-trial-over-ruthless-corporate-profit-making">Ruthless Corporate
 Profit-Making</a>."*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Food_Not_Bombs)
title: Food Not Bombs
uri: Food-Not-Bombs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Food_Not_Bombs)
content:
 
<p>
*Fort Lauderdale <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/05/after-7-years-anti-war-group-fed-hungry-wins-fight-fort-lauderdale">sued Food Not Bombs for feeding homeless people --
 and Food Not Bombs has won</a>!*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Urgent:_Tongass_National_Forest)
title: Urgent: Tongass National Forest
uri: 2022-01-08-Urgent-Tongass-National-Forest
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Urgent:_Tongass_National_Forest)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: call for <a href="https://act.defenders.org/page/37089/action/1?supporter.appealCode=3WDE2204A1XX1&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=engagingnetworks&amp;utm_campaign=010522_TongassA2D_Nondonor&amp;u">restoration of the roadless rule for the Tongass National Forest</a>.

 


title: Labor protections for Uber drivers
uri: Labor-protections-for-Uber-drivers
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Labor_protections_for_Uber_drivers)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Labor_protections_for_Uber_drivers)

content:
 
<p>
*Uber CEO Admits <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/07/uber-drivers-labor-protections-dara-khosrowshahi-european-union/">Company Can Afford Labor Protections for Drivers</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Urgent:_Electoral_Count_Act)
title: Urgent: Electoral Count Act
uri: Urgent-Electoral-Count-Act
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Urgent:_Electoral_Count_Act)
content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.demandprogress.org/sign/electoral-count-act-jan-6/">reform the Electoral Count Act</a> in
order to close a loophole the wrecker tried to use for the coup.

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

 


title: Urgent: Investigate congressional supporters of Jan 6 insurrection
uri: Urgent-Investigate-congressional-supporters-of-Jan-6-insurrection
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Urgent:_Investigate_congressional_supporters_of_Jan_6_insurrection)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Urgent:_Investigate_congressional_supporters_of_Jan_6_insurrection)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Congress to <a href="https://act.winwithoutwar.org/act/jan6_accountability">investigate the members that supported
 the Jan 6 insurrection</a>.

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

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Tennis_star_in_quarantine)
title: Tennis star in quarantine
uri: Tennis-star-in-quarantine
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Tennis_star_in_quarantine)
content:
 
<p>

Australia <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/07/novak-djokovic-australia-refugees/">put a tennis star in quarantine</a> for arriving unvaccinated.
They put him in a former hotel which is also an immigration prison;
some refugees have been in that prison for up to 9 years.

 


title: Homer Simpson's working class lifestyle
uri: Homer-Simpson-s-working-class-lifestyle
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Homer_Simpson's_working_class_lifestyle)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Homer_Simpson's_working_class_lifestyle)

content:
 
<p>

Why Americans today <a href="https://invidio.us/watch?v=Fp2Ey0H7OUE">can't hope to match Homer Simpson's working-class
lifestyle</a>.
<p>
When that satirical family was conceived of, in the mid 1980s, the
<a href="/glossary.html#plutocratist">plutocratist</a> campaign was already running, but the changes were only
partial and the results were only beginning to sink in.

 


title: Ukrainian who condemned Russia's seizure of Crimea
uri: Ukrainian-who-condemned-Russia-s-seizure-of-Crimea
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Ukrainian_who_condemned_Russia's_seizure_of_Crimea)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Ukrainian_who_condemned_Russia's_seizure_of_Crimea)

content:
 
<p>

Putin has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/07/arrested-ukrainian-opera-director-vows-to-fight-putin-oppression-yevhen-lavrenchuk-italy">used Interpol to get Italy to arrest a Ukrainian</a> who condemned
Russia's seizure of Crimea.
<p>
An accusation of "financial crimes" by Russia is like an accusation of
"espionage" by the US.  There are real tax cheaters, and there are
real spies, but when the charges are aimed at a political target, 
you should not let them manipulate you.

 


title: Sharjeel Imam imprisoned on falsified charges
uri: Sharjeel-Imam-imprisoned-on-falsified-charges
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Sharjeel_Imam_imprisoned_on_falsified_charges)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Sharjeel_Imam_imprisoned_on_falsified_charges)

content:
 
<p>

Nonviolent Indian dissident (and software developer) Sharjeel Imam is
<a href="https://countercurrents.org/2022/01/sharjeel-imam-iit-bombay-jnu-and-everything-in-between/">imprisoned on falsified charges</a> of encouraging violence.
<p>
The activists of the BJP and <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-mar-jun.html#2_May_2020_(Violence_in_control)">RSS</a> 
do daily what he was falsely accused of, and get no pushback from
the state.
<p>
I regret to say that the article talks on various occasions of developing
nonfree software, as if that were perfectly legitimate.  However, that
is also no justification for imprisoning Sharjeel, or others.  We need
to <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/free-software-even-more-important.html">put an end to development of nonfree software</a>,
but imprisoning the people who do it would be going too far.

 


title: Downloading private photos of murder victims
uri: Downloading-private-photos-of-murder-victims
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Downloading_private_photos_of_murder_victims)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Downloading_private_photos_of_murder_victims)

content:
 
<p>

In another Gostak and Doshes case, a police department worker in the
UK has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/07/staffordshire-police-worker-jailed-for-storing-and-postmortem-images">sent to prison for downloading private photos of murder
victims</a>.
<p>
It may be that his having copies undermined security by increasing the
chance that some cracker would get them and release them.  That could
justify firing him for laxity in security (and fixing the security
hole he used).  But that's not what the judge rebuked him for.  The
court said his conduct was "insulting" &mdash; and that makes no sense to
me.
<p>
I can't see how a private act, which communicates nothing to anyone,
can insult anyone.  And even if it did, freedom of speech includes the
right to insult people.
<p>
Punishing privately expressed insults is one small step away from
thoughtcrime.

 


title: Medicare coverage for sick children
uri: Medicare-coverage-for-sick-children
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Medicare_coverage_for_sick_children)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Medicare_coverage_for_sick_children)

content:
 
<p>

An emergency declaration gives sick children in the US coverage from medicare.
If Biden does not extend it, it will <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/07/if-biden-doesnt-act-quickly-millions-could-lose-medicaid-omicron-surges">expire in a week</a>.

 


title: Planned Parenthood clinic in Tennessee
uri: Planned-Parenthood-clinic-in-Tennessee
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Planned_Parenthood_clinic_in_Tennessee)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Planned_Parenthood_clinic_in_Tennessee)

content:
 
<p>

Arsonists <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/07/fire-destroyed-tennessee-planned-parenthood-clinic-was-intentional-criminal-act">destroyed a Planned Parenthood clinic</a> in Tennessee.

 


title: Funding from oil giant to jail water protectors
uri: Funding-from-oil-giant-to-jail-water-protectors
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Funding_from_oil_giant_to_jail_water_protectors)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Funding_from_oil_giant_to_jail_water_protectors)

content:
 
<p>

*Prosecutor <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/06/prosecutor-sought-funding-oil-giant-enbridge-jail-line-3-water-protectors-report">Sought Funding From Oil Giant Enbridge</a> to Jail Line 3 Water
Protectors.*
<p>
In effect, the "justice" system  of Minnesota is acting like a contractor
for big business.

 


title: Oppressive national policing tactic
uri: Oppressive-national-policing-tactic
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Oppressive_national_policing_tactic)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Oppressive_national_policing_tactic)

content:
 
<p>

The UK <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> set up a "counterterrorism" project to investigate and
persecute protesters.  A review panel said it was "increasingly being
used as an intimidatory and oppressive national policing tactic."
Then some secretive officials <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/06/police-cornish-g7-activists-report-withdrawn-project-servator">decided to "withdraw" the report</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Exxon_bribed_Nusultan_Nazarbayev)
title: Exxon bribed Nusultan Nazarbayev
uri: Exxon-bribed-Nusultan-Nazarbayev
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Exxon_bribed_Nusultan_Nazarbayev)
content:
 
<p>

Greg Palast reports on how <a href="https://www.gregpalast.com/?p=28750">Exxon bribed Nursultan Nazarbayev</a>, and an
individual pleaded guilty, but was then let go by the judge.

 


title: Manchin rejected "compromise" Build Back Better bill
uri: Manchin-rejected-compromise-Build-Back-Better-bill
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Manchin_rejected_compromise_Build_Back_Better_bill)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Manchin_rejected_compromise_Build_Back_Better_bill)

content:
 
<p>

Manchin has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/08/joe-manchin-build-back-better-biden">rejected a "compromise" shrunken version of the Build Back
Better relief bill</a>, which he had previously proposed.
<p>
I think he has been toying with the progressives all along.
<p>
The most important bills are the voting rights bills.
If he supports those, at least the suffering will be temporary.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Bill_for_homelessness)
title: Bill for homelessness
uri: Bill-for-homelessness
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Bill_for_homelessness)
content:
 
<p>

*The <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20220106020627/https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/29/opinion/debt-homelessness.html">Bill for My Homelessness Was $54,000</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Culture_change)
title: Culture change
uri: Culture-change
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Culture_change)
content:
 
<p>
*Only a culture change <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/09/only-a-culture-change-can-end-this-state-of-climate-inaction">can end this state of climate inaction</a>.*
  But it's hard to achieve such change.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Pretext_for_war)
title: Pretext for war
uri: Pretext-for-war
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Pretext_for_war)
content:
 
<p>
Talks this week could reveal whether Putin wants a pretext for a war
with Ukraine, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/09/loving-and-giving-try-volunteer-work">or is only trying to bluff his way to another conquest</a>.

<p>
In general, buffer zones between empires make for peace.  I think NATO
should be willing to agree with Russia not to admit Ukraine, if Russia
makes a comparable concession, which should include pulling the plug
on the rebellion it has supported inside Ukraine.  However, Russia
should have to pay heavy reparations for taking Crimea.  Russia should
move its Black Sea fleet to a base further east, not close to Ukraine,
and at least demilitarize Crimea.

<p>
A zone on both sides of Ukraine's border with Russia (and its ally,
Belarus) in which no armored vehicles or missile launchers can be
deployed could also be a good idea for preventing future violence.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Guantanamo_prisoners)
title: Guantanamo prisoners
uri: 2022-01-10-Guantanamo-prisoners
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Guantanamo_prisoners)
content:
 
<p>
* One-third of former prisoners [of Guantanamo] sent to third
   countries are lack legal status &mdash; <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/09/guantanamo-resettled-no-legal-status">unable to work or travel, at risk
   of human rights abuses</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Reunion)
title: Reunion
uri: Reunion
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Reunion)
content:
 
<p>
Some outspoken citizens of the breakaway Turkish portion of Cyprus
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/09/rising-anger-with-turkey-drives-calls-for-reunification-in-crisis-hit-northern-cyprus">want some sort of reunion with the main, Greek part of Cyprus</a>.
  Some of them have been blocked arbitrarily from flying to Istanbul,
which is the only way to fly out of the Turkish portion.

<p>
People with these views are planning to boycott the next election.
I wonder why.  It could be that Turkey rigs the elections.  Or it could
be that the majority support the current alliance with Turkey.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Urgent:_Judiciary_Act_of_2021)
title: Urgent: Judiciary Act of 2021
uri: Urgent-Judiciary-Act-of-2021
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Urgent:_Judiciary_Act_of_2021)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-demand-president-biden-and-congress-pass-the-judiciary-act-of-2021-to-expand-the-supreme-court-2?nowrapper=true">call on Biden and Congress</a> to pass the Judiciary Act of
2021, to expand the Supreme Court.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Reducing_carbon_emissions)
title: Reducing carbon emissions
uri: 2022-01-10-Reducing-carbon-emissions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Reducing_carbon_emissions)
content:
 
<p>
In both poor countries and rich countries, the wealthier people must do
the most to reduce their carbon emissions.  This <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/07/we-cant-address-the-climate-crisis-unless-we-also-take-on-global-inequality">has implications for policies</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Speculation_on_Omicron)
title: Speculation on Omicron
uri: Speculation-on-Omicron
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Speculation_on_Omicron)
content:
 
<p>
A speculation: Omicron may have evolved in someone who has an HIV infection
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/dec/11/why-uncontrolled-hiv-may-be-behind-the-emergence-of-omicron">and was not given the drugs to control the infection</a>.

<p>
If we treated everyone that has an HIV infection, that disease would
no longer be transmitted.  It would eventually disappear.  And
perhaps, in the mean time, we would avoid new, dangerous variants of
Covid-19.


 


title: Ex-smoker on making tobacco illegal
uri: Ex-smoker-on-making-tobacco-illegal
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Ex-smoker_on_making_tobacco_illegal)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Ex-smoker_on_making_tobacco_illegal)

content:
 
<p>
An ex-smoker <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/dec/11/new-zealand-tobacco-criminalise-smoking-illegal-substances-use">argues against New Zealand's plan to make it illegal to
buy tobacco</a>.

<p>
I never intentionally smoked tobacco, because I saw from my
grandfather when I was 9 years old that tobacco means death.
I wish that tobacco would cease to exist.  But making it a crime
is a foolish reaction to the problem.

<p>
I apply this principle to nonfree software also.  It is unjust and
nasty, and should not exist.  But we should not make nonfree software
as such illegal.

<p>
I do think <a href="https://gnu.org/malware/">we should make malicious functionalities illegal</a>.


 


title: Protests as factions fight opportunity
uri: Protests-as-factions-fight-opportunity
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Protests_as_factions_fight_opportunity)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Protests_as_factions_fight_opportunity)

content:
 
<p>
The initially peaceful protests in Kazakhstan <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/08/as-order-is-restored-in-kazakhstan-its-future-is-murkier-than-ever">may have been seized as
an opportunity for political factions to fight</a>.

<p>
It won't be easy to get to the bottom of this.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Recording_all_class_sessions)
title: Recording all class sessions
uri: Recording-all-class-sessions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Recording_all_class_sessions)
content:
 
<p>
Florida proposes to authorize public schools <a href="https://newsdaytonabeach.com/stories/proposal-could-lead-to-cameras-in-classrooms,10859">to record all class sessions,
video and audio</a>.

<p>
The stated purpose is to investigate accusations that a teacher either
abused or neglected a child.  This could perhaps be acceptable, if we
could trust that the cameras won't be used for other purposes, either
with or without the school's authorization.  But I expect that Florida
will use them for other purposes &mdash; for instance, to punish teachers
that teach about racism and sexism as factual matters, and the history
of unjust systems.

<p>
Meanwhile, companies may wangle permission to "make education better"
by feeding the videos to AI programs.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Worse_than_the_satire)
title: Worse than the satire
uri: Worse-than-the-satire
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Worse_than_the_satire)
content:
 
<p>
Climate defense activists say the reality of their fight <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/08/take-it-climate-scientists-dont-look-damning-not-nearly-damning-enough">is worse than
the satire, Don't Look Up</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Undersea_cables)
title: Undersea cables
uri: Undersea-cables
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Undersea_cables)
content:
 
<p>
A UK military official warns that Russia <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/08/uk-military-chief-warns-of-russian-threat-to-vital-undersea-cables">might start damaging or
tapping undersea cables</a>.

<p>
The US did this for years during the cold war &mdash; see Blind Man's
Bluff, by Sontag and Drew.  Maybe it still does.


 


title: Urgent: exception to the filibuster
uri: Urgent-exception-to-the-filibuster
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Urgent:_exception_to_the_filibuster)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Urgent:_exception_to_the_filibuster)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-to-the-us-senate-do-everything-you-can-to-protect-our-freedom-to-vote?nowrapper=true">call on the Senate</a> to make an exception to the filibuster
for voting rights and fair elections.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Universal_medical_care_system)
title: Universal medical care system
uri: Universal-medical-care-system
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Universal_medical_care_system)
content:
 
<p>
California is considering <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/07/caravans-across-california-set-hit-road-states-single-payer-bill-advances">a universal medical care system</a>.
  This could be a great step forward.

<p>
Of the three funding methods proposed, a payroll tax is 
a bad choice, because it creates an incentive to have fewer
employees in the jurisdiction.  We would be better off if we
replaced all payroll taxes with other taxes.

<p>
A gross receipts tax with a fixed tax rate has drawbacks too:
businesses could easily pass that along to customers, as they do
with sales tax.  That's why I've proposed a gross receipts tax
<a href="https://stallman.org/articles/progressive-tax-on-business-gross-income.html">with a tax rate that is higher for large companies</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Covid_and_food_shortages)
title: Covid and food shortages
uri: Covid-and-food-shortages
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#10_January_2022_(Covid_and_food_shortages)
content:
 
<p>
Covid's spread is causing food shortages in two Australian states:
*  "Critical" or "essential" workers who are asymptomatic no longer
   required to self-isolate <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jan/09/nsw-allows-close-contacts-of-covid-cases-to-work-as-state-faces-food-shortages">if job is essential for growing, manufacturing
   or transporting food</a>.*



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Having_fewer_children)
title: Having fewer children
uri: Having-fewer-children
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Having_fewer_children)
content:
 
<p>
Now even in CNN: arguing that people should save the planet <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/09/opinions/pope-wrong-about-having-children-currie/index.html">by having
fewer children</a>.

<p>
It's good to reproduce bugs, to fix them.  It's good to reproduce
works of art, to share them.  But we need to have a lot less
reproducing of human beings, in every part of the world,
to greatly reduce the load we put on nature.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Takeover_by_business)
title: Takeover by business
uri: Takeover-by-business
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Takeover_by_business)
content:
 
<p>
Ralph Nader calls for a ten-year plan to reverse the takeover of the
US by business, including the idea <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/08/think-big-overcome-losing-big-corporatism">that businesses deserve rights as
much as human beings</a>.

<p>
That takeover is <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#8_January_2022_(Homer_Simpson's_working_class_lifestyle)">why working people can't live like Homer Simpson</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Sending_refugees_home)
title: Sending refugees home
uri: Sending-refugees-home
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Sending_refugees_home)
content:
 
<p>
The UK has ordered a Syrian refugee to return to Syria.  He fears he will
be jailed for leaving <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/09/home-office-tells-syrian-asylum-seeker-he-can-return-safely">rather than be conscripted to fight in Assad's army</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Urgent_:_postal_banking)
title: Urgent : postal banking
uri: Urgent-postal-banking
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Urgent_:_postal_banking)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: phone your congresscritter and ask per to fund a pilot program for
postal banking in the 2022 appropriations bill.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Activist_released_from_prison)
title: Activist released from prison
uri: Activist-released-from-prison
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Activist_released_from_prison)
content:
 
<p>
Palestinian-Egyptian activist Ramy Shaath <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/08/our-fight-not-over-egyptian-palestinian-rights-activist-ramy-shaath-freed-after-900">has been released from prison
and sent into exile in France</a>.

<p>
There are multiple injustices here.  Imprisoning someone for political
organizing is one.  Arbitrarily labeling a person as "terrorist" with
no proof is another.  Arbitrarily labeling an organization as
"terrorist" is another.  Taking away someone's citizenship is another.

<p>
Alas, some of these injustices are often carried out by the US as well.

<p>
The Muslim Brotherhood's political position is also unjust, because it
advocates denying equal rights to non-Muslims.  Most "Muslim" countries
commit this injustice; indeed, Egypt already does so.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Abortion_pills)
title: Abortion pills
uri: Abortion-pills
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Abortion_pills)
content:
 
<p>
Republican-ruled US states are putting up <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/08/politics/south-dakota-medication-abortions/index.html">arbitrary obstacles to interfere
with obtaining and using abortion pills</a>.

<p>
The US must allow people to get these pills without a prescription, by
mail, so that women in Republican-ruled states can get them.  To fail
to do this is to put their health in danger three times &mdash; first from
pregnancy, then from childbirth, and ultimately from the
responsibility for raising a child, which drives many destitute
Americans to dangerous measures.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Unionization)
title: Unionization
uri: 2022-01-11-Unionization
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Unionization)
content:
 
<p>
The editors of the New York Times support unionization;
the business side <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/09/new-york-times-company-liberals-unions">is trying to oppose unionization</a>.

<p>
The article errs in presenting this as hypocrisy, because it can also
bee understood as respect for editorial independence.  It is a good
thing that the business management does not order the editors to
desist from supporting unions to avoid putting the business's own
practices in a bad light.  We can criticize the business for opposing
union organizing, but to do so presuming that the business and the
editorial office are supposed to agree is to work against editorial
independence.

<p>
Old joke: how do you tell the difference between a labor organizer and
a chemist?  By their pronunciations of "unionized."


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Flammable_cladding)
title: Flammable cladding
uri: 2022-01-11-Flammable-cladding
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Flammable_cladding)
content:
 
<p>
The UK has yielded to evident moral obligation and will pay <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/09/gove-must-spend-billions-more-end-building-fire-safety-crisis">to replace
the flammable cladding in all the buildings that have it</a>.
  Previously the Tories planned to do this only for the taller
buildings.  I never saw a justification for making that distinction,
and I can't see one.

<p>
This is the right way to handle that issue.

<p>
However, there are buildings that were built with other dangerous
features, and they raise the same issue.

<p>
If the builders skimped on satisfying building codes, the
builders should pay.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Urgent:_Electoral_Count_Act)
title: Urgent: Electoral Count Act
uri: 2022-01-11-Urgent-Electoral-Count-Act
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(Urgent:_Electoral_Count_Act)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.demandprogress.org/sign/electoral-count-act-jan-6/?t=1001&akid=28776%2E96703%2E8utvFJ">call on Congress</a> to reform the Electoral Count Act in
order to close a loophole the wrecker tried to use for the coup.

<p>
But Congress <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/06/its-trap-advocates-warn-against-mcconnell-backed-election-reform-gambit">should watch out for this pitfall</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(New_Pun)
title: New Pun
uri: 2022-01-11-New-Pun
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#11_January_2022_(New_Pun)
content:
 
<p>
<a href="https://stallman.org/puns.html#talkative-fruit">Which fruits are the most talkative</a>?

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Urgent:_FCC)
title: Urgent: FCC
uri: 2022-01-12-Urgent-FCC
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Urgent:_FCC)
content:
 
<p>
From Free Press: US citizens, please phone Senator Maria Cantwell at
(202) 224-3441 and call on her to hold the vote to confirm Gigi Sohn
in the FCC before the end of January.  If no one answers, please leave
a message.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Climate-based_disasters)
title: Climate-based disasters
uri: Climate-based-disasters
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Climate-based_disasters)
content:
 
<p>
Climate-based disasters in 2021 <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/10/weather/2021-us-billion-dollar-disasters-climate-noaa/index.html">cost the US $145 billion last year</a>.

<p>
This is going to get a lot worse over the next few decades, until we
stabilize the greenhouse gas levels.


 


title: White-supremacist murderers sentenced to life in prison
uri: White-supremacist-murderers-sentenced-to-life-in-prison
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(White-supremacist_murderers_sentenced_to_life_in_prison)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(White-supremacist_murderers_sentenced_to_life_in_prison)

content:
 
<p>
Ahmaud Arbery's murderers <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/10/opinions/ahmaud-arbery-killers-sentencing-justice-tisby/index.html">were sentenced to life in prison</a>.

<p>
I think this is justice.  However, for the goal of eliminating white
supremacism, it is just a small step.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Major_course_correction_needed)
title: Major course correction needed
uri: Major-course-correction-needed
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Major_course_correction_needed)
content:
 
<p>
*Sanders Says Democrats Need 'Major Course Correction' to Prevent GOP
Takeover.  "In too many ways the Democratic Party has turned its back
on the working class," <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/10/sanders-says-democrats-need-major-course-correction-prevent-gop-takeover">argues the Vermont senator</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Climate_mayhem)
title: Climate mayhem
uri: 2022-01-12-Climate-mayhem
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Climate_mayhem)
content:
 
<p>
<a href="/glossary.html#climate">Climate mayhem</a> is wiping out the terns and puffins that lived on the
islands of Maine.  The water there <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/10/climate-crisis-clawing-back-progress-we-made-save-puffins">is now too hot for the fish that used
to live there</a>.

<p>
*How the speed of [global heating] <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2022/jan/11/climate-change-insect-world-global-heating-species">is unbalancing the insect world</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Regain_sense_of_control)
title: Regain sense of control
uri: Regain-sense-of-control
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Regain_sense_of_control)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/man-tries-to-regain-sense-of-control-in-chaotic-univers-1848234425">satire</a>) *Man Tries To Regain Sense Of Control In Chaotic Universe By
Learning To Juggle.*


 


title: Veto on bill permitting to unionize
uri: Veto-on-bill-permitting-to-unionize
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Veto_on_bill_permitting_to_unionize)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Veto_on_bill_permitting_to_unionize)

content:
 
<p>
Governors from the Democratic Party have vetoed bills in California and Maine
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/10/absolute-disgrace-maines-democratic-gov-kills-bill-allow-farmworkers-unionize">that would have permitted farm workers to unionize</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(ISP_data_collection)
title: ISP data collection
uri: ISP-data-collection
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(ISP_data_collection)
content:
 
<p>
The FTC has investigated <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/10/ftc-staff-report-finds-many-internet-service-providers-collect">what personal data ISPs collect from their customers</a>.
  However it is thinking in terms of regulating how ISPs can <em>use</em> that data,
rather than whether they can collect it.  In general, <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">that choice is the ineffective choice</a>.

<p>
If you can find a way to tell the FTC, "Limit the data ISPs can
<em>collect</em>!", that would be useful to do &mdash; and I would be glad to post
here the way to reach that agency, if it does not require running
nonfree Javascript code.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Non_exclusive_racial_groups)
title: Non exclusive racial groups
uri: Non-exclusive-racial-groups
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Non_exclusive_racial_groups)
content:
 
<p>
Proposing to unite the racial groups in a society <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/commentisfree/2022/jan/11/in-todays-new-zealand-its-not-about-being-just-maori-or-pakeha-everyone-must-belong">by defining them
as not exclusive of each other</a>.
  The article proposes this specifically for the case of New Zealand,
but it could be applicable elsewhere.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Jail_for_criticizing_policies)
title: Jail for criticizing policies
uri: Jail-for-criticizing-policies
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Jail_for_criticizing_policies)
content:
 
<p>
The Taliban have jailed a professor <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/10/calls-for-release-of-kabul-university-professor-detained-by-taliban">for criticizing their policies</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Opposition_win)
title: Opposition win
uri: Opposition-win
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Opposition_win)
content:
 
<p>
An opposition candidate <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/10/venezuelan-opposition-defeats-maduro-candidate-hugo-chavez-home-state-barinas">defeated one of Maduro's lieutenants in an
election for Congress</a>.

<p>
The article doesn't say which opposition position the winner supports
&mdash; was it the "surrender to the US" golpista opposition of Guaidó, or
was it the honest-government opposition?  I wish I could find out.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Defusing_the_climate_emergency)
title: Defusing the climate emergency
uri: Defusing-the-climate-emergency
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Defusing_the_climate_emergency)
content:
 
<p>
*Defusing the climate emergency <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/10/democracy-big-lie-climate-crisis">requires defusing threats to American
democracy</a>.*

<p>
This is because the Republican support for plutocracy goes so far you
would expect it only in satirical exaggeration.  Surely <em>real</em> plutocrats
would not be so absurdly greedy!


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(New_political_powers_for_army)
title: New political powers for army
uri: New-political-powers-for-army
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(New_political_powers_for_army)
content:
 
<p>
*Bolsonaro Gave Brazil's Army New [Political] Powers. The Generals
 <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/10/brazil-military-power-jair-bolsonaro/">Won't Give Them Up Easily</a>.*


 


title: Europol forced to delete personal data
uri: Europol-forced-to-delete-personal-data
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Europol_forced_to_delete_personal_data)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Europol_forced_to_delete_personal_data)

content:
 
<p>
<!-- Possibly misspelled: Europol -->
   vast store of personal data that it has been found to have amassed
   unlawfully <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/10/a-data-black-hole-europol-ordered-to-delete-vast-store-of-personal-data">by the bloc’s data protection watchdog</a>.*

<p>
To defend democracy <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">requires anonymity</a>.
                                         So the next challenge is to
limit what data that agency, and other "security" agencies, can
collect in the first place.  Also what data businesses can collect.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Laws_helping_overturn_elections)
title: Laws helping overturn elections
uri: Laws-helping-overturn-elections
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#12_January_2022_(Laws_helping_overturn_elections)
content:
 
<p>
Republicans are passing state laws to give themselves excuses
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/09/politics/gop-election-voting-rights-battleground-states/index.html">to arbitrarily overturn elections for partisan motives</a>.

<p>
Their planned elimination of democracy, followed by repression, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/10/republicans-election-democracy-seven-ways-trump">could
be lawful in a superficial sense</a>.
  However, it would result in a blatantly undemocratic, thus blatantly
illegitimate government.

<p>
No one knows how to make an institution that can adapt to all possible
future situations without falling into a trap that perverts it into
something worthless.  But I did not expect to see that during my
lifetime.

<p>
The United States had never implemented democracy and human rights
fully and properly; there have been struggles over this through its
whole history.  But at least it provided a framework for that
struggle, within which progress and victory were possible.  If that is
lost, where will it be possible to imagine victory?  We may have a
world in which all the pressing struggles are between one disgusting
illegitimate regime and another.  Will it be worth fighting for the US
to prevent China's world domination if the US has become almost as
repressive as China?

<p>
In that, in which the demand for democracy and
human rights is seen as a distraction, one that people are permitted
to talk about with some nostalgia only because that talk can have no
consequences.  In a few decades, what is now the United States
may be split into dozens of little absolutist regimes that fight
over whatever fragments of technology can still be used, and people
will hardly remember what human rights once meant.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Interrogation_official)
title: Interrogation official
uri: Interrogation-official
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Interrogation_official)
content:
 
<p>
One of Assad's interrogation officials fled from Syria and described the
system which tortured people to get information, which he participated
in as a supervisor.  <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/12/german-court-expected-to-accuse-assad-regime-in-syria-of-torture">Now he is on trial for his role in the system</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Filling_hospitals)
title: Filling hospitals
uri: Filling-hospitals
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Filling_hospitals)
content:
 
<p>
Covid-19 is again filling US hospitals in many states.  In addition,
with so many medical workers sick with Covid-19, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/11/us-covid-hospitalizations-record-number-cases">it is hard for the
hospitals to treat so many the patients</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Rebuilding_flammable_residences)
title: Rebuilding flammable residences
uri: Rebuilding-flammable-residences
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Rebuilding_flammable_residences)
content:
 
<p>
A Tory minister has promised that the UK government will pay for
rebuilding the flammable construction of residences in Britain.
But this is no legal commitment, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/11/victory-families-dangerous-cladding-scandal-michael-gove">just a personal promise</a>.
  He could be replaced as minister with the promise unkept.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Pushing_millions_into_penury)
title: Pushing millions into penury
uri: Pushing-millions-into-penury
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Pushing_millions_into_penury)
content:
 
<p>
The UK is going to push millions into penury <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/11/energy-price-crisis-tory-britain-ed-miliband">with rising prices for
fossil fuel</a>.
  Labour has joined the push for a windfall profits tax, such as the US
adopted in the oil shortage of the 1970s.

<p>
The Tories have adopted plans to reduce use of fossil fuels, but they
have cancelled them before it was time to spend money.  That's because
"more for the rich" is its priority.

<p>
Labour's plan is not particularly bold.  It is an adequate plan, and
much better than none at all.  However, we won't see any bold plans
from Labour now that <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-jul-oct.html#1_October_2021_(Labour_Party">it has kicked out Corbyn and his supporters</a>.
  It has decided against boldness.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Speed_of_carbon_cuts)
title: Speed of carbon cuts
uri: Speed-of-carbon-cuts
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Speed_of_carbon_cuts)
content:
 
<p>
*German climate minister says speed of carbon cuts needs to be trebled*
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/11/germany-must-pull-together-to-achieve-climate-targets-says-green-minister">to achieve the country's targets</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Tax_those_who_refuse_vaccination)
title: Tax those who refuse vaccination
uri: Tax-those-who-refuse-vaccination
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Tax_those_who_refuse_vaccination)
content:
 
<p>
Quebec plans to tax those who refuse Covid-19 vaccination, on the grounds
that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/11/quebec-health-tax-unvaccinated-coronavirus">they are choosing to impose costs on the NHS</a>.

<p>
Vaccination is so important that this is justified.  However, it would
be wrong to extend that to much actions that don't put others in danger;
that would lead to a pervasively repressive society.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Anger_on_Bogus_Johnson)
title: Anger on Bogus Johnson
uri: Anger-on-Bogus-Johnson
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Anger_on_Bogus_Johnson)
content:
 
<p>
Bogus Johnson's decision to invite officials and friends to a party
at his office, disregarding the strict rules that said no one else
in Britain could have such a party, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2022/jan/11/the-partys-over-now-boris-johnsons-career-should-be-too">have focused anger at him</a>.

<p>
Planet-roaster Tories want to seize the opportunity to replace him
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/11/boris-johnson-climate-action-net-zero-conservative-party">with someone who will officially cancel Britain's climate commitments</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Half_population_infected)
title: Half population infected
uri: Half-population-infected
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Half_population_infected)
content:
 
<p>
WHO Europe forecasts that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/11/omicron-europe-tidal-wave-who">half the population of Europe will be
infected with Omicron soon</a>.

<p>
The article presents recommendations, including mandating high-quality
masks, priorities for vaccination, and others.


 


title: Writer charged over critical tweets
uri: Writer-charged-over-critical-tweets
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Writer_charged_over_critical_tweets)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Writer_charged_over_critical_tweets)

content:
 
<p>
*Ugandan writer <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/11/ugandan-writer-charged-over-tweets-critical-of-president-museveni">charged over tweets critical of President Museveni</a>.*

<p>
So many countries are repressive to those who criticize the rulers.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Covid_and_global_heating)
title: Covid and global heating
uri: Covid-and-global-heating
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Covid_and_global_heating)
content:
 
<p>
*Covid has undermined <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/11/covid-has-undermined-fight-against-global-heating-says-wef">fight against global heating</a>, says WEF.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Coping_with_climate_mayhem)
title: Coping with climate mayhem
uri: Coping-with-climate-mayhem
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Coping_with_climate_mayhem)
content:
 
<p>
*Cuba Shows <a href="https://jacobinmag.com/2022/01/cuba-climate-change-tarea-vida-environment">How to Take Action [to cope with climate mayhem]</a>.

<p>
The more important climate action is to reduce the amount of global
heating.  As we do more of that, we spare every region lots of work
coping with <a href="/glossary.html#climate">climate mayhem</a>, because there will be less climate mayhem
to cope with.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Oath_to_defend_the_constitution)
title: Oath to defend the constitution
uri: Oath-to-defend-the-constitution
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Oath_to_defend_the_constitution)
content:
 
<p>
*Voters move to block [the corrupter's] ally Madison Cawthorn from
re-election,* citing the constitutional amendment barring candidates
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/11/madison-cawthorn-trump-republican-north-carolina-voters">that have taken the oath to defend the constitution and violated it</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Last_years)
title: Last years
uri: Last-years
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Last_years)
content:
 
<p>
The last seven years <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/10/world/2021-global-climate-5th-warmest-copernicus/index.html">were the seven hottest since records began</a>.

<p>
The last three years <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/11/world/oceans-warmest-on-record-2021-climate/index.html">set records for the heat of the oceans</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Concealing_background)
title: Concealing background
uri: Concealing-background
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Concealing_background)
content:
 
<p>
Prejudice against Dalits is so powerful in India that those Dalits who make it
into middle-class society <a href="https://restofworld.org/2022/caste-harassment-india-dalit-social-media/?utm-source=sharing">work desperately to conceal their background</a>.
  They could be shunned, fired, even murdered.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Small_killer_robots)
title: Small killer robots
uri: Small-killer-robots
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Small_killer_robots)
content:
 
<p>
Small killer robots are feasible now &mdash; especially if they find their
target by the IMSI and IMEI codes <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/10/killer-robots-and-laws-we-need-stop-them">in the transmissions from a portable
phone</a>.

<p>
It is possible to prevent their use in war, with a treaty.
But I think that criminal gangs will use them for assassination.




 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Coal-ash_ponds)
title: Coal-ash ponds
uri: Coal-ash-ponds
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Coal-ash_ponds)
content:
 
<p>
*EPA begins <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/11/politics/biden-epa-coal-ash-ponds-enforcement-climate/index.html">enforcement on clean up of toxic coal-ash ponds</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Argentina)
title: Argentina
uri: 2022-01-13-Argentina
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Argentina)
content:
 
<p>
  Argentina's new center-left government is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/11/argentinas-economic-success-face-covid-19">doing surprisingly well
  at climbing out of the economic hole that the previous right-wing government
  and the IMF contrived to put it into</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_((Satire)_No_Past)
title: (Satire) No Past
uri: (Satire)-No-Past
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_((Satire)_No_Past)
content:
 
<p>
  (satire) *Man Horrified After <a href="https://www.theonion.com/man-horrified-after-genealogy-test-confirms-he-has-no-p-1848234419">Genealogy Test Confirms He Has No Past</a>.*

 


title: Texas schools blocking sites that help queer students
uri: Texas-schools-blocking-sites-that-help-queer-students
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Texas_schools_blocking_sites_that_help_queer_students)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Texas_schools_blocking_sites_that_help_queer_students)

content:
 
<p>
  Texas schools are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/11/queer-teens-texas-school-are-reaching-crisis-point">blocking internet access to sites that help
  queer students avoid suicide, and cope with hatred</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Antichrist)
title: Antichrist
uri: 2022-01-13-Antichrist
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Antichrist)
content:
 
<p>
  Arguing that <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/11/yes-donald-trump-antichrist">the corruptor really is <em>an</em> antichrist</a>.
  That statement doesn't make any supernatural claims.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_((Satire)_Gates_Philanthropy)
title: (Satire) Gates Philanthropy
uri: (Satire)-Gates-Philanthropy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_((Satire)_Gates_Philanthropy)
content:
 
<p>
  (satire) *Gates Foundation Sues Thousands Of Charities For <a href="https://www.theonion.com/gates-foundation-sues-thousands-of-charities-for-infrin-1848339956">Infringing
    On Trademark Concept Of Philanthropy</a>.*
<p>
  The Gates Foundation's announcement fell into a common confusion
  by equating trademarks with patents.  This sort of confusion turns
  almost any statement into conceptual garbage.
<p>
  See <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/not-ipr.html">https://gnu.org/philosophy/not-ipr.html</a> and
  <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/komongistan.html">https://gnu.org/philosophy/komongistan.html</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Amazon_Unionization)
title: Amazon Unionization
uri: Amazon-Unionization
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Amazon_Unionization)
content:
 
<p>
  Workers at an Amazon warehouse will <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/11/alabama-amazon-workers-win-new-vote-unionize">get a new vote on unionization</a>.

 


title: Pie-in-the-sky net-zero climate strategy
uri: Pie-in-the-sky-net-zero-climate-strategy
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Pie-in-the-sky_net-zero_climate_strategy)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Pie-in-the-sky_net-zero_climate_strategy)

content:
 
<p>
*UK government sued over <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/12/net-zero-climate-strategy-uk-government-sued">"pie-in-the-sky" net-zero climate strategy</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Child_Tax_Credit)
title: Child Tax Credit
uri: 2022-01-13-Child-Tax-Credit
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#13_January_2022_(Child_Tax_Credit)
content:
 
<p>
  93% of the children in West Virginia were <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/12/west-virginians-child-tax-credits-manchin">supported last year by the
  Child Tax Credit</a>.  Senator Manchin of West Virginia says he couldn't
  possibly justify continuing that support to the people of his state.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Blood_donation_crisis)
title: Blood donation crisis
uri: Blood-donation-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Blood_donation_crisis)
content:
 
<p>
Blood donations in the US are down, due to the spread of Covid-19, and
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/blood-donation-crisis-us-red-cross">supplies of some blood types are running dangerously low</a>.
<p>
Soon, injured people may start dying because there is no blood available
to give them transfusions.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Election_process)
title: Election process
uri: Election-process
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Election_process)
content:
 
<p>
*Trump loyalists <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/trump-loyalists-secretary-of-state-candidates">form alliance in bid to take over election process in
key states</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Campaign_against_teachers)
title: Campaign against teachers
uri: Campaign-against-teachers
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Campaign_against_teachers)
content:
 
<p>
Republican fanatics are now leading a blacklisting campaign <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/our-job-is-to-present-the-truth-the-texas-principal-caught-in-a-critical-race-theory-firestorm">against teachers
that explain racism in American history</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Vaccination_mandate)
title: Vaccination mandate
uri: Vaccination-mandate
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Vaccination_mandate)
content:
 
<p>
The right-wing justices on the US Supreme Court <a href="media/6fa2049e.2021-11-05.pdf" data-original-source="https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/laws-regs/federalregister/2021-11-05.pdf">rejected OSHA's
vaccination mandate for medium and large businesses</a>.
  With this ruling they began to support the Republican Party's strategy
to incapacitate the US with disease, and blame the consequences on Democrats.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(ICBMs)
title: ICBMs
uri: ICBMs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(ICBMs)
content:
 
<p>
Calling for the elimination of ICBMs, to eliminate the hurry to launch 
a nuclear attack <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/12/avert-global-nuclear-holocaust-us-groups-demand-abolition-icbms">because one seems possibly to be on its way</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Filibuster)
title: Filibuster
uri: 2022-01-14-Filibuster
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Filibuster)
content:
 
<p>
*What would the Supreme Court's "originalists" think of the filibuster?<br/>
If they were honest, <a href="https://robertreich.substack.com/p/originalists-filibuster">they'd find it unconstitutional</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Shot_dead_for_no_reason)
title: Shot dead for no reason
uri: Shot-dead-for-no-reason
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Shot_dead_for_no_reason)
content:
 
<p>
An Israeli writes about his long friendship with his Palestinian Aseel
friend, who worked for peace, and was shot dead for no reason by
Israeli thugs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2022/jan/13/peace-middle-east-friend-summer-camp-israel">while standing unarmed in the middle of a nonviolent
rally</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Real_adventures)
title: Real adventures
uri: Real-adventures
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Real_adventures)
content:
 
<p>
Covid-19 has transformed commercial sea cruises <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/12/cruise-covid-cases-ship-industry">into real adventures</a>!
  (I'd rather stay home.)


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Wealth_tax)
title: Wealth tax
uri: 2022-01-14-Wealth-tax
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Wealth_tax)
content:
 
<p>
As the rich show off their wealth, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/13/super-rich-spend-2m-on-whisky-wealth-tax-pandemic">they show we need to impose
a wealth tax</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Refusing_to_debate)
title: Refusing to debate
uri: Refusing-to-debate
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Refusing_to_debate)
content:
 
<p>
The Republican Party <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/republican-party-signals-plans-withdraw-presidential-debates">will refuse to debate Democrats for the
presidency</a>.

<p>
Democrats should invite the Green Party and the <a href="https://stallman.org/antiglossary.html#libertarian">"Libertarian"</a>
   Party to the debate, so that the Republicans
will miss out on the chance rather than cancel it.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Felon_disenfranchisement)
title: Felon disenfranchisement
uri: Felon-disenfranchisement
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Felon_disenfranchisement)
content:
 
<p>
*Mississippi: felon disenfranchisement <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/mississippi-felon-disenfranchisement-is-a-racist-labyrinth-worthy-of-kafka">is a racist labyrinth worthy of
 Kafka</a>.*

<p>
The people who set up that system chose a set of felonies to trigger
disenfranchisement, not because they were the worst of felonies, but
because they were likely to disenfranchise blacks.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Coup_consequences)
title: Coup consequences
uri: Coup-consequences
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Coup_consequences)
content:
 
<p>
If the wrecker captures the presidency through a coup, <a href="https://snyder.substack.com/p/a-dream-of-power-an-awakening-to">the US could
fall apart in chaos</a>.



 


title: Urgent: Regulate methane emissions
uri: Urgent-Regulate-methane-emissions
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Urgent:_Regulate_methane_emissions)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Urgent:_Regulate_methane_emissions)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: push the EPA to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/sign-the-petition-demand-the-epa-limit-methane-the-oil-gas-industry-super-pollutant">regulate methane emissions</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Cost_increase_for_Medicare)
title: Cost increase for Medicare
uri: Cost-increase-for-Medicare
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Cost_increase_for_Medicare)
content:
 
<p>

The department of HHS is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/10/good-news-seniors-becerra-orders-medicare-reassess-premium-hike">pushing back on a cost increase for Medicare</a>
that would be needed to pay for an exorbitantly expensive drug that
might prevent Alzheimer's disease.
<p>
The approval of that drug <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-mar-jun.html#30_June_2021_(Questionable_Alzheimers_Drug)">may have been a mistake</a>, and some corrupt
influence is suspected.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Complaint_against_Rep._Cawthorn)
title: Complaint against Rep. Cawthorn
uri: Complaint-against-Rep-Cawthorn
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Complaint_against_Rep._Cawthorn)
content:
 
<p>

The complaint against Rep. Cawthorn requires him to demonstrate he is
eligible to run for the House of Representatives &mdash; <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/10/citing-blatant-acts-insurrection-nc-voters-petition-bar-cawthorn-seeking-reelection">specifically, that he
was not involved in the Jan 6 insurrection</a>.

 


title: Rejecting applicants for being poor
uri: Rejecting-applicants-for-being-poor
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Rejecting_applicants_for_being_poor)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Rejecting_applicants_for_being_poor)

content:
 
<p>

Several prestigious US universities are being sued for <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/10/antitrust-suit-alleges-16-elite-universities-colluded-limit-financial-aid">illegally rejecting
applicants specifically for being poor</a>.
<p>
A special law allows universities to collaborate (rather than compete) on how
much financial aid they offer, but only with the condition that they don't
consider need for financial aid as a criterion for admissions.
<p>
All in all, other countries do a much better job of keeping the cost
of higher education down.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Refusing_Covid-19_precautions)
title: Refusing Covid-19 precautions
uri: Refusing-Covid-19-precautions
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Refusing_Covid-19_precautions)
content:
 
<p>

People who refuse the basic precautions against the spread of Covid-19
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/12/anti-vaxxers-should-face-penalties-for-their-selfish-choices">endanger people who get badly sick or injured in any way</a>.

 


title: Effectiveness of lockdowns in Britain
uri: Effectiveness-of-lockdowns-in-Britain
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Effectiveness_of_lockdowns_in_Britain)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Effectiveness_of_lockdowns_in_Britain)

content:
 
<p>

The lockdowns in Britain whose purpose was to reduce cases of Covid-19
were <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/jan/12/pandemic-brought-dramatic-fall-in-english-hospital-admissions-for-childhood-infections">effective for that</a>.  They also prevented nearly all of the expected hospitalizations of children for flu, meningitis, tonsillitis, and
bronchiolitis: over 70,000 cases in all.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Global_heating)
title: Global heating
uri: 2022-01-15-Global-heating
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(Global_heating)
content:
 
<p>
Here's an article that tries to convince us that what's
really bad about global heating is that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/13/inaction-global-warming-racism-climate-breakdown-people-of-colour">it treats disprivileged
groups worse than privileged groups</a>.
<p>
Sure, unfairness is wrong.  But if most people in every group are going
to be killed -- plus over half the other living species -- isn't that
much worse?
<p>
If, in that killing of billions, an equal fraction were going to be
killed in every ethnic or racial group, that would not make it ok.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(NYC_fire)
title: NYC fire
uri: NYC-fire
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#14_January_2022_(NYC_fire)
content:
 
<p>
NYC's new mayor, in regard to the recent fire, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/13/why-is-new-york-citys-mayor-blaming-tenants-for-the-deadliest">downplays the owner's
failure to maintain and operate the building safely, and focuses on
the tenants' dangerous methods for coping with those flaws</a>.
<p>
It's generally better to fix the system than to try to teach many
individuals to work perfectly within the existing flawed system.  At one
level, that's the reason to require central heating.  At another,
that's the reason for building codes.  At another, that's the reason
for progressive politics.

 


title: Urgent: Fix the filibuster and pass the John R. Lewis Act
uri: Urgent-Fix-the-filibuster-and-pass-the-John-R-Lewis-Act
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_Fix_the_filibuster_and_pass_the_John_R._Lewis_Act)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_Fix_the_filibuster_and_pass_the_John_R._Lewis_Act)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: Phone your senators at 1-833-497-4273 to urge them to fix
the <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#3_January_2022_(Schumer)">filibuster</a> and pass the <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#12_December_2021_(Urgent:_Freedom_to_Vote_Act)">Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act</a>.  It is
the combination of the two voting rights laws that progressives
have campaigned for for several years.

 


title: Urgent: Paid sick leave for Red Lobster employees
uri: Urgent-Paid-sick-leave-for-Red-Lobster-employees
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_Paid_sick_leave_for_Red_Lobster_employees)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_Paid_sick_leave_for_Red_Lobster_employees)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on Red Lobster to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-now-red-lobster-should-offer-paid-sick-leave-to-its-employees">offer paid sick leave</a> to its employees, and thus protect customers' health.

 


title: Urgent: No slumlords on NYC Mayor Adams transition team!
uri: Urgent-No-slumlords-on-NYC-Mayor-Adams-transition-team
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_No_slumlords_on_NYC_Mayor_Adams_transition_team!)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_No_slumlords_on_NYC_Mayor_Adams_transition_team!)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: tell NYC Mayor Adams: <a href="https://act.colorofchange.org/sign/NYC_fire_transition">No slumlords on your transition team!</a>

 


title: Urgent: Confirm Lael Brainard to the Federal Reserve
uri: Urgent-Confirm-Lael-Brainard-to-the-Federal-Reserve
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_Confirm_Lael_Brainard_to_the_Federal_Reserve)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Urgent:_Confirm_Lael_Brainard_to_the_Federal_Reserve)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on senators to <a href="https://act.350.org/letter/jan-22-confirm-brainard-senate/">confirm Lael Brainard to the Federal
Reserve</a>.

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

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Getting_food_into_Tigray)
title: Getting food into Tigray
uri: Getting-food-into-Tigray
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Getting_food_into_Tigray)
content:
 
<p>

The UN says it <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/13/warning-fuel-and-food-stocks-hellish-tigray-reels-from-airstrikes">can't get enough food into Tigray</a> to keep people alive,
nor the fuel to transport that food.  The supplies of food have been
insufficient since July.
<p>
Can anyone find reports that explain what is really going on in that war?

 


title: Assad's torturer commander convicted
uri: Assad-s-torturer-commander-convicted
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Assad's_torturer_commander_convicted)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Assad's_torturer_commander_convicted)

content:
 
<p>

One of Assad's torturer commanders has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/13/jailing-former-syrian-secret-police-officer-anwar-raslan-germany-first-step-justice"convicted in Germany of
overseeing the torture of 4,000 prisoners</a>.  Some of them testified
in his trial.

 


title: Pegasus used to spy on journalists
uri: Pegasus-used-to-spy-on-journalists
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Pegasus_used_to_spy_on_journalists)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Pegasus_used_to_spy_on_journalists)

content:
 
<p>

Someone used Pegasus spyware to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2022/jan/13/pegasus-spyware-target-journalists-activists-el-salvador">spy on 35 journalists in El Salvador</a>. Based on the fact that they were investigating accusations against
the tyrannical president, we can suspect this was done behalf of the
government or the president.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(UK_general_repression_bill)
title: UK general repression bill
uri: UK-general-repression-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(UK_general_repression_bill)
content:
 
<p>

The UK general repression bill plans <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/12/uk-authoritarianism-minority-policing-bill-roma-gypsy-traveller">intense repression of Gypsies</a>.
Their vehicles could be confiscated on suspicion and their children
taken away. The UK already has laws to punish homeless people for
sleeping on the street, or in an unoccupied home.
<p>
All this just as Britain is facing a critical shortage of housing.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Animals_that_disperse_seeds)
title: Animals that disperse seeds
uri: Animals-that-disperse-seeds
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Animals_that_disperse_seeds)
content:
 
<p>

As the animals that disperse seeds shift habitats in response to
global heating, the plants they used to disperse tend to be <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/13/plants-at-risk-of-extinction-as-climate-crisis-disrupts-animal-migration">left
without a way to shift</a>. That reduces their range, so that all sorts of random local accidents can
wipe them out.

 


title: Leader of the Oath Keepers charged
uri: Leader-of-the-Oath-Keepers-charged
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Leader_of_the_Oath_Keepers_charged)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Leader_of_the_Oath_Keepers_charged)

content:
 
<p>

The leader of the Oath Keepers has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/oath-keepers-capitol-attack-us">charged with seditious conspiracy</a>
for the Jan 6 attack on the Capitol, along with other members.

 


title: Repair and protect Australian beaches
uri: Repair-and-protect-Australian-beaches
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Repair_and_protect_Australian_beaches)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Repair_and_protect_Australian_beaches)

content:
 
<p>

Some Australians call for public works to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jan/14/we-are-custodians-the-fights-to-save-australias-eroding-beaches">repair beaches and protect them</a>.
This would be worth doing if not for <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>.  Two or more
meters of sea level rise in this century will overwhelm these local
efforts.
<p>
If they want to preserve today's beaches, they have to start by preserving
today's sea level, and that calls for climate defense.  Strange that this
article doesn't say a word about this.

 


title: Rescuing US elections from Republican Rigging
uri: Rescuing-US-elections-from-Republican-Rigging
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Rescuing_US_elections_from_Republican_Rigging)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Rescuing_US_elections_from_Republican_Rigging)

content:
 
<p>

Sinema seems to have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/kyrsten-sinema-democrats-filibuster-voting-rights">killed all hope</a> to rescue US elections from
Republican rigging.

 


title: (satire) Pamphlet on probabilistic thinking
uri: (satire)-Pamphlet-on-probabilistic-thinking
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_((satire)_Pamphlet_on_probabilistic_thinking)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_((satire)_Pamphlet_on_probabilistic_thinking)

content:
 
<p>

(satire) *CDC Announces Plan To Send Every U.S. Household <a href="https://www.theonion.com/cdc-announces-plan-to-send-every-u-s-household-pamphle-1848354068">Pamphlet On
Probabilistic Thinking</a>.*
<p>
When it comes to preventing Covid-19, the CDC should give people clear
and simple recommendations. But these pamphlets could be useful
to help people recognize and reject disinformation.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(GOP_partisan_Gerrymandering)
title: GOP partisan Gerrymandering
uri: GOP-partisan-Gerrymandering
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(GOP_partisan_Gerrymandering)
content:
 
<p>

*Ohio Supreme Court <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/12/victory-ohio-supreme-court-strikes-down-gop-partisan-gerrymandering">Strikes Down GOP Partisan Gerrymandering</a>.*

 


title: Report debunks Manchin's inflation argument
uri: Report-debunks-Manchin-s-inflation-argument
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Report_debunks_Manchin's_inflation_argument)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Report_debunks_Manchin's_inflation_argument)

content:
 
<p>

*Report <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/12/report-debunks-manchins-inflation-argument-against-build-back-better">Debunks Manchin's Inflation Argument</a> Against Build Back Better.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Plutocratist_Democrats)
title: Plutocratist Democrats
uri: 2022-01-16-Plutocratist-Democrats
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Plutocratist_Democrats)
content:
 
<p>

When <a href="/glossary.html#plutocratist">plutocratist</a> Democrats defeat progressive programs, the next
thing they do is pretend that the programs failed because they went
"too far left."  This is supposed to be a reason to vote for
<a href="/glossary.html#plutocratist">plutocratist</a> Democrats.  Polls show that large majorities of Americans
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-sep-dec.html#28_November_2021_(Popularity)">support the main progressive policy programs</a>.
<p>
Now they are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/12/progressives-clinton-other-centrists-back-election-advice">pushing for Clinton to run again</a> for president.
<p>
I will back Sanders if he runs.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(N95_masks_for_all)
title: N95 masks for all
uri: N95-masks-for-all
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(N95_masks_for_all)
content:
 
<p>

*Biden Under Fire for <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/12/biden-under-fire-resisting-calls-distribute-n95-masks-all">Resisting Calls to Distribute N95 Masks to All</a>.*

 


title: Burmese army fighting with rebels
uri: Burmese-army-fighting-with-rebels
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Burmese_army_fighting_with_rebels)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(Burmese_army_fighting_with_rebels)

content:
 
<p>

The Burmese army is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/14/burmese-flee-bombardment-as-junta-makes-example-of-city-of-loikaw">fighting heavily</a> with rebels in the city of Loikaw.
Most of the inhabitants (perhaps over 100,000) have fled.

 


title: 140m people fell into poverty during pandemic
uri: 140m-people-fell-into-poverty-during-pandemic
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(140m_people_fell_into_poverty_during_pandemic)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#15_January_2022_(140m_people_fell_into_poverty_during_pandemic)

content:
 
<p>

Since the start of the pandemic, *while wealthiest got richer, 140m
   people <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/14/covid-created-20-new-pandemic-billionaires-in-asia-says-oxfam">fell into poverty</a> as jobs were lost, wiping out years of
   gains for poorest.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Urgent:_Disinfo_Defense_League)
title: Urgent: Disinfo Defense League
uri: Urgent-Disinfo-Defense-League
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Urgent:_Disinfo_Defense_League)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://act.freepress.net/sign/adopt_ddl_policy_platform">support</a> the Disinfo Defense League platform.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Look_out_for_bullets)
title: Look out for bullets
uri: Look-out-for-bullets
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Look_out_for_bullets)
content:
 
<p>
(<a href="https://www.theonion.com/lapd-cautions-residents-to-look-out-for-dozens-of-bulle-1848354091">satire</a>) *LAPD Cautions Residents To Look Out For Dozens Of Bullets
Officers Sent Ricocheting Around City.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Congress_and_stocks)
title: Congress and stocks
uri: Congress-and-stocks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Congress_and_stocks)
content:
 
<p>
Senators Ossoff and Kelly have proposed a bill to prohibit
members of Congress (and their families) <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/ossoff-unveils-bill-ban-stock-trading-lawmakers-immediate-family">from buying and selling stocks</a>.

<p>
A Republican <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/13/politics/lawmakers-jon-ossoff-josh-hawley-ban-stocks-trading-office/index.html">proposed something similar</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Worsening_climate_crisis)
title: Worsening climate crisis
uri: Worsening-climate-crisis
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Worsening_climate_crisis)
content:
 
<p>
*Big Bank, Corporate Destruction of Forests <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/big-bank-corporate-destruction-forests-worsening-climate-crisis-report">Worsening Climate Crisis</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Tool_for_repression)
title: Tool for repression
uri: Tool-for-repression
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Tool_for_repression)
content:
 
<p>
Human rights defenders warn that a new treaty to combat "cybercrime"
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/human-rights-groups-warn-un-cybercrime-treaty-must-avoid-chilling-effect">could become a tool for repression of dissent</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(One_day_off_each_week)
title: One day off each week
uri: One-day-off-each-week
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(One_day_off_each_week)
content:
 
<p>
Frito-Lay employees ended a strike when the company agreed <a href="https://nypost.com/2021/07/24/frito-lay-employees-end-20-day-strike-after-new-agreement-is-reached/">to give each worker
at least one day off in each week</a>.

<p>
How is it that any business operating in the US is allowed to deny
that to any worker?  I thought that US law required a lot more than
that.  But apparently not.  What's the origin of this problem?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Ballot_drop-off_boxes)
title: Ballot drop-off boxes
uri: Ballot-drop-off-boxes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Ballot_drop-off_boxes)
content:
 
<p>
A Wisconsin court reinterpreted state law <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/14/wisconsin-judge-rules-ballot-drop-boxes-unlawful">to prohibit ballot drop-off
boxes</a>.
  Those who could overrule this decision are Republicans, and won't do so.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Electricity_consumption)
title: Electricity consumption
uri: Electricity-consumption
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Electricity_consumption)
content:
 
<p>
Electricity consumption grew 7% last year, <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/14/energy/iea-electricity-climate/index.html">and renewable generation
grew only 6%</a>.
  Thus, fossil fuel consumption for generating electricity increased too.
This is going in the wrong direction.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Mail-in_ballots)
title: Mail-in ballots
uri: 2022-01-17-Mail-in-ballots
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Mail-in_ballots)
content:
 
<p>
New bureaucratic requirements in Texas <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/14/politics/texas-mail-in-ballot-application-rejections/index.html">are causing rejection of many
applications for mail-in ballots</a>.

<p>
In some counties, the rejection rate is 50%.  In other places, it is
less but it is substantial.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Sale_of_coal_leases)
title: Sale of coal leases
uri: Sale-of-coal-leases
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Sale_of_coal_leases)
content:
 
<p>
Biden <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/14/appalling-outrage-biden-prolongs-trump-coal-policy">allows continued sale of coal leases</a>.
  This caused a 14% increase in coal consumption in 2021 alone.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Vasectomies)
title: Vasectomies
uri: Vasectomies
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Vasectomies)
content:
 
<p>
Increasing numbers of young men are having vasectomies because they
recognize that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/jan/12/more-people-is-the-last-thing-this-planet-needs-the-men-getting-vasectomies-to-save-the-world">it's not good to have children in a world headed into
climate disaster</a>.

<p>
It's not good for the children, <a href="https://stallman.org/#apocalypse">and it's not good for the rest of the
world</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Safe_to_return)
title: Safe to return
uri: Safe-to-return
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Safe_to_return)
content:
 
<p>
The UK government is telling Afghan and Yemeni refugees <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/13/home-office-tells-afghan-and-yemeni-asylum-seekers-they-can-return-safely">that their home
countries are safe to return to</a>.

<p>
In the case of the specific Afghan refugee, it could well be true that
the Taliban have no specific interest in bothering him.  But
Afghanistan is a violent, dangerous place, and <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-jul-oct.html#30_October_2021_(Famine_afghan_hunger_winter)">is facing hunger because
of sanctions</a>.
  As for Yemen, that is still a war zone, facing hunger  because
of sanctions and combat.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Kroger)
title: Kroger
uri: Kroger
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Kroger)
content:
 
<p>
8000 workers in Kroger supermarkets near Denver <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/13/kroger-workers-strike-over-wages">are on strike</a>.

<p>
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/12/more-8000-kroger-grocery-workers-strike-colorado">More info</a>.

<p>
The big supermarket conglomerates nowadays use many different brands.
Wikipedia <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kroger#Chains">lists the names Kroger stores use</a>.
  These stores are labeled "King Sooper".


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Negotiation)
title: Negotiation
uri: Negotiation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Negotiation)
content:
 
<p>
Negotiation between the US and Russia has failed.  Putin demands that
NATO <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/13/what-has-been-achieved-after-three-rounds-of-talks-on-ukraine">make major concessions or he will attack</a>.

<p>
Putin would be more likely to forego war if Ukraine were more strongly
defended.  The US should have made sure to strengthen Ukraine enough
to deter war; there was no danger in doing that.

<p>
Threatening sanctions never had much chance of success.  Indeed,
sanctions have usually failed to change other countries' foreign
policy.
                                         They often hurt the people of
the targeted country, but its dictator generally doesn't care about
them.

<p>
The sanction that would worry Putin is to refuse to buy Russia's gas,
but Europe hasn't got the courage to do it.  Indeed, Russia is cutting
its gas sales to Europe <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/jan/12/russia-europe-gas-crisis-international-energy-agency-boss">to provoke distress there and make European
leaders timid</a>.
  The courageous response for Europe would be to boost construction
of renewable generation facilities, while meanwhile using temporary
measures to help people get along with less gas.

<p>
It would have been wiser all along <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2016-jul-oct.html#18_July_2016_(NATO)">for the US not to try to extend NATO to
Ukraine and Georgia</a>.
  But the way Putin has shaped this confrontation, to agree to the
demand now would be an abject surrender.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Cruelty_of_Islamic_law)
title: Cruelty of Islamic law
uri: Cruelty-of-Islamic-law
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Cruelty_of_Islamic_law)
content:
 
<p>
The bloodthirsty cruelty of Islamic law <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/13/indonesian-woman-flogged-100-times-for-adultery-man-gets-15-lashes">was on public display in Aceh</a>.
  Nearly all the Islamic states deny religious freedom to their inhabitants
by punishing blasphemy and by prohibiting Muslims from converting to
any other belief.


 


title: Urgent: Require corporations to publish the amount of their greenhouse emissions
uri: Urgent-Require-corporations-to-publish-the-amount-of-their-greenhouse
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Urgent:_Require_corporations_to_publish_the_amount_of_their_greenhouse_emissions)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Urgent:_Require_corporations_to_publish_the_amount_of_their_greenhouse_emissions)

content:
 
<p>

US citizens: call on the SEC to require large corporations to <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/tell-sec-wall-street-should-not-be-able-to-hide-its-climate-destruction">publish
the amount of their greenhouse gas emissions</a>.

 


title: Pass H.3453/S.2304 in Massachusetts
uri: Pass-H-3453-S-2304-in-Massachusetts
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Pass_H.3453%2FS.2304_in_Massachusetts)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Pass_H.3453%2FS.2304_in_Massachusetts)

content:
 
<p>

Citizens of Massachusetts: call on your state legislators to pass
 H.3453/S.2304, to <a href="https://action.aclu.org/send-message/tell-lawmakers-end-debt-based-drivers-license-suspensions-0">stop jailing people and suspending their driving
 licenses over debt</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Future_corruption_probes)
title: Future corruption probes
uri: Future-corruption-probes
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Future_corruption_probes)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *[New York City mayor] Eric Adams Appoints Deputy Patsy For
<a href="https://www.theonion.com/eric-adams-appoints-deputy-patsy-for-all-future-corrupt-1848348850">All Future Corruption Probes</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_((satire)_1-Second_workout)
title: (satire) 1-Second workout
uri: (satire)-1-Second-workout
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_((satire)_1-Second_workout)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *The Onion's <a href="https://www.theonion.com/the-onion-s-1-second-workout-1848348930">1-Second Workout</a>.*

 


title: Canada's national childcare system
uri: Canada-s-national-childcare-system
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Canada's_national_childcare_system)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Canada's_national_childcare_system)

content:
 
<p>

Last year Canada set up a <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/13/after-decades-delay-canadas-national-child-care-plan-proves-strong-public-systems">national childcare system</a> for all parents
that need it.  It is a big success.

 


title: Senator Sinema pretends to support voting rights
uri: Senator-Sinema-pretends-to-support-voting-rights
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Senator_Sinema_pretends_to_support_voting_rights)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Senator_Sinema_pretends_to_support_voting_rights)

content:
 
<p>

Senator Sinema <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/shame-her-sinema-sparks-fury-choosing-filibuster-over-democracy">pretends to support voting rights</a>, but she doesn't
really support them much if she would drop them to protect the
filibuster.

 


title: Council for environmental quality
uri: Council-for-environmental-quality
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Council_for_environmental_quality)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Council_for_environmental_quality)

content:
 
<p>

Two of the main officials of the <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/environmental-justice-advocates-raise-alarm-after-amid-white-house-exits">Council for Environmental Quality
have recently quit</a>.
<p>
One can guess that they feel it is impossible to achieved what they
hoped to do, a year ago.  They may be disappointed with Biden.  Or
they may be disappointed with Sinema and Manchin's defeat of Biden's
climate defense legislation.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Doctors_protested_Spotify)
title: Doctors protested Spotify
uri: Doctors-protested-Spotify
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Doctors_protested_Spotify)
content:
 
<p>

Many doctors <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/menace-public-health-270-doctors-denounce-covid-misinformation-joe-rogan">protested Spotify</a> for letting Joe Rogan distribute
vaccine disinformation.

 


title: Contract tracing to investigate a crime
uri: Contract-tracing-to-investigate-a-crime
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Contract_tracing_to_investigate_a_crime)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Contract_tracing_to_investigate_a_crime)

content:
 
<p>

Germany's contact tracing organization rebuked German thugs for <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20220118063854/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2022/01/13/german-covid-contact-tracing-app-luca/">using
contact tracing data to investigate a crime</a>.
<p>
The contact tracer said that the system is designed to deny the <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a>
access to the data, and speculated the <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> fabricated a fake Covid
contact to get access.
<p>
It is extremely short-sighted for <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> to do this.  The benefit of
finding one criminal is not worth the cost of undermining trust in
the state.

 


title: (satire) China invented English language
uri: (satire)-China-invented-English-language
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_((satire)_China_invented_English_language)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_((satire)_China_invented_English_language)

content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Newly Uncovered Manuscript Reveals <a href="https://www.theonion.com/newly-uncovered-manuscript-reveals-china-invented-engli-1848234404">China Invented English
Language 700 Years Before Western World</a>.*

 


title: How Oath Keepers plotted an armed coup
uri: How-Oath-Keepers-plotted-an-armed-coup
content: <p> *Guns, ammo … even a boat: how Oath Keepers <a href="">plotted an armed coup</a>.*
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(How_Oath_Keepers_plotted_an_armed_coup)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(How_Oath_Keepers_plotted_an_armed_coup)


title: US claims Russia planning 'false-flag' operation
uri: US-claims-Russia-planning-false-flag-operation
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(US_claims_Russia_planning_'false-flag'_operation)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(US_claims_Russia_planning_'false-flag'_operation)

content:
 
<p>

*US claims Russia <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/14/us-russia-false-flag-ukraine-attack-claim">planning ‘false-flag’ operation</a> to justify Ukraine
 invasion.*
<p>
Putin's seizure of Crimea was a kind of false-flag operation, carried
out by Russian soldiers disguised as something other than Russian
soldiers.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Dramatic_form_of_tragedy)
title: Dramatic form of tragedy
uri: Dramatic-form-of-tragedy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Dramatic_form_of_tragedy)
content:
 
<p>

*   <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/15/tragedy-pandemics-climate-crisis-algorithms-tech-drama">Pandemics, the climate crisis and the algorithms used by tech giants</a>
   feel too amorphous to squeeze into the dramatic form [of tragedy].*

 


title: Global heating linked to premature birth
uri: Global-heating-linked-to-premature-birth
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Global_heating_linked_to_premature_birth)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Global_heating_linked_to_premature_birth)

content:
 
<p>

*Global heating <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/15/global-heating-linked-early-birth-damage-babies-health">linked to [premature] birth and damage to babies' health</a>,
scientists find.* Also to obesity.

 


title: Tough luck if you get Covid at work
uri: Tough-luck-if-you-get-Covid-at-work
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Tough_luck_if_you_get_Covid_at_work)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Tough_luck_if_you_get_Covid_at_work)

content:
 
<p>

*The US supreme court to Americans: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/14/the-us-supreme-court-to-americans-tough-luck-if-you-get-covid-at-work">tough luck if you get Covid at work</a>.*

 


title: Extinction Rebellion activists cleared
uri: Extinction-Rebellion-activists-cleared
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Extinction_Rebellion_activists_cleared)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Extinction_Rebellion_activists_cleared)

content:
 
<p>

*Extinction Rebellion activists <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/14/extinction-rebellion-activists-cleared-london-rush-hour-2019">cleared over London rush hour disruption</a>.*
<p>
It looks like the British public understand what is really at stake
when the same authorities that disregard the climate danger
prosecute those who try to wake people up.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Letting_climate_disaster_build)
title: Letting climate disaster build
uri: Letting-climate-disaster-build
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Letting_climate_disaster_build)
content:
 
<p>

Powell, the Republican that Biden continued as head of the Federal
Reserve, is <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/15/federal-reserve-climate-jerome-powell/">willing to let climate disaster build up</a> for fear of the
pain of making changes to prevent it.
<p>
That's like an idiot who won't get dental treatment for a cavity or
won't get tested for cancer.  The longer you let these things go,
the worse they get.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Tigray_running_out_of_insulin)
title: Tigray running out of insulin
uri: Tigray-running-out-of-insulin
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Tigray_running_out_of_insulin)
content:
 
<p>

Tigray is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2022/jan/15/medics-in-tigray-plead-with-ethiopia-for-insulin-airlift-as-supplies-run-out">running out of insulin</a>, as no supplies have reached that
region in months.
<p>
Tigray's government says that Ethiopia is blockading Tigray.
Ethiopia's government says that Tigrayan forces are attacking aid
trucks.  The latter is a priori implausible, so I think that a
blockade is the real cause.
<p>
It is easy for the Ethiopian government to block supply from Ethiopia.
Why can't supplies be brought in from Sudan?  Is it possible to
air-drop medicine?

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Oil_spill_poisoned_seaweed_farms)
title: Oil spill poisoned seaweed farms
uri: Oil-spill-poisoned-seaweed-farms
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Oil_spill_poisoned_seaweed_farms)
content:
 
<p>

In 2009, a giant oil spill poisoned seaweed farms of East Timor and
Indonesia.  The company that let it happen has resisted in court, and
the people's whose farms are still poisoned <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/16/very-hard-life-now-12-years-after-the-montara-oil-spill-indonesians-are-still-fighting-to-be-heard">have received no compensation</a>.

 


title: Objecting to meetings to allow generic vaccines
uri: Objecting-to-meetings-to-allow-generic-vaccines
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Objecting_to_meetings_to_allow_generic_vaccines)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Objecting_to_meetings_to_allow_generic_vaccines)

content:
 
<p>

The EU objects to holding a meeting of the WTO to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/11/eu-says-premature-have-urgent-wto-meeting-covid-19">consider allowing
generic vaccines</a> while the pandemic is going on.
<p>
I'm surprised they aren't ashamed of making such a transparently bogus
excuse.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_((satire)_Pig_rib_transplant)
title: (satire) Pig rib transplant
uri: (satire)-Pig-rib-transplant
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_((satire)_Pig_rib_transplant)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Breakthrough Procedure Allows Surgeons To <a href="https://www.theonion.com/breakthrough-procedure-allows-surgeons-to-transplant-pi-1848340063">Transplant Pig Rib
Directly Into Human Mouth</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Loss_of_US_social_cohesion)
title: Loss of US social cohesion
uri: Loss-of-US-social-cohesion
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#17_January_2022_(Loss_of_US_social_cohesion)
content:
 
<p>

The US is <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/12/social-cohesion-vital-and-were-losing-it">losing the social cohesion that is needed for any country to
thrive</a>.  What could possibly get it back?
<p>
It is cute to describe political camps as "tribes", but when one of
the camps aims to abolish democracy, spread disease and surrender the
climate battle, letting that camp "win" for a while would allow them
to create even bigger and broader deadly strife.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Suppressing_all_languages)
title: Suppressing all languages
uri: Suppressing-all-languages
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Suppressing_all_languages)
content:
 
<p>
China is firmly suppressing <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/16/chinese-dialects-in-decline-as-government-enforces-mandarin">all languages other than Mandarin</a>.
  Not only the languages of non-Chinese peoples, such as Tibetan and
Uyghur, are under attack: even the other Chinese languages, such as
Shanghainese and Cantonese, are being eliminated in China.

<p>
This reminds me of what the US and Canada did to indigenous languages
&mdash; and, with the Uyghur, China is using even more cruelty
                                                          than the US
  and Canada
           used.

<p>
The other Chinese languages are traditionally called "Chinese
dialects" in English, but that is a misnomer.  They are not dialects
of Mandarin; they are far too different for that.

<p>
Cantonese will survive among people of Chinese origin in countries to
the south, such as Vietnam and Singapore.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Calling_for_genocide)
title: Calling for genocide
uri: Calling-for-genocide
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Calling_for_genocide)
content:
 
<p>
Some of India's Hindu extremists are calling for genocide of Muslims,
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/14/asia/india-hindu-extremist-groups-intl-hnk-dst/index.html">with tacit support from the ruling Hindu-extremist party</a>.

<p>
Some of them call for genocide against Christians.  Hindu extremists
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#1_January_2022_(Persecution_of_India's_Christians)">are persecuting Christians already</a>.
  Surely they won't
spare Buddhists.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Concentrating_wealth)
title: Concentrating wealth
uri: Concentrating-wealth
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Concentrating_wealth)
content:
 
<p>
Just 0.01% of bitcoin holders control 27% of the existing bitcoin.
Thus, bitcoin <a href="https://www.maxim.com/news/bitcoins-top-one-percent-controls-vast-majority-of-crypto-wealth/">is basically a system for concentrating wealth</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Students_on_strike)
title: Students on strike
uri: Students-on-strike
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Students_on_strike)
content:
 
<p>
Students in some US cities are going on strike, demanding <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/xgdaqw/students-are-doing-what-adults-wont-in-the-fight-against-omicron">either
protective masks and testing, or remote education</a>.

<p>
I understand their wish for remote education, for safety.
Unfortunately, the way US schools normally do remote education
is a threat to their freedom.  Schools should not ask students
<a href="https://gnu.org/education/edu-schools.html">to run a nonfree program or give data to an online dis-service</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Blocking_voting_rights_bills)
title: Blocking voting rights bills
uri: Blocking-voting-rights-bills
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Blocking_voting_rights_bills)
content:
 
<p>
Manchin and Sinema say they will block the voting rights bills, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/manchin-joins-sinema-destroying-democratic-hopes-pass-voting-rights">by
refusing to vote an exception to the filibuster for them</a>.

<p>
I heard that Schumer plans to have a floor vote on this question on
Wednesday, to put them on the spot.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Special_drawing_rights)
title: Special drawing rights
uri: Special-drawing-rights
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Special_drawing_rights)
content:
 
<p>
The IMF should reallocate its "special drawing rights" to help poor
countries <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/14/heres-how-to-repay-developing-nations-for-colonialism-and-fight-the-climate-crisis">make up for the harm done by slavery and colonialism</a>.

<p>
I see one flaw in the article: it talks about "solutions" for the
climate crisis in a way that seems shifty.  Does this refer to efforts
to reduce and stop <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a>, which is treating the disease, or
does it refer to assuaging some of the immediate symptoms for the
short term?  The former will help save civilization and nature; the
latter will only help delay some of the damage for a few decades.

<p>
We must insist on this distinction so we can focus on the long term.


 


title: Cyber-attacks on government web sites
uri: Cyber-attacks-on-government-web-sites
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Cyber-attacks_on_government_web_sites)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Cyber-attacks_on_government_web_sites)

content:
 
<p>
Russia is apparently <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/14/ukraine-massive-cyber-attack-government-websites-suspected-russian-hackers">making cyber-attacks against Ukrainian government
web sites</a>.


 


title: What more could Novak Djokovic have done?
uri: What-more-could-Novak-Djokovic-have-done
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(What_more_could_Novak_Djokovic_have_done?)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(What_more_could_Novak_Djokovic_have_done?)

content:
 
<p>
*What more could Novak Djokovic have done? <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/14/what-more-could-novak-djokovic-have-done-get-vaccinated-isolate-and-get-the-facts-right">Get vaccinated, isolate and
get the facts right</a>.*

<p>
The Australian government should get its policies straight, and avoid
confusion in its decisions, but there's no reason to give anyone
permission to enter who is unvaccinated by choice.


 


title: Vaccination for public transit usage
uri: Vaccination-for-public-transit-usage
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Vaccination_for_public_transit_usage)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Vaccination_for_public_transit_usage)

content:
 
<p>
The Philippines will require vaccination <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/14/philippines-accused-of-being-anti-poor-with-public-transport-ban-on-covid-unvaccinated">as a condition for using
public transit</a>.

<p>
The article does not state whether poor people can easily get
vaccinated gratis.  If they cannot, that puts them in danger;
furthermore, this requirement amounts to discrimination.

<p>
However, if everyone can get vaccinated, that is their solution:
to get vaccinated.

<p>
The policy properly offers exemptions for those who, for medical
reasons, cannot be vaccinated.


 


title: Antisocial media posts leading to Jan 6
uri: Antisocial-media-posts-leading-to-Jan-6
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Antisocial_media_posts_leading_to_Jan_6)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Antisocial_media_posts_leading_to_Jan_6)

content:
 
<p>
The Jan 6 attack investigation committee will investigate how various
antisocial media companies handled postings leading up to the attack,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/13/capitol-attack-subpoena-google-facebook-twitter">and how they interpreted and enforced their rules</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Filibuster)
title: Filibuster
uri: 2022-01-18-Filibuster
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Filibuster)
content:
 
<p>
*Timeline of Filibuster Helps Explain <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/12/timeline-filibuster-helps-explain-why-so-many-say-it-now-needs-go">Why So Many Say It Now Needs to Go</a>.*

<p>
For decades, the filibuster has been extremely convenient for
right-wing forces to block legislation to reduce racism.

<p>
If Republicans succeed in imposing minority rule, the remaining Senate
Democrats might find it useful &mdash; but the Republicans would surely
eliminate it immediately if it got in their way.  Most Republicans
believe victory overrides any and all principles; the few who do not,
don't have any principles against imposed minority rule.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Overthrow_of_democracy)
title: Overthrow of democracy
uri: Overthrow-of-democracy
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Overthrow_of_democracy)
content:
 
<p>
*The [possible] Overthrow of American Democracy: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/12/overthrow-american-democracy-scorecard-trumps-next-coup">A Scorecard for [the
 corrupter]'s Next Coup</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Cultural_bigotry)
title: Cultural bigotry
uri: Cultural-bigotry
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Cultural_bigotry)
content:
 
<p>
The triumphal march of cultural bigotry advances ever onward: there is
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2022/jan/12/helen-mirren-golda-meir-maureen-lipman-david-baddiel-row-jews-bojack-horseman">a movement to allow only Jews to play parts that are Jewish</a>.

<p>
There are many intersecting subsets of Americans (for instance) who
have a certain aspect of their culture in common.  New Yorkers tend to
have much in common, and so do Texans.  But not all New Yorkers are
similar, nor all Texans, nor are all Jews.  With equal validity,
casting directors could be compelled to classify parts and actors into
lots of small pigeonholes.

<p>
Here's a part for a white Midwestern Evangelical Christian.  There's
one for an Irish Protestant.  And that one, for a Texan Evangelical
from Austin.  Another role is someone from Dallas.  Yet another, from
a rural area near the Mexican border.  These cultures are not the
same.

<p>
Here's a part for Hasidic Jew of Polish background, from Brooklyn.
That part likewise, calls for a Jew of Polish extraction, but
Orthodox.  There's a part for a mostly assimilated not-very-religious
Jew from a New Jersey suburb, who went to a prestigious university,
like per parents.  And another for one who went to a community
college.  These cultures are not the same either.  Which of those
differences are the most important?

<p>
Who should be allowed to play a transsexual Nazi Eskimo (as suggested in
"Can't Watch This", by Weird Al Yankovic)?  Or a neo-Nazi playwright
(as in The Producers)?  Should those roles be limited to actors who
are real American Nazis?

<p>
Productions won't carry this to the point where it makes casting
impossible.  But those are not morally significant questions &mdash; only
variations among groups of people.  If it is ok to ignore most of
these divisions, then it is ok to consider only the ones that are
important for good performance of any particular role.  Along with
everything else that is important for a good performance.

<p>
If gentiles are forbidden to play Jewish parts, gentile actors will
demand, for fairness, that Jews be forbidden to play gentile parts.
Here are some Jewish actors who have been very successful playing
non-Jewish parts, and might have been barred by cultural bigotry.

<p>
Jamie Lee Curtis, Tony Curtis, Kirk Douglas, Robert Downey Jr, Douglas Fairbanks Jr,<br>
Mira Furlan, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Dustin Hoffman, Kate Hudson, Harvey Keitel, Hedy Lamarr,<br>
Peter Lorre, Leonard Nimoy, Sean Penn, Rhea Jo Perlman, William Shatner, Eli Wallach,<br>
all three stooges.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Prisoners_hunger_strike)
title: Prisoners hunger strike
uri: Prisoners-hunger-strike
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Prisoners_hunger_strike)
content:
 
<p>
200 prisoners in New York City's Riker's Island jail are on hunger strike
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/13/200-inmates-hunger-strike-over-inhumane-rikers-island">to condemn the dangerous conditions that they are subjected to</a>.



 


title: Americans accustomed to being walled off
uri: Americans-accustomed-to-being-walled-off
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Americans_accustomed_to_being_walled_off)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Americans_accustomed_to_being_walled_off)

content:
 
<p>

An anthropologist says many Americans have become <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/global/2022/jan/16/look-around-you-why-increasingly-polarized">accustomed to
walling themselves off from their surroundings</a> &mdash; that could be why
they wanted a wall against Mexico.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(UK_removed_a_man's_citizenship)
title: UK removed a man's citizenship
uri: UK-removed-a-man-s-citizenship
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(UK_removed_a_man's_citizenship)
content:
 
<p>

The UK took away a man's citizenship, claiming that was OK because in
theory he could apply Bangladeshi citizenship.  But in fact he
couldn't, so the UK had to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2022/jan/16/british-man-made-stateless-by-home-office-has-citizenship-reinstated">restore his citizenship</a>.
<p>
Meanwhile, his youngest daughter, born while he was exiled, is still
denied British citizenship, perhaps forever.
<p>
He was never told any reason for his five-year exile, and never
accused of a crime.

 


title: North Korean defectors face poverty
uri: North-Korean-defectors-face-poverty
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(North_Korean_defectors_face_poverty)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(North_Korean_defectors_face_poverty)

content:
 
<p>

North Korean defectors in South Korea <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/16/second-thoughts-what-makes-north-korean-defectors-want-to-go-back">face a life of poverty</a> (despite
government aid) and loneliness.

 


title: Report suggests Russia could conquer Ukraine
uri: Report-suggests-Russia-could-conquer-Ukraine
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Report_suggests_Russia_could_conquer_Ukraine)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Report_suggests_Russia_could_conquer_Ukraine)

content:
 
<p>

A review of the military situation in Ukraine suggests that Russia
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/10/what-would-be-russia-military-options-in-ukraine-invasion">could probably conquer Ukraine</a>, but could not occupy it for long.
<p>
Russia might attack through Belarus.  Or it might try to capture only
parts of Eastern Ukraine.
<p>
I am skeptical of the idea of deterring that attack by threatening
economic sanctions, because that approach has <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jan-apr.html#14_February_2021_(Economic_Warfare)">almost never succeeded</a>
in changing a country's policies.

<p>
This suggests to me that the US and NATO should announce a commitment
to defend Ukraine from an overt invasion by Russia, and move divisions
into Poland (if Poland agrees) near the frontiers with Ukraine and
Belarus.
<p>
If Russia attacks Ukraine through Belarus, it would be legitimate and
easy to send NATO troops into Belarus to fight the Russian troops
there.  This would probably spark an uprising, as it would offer an
opportunity to overthrow Lukashenko.  The Belarusian army would be
unable to suppress an uprising while facing invading forces.  Its
units might even accept the invitation to change sides, or remain in
their bases doing nothing.
<p>
I think this would make Putin hesitate to launch an invasion.  He
might engage in destabilization, but Ukraine does not need NATO troops
to deal with that.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Women_protested_in_Kabul)
title: Women protested in Kabul
uri: Women-protested-in-Kabul
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Women_protested_in_Kabul)
content:
 
<p>

20 women protested in Kabul, standing on a street and chanting
"equality and justice" with signs.  Taliban thugs came and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/16/taliban-forces-pepper-spray-women-rights-protesters-kabul">shot them
with pepper spray</a>.
<p>
Even racist American <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> probably wouldn't attack 20 Black Lives Matter
supporters with pepper spray.
<p>
The Taliban <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> stole the phone from a bystander who was making a
video.  American <a href="/glossary.html#thug">thugs</a> often do that sort of thing.  It is despicable
in either country: if you know your action will look like cruelty,
don't do it!

 


title: Strife that killed over 200 people in Kazakhstan
uri: Strife-that-killed-over-200-people-in-Kazakhstan
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Strife_that_killed_over_200_people_in_Kazakhstan)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Strife_that_killed_over_200_people_in_Kazakhstan)

content:
 
<p>

The strife that <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/16/kazakhstan-authorities-raise-death-toll-from-unrest-to-225">killed over 200 people in Kazakhstan</a>
seems to have been a power struggle between Nazarbayev, the retired ruler, and the
new <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/16/where-is-kazakhstans-former-longtime-leader-nursultan-nazarbayev">president Tokayev</a>, who was supposed to preserve the power of
Nazarbayev's family.
<p>
Maybe the truck drivers' protests were organized by Tokayev's
supporters.  Or maybe they were real popular protests, and Tokayev
hijacked them for his own ends.  I don't know how we can find out.

 


title: Biden administration's lousy job protecting from Covid-19
uri: Biden-administration-s-lousy-job-protecting-from-Covid-19
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Biden_administration's_lousy_job_protecting_from_Covid-19)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Biden_administration's_lousy_job_protecting_from_Covid-19)

content:
 
<p>

The Biden administration has done a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/15/omicron-covid-joe-biden-administration">lousy job of protecting the US
from Covid-19</a>.  It relied on vaccines alone, without enough effort to
use other methods, such as masks that effectively protect the wearer
(as well as others), distancing, and testing.
<p>
Much of the problem was due to intentional obstruction by the
disease-spreader party, and some of it was surely a matter of bowing
to powerful plutocratic forces.  But if Biden had pushed visibly for a
better response, he would be able to blame those enemies for the
failure.

 


title: Corporate Polluters want us distracted
uri: Corporate-Polluters-want-us-distracted
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Corporate_Polluters_want_us_distracted)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Corporate_Polluters_want_us_distracted)

content:
 
<p>

*Corporate Polluters <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/15/rest-important-corporate-polluters-want-us-stay-distracted">Want Us to Stay Distracted</a>.*

 


title: Reasons OAS Secretary-General must go
uri: Reasons-OAS-Secretary-General-must-go
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Reasons_OAS_Secretary-General_must_go)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Reasons_OAS_Secretary-General_must_go)

content:
 
<p>

*<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/15/10-reasons-oas-secretary-general-must-go">10 Reasons</a> the OAS Secretary-General Must Go.*

 


title: Time for Corporate Crime Database
uri: Time-for-Corporate-Crime-Database
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Time_for_Corporate_Crime_Database)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Time_for_Corporate_Crime_Database)

content:
 
<p>

Ralph Nader: *Time for Attorney General Garland to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/15/time-ag-garland-create-corporate-crime-database">Create Corporate
Crime Database</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(New_year's_resolutions_for_NPR)
title: New year's resolutions for NPR
uri: New-year-s-resolutions-for-NPR
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(New_year's_resolutions_for_NPR)
content:
 
<p>

Ralph Nader: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/15/eight-new-years-resolutions-npr-consider-now">Eight New Year's Resolutions</a> for NPR to Consider Now.
<p>
I would add: stop running commercials!  I <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2015-may-aug.html#25_May_2015_(NPR)">stopped donating</a> to my local
NPR when I heard commercials on it &mdash; not messages of thanks for a
donation, but messages that companies paid it to read &mdash; and I also
greatly reduced my listening to it.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Spoof_interview_fooled_people)
title: Spoof interview fooled people
uri: Spoof-interview-fooled-people
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Spoof_interview_fooled_people)
content:
 
<p>

A spoof interview with a spoof member of the UK parliament <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2022/jan/15/rosie-holt-the-satirist-whose-tory-mp-video-had-so-many-fooled">fooled
people</a> &mdash; it seemed normal for members of parliament to make absurd
excuses.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Huntington_Beach_oil_spill)
title: Huntington Beach oil spill
uri: Huntington-Beach-oil-spill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Huntington_Beach_oil_spill)
content:
 
<p>

There is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/oct/06/huntington-beach-oil-spill-may-permanently-endanger-birds">no way to clean up the oil that spilled on Huntington Beach</a>
last year, and it may continue harming seabirds and marine animals for a
long time.

 


title: More volcanic eruptions and tsunamis
uri: More-volcanic-eruptions-and-tsunamis
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(More_volcanic_eruptions_and_tsunamis)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(More_volcanic_eruptions_and_tsunamis)

content:
 
<p>

As <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">global heating</a> melts icecaps, the added weight of the ocean will cause
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/16/tongas-volcanic-tsunami-foreshadows-effects-glacier-melt-co2">more volcanic eruptions and tsunamis</a>.

 


title: Israel forcing Palestinians out of Sheikh Jarrah
uri: Israel-forcing-Palestinians-out-of-Sheikh-Jarrah
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Israel_forcing_Palestinians_out_of_Sheikh_Jarrah)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Israel_forcing_Palestinians_out_of_Sheikh_Jarrah)

content:
 
<p>

Israel is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/17/israel-police-standoff-palestinians-sheikh-jarrah-eviction-jerusalem">trying to force Palestinians out of Sheikh Jarrah</a>,
where many families have lived since before 1967.  One man says
he will set himself on fire rather than leave.
<p>
More <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2020-sep-dec.html#13_December_2020_(Israel">about Sheikh Jarrah and how this relates to things</a>.

 


title: Why it is important to protect yourself from Omicron
uri: Why-it-is-important-to-protect-yourself-from-Omicron
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Why_it_is_important_to_protect_yourself_from_Omicron)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Why_it_is_important_to_protect_yourself_from_Omicron)

content:
 
<p>

Why it is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/16/no-intention-of-getting-infected-understanding-omicrons-severity">very important to protect yourself from catching Omicron</a>.

 


title: Rivers polluted without consequence
uri: Rivers-polluted-without-consequence
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Rivers_polluted_without_consequence)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Rivers_polluted_without_consequence)

content:
 
<p>

*This is what "cutting red tape" gets you: <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/17/cutting-red-tape-rivers-polluted-england-water-regulators">rivers polluted without
 consequence</a>.*
<p>
Our safety depends on enforcement of safety regulations;
that's one of the many missions for which <a href="/articles/why-we-need-the-state.html">we need the state</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Long_hours_for_NHS_doctors)
title: Long hours for NHS doctors
uri: Long-hours-for-NHS-doctors
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Long_hours_for_NHS_doctors)
content:
 
<p>

The UK's NHS doctors are working such long hours that they are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/17/sleep-deprived-nhs-doctors-realised-my-error-when-patient-collapsed">losing
track of their actions</a> while treating patients.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Obscuring_party_donations)
title: Obscuring party donations
uri: Obscuring-party-donations
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Obscuring_party_donations)
content:
 
<p>

*As long as party donations can be obscured, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/17/party-donations-british-politics-funding-pandora-amendments-elections-bill">British politics will not be clean</a>.*

 


title: Kashmir's independent press club shut down
uri: Kashmir-s-independent-press-club-shut-down
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Kashmir's_independent_press_club_shut_down)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Kashmir's_independent_press_club_shut_down)

content:
 
<p>

India has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/17/kashmir-independent-press-club-shut-down-in-media-crackdown">shut down Kashmir's independent press club</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Pegasus_spyware)
title: Pegasus spyware
uri: 2022-01-19-Pegasus-spyware
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Pegasus_spyware)
content:
 
<p>
  *Investigation alleges Israeli police <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2022/jan/18/israeli-citizens-targeted-by-police-using-pegasus-spyware-report-claims">carried out phone intercepts
  [using Pegasus spyware] without court supervision or monitoring of
  how data was used</a>.*
<p>
  Pegasus was used to <a href="https://theintercept.com/2022/01/18/pegasus-spyware-nso-group-women-activists-journalists/">snoop on dozens of journalists and human rights
  activists in Bahrain and Jordan</a>.

 


title: Australia immigration copies travelers' phone contents
uri: Australia-immigration-copies-travelers-phone-contents
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Australia_immigration_copies_travelers'_phone_contents)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Australia_immigration_copies_travelers'_phone_contents)

content:
 
<p>
  Australia's immigration agency <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/18/returning-travellers-made-to-hand-over-phones-and-passcodes-to-australian-border-force">takes travelers' phones and copies
  their contents</a>,
  much as the US does.
<p>
  People who are concerned about this danger don't bring phones when
  they travel.  They get a phone in the destination country and leave it
  there when they depart it.

 


title: (Satire) Smart home security camera
uri: (Satire)-Smart-home-security-camera
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_((Satire)_Smart_home_security_camera)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_((Satire)_Smart_home_security_camera)

content:
 
<p>
  (satire) *Smart Home Security Camera <a href="https://www.theonion.com/smart-home-security-camera-conspires-with-burglars-in-e-1848233907">Conspires With Burglars In
  Exchange For Half The Loot</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Dr._King)
title: Dr. King
uri: Dr-King
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Dr._King)
content:
 
<p>
  Sanders: *As We Honor Dr. King, We <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/17/we-honor-dr-king-we-must-remember-what-he-truly-stood">Must Remember What He Truly Stood For</a>.*
<p>
  Some people cite King to attack the Liberals of the day, but none of these
  ideas was outside the range of what American Liberals supported.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Populism)
title: Populism
uri: Populism
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Populism)
content:
 
<p>
  *In an era of rightwing populism, we <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/18/in-an-era-of-rightwing-populism-we-cannot-destroy-democracy-in-order-to-save-it">cannot destroy democracy in order to save it</a>.*

 


title: UK government aims to stop end-to-end encryption
uri: UK-government-aims-to-stop-end-to-end-encryption
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(UK_government_aims_to_stop_end-to-end_encryption)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(UK_government_aims_to_stop_end-to-end_encryption)

content:
 
<p>
  The UK government is <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/jan/18/campaign-aims-to-stop-facebook-encryption-plans-over-child-abuse-fears">campaigning against end-to-end encryption, presenting this
  as a way to prevent "child sexual abuse"</a>.
<p>
  My understanding is that real sexual abuse of real children is usually
  carried out by relatives and friends of the family.  The abusers don't
  use the internet either to carry out that abuse or to meet the
  children.
<p>
  Some points in the article suggest that the word "child" is being
  misapplied to adolescents.  What adolescents need is help navigating
  the area of sex, showing them how to avoid bad trysts and
  relationships and find good ones.

 


title: Torture complaint against president of Interpol
uri: Torture-complaint-against-president-of-Interpol
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Torture_complaint_against_president_of_Interpol)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Torture_complaint_against_president_of_Interpol)

content:
 
<p>
*Torture complaint filed <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/18/torture-complaint-filed-against-new-president-of-interpol">against new president of Interpol</a>.*
  It has been filed with a French court on the occasion of his visit
to Interpol headquarters in France, on behalf of two people who were
tortured in the UAE.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Police_and_crime_bill)
title: Police and crime bill
uri: Police-and-crime-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Police_and_crime_bill)
content:
 
<p>
*I study crowds &mdash; that’s why I know <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/18/study-crowds-police-crime-bill-less-safe-priti-patel">the [UK's] police and crime bill
will make us less safe</a>.*

<p>
*   The irony is that the repressive power of the police, supposedly the
   means of stopping violence, is actually the source of most violence
   in crowd events &mdash; either directly (the police inflict far more violence
   than is inflicted upon them) or indirectly (the repression of
   protesters' rights inflames previously peaceable crowds).*


 


title: Global level of chemical pollution
uri: Global-level-of-chemical-pollution
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Global_level_of_chemical_pollution)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Global_level_of_chemical_pollution)

content:
 
<p>
Some scientists assert that the global level of chemical pollution <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/18/chemical-pollution-has-passed-safe-limit-for-humanity-say-scientists">threatens
to destabilize global ecosystems</a>.

<p>
This threat would be on top of that of <a href="/glossary.html#climate">climate mayhem</a>, which is
already destabilizing global ecosystems.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Dissidents_living_overseas)
title: Dissidents living overseas
uri: Dissidents-living-overseas
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Dissidents_living_overseas)
content:
 
<p>
China has got its hands <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/18/china-forced-2500-fugitives-back-from-overseas-during-pandemic-report-finds">on 2500 dissidents who were living overseas</a>.

<p>
In some cases this was done by kidnapping.  In some cases, China used Interpol.
Some returned "voluntarily" after China used their relatives as hostages.

<p>
Sometimes ordinary extradition sufficed, since China does not hesitate to
fabricate accusations of nonpolitical "crimes".

<p>
The US <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2004-mar-jun.html#18 May 2004 (US-sponsored Torture)">has used relatives as hostages to try to make people spy for the US</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Bipartisanship)
title: Bipartisanship
uri: 2022-01-19-Bipartisanship
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Bipartisanship)
content:
 
<p>
*Another 'Big Lie' Corporatists Like to Tell: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/17/another-big-lie-corporatists-tell-bipartisanship-will-lead-progress">Bipartisanship Will Lead to
Progress</a>.*

<p>
I prefer the term "plutocracy" to "corporatocracy", because the
crucial thing about that bad system is that the rich wield the power.
Their use of corporations to do so is a detail of methods.

<p>
Bipartisanship existed in the US when both the major parties in the US
were working for the rich.  To the extent that Democrats worked for
working people, or disprivileged racial groups, that broke the
bipartisanship.

<p>
We are seeing a dangerous outbreak of bipartisanship right now:
various congresscritters claim that the Biden administration has
implemented the No Surprises Act &mdash; which is meant to prevent
shocking, unexpectedly high medical bills &mdash; <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/17/lawmakers-seek-weaken-ban-surprise-medical-bills">in an excessively
effective fashion</a>.
  They say the law was not supposed to work so effectively.

<p>
One of them, Richard Neale, was reelected in 2020 by means of dirty
tricks against his opponent.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Hiring_more_thugs)
title: Hiring more thugs
uri: Hiring-more-thugs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Hiring_more_thugs)
content:
 
<p>
New York's new mayor, an ex-<a href="/glossary.html#thug">thug</a> himself, has seized on a small
increase in street crime <a href="https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2022/1/16/2075060/-Do-We-Really-Need-More-Police">as an excuse to hire a lot more thugs</a>.

<p>
The article proposes better ways to spend that money on reducing
low-level crime, without increasing repression.

<p>
The most destructive crimes in the US are committed by powerful
companies, <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#18_January_2022_(Time_for_Corporate_Crime_Database)">and can't be stopped at the level of city governments</a>.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Placebo_effect)
title: Placebo effect
uri: Placebo-effect
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Placebo_effect)
content:
 
<p>
  Most "negative reactions" to some Covid-19 vaccines are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/jan/18/nocebo-effect-two-thirds-of-covid-jab-reactions-not-caused-by-vaccine-study-suggests">not caused by
  the vaccine itself; they result are caused by the negative form of the
  placebo effect</a>.

 


title: Students demanding for proper Covid protection
uri: Students-demanding-for-proper-Covid-protection
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Students_demanding_for_proper_Covid_protection)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Students_demanding_for_proper_Covid_protection)

content:
 
<p>
  Students in many US cities <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/18/school-strikes-covid-safety-omicron-oakland">have demanded proper Covid protection
  or they will refuse to go to school</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Targeted_advertising)
title: Targeted advertising
uri: 2022-01-20-Targeted-advertising
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Targeted_advertising)
content:
 
<p>
  A bill in the US Congress would try to <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/akv7nz/law-to-ban-surveillance-advertising">prohibit targeted advertising
  based on certain personal characteristics, such as Google does</a>.
  For instance, it would be forbidden to target an ad to "gay men".
<p>
  Would the bill also forbid targeting an ad to a complicated criterion,
  which Google chose to correlate well with being a gay man?  I think
  that's what Google actually does.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Annual_wealth_tax)
title: Annual wealth tax
uri: Annual-wealth-tax
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Annual_wealth_tax)
content:
 
<p>
  *An annual wealth tax targeting the world's millionaires and
  billionaires would <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/18/tax-global-mega-rich-could-help-lift-23-billion-out-poverty">raise enough revenue to lift 2.3 billion people
  out of poverty, provide universal healthcare to the people of low-
  and middle-income nations, and produce enough coronavirus vaccines to
  meet global demand</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Denialism_as_free_speech)
title: Denialism as free speech
uri: Denialism-as-free-speech
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Denialism_as_free_speech)
content:
 
<p>
Exxon is suing the California officials who brought suit against Exxon <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/18/exxon-texas-courts-critics-climate-crimes">for
deceitfully denying its part in global heating</a>.

<p>
The argument based on the First Amendment is absurd.  Indeed, the
First Amendment covers claiming that burning oil does not cause global
heating.  It is not a crime to make that claim.  But that is not an
excuse, if making that claim was part of a scheme to damage other
people and they sue.

<p>
It worries me greatly that judges are reportedly giving credence to
that argument.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Dumped_fishing_gear)
title: Dumped fishing gear
uri: Dumped-fishing-gear
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Dumped_fishing_gear)
content:
 
<p>
*Dumped fishing gear is killing marine life. Yet <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/19/dumped-fishing-gear-killing-marine-life-governments-care-scottish-trawlerman-nets">no governments seem
 to care</a>.*

<p>
I don't recall seeing a proposal to pass US laws to curb this
practice.  It is easy to think of ways to do it.  Which way would be
best, I wouldn't propose to say with my lack of experience.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Expanding_nation_parks)
title: Expanding nation parks
uri: Expanding-nation-parks
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Expanding_nation_parks)
content:
 
<p>
* Expanding national parks <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/19/expanding-national-parks-not-enough-to-protect-nature-say-scientists-aoe">not enough to protect nature</a>, say scientists.
   "Urgent": coordinated action to tackle overconsumption, farming
subsidies and the climate crisis also needed to halt biodiversity loss.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Evicted_family)
title: Evicted family
uri: Evicted-family
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Evicted_family)
content:
 
<p>
Israel evicted <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/19/israeli-police-evict-palestinian-family-from-sheikh-jarrah-home">one more Palestinian family from Sheikh Jarrah</a>.
  There is always some good project as an excuse, but the net result
if to kick out Arab residents, because the plan is to convert the
neighborhood.

<p>
Israel annexed Sheikh Jarrah to Jerusalem.  It was not part of
Jerusalem at all before 1967.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Burying_toxic_waste)
title: Burying toxic waste
uri: Burying-toxic-waste
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Burying_toxic_waste)
content:
 
<p>
*How a Powerful Company Convinced Georgia <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/how-a-powerful-company-convinced-georgia-to-let-it-bury-toxic-waste-in-groundwater">to Let It Bury Toxic Waste
in Groundwater</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Parking_tracking)
title: Parking tracking
uri: Parking-tracking
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Parking_tracking)
content:
 
<p>
In the UK, computer systems <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/money/2022/jan/17/why-was-i-fined-90-for-charging-my-electric-car-at-lidl">track parking in stores' parking lots</a>.

<p>
Even if the store decides not to act like an ass, it is still wrong to
track people.  But London is planning to make it even more complete,
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/jan/16/char-siu-pork-golden-hake-recipes-lunar-new-year">by charging owners of fossil fuel cars a fee for each trip made</a>.

<p>
I am in favor of charging fossil fuel cars a bigger fee to operate,
but if the purpose is reducing emissions, there is no reason to care
<em>where</em> the car travelled, not even whether it was in London or not.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Global_solidarity)
title: Global solidarity
uri: Global-solidarity
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Global_solidarity)
content:
 
<p>
UN Secretary General Guterres pointed out that, to cope with global
heating, global pandemic, global debt, and global inequality, 
we need global solidarity.  "If we leave anyone
behind, in the end, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/17/un-chief-urges-global-solidarity-covid-climate-and-debt-relief">we leave everyone behind</a>."


 


title: Rejection of anti-protest measures
uri: Rejection-of-anti-protest-measures
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Rejection_of_anti-protest_measures)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Rejection_of_anti-protest_measures)

content:
 
<p>
The UK's House of Lords rejected <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/18/curbs-on-noisy-protests-may-return-to-commons-after-lords-defeat">the repressive anti-protest measures
in the Tories' latest repression bill</a>.

<p>
That does not mean they are dead.  If the Tories are stubborn enough
and have no defectors, they can eventually push this through.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Military_and_economic_power)
title: Military and economic power
uri: Military-and-economic-power
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Military_and_economic_power)
content:
 
<p>
China and Russia are increasing their military and economic power
<a href="https://www.commondreams.org/views/2022/01/18/epochal-decline-american-global-power">while that of the US is crumbling</a>.

<p>
Many of us have hoped to see the weaker parts of the world overcome US
imperialism and violence, for the sake of justice and human rights.
Now it seems that the US may lose its power, but not in a way that
benefits human rights for anyone weak.

<p>
China and Russia have become vicious mad dictatorships.  Different, of
course &mdash; the Chinese Communist Party cares to some extent about the
well-being of Chinese and China, whereas Putin and his barons are more
short-term greedy &mdash; but they both vaunt their contempt for human
rights to discourage anyone who might thing of trying to defend them.
Each has rehabilitated the mass-murderers that ruled them in the past
(Mao and Stalin).

<p>
Against them, the only bastion in the world is the United States,
whose evil aspects are quite familiar to us, and which teeters on the
edge of falling into a dictatorship as mad and vicious as China and
Russia already are.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Next_mass_extinction)
title: Next mass extinction
uri: Next-mass-extinction
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Next_mass_extinction)
content:
 
<p>
The next mass extinction, the first to be caused by humans, is slowly
accelerating, <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/18/scientists-decry-human-indifference-probable-sixth-mass-extinction">but most people hardly pay attention</a>.
  The IUCN Red List of threatened species covers only 5% of the species we
have identified, and many more species are extinct already than it mentions.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Eyes_off_the_ball)
title: Eyes off the ball
uri: Eyes-off-the-ball
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Eyes_off_the_ball)
content:
 
<p>
*America <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/18/opinions/america-iran-russia-ukraine-nuclear-andelman/index.html">has taken its eyes off the ball on Iran</a>.*
    The US has not tried offered enough to get a return to the
non-nuclear deal with Iran.  The unfortunate consequences could be unending.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Anti-mask_Justice)
title: Anti-mask Justice
uri: Anti-mask-Justice
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Anti-mask_Justice)
content:
 
<p>
To avoid being infected by anti-mask Justice Gorsuch,
<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/18/politics/neil-gorsuch-mask-sotomayor-supreme-court/index.html">Justice Sotomayor never attends Supreme Court sessions in person</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Urgent:_Voting_rights_bill)
title: Urgent: Voting rights bill
uri: Urgent-Voting-rights-bill
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Urgent:_Voting_rights_bill)
content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/18/dems-urged-hold-senate-floor-long-it-takes">phone your Democratic senators at 833-346-1256</a> and call on
them to hold a prolonged debate on the voting rights bill, as pressure
on senators Manchin and Sinema.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Air_strike_at_oil_installation)
title: Air strike at oil installation
uri: Air-strike-at-oil-installation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Air_strike_at_oil_installation)
content:
 
<p>
The Houthis launched an air strike at an oil installation in the UAE.
This <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/18/saudis-hit-back-with-deadly-airstrikes-in-yemen-after-houthis-uae-drone-attack">has inspired peculiar outrage</a>.

<p>
<a href="/glossary.html#salafi">Salafi Arabia</a> and the UAE have attacked the Houthis in Yemen for
years, on the ground and from the air, attacking all sorts of targets
including homes.  Why in the world would people feel outrage when
the Houthis retaliate in kind?

<p>
Both <a href="/glossary.html#salafi">Salafi Arabia</a> and UAE are ruled by murderous despots.
The acting king of Salafia Arabia, Crown Prince Bone Saw,
<a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2018-sep-dec.html#26_October_2018_(Khashoggi_admission)">arranged the murder of Jamal Khashoggi</a>.
                                         One of the nobles
of the UAE <a href="https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#19_January_2022_(Torture_complaint_against_president_of_Interpol)">has just been formally accused of torture</a>.

<p>
The Houthis are probably not much better, but I see no reason
to judge it by a stricter standard than the other two.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Annoying_dissident)
title: Annoying dissident
uri: Annoying-dissident
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Annoying_dissident)
content:
 
<p>
China arrested a long-time annoying dissident on charges <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/18/chinese-activist-yang-maodong-told-he-could-not-visit-dying-wife-is-re-arrested">of pleading to
be allowed to join his dying wife in the US</a>.
  He was charged with suspicion of intending to annoy the state.




 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Crows)
title: Crows
uri: Crows
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Crows)
content:
 
<p>
*   More than a thousand crows roost in Sunnyvale every night, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/20/crows-california-sunnyvale-palo-">ruffling
   locals’ feathers with caws and droppings</a>.*
  At least they do it with good caws.

<p>
Can Buffy slay crows?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Deep-water_coral_reefs)
title: Deep-water coral reefs
uri: Deep-water-coral-reefs
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Deep-water_coral_reefs)
content:
 
<p>
Some deep-water coral reefs <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jan/20/like-a-work-of-art-rare-stretch-of-pristine-coral-reef-discovered-off-tahiti-age-of-extinction">seem to be safe from world-wide coral
damage</a>.

<p>
What I wonder is, can all the coral species that live in shallow reefs
also live in deep reefs?


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Sanctioning_and_aiding)
title: Sanctioning and aiding
uri: Sanctioning-and-aiding
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Sanctioning_and_aiding)
content:
 
<p>
*   Keynes argued that aiding our allies <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/20/keynes-warned-the-world-against-using-economic-sanctions-his-alternative-is-worth-considering">is more effective
   than sanctioning our foes</a>.*

<p>
Sanctions are not very effective, so I suppose this is true.

<p>
The difficulty about aiding allies is that it costs money.
Governments that are prostrate from having lowered taxes on the rich
are not in a position to do this very much &mdash; and likewise <a href="https://stallman.org/articles/why-we-need-a-state.html">the
other good things they ought to do</a>.


 


title: Misleading banks and tax officials
uri: Misleading-banks-and-tax-officials
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Misleading_banks_and_tax_officials)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Misleading_banks_and_tax_officials)

content:
 
<p>
*New York attorney general <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/19/new-york-attorney-general-alleges-donald-trump-firm-misled-banks-tax-officials">alleges Trump firm misled banks and tax officials</a>.*

<p>
Questioning the wrecker himself for a civil suit might be a mistake, since it
would require giving him immunity from prosecution, and that would be most
unfortunate.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Eliminating_rules)
title: Eliminating rules
uri: Eliminating-rules
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Eliminating_rules)
content:
 
<p>
The Tories have given in to right-wing pressure by saying that they
will soon eliminate all the rules to reduce spread of Covid-19.
Teachers and medical personnel <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/19/sajid-javids-axing-of-all-covid-restrictions-draws-warnings-from-nhs">say this is absurd</a>.

<p>
This will allow people to "live normally", if they can ignore the
danger from all the unmasked Covid-infected people they pass by.  They
will all catch and spread Covid-19 from time to time.  Each time, it
might kill them, or give them long Covid disabilities.

<p>
For the people who are "vulnerable", which is a large fraction of the
US population, it will be extremely dangerous to come near other
people, since many will be doing little or nothing to avoid transmitting the
virus.  Using public transit will be dangerous, so those who don't
have cars will be stuck at home.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Anarchist_cookbook)
title: Anarchist cookbook
uri: Anarchist-cookbook
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Anarchist_cookbook)
content:
 
<p>
UK censorship: jail sentence <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/2022/jan/19/terrorism-convict-ordered-read-classics-jailed-sentence-overturned-ben-john">for possessing a copy of The Anarchist's
Cookbook</a>.

<p>
Nazism is despicable, and the Anarchist's Cookbook explains how to
make some explosives &mdash; but merely possessing a copy of a book must
never be criminalized.  That is just one small step away from
thoughtcrime.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Encouraging_vaccine)
title: Encouraging vaccine
uri: Encouraging-vaccine
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Encouraging_vaccine)
content:
 
<p>
*Florida health official put on leave <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/19/florida-health-official-leave-encouraging-staff-covid-vaccine">after encouraging staff to get Covid
vaccine</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Blasphemous_WhatsApp_activity)
title: Blasphemous WhatsApp activity
uri: Blasphemous-WhatsApp-activity
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Blasphemous_WhatsApp_activity)
content:
 
<p>
*Woman sentenced to death in Pakistan <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/19/pakistan-woman-aneeqa-ateeq-sentenced-to-death-blasphemous-whatsapp-messages">over "blasphemous" WhatsApp
 activity</a>.*

<p>
Unusually, the target this time is a Muslim who claims to be
religious.  But morally that makes no difference.  It is vicious to
punish anyone for "blasphemy" against any religion, and it demonstrates the
danger of giving religion any more power than any other opinion.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Antibiotic-resistant_bacteria)
title: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria
uri: 2022-01-21-Antibiotic-resistant-bacteria
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Antibiotic-resistant_bacteria)
content:
 
<p>
*[Antibiotic-resistant bacteria] now <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/20/antimicrobial-resistance-antibiotic-resistant-bacterial-infections-deaths-lancet-study">a leading cause of death
 worldwide</a>, study finds.*

<p>
Scientists have warned us for years that we need to put an end to
overuse of antibiotics, or they will cease to work and that will kill
lots of people.  The reason we did not do so is that <a href="https://stallman.org/archives/2021-jan-apr.html#29_January_2021_(Livestock_antibiotic_overuse)">it would have reduced
the profits of Big Ag</a>.
  It's not the farmer workers that get more pay, nor the owners of
small farms that sell their crops to Big Ag.  It's the giant
distributor/processors that get the money.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Government_documents)
title: Government documents
uri: Government-documents
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Government_documents)
content:
 
<p>
*Supreme Court rejects [the bullshitter's] bid <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/19/us-capitol-riot-trump-documents-national-archives">to shield [official
government] documents from January 6 panel</a>.*


 


title: Prescribed burn turning into wildfire
uri: Prescribed-burn-turning-into-wildfire
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Prescribed_burn_turning_into_wildfire)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Prescribed_burn_turning_into_wildfire)

content:
 
<p>
A prescribed burn in Texas got out of control <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/19/weather/texas-rolling-pines-wildfire/index.html">and now needs to be
treated as a wildfire</a>.

<p>
The US does not do enough prescribed burns, and that insufficiency
makes fires more dangerous when they eventually happen.  But part of
the reason for the insufficiency is that they are risky.  <a href="/glossary.html#global heating">Global heating</a>
makes them more risky.


 


title: Urgent: Postal Service Reform Act
uri: Urgent-Postal-Service-Reform-Act
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Urgent:_Postal_Service_Reform_Act)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Urgent:_Postal_Service_Reform_Act)

content:
 
<p>
US citizens: <a href="https://actionnetwork.org/forms/sign-the-petition-to-congress-pass-the-postal-service-reform-act-to-restore-the-usps?nowrapper=true">call on Congress</a> to pass the Postal Service Reform Act.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Tax_us)
title: Tax us
uri: Tax-us
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Tax_us)
content:
 
<p>
*   More than 100 members of the global super-rich called on Wednesday for
   governments around the world to "tax us now" <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/jan/19/millionaires-call-on-governments-worldwide-to-tax-us-now">to help pay for the
   pandemic response and tackle the gulf between rich and poor</a>.*


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Book_club)
title: Book club
uri: Book-club
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Book_club)
content:
 
<p>
Teenagers in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, have responded to Republican
book-banners <a href="https://pennsylvanianewstoday.com/teens-appear-in-the-newly-created-kutztown-banned-book-club/304939/">by starting a book club for reading banned books</a>.


 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Toxic_corporate_culture)
title: Toxic corporate culture
uri: Toxic-corporate-culture
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Toxic_corporate_culture)
content:
 
<p>
A study from the MIT business school found that America's "toxic
corporate culture" is <a href="https://boingboing.net/2022/01/14/americas-toxic-corporate-culture-driving-the-great-resignation.html">one of the main factors that motivated
many workers to quit their jobs last year</a>.



 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Oil_companies_greenwashing)
title: Oil companies greenwashing
uri: Oil-companies-greenwashing
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#20_January_2022_(Oil_companies_greenwashing)
content:
 
<p>
  Exxon (and other oil companies) are <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/18/exxon-net-zero-plan-called-greenwashing-climate-liar">trying to distract us by committing
  to to eliminate the greenhouse emissions from their own operations</a>.
<p>
  Those emissions are nothing compared with the emissions generated
  when their customers burn the oil or gas that Exxon sells them.
  That is the real problem.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Puerto_Rico_debt)
title: Puerto Rico debt
uri: Puerto-Rico-debt
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Puerto_Rico_debt)
content:
 
<p>
  A plan to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/19/critics-warn-puerto-rico-debt-plan-will-lead-more-austerity">cancel most of Puerto Rico's debt will leave enough debt
  to crush it</a>.

 


title: Phase out fossil fuels on public land
uri: Phase-out-fossil-fuels-on-public-land
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Phase_out_fossil_fuels_on_public_land)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Phase_out_fossil_fuels_on_public_land)

content:
 
<p>
  *360+ Climate Groups to Biden: <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/19/360-climate-groups-biden-phase-out-fossil-fuels-public-lands">Phase Out Fossil Fuels on Public Lands</a>.*
<p>
  I wish I knew what reasons for this he has in his head.  Maybe he can't face
  the challenge of trying to lead the US into making the sacrifice necessary
  for the survival of the US (and the rest of the world too) -- but that's
  the job, and if he won't do it, no one else can.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Senator_Cruz)
title: Senator Cruz
uri: Senator-Cruz
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Senator_Cruz)
content:
 
<p>
  Senator Cruz has <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/19/ted-cruzs-pro-corruption-case-gets-supreme-court-review">invented a new form of campaign corruption in order
  to undermine campaign finance laws</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_((Satire)_Apple_Acquires_Apple)
title: (Satire) Apple Acquires Apple
uri: (Satire)-Apple-Acquires-Apple
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_((Satire)_Apple_Acquires_Apple)
content:
 
<p>
  (satire) *Apple <a href="https://www.theonion.com/apple-acquires-apple-in-historic-3-trillion-deal-1848385874">Acquires Apple In Historic $3 Trillion Deal</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(N95_masks_nationwide)
title: N95 masks nationwide
uri: N95-masks-nationwide
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(N95_masks_nationwide)
content:
 
<p>
  Biden announced a plan to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/19/catching-progressives-biden-provides-n95s-nationwide">provide N95 masks to everyone in the US</a>.
<p>
  He should have done this a year ago, but now is much better than never.

 


title: Papua New Guinea abolishes death penalty
uri: Papua-New-Guinea-abolishes-death-penalty
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Papua_New_Guinea_abolishes_death_penalty)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Papua_New_Guinea_abolishes_death_penalty)

content:
 
<p>
  Papua New Guinea has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/21/papua-new-guinea-repeals-death-penalty-30-years-after-reintroduction">abolished the death penalty</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Smoking)
title: Smoking
uri: 2022-01-22-Smoking
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Smoking)
content:
 
<p>
  Smoking <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/21/children-of-the-90s-smoking-body-fat">makes your descendants (for three generations at least) likely
  to be fatter</a>.
  What is amazing is that the effect depends in a complex way on details.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Ola_Bini)
title: Ola Bini
uri: 2022-01-22-Ola-Bini
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Ola_Bini)
content:
 
<p>
  Ola Bini has been <a href="https://peoplesdispatch.org/2022/01/18/after-recurrent-delays-trial-of-software-developer-and-activist-ola-bini-set-to-begin/">stuck in Ecuador for two years, awaiting trial on
  apparently bogus charges under a process including illegal actions by
  the state</a>.  How he will go on trial.
<p>
  One must suspect that Ecuador is doing this to serve the US, just as it
  expelled Assange from the embassy to serve the US.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(America_and_authoritarianism)
title: America and authoritarianism
uri: America-and-authoritarianism
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(America_and_authoritarianism)
content:
 
<p>
*America must <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jan/19/america-biden-trump-authoritarinism">take steps now to avoid a slide into authoritarianism</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_((Satire)_Rough_patch_in_orbit)
title: (Satire) Rough patch in orbit
uri: (Satire)-Rough-patch-in-orbit
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_((Satire)_Rough_patch_in_orbit)
content:
 
<p>
  (satire) *Oxygen Masks Drop From Nation's
     Ceilings After <a href="https://www.theonion.com/oxygen-masks-drop-from-nation-s-ceilings-after-earth-hi-1848385822">Earth Hits Rough Patch In Orbit</a>.*

<!--
 


title: Basic COVID protections for call center workers
uri: Basic-COVID-protections-for-call-center-workers
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Basic_COVID_protections_for_call_center_workers)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Basic_COVID_protections_for_call_center_workers)

content:
 
<p>

*Medicare and ACA Call Center Workers <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/y3vbev/medicare-and-aca-call-center-workers-demand-basic-covid-protections">Demand Basic COVID Protections</a>.*

 


title: No agreement in non-nuclear deal with Iran
uri: No-agreement-in-non-nuclear-deal-with-Iran
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(No_agreement_in_non-nuclear_deal_with_Iran)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(No_agreement_in_non-nuclear_deal_with_Iran)

content:
 
<p>

The talks to restore the non-nuclear deal with Iran have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/jan/17/iran-nuclear-talks-deadlock-risks-dangerous-vacuum">reached no agreement</a>,
and soon they will end.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Google_Analytics_illegal_in_EU)
title: Google Analytics illegal in EU
uri: Google-Analytics-illegal-in-EU
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Google_Analytics_illegal_in_EU)
content:
 
<p>

Google Analytics <a href="https://tutanota.com/blog/posts/google-analytics/">declared illegal in the EU</a>.
<p>
Bravo!  But what we really need is to stop Google (and other companies)
from <em>collecting</em> the sort of data that <a href="https://gnu.org/philosophy/surveillance-vs-democracy.html">makes people vulnerable</a>.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Experience_with_cancellation)
title: Experience with cancellation
uri: Experience-with-cancellation
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Experience_with_cancellation)
content:
 
<p>

Kate Clanchy, Richard Dawkins and Priyamvada Gopal write about <a href="https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/society-and-culture/ostracised-disinvited-rescinded-what-its-like-to-get-cancelled">their
experiences with cancellation</a>.
<p>
In ASCII form, the page doesn't say whose writing starts where, but I
think that Kate Clanchy's part starts with "I have no doubt that the
critic," Richard Dawkins's part starts with "A university is a
Socratic haven of free thought," and Priyamvada Gopal's part starts
with "Let me be upfront."
<p>
I read the first part of Clanchy's book to see what the offense was
about.  She described physical and cultural traits of the various
demographic groups of children she taught, mentioning differences that
made an impression on her &mdash; but her only wish was to teach them all,
not to judge them, and they appreciated that.
<p>
Maybe I understand how some people could look at that writing with a
particular squint and see bigotry.  What Clanchy wrote is not bigotry,
but it has some superficial resemblance to certain expressions of
bigotry.  A racist might mention some of those same group
characteristics as a build-up for a racist sneer at those children,
and at their adult relatives.  That would be real bigotry.
<p>
The error those cancellers made was to hype themselves into a
hairtrigger state in which they look at something that superficially
resembles bigotry, declare it to be real bigotry, and explode into
hatred.
<p>
Clanchy warns that cancellation will someday drive someone to suicide.
Sad to say, this has already happened.  <a href="https://scrapsfromtheloft.com/comedy/dave-chappelle-the-closer-transcript/">David Chappelle tells</a>
how his friend, trans comedienne Daphne Dwarman, was cancelled for
supporting him, and killed herself from the pain.  I would expect
there are dozens more such instances.
<p>
I love Dawkins's point about the extreme contrast between progressive
acceptance of transgenderism and condemnation of transracialism.  The
physical difference between the sexes is fundamental to reproduction;
the physical difference between human racial groups is a matter of
minor details that only occasionally have a substantial direct effect
on living.  In both cases we surround those physical differences with
socially constructed roles.  So why not let people identify as
whatever racial groups they choose?  Or invent new ones?
<p>
What about the right-wing cancellationism that Priyamvada Gopal
reports?  It operates using state power and financial influence.
Left-wing cancellationism does not have state power or financial
influence to work with, so it operates using hate mobs.  They are both
harmful to freedom of thought, but they look very different.

 


title: Manchin and Sinema help sing voting rights
uri: Manchin-and-Sinema-help-sing-voting-rights
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Manchin_and_Sinema_help_sing_voting_rights)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Manchin_and_Sinema_help_sing_voting_rights)

content:
 
<p>

*Amid 'Slow-Motion Coup,' Manchin and Sinema Help GOP <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/20/amid-slow-motion-coup-manchin-and-sinema-help-gop-sink-voting-rights">Sink Voting Rights</a>.*

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_((satire)_Parking_lot_corrals)
title: (satire) Parking lot corrals
uri: (satire)-Parking-lot-corrals
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_((satire)_Parking_lot_corrals)
content:
 
<p>

(satire) *Frustrated Hospital Worker <a href="https://www.theonion.com/frustrated-hospital-worker-rounds-up-gurneys-patients-f-1848235712">Rounds Up Gurneys Patients Failed
To Put in Parking Lot Corrals</a>.*

 


title: Orlando area public health director suspended
uri: Orlando-area-public-health-director-suspended
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Orlando_area_public_health_director_suspended)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(Orlando_area_public_health_director_suspended)

content:
 
<p>

Florida Republicans suspended the Orlando area director of public health
for <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/01/19/us/orange-county-florida-health-director-email-leave/index.html">encouraging the staff to show their support for public health</a>.
<p>
Public health goes against the Disease Spreader Party's politics.

 


feed_id: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(New_malicious_hardware)
title: New malicious hardware
uri: New-malicious-hardware
url: https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#22_January_2022_(New_malicious_hardware)
content:
 
<p>

A <a href="https://www.servethehome.com/lenovo-vendor-locking-ryzen-based-systems-with-amd-psb/">new form of malicious hardware</a>: CPUs with circuits that won't allow
it to work if moved to some other brand of computer.
<p>
Does this have an effect on software freedom?  I don't see that it does,
but it is nasty in any case.

 


title: Right-wing Covid-spreaders boycott Carhartt
uri: Right-wing-Covid-spreaders-boycott-Carhartt
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Right-wing_Covid-spreaders_boycott_Carhartt)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Right-wing_Covid-spreaders_boycott_Carhartt)

content:
 
<p>

Right-wing Covid-spreaders are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/jan/20/carhartt-vaccine-mandate-backlash-conservative">boycotting the work clothes company
Carhartt for maintaining a vaccination requirement</a> for its workers.
<p>
Covid-19 is their biological weapon, and they any organization that
tries to resist it, they will try to make it give up.  They have a
grip on our government such that it is powerless to help us resist.
-->

 


title: Lyft donated money to buy ballot initiative
uri: Lyft-donated-money-to-buy-ballot-initiative
feed_id:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Lyft_donated_money_to_buy_ballot_initiative)

url:
https://stallman.org/archives//2021-nov-feb.html#21_January_2022_(Lyft_donated_money_to_buy_ballot_initiative)

content:
 
<p>

Lyft has donated 14 million dollars to <a href="https://www.commondreams.org/news/2022/01/19/lyft-makes-largest-donation-massachusetts-history-keep-drivers-down">buy a ballot initiative</a> to deny
Lyft's drivers the rights of employees.

 


