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Trump should talk to Hamas, not to Bibi or Abbas, to free the hostages

This week, President-elect Donald Trump addressed a sizeable Republican gathering, stating, "I had a good conversation with Bibi. We talked about what's coming and where things stand regarding the hostages." Trump then issued a direct warning to Hamas: "We want our hostages back. And they had better be back before I assume office, or you would pay a big price." In response, media analyst @AdemeMedia tweeted, "I see the $100 million bribe Miriam Adelson (a US-Israeli citizen) paid him during the election campaign is already paying off for the Israelis." Trump acts as "Israel's lapdog," a label many have associated with him since his initial run for office in 2016. Meanwhile, grim images of Palestinian civilians rounded up by the Israeli military in Gaza have circulated online, showcasing the ongoing human suffering in the region. The big question remains: What exactly will Trump do on January 20th if the hostages remain unreleased? Would he resort to extreme military action, risking further loss of life, including the hostages themselves?

Central Ohio Worker Center Celebrates Ten Years

Logo

In 2014, the Central Ohio Worker Center (COWC) was formed to help build a stronger Central Ohio for low wage and immigrant workers. As we wrap up 2024, the list of accomplishments and contributions are numerous. Ten years of May Day Celebrations have taken place, each year the event has grown and transformed into what it is today: a celebration and resource fair featuring dancing, local unions, legal support, delicious food, government agencies, kids activities including a huge book give-away from our friends at the Ohio Federation of Teachers, other non profits, and community. In 2024, 300 people came through the doors to help celebrate workers. Supporting the passage of the Wage Theft Ordinance has been one of the biggest accomplishments the center has seen. With years of advocacy, the ordinance passed in September 2020. It is one of the strongest municipal wage theft ordinances in the country.

Grassroots Advocacy in Action: A Sit-In for Democracy at the Ohio Statehouse

Students sitting in at the Statehouse rotunda

In a bold yet peaceful demonstration of civic engagement, a group of determined Ohioans gathered Tuesday in the Rotunda of the Ohio Statehouse to take action against the proposed amendment to H.B. 315. This amendment, which incorporates the controversial IHRA definition of antisemitism, has sparked widespread concern over its potential impact on free speech and the First Amendment.

The sit-in was carefully planned as a way to both garner media attention and directly address legislators. Sitting in a circle beneath the grand dome of the Statehouse, participants passed out call scripts and worked together to make phone calls and write emails to their representatives. This unique form of advocacy transformed the Rotunda into a hub of collective action, with citizens uniting their voices in the very space where decisions are made.

As representatives walked by, participants continued to make calls and send emails, ensuring their presence and concerns were impossible to ignore. This wasn’t just a call for attention—it was a clear message to lawmakers: “We’re here, we’re engaged, and we demand to be heard.”

RISE Together Slams Governor DeWine's Proposal to take Healthcare away from Residents

People who look homeless

Today, the RISE Together Innovation Institute expressed deep concern over Governor Mike DeWine’s proposal to reintroduce work requirements for Medicaid recipients in Ohio. This policy threatens to undermine the health and economic stability of thousands of Franklin County residents who are already struggling to make ends meet. 

“All of us should have the healthcare we need when we get sick,” said Danielle Sydnor, CEO of RISE Together Innovation Institute. “Governor DeWine’s proposal will take away healthcare from thousands of people who are already struggling to make ends meet. Instead of expanding opportunity and making sure people are healthy, this policy will make it harder for people to get the healthcare they need.” 

Potential Harms to Franklin County Residents 

Residents will lose healthcare coverage: In 2019, the Commonwealth Fund estimated between 121,000 and 163,000 adults in Ohio could lose Medicaid coverage in Ohio due to Medicaid work requirements.1 That number is likely higher today since more adults without dependents are participating in Medicaid.  

Save the Date: Celebrate Community and Hope at a Special Solstice Concert

Bill Cohen with candle and guitar
What: From the Darkness to the Light – A Solstice Concert
When: Saturday, December 21, 7:00 PM
Where: First Unitarian Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Road, Columbus, OH
Cost: Free (donations welcomed; proceeds support Food Rescue of Columbus)

On Saturday, December 21st, as the winter solstice brings us the darkest day of the year, a special event will light up hearts and minds with music, reflection, and community spirit. Hosted at the First Unitarian Church (93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus) at 7:00 PM, From the Darkness to the Light is an uplifting concert in the spirit of Simply Living’s values of connection, peace, and sustainability.

Drop-off factor in Election Data Raises Questions About 2024 Election Results

This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.

Drop-off factor in Election Data Raises Questions About 2024 Election Results

This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.

Drop-off factor in Election Data Raises Questions About 2024 Election Results

This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.

Drop-off factor in Election Data Raises Questions About 2024 Election Results

This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.

Drop-off factor in Election Data Raises Questions About 2024 Election Results

This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.

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