Welcome to Washington Waters, a newly launched newsletter for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Washington Water Science Center. The purpose of the newsletter is to keep our partners, collaborators, and data users updated with current research projects, changes to our data network, and other water news.
Though our motto is “Science for a Changing World”, we are guided and grounded by the mission of the U.S. Geological Survey: to provide objective and impartial science to decision makers, resource managers, and the public.
At the Washington Water Science Center, we advance the USGS mission by maintaining a network of streamgages that provide reliable real-time information from Washington’s rivers and streams. USGS water data supports flood prediction and response, reservoir management and hydropower generation, water security, and the recreation economy. We also undertake scientific investigations to provide unbiased information in support of water resource management and decision making.
In this first edition of Washington Waters, we showcase a couple examples of the work we do across Washington State. These include our growing data network and new webpages for data delivery as well as advances in streamflow permanence research.
Collaboration is at the heart of our efforts, and we value our partnerships with entities across Washington. Together with our partners, we ensure that our science is relevant, timely, and impactful to the communities we serve. Thank you to our partners and data users for your continued support and engagement as we work together to fulfill our mission.
– Scott VanderKooi, Director, USGS Washington Water Science Center
New Water Data Web Pages
New Water Data for the Nation web page.
You may have noticed recent changes to the USGS water data web pages. Over the past several years, the USGS has been updating our pages to meet modern web standards, security needs, and the ever-increasing demand for USGS water data. Now we are ready to make the switch to the new pages and turn off the old ones. The decommissioning will take place over three campaigns between now and February 2027. Learn more about the changes by reading the Water Data for the Nation Blog and subscribing to their newsletter.
The modernized pages contain new features including:
My Favoritesis a centralized place to keep track of the monitoring locations you are interested in.
State Pagesallow users to see current water conditions from all monitoring locations in a state that collect continuous data.
Explore USGS Water Datais a map tool with multiple filters available to help you refine a list of locations and find water data that meet your needs.
Data Collection Categories make all kinds of water data (continuous, daily, discrete samples, field measurements) accessible from the same place.
We acknowledge that this will require a period of transition and learning. The Washington Water Science Center is here to support you through the transition; please use the “Questions or Comments” button at the bottom of the data pages.
Picture This
You know the saying “A photo is worth a thousand words”. We’re excited to show off our stellar science and staff with a photo.
Pend Oreille River Below Box Canyon Near Ione, WA. Photo by William Elliot, USGS.
This photo of a streamflow measurement on the Pend Oreille River captures a juxtaposition inherent to our work: we use cutting-edge technology to capture high-quality data while working in rugged, beautiful places. In the photo, a hydrologic technician riding a cableway guides an ADCP (streamflow measurement device) across the channel. On the snowy shore, a laptop displays the channel cross-section, allowing technicians to visualize the flow and validate the data. Field visits by hydrologic technicians provide critical information about changes to the channel which are used to calibrate continuous monitoring data.
The Volcano in Our Backyard: 45 Years of Mt. St. Helens Water Research
45 years after the Mt. St. Helens eruption, the North Fork Toutle River still carries high sediment loads. Photo by Adam Mosbrucker, USGS.
45 years ago, Mt. St. Helens began to rumble. The May 18, 1980 eruption drew global attention and sticks in the minds of those who were alive to experience it. USGS volcanologists and seismologists closely monitored the mountain throughout the eruption cycle. USGS water scientists were at the scene too.
The eruption and lahars forever changed the mountain’s slopes, valleys, and rivers, none more so than the North Fork Toutle River which was immediately loaded with billions of tons of sediment. Scientists and technicians from the USGS Washington Water Science Center quickly responded and led the water quality monitoring and surveyed the dramatically changed river corridor. Even today, sediment loads remain elevated, creating challenges for the downstream communities that rely on the Toutle and Cowlitz Rivers for drinking water and navigation. The Washington Water Science Center continues to monitor sediment loads to provide communities with critical information needed to protect their water resources.
May 18th marks the 45th anniversary of this historic eruption. Retired USGS scientists from the Washington Water Science Center and the Cascade Volcano Observatory have compiled their personal stories and photos.
Read Stories from the Smoking Mountain
Expanding Our Data Network
In 2025, the Washington Water Science Center expanded our water monitoring network, with the support of our cooperators. The new streamgages, wells, and data types will help address specific scientific questions such as supporting aquatic species health, flood warning, understanding groundwater movement, and quantifying precipitation in areas burned by wildfire. We’re excited to bring more water data to our partners and the public!
View Washington Water Conditions
New Water Monitoring Sites in 2025
Will it Flow? USGS Streamflow Permanence Research Makes Splashes
New Scientific Investigations
Integration of Urban Stormwater Infrastructure in Modeling Water Quality Patterns in Small Urban Streams
The Issue: Stormwater can quickly run off impervious surfaces delivering potentially polluted water to streams and rivers in the Puget Sound region. Runoff from impervious surfaces can either be directly connected to streams through stormwater pipes or indirectly connected if runoff is routed to some other surface such as grass or a feature like a stormwater management structure. It is currently…
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Integration of Urban Stormwater Infrastructure in Modeling Water Quality Patterns in Small Urban Streams
The Issue: Stormwater can quickly run off impervious surfaces delivering potentially polluted water to streams and rivers in the Puget Sound region. Runoff from impervious surfaces can either be directly connected to streams through stormwater pipes or indirectly connected if runoff is routed to some other surface such as grass or a feature like a stormwater management structure. It is currently…
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Get in Touch: Connect with the Washington Water Science Center
The USGS Washington Water Science Center provides water resource information. You’ll find information about Washington’s rivers and streams, as well as groundwater, water quality, and cutting-edge water research. We welcome you to explore our data and scientific research.
Four of six bridges completed for fish barrier removal project
GARDINER – The end of road work for fish passage is in sight for travelers on US 101 between Sequim and Gardiner. Wednesday, March 26, construction crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation opened a new bridge on US 101 east of Gardiner. The bridge is part of the Jefferson and Clallam counties fish barrier removal project. With the opening of the new bridge, the project is now more than half-way complete.
By July, the remaining two bridges will open to travelers, while fish and other wildlife move freely under them.
Site specifics
Crews started construction over Contractors Creek in April 2024. The bridge replaces a culvert under the highway that blocks fish migration. Drivers familiar with this section of US 101 may notice a straighter roadway and improved line of sight.
Home stretch
Construction at the last two sites is already underway. During summer, these bridges are expected to be open for travelers.
Bridges over Eagle Creek, Chicken Coop Creek and an unnamed tributary to Sequim Bay were completed between August 2023 and November 2024.
Although major roadwork will be over, off-road fish habitat work will continue. Crews will remove the old sections of the highway along with the culverts. Work will also include planting trees and shrubs to help restore the creeks to more natural conditions.
All project locations are expected be complete in the fall.
Travel tools
WSDOT has tools to help everyone get where they are going. Travelers can sign up for email updates for projects in Jefferson and Clallam counties. Real-time travel information is available on the WSDOT app and statewide travel map.
DENVER – Today, Governor Polis unveiled his new official gubernatorial portrait to be displayed in the Colorado State Capitol. In the time honored tradition of each Governor choosing their own portrait, Governor Polis’s portrait joins fellow governors from throughout Colorado history. These portraits adorn the walls of the East and West Foyers on the State Capitol’s first floor, welcoming Coloradans and visitors to the historic building. The Governor’s portrait, inspired and created by local Colorado artists, reflects his commitment to the arts, his support of Colorado creativity, and his appreciation for innovative strategies of personal expression.
“No one likes an unflattering photo or painting of themselves, which is why I went against the grain for my official portrait. I’ve proudly supported Colorado art, the joy that art can spread, and this portrait was an exciting opportunity to do exactly that while weaving this portrayal into the fabric of Colorado’s history. I’m pleased with the final product and want to thank the artists for their vision, and feel that I have never looked better,” said Governor Polis.
To ensure the portrait reflects the Governor’s likeness to his satisfaction, the Governor and his office provided the artist the following criteria:
The Governor must be depicted directly facing the viewer
The Governor’s well-known signature look, specifically his signature blue polo, must not be altered
The portrait must utilize the bright blue hue of the Governor’s iconic tennis shoes
The Governor must be smiling or smizing
The portrait must include Colorado’s iconic state flag
The Colorado Capitol has seen a surge of visitors in recent weeks and with the new portrait is projected to see:
74% increase in visitors overall
10% increase in international visitors
16% increase in positive feedback on visitation experience
100% of readers and visitors fell for the Governor’s April Fool’s Joke
CARIBBEAN SEA — U.S. Navy Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) conducted a passing exercise (PASSEX) with the Guyana Defence Force Defiant-class patrol vessel GDFS Shahoud (1039) March 27. The two ships conducted formation-maneuvering events supported by Normandy’s embarked MH-60R Seahawk helicopter from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 50; the aircrew conducted a photo exercise as the final event of the maneuvers.
Source: The White House
After four years of foreign policy failures, President Donald J. Trump and his administration have made tremendous progress in restoring safety and security at home and abroad by implementing Peace through Strength. All we really needed was a new president.
After President Trump demanded action, Mexico committed 10,000 of its own troops to our southern border and Canada deployed 10,000 of its own personnel to our northern border to help stem the flow of illegal immigration and illicit fentanyl into our country.
President Trump designated deadly drug cartels and vicious transnational gangs as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, empowering law enforcement to make enormous progress arresting and deporting these violent terrorists.
President Trump forced Colombia, Venezuela, and other countries to accept repatriation flights for their own citizens who were illegally in the U.S.
President Trump’s unprecedented effort to secure the homeland has driven illegal border crossings to historic lows — down 95% over last year.
President Trump provided key intelligence to the Pakistani government, which led to the arrest and extradition of the ISIS terrorist who orchestrated the deadly Abbey Gate bombing.
President Trump increased U.S. counterterrorism activities and eliminated dozens of hardened terrorists — including a high-ranking ISIS attack planner in Somalia.
President Trump reimposed maximum pressure on the Iranian regime to reign in their nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism across the Middle East.
President Trump ordered strikes against Houthi terrorists, which have overwhelmed their leaders and networks and taken away their capabilities — not stopping “until they are no longer a threat to Freedom of Navigation.”
President Trump’s pressure led Panama to exit China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a debt-trap diplomacy scheme the Chinese Communist Party uses to gain influence over developing nations — a massive milestone as the U.S. seeks to secure the Western Hemisphere from Chinese influence.
President Trump’s leadership has secured the release of 39 U.S. citizens detained abroad — compared to just 80 citizens released across Biden’s four years in office.
President Trump brokered a temporary ceasefire in Gaza to ensure the release of hostages, including an American citizen — a deal Biden was unable to secure.
For the first time in three years, President Trump brought both Ukraine and Russia to the negotiating table for serious discussions around a peaceful resolution — engagements that continue in earnest.
As the current holder of the G20 Presidency, South Africa is leading global efforts for ocean sustainability, particularly focusing on advancing sustainable ocean initiatives in Africa.
The country is hosting the 14th International Conference on Southern Hemisphere Meteorology and Oceanography (ICSHMO), which is currently underway in Cape Town.
This premier scientific gathering, being held in Africa for the first time since 1997, brings together renowned meteorologists, oceanographers, and climate scientists to address the unique atmospheric and oceanic challenges of the southern hemisphere.
The five-day event, which kicked off on Monday, is hosted by the National Research Foundation (NRF) through the South African Environmental Observation Network, with support from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI).
The conference shows South Africa’s growing influence in global climate science.
Opening the conference, the Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, emphasised the urgent need for scientific collaboration to combat the escalating threats of climate change.
“The world is experiencing intensified heatwaves, prolonged droughts, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events that disrupt economies, displace communities, and strain infrastructure,” the department said.
South Africa has witnessed the devastating impact of climate change in repeated floods and recurring droughts. These events highlight the pressing need for enhanced climate prediction, risk management, and adaptation strategies, all key topics at ICSHMO 2025.
The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of turning scientific knowledge into tangible, actionable solutions. Through the NRF, the country continues to support cutting-edge research in marine and coastal science, weather forecasting, and climate adaptation, to inform global policy and action.
Gina welcomed the integration of ICSHMO with the Ocean20 initiative, a flagship programme introduced under Brazil’s G20 Presidency, which is designed to promote sustainable ocean governance, and reiterated South Africa’s commitment to leveraging science, technology, and innovation for sustainable development.
The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of equitable access to artificial intelligence, big data and remote sensing technologies, which were transforming climate science, enabling more accurate forecasting, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness.
Collaboration and knowledge-sharing were key to building a more stable and resilient global future, especially for nations that were most vulnerable to climate change.
A group of learners from Luhlaza and Usasazo high schools in Khayelitsha attended the conference and had a special interaction with Gina on the benefits of science for society.
During the opening session, Kenya’s representative for the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Patricia Nying’uro, highlighted the critical role of indigenous knowledge in promoting sustainability. She stated that the extensive knowledge accumulated by indigenous communities over centuries should be utilized to enhance climate action efforts.
NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, said the conference would provide a vital platform for advancing scientific collaboration, sharing cutting-edge research, and addressing the pressing challenges of climate variability and change in the southern hemisphere.
“The insights and discussions over the next few days will undoubtedly contribute to shaping policies and strategies that enhance climate resilience in our region and beyond,” he stated. – SAnews.gov.za
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Early this morning, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) delivered floor remarks on the Trump Administration’s national security policies that are leaving our allies abandoned, our adversaries emboldened, and Americans less safe.
President Trump is unlawfully dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), terminating foreign aid programs that save lives and benefit American businesses, and increasingly distancing the U.S. from our neighbors and partners while ceding ground to Russia and China.
Booker took to the Senate floor beginning at 7pm ET last night with the intention of speaking as long as he is physically able to uplift the stories of Americans who are being harmed by the Trump Administration’s reckless actions, attempts to undermine our institutions, and disregard for the rule of law.
Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer
Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (NE-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) announced that their staff will hold Service Academy Days in Bellevue, Norfolk, North Platte, Omaha, Grand Island, and Lincoln.
The events inform high school students about the process to apply for a congressional nomination to one of our nation’s military service academies. Service academy representatives will be on hand to answer questions.
“Home to Offutt Air Force Base and Camp Ashland, Nebraska has long been the home of our nation’s exceptional service members. To continue our state’s proud tradition of military service, I’m happy to host Academy Days for high school students and their parents to learn more about how to apply for nominations to one of our prestigious Military Service Academies,” said Senator Fischer.
“Nebraska has a strong tradition of supporting our military. Each year, I honor that tradition by nominating outstanding young Nebraskans to attend our United States service academies. I encourage high school students from across our state to attend Academy Days and learn more about the nomination process,” said Senator Ricketts.
“America’s Military Service Academies are training a new generation of young leaders who are stepping up to serve in our nation’s Armed Forces. Academy Days hosted by the Nebraska delegation will provide in depth briefings on how nominations work. I strongly encourage any young Nebraskan who has an interest in attending one of the academies to join our offices to learn more and get all your questions answered before diving into the application process,” said Representative Flood.
“As a veteran who served nearly 30 years in the Air Force, I cannot share enough how much my military career meant to me and these academies help our youth get a start on their own exciting and fulfilling careers. I encourage our high school students to check out each of the academies and wish them the best as they start their application process,” said Representative Bacon.
“Nebraska has many bright young people who are willing to serve and would make outstanding cadets at our country’s service academies. It is an honor to partner with our congressional delegation and connect our state’s leading students with a first-rate education, leadership opportunities, and training for service,” said Representative Smith.
The event includes representatives from the Nebraska chapters of the service academy alumni associations and Nebraska service academy parent clubs.
All high school students, parents, and guidance counselors who have an interest in the nation’s service academies are welcome and no preregistration is required. The targeted audience is freshman through juniors.
To learn more, please contact Kevin Huebert, Senator Fischer’s Director of Military and Veterans Affairs, at (402) 391-3411.
Please click here or see below for dates, locations, and more information:
Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today regarding humanitarian aid to the Burmese people and pressure on the junta:
“This weekend’s earthquakes in Burma have heaped new tragedy on a people already beset by grinding hardship. For most of Burma’s independent history, its people have struggled under the jackboot of a totalitarian junta. The search for survivors of these latest disasters adds a new and bitter challenge to the task of unwinding the current military coup.
“The people of Burma have displayed tremendous resilience and commitment to democracy since the 2021 coup. Unprecedented cooperation among Burma’s ethnic groups and pro-democracy movement have put the junta on the back foot. The Tatmadaw’s decision to drop bombs on impacted villages instead of sending urgent material assistance will go down among its most callous offenses.
“To the extent that emergency aid from abroad is reaching the hardest-hit areas around Mandalay, the absence of robust and coordinated American participation will not go unnoticed. Neither will the major and visible role played as of now by the PRC, especially if Beijing continues to enable the Junta’s war against Burma’s people. With U.S. networks of humanitarian workers and regional experts in tatters, pledges of assistance to the people of Burma will be less efficient and less effective.
“As I have repeatedly urged administrations of both parties for years before this weekend’s events, the United States and its allies must apply urgent and concerted pressure on the military to cease its slaughter and restore power to the people of Burma.”
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) introduced the bipartisan Livestock Owned by Communities to Advance Local (LOCAL) Foods Act, legislation to update the Federal Meat Inspection Act of 1906’s (FMIA) ‘Personal-Use Exemption’ to better support small-scale meat producers in rural communities. The LOCAL Foods Act would codify current USDA guidance on Personal-Use and Custom Exemptions, allowing consumers to buy live animals from producers and designate agents to handle the slaughter and processing of their meat.
“Small, Vermont-sized farms have produced locally-grown produce and farm-fresh meat for their neighbors and community for years, but regulations designed for large-scale farms have made that increasingly difficult. We need to cut through red tape and help our rural producers compete in the marketplace. This bipartisan bill will help support our local producers and help local customers access fresh, locally-sourced products,” said Sen. Peter Welch.
“If you’re purchasing livestock for personal consumption, you shouldn’t have to jump through the same regulatory hoops present in the commercial meat market,” said Senator Lee. “This bipartisan, commonsense legislation gives freedom to farmers and ranchers of every size to feed themselves and their communities without going through unnecessary steps to please the government.”
The Federal Meat Inspection Act requires all meat in the United States to be inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). However, the small number of USDA-inspected slaughterhouses creates bottlenecks for producers, especially small-scale producers that have to compete for slaughterhouse time with much larger operations. To address this, the LOCAL Foods Act will amend Personal-Use and Custom Exemptions to allow producers to sell a live animal to a consumer. The consumer will then have the freedom to either hire someone or slaughter and process the meat themselves, helping farmers to avoid bottlenecks to continue providing their communities with locally sourced food.
In 2013, Vermont adopted an on-farm slaughter law similar to the Food Safety and Inspection Service’s guidelines to allow owners to slaughter their livestock on the farm where it was raised while upholding food safety standards. This law helps reduce costs and emissions from animal transport, alleviate pressure on backlogged slaughterhouses, increase farm viability, and improve animal welfare and food security. However, USDA retains the authority to eliminate Vermont’s on-farm slaughter inspection program if the state fails to meet federal standards.
In 2018, the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service issued updated guidelines to create an avenue for producers to sell their produce locally and without an inspection. This guidance gives livestock owners the option to slaughter livestock themselves, or have an agent slaughter their livestock on the farm where it was raised. This change also allows producers to sell a live animal to a consumer, have it slaughtered on the farm, and then processed at a custom processing facility. Custom processing facilities are inspected periodically, in contrast to round-the-clock inspectors that are present at USDA-certified facilities.
The LOCAL Foods Act is endorsed by the Farm Action Fund, Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund, HOPE for Small Farm Sustainability, Kentucky Black Farmers Association, National Family Farm Coalition, and Rural Vermont.
“This legislation will reduce financial and regulatory burdens on small farmers, thereby improving consumers’ access to local foods,” commented Judith McGeary, regenerative farmer, lawyer, and Executive Director of the Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance. “Many consumers want to buy from local farmers instead of massive corporations, but farmers are blocked by burdensome regulations written by and for agribusiness.”
“The LOCAL Foods Act protects the rights of farmers to sell directly from their farm and the rights of consumers to access the foods of their choice from the source of their choice, achieving the kind of food freedom so many desire for themselves, their families, and their communities,” said Christine Dzujna, Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund’s Policy Manager.
“On-farm slaughter aligns with the growing demand for locally-sourced food that respects community traditions,” said Diana Padilla, owner operator of Yahweh’s All Natural Farm and Garden and Executive Director of HOPE for Small Farm Sustainability, “Through my work with farmers in my community, and as a beef farmer myself, I’m seeing increased demand from people who want to buy their meat directly from a farmer they personally know. The LOCAL Foods Act is a straightforward solution that will put more money in farmers’ pockets while fostering meaningful connections between producers and their customers.”
“Modernizing the personal-use exception reflects the realities of diverse communities demanding access to local food that honor their traditions,” said Kenya Abraham, member of the Kentucky Black Farmers Association. “We are observing a growing demand to access local producers like me, but we need legislation that gives us an incentive to continue our operations.”
“Securing the independence of farmers and consumers is key to building a healthy food system,” commented Antonio Tovar, Senior Policy Associate at the National Family Farm Coalition. “When consumers are effectively forced to access their food from corporations, it makes us vulnerable to a weak and unreliable market. The LOCAL Foods Act offers a real opportunity to start building a food system allowing freedom of choice.”
“Updating the personal-use exemption to be based on ownership aligns with current USDA standards and is needed to protect the rights of livestock owners, producers, and itinerant slaughterers to practice on-farm slaughter in compliance with their state regulations,” said Caroline Sherman-Gordon, a small farmer and Rural Vermont’s Legislative Director. “The LOCAL Foods Act protects farmers from arbitrary change to regulations, offering them the stability they need to plan and grow their businesses.”
Learn more about the LOCAL Foods Act.
Read and download the full text of the bill.
BOSTON – The former mayor of Les Irois, Haiti was convicted March 28 by a federal jury in Boston of illegally obtaining a permanent resident card, commonly referred to as a green card, by means of a false statement. A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation found he concealed the fact that he ordered and carried out or materially assisted in extrajudicial and political killings and other acts of violence against the Haitian people.
Jean Morose Viliena, 52, was convicted of three counts of visa fraud. Sentencing is scheduled for June 20, 2025. Viliena was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2023.
“Viliena knowingly lied to conceal his violent past, deceiving immigration authorities to come to the United States. The brave witnesses who came forward to testify in this case relayed their experiences of extreme violence and oppression committed by Viliena and his associates. Thanks to their testimony, his fraud has been uncovered, and he will now face consequences for his violence and deception,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge New England Michael J. Krol.
“The political corruption and violence that the people of Haiti endured at the direction of Jean Morose Viliena, is appalling,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “The United States is not where you come to hide from your crimes. Today’s conviction is proof that running away from your crimes and lying to federal officials will catch up to you. I applaud the courage of the witnesses who spoke up about the abuse they suffered as a result of Viliena.”
“Today a jury found that Jean Morose Viliena lied his way into gaining entrance into the United States after committing unspeakable acts of violence in Haiti,” said Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Matthew R. Galeotti. “The Justice Department will not stand for human rights violators illegally entering and roaming the streets of our communities. Thank you to the brave victims and witnesses who helped our law enforcement partners and prosecutors begin to hold Viliena accountable for his crimes.”
“The men and women of CBP work diligently alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of the people in our communities. Emigrating to the United States is a privilege and if you conceal your criminal conduct to deceive your way into this country, you will ultimately be detected, held accountable and brought to justice,” said Jennifer De La O, Director of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Boston Field Office.
According to court documents, Viliena was the mayor of Les Irois, Haiti from December 2006 until at least February 2010. As a candidate and as mayor, Viliena was backed by a political machine called Korega, which exerts power throughout the southwestern region of Haiti through armed violence. Viliena personally supervised his mayoral staff and security detail and led an armed group in Les Irois aligned with Korega. Under Viliena’s direct supervision, the Korega militia enforced Viliena’s policies by various means, including by targeting political opponents in Les Irois through armed violence.
According to the indictment, as mayor, Viliena was involved in several instances of violence. The first occurred July 27, 2007 when a witness spoke at a judicial proceeding in Les Irois on behalf of a neighbor who had been assaulted by Viliena. In reprisal for that testimony, that evening, Viliena led an armed group to that witness’ home, where Viliena and his associates shot and killed the witness’ younger brother, and then smashed his skull with a large rock before a crowd of bystanders.
The second incident occurred in or around April 2008, when a group of local journalists and activists founded a community radio station. According to court documents, Viliena opposed establishment of the radio station and, on April 8, 2008, mobilized members of his staff and the Korega militia to forcibly shut down the radio station and seize its broadcasting equipment. At that time, Viliena distributed firearms to the Korega militia members, some of whom also carried machetes and picks.
On the day of the attack on the radio station, Viliena pistol-whipped an individual with his gun and struck him with his fists. When the individual tried to flee, Viliena ordered one of his associates to shoot and kill him. Shots were fired which hit the individual in the leg. The individual spent several months in various hospitals and his leg was later amputated above his knee. Another individual, also a citizen of Haiti, became a target of Viliena because of his association with the radio station. On the day of the attack of the radio station, that individual was present and when he tried to flee, he was hit by a bullet in the face. He required months of intensive medical treatment, including two surgeries to extract shotgun pellets from his face, which left him permanently blind in one eye. According to court documents, pieces of shotgun pellets remain in the individual’s scalp and arms.
On June 3, 2008, Viliena presented himself at the U.S. Embassy Consular Office in Port au Prince, Haiti where he applied for a visa to enter the United States. The form specifically requires that each applicant state whether they have “ordered, carried out or materially assisted in extrajudicial and political killings and other acts of violence against the Haitian people.” Viliena falsely responded that he had not. Viliena thereafter swore before a U.S. Consular Officer that the contents of the application were true and signed the application. According to court documents, the U.S. Department of State approved Viliena’s visa application.
On July 14, 2008, Viliena entered the United States and was later granted lawful permanent residence status and received a permanent resident card. Viliena used his permanent resident card on numerous occasions to enter the United States.
The charge of visa fraud provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.
The investigation was led by ICE HSI New England and CBP New England with the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service Boston Field Office and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service Fraud Detection and National Security Division. This matter was investigated with the assistance of the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center. Valuable assistance was provided by the Malden Police Department.
The Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center is led by ICE and leverages the expertise of criminal investigators, attorneys, historians, intelligence analysts and federal partners to provide a whole of government approach to prevent the U.S. from becoming a safe haven for individuals who commit war crimes, genocide, torture and other human rights abuses around the globe. Currently, ICE has more than 180 active investigations into suspected human rights violators and is pursuing more than 1,945 leads and removals cases involving suspected human rights violators from 95 different countries. The center has issued more than 79,000 lookouts since 2003, for potential perpetrators of human rights abuses and stopped over 390 human rights violators and war crimes suspects from entering the U.S.
Individuals can report suspicious criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE or (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form. Highly trained specialists take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on more than 400 laws enforced by ICE.
IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan and IAM Local I460 (District 4) members, were recently honored by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore in Annapolis with a Governor’s Citation. Their efforts in a 64-day strike at the IKEA Distribution Center in Perryville, Md., highlight the significance of standing up for fair wages, better working conditions, and seniority protections.
“I accept this award on behalf of all the brave, hardworking members who stood strong on the strike line and fought for fair treatment and a better workplace,” said Sullivan.
By acknowledging their contributions, the Governor’s Citation shines a light on the importance of workers’ rights and the role of unions in advocating for fair treatment in the workplace. It’s a meaningful gesture that honors the commitment to securing a better future for workers.
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3
For Immediate Release: April 01, 2025
Renowned surgeon-scientist and health policy expert, Martin A. Makary, M.D., M.P.H., took the oath of office to become the 27th Commissioner of Food and Drugs. Dr. Makary was confirmed by a bipartisan vote of the U.S. Senate. “I am pleased to welcome Dr. Makary to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “He is a national leader in medicine with impeccable credentials. His extensive research, clinical experience, and national leadership make him uniquely qualified to lead the FDA as we work together to Make America Healthy Again.” Dr. Makary’s accomplishments as a researcher, clinician and prolific author are numerous. He has authored more than 300 peer-reviewed articles in medical literature and founded the Johns Hopkins Center for Surgical Trials and Outcomes Research. Dr. Makary has led cross-disciplinary research on a range of subjects including cancer care, obesity, frailty and psychologic reserve in older patients, adverse event monitoring, the Orphan Drug Act, antimicrobial resistance, and Alzheimer’s. Of note, he is the co-developer of the Surgery Checklist used in many operating rooms around the world today. A member of the prestigious National Academy of Medicine, Dr. Makary has been a visiting professor at more than 25 medical schools across the U.S. and internationally. “I am honored and humbled to assume this role at the FDA under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Kennedy,” said FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “I look forward to working with this Administration and the FDA workforce to advance our shared goals in meeting the agency’s public health mission. As Commissioner, I hope to ensure that the FDA holds to the gold standard of trusted science, transparency, and common sense so that we can Make America Healthy Again.” Dr. Makary is a graduate of Bucknell University, Thomas Jefferson University, and the Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his residency at Georgetown University and surgical oncology fellowship at Johns Hopkins. After six years on the faculty at Johns Hopkins, Dr. Makary was named an endowed chair in gastrointestinal surgery and subsequently promoted to full professor with tenure. He has held joint appointments at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. Related Information
Related Information
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Boilerplate
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.
ow-income Yamhill County taxpayers eligible to claim valuable federal and state tax credits can get assistance filing their tax returns when Oregon Department of Revenue volunteers visit McMinnville April 7.
Help using the combination of IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon to file electronically for free will be available at the McMinnville Public Library, located at 225 Adams Street, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 7.
According to IRS and state statistics, the federal Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Earned Income Credit were claimed on more than 10 percent of returns in Yamhill County for tax year 2022. It’s likely, however, that more area families could claim the credits. The IRS estimates that, overall, 25 percent of Oregon taxpayers eligible don’t claim the credits.
The Department of Revenue believes that helping taxpayers file their own returns using direct file will help maximize the number of Oregonians who choose to use the new free option and make it possible for many who don’t have a filing requirement to file and claim significant federal and state tax credits for low-income families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit is a federal tax credit for people for making up to $66,819 in 2024. Families may be eligible for a maximum refundable credit of $7,830 on their federal tax return, and a maximum Oregon Earned Income Credit of $940 on their state tax return. Certain taxpayers without children may also be eligible for these credits.
Some taxpayers eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Oregon Earned Income Credit may also be able to claim the Oregon Kids Credit, which could total as much as $5,000.
All three are refundable credits meaning that eligible taxpayers can receive the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Oregon EIC, and Oregon Kids Credit, even if they are not otherwise required to file. To receive the refundable credits, however, they must file a federal and state tax return.
The IRS estimates that 6,300 people in McMinnville are eligible to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon in addition to almost 10,000 others in Yamhill County. Filing with both IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon is free and available as a combination for filing both federal and state taxes for the first time this year.
Before arriving at the library, taxpayers should:
Videos are also available to show how to use IRS Direct File and Direct File Oregon and taxpayers can find more information on the department’s Free Direct File assistance at local libraries webpage.
Taxpayers should bring the following information with them to the library.
Identification documents
Social security card or ITIN for everyone on your tax return
Government picture ID for taxpayer and spouse if filing jointly (such as driver’s license or passport)
Common income and tax documents
Forms W2 (wages from a job)
Forms 1099 (other kinds of income)
Forms SSA-1099 (Social security benefits)
Optional documents
Canceled check or bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit
Last year’s tax return
IRS Direct File does not support all return types. Specifically, taxpayers with dividends reported on Form 1099-DIV and capital gains or losses are not eligible to use IRS Direct File.
Taxpayers who aren’t eligible to use IRS Direct File can find other free options and free assistances sites on the agency’s website. Those who can’t use IRS Direct File to file their federal return can still use Direct File Oregon to file their state return.
Four real estate investors were sentenced in an extensive, multi-year conspiracy to fraudulently obtain multimillion-dollar loans on commercial and multifamily properties.
Aron Puretz, 53, of New Jersey, and his son, Chaim “Eli” Puretz, 29, of New Jersey, were sentenced to prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud affecting a financial institution. Aron Puretz was sentenced to 60 months in prison and ordered to pay $22,235,457 in restitution, and Eli Puretz was sentenced to 24 months in prison and ordered to pay $20,315,457 in restitution.
Moshe “Mark” Silber, 34, of New York, and Fredrick Schulman, 72, of New York, were also sentenced to terms of imprisonment for their respective roles in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud affecting a financial institution. Silber was sentenced to 30 months in prison, and Schulman was sentenced to 12 months and a day in prison, to be followed by nine months of home confinement. The restitution amounts for Silber and Schulman will be determined at a later hearing.
According to court documents, Aron and Eli Puretz were owners of a commercial property, Troy Technology Park, in Troy, Michigan. In September 2020, Aron and Eli Puretz purchased Troy Technology Park for approximately $42 million, before selling or flipping the property to a co-conspirator for approximately $70 million. Aron and Eli Puretz and their co-conspirators provided the lender with falsified documents that included the inflated purchase price. Based on the fraudulent documents, the lender funded a loan for $45 million. To conceal the fraudulent nature of the transaction, Aron and Eli Puretz and co-conspirators arranged for a short-term $30 million loan, which was used to make it appear that they had the funds needed to close on the sale. On Sept. 25, 2020, a title company based in Lakewood, New Jersey, performed two simultaneous closings, one for the true sales price and another for the fraudulent sales price presented to the lender.
Separately, Silber and Schulman were managing members of Rhodium Capital Advisors, an entity that was involved in the acquisition and management of Williamsburg of Cincinnati, a large apartment complex in Cincinnati, Ohio. In March 2019, Williamsburg of Cincinnati was acquired for $70 million. However, Silber, Schulman, and other co-conspirators utilized a stolen identity to present a lender and Fannie Mae with a fraudulent purchase-and-sale contract for over $95 million and other fraudulent documents. On March 8, 2019, two closings were performed, one for the true $70 million sales price and another for the fraudulent over $95 million sales price presented to the lenders. Based on the co-conspirators’ false statements, the lender and Fannie Mae funded a loan in excess of $74 million for the purchase of Williamsburg of Cincinnati.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for the District of New Jersey; Inspector General Brian M. Tomney of the FHFA-OIG; Postal Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the USPIS Criminal Investigations Group; and Acting Inspector General Stephen M. Begg of the HUD-OIG made the announcement.
Trial Attorney Siji Moore of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Martha Nye for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the case.
Deafblind people in B.C. will continue to receive vital intervener services thanks to more than $654,000 in additional funding to support the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) Deafblind Community Services and the Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility.
Deafblind people require support to mitigate communication barriers resulting from dual loss of sight and hearing. Interveners provide specialized communication supports to people who are deafblind, making it easier for them to navigate day-to-day activities, such as grocery shopping, banking and attending appointments. Interveners support individuals who are deafblind using a variety of communication methods, including American Sign Language (both visual and tactile), two-hand manual, voiceover, print-on-palm and large-print notes.
This funding builds on more than $1.1 million provided to CNIB since 2022 to support a pilot initiative for intervener services. The new investment will extend intervener services for another year and will support more deafblind adults by funding the Wavefront Centre in addition to CNIB Deafblind Community Services.
Learn More:
For information about the Canadian National Institute for the Blind in B.C., visit: https://www.cnib.ca/en?region=bc
For information about the WaveFront Centre for Communication Accessibility, visit: https://www.wavefrontcentre.ca/
For information about the Accessible British Columbia Act and its implementation, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/about-the-bc-government/accessibility/legislation
Eligible Organizations and Groups can Apply for Funding up to $45,000 from the First Nations and Métis Community Partnership Projects Fund
Today, the Government of Saskatchewan is announcing that grant applications are open for the First Nations and Métis Community Partnership Projects fund. Grants up to $45,000 are available for innovative, community based First Nations and Métis projects that promote safe communities, strong families, student achievement or economic growth.
“Our government is proud to deliver support to First Nations and Métis communities and organizations for projects that directly benefit Indigenous people throughout the province,” Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs Eric Schmalz said. “These projects, led by Indigenous communities and organizations, help build safe communities, support strong families, improve student achievement and drive economic growth, supporting a stronger Saskatchewan.”
The spring deadline to submit project applications under the First Nations and Métis Community Partnership Projects fund is May 31.
This grant program is open to:
First Nation Band Councils and Tribal Councils;
Métis Nation–Saskatchewan locals and regions;
Indigenous representative organizations and Indigenous non-profit organizations;
Municipalities; and
Non-Indigenous non-profit organizations seeking authentic partnerships with Indigenous communities or whose primary programs/services benefit First Nations or Métis clientele.
In 2024-25, nine community partnership projects received a combined total of more than $200,000 in funding.
For full eligibility requirements, to submit an application, or view a list of previously funded projects, visit: saskatchewan.ca.
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), briefs the combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL
Back to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF)
VICENZA, Italy – Precision, speed and analytical expertise took center stage as geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), competed in a locally planned best mapper competition.
The competition, held at Caserma Ederle in Vicenza, Italy, challenged Soldiers to demonstrate their proficiency in geospatial analysis, cartography and terrain interpretation, all crucial for military planning and operational success. Designed to recognize the unit’s top geospatial professionals, the event emphasized innovative real-world applications while fostering a competitive spirit within the 517th GPC.
“As geospatial engineers, performing at our best means being comfortable with the pressure of quick turn-around deadlines, briefing high-ranking staff and providing tactical decision aids while under stress,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Jonathan Sanchez, a geospatial engineer sergeant and co-lead coordinator of the competition, 517th GPC, SETAF-AF. “Soldiers competing in the best mapper are tasked with doing all three in a single day, really honing their skills and abilities to contribute to future mission success.”
1 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Corey Herbert, left, and U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), brief their combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army illustration by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), participates in the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Riley Dibble, left, and U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), create a geospatial combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL4 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Luis Vargas, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, creates a geospatial combined obstacle overlay during the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by 1st Lt. Katherine Sibilla) (Photo Credit: SETAF Africa) VIEW ORIGINAL
Competitors started their day in darkness, at 4 a.m, with a physical fitness test consisting of a two-mile run, deadlift, hand release push-ups, pull-ups and a sprint-drag-carry event.
“Including the physical activities was important in challenging the members physically and mentally throughout the day to be able to see how well they can perform different aspects,” said U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th GPC, SETAF-AF, and competitor in the best mapper event
1 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participates in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, left, and Spc. Corey Herbert, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, left, and Spc. Peyton Couch, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL4 / 4Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Sgt. Riley Dibble, a geospatial engineer assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participates in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL
Moving from the early morning physical challenge, participants engaged in timed competitions where they created six warfighting function geospatial products and two briefs designed to test their communication skills.
Throughout the daylong event, competitors utilized the latest in innovation to hone their abilities, rapidly and accurately processing geospatial data. The tasks included map creation, terrain analysis and interpretation of satellite imagery.
“In all things, we are soldiers first, so performing at our best means being comfortable with the pressure of quick turn-around deadlines and operating in uncomfortable situations,” said Sanchez. “Physical events test the mental resilience and grit of the competitors as they must transition from physical to technical tasks multiple times throughout the competition.”
1 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Scott Clabough, left, and Spc. Corey Herbert, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL2 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell, SETAF-AF, best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL3 / 3Show Caption +Hide Caption –U.S. Army Spc. Bryce Wilkins, left, and Spc. Peyton Couch, geospatial engineers assigned to the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell (517th GPC), U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF), participate in a ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th GPC’s best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros)U.S. Army geospatial engineers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade and U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) participate in ruck march, the culminating event of the 517th Geospatial Planning Cell, SETAF-AF, best mapper competition at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, March 25, 2025. Geospatial engineers extract geographic data from satellite imagery, aerial photography and field reconnaissance, then use that data to create maps to help commanders visualize the battlefield and its terrain. SETAF-AF and the 173rd Airborne Brigade use this information to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa, as well as U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives. (U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) (Photo Credit: Maj. Joe Legros)VIEW ORIGINAL
“The competition was beneficial in working as a team and making products to support the warfighting functions, seeing what can be accomplished in a short timeframe and be presented to commanders,” said Wilkins.
As the 517th GPC continues to refine its capabilities, events like the best mapper competition ensure that its engineers remain at the forefront of geospatial innovation.
“I competed and won the first individual best mapper competition in Sept. of 2021, and competed in the first regional best mapper competition at Fort Leonard Wood last year,” concluded Sanchez. “We’re very proud of this year’s results. Competitions like this are an excellent opportunity to hone our skills as geospatial engineers and see how we stack up against the best in our field.”
Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)
Secretary of State Marco A. Rubio meets with Argentina Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein at the Department of State, on April 1, 2025.
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Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.
The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.
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Source: Republic of France in English The Republic of France has issued the following statement:
Today, April 1, 2025, France assumes the presidency of the United Nations Security Council for one month.
The Security Council’s main responsibility is ensuring international peace and security. As a Permanent Member, France is working with its partners to find answers to current challenges and conflicts.
France succeeds Denmark, which held the UN Security Council presidency last month, and precedes Greece, which will take up this position in May. The French Council presidency is therefore the center of a “European trimester,” enabling us to demonstrate our shared commitment to a multilateral system that functions effectively and abides by the UN Charter and international law.
In light of current challenges, the guiding principle of our presidency will be an emphasis on multilateral dialogue over power relations.
Russia’s war of aggression, which it has waged since February 2022 in contempt of the most fundamental principles of international law, will be central to our efforts. France will continue to strive for a just and lasting peace for Ukraine in accordance with the UN Charter.
The situation in the Middle East will be the topic of a ministerial-level meeting at the end of the month, chaired by the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs. International and regional partners will be invited to attend the meeting. It will reflect France’s commitment to peace in the region and will be part of the preparations for the international conference on the two-State solution jointly organized in New York by France and Saudi Arabia.
Given the seriousness of current conflicts, France will pay particular attention to the situation in the Great Lakes region, Sudan and South Sudan, and Haiti.
The French presidency will also initiate meetings devoted to peacekeeping operations and the protection of humanitarian workers – two strong commitments to support men and women on the ground who provide assistance to vulnerable populations. In order for multilateralism to be as effective as possible, France will continue its commitment to reforming the Security Council to improve representation.
Throughout its presidency, France will be guided by its commitment to multilateralism, the UN system, and respect for international law in maintaining international peace and security.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee Chairman Bill Huizenga delivered opening remarks at a subcommittee hearing titled, “How the Global Engagement Center Censored Americans.”
Watch Here
-Remarks-
This subcommittee is tasked with examining the public diplomacy functions of the State Department, commonly referred to as the R family of bureaus and offices. In December of 2024, Congress terminated an office within that family—the Global Engagement Center, also known as GEC—after its exposure coming out of an investigation that was done by this committee. The GEC was initially authorized for the statutory purpose of countering foreign propaganda and disinformation efforts.
Despite that mandate, for years the GEC instead deployed its shadowy network of grantees and sub-grantees to facilitate the censorship of American voices—especially if those voices were conservative and refused to align with the left-leaning establishment politics. Worst of all, this was being done using U.S. taxpayer dollars—your dollars.
In the same month the GEC was terminated, the Biden State Department restructured the office into a “counter-foreign information manipulation and interference hub,” also known as R-FIMI. The question we will be exploring today is whether this restructuring is actually in name only. Put simply: whether you call it GEC or R-FIMI, the State Department should never—and if I can help it, will never again—be in the business of silencing American voices.
Freedom of speech is a God-given right enshrined in the First Amendment of our nation’s Constitution. It is a right that President Trump and his administration are committed to zealously protecting. On his first day in office, President Trump signed the Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship executive order. This executive order makes clear that no federal government employees or taxpayer dollars may be used to engage in or facilitate the unconstitutional censorship of American citizens.
As the chairman of the subcommittee, I plan to introduce legislation that will codify that executive order. I’m hopeful that my colleagues will join me in enshrining these vital First Amendment protections into law.
I want to thank the panel for being here today. Ms. Jankowitz, thank you for your time. You publicly supported and even spearheaded censorship efforts under the previous administration—out of what some called the “Ministry of Truth.” Some had labeled you the Disinformation Czar—or I guess technically, Czarina. It is crucial that the American public receive answers and accountability for the actions taken by their own government to silence their voices.
Mr. Taibbi and Mr. Weingarten, your valiant reporting helped unearth the GEC’s role in the censorship of Americans. Mr. Taibbi, your groundbreaking work on the Twitter Files pulled back the curtain on how the federal bureaucracy colluded with—and in some cases pressured—social media companies to target American citizens engaged in protected political speech. Mr. Weingarten, your impactful work has unearthed how the GEC and its implementing partners deployed blacklists to obliterate conservative news publications—publications that the Biden administration disagreed with.
We, as Americans and as policymakers, must never allow these dark days of mass censorship to happen again. That is my goal.
H.R. 747 would amend the Fentanyl Sanctions Act to designate certain foreign entities and government officials as foreign opioid traffickers if they are found to be involved in the opioid industry in the People’s Republic of China and they fail to take steps to prevent opioid trafficking. Entities and officials so designated would be subject to sanctions.
In addition, the bill would require the Administration to report annually to the Congress on its work to prevent foreign opioid trafficking, including its investigations of certain entities in China; that requirement would end after 2029. H.R. 747 also would require regular reporting by the Administration on its use of authorities provided in the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to address the conditions that led to the declaration of national emergencies in the United States related to drug trafficking.
Under current law, the Administration can impose sanctions on Chinese entities and officials for involvement in opioid trafficking. If the enactment of H.R. 747 leads the Administration to broaden those sanctions, more people would be denied visas by the Department of State, resulting in an insignificant decrease in revenues from fees. Although most visa fees are retained by the Department of State and spent, some collections are deposited into the Treasury as revenues. Denying foreign nationals entry into the United States also would reduce direct spending on federal benefits (emergency Medicaid or federal subsidies for health insurance, for example) for which those people might otherwise be eligible.
The bill would block transactions involving certain assets either in the United States or under the control of people or entities in the United States. Under the bill, any person or entity violating those prohibitions would be subject to civil or criminal monetary penalties. Such penalties are recorded as revenues, and a portion can be spent without further appropriation.
On the basis of data about similar sanctions, CBO estimates any additional sanctions imposed under the bill would affect a small number of people. Thus, enacting H.R. 747 would have insignificant effects on revenues and direct spending, and would, on net, reduce deficits by insignificant amounts over the 2025-2035 period.
Using information about the cost of reports similar to those required by the bill, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 747 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. Such related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.
H.R. 747 would impose a private-sector mandate as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) by expanding the scope of authority for the Administration to regulate transactions between entities in the United States and foreign entities and officials of foreign governments who would be subject to sanctions under the bill. That expansion would result in additional burdens on individuals and entities, such as banks, in the United States that are required to monitor and report on foreign transactions and to block access to certain assets owned by sanctioned entities. It also would prohibit transactions between entities in the United States and sanctioned parties that otherwise would be permitted under current law.
The cost of the mandate would be any income or profit lost as a result of the bill’s enactment. CBO expects that because a small number of people or entities would be affected, the loss of income from any incremental increase in restrictions imposed by the bill would be small as well. CBO estimates that the cost of the mandate would fall well below the annual threshold established in UMRA for private-sector mandates ($206 million in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).
H.R. 747 contains no intergovernmental mandates as defined in UMRA.
The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Emma Uebelhor (for federal costs) and Brandon Lever (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.
An Alaska man pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to producing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
According to court documents, William Steadman, 35, of Juneau, a registered sex offender, enticed a young boy to engage in sexually explicit conduct, which Steadman recorded and posted on the dark web. After the CSAM was posted, law enforcement began working to determine who had created and posted the images. Even though Steadman attempted to hide his identify from law enforcement by using the dark web, a cryptocurrency payment for additional CSAM and thorough analysis of online statements tied to his alias led to his identification and arrest. A search of Steadman’s residence led to the discovery of over 4,000 images and videos of CSAM on his devices.
Steadman pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography. He is scheduled to be sentenced on a later date and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 50 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska; Special Agent in Charge Glen Peterson of the U.S. Secret Service’s Seattle Field Office made the announcement.
The Secret Service’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigated the case.
Trial Attorney McKenzie Hightower of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mac Caille Petursson for the District of Alaska are prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Rhode Island was among a group of states that filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Rhode Island today against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the premature termination of grants that support critical public health services.
“Investments in public health make our communities healthier and safer, and they save lives,” said Director of Health Jerry Larkin, MD. “These grants support critical work to prevent deadly infectious diseases, ensure people are vaccinated, prevent outbreaks of foodborne illness, modernize many of our core laboratory functions, Medical Examiner’s Office, and public health data systems, amongst other work. These are public health services that Rhode Islanders paid for and deserve. I want to thank the legal team and program staff at RIDOH and the Attorney General’s Office for all the work that went into today’s filing.”
Today’s filing was co-led by Attorney General Peter F. Neronha and attorneys general from other states. In coordination with the Office of Governor Dan McKee and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) provided detailed affidavits for the filing, outlining the impact of these terminations. With this lawsuit, Attorney General Neronha and the coalition are seeking a temporary restraining order to halt the terminations of these grants.
Last week RIDOH, received notice of the termination of four grants from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that represented roughly $31 million in public health funding. These grants originally came to RIDOH during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as they were renewed over time, their scopes were expanded by CDC to prepare Rhode Island for future pandemics and strengthen the public health system in Rhode Island. For example, these grants support:
–Surveillance, outbreak response, engagement in care, and other infectious disease prevention and control activities. This decreases rates of infectious diseases in Rhode Island, including respiratory pathogens, foodborne illnesses, HIV, hepatitis C, congenital syphilis, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and tuberculosis. It also helps prevent disease clusters and outbreaks. –Occupational health, biosafety risk activities, biosafety training, and other functions. This funding also supports some core laboratory functions and administration as well as the replacement of obsolete laboratory equipment and systems (for example, a modernized Laboratory Information Management System). –The public health infrastructure that surrounds vaccination in Rhode Island. This includes vaccination clinics, partnerships with community organizations to promote vaccination and increase vaccine confidence, proper vaccine storage, and upgrading our immunization registry. This work and these systems help Rhode Island maintain some of the highest vaccination rates in the country across all vaccine-preventable diseases (e.g., measles and other childhood vaccines, and seasonal vaccinations).
RIDOH will continue to coordinate with the Office of the Rhode Island Attorney General, the Governor’s Office, and EOHHS as this suit moves forward.
Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)
“We have terrorist organizations coming after the United States everywhere because the Biden administration has done nothing for four years.”
Washington, D.C. –On Sunday, U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) joined NBC’s Kristen Welker on Meet the Press to discuss the Trump administration’s return to peace through strength, successful Houthi strikes, pending newsanctions on Russia, and the president’s efforts to level the playing field for American workers through reciprocal tariffs. Highlights below.
Sen. Mullin’s full interview can be found here.
On the success of the strikes against the Houthis:
“There was no war plans that The Atlantic put out. What they did was have a very successful attack against the Houthis, who’s a terrorist organization, that’s been harassing our Navy since 2023. They had attacked our Navy 174 times and the Biden Administration did nothing but sit on their hands. But what the Trump administration did was take the fight directly to the Houthis. So what the conversation should be is why didn’t the Biden Administration do something in the last two years instead of us being focused on this Signal chat. Which there was no classified information given out…
“Tell me where the location was at, what part of the region was it at, what part of the world was this at? We have a lot of conflicts, a lot of issues going on around the world, from Africa to anywhere in the Middle East, to even in Asia, or possibly in Europe. This could have been going on any place in the world. There was no specific information except that a target was gonna be hit. We have terrorist organizations coming after the United States everywhere because the Biden administration has done nothing for four years.”
On President Trump standing up to Russia:
“What President Trump is trying to do is negotiate an end to the deal of individuals dying in Ukraine…
“What President Trump has said right now is, if [Putin] continues to play games, he’s going to get tough on Russia just like he did in 2017.”
On our trade partners needing to abide by a two-way street:
“[Canada] needs us more than we need them. The fact is we have been subsidizing their economy by the tunes of billions of dollars every single year, and they know that. What President Trump is saying is that enough is enough. If you’re gonna have a relationship with the United States, it’s gonna be an even playing field, a two-way street. We want reciprocal tariffs; we want to be treated the same. We want to have access to your economy like you have access to us.”
The Government of Saskatchewan is now accepting nominations for the Lieutenant Governor’s Post-Secondary Teaching Award. This provincial award recognizes post-secondary educators who excel in teaching and are dedicated to providing high-quality education.
“I am pleased and honoured to support this prestigious awards program,” Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre said. “I encourage nominations of our province’s outstanding post-secondary educators in appreciation of their significant contributions to their students and their profession.”
Nominations are open between April 1 and June 30, 2025. Nominations are peer-to-peer and are endorsed by the President, Vice-President, Provost or Designate of publicly funded post-secondary institutions in Saskatchewan. Nominees must be actively teaching and demonstrate commitment to enhancing student engagement and learning, have a strategic and intentional approach to teaching practices and continually strive for teaching improvement.
“The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to recognize the dedication and leadership of our post-secondary educators,” Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. “This award is our way of thanking the exceptional educators who enrich our post-secondary sector and play a key role in shaping the future leaders of our province.”
Recipients of this award are recognized under four categories:
Distinguished Teaching Award
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Teaching Award
Indigenous Teaching Excellence Award
Innovative Teaching Award
Award recipients will be announced in the fall of 2025. For more information about the award, eligibility and nomination process, visit: www.saskatchewan.ca/government/heritage-honours-and-awards/lieutenant-governors-post-secondary-teaching-award.
OLYMPIA — Attorney General Nick Brown today joined a coalition of 24 states in filing a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., for abruptly and illegally terminating $11 billion in critical public health grants to the states.
The grant terminations, which came with no warning or legally valid explanation, have quickly caused chaos for state health agencies that rely on these critical funds for a wide range of urgent public health needs such as infectious disease management, fortifying emergency preparedness, providing mental health and substance abuse services, and modernizing public health infrastructure.
“We can’t make America healthy by spreading preventable diseases,” Brown said. “Aside from the illegality of these actions, the administration is also choosing to neglect the biggest public health challenges, including substance abuse and mental health crises, facing our communities.”
Washington stands to lose more than $159 million from these cancellations by HHS. If the funding is not restored, important state public health programs and initiatives will have to be dissolved or disbanded. Washington’s Department of Health has already had to cancel its Care-A-Van mobile health clinics that provide health care, including vaccinations and health education, to historically underserved communities. The program prioritizes rural areas, BIPOC communities, immigrants and refugees, unhoused populations, children and schools, and other vulnerable populations.
These federal awards terminations also threaten Washington’s Health Care Authority’s network of regional Behavioral Health Administrative Service Organizations, which provide behavioral health services to low-income non-Medicaid individuals with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders, populations disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The HHS cuts threaten the urgent public health needs of states around the country at a time when emerging disease threats—such as measles and bird flu—are on the rise, Brown warned.
Congress authorized and appropriated new and increased funding for these grants in COVID-19-related legislation to support critical public health needs. Many of these grants are from specific programs created by Congress, such as block grants to states for mental health and substance abuse and addiction services. Yet, with no legal authority or explanation, Secretary Kennedy’s HHS agencies on March 24 arbitrarily terminated these grants “for cause” effective immediately, claiming that the pandemic is over and the grants are no longer necessary.
In their lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Rhode Island, the coalition of states assert that the mass terminations violate federal law because the end of the pandemic is not a “for cause” basis for ending the grants, especially since none of the appropriated funds are tied to the end of the pandemic. HHS’ position, up until a few days ago, was that the end of the pandemic did not affect the availability of these grant funds. HHS has not pointed to any failure on the part of the states in complying with their agreements with HHS that would warrant the federal government’s unlawful terminations.
With this lawsuit, the coalition is seeking a temporary restraining order to invalidate HHS’s and Secretary Kennedy’s mass grant terminations in the suing states, arguing that the actions violate the Administrative Procedure Act. The states are also asking the court to prevent HHS from maintaining or reinstating the terminations and any agency actions implementing them.
Attorneys General Brown, Phil Weiser of Colorado, Peter Neronha of Rhode Island, Rob Bonta of California, and Keith Ellison of Minnesota are co-leading the litigation. They are joined by the Attorneys General of Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai‘i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Wisconsin, as well as the Governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
The lawsuit can be found here.
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(COLUMBIA, S.C.)–Attorney General Alan Wilson joined a coalition of 25 state attorneys general asking the Trump administration to close a loophole used by adversaries and drug traffickers to flood deadly fentanyl into the United States. In a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem and Acting Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Pete Flores, the attorneys general call for greater scrutiny of an import pilot program called Entry Type 86, which allows small packages to enter the U.S. with minimal customs screening.
“Fentanyl is killing our family members, friends, and neighbors, and we can’t afford to leave the door open for drug traffickers to exploit weak spots in our system,” said Attorney General Wilson. “The Entry Type 86 program has become a Trojan horse, allowing deadly drugs to flood into our communities with minimal oversight. I’m proud to stand with my fellow attorneys general and President Trump’s administration to demand immediate action to close this loophole and protect American lives. South Carolina will not sit back while drug cartels poison our families.”
In just a 10-year period, imports under the Entry Type 86 program skyrocketed from 153 million packages in 2015 to over 1.2 billion in 2024. Any surge of this magnitude requires further study because of serious concerns about the amount of fentanyl and other deadly drugs that could be coming into the country. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid narcotic up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. As little as two milligrams of fentanyl – smaller than the tip of a pencil – can be lethal.
In addition, some shippers use the Entry Type 86 program to dodge regulations and avoid paying required duties, raising concerns about security risks, illegal trade, and weaknesses in our supply chain.
Attorney General Wilson joined Kentucky, which led the letter, alongside attorneys general from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia and Wyoming.
Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Philip Leech-Ngo, Visiting Professor, Ethics and International Development, L’Université d’Ottawa/University of Ottawa
However, true independence goes beyond economic concerns. It’s about cultivating, committing to and preserving democratic values, including the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms, and ways of governance that ensure every person is valued, represented and belongs.
Historically, Canada has provided refuge to those who have risked everything to oppose authoritarian regimes, including activists living in exile.
Activists-in-exile are individuals who have been forced to flee their countries due to their work defending human rights, advocating for democratic governance, rooting out corruption, peacebuilding, demanding environmental protection and practising independent journalism, among other endeavours.
These individuals bring with them not only their personal stories and attitudes of resilience, but also their expertise in governance, human rights and social justice. As Canada faces growing challenges and uncertainty, they represent a tremendous potential asset to help Canada defend democracy and promote sustainable peace and development.
A vital force for democracy
Despite their displacement, activists-in-exile continue to play a crucial role in global democratic movements. Unlike traditional diaspora groups focused on cultural preservation, activists-in-exile engage in direct political advocacy and often work to expose foreign interference, counter disinformation and support democratic movements from afar.
By welcoming these activists, Canada could strengthen its own institutions — domestically and abroad — and make them more resistant to the forces that undermine democracy, justice and freedom worldwide. Their work is critical in resisting authoritarianism and countering both digital and physical foreign interference.
Overlooking activists-in-exile
Despite their potential, activists-in-exile are often overlooked or met with skepticism in Canada.
Some Canadian politicians, like federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, have framed their views of patriotism as a matter of national security and economic self-sufficiency, warning against foreign influences. Poilievre recently said immigrants should “leave the war behind” when coming to Canada, implying their past struggles should be forgotten upon arrival.
This is certainly easier said than done, especially in an age where technology can keep people instantly connected across borders. It’s unrealistic and unfair to expect newcomers simply to forget who supported them in their hour of need or the communities that continue to suffer in their absence. They are also unlikely to surrender ongoing interests or their basic values.
Through our work with Voices in Exile, we have learned that many newcomers involuntarily leave behind family, livelihoods and status, only to face significant hurdles re-establishing themselves in Canada. While some activists-in-exile persist and continue to be impactful, they often do so under unnecessary constraints that limit their full potential.
At the same time, activists-in-exile should not be treated solely as victims or as potential risks, particularly in light of growing transnational repression. Instead, their specialized knowledge and skills should be recognized as a force to strengthen democracy both in Canada and their countries of origin.
A strategic investment
Recognizing and supporting activists-in-exile would be a strategic investment for Canada, not an act of charity. Many have become educators, researchers and policymakers, shaping debates on governance and security.
Others have founded organizations, launched media platforms and built networks that support democracy movements globally. As our project Voices in Exile shows, many activists-in-exile also contribute to Canada’s economy, and work in law, social and psycho-social services, and the media landscape.
Yet, despite their vast potential, there is no tailored public policy or dedicated institution to harness this human capital in a way that aligns with Canada’s democratic commitments. The existing guidelines for supporting human rights defenders are insufficient for supporting activists-in-exile.
Canada should support exiled activists by facilitating collaboration among these individuals and Canadian public, academic, community, government and civil society organizations. In addition, Canada should establish a legal framework that allows activists-in-exile to contribute to the development of foreign policy. A dedicated fund should also be created that offers financial support for their activist efforts.
As global authoritarianism continues to rise, the question is not whether we should acknowledge activists-in-exile — it is whether we have the wisdom to lead by example and invest in recognizing and supporting them.
Philip Leech-Ngo receives funding from Open Societies Foundation
Frederick John Packer has received funding from SSHRC and OSF.
Nadia Abu-Zahra has received funding from SSHRC and OSF.