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Category: Education

  • MIL-OSI Russia: HSE Graduate School of Economics Wins ESG Excellence Award

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    ESG Excellence Award is an annual award for achievements in the field of sustainable development and ESG that have significant social effects. Among the laureates and nominees of the award are the largest Russian companies – leaders of the ESG agenda, as well as companies and organizations that have made a tangible contribution to the sustainable development of the Russian economy and society.

    The HSE project to prepare globally competitive and socially responsible business leaders for the digital economy, possessing professional competencies in the field of sustainable development and ESG, received well-deserved recognition from the jury of the award. The project is being implemented jointly by representatives of the academic, professional and business communities, in particular, at the international level the partners are PRME, NBS Sustainability Centres Community; at the national level – the National ESG Alliance, SBER, the Agency for Strategic Initiatives, the Bank of Russia, Polyus, Norilsk Nickel, RUSAL, SIBUR, Rosatom, X5 Group, KEPT, E Change, YouSocial and other representatives of Russian business.

    The main objectives of the project are:

    Creation of innovative academic disciplines covering the main aspects of sustainable development, ESG and digital technologies, and development of a modern educational and methodological complex with a focus on problem-based learning; Implementation of project-based learning through the implementation of applied projects from customers from the professional and business community, organization of internships and practices in companies integrating the principles of sustainable development and ESG into their activities; Development of a culture of responsible behavior and management within the HSB to develop leadership qualities and management skills of students and graduates aimed at cultural and social change; Conducting applied scientific research in the field of sustainable development and ESG, contributing to the identification of best practices and new approaches with the involvement of students and graduates.

    We congratulate our colleagues on their victory and wish them further success!

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Remarks in Kyiv by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom (As Delivered)

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Well, good afternoon.

    Thanks for welcoming me back to Kyiv, and to this proud academy.

    Director Nadolenko, I’m very grateful for those generous words.

    And speaking of outstanding diplomats: All Americans should be proud of our tireless and fearless ambassador, Bridget Brink. Ambassador, thanks for doing tremendous work.

    [Applause]

    Let me also thank my good friend, Minister Umerov. Rustem, thanks for that very kind introduction and for your tremendous service to your country.

    Ladies and gentlemen, it’s a great honor to be here with you today.

    I’d like to talk today about Ukraine’s just war of self-defense, and the road ahead.

    And I’d like to start by echoing the words of President Kennedy in his historic 1963 speech in Berlin.

    There are some who say that they don’t understand — or say they don’t understand — what is at stake between the free world and an aggressive tyrant like Putin.

    And I say to them: Let them come to Kyiv.

    There are some who say that both sides are to blame for Putin’s war of aggression.

    Let them come to Kyiv.

    There are some who blur the lines between aggressor and victim.

    Let them come to Kyiv.

    There are some who deny that the Kremlin targets Ukrainian civilians.

    Let them come to Kyiv.

    There are some who say that Ukraine isn’t a real nation.

    Let them come to Kyiv.

    And finally, there are some who claim that Ukraine lacks the courage to prevail.

    Let them come to Kyiv.

    Ladies and gentlemen, let us never forget how this war began.

    For years, Putin had harassed and assaulted the independent nation-state of Ukraine. On February 24, 2022, Putin crossed the line into an all-out invasion. And the Kremlin started the largest war in Europe since World War II.

    Now, Putin’s war of choice poses fundamental questions to every government and every person who seeks a decent and secure world.

    And so I ask today: Do rules matter?

    Do rights matter?

    Does sovereignty matter?

    I believe that they do.

    President Biden believes that they do.

    And every free citizen of Ukraine believes that they do.

    When the largest military in Europe becomes a force of aggression, the whole continent feels the shock.

    When a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council tries to deny self-rule to more than 40 million people, the whole world feels the blow.

    And when a dictator puts his imperial fantasies ahead of the rights of a free people, the whole international system feels the outrage.

    And so that’s why nations of goodwill from every corner of the planet have seen and have risen to Ukraine’s defense. And that’s why the United States and our allies and partners have proudly become the arsenal of Ukrainian democracy.

    America’s values call us to stand by a peaceful democracy fighting for its life. And America’s security demands that we stand up to Putin’s aggression.

    America’s security demands that we stand up to Putin’s aggression.

    Ukraine matters to U.S. security for four blunt reasons.

    Putin’s war threatens European security.

    Putin’s war challenges our NATO allies.

    Putin’s war attacks our shared values.

    And Putin’s war is a frontal assault on the rules-based international order that keeps us all safe.

    Now, this invasion hasn’t gone the way that the Kremlin planned. After 970 days of war, Putin has not achieved one single strategic objective.

    Not one.

    President Zelenskyy didn’t flee. Kyiv didn’t fall. And Ukraine didn’t fold.

    Instead, Russia has paid a staggering price for Putin’s imperial folly.

    Russian forces have suffered hundreds of thousands of casualties since February 2022. According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Russian losses in just the first year of Putin’s war were more than Moscow’s losses in all of its conflicts since World War II—combined.

    And Russia has had to dig so deep into its Soviet stockpiles that it’s attacking Ukraine with tanks from the time of World War II.

    And Russia has squandered more than 200 billion dollars to sustain its invasion. And Russia has given up untold billions of dollars more in previously anticipated economic growth.

    Now, Ukraine has suffered terribly at Putin’s hands.

    Since February 2022, according to the U.N., Russian forces have killed more than 11,000 Ukrainian civilians in verified civilian casualty incidents. And that includes more than 600 children.

    The U.N. says that Putin’s forces have bombed more than 250 Ukrainian schools and hospitals. And they’ve wrecked treasured sites of Ukrainian history, culture, and memory.

    But the Kremlin’s malice has not broken Ukraine’s spirit. Ukraine stands unbowed — and strengthened.

    You know, your fight began with soldiers setting tank ambushes on the streets of Kyiv, and with ordinary citizens making Molotov cocktails to defend their homes.

    And it continues today with a battle-tested Ukrainian military and security forces — and a roaring Ukrainian defense industrial base.

    Ukrainian factories are now pumping out some of the best UAVs in the world, and experienced Ukrainian air defenders are protecting their forces and their families. 

    And your soldiers have shown incredible skill. Your frontline defenders have shown heroic resolve. And your citizens have shown stunning courage.

    Ukraine’s resistance is powered by the emergency workers who rush to the scene; and by the energy workers who race to fix the damage of the Kremlin’s attacks; by the doctors who risk their own lives to save the wounded; by the nurses who provide comfort in hours of anguish; and by the clergy who tend to suffering souls; by the teachers who keep Ukraine’s schools open; and by the parents and grandparents who fight every day to keep their children safe and give them a future of peace.

    So your admirers around the world are studying the Ukrainian way of resistance. And we strongly encourage the reforms that Ukraine has launched to help realize its people’s hopes of joining the European Union and NATO. 

    Ukraine’s defenders have brought inspiration to the world — and glory to Ukraine.

    Slava Ukraini!

    [Audience responds in Ukrainian]

    Yet this struggle imposes obligations on us all. As President Biden told the U.N. General Assembly in September, “Our test is to make sure that the forces holding us together are stronger than the forces that are pulling us apart.”

    And make no mistake. The outcome of Ukraine’s fight for freedom will help set the trajectory for global security in the 21st century.

    Europe’s future is on the line.

    NATO’s strength is on the line.

    And America’s security is on the line.

    So the U.S. government has moved with urgency and purpose. And we’ve seen the huge progress that principled diplomacy can produce —the kind of diplomacy taught right here in this academy.

    Since April 2022, I have been convening the Ukraine Defense Contact Group — the coalition of some 50 countries from around the world determined to help Ukraine fight Putin’s aggression. The Contact Group has met 24 times now.

    And I know that Minister Umerov and my other Ukrainian friends often refer to the Contact Group as “the Ramstein format”— after Ramstein Air Base, where the Contact Group was forged.

    And each time that I’m back at Ramstein, I find it moving to look around that long table; to see in human form the global indignation over Putin’s crimes; and to see determined defense leaders from around the world — from Argentina to Australia, and from Tunisia to Türkiye.

    And it has worked.

    America’s allies and partners are sharing the burden of our shared security.

    And that’s the power of Ramstein.

    You know, as a percentage of GDP, a dozen U.S. allies and partners now provide more security assistance to Ukraine than the United States does. And members of the Contact Group have provided more than [51] billion dollars in direct security assistance to Ukraine.

    And I am proud to remind you that the United States is doing our part as well.

    My country has committed more than 58 billion dollars in security assistance for Ukraine since February 2022. We’ve delivered two Patriot batteries and dozens of other air-defense systems. We’ve provided 24 HIMARS [rocket] systems, and thousands of armored vehicles and drones, and millions of rounds of artillery and other critical munitions.

    Now, that is a very real financial commitment. But for anyone who thinks that American leadership is expensive — well, consider the price of American retreat.

    In the face of aggression, the price of principle is always dwarfed by the cost of capitulation.

    Our allies and partners know that. And I’ve been proud to watch the pro-Ukraine coalition dig deep.

    So just consider Germany, host to Ramstein Air Base. Germany alone has provided or committed to military assistance for Ukraine valued at close to 31 billion dollars.

    And through the Contact Group and its capability coalitions, Ukraine’s friends are now forging an unprecedented, coordinated, 13-country drive to increase industrial production, to meet Ukraine’s battlefield requirements, and to build up the force to deter and repel Russian aggression in the future.

    And so, not since World War II has America systematically rallied so many countries to provide such a range of industrial and military assistance for a partner in need.

    Now, there is no silver bullet. No single capability will turn the tide. No one system will end Putin’s assault.

    What matters is the way that Ukraine fights back. What matters is the combined effects of your military capabilities. And what matters is staying focused on what works.

    Now, I believe that President Biden and Vice President Harris will have a proud place in history for rallying the world to defend Ukraine.

    So will the allies and partners who seek a free Ukraine in a safer world.

    But the proudest place of all will go to the Ukrainian people.

    From President Zelenskyy on down, your leaders chose to fight back. And the people of Ukraine have met Russia’s aggression and atrocities with magnificent defiance.

    The spirit of Ukraine has inspired the world. And it has reminded us all to never take our freedom for granted.

    So we refuse to blame Ukraine for the Kremlin’s aggression.

    We refuse to offer excuses for Putin’s atrocities.

    And we refuse to pretend that appeasement will stop an invasion.

    We fully understand the moral chasm between aggressor and defender.

    And we will not be gulled by the frauds and the falsehoods of the Kremlin’s apologists.

    And we will continue to defend the Ukrainian people’s right to live in security and freedom.

    The Kremlin has forced us into an age where Europe’s largest military invades Europe’s second-largest country. And we dare not believe, as the novelist George Eliot once wrote, that “the giant forces that used to shake the earth are forever laid to sleep.”

    America’s goals remain clear, achievable, and principled. We seek a free and sovereign Ukraine that can defend itself from Russian aggression today — and deter Russian aggression in the future.

    We seek a more secure Europe — and a reinforced commitment from nations of goodwill worldwide to an open international system of rules, rights, and responsibilities.

    I know that the Kremlin’s war is a nightmare from which the Ukrainian people are trying to awake. But we should all understand that Putin’s assault is a warning. It is a sneak preview of a world built by tyrants and thugs — a chaotic, violent world carved into spheres of influence; a world where bullies trample their smaller neighbors; and a world where aggressors force free people to live in fear.

    So we face a hinge in history.

    We can continue to insist that cross-border invasion is the cardinal sin of world politics. And we can continue to stand firm against Putin’s aggression.

    Or we can let Putin have his way. And we can condemn our children and grandchildren to live in a far bloodier and more dangerous world.

    So we must continue to face, to squarely face, the specter of an aggressive Russia — backed by other autocrats from North Korea and Iran.

    If Ukraine falls under Putin’s boot, all of Europe will fall under Putin’s shadow.

    Putin is not just hammering at the norms of the international system built at such a terrible cost by the Allies after World War II. He is shoving us all toward a world where right — where might makes right, and where empire trumps sovereignty. And he is determined to show that his brand of autocracy can outlast the world’s democracies.

    You see, Putin does not just think that his will is stronger. He thinks that his system is better.

    But he could not be more wrong.

    You know, few forces are more powerful than a democracy fighting for freedom.

    As I have said: Peace is not self-executing. Order does not preserve itself. And the principles of freedom, and sovereignty, and human rights do not uphold themselves.

    Yes, there is a price to be paid for human freedom. But it is dwarfed by the price that we would all pay for letting aggression go unchecked.

    So President Biden has chosen the path of mutual responsibility and common security. And we have chosen to share the responsibility of ensuring that Ukraine remains sovereign and free.

    And make no mistake. The United States does not seek war with Russia. And even as Putin makes profoundly reckless and dangerous threats about nuclear war, we will continue to behave with the responsibility that the world rightly demands of a nuclear-armed state.

    So the United States will uphold our sworn NATO obligations.

    The United States will defend every inch of NATO territory.

    And the United States will get Ukraine what it needs to fight for its survival and security.

    [Applause]

    Ladies and gentlemen, let’s be clear.

    Ukraine does not belong to Putin.

    Ukraine belongs to the Ukrainian people.

    And Moscow will never prevail in Ukraine.

    You know, Putin thought that Ukraine would surrender. He was wrong.

    Putin thought that our democracies would cave. He was wrong.

    And Putin thought that the free world would cower. He was wrong.

    And Putin thinks that he will win. He is wrong.

    And as I said in Halifax almost two years ago: free people will always refuse to replace an open order of rules and rights with one dictated by force and fear.

    Now, Ukraine faces complex challenges in the days to come.

    And as then-Vice President Biden said at this academy in 2014, “Democracy is not a destination. Democracy is a road traveled. And it’s a hard damn road to travel.”

    But you have shown the world the moral power of a free people fighting to defend their country.

    That force can bend the arc of history.

    Ladies and gentlemen: never underestimate the strategic advantage of a just cause.

    Never underestimate the resolve of free citizens.

    And never underestimate the power of a democracy summoned to defend itself.

    Ukraine has chosen the course of courage.

    And so have we.

    My friends, you walk a hard road.

    But you do not walk it alone.

    Thank you. God bless you. And may God bless all who fight to defend freedom.

    [Standing ovation]

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GTCS accreditation for School of Education The School of Education is very pleased to announce that its Inclusive Pedagogy course has been awarded General Teaching Council Scotland (GTCS) accreditation for Professional Recognition.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The award recognises the need for high-quality professional learning and development programmes that ensure teacher professionalism is maintained and enhancedThe School of Education is very pleased to announce that its Inclusive Pedagogy course has been awarded General Teaching Council Scotland (GTCS) accreditation for Professional Recognition.
    A team of four presented an application to a GTCS panel for accreditation of the ED5501 Programme. The team included Programme Director Dr Shannon Babbie, faculty member Dr Annette Moir, PGT student Gillian Armstrong, and Dr Tracy Edwards of Leeds Beckett University, a recent doctoral graduate of Aberdeen.
    In a brief presentation the team brought the course to life through personal stories of how the teaching, collaboration and overall experience impacted their professional practice.
    In awarding accreditation, the GTCS stated the University offered: “A strong values-based programme in terms of social justice and meeting the needs of all learners. It is very well connected to the professional standards more broadly, with the standard for career-long professional learning coherently woven throughout the reflective supports for participants.
    “A well-designed programme clearly aligned with the Scottish Education policy context, it is well placed to help meet national priorities around inclusion.”
    Securing accreditation, which runs from 2024 to 2029, means students may apply to GTCS for professional recognition upon successful completion of the course and completion of the additional activities.
    As noted by GTCS, the award is in recognition of the need for high-quality professional learning and development programmes that ensure teacher professionalism is maintained and enhanced, and that learning experiences are professionally recognised and valued.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NIO Minister hails integrated education during visit to Fermanagh School

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    This follows Minister Anderson’s visit to Erne Integrated College

    NIO Minister Fleur Anderson captures a selfie during her visit to Erne Integrated College

    Northern Ireland Office Minister Fleur Anderson MP has visited Erne Integrated College in Enniskillen where she met with pupils and staff.

    As well as taking part in an interactive question and answer session, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State discussed diversity and inclusion with pupils, following a recent cultural day hosted by the Fermanagh school.

    Speaking afterwards, Minister Anderson said:

    It was fantastic to meet with the young people at Erne Integrated College, along with staff, and I would like to thank them for their warm welcome, and for their questions and insight.

    Seeing greater integration of education across Northern Ireland is a priority for the UK Government, and Erne Integrated College provides a wonderful environment for helping local children grow up in a truly shared society. This is an essential aspect of the reconciliation process.

    My hope is that integration will further become the norm and not the exception in schools across Northern Ireland.” 

    School principal, Darron McLaughlin, said:

    The College was delighted to welcome Minister Anderson. Our Student Council members have a great interest in local politics and were excited to have the opportunity to put their questions to the minister. Having recently celebrated our ‘Culture Day’, a group of our students were also keen to show how we celebrate diversity and live by our integrated ethos, where everyone is valued equally.

    Paul Caskey, chief executive of the Integrated Education Fund, and Sean Pettis, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education, said:

    The Integrated Education Fund and Council for Integrated Education are delighted Minister Anderson could take time out of her busy schedule to visit Erne Integrated College and meet with their young people, together with pupils from the adjacent Enniskillen Integrated Primary School. 

    There is no better way to learn about integrated education than by meeting the children and young people who experience it. The Northern Ireland Office has provided generous support to integrated education through both our organisations and we are extremely grateful for that. 

    It is important to remember that the UK government are custodians of the Good Friday (Belfast) Agreement and that the encouragement and facilitation of integrated education is an essential part of that Agreement.

    Separately, Minister Anderson also met with representatives from the Fermanagh Trust. They discussed some of the issues facing local residents and the wider area, including transport, Lough Erne, and access to public services and healthcare.

    NIO Minister Fleur Anderson engaging in an interactive Q&A session with school pupils.

    NIO Minister Fleur Anderson engaging in an interactive Q&A session with school pupils.

    NIO Minister Fleur Anderson at Erne Integrated College in Enniskillen. The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State is pictured with school pupils, principal Darron McLaughlin and Paul Caskey, chief executive of the Integrated Education Fund, and Sean Pettis, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education.

    NIO Minister Fleur Anderson with Paul Caskey (left), chief executive of the Integrated Education Fund, and Sean Pettis, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 22 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: TopLine Financial Credit Union Participates in Its 8th Statewide Day of Kindness

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based member-owned financial services cooperative, was one of the 60 credit unions and partner organizations across the state of Minnesota who participated in an orchestrated day, called CU Forward Day. A state-wide initiative of over 3,000+ credit union employees, members and partners coming together to do one simple thing – spread kindness and encourage others to do the same.

    TopLine has been participating in this collaborative credit union event since 2016, referred to as “CU Forward Day,” which is coordinated by the Minnesota Credit Union Network (MnCUN), the state trade association for Minnesota’s credit unions. CU Forward Day demonstrates what credit unions do best, collaborate and give back to their communities.

    TopLine’s theme for this year was “Connected, We All Do Better!” Over 143 TopLine participants volunteered over 554 hours and impacted nearly 2,800 Minnesotans at local community partner non-profit organizations including ACBC Food Shelf, Advent Lutheran Church, Avenues for Youth, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, CROSS Services, Family Alternatives, Karen Organization of Minnesota, Keystone Community Services, Maple Grove Hospital, MORE, NACE Food Shelf & Closet, Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities, YMCA Youth and Family Services and several local park clean-ups.

    Volunteers made a positive impact in the communities that TopLine serves by providing fall clean up at Advent Lutheran Church and Avenues for Youth, delivering meals to Keystone Meals on Wheels program participants, serving lunch to residents at Union Gospel Mission, a local ministry, providing aid to several local food shelves, assisting in park beautification, packing personal care kits and birthday bags at YMCA Youth & Family Services, creating inspirational signage for Maple Grove Hospital, packing and delivering 1,000 personal care kits and dental kits, creating 100 tie blankets, and knitting over 100 scarves for local foster youth at Family Alternatives. TopLine also hosted a bike drive to benefit Express Bike Shop, a nonprofit youth employment program, and collected 157 bikes to donate.

    “At TopLine, we believe that supporting our communities goes beyond financial services, and CU Forward Day is a great way to demonstrate our commitment to social responsibility efforts. By volunteering on this day, as well as throughout the year, and sharing our time and talents, we strengthen the bonds within our neighborhoods and contribute to the well-being of everyone we serve. Together, we make a real difference in lives,” says Mick Olson, TopLine President and CEO. “CU Forward Day showcases the credit union philosophy of “people helping people” and our true power of our Minnesota credit unions and partners working collectively together to make a positive impact across the state.”

    TopLine Financial Credit Union, a Twin Cities-based credit union, is Minnesota’s 9th largest credit union, with assets of over $1.1 billion and serves over 70,000 members. Established in 1935, the not-for-profit financial cooperative offers a complete line of financial services from its ten branch locations — in Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Circle Pines, Coon Rapids, Forest Lake, Maple Grove, Plymouth, St. Francis and in St. Paul’s Como Park — as well as by phone and online at http://www.TopLinecu.com or http://www.ahcu.coop. Membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or volunteers in Anoka, Benton, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Washington and Wright counties in Minnesota and their immediate family members, as well as employees and retirees of Anoka Hennepin School District #11, Anoka Technical College, Federal Premium Ammunition, Hoffman Enclosures, Inc., GRACO, Inc., and their subsidiaries. Visit us on our Facebook or Instagram. To learn more about the credit union’s foundation, visit http://www.TopLinecu.com/Foundation.

    CONTACT:
    Vicki Roscoe Erickson
    Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer
    TopLine Financial Credit Union
    verickson@toplinecu.com | 763.391.0872

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/499f20d8-0258-4ca3-8f6a-d8ed16f9d99e

    The MIL Network –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: DAUPHIN COUNTY – Shapiro Administration Recognizes Winners of Pennsylvania School Bus Safety Poster Contest, Driving Competition

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    December 23, 2024 – Harrisburg, PA

    ADVISORY – DAUPHIN COUNTY – Shapiro Administration Recognizes Winners of Pennsylvania School Bus Safety Poster Contest, Driving Competition

    Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton and Pennsylvania State Police School Bus Safety Division Supervisor for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Division of the Bureau of Patrol Corporal Zeina Black will recognize student winners of the 2024 School Bus Safety Poster Contest and winning school bus drivers from the statewide 2024 School Bus Safety Competition.

    Winners of this year’s School Bus Safety Poster Contest are from schools in Allegheny, Berks, Centre, Northumberland, Snyder and Somerset counties. Winners of the school bus driver’s competition are from Chester County.

    WHO:
    PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton
    PSP School Bus Safety Division Supervisor for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Division, Bureau of Patrol Corporal Zeina Black

    WHEN:
    Wednesday, October 23 at 10:00 AM

    WHERE:
    State Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 North Street, Harrisburg

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: As a federal election campaign looms, Canadians must demand stronger ethics laws from politicians

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ian Stedman, Associate Professor, Canadian Public Law & Governance, York University, Canada

    Canadian politics is at a crossroads. When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took office in 2015, his open letter to Canadians promised them accountability and transparency. As Trudeau’s time as prime minister seems to be winding down, however, his government has been subject to nearly two dozen conflict-of-interest investigations, with Trudeau himself even violating conflict laws.

    Partisan vitriol, electioneering and political brinkmanship are ramping up, with pressing issues like inflation, crime, climate action and housing set to dominate the political news cycle. What must not get lost amid these policy concerns is the urgent need to strengthen Canada’s governmental ethics and accountability laws, especially given the growing Canadian distrust in politicians.

    That includes distrust of those in the current government. A 2023 poll found that two-thirds of 1,632 respondents don’t trust the Trudeau government, with only about a third expressing confidence in the Prime Minister’s Office and less than half trusting the House of Commons.

    The prime minister’s high-profile conflict-of-interest violations highlight the inadequacy of accountability measures. They illustrate that federal ethics laws need reform, particularly the Conflict of Interest Act that applies to public office holders (the Conflict of Interest Code applies to MPs in their role as MPs while the act applies to MPs in their role as ministers or parliamentary secretaries).

    As researchers who focus on the laws of public sector ethics and accountability, we believe ethics issues must be kept in public view and political parties should be pressured to offer meaningful reform ideas in their campaign and party platforms.



    Read more:
    U.S. election results may suggest ethics no longer matter … just like in Canada

    Trudeau’s conflict violations

    Trudeau first breached conflict-of-interest laws in late 2016 and early 2017, when he vacationed with his family on the private Caribbean island of the Aga Khan, a spiritual leader whose foundation is registered to lobby and has received money from the government.

    The prime minister accepted private helicopter travel and other gifts, violating multiple sections of the Conflict of Interest Act.

    Mary Dawson, the ethics commissioner at the time, found that Trudeau had failed to avoid a conflict or to seek advice from her office before accepting the trip. Despite these conclusions, Trudeau faced no formal punishment.

    Trudeau’s second violation was revealed in 2019 amid the SNC-Lavalin affair. In a nutshell, the prime minister attempted to pressure then-Attorney General Jody Wilson-Raybould to intervene in a criminal prosecution against the engineering firm, which has its head offices in the same province as Trudeau’s electoral riding.



    Read more:
    SNC-Lavalin & the need for fresh thinking around independence and interference

    The ethics commissioner concluded that Trudeau used his position in an attempt to improperly serve SNC-Lavalin’s interests, breaching provisions of the Conflict of Interest Act. While this scandal rocked the Liberals, Trudeau again faced no real consequences for his actions apart from some ministerial resignations and possibly a failure to gain more Liberal seats in the October 2019 election.

    These incidents have helped foster an environment where conflict-of-interest violations have become normalized. Former ministers Bill Morneau and Yasmin Ratansi, Liberal House Speaker Greg Fergus, current ministers Mary Ng and Randy Boissonnault, along with various government appointees, have all been caught in ethics scandals.

    No consequences

    Regardless of which party holds power, a striking flaw in Canada’s political ethics framework is the lack of clear consequences for violating the Conflict of Interest Act. While ethics commissioners have the authority to investigate and report on violations, their reports are published online and submitted to the prime minister, who then decides whether any consequences will apply.

    Any penalties the commissioner can impose are laughably small, with administrative monetary penalties of no more than a paltry $500 for failing to meet reporting requirements.

    This critical gap places the responsibility for imposing consequences under the act on the person who may have been the one to violate the rules, which is sometimes the leader of the government.

    The prime minister decides on the punishment, even if the investigation concerns a cabinet member. This raises concerns about impartiality. Is there any incentive for the prime minister to actually hold colleagues accountable when they violate conflict-of-interest laws?

    And what message does it send to an already distrustful electorate when the prime minister and his inner circle can repeatedly violate conflict laws, then determine whether they should face consequences for their actions?

    Ongoing ethics concerns

    Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who was tenacious in 2020 when grilling the prime minister over conflict-of-interest concerns during the WE Charity scandal, seems determined to continue challenging the Liberals on their ethics record.

    Poilievre interrogates Trudeau over the prime minister’s third conflict investigation in five years, this one concerning the WE Charity scandal in 2020. (CTV News)

    Poilievre’s Conservatives recently raised concerns over the controversial appointment of Mark Carney as a special adviser to the Liberal Party. Being appointed to a party position instead of a government job allows Carney to avoid the ethics commissioner’s scrutiny of his private interests yet still advise government officials.

    Additionally, accusations that the Liberals mismanaged the Sustainable Development Technology Canada fund and used it as a “slush fund” for party insiders recently caused Parliament to grind to a halt. The government has refused to provide information on how the fund was managed.

    At the same time, allegations that Trudeau has avoided taking responsibility for foreign interference in Canada’s elections have provided the opposition with further ethics ethics ammunition for an election campaign looming on the horizon.

    Given Trudeau’s poor polling numbers, recent reports about Liberal MPs calling for him to step down and the imminence of yet another cabinet shuffle, government ethics and accountability must take centre stage if the country is to rebuild Canadian trust in government. Updating the Conflict of Interest Act would be a strong and necessary starting point.

    Ethics aren’t a luxury

    Since the Conflict of Interest Act cannot be updated without the involvement of legislators, a cynical observer might wonder how ethics standards can be strengthened.

    One answer is that the Conservatives’ relentless push for an election gives the public a perfect opportunity to demand that proposals to improve conflict-of-interest laws are part of the campaign platforms of all parties.

    This is exactly what happened in 2006 when Stephen Harper led the Conservatives to victory by pledging a more ethical and accountable Ottawa, although his government ultimately faced its own share of scandals.

    Ethical lapses in leadership must not be treated as secondary to pressing economic and social issues. Having a government that continuously strengthens and upholds its ethical standards should not be considered a luxury.

    Strong ethical governance is needed to restore and maintain public trust and to ensure our elected officials are working hard on behalf of Canadians — not in their own self-interest.

    Ian Stedman receives research funding from SSHRC and CIHR. He is also the 2024-25 Jocelyne Bourgon Visiting Scholar at the Canada School of Public Service.

    Matthew Cerilli does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. As a federal election campaign looms, Canadians must demand stronger ethics laws from politicians – https://theconversation.com/as-a-federal-election-campaign-looms-canadians-must-demand-stronger-ethics-laws-from-politicians-241710

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Setting the Stage for Growth: Bank of Glen Burnie Names New Director of Commercial Banking and Vice President of Cash Management

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GLEN BURNIE, Md., Oct. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Bank of Glen Burnie®, a wholly owned subsidiary of Glen Burnie Bancorp (NASDAQ: GLBZ), expanded its business banking team. Jonathan Shearin was named director of commercial banking and Ed Abedi was named vice president of cash management, announced Mark C. Hanna, President and CEO of Glen Burnie Bancorp and The Bank of Glen Burnie.

    Hanna commented, “We are thrilled to welcome Jonathan and Ed to the team. Growing our ability to serve the businesses of Anne Arundel County is goal number one for the Bank. As an independent, community-driven bank, we’re uniquely positioned to support small businesses—the backbone of job creation. Jonathan will champion this message in his role, ensuring that local companies know we have the products, services and people to meet their needs. Ed will play a key role in enhancing our digital services to keep pace with continually evolving demands.”

    Jonathan Shearin most recently served as a commercial relationship manager at Shore United Bank, where he worked with companies to provide banking solutions tailored to their operations and growth. Prior to this, he was a commercial relationship manager at Primis, overseeing and developing a portfolio of over $220 million. His banking career began with roles in treasury management and commercial lending at Eastern Virginia Bankshares, where he supported credit analysis and client management. He is a graduate of Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in business with a concentration in finance.

    Shearin shared, “I am pleased to join the Bank of Glen Burnie. With a 75-year legacy of commitment to community and service, the Bank has deep roots in supporting local businesses. My focus will be on carrying forward that tradition, helping businesses thrive as we strengthen those connections.”

    Ed Abedi has over two decades of experience in commercial banking and treasury management. Most recently, he served as vice president of commercial banking at HTLF, a regional bank headquartered in Denver, Colorado. His previous roles include positions at First Horizon Bank, EagleBank, PNC, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch (now BofA Securities), where he specialized in treasury management and commercial banking solutions. Ed is a graduate of California’s San Francisco State University.

    Abedi shared, “The right digital banking tools enable companies to operate more efficiently and strategically. My role is to ensure businesses fully leverage these technologies to their advantage, which will enhance their overall experience with the Bank of Glen Burnie. I’m excited to join this team and to serve our valued customers as we continue to innovate.”

    About Glen Burnie Bancorp

    Glen Burnie Bancorp is a bank holding company headquartered in Glen Burnie, Maryland. Founded in 1949, The Bank of Glen Burnie® is a locally owned community bank with eight Anne Arundel County branches. The Bank is engaged in commercial and retail banking, including accepting demand and time deposits and originating loans to individuals, associations, partnerships, and corporations. The Bank’s real estate financing consists of residential first and second mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit and commercial mortgage loans. The Bank also originates automobile loans through arrangements with local automobile dealers. Additional information is available at thebankofglenburnie.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The statements contained herein that are not historical financial information may be deemed to constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, which could cause the company’s actual results in the future to differ materially from its historical results and those presently anticipated or projected. These statements are evidenced by terms such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “should,” “expect,” “believe,” “intend,” and similar expressions. Although these statements reflect management’s good faith beliefs and projections, they are not guarantees of future performance and they may not prove true. For a more complete discussion of these and other risk factors, please see the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/634043fc-d456-4ff0-ab1a-e933cc748e3d

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2fe23ee6-9936-4985-ad76-c6f68b1003f0

    The MIL Network –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Competing for Student Well-Being

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    For students at UConn Health, prioritizing well-being can be challenging among the many demands of the classroom, research labs, and clinics.

    This is why the School of Medicine’s Wellness Committee hosted the first annual Husky Bowl, a weekend long Olympics-style event where dental, medical, and graduate students are invited to attend wellness centered activities to earn points for their schools.

    “Medical, dental, and graduate school is often demanding,” said lead organizer and fourth-year medical student Omonike Oyelola. “We don’t always get to know our fellow classmates beyond the academic setting. The data shows that levels of stress and burnout are often high among those in health care professions, making events like this of the utmost importance. We wanted to create the Husky Bowl in order to be able to build a foundation of community, connectedness, and self care that could progress throughout the academic year, if not longer.”

    The main goal is to promote student well-being while helping to build community.

    “The Husky Bowl more than anything presents a low-stress opportunity for students from all three programs to enjoy community and togetherness in a fun and meaningful way,” said Dr. Adam Perrin, associate professor of family medicine and director of student wellness at UConn Health. “The array of activities offered provides many opportunities for students to get to know each other better and ideally create lasting bonds. Social support, physical fitness, brain fitness and humor are all essential factors in promoting resilience, and all were in play over the course of the Husky Bowl. We hope to see this event, the creation and implementation of which was driven by MS4 Nike Oyelola and her team, become an annual fall offering.”

    The event kicked off on a Friday evening with an opening ceremony and trivia, and lasted all day on Saturday with events such as yoga, scavenger hunt, paint class, nature walk at the West Hartford Reservoir, iron chef competition, and basketball, pickleball, and ping pong tournaments. Each student could earn points for their team, three different learning communities, by participating in events. Students also received raffle tickets for each event they attended that went toward a drawing for self care items. Local companies further extended the theme of community connection by donating snacks towards the event.

    “All events were held in low-pressure, welcoming, and supportive environments so that anyone could join, whether it was their first time or if they had been doing that activity for years,” said Oyelola.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Award-Winning UConn Medical Students

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn School of Medicine students won research poster competition awards at the annual American College of Physicians (ACP) Connecticut Chapter Scientific Meeting 2024 on October 18.

    Lily Zhong (right) accepting the first place award on Oct. 18.

    The meeting, held at nearby Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, gathered together the state’s general internists, subspecialty internists, hospitalists, allied health practitioners, residents, and medical students.

    Fourth-year UConn medical student Lily Zhong won first place for her research poster presentation on Frailty, Social Deprivation, and Mortality Among Medicare Fee-for-Service Beneficiaries.

    While Adam Lamothe of the Class of 2027 won third place for his research presentation about AIRE Hartford: A three-pronged approach to indoor air quality.

    Adam Lamothe (left) won third place in the research poster competition. Here he is with fellow UConn medical student presenters on Oct. 18.

    Dr. Jaclyn Cox proudly serves as the faculty advisor for Internal Medicine.

    Other UConn medical students also presented their research posters at the meeting about their research study findings or clinical case studies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: How Trump’s Project 2025 Would Attack Working People, Unions

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Trump’s Project 2025 is the 920-page document, written by at least 140 Trump advisers and former (and likely future) leaders in the Trump administration, that spells out what they plan to do during a Trump second term.

    The AFL-CIO broke it down for us: How would this agenda affect union members and working families?

    We are deeply concerned about pro-corporate policies that would drive up costs, put people out of work, endanger people’s lives and make it harder for working people to get ahead. For unions, this agenda would make it tougher for members to win gains in our next contracts and stack the deck in favor of CEOs. 

    Learn how Trump’s Project 2025 agenda would affect:

    • Ability to Organize
    • Workers’ Rights
    • Health and Safety
    • Government Workers
    • Retirement Security
    • Civil Rights 
    • Consumer Rights
    • Education 
    • Transportation
    • Immigration

    Visit betterinaunion.org for more information.

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Supports Workers by Restoring 1:1 Apprenticeship Ratio

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 22, 2024

    Manitoba Government Supports Workers by Restoring 1:1 Apprenticeship Ratio

    – – –
    Changes Promote Safety and Support Quality Hands-On Education: Moses

    Regulatory changes that restore the 1:1 apprentice-to-journeyperson ratio and modernize training programs will come into effect Oct. 30, Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses announced today.

    “Restoring the 1:1 ratio supports safe and higher quality training for workers,” said Moses. “All Manitobans deserve to come home safely at the end of their workday.”

    Changes to the Apprenticeship and Certification General Regulation will also ensure apprentices receive high-quality supervision and appropriate supports throughout their training program, noted the minister.

    “Apprenticeship is the training program, Red Seal is the career,” said Tanya Palson, executive director, Manitoba Building Trades. “This change will help young Manitobans feel sure that when they enter the training program, they are supported to completion so that they can build their careers and support their families here at home.”

    The previous government removed the 1:1 ratio requirement, compromising the safety of Manitoba workers, the minister said, adding that the 1:1 ratio was established in response to the 1999 death of Michael Skanderberg, who was killed on the job while working unsupervised.

    “I applaud the Manitoba government for restoring the 1:1 apprentice-to-journeyperson ratio,” said Cindy Skanderberg, mother of Michael Skanderberg. “Every day I will fight to keep Manitoba workers safe. This will save lives.”

    Other regulatory changes will modernize the apprenticeship system to reduce administrative burdens and improve Manitoba’s competitiveness with other Canadian jurisdictions, noted the minister.

    “IBEW 2085 strongly opposed the 2:1 ratio because for someone training to be an electrician, proper supervision can be a matter of life and death,” said Dave McPhail, business manager, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) 2085. “Restoring the ratio to 1:1 means that this government is serious about building Manitoba with highly skilled, properly trained Red Seals.”

    The minister noted existing apprenticeship agreements can continue if:

    • employers have been permitted to have journeypersons supervise more than one apprentice;
    • apprentices actively demonstrate continued progress in their apprenticeship program under pre-existing employment agreements; and
    • journeypersons do not take on additional apprentices.

    This is the first step in the Manitoba government’s improvement of the apprenticeship program, creating good jobs for Manitobans and reaching its commitment of creating 10,000 skilled labour jobs, noted the minister. The government is also fulfilling its commitment to do a review of the operations of Apprenticeship Manitoba to look for efficiencies and modernization. That work is ongoing and stakeholder consultation will begin next month, the minister added.

    “A modernized and responsive apprenticeship training and certification system is good for workers, grows industry and moves our province forward,” said Moses. “These changes will ensure Manitoba continues to provide an attractive market to meet the growing demands for skilled labour of the future.”

    For more information on Manitoba’s apprenticeship and certification system and recent regulatory updates, visit http://www.gov.mb.ca/aesi/apprenticeship/index.html.

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Canada announces creation of external advisory panel on the creation and dissemination of scientific information in French

    Source: Government of Canada News

    The Government of Canada is investing $8.5 million over five years to support French-language research in Canada

    GATINEAU, October 22, 2024

    Canadians value French and scientific research. We also value our post-secondary education system and research in French in Canada. For many years, French-speaking researchers have had to contend with several major obstacles: the fragility of Francophone research infrastructure, the lack of appropriate resources and the predominance of English in the dissemination of scientific knowledge. That is why the Government of Canada is committed to improving conditions for the production and dissemination of scientific research in French in Canada.

    Today, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, announced an investment of $8.5 million over five years to support and strengthen Canada’s French-language research ecosystem. This investment aims to respond to the pressing challenges facing French-speaking researchers by offering them better support for the production, discoverability and dissemination of their work in French.

    To support this effort, an external advisory group on the creation and dissemination of scientific information in French will be established. This group will provide advice and recommendations to Minister Boissonnault and develop a federal strategy to ensure the long-term viability of Canada’s French-language research ecosystem.

    The advisory panel’s mandate will be to analyze the current dynamics of the creation and dissemination of scientific knowledge in French in Canada. It will also propose actions that account for the dynamics of official language minority communities and Quebec.

    The panel is made up of experts and specialists from across Canada who will share their knowledge and experience in a variety of fields. They are:

    • Anne Leis, Professor, University of Saskatchewan
    • Danielle de Moissac, Professor, Université de Saint-Boniface
    • Gary W. Slater, Professor, University of Ottawa
    • Linda Cardinal, Professor and Associate Vice-President of Research, Université de l’Ontario français
    • Mamadou Fall, Distinguished University Professor and Director, University of Ottawa
    • Valérie Lapointe-Gagnon, Associate Professor, Faculté Saint-Jean, University of Alberta
    • Vincent Larivière, Professor, Université de Montréal
    • Michelle Landry, Associate Professor, Université de Moncton
    • Rémy Léger, Professor, Simon Fraser University
    • Patrick Poirier, Executive Director Les Presses, Université de Montréal

    The Government of Canada’s investment is part of its broader commitment to promoting official languages and supporting Francophone communities across the country, while contributing to an inclusive and diverse research environment.

    The government’s investment was made through the Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration, unveiled April 26, 2023. It allows the Government of Canada to support measures focused on Francophone immigration, economic development, education, justice, health, arts and culture.

    John Fragos
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages
    john.fragos@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Maryland Delegation Announces $48.7 Million for Maryland-Based Non-Profits to Expand Workforce Development Opportunities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (2nd District of Maryland)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressmen Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Jamie Raskin and David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced $48,722,721 in Department of Labor (DOL) funding to bolster workforce development opportunities for underrepresented groups in Maryland and across the country including older adults, young adults with disabilities and women.

    The funding is administered through three DOL grant programs.

    • Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) grants provide training and career services to low-income older individuals who are seeking to enter or re-enter the workforce.
    • Workforce Pathways for Youth(WPY) grants help out-of-school time organizations partner with state and local organizations that serve historically marginalized and underserved youth to provide workforce readiness programming.
    • Womenin Apprenticeship and Nontraditional Occupations(WANTO) grants provide technical assistance to support women’s participation in fields where they are traditionally underrepresented, such as construction, advanced manufacturing, energy, technology and transportation.

    “Supporting pathways to competitive, good-paying jobs through opportunities like apprenticeships and other training initiatives helps ensure everyone can contribute to a thriving economy,” said the lawmakers. “These workforce development programs provide inclusive training options that can serve as a bridge between skilled workers and career opportunities. We’re investing in these efforts led by Maryland-based organizations so that workers here and across the country can reach their full potential and employers can tap into a diverse pipeline of talent.”

    The following projects received awards: 

    • $30,071,551 for the Center for Workforce Inclusion, Inc., Silver Spring, MD: Toprovide training for low-income, unemployed people aged 55 and older in a variety of community service activities at non-profit and public agencies, including schools, hospitals, day-care centers, senior centers in Maryland and service areas across 11 other states: Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.
    • $14,640,900 for Goodwill Industries International, Inc., Rockville, MD: To provide training and employment services for older workers in service areas across 10 states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, Virginia and Washington.
    • $3,294,240 for Bridges from School to Work, Inc., Bethesda, MD: Toexpand workforce development services for youth with disabilities aged 16 to 21 across 10 Bridge cities: Los Angeles, CA; Oakland, CA; San Francisco, CA; Atlanta, GA; Chicago, IL; Boston, MA; New York City, NY; Philadelphia, PA; Dallas, TX; and Fort Worth, TX.
    • $716,030 for the Maryland Center for Construction Education and Innovation, Parkton, MD: To use the state’s existing infrastructure to expand women’s participation in quality registered apprenticeship programs through equity-focused, pre-apprenticeship programs with a focus on the two regions with the highest rates of child poverty: Baltimore City and Somerset County. 

    “The funding we’re announcing today advances the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of promoting worker-focused training programs that incorporate industry and worker voices,” said Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su. “The grants will help enhance access to quality jobs for care workers and people in critical sectors, broaden job training and career opportunities for youth and strengthen public-private partnerships that prepare workers for high-quality infrastructure jobs.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: $21.6m Grant to Fund Bluebike Expansion, New Transit Shuttles, Other Congestion Relief Solutions in Metro Boston

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Katherine Clark (5th District of Massachusetts)

    MAPC will work with the Healey-Driscoll Administration, Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, & other Greater Boston communities on regional effort to reduce traffic thanks to new federal award announced this week 

    BOSTON, MA — A major new federal grant designed to help relieve congestion across Greater Boston will fund scores of new Bluebikes stations and add several new shuttle routes to supplement MBTA service throughout the city, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) announced this week.

    The $21.6 million Congestion Relief Grant from the Federal Highway Administration, one of seven awards issued throughout the country, will fund research into ways of reducing driving and encouraging transit use and will help launch a new mobile app that will allow transit riders to book trips across the system in one place. 

    The new shuttle network will expand public transit in key Boston neighborhoods, including the Seaport, Charlestown, and Allston-Brighton. The Bluebikes expansion will add nearly 400 new bikes to the system, a quarter of them electric bikes (e-bikes), as well as new stations throughout the system. Approximately half of the new stations will be electrified, allowing e-bikes to recharge while docked, extending their range and reducing their dependency on manual battery swapping. Some existing stations will also be relocated from on-street to off-street sites to enable them to operate year-round.

    The first phase of the work will be to plan specific station locations in existing Bluebikes communities, which includes Arlington, Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Medford, Newton, Revere, Somerville, Watertown and Salem. 

    “Democrats are on a mission to deliver easier rides for commuters and a more sustainable future for our kids. With this critical funding, we are taking another step forward,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. “I am grateful for the Biden-Harris Administration’s leadership in improving America’s green infrastructure and better connecting our communities. I am proud to have partnered with them to bring home this win and will continue working to reduce congestion and expand public transit options for all residents.” 

    “Greater Boston is getting greater bikes,” said Senator Edward J. Markey. “I am proud to have led our Congressional delegation in advocating for this $21.6 million for MAPC to expand the Bluebikes network and fill transit gaps in the region, especially for communities that are currently underserved. This federal funding will advance transit equity and reduce carbon emissions by giving more people the option to get to work, school, medical appointments, and other important services without relying on a car.” 

    “This $21 million in federal funds will improve our bike infrastructure and fill transit gaps so that Greater Boston has better, cleaner, and safer ways to get around,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren. “I’ve long worked for more federal investment in our transit here in Massachusetts, and I was glad to partner with federal, state, and local partners to bring this grant home to MAPC.” 

    “Bikeshare makes for better commutes and more walkable neighborhoods. I’ll continue working with partners to promote cycling, walking and transit to support vibrant downtowns,” said Congressman Jake Auchincloss. 

    “To unlock a greener, healthier, and more efficient transit future for the Commonwealth, we have to make smart investments targeted at reducing congestion on our roads. That means giving people better options than driving — from taking the train to biking,” said Congressman Seth Moulton. “This $21 million grant will help us make progress toward this goal by giving more people access to bikes than ever before. I’m grateful for the partnership of my colleagues in the federal delegation and to MAPC for their advocacy as we build a transit system that serves everyone.” 

    “This new federal investment, which I am proud to have advocated for, will help make our Commonwealth more connected, give commuters more options to access jobs, groceries, and essential services.” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Co-Chair of the Congressional Bike Caucus. “With this new funding, we’ll be moving closer to a just, equitable, and sustainable transit system that our communities deserve. I’m grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration for this intersectional investment and I’ll continue working to invest in public transit as the public good that it is.” 

    “Easing traffic congestion is only possible if we offer accessible alternatives to cars, and this funding makes it possible for us to do so,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. “I want to thank our partners at MAPC for all they have done to advance this project and make our roads better for all residents.” 

    “The Congestion Relief Program funding is a huge boost in helping to build the transportation system we have dreamed of, one that is seamless, gives people more travel options, and which launches technology to help people navigate as they take trips,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt. “The funding turns vision into reality, implementing steps to reduce pollution, decrease congestion, and support people who don’t have a car.” 

    “This grant will provide more options for people to get around without relying on a car and will make a dent in Boston’s status as one of the most congested cities,” said Eric Bourassa, Director of Transportation at MAPC, the regional planning agency for Greater Boston, which applied for the grant. “We are also excited to see these funds advance research and technology solutions that will improve non-auto travel options and encourage people to use other modes of transportation. 

    According to INRIX’s Global Traffic Scorecard, Boston area drivers lost 88 hours stuck in traffic in 2023. This grant is designed to create a menu of new projects to address that by easing the transition away from single-occupancy vehicles, and increasing the appeal of public transit and micro-mobility options. 

    For more information about MAPC’s transportation work throughout Greater Boston, visit mapc.org/transportation.

    # # # 

    MAPC’s grant application includes four initiatives: 

    Expand Public Transit 

    • Launch new fixed-route shuttles in three Boston neighborhoods: Allston-Brighton, Charlestown/Somerville, and the Seaport District 

    • Launch and operate on-demand micro-transit services in the Mattapan and Grove Hall neighborhoods of Boston. 

    Expanded Bluebikes throughout Greater Boston 

    • Purchase and install 90 e-bikes and 32 electrified stations 

    • Purchase and install 290 pedal bikes and 32 regular stations 

    • Redistribute non-electrified stations throughout system 

    • Cover operating costs for new stations and bikes for 3-4 years 

    • Move existing stations off-street so they can operate in all four seasons 

    New Trip Planning and Payment App 

    • Allow riders across Greater Boston to plan and pay for all trips in one mobile app, regardless of mode (train, bus, bike, shuttle) 

    Transit Incentives Study 

    Please be advised that the Massachusetts Secretary of State considers e-mail to be a public record, and therefore subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law, M.G.L. c. 66 § 10. 

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Announces Town Hall Next Week in Jackson County

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 18, 2024
    Oct. 24 town hall at Phoenix High School will be No. 1,101 in fulfilling the Senator’s pledge to hold at least one annual town hall in each of Oregon’s 36 counties
    Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he will hold an open-to-all town hall on Thursday, Oct. 24 in Jackson County.
    This 10 am town hall at Phoenix High School Rose Theater (745 N Rose St., Phoenix) will be Wyden’s second this year in Jackson County and 1,101st overall — honoring his promise to hold at least one town hall each year in each of our state’s 36 counties. 
    “Every year, in every county of Oregon, I invite Oregonians to have face-to-face conversations with me at my open-to-all town halls,” Wyden said. “I’m honored every time Oregonians show the entire country how to hold open-to-all meetings with direct conversations that make our communities and state even better places to live and work. I’m eager to hear from Jackson County again, and just as eager to continue this tradition of holding town halls all across Oregon. Coming together to work on common-ground and common-sense solutions is what I call the Oregon Way.”
    Doors will open 30 minutes before the town halls for attendees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads Groundbreaking for Casa de Peregrinos Facility in Chaparral, Commits to Strengthening Food Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    CHAPARRAL, N.M. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined community leaders for the groundbreaking ceremony of Casa de Peregrinos’ new facility in Chaparral to highlight the importance of addressing food insecurity, particularly in rural areas. 

    “I’ve always said that hungry children can’t learn, seniors can’t thrive and families can’t get ahead if they’re worried about their next meal. For nearly 40 years, Casa de Peregrinos has been a lifeline for families in our community, helping put food on the table,” said Vasquez. “Today, we’re taking another big step in that fight against food insecurity, ensuring that more families have access to the support they need here in Chaparral. As your Congressman, I’ve made it a priority to support legislation that strengthens food security and expands access to nutritious meals.”

    Vasquez commended Casa de Peregrinos for its ongoing work to address hunger and ensure that vulnerable populations, including schoolchildren, seniors and families in remote areas, have access to nutritious meals. The new facility in Chaparral represents a critical investment in the region’s efforts to combat food insecurity and ensure no family goes hungry.

    Vasquez also announced that he helped secure $300,000 in federal funding for Casa de Peregrinos to build a new food pantry in Hatch, which will extend food access to some of New Mexico’s most rural communities. He highlighted the ongoing need for federal programs like SNAP and WIC, noting that nearly one in four households in southern New Mexico relies on SNAP. He vowed to continue fighting for a Farm Bill that supports new farmers, families and healthy food as a member of the House Agriculture Committee.

    Vasquez also touted his work on initiatives such as the CSFP Tribal Nutrition Sovereignty Act, which empowers Tribal communities with greater control over their food programs, and the School Meals Expansion Act, which ensures more students receive free meals.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New affordable homes in Shelburne and Barton

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    The communities of Shelburne and Barton will have 13 new, energy efficient, homes after an investment of more than $5.1 million from the federal and provincial governments and Co-operative Homes Ltd. (Compass Nova Scotia).

    Halifax, Nova Scotia, October 18, 2024 — The communities of Shelburne and Barton will have 13 new, energy efficient, homes after an investment of more than $5.1 million from the federal and provincial governments and Co-operative Homes Ltd. (Compass Nova Scotia).

    Heritage Hall in Shelburne is a centrally located building that will be converted into five one- and two-bedroom apartments. Barton Elementary School is located on a large parcel of land near shops and services in Barton, and will be converted into eight one- and two-bedroom apartments.

    The conversion to make the two buildings more energy efficient will include heat pumps, heat recovery ventilators, and envelope improvements.

    Compass Nova Scotia is a not-for-profit housing co-operative that currently has 111 homes in 8 neighbourhoods across the province.

    Quotes

    “I am proud that we could support these two projects that will bring more affordable homes to Shelburne and Barton, here at home in Nova Scotia. We will keep working with partners across the country to build more homes and end the housing crisis.”

    The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

    “Our investments in energy efficient housing are an important part of our efforts to give Nova Scotians clean, reliable power at affordable prices. We have a focus to meeting our ambitious climate change targets, and this investment takes us one important step closer to those goals.”

    Nolan Young, MLA for Shelburne on behalf of Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables

    “Compass Nova Scotia Co-operative Homes is thrilled to again be growing with the Barton School and Heritage Hall projects. These new homes will reflect the mission of Compass to build inclusive and sustainable housing communities through collaboration. This important initiative for rural Nova Scotia could not have been possible without support from various partners and all levels of government, particularly to ensure these homes are built to a high energy standard.”

    Karen Brodeur, Director, Co-operative Housing Development, Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada

    “I am so pleased that we will soon be able to welcome new households to Compass Nova Scotia, because of these two projects. Being part of Compass Nova Scotia means having a secure, co-operative home in an inclusive community. Many individuals and families are looking for exactly this kind of housing. I am grateful for the support of the federal, provincial and municipal governments, who together are making this possible.”

    Keith MacDonald, President, Compass Nova Scotia Co-operative Homes Limited

    Quick facts

    • The federal government is investing $1,539,190 through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Nova Scotia is investing $2,498,707, and Compass Nova Scotia is contributing $1,091,552.

    • This stream helps build greener communities by contributing to climate change preparedness, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting renewable technologies.

    • Including today’s announcement, over 50 infrastructure projects under the Green Infrastructure Stream have been announced in Nova Scotia, with a total federal contribution of more than $330 million and a total provincial contribution of more than $434 million.

    • Under the Investing in Canada Plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.

    • The funding announced today builds on the federal government’s work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    For more information (media only), please contact:

    Sofia Ouslis
    Communications Advisor
    Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
    sofia.ouslis@infc.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
    613-960-9251
    Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
    Email: media-medias@infc.gc.ca
    Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
    Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

    Patricia Jreige
    Communications advisor
    Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables
    902-718-7866
    patricia.jreige@novascotia.ca

    Karen Brodeur
    Director, Co-operative Housing Development
    Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada (CHF Canada)
    613.230.2201 ext. 226
    kbrodeur@chfcanada.coop

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Announces $19.2 Million From Appalachian Regional Commission For 14 West Virginia Projects

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin
    October 18, 2024
    Charleston, WV – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $19,243,249 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for 14 projects in West Virginia. The funding will support economic and workforce development, outdoor recreation, and historical restoration across the state.  
    “The Appalachian Regional Commission’s continued commitment to revitalizing and strengthening Appalachia is good for West Virginia and the entire region. The more than $19 million announced today will bolster economic and workforce development, as well revitalize our outdoor recreation and historical landmarks,” said Senator Manchin. “I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of these projects and, as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I remain dedicated to boosting economic growth across Appalachia.”
    Individuals awards listed below:
    $2,000,000 – West Virginia Health Right, Charleston
    This funding will support the Helping Individuals Retain Employment Dignity (HIRED) Program.

    $1,990,600 – Fairmont State University, Fairmont
    This funding will support the Building Connections to Grow Capacity: Breaking Down Regional Barriers in the STEM Workforce Pipeline project.

    $1,982,460 – West Virginia Department of Economic Development, Charleston
    This funding will support the Childcare West Virginia: Building the Business That Supports Business project.

    $1,897,137 – Woodland Community Lenders, Elkins
    This funding aims to achieve long-term economic success for the 12 gateway towns in eight counties surrounding the Monongahela National Forest by advancing the local outdoor economy through technical assistance in the key areas of connectivity, communication, capital, and capacity.

    $1,839,750 – Wheeling Convention & Visitors Bureau, Wheeling
    This project will prepare and implement a visitor experience and engagement master plan for a newly built visitors center, complementing the city’s broader tourism and downtown redevelopment strategies.

    $1,750,000 – International Association of Bridge Structure and Ornamental Ironworkers Local 549, Wheeling
    This project will fund a 7,840-square-foot expansion of the apprenticeship training facility.

    $1,650,800 – Advantage Valley Inc, Charleston
    This funding will support creating a more resilient and diversified regional economy by increasing the market potential and growth of the existing manufacturing and business services sectors.

    $1,385,205 – Coalfield Development Corporation, Huntington
    This funding will support establishing a food system workforce development program based on three areas of need: training/readiness and employability, transportation services, and housing for individuals in recovery.

    $1,260,000 – Partner Community Capital, Charles Town
    This funding will support expanding on PCAP’s successful WV Women’s Business Center.

    $1,232,256 – West Virginia University Research Corporation, Morgantown
    This funding will support expanding West Virginia’s outdoor economy through supporting and increasing capacity of local outdoor businesses, communities, and current and emerging non-profit organizations.

    $1,105,041 – Tamarack Foundation, Charleston
    This project will build critical infrastructure to address gaps in access to services, resources, capital, markets, and consumers for arts to foster entrepreneurial activities in all 55 counties of the state.

    $1,050,000 – West Virginia University Research Corporation, Morgantown
    This funding will support cybersecurity accessibility, implementation, and education through establishing a statewide hub for direct cybersecurity resources and support for businesses in West Virginia.

    $50,000 – Alpine Heritage Preservation, Thomas
    This funding will support completing the design, development, and construction documents for the full restoration of the historic opera house.

    $50,000 – City of New Martinsville
    This funding will support the Northern Panhandle Clean Energy Futures Workforce Needs Assessment project.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Meet New Director of Judaic Studies, Jessica Cooperman

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    You’re new to UConn. What made you decide to come here?

    I know the previous director, Avinoam Patt, quite well, and it was a big draw that I’ve spoken to him throughout the years and he always raved about UConn. So that made it an appealing position to consider. After years of teaching at a small liberal arts college, I was also drawn to the new challenges and opportunities of working at a large research university.  

    What do you teach and what do you like to teach?

    I teach broadly in the field of Jewish history, and I especially enjoy teaching American Jewish history and American Judaism. In those courses, I try to weave in my own research and interests when possible, which makes it fun. 

     Some Jewish students may take my class thinking, “Oh, this will be familiar to me, right?” But it’s an opportunity for me to show them that there’s much more to learn.   

    Learning about Jewish history introduces students to all kinds of broader debates about migration, race, religion, cultural production, state structures, prejudices, minority rights, and civil rights—topics they might not have thought about in connection to Jewish history. Judaic Studies creates opportunities to learn about Jews and Judaism, but it also leads students to lots of other issues, which we can explore together. I find that really exciting. 

    Could tell us about your research?

    My field is broadly defined as modern Jewish history, but my research is on American Jewish history and American Judaism.  

    My first book focused on soldiers’ services in the First World War. The American military wanted to create a more well-behaved force, to keep soldiers in line, engaged, and out of trouble. The military came up with the idea that soldiers needed to participate in morally uplifting activities—like singing, sports, and educational classes—to be good citizens and good soldiers.  So, they hired the YMCA to provide those services.  

    Instead of protesting about the Protestant YMCA getting this role, the Jewish Welfare Board, a Jewish organization, and the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal organization, volunteered to be counterparts to the YMCA. In the book, I argue that they ended up changing the government’s conception of religion and the roles of Judaism and Catholicism within these government programs. By the end of World War I, the government perhaps didn’t celebrate, but at least clearly advertised in their propaganda, the partnership among Protestants, Catholics, and Jews in the service of the country.   

    My current research project focuses on the history of Passover in the United States. I’m interested in exploring how both Jewish and non-Jewish communities, particularly Christian ones, have adapted and adopted the holiday and its rituals to express various social, political, and cultural concerns throughout the 20th century.  

    I am also interested in in the history of Jewish-Christian relations in the United States, especially in 20th century projects intended to promote Jewish-Christian dialogue – that is the research project ahead.   

    What are some themes in your field right now?

    I am one of the co-editors of the journal American Jewish History, so I get to read a lot of the newest scholarship in my field. Some of our recent issues have included articles about Sephardic and Mizrachi history in the Americas, Jewish farm collectives, policies on immigration and disability, 19th century religious school curricula, transnational trends in Jewish liturgical music, and Emma Goldman’s love of opera. Because Judaic Studies is an inherently interdisciplinary field, there are always many directions of research – and that is just in the field of American Jewish history. Judaic Studies also includes scholars who study everything from Biblical literature and the ancient world to medieval Jewish mysticism, gender studies, Holocaust studies, Israel studies, contemporary Judaism – and absolutely everything in between. I am not sure that there is any one topic that drives the entire field, but that diversity is part of what makes it dynamic and exciting. 

    Why do you think it’s important for large universities to have a center that focuses on Jews and Judaism?

    I think that higher education has an obligation to serve the public good, and I believe that is particularly true at a public institution. It was part of what drew me to UConn—there is an explicit responsibility to not just teach in an “ivory tower” or a removed academic setting, but to think about how what we teach can be shared with, useful to, and interesting to the public at large.  

    While students are perhaps the first audience we’re speaking to, I think it’s important to consider how a public institution of higher education can serve the public. The Judaic Studies Program and Center for Judaic Studies and Contemporary Jewish Life can offer classes, events, programs, and research projects that help to meet that responsibility.   

    I think people want educational and intellectual opportunities. They want to learn new things and to be introduced to new ideas. And at this moment of ongoing violence in Israel and in Gaza, and growing concern about antisemitism in the United States and around the world, learning about Judaism, Jewish culture, and Jewish history feels particularly relevant.   

    What do students who aren’t majoring in Judaic Studies get from your classes?

    Jews can serve as a lens through which we examine larger social structures and institutions, and you never quite know where that journey will take you. If someone takes a class on Jewish history—like my class on American Jewish history—and they love it and decide to focus on Judaic Studies, that’s fantastic. I very much want to expand the major in and minor in Judaic Studies at UConn. But if students take a class with me and then go on to explore questions about immigration in the United States, or the forces that lead people to migrate from place to place, or any number of other issues that they might encounter in one of my classes then that’s also great.    

    In the humanities, our ultimate object of study is humans and human societies.  So, if my classes can provide both a window into a particular set of human experiences and tools to help students think critically and analytically about the varieties of human experience, and about the different ways that people have made sense of the world and organized their societies over time, then that’s fantastic. 

    Are there any misconceptions about your field?

    The biggest misconception I’ve encountered is that Judaic Studies is only for Jewish students. I’m always happy when someone comes to one of my classes because they have a personal connection to the topic and want to explore it. But just as there’s no expectation that you must be Russian in order to be interested in Russian literature or history, just as an example, you certainly don’t have to be Jewish to be interested Judaism and Judaic Studies.   

    You can want to study something simply because you’re curious. It’s great if you find a personal connection that draws you to a class, but sometimes that connection can be purely intellectual.  Intellectual curiosity is enough—the classes are for anyone who’s interested. 

    In your time here so far, what’s your favorite spot on campus?

    I don’t have a favorite spot yet, but I love how beautiful the campus is, and I am really enjoying watching the fall leaves change color. I have come to bond with the Dodd Center, which is where the Center for Judaic Studies is located. Students and faculty are welcome to come in and say hi!  

    This Q&A is part of CLAS Visionary Voices, a series highlighting the College’s new academic leaders and their innovative visions for education, research, and outreach at UConn.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Join EPA in Celebrating $31 Million for NH School Districts to Upgrade to Clean School Buses, Bringing Healthier Air to NH Children and Families

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today, during Children’s Health Month, Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) joinedSenator Maggie Hassan (NH),U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash, and the Derry Cooperative School District to celebrate $31 million in funding for 110 new clean school buses across nine school districts in New Hampshire. This funding is from the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program, which was made possible by the bipartisan infrastructure law, and includes $8.6 million in rebate funding for Derry to purchase 25 zero-emission buses.

    “Clean school buses safeguard the well-being of New Hampshire children, save taxpayer dollars, help keep our air and environment clean, and make a big difference in the long-term health of our communities,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “The EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created by the bipartisan infrastructure law and is providing New Hampshire school districts with resources to upgrade their bus fleet to cleaner, safer vehicles, including rebate funding for Derry to purchase 25 zero-emission buses. This is an important step in the right direction for our children, taxpayers, and communities.”

    “Replacing older diesel buses makes a big difference for kids’ health and air quality in our communities. That’s why I’m so glad New Hampshire is receiving more than $33 million for 11 school districts to supply 117 new, zero-emission electric school buses. I couldn’t be prouder to help deliver this lasting investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in the future of New Hampshire communities,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen.

    Today’s event showcased Derry’s new clean energy school buses, which will address climate change, improve public health, and lower costs for New Hampshire schools,” said Senator Maggie Hassan. “I worked with my colleagues to negotiate and pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to help make smart investments like this possible, and I will continue to work to support New Hampshire’s clean energy economy and lower costs.”

    “When I was a kid, I remember the acrid smell of the stinky diesel school bus that picked me up at my bus stop. No kid, no matter where they live, should have to breathe in the unhealthy exhaust from a diesel bus,” said EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “EPA’s Clean School Bus Program is making it easier for kids to breathe better, cleaner air on the way to and from school. With October being Children’s Health Month, this is a great opportunity to continue amplifying the relationship between cleaner environments and the well-being of our communities, particularly our children. By transforming our nation’s diesel school bus fleet, we’re not only protecting our students, but saving school districts money, improving air quality, and uplifting American innovation and manufacturing.”  

    “We are thrilled to be part of this initiative and grateful for the support of the EPA in helping us transition to clean energy. These new buses represent our commitment to reducing our environmental impact while ensuring safe, reliable transportation for our students. This grant allows us to take a significant step toward a greener future for our community and the next generation,” said Derry Cooperative School District Transportation Coordinator, Dr. Clifton Dancy.  

    “At First Student, our top priority is ensuring each student we transport to and from school arrives ready to learn and returns home safely. Students across the state will soon have cleaner, quieter rides thanks to this funding, which will deliver 25 new electric school buses,” said Kevin Matthews, head of electrification for First Student. “As the company with the most electric school buses on the road today, we are pleased to work with the EPA and school officials in Derry to get these electric school buses in service. Reducing exposure to harmful tailpipe pollution will improve student health and better position them to succeed in school.”  

    EPA’s Clean School Bus Program was created by the bipartisan infrastructure law, which Congressman Pappas and the New Hampshire Congressional delegation supported and provides an unprecedented $5 billion in funding to transform the nation’s fleet of school buses. The Clean School Bus Program is a key player in advancing the transition to zero-emission vehicles and replacing older diesel-fueled buses that contribute to asthma and other respiratory conditions, particularly affecting children in overburdened communities. These new electric buses will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also enhance the air quality for students, bus drivers, and nearby communities, leading to healthier outcomes for children and Granite Staters. Over the lifespan of the vehicles, clean school buses can also cost less to maintain and fuel than the older buses they are replacing – freeing up needed resources for schools and saving taxpayer dollars. For more information click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Multistate Amicus Brief Protecting Access to Mifepristone

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 18 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief in Bryant v. Stein to protect mifepristone access in the state of North Carolina. In the brief, filed in United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, the attorneys general strongly urge the Court to uphold the District Court’s determination that North Carolina cannot impose restrictions on mifepristone access that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has explicitly determined are unnecessary to ensure patient safety. 

    “For decades, medication abortion has been recognized not only as effective, but so safe that it presents lower risks of serious complications than taking Tylenol or getting a colonoscopy,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Restricting its availability not only undermines the rights of individuals but also creates unnecessary barriers to essential healthcare. That’s why, I, alongside attorneys general nationwide are urging the Court to protect access to mifepristone for North Carolinians.”

    Mifepristone is a safe and effective medication prescribed to patients who need critical, time-sensitive reproductive care, including for abortions and the treatment of miscarriages. Studies show that medication abortion allows people to get reproductive care as early as possible when it is safest, least expensive, and least invasive. It plays an important role in reducing barriers and promoting equitable access to healthcare, particularly for those who live in rural and underserved communities. 

    In 2023, North Carolina revised its laws governing pregnancy termination by implementing several archaic restrictions around the use and distribution of mifepristone. These restrictions included physician-only prescribing; in-person prescribing, dispensing, and administering; the scheduling of in-person follow-up appointments; and non-fatal adverse event reporting to the FDA. 

    Ultimately, a North Carolina federal district court judge ruled that while the State may impose certain restrictions on abortion care, it cannot override the FDA’s determination to remove these specific restrictions on mifepristone. The coalition’s amicus brief defends the District Court’s decision as striking the proper balance between state authority and FDA regulation. 

    In the brief, the attorneys general argue that mifepristone has been safely used as an integral part of reproductive healthcare for decades since its initial approval by the FDA, and over that period, the FDA has carefully balanced patient safety and access to the drug by removing certain restrictions on mifepristone distribution. Therefore, they argue that North Carolina’s restrictions on mifepristone, which re-instate the same restrictions that the FDA has explicitly considered and removed, create unnecessary burdens to reproductive healthcare. 

    Attorney General Bonta joined the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. 

    A copy of the brief can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Artivism in Peacekeeping: Harnessing Creativity for Global Change

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    As conflicts rise worldwide, over 2 billion people—one-quarter of humanity—live in conflict-affected areas. With peace increasingly under threat, the United Nations’ peacekeeping operations continue to play a critical role in promoting stability in some of the world’s most challenging environments. However, as peacekeeping faces unprecedented challenges, a new and powerful tool is being leveraged: artivism. By merging art and activism, artivism has emerged as an innovative way to inspire social change, raise awareness, and engage global communities in peacebuilding.

     

    Artivism—where art meets activism—is the use of artistic expression to promote social or political causes. Whether through murals, street art, or public installations, artivists highlight critical issues such as human rights, justice, and peace. In the context of UN peacekeeping, artivism has become an essential part of global peace campaigns, turning abstract concepts like peace and security into tangible, relatable experiences. On 25 October, International Artist Day 2024 will provide an opportunity to honor those who use art as a tool for fighting for peace, further solidifying the connection between creativity and social change.

    Artivism has transformed peacekeeping efforts, humanizing its work and reaching a broader audience. By tapping into the emotional power of art, peacekeeping operations engage communities and individuals in ways that traditional methods cannot. This form of activism allows UN Peacekeeping to connect with the public, creating solidarity and fostering participation in the global peace movement.

    One notable example is the 2024 International Day of Peace, which showcased artivism at the heart of UN Peacekeeping’s activities. On this day, the UN Department of Peace Operations collaborated with renowned street artist Detour to create a live painting at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The event, curated by Street Art for Mankind, encouraged attendees to contribute their own messages of peace on a second canvas, fostering a collaborative and participatory experience. This combination of creativity and community engagement underscored the power of artivism to inspire collective action.

    High-profile figures, including Danish actor and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, American actress Kat Graham, and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, joined the event, amplifying its message. UN officials, including Under-Secretaries-General Melissa Fleming and Rosemary DiCarlo, also attended, highlighting the importance of art as a tool for promoting global peace.

    Beyond New York, peacekeeping missions around the world also embraced the power of artivism. In places like Kosovo (UNMIK), Cyprus (UNFICYP), the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) (in French), local artists and peacekeepers collaborated to create murals addressing region-specific issues such as youth engagement, misinformation, and gender-based violence.

    More importantly, the installations serve as powerful reminders of the global effort needed to build and sustain peace.

    Artivism goes beyond simply creating aesthetically pleasing works of art. It aims to inspire action and mobilize communities around critical social and political issues. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Social Movement Studies found that artivism is more effective than traditional forms of activism in engaging audiences and raising awareness. Art-driven activism, according to the study, is more memorable and has a greater impact on people’s willingness to act on the issues it highlights.

     

    For UN Peacekeeping, the success of artivism is already visible. The 2024 International Day of Peace promoted unity and collective action through creative expression.

    Audrey and Thibault Decker, co-founders of Street Art for Mankind, emphasized the universal impact of art, noting, “Art is a universal language. It speaks to the heart and moves humankind in a way nobody can explain, but everybody can experience. Art is essential to the creation of a peaceful world.”

    As conflicts become more complex, artivism offers an accessible and powerful means of fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and promoting peace. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating, “As world leaders […] forge a new international consensus on how we deliver a better present and safeguard the future, it’s important that the communities we serve remain at the center of all our efforts.”

    Looking forward, UN Peacekeeping will continue to embrace innovative ways to engage communities, raise awareness, and build a more peaceful world. By involving local communities, artists, and peacekeepers in these creative efforts, the message of peace becomes more than just a goal—it becomes a shared vision that people across the globe can actively participate in.

    In embracing artivism, UN Peacekeeping demonstrates that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of creativity, solidarity, and shared purpose. Through continued art-driven activism, peacekeeping will remain a vital force in the global movement toward a more peaceful and just future.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Applauds Student Debt Cancellation for 60,000 Additional Public Service Workers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Biden-Harris Admin. Has Now Cancelled Debt for Over 1 Million Public Service Workers, Including Over 22,000 in Massachusetts

    Under Project 2025, Public Service Loan Forgiveness Would Be Eliminated, Forcing 3.6M Workers to Pay $250B in Additional Debt

    BOSTON – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s approval of approximately $4.5 billion in additional student debt cancellation for approximately 60,000 workers nationwide who work in public service. This relief, which is the result of significant fixes that the Administration has made to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, brings the total loan forgiveness approved by the Administration to over $175 billion for more than 4.8 million Americans, which includes more than $73 billion for over one million borrowers through PSLF, including over 22,000 public service workers in Massachusetts.

    “Thanks to the improvements President Biden, Vice President Harris and Secretary Cardona have made to PSLF, over one million public service workers—including educators, nurses, first-responders, and more—have now received the life-changing and life-saving student debt relief they deserve,” said Congresswoman Pressley in a statement. “This program is an essential one that benefits not only borrowers but our communities writ large but helping to keep skilled and dedicated professionals in public service and recognizing our commitment to economic justice and educational opportunity. With Project 2025 threatening to eliminate PSLF and saddle borrowers in Massachusetts and across the country with billions in additional student loan debt, I’ll keep pushing to prevent that agenda from becoming reality and continue working to deliver this transformative relief to as many borrowers as possible.”

    More information on the Biden-Harris’ announcement is available here.

    Earlier this month, Rep. Pressley, co-founder of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force, joined the Student Borrower Protection Center (SBPC) and President of the American Federation of Teachers Randi Weingarten to unveil a groundbreaking state-by-state analysis quantifying the harm that Project 2025’s elimination of the PSLF would wreak on millions of workers. Under Project 2025, 3.6 million public service workers, including 78,000 in Massachusetts, would be forced to pay an additional $250 billion in student loan debt over the next decade.

    Rep. Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress urging President Biden to cancel student debt. Following years of advocacy by Rep. Pressley—in partnership with colleagues, borrowers, and advocates—the Biden-Harris Administration announced a historic plan to cancel student debt that stands to benefit over 40 million people. She has consistently helped borrowers access student debt cancellation resources, including PSLF, and she was proud to welcome a union educator and PSLF recipient as her guest to President Biden’s State of the Union Address in March.

    As a member of the House Oversight Committee, Rep. Pressley has repeatedly sounded the alarm on Project 2025, a bucket list extremist policies that would uproot every government agency and disrupt the lives of every person who calls America home.

    • On October 2, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined borrowers and advocates to unveil new state-by-state data quantifying the harm that Project 2025 would have on millions of public service workers nationwide.
    • On September 10, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Senator Warren and Rep. Jim Clyburn in urging the U.S. Department of Education to consider terminating its contract with student loan servicer MOHELA.
    • On August 29, Rep. Pressley issued a statement following the Supreme Court’s refusal to reinstate President Biden’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) student debt relief program.
    • On August 9, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Senator Warren, Representative Dean, and their colleagues urging student loan servicer Navient to reform its flawed process to cancel the private student loans of borrowers who attended fraudulent, for-profit colleges.
    • On June 25, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on federal judges in Missouri and Kansas siding with Republican states to block portions of President Biden’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) student debt relief program. 
    • On June 25, 2024, Rep. Pressley colleagues, borrowers, and advocates urged the Biden Administration to terminate the contract of federal student loan servicer MOHELA. Their calls follow MOHELA’s repeated failure to perform basic loan servicing functions and ongoing harm caused by MOHELA to student loan borrowers.
    • On May 20, 2024, Rep. Pressley, along with Reps. Omar, Clyburn and Wilson, led their colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Education to ensure its proposed student debt relief rule is implemented in the most effective and efficient manner possible for millions of borrowers.
    • On May 1, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Biden Administration’s approval of student loan discharge for 317,000 borrowers who attended The Art Institutes, including over 3,500 borrowers in Massachusetts.
    • On April 14, 2024, Rep. Pressley applauded President Biden’s approval of an additional $7.4 billion in student debt cancellation for 277,000 borrowers.
    • On April 8, 2024, Rep. Pressley hailed President Biden’s announcement of new plans to provide student debt relief for tens of millions of borrowers across the country.
    • On March 21, 2024, Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s approval of $5.8 billion in additional student loan debt cancellation for 77,700 public service workers.
    • On March 20, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren led their colleagues in calling on federal agencies to end the practice of offsetting Social Security benefits to pay off defaulted student loans.
    • On March 7, 2024, Rep. Pressley welcomed Priscilla Higuera Valentine, a first generation American, a proud union educator with Boston Public Schools and the Boston Teachers Union, and the daughter of a Colombian immigrant, who has received over $117,000 in student debt relief under the Biden-Harris Administration’s improved Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program, as her guest to President Biden’s State of the Union Address.
    • On February 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s approval of $1.2 billion in student debt cancellation for nearly 153,000 borrowers nationwide, including $19.5 million in cancellation for 2,490 Massachusetts borrowers.
    • On January 26, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) led their colleagues in calling on the Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to host a fourth session of the student debt negotiated rulemaking to consider relief for borrowers experiencing financial hardship. She applauded ED’s announcement that it would heed their calls.
    • On December 11, 2023, Rep. Pressley testified at the U.S. Department of Education’s final hearing on student debt cancellation.
    • On December 11, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Representatives Ilhan Omar (MN-05) and Frederica Wilson (FL-24), sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, urging him to leverage his existing and full authority under the Higher Education Act to provide expanded student debt relief to working and middle-class borrowers. 
    • On November 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley emphasized the crucial role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in protecting student loan borrowers from incompetent and predatory student loan servicers.
    • On November 6, 2023, Rep. Pressley joined Attorney General Andrea Campbell, Mayor Michelle Wu, and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) for a clinic to help federal student loan borrowers access a temporary opportunity to get closer to Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). 
    • On September 25, 2023, Rep. Pressley hosted a policy discussion with borrowers and advocates at which they renewed their urgent call for student debt cancellation with loan payments set to resume on October 1, 2023.
    • On August 23, 2023, Rep. Pressley, Sen. Warren, and their colleagues led over 80 lawmakers in a letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to swiftly deliver on his promise to deliver student debt cancellation to working and middle class families by early 2024. 
    • On August 22, 2023 Rep. Pressley applauded Governor Maura Healey’s plan to provide student debt relief for health care workers in Massachusetts. 
    • On June 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley responded to the President’s alternative proposal to deliver relief under the Higher Education Act and called for swift and efficient implementation.
    • On June 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming the Supreme Court’s decision to block President Biden’s student debt cancellation plan and calling on the President to use other tools available to swiftly cancel student debt.
    • On May 30, 2023, Rep. Pressley filed an amendment to H.R. 3746, legislation to raise the debt ceiling, to protect student loan borrowers and preserve the Biden Administration’s pause on federal student loan payments.
    • On May 24, 2023, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Republicans’ harmful effort to overturn President Biden’s student debt relief, including his debt cancellation plan, the pause on student loan payments, and the expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
    • On May 24, 2023, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful speech in support of President Biden’s plan to cancel student debt, which would benefit millions of people across the country.
    • On April 5, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote to the CEO of SoFi Technologies and SoFi Lending Corp calling on the company to answer for its lawsuits attempting to end the student loan payment pause and force borrowers back into repayment.
    • On March 7, 2023, Rep. Pressley, along with Sens. Warren, Schumer, Sanders, Padilla and Reps. Clyburn, Omar and Wilson led a letter to the Biden Administration expressing continued support for President Biden’s student debt relief plan.
    • On February 28, 2023, Rep. Pressley rallied with borrowers and advocates outside the Supreme Court to call on the Supreme Court to affirm the legality of President Biden’s student debt cancellation plan.
    • On November 22, 2022, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the extension of the student loan payment pause.
    • On October 25, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Senator Warren toured communities across Massachusetts to celebrate the Biden administration’s student debt cancellation plan and help residents sign up for student loan relief.
    • On October 12, 2022, Rep. Pressley joined parent borrowers and advocates for a discussion on the impacts of student debt cancellation on parents and families.
    • On September 29, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Reps. Omar, Jones and advocates, held a press conference to call for swift and equitable implementation of President Biden’s student debt cancellation plan.
    • On September 21, 2022, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful speech on the House floor in which she heralded President Biden’s action to cancel student debt for millions of families in the Massachusetts 7th and across the nation. Watch the full video here.
    • On September 12, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Senator Warren wrote to the nine federal student loan servicers to inquire about how they are providing borrowers with accurate and timely information about student loan cancellation.
    • On August 24, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley issued a statement applauding President Biden’s action to cancel student debt.
    • On August 10, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley and Senator Warren Massachusetts joined Massachusetts union leaders in Dorchester for a roundtable discussion on student debt cancellation.
    • On July 18, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley delivered remarks at the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) national convention and renewed her calls for President Biden to cancel student debt by executive action.
    • On July 8, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley with The Debt Collective hosted a virtual roundtable with student debt holders from all walks of life to highlight the intersectional burden the nearly $2 trillion student debt crisis has had on individuals and families. 
    • On June 22, 2022, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, with Senator Elizabeth Warren and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, joined AFL-CIO and union leaders for a roundtable discussion on the importance of student debt cancellation for American workers.
    • On May 20, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley applauded the Congressional Black Caucus’ (CBC) statement calling on President Biden to cancel student loan debt.
    • On May 4, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley visited Bunker Hill Community College to celebrate the $1 million in federal community project funding she secured and continued her calls for President Biden to cancel student debt.
    • On March 17, 2022, Congresswoman Pressley and Arisha Hatch, vice president and chief of campaigns at Color of Change, published an op-ed in Grio calling on President Biden to use his executive order authority to cancel up to $50,000 in student loan debt per borrower.
    • On December 8, 2021, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer sent a bicameral letter to President Joe Biden releasing new data about the adverse impact of restarting student loan payments and calling on him to act to cancel up to $50,000 of student debt.
    • On December 2, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley delivered remarks on the House floor in which she reiterated her calls for President Biden to cancel $50,000 in federal student loan debt by executive action.
    • On October 8, 2021, Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Ilhan Omar and their House colleagues sent a letter to President Biden and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona urging him to release the memo to determine the extent of the administration’s authority to broadly cancel student debt through administrative action.
    • On July 29, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley issued a statement reaffirming President Biden’s authority – and the urgency – to cancel student loan debt.
    • On June 23, 2021, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Senator Elizabeth Warren, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Congressman Joe Courtney led their colleagues on a bicameral letter to President Biden calling on him to extend the pause on federal student loan payments.
    • On April 13, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley testified at a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on Economic Policy hearing to examine the student loan debt crisis in our country.
    • On April 1, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley, along with Senator Elizabeth Warren and Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, held a press conference calling on President Biden to tackle the student loan debt crisis.
    • On February 4, 2021, Congresswoman Pressley, along with several Democratic House and Senate leaders, led their colleagues in reintroducing a bicameral resolution outlining a bold plan for President Biden to tackle the student loan debt crisis. 
    • On December 17, 2020, Representatives Ayanna Pressley, Ilhan Omar, Maxine Waters, and Alma Adams introduced a resolution outlining a bold plan for President-elect Joe Biden to cancel up to $50,000 in Federal student loan debt for student loan borrowers.
    • On December 10, 2020, Congresswoman Pressley was in Yahoo Finance urging the Biden administration to cancel student debt, stressing the impact on Black borrowers.
    • On May 8, 2020, Representatives Ayanna Pressley, Alma Adams, and Ilhan Omar, led 28 of their colleagues and sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy calling for the universal, one-time, student debt cancellation of at least $30,000 per borrower in the next round of COVID-19 relief legislation.
    • On March 23, 2020, Representatives Ayanna Pressley and Ilhan Omar introduced the Student Debt Emergency Relief Act, legislation that provides immediate monthly payment relief for federal student loan borrowers.
    • On March 17, 2020, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren were on The Hill calling on congressional leadership to include student debt cancellation in the next coronavirus relief package.
    • On October 11, 2019, Congresswoman Pressley introduced legislation – the Ending Debt Collection Harassment Act – to protect consumers from abusive debt collection.
    • On July 17, 2019, Congresswomen Pressley introduced legislation – the Student Borrower Credit Improvement Act – to provide much needed support to private student loan borrowers with a pathway to financial stability by helping them improve their credit.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Problem Solvers Caucus Endorses the Dignity Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar’s (FL-27)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus in the House of Representatives announced its official endorsement of the Dignity Act (H.R. 3599), the groundbreaking immigration bill introduced by Reps. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), Veronica Escobar (D-TX), and several of their colleagues in 2023.

    The Problem Solvers Caucus is a group of more than 60 Members of Congress who are committed to advancing common-sense solutions to key issues facing the United States. Problem Solvers Caucus endorsements are often a critical threshold to pass before advancing major bipartisan legislation. The bill was brought forward for Caucus endorsement by Representatives Salazar and Hillary Scholten (D-MI), an original co-lead of the bill.

    “The United States desperately needs an immigration solution, and the Dignity Act is the best and most viable bill to secure our border and solve our nation’s immigration problems,” said Rep. María Elvira Salazar. “I am proud that the bipartisan Dignity Act received the endorsement of the Problem Solvers Caucus – a critical group of lawmakers in Congress who are willing to advance solutions that prioritize national security, practical reforms, and economic growth.”

    “For far too long, our immigration system has been a glaring failure, and Americans are suffering as a result,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. “The Dignity Act stands as a historic, bipartisan solution that decisively ends illegal immigration, secures our borders, and drives economic prosperity in the United States. I am proud the Problem Solvers Caucus has endorsed this critical bill and is garnering support from both sides of the aisle.”

    The bipartisan Dignity Act fully secures our border and fixes America’s immigration system once and for all. By sealing the border, pioneering the Dignity and Redemption programs for undocumented immigrants, investing in American workers, re-thinking high-skilled legal immigration, and overhauling the abused asylum system with new Humanitarian Centers at our ports of entry, the Dignity Act is Congress’ only serious bill to resolve the migrant crisis and build mutual consensus around immigration.

    “For years, I’ve been working to pass commonsense immigration reform that protects our borders and lives up to our values as a nation. I’m proud the Problem Solvers Caucus came together to endorse the bipartisan Dignity Act which will support American workers, stop cartels from exploiting migrant families, and finally end the uncertainty they face by establishing a clear path for success while also securing our border,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Josh Gottheimer.

    “As an attorney who has worked on all aspects of the immigration problem, including employment, helping asylum seekers, and enforcement at the DOJ, I have seen firsthand how our system is failing, and it is past time we take charge to fix what’s broken,” said Rep. Hillary Scholten. “The bipartisan Dignity Act aims to repair our immigration system and restore humanity and justice to our process. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the Problem Solvers Caucus for recognizing the power rehabilitating our immigration system will have on our nation.”

    Since introduction, the Dignity Act has gained significant support from both parties in Congress and secured major endorsements from prominent national and local advocacy groups. Leading experts and policy groups commend the legislation for addressing the many inefficiencies and backlogs afflicting the current immigration regime and creating the conditions necessary to grow our economy by trillions of dollars, one of the largest expansions of the economy in American history. The innovative legislation also eliminates labor shortages in the healthcare industry, and helps save Social Security and Medicare from insolvency. Critically, the Dignity Act implements the funding for personnel, infrastructure, and equipment required to secure our borders and keep American citizens safe, at no expense to the taxpayer.

    The Dignity Act has been covered extensively in the press. Read some of more than 100 articles written about the bill here, and learn more about the bill on Congresswoman Salazar’s website here. A non-exhaustive list of every endorsement the Dignity Act has received from federal legislators and organizations across the United States can be found below and their statements of support can be found here. Statements come from prominent stakeholders, including from immigration groups, businesses, the agricultural sector, the faith community, educators, economists, national security experts, community leaders, Ambassadors, and United States Senators.

    A detailed summary of the Dignity Act can also be found below.

    Sponsors and Cosponsors (38): *María Elvira Salazar (FL), *Veronica Escobar (TX), *Jenniffer González Colon (PR), *Hillary Scholten (MI), *Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR), *Kathy Manning (NC), *Michael Lawler (NY), *Adriano Espaillat (NY), John Duarte (CA), Susan Wild (PA), Mario Díaz-Balart (FL), Susie Lee (NV), David Valadao (CA), Darren Soto (FL), Dan Newhouse (WA), Colin Allred (TX), Abigail Spanberger (VA), Jake Auchincloss (MA), Mike Levin (CA), Marilyn Strickland (WA), Matt Cartwright (PA), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA), Dean Phillips (MI), Chris Pappas (NH), Elissa Slotkin (MI), Pat Ryan (NY), Joe Courtney (CT), Lori Trahan (MA), Chrissy Houlahan (PA), Christopher DeLuzio (PA), Eric Sorensen (IL), Nikki Budzinski (IL), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL), Emilia Sykes (OH), Val Hoyle (OR), Jared Moskowitz (FL), Greg Landsman (OH), and Mary Peltola (AK).

    The following organizations have weighed in with endorsements, statements of support, and/or positive comments about the Dignity Act:

    Organizations (50+): Agriculture Workforce Coalition, Alliance for a New Immigration Consensus (ANIC), American Action Forum, American Business Immigration Coalition, American Families United, American Immigration Lawyers Association, American Podiatric Medical Association, American Senior Housing Association, Americans for Prosperity, BDV Solutions, Behring Co., Bipartisan Policy Center, Brick Industry Association, Business Roundtable, Catholic Charities USA, Casa de Venezuela, Chris Coons, U.S. Senator (D-DE), Cleaning Coalition of America, Essential Worker Immigration Coalition, Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, Florida Farm Bureau Federation, Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association, Florida Tomato Exchange, FWD.us, Hispanic Leadership Fund, Ideaspace, Immigration Hub, Improve the Dream, Invest in the USA (IIUSA), Ken Salazar, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, LIBRE Initiative, Mason Contractors Association of America, National Association of Counties, National Association of Evangelicals, NAFSA: Association of International Educators, National Association of Landscape Professionals, National Immigration Forum, National Latino Evangelical Coalition, National Retail Federation (NRF), Niskanen Center, Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA), Power & Communication Contractors Association, Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans, Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida, TechNet, TESOL International Association, Texas Border Coalition, Texas Impact, The Legal Immigration and Border Enforcement Reform this Year (LIBERTY) Campaign, UnidosUS, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), U.S. Hispanic Business Council, U.S. Travel Association, and World Relief.

    KEY PROVISIONS OF THE DIGNITY ACT

    Securing the Border and Restoring Law and Order

    • Provides $25 billion to fully secure the border.
    • Mandates 100% nationwide E-verify to ensure all American businesses are hiring legal workers.
    • Achieves operational control and advantage of the Southern Border by employing a comprehensive Southern Border Strategy.
    • Constructs enhanced physical barriers and deploys the most up-to-date technology at the border.
    • Hires thousands of new Border Patrol agents, CBP officers, and border intelligence units.
    • Implements new policies to stop criminals crossing the border illegally, including new authorities to track cartel spotters, and raises penalties on human traffickers and child sex traffickers.
    • Authorizes DHS to officially designate an organization as a criminal street gang, making any alien involved in a criminal gang inadmissible and deportable.
    • Designates Mexican cartels as Special Transnational Criminal Organizations.
    • Directs DHS to complete and implement biometric exit at all air, land, and sea ports-of-entry for international travelers.
    • Provides DHS the authority to use DNA testing to verify family relationships.
    • Enhances port-of-entry security by expanding surveillance and intrusion detection systems.
    • Improves legal commerce and trade by expanding inspection lanes and investing in X-ray technology to safely inspect commercial vehicles.

    Fixing our Asylum System

    • Expedites processing and ends catch-and-release policies.
    • Establishes at least five Humanitarian Campuses (HC) that will receive individuals and families arriving at the southern border for immediate processing.
      • Asylum-seekers will remain at an HC until their case is decided.
      • They will have freedom of movement within the HC, access to state-of-the-art facilities, medical personal, legal counsel, and non-governmental organizations.
    • Decides asylum cases within 60 days. Asylum-seekers will undergo an initial credible fear interview within 15 days of their arrival and further screening by trained asylum officers for final determination within an additional 45 days.
      • *Complex cases may be referred to case management to await a hearing before an Immigration Judge.
    • Creates five additional immigration centers in Latin America to stop migrant caravans and prevent individuals from making the dangerous land journey to the United States.
      • The centers will offer asylum pre-screening, child reunification services, and employment counsel to determine eligibility for work visas in the United States.
    • Implements a security and development strategy to address instability in Central America. This will help bring stability and economic development to Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.
    • Increases U.S. authorities to target transnational criminals, smugglers, human traffickers, drug traffickers, and gangs like MS-13.
    • Cracks down on asylum fraud by increasing penalties for those that make false statements or provide false documentation.
    • Establishes a new two-strike policy for anyone caught crossing at a non-port-of-entry, to ensure legitimate asylum seekers are processed appropriately while bad actors are apprehended.

    Giving Dignity and Redemption to Undocumented Immigrants

    • Creates immediate protected status and streamlined path for Dreamers and TPS recipients, as outlined in the Dream and Promise Act.
    • Establishes the Dignity Program, a practical solution for undocumented immigrants who have been in the U.S. for more than five years.
      • Recipients will be offered a chance to work, pay restitution, get right with the law, and earn legal status.
      • Applicants must comply with all federal and state laws, pass a criminal background check, and pay outstanding taxes or debts.
      • Dignity participants will also pay $5,000 in restitution during the seven years of the program, check in with DHS every two years, and remain in good public standing.
      • Individuals in the Dignity Program will not have access to federal means-tested benefits or entitlements.
    • Establishes two options after successful completion of the Dignity Program – Dignity Status or the Redemption Program:
      • Dignity Status: Dignity recipients who choose this option will immediately receive a five-year Dignity Status, which provides full work authorization, the ability to live in the U.S., and travel authorization outside the U.S. They will also remain ineligible for citizenship, means-tested benefits, and entitlements. Dignity Status can be renewed an indefinite number of times as long as the individual remains in good standing with the law.
      • Redemption Program: The Redemption Program (+5 years) requires completion of the seven-year Dignity Program. It offers Dignity recipients a chance to redeem themselves and earn permanent legal status. Redemption Program participants must learn English and U.S. civics and contribute to their local community either through community service or an additional $5,000 in restitution payments. Successful completion of the Redemption Program provides legal permanent resident status and eligibility for existing pathways to citizenship. Participating individuals would go to the back of the line.

    Dignity for American Workers

    • Creates a new American Worker Fund, using restitution payments from the Dignity and Redemption Programs. This fund will provide workforce training, upskilling, and education for unemployed American workers.
      • For every participant in the Dignity Program, their restitution payments will be able to train or retrain at least one American worker.
      • The American Worker Fund provides grants for workforce education initiatives, apprenticeship programs, higher education, and Career and Technical Education to give opportunities for Americans to enter new careers.
        • *This will ensure Americans can secure employment in in-demand careers.

    American Agricultural Dominance

    • Streamlines the H-2A application process by allowing employers to file with relevant agencies in a single platform, reducing regulatory burden for farmers and businesses.
    • Creates a year-round Agricultural workforce, removing “seasonal” requirements on the H-2A program and expanding it to year-round labor.
    • Combats price hikes so families can access affordable groceries and a large variety of U.S.-based produce.
    • Repeals the complicated and unpredictable Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) formula to calculate wages for farmers set by the Department of Labor. It replaces it with either 125% of the federal minimum wage or the applicable state/local minimum wage.
    • Allows Staggered Entry for advanced planning so employers can have workers start at different dates of the year to meet their specific needs.
    • Opens the H2A program to apple cider pressing on farms, aquaculture, the equine industry, forestry activities, conservation, forest management, and wild fish and shellfish processors.
    • Includes special procedures regulations for shepherding and goat herding, shearing, bee keeping, and custom combining.
    • Creates a Certified Agricultural Workers (CAW) program, as established in the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, with renewable five-and-a-half year visas available only to undocumented workers that have been working in agriculture for several years previously.
      • Foreign workers could apply for lawful permanent residence (LPR) after successfully maintaining either eight years of CAW status or four years of CAW status plus ten years of previous agricultural work experience in addition to making restitution payments and paying owed back taxes.
    • Includes the Returning Worker Exception Act, which Reforms the H-2B program by exempting returning workers from the visa caps of the three previous fiscal years. It also improves the H-2B application process, requiring the DOL to maintain a publicly accessible online job registry, and strengthening program integrity measures and anti-fraud provisions to protect American workers and guest workers.

    Unleashing American Prosperity and Competitiveness

    • Modernizes our legal immigration system and fixes backlogs.
      • Cuts the legal immigration backlog at ten years, ensuring anyone that has been waiting for a legal visa (either family-based or employment-based) for ten years or more (calculated by priority date) will be provided with that visa.
      • Raises the per-country cap set in the Immigration Act of 1990 from 7% to 15%.
      • Allows STEM PhD graduates from American universities, including medical students, to be eligible for an O visa. This allows “Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement” to stay and work in the U.S. if they choose to.
      • Increases high-skilled employment visas opportunities by only counting the principal applicant and excluding derivatives (children and spouses) from counting towards the annual Employment-Based visa caps. It does not raise the caps.
      • Includes the H-4 Work Authorization Act, allowing spouses of H-1B immigrants to automatically be granted work authorization upon receiving their H-4 visa.
      • Includes the American Families United Act, which authorizes discretion if an undocumented child or spouse of a U.S. citizen is denied a visa or has received a deportation order, affording families relief on a case-by-case basis.
      • Includes the Temporary Family Visitation Act, which creates a new, 90-day visitor visa that can be used by foreigners to travel to the United States for business, pleasure, or family purposes.
      • Ensures that children legally present in the United States do not age out of receiving certain visas due to USCIS processing delays.
      • Requires students working in the United States as part of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program to pay FICA (Social Security and Medicare) taxes.
      • Modernizes student visas by changing the F visa to be “dual intent.”
      • Creates an Immigration Agency Coordinator position to oversee and streamline immigration functions at USCIS, the State Department, and the Department of Labor.
      • Surges resources to USCIS operations, the Bureau of Consular Affairs and Visa Service at the State Department, and the Office of Foreign Labor Certification at DOL to reduce delays and improve visa processing.

    No taxpayer funds will be used to pay for the Dignity Act.

    • The border infrastructure, improved ports of entry infrastructure, new humanitarian campuses, increased personnel, and all other associated costs in this bill are paid for by an “Immigration Infrastructure Levy.”
      • A 1.5% levy will be deducted from the paychecks of individuals given work authorization under the Dignity Program. These levies will be deposited into the Immigration Infrastructure Fund to be used to carry out the provisions of this act.
    • The American Worker Fund, used to provide workforce development for American workers, will be funded by restitution payments from the Dignity and Redemption Programs.

    For a link to the full press conference, click here.

    For a one-pager on the Dignity Act, click here.

    For a more detailed summary of the Dignity Act, click here.

    For a section-by-section breakdown of the Dignity Act, click here.

    For the full text of the bill, click here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Cree Nation Government and Parks Canada successfully complete Feasibility Assessment and announce an agreement to formally work toward establishing an offshore Indigenous Protected Area and national marine conservation area in the Eeyou Marine Region

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    The proposed national marine conservation area spans more than 26,000 km2 and is home to the Crees and to abundant wildlife.

    The proposed national marine conservation area spans more than 26,000 km2 and is home to the Crees and to abundant wildlife

    October 18, 2024                        Beaupré, Quebec                      Parks Canada

    Today, the Cree Nation Government and Parks Canada announced the successful completion of the Feasibility Assessment and signed an agreement to formally work toward establishing a proposed Indigenous Protected Area and national marine conservation area in the offshore waters of the Eeyou Marine Region. This is a major step toward achieving official protection for this rich marine environment.

    The announcement was made in Beaupré, Quebec, by Grand Chief and Chairperson Mandy Gull-Masty of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) / Cree Nation Government, and the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.

    The proposed Wiinipaakw (James Bay) Protected Area would receive protection as an Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) through mechanisms determined by the Crees and would be established as a national marine conservation (NMCA) area under the Canada National Marine Conservation Area Act and in accordance with Chapter 6 of the Eeyou Marine Region Land Claims Agreement. A proposed IPA – NMCA in the Eeyou Marine Region would be adjacent to but not in Quebec and would not include any portion under the administration of the Government of Nunavut.

    The Eeyou Marine Region is rich in biodiversity and history. It is essential to Cree culture and Eeyou pimaatisiiwin (the Cree way of life). Many rivers flow out into Wiinipaakw (James Bay) bringing large amounts of freshwater to the Bay. This creates a unique marine environment with a salt concentration much lower than that of Chiwiinipaakw (Hudson Bay) and of oceans.

    As a part of the larger Chiwiinipaakw (Hudson Bay) inland sea, Wiinipaakw (James Bay) is also a hub for migrating geese, ducks, shore birds, and marine mammals. The Wiinipaakw Indigenous Protected Area and national marine conservation area will contribute to the protection of offshore water ecosystems and help mitigate climate change. Large scale conservation aligns with the treaties and rights of the Eeyouch (Crees) of Eeyou Istchee and their determination to maintain their culture, pimaastisiiwin (way of life), and support food security. The Eeyouch have been stewards to these lands, waters, and ice since time immemorial.  

    Engagement and consultation will continue with Indigenous and local communities, other relevant jurisdictions and federal departments, stakeholders, and the public during the next stages toward establishment. Once protected, the new national marine conservation area will also contribute 0.45 per cent to the Government of Canada’s target of protecting 30 per cent of lands and waters in Canada by 2030.

                                                                                                           -30-

    • The Eeyou Marine Region is rich in biodiversity, history and is essential to Cree culture and Eeyou pimaatisiiwin (the Cree way of life). The Eeyouch have been stewards of these lands and waters since time immemorial. 

    • In 2010, following the signing of the Eeyou Marine Region Land Claims Agreement, the Cree Nation Government approached Parks Canada with the suggestion of collaborating on an Indigenous-led project. This built upon years of work (the Tawich Marine Protected Area project) already completed by the Cree Nation of Wemindji and researchers to extend the terrestrial protected areas network into the offshore.

    • In May 2019, the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) / Cree Nation Government formalized this collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Parks Canada. The MOU initiated a feasibility assessment to explore the establishment of a national marine conservation area, defining the terms and conditions under which it could be established. It also created a Steering Committee, comprising two representatives from the Cree Nation Government and two from Parks Canada, tasked with guiding the feasibility assessment process and with preparing a feasibility assessment report.

    • The Steering Committee compiled and summarized existing ecological and environmental data to highlight areas of rich biodiversity within the Study Area defined in the 2019 MOU. The Committee conducted engagement activities with the five coastal Cree First Nations (Waskaganish, Eastmain, Wemindji, Chisasibi, and Whapmagoostui), with Cree entities, and with stakeholders. Through these sessions, the Committee gathered insights on Cree interests, concerns, and ideas about potential opportunities associated with a national marine conservation area.

    • The Government of Canada is committed to reconciliation and renewed relationships with Indigenous peoples, based on a recognition of rights, respect, collaboration, and partnership.

    Hermine Landry
    Press Secretary     
    Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
    873-455-3714
    hermine.landry@ec.gc.ca

    Kristen Moar
    Political Attachée – Office of the Grand Chief / Attachée politique – Bureau de la Grande Cheffe
    Cree Nation Government / Gouvernement de la Nation Crie
    819-895-4451
    kristen.moar@cngov.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Additional Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open in Liberty, Toombs Counties

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Additional Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open in Liberty, Toombs Counties

    Additional Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open in Liberty, Toombs Counties

    ATLANTA — FEMA opened two additional Disaster Recovery Centers in Liberty and Toombs counties to provide one-on-one help for Georgians affected by Hurricane Helene. The centers are open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. 

    Center locations:

    Liberty County
    Miller Park/HQ Fire Station 
    6944 E. Oglethorpe Highway
    Midway, GA 31320

    Toombs County
    Georgia Department of Human Services
    162 Oxley Drive 
    Lyons, GA 30436

    Additional centers are open in Coffee, Lowndes, Richmond and Washington Counties: 

    Coffee County

    The Atrium

    114 N. Peterson Ave. Douglas, GA 31533

    Lowndes County

    City of Valdosta

    4434 North Forrest Street Extension Valdosta, GA 31605

    Richmond County

    Hub for Community Innovation

    631 Chafee Ave. Augusta, GA 30904

    Washington County

    Sandersville School Building Authority

    514 North Harris St. Sandersville, GA 31082

    To find center locations in the state, visit FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Georgia Page, FEMA’s DRC Locator or text “DRC” and your Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

    Homeowners and renters in Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Fulton, Glascock, Glynn, Hancock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, McIntosh, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne and Wheeler counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Georgia and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

    If you are in an affected county, you are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages.

    Disaster Assistance Teams are also on the ground in affected counties going door-to-door to help survivors register for assistance.

    For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

    ###

    FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.

    larissa.hale
    Fri, 10/18/2024 – 18:35

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Leadership Must Be Rooted in Nationalism for India’s Global Rise – says Vice-President

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Leadership Must Be Rooted in Nationalism for India’s Global Rise – says Vice-President

    The Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, today observed that leadership must be deeply wedded to nationalism and that the nation must be kept at the centre to serve the greater good of the nation. The Vice-President further proposed research in India, innovate in India, and design in India. He said, economic nationalism is fundamental to our growth. Expressing concern over the volume of export of Indian raw materials, he urged the stakeholders to develop economic ethics on not exporting our raw materials without value addition.

    We have constitutionally structured leadership at village level because India is the only country that has constitutionally structured democracy at village and municipal level.

    Now our Sarpanch, Pradhan, Jila Pramukh play key roles. They have funds at their disposal.

    If they… pic.twitter.com/xsKas3Uy8v

    — Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) October 18, 2024

    While addressing the Indian School of Business Leadership Summit 2024 at Mohali, the Vice-President underscored, India’s rise in the world would mean global peace, global stability, and global harmony. He also underscored India’s century is not desirous of hegemony or domination but global public good. Stressing on leadership in India’s century, he said that India needs next generation leaders who can drive innovation and change.  He also emphasised on creating leaders who find Indian solutions for Indian and global problems and creating partnerships to resolve challenges of everyday Indian.

    Vice-President highlighted the dangers of indoctrination, likening it to “giving hard sugar to a diabetic patient,” adding, It is creating enemies of the nation from outside, only by making their life affordable. He warned against the increasing trend of young leaders being manipulated and groomed through fellowships, visiting programs, and university affiliations, saying, they are brainwashed, indoctrinated.

    The Vice-President highlighted the dangers of indoctrination, emphasising that it is creating enemies of the nation from outside, only by making their life affordable. He warned against the increasing trend of young leaders being manipulated and groomed through fellowships, visiting programs, and university affiliations, saying, they are brainwashed, indoctrinated.

    Shri Dhankhar emphasized the critical role that nationalism must play in leadership training, urging institutions to incorporate it as a core component of leadership programs.  Nationalism should be a part of leadership curriculum. It is the foremost curriculum as a matter of fact, he stressed. An individual committed to nationalism will be able to thwart these moves. Even by being a part of it, he will be able to stand on his own spinally and thereby neutralize such forces, he said.

    Addressing the significance of grassroots leadership, the Vice-President emphasized that India is the only country with constitutionally structured democracy extending to the village and municipal levels. He remarked, “We have leadership now constitutionally structured at the village level because India is the only country that has constitutionally structured democracy at village level, at municipal level. Most nations have legislatures at state and central levels.

    The academia, the industry, leaders and students must ponder over facets of leadership with Indian characteristics.

    The nation has to be kept at the centre. Whatever we may do in any part of the globe, our heart and soul reside in India.

    I urge the leadership to be deeply… pic.twitter.com/7rMApUuNrz

    — Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) October 18, 2024

    Shri Dhankhar remarked that Indian talent is increasingly relevant globally and that Indian human resource is dominating global discourse when it comes to corporate heads driving interest everywhere. He further highlighted the transformation that India has undergone in the last decade, becoming a $4 trillion economy with 8% growth potential, expanding infrastructure with four new airports, one metro system built yearly, 500 million bank accounts in the shortest time, 6.5 billion digital transactions monthly.

    Shri Dhankhar also emphasized the governance is dictated only by principles of transparency and accountability and that the youth now have an ecosystem where they can fully exploit their talent as power corridors have been duly sanitized of corrupt elements. Exhorting the youth by referring to them as the leaders-in-making, he urged them to serve the nation with full dedication and be the ambassadors of economic nationalism for the nation.

    Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Governor of Punjab, Shri Rakesh Bharti Mittal, Vice-Chairman of Bharti Enterprises, Shri Madan Pillutla, Dean, Indian School of Business and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

    ****

    JK/RC/SM

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INDIAN NAVY’S MOTORCYCLE EXPEDITION FLAGGED OFF

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 18 OCT 2024 8:09PM by PIB Delhi

    Vice Adm Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command flagged off a Motorcycle Expedition ‘Northeast Odyssey’ today from Shillong, Meghalaya in attendance of Lt Gen Sanjay Malik, GOC, 101 Area and Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, SASO, Eastern Air Command.

    The expedition is being undertaken in association with TVS Motor Company in the Northeastern States of Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh with the aim of enhancing awareness about the Navy in these vibrant states and to engage with the youth and civil society. The Navy has previously made similar successful efforts in the Northeast in 2022 and in Leh/ Ladakh in 2023.

    The main objectives of the current initiative in the three North Eastern States include showcasing Indian Navy and conducting Awareness Drives at Schools/ Colleges about the career opportunities in Indian Navy, including the Agnipath Scheme. This drive upholds Nari Shakti, by including Women Officers and spouses, and also aims at interaction with Naval Veterans and Veer Naris in the region. The 15-day expedition would cover a distance of 2500 kms, passing through various cities in the states of Meghalaya, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

    In his address at the flag off ceremony, Vice Adm Rajesh Pendharkar, stated that the Navy has always been promoting adventure activities as these not only serve to inspire personnel to aim higher and achieve better, but also supports team building and strengthens camaraderie, which are crucial for efficient performance at sea.  He congratulated the Riders for undertaking an expedition aimed at enhancing maritime consciousness and awareness about the Navy in an important part of the country that is distant from the seas but close to everyone’s hearts. He wished all participants a safe and memorable ride and also thanked TVS Motors for partnering with the Navy for an important cause.

    ______________________________________________________________

    VM/SKY                                                                                                         214/24

     

     

    (Release ID: 2066215) Visitor Counter : 64

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ITU-WTSA 2024 organises ‘Safe Listening Workshop’ to advocate the responsible use of technology

    Source: Government of India (2)

    ITU-WTSA 2024 organises ‘Safe Listening Workshop’ to advocate the responsible use of technology

    Over a billion young people worldwide are at risk of avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices: WHO

    Posted On: 18 OCT 2024 8:00PM by PIB Delhi

    ITU-WTSA 2024 which is being held in New Delhi hosted a joint ITU-WHO Workshop on Safe Listening, addressing the urgent global public health crisis of hearing loss, and the dangers posed by unsafe listening practices. With the statistics showing over 1 billion young people at risk of hearing loss due to unsafe listening, the workshop underscored the importance of collective action in ensuring that safe listening practices become a global norm. In response to this growing public health problem, WHO launched the Make Listening Safe initiative in 2015, with the aim of preventing hearing loss through hearing conservation.

    The inaugural session was attended by Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, India, Dr. P. Payden, Deputy Head, WHO country Office, India ​and Hemendra Kumar Sharma, Deputy Director General (Media) & Spokesperson, Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications, India. Renowned musician Ricky Kej moderated the session.

    Speaking at the workshop, Ms. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs said “It is important for policy makers and regulators to develop standards not only for manufacturers but also for users and services. There should be education & training for tracking sound exposure, on the lines of tracking other health parameters like calorie intake & footsteps.” She further highlighted Indian cultural practices which are aligned towards this cause and said “In our culture, there’s a festival ‘Mauni Amavasya’, in which one is supposed to keep quiet & fast. Perhaps, relishing the sound of silence. I think that is extremely therapeutic and we must realise that together, we can create a difference for not only India, but for the world at large.”

    P. Payden, Deputy Head, WHO country Office, India, said “The cascading consequences of hearing loss translates into millions facing communication challenges, diminished quality of life, and potential impact on professional development/education. Besides, noise-induced hearing loss in children can impair language acquisition, leading to learning disabilities and increased anxiety. Untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation, depression, and cognitive decline. However, she also emphasized that there is good news as well, and noise-induced hearing loss is preventable by adopting safe listening habits. She further mentioned that the global ITU standard for safe listening devices and systems provides a framework for incorporating features into personal audio devices, such as acoustic symmetry which monitors a sound allowance for a given period. Features that give a warning when users reach 100% of their weekly sound allowance.

    She concluded by saying “WHO is committed to promoting safe listening practices through research. Dissemination of evidence-based guidance and collaborating with stakeholders to create safe listening. Hearing loss is irreversible, but it’s preventable.”

    Addressing the stakeholders, Hemendra K Sharma, Dy Director General & Spokesperson, DoT said that over 5% of the world’s population require rehabilitation for disabling hearing loss, including 34 million children and that, it requires two pronged approach of having right regulation and  plenty of awareness. He informed the audiences about the DoT’s Sanchar Mitras, the student volunteers, who are creating awareness of citizen centric services of department. 30 such Sanchar Mitras from across the country were participating in the workshop and were urged by Sharma to take the message of safe listening practices to citizens.

    A detailed presentation on the subject was given by ITU and WHO. Simao Cam​​​pos, Counsellor,ITU-T spoke about the relevance of standardization to drive change in the health sector including hearing health. He outlined how behaviour change can be motivated through implementation of standards and regulation. Dr Shelly Chadha, Technical Lead, Ear and Hearing Care,​ WHO spoke about the Global Standards for Safe Listening and other WHO efforts to make listening safe. She outlined WHO’s philosophy on safe listening, what the standard is about, how it can be implemented.

    A panel discussion was also held on implementing the ‘Safe listening Standard:  Motivations and Challenges brought together representatives from standardization organizations, private sector entities, governments, and users. The panellist included Mr Masahito Kawamori, Keio University (Japan), Mr Karl Brookes, Sony (UK), Dr Kapil Sikka, AIIMS Delhi (India). The panel explored various aspects, including potential pitfalls and solutions for compliance, and actions to promote safe listening practices. Special focus was on implementing these standards, highlighting the unique challenges and rationales. The discussion also delved into the user perspective, emphasizing the benefits, challenges, and overall impact of safe listening. Mahima Sharma and Sanchar Mitra, Ms S J Varshaa shared their insights, adding a fresh perspective to the conversation reminding the audience that this issue deeply affects the younger generation.

    The session concluded with a call for continued global collaboration, emphasizing that coordinated efforts between governments, industry, and organizations like WHO and ITU are essential for advancing the adoption of safe listening standards.

    These discussions and developments are part of the side events of the ongoing WTSA 24 & IMC24 being held in New Delhi. The event marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s digital journey, reinforcing the country’s commitment to becoming a global leader in advanced communication technologies.

    *****

    SB/DP/ARJ

    (Release ID: 2066212) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 24, 2025
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