Podcasts about obergefell

The first brick at Stonewall. The repeal of “Don't Ask, Don't Tell”. Obergefell v. Hodges. What better way to commemorate these extremely profound and meaningful moments in the history of the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights than by chaotically (but helpfully!) talking about… butt stuff. In this chaotically good June Pride Month episode, we revisit a classic podcast answer where Lina went deep, we're talking reaaaaallll deep, into all things anal. Come away educated, excited, enlivened, and relaxed. (In the butthole) Read Dan Savage's beautifully written and juicy Thirst Inventory here Get Lina's favorite anal sex memoir The Surrender here To support the pod and join our thriving ask a sub community of kinky pocket friends, Join Patreon starting at $6/month! Submit questions for this podcast by going to memo.fm/askasub and recording a voice memo. Subscribe to the subby substack here. See the paid post archive here. Get 20% off your order at http://www.momotaroapotheca.com with code LINADUNE Twitter | @Lina.Dune | @askasub2.0 CREDITS Created, Hosted, Produced and Edited by Lina Dune With Additional Support from Mr. Dune Artwork by Kayleigh Denner Music by Dan Molad

Veteran pro-family advocate Peter LaBarbera sits down with John-Henry Westen to mark a sobering anniversary: 10 years since the Obergefell decision redefined marriage in America. LaBarbera lays out the cultural and spiritual fallout, from the normalization of gay parenting to the rise of transgender ideology and the marginalization of Christian truth. He exposes the hidden history of early LGBT activism, including disturbing links to pro-pederasty groups like NAMBLA, and challenges Christians to face hard truths the world wants erased. With clarity and conviction, he and Westen urge Catholics to speak with courage and love in a culture that now brands truth as hate.U.S. residents! Create a will with LifeSiteNews: https://www.mylegacywill.com/lifesitenews ****PROTECT Your Wealth with gold, silver, and precious metals: https://stjosephpartners.com/lifesitenews +++SHOP ALL YOUR FUN AND FAVORITE LIFESITE MERCH! https://shop.lifesitenews.com/ ****Download the all-new LSNTV App now, available on iPhone and Android!LSNTV Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lsntv/id6469105564 LSNTV Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lifesitenews.app +++Connect with John-Henry Westen and all of LifeSiteNews on social media:LifeSite: https://linktr.ee/lifesitenews John-Henry Westen: https://linktr.ee/jhwesten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Thursday, June 12th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Escalating persecution of Christians in Africa International Christian Concern released a new report on the escalating persecution of Christians in Africa.  Targeted attacks are increasing in countries with large Christian populations like Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Kenya.  The report documented attacks that have killed hundreds of Christians in Africa this year. These attacks not only involve brutal killings, but also abductions and displacement. They are often perpetrated by Islamic militant groups.  Please pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ in Africa.  Conservatives arrested for protesting transgenderism Belgian police arrested two conservative activists last Thursday in Brussels, Belgium for protesting transgenderism. Lois Miller, a Senior Legal Communications Officer with Alliance Defending Freedom International, was holding a sign that read: “Children are never born in the wrong body.” And Canadian child protection advocate Chris Elston was holding a sign that read: “Children cannot consent to puberty blockers.”  The two activists called the police after facing aggressive harassment from bystanders. However, the police decided to arrest Miller and Elston! Listen to comments from Miller. MILLER: “They saw that a mob was formed. They saw that we were in the minority, that we were the ones that were being attacked. And instead of standing up for our rights to have those conversations about really important topics to Belgians everywhere, instead they took us away and they let the mob go free.” Proverbs 17:15 says, “He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.” Progress in U.S.-Chinese trade talks U.S. President Donald Trump announced a preliminary trade deal with China yesterday. Trump said China will provide rare earth minerals and magnets to America and that the U.S. would restart Chinese student visas.  U.S. tariffs on imports from China stand at 55 percent, while Chinese tariffs on imports from the U.S. stand at 10 percent. Total tariffs between the two countries reached 245 percent before trade talks began. Congress might repeal pro-abortion Freedom of Access to Clinics Entrances Act The U.S. House Judiciary Committee advanced a bill this week to repeal the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act also known as the FACE Act. The Biden administration used the act to target peaceful, pro-life activists. Between 1994 and 2024, 97 percent of FACE Act prosecutions were against pro-lifers.  Republican Rep. Chip Roy of Texas said, “With a Republican-led Congress and President Trump's support, we can repeal this law and protect free speech for all.” Clarification on religious groups story from yesterday We apologize for any confusion from our story yesterday about the growth of religious groups around the world. To clarify, the total number of Christians did increase from 2.1 billion to 2.3 billion between 2010 and 2020. However, as a percentage of the world's population, Christianity actually decreased from 30.6 percent to 28.8 percent over the same time period. You see, even though the number of Christians grew over that decade, it did not grow fast enough to keep up with global population growth, especially the fertility rate of Muslims, and thus Christians decreased as a percentage of the world's population. Religious instruction under public school umbrella Public school students in Iowa can now take courses in religious instruction. Iowan Republican Governor Kim Reynolds signed the bill into law last Friday. The measure allows parents to send their children to religious instruction provided by a private group during the school day. Greg Chafuen, senior counsel at Alliance Defending Freedom, said, “Parents have the right and responsibility to guide the upbringing and education of their children. The government should not stop families from raising their children in their family's faith.” Southern Baptists call for overturn of Obergefell homosexual marriage ruling The Southern Baptist Convention adopted multiple resolutions this week on the topics of marriage, sexuality, and human life. One resolution called for the overturning of the U.S. Supreme Court's Obergefell v. Hodges ruling which legalized faux homosexual marriage. Another resolution called for Congress and state legislatures to ban chemical abortion drugs. And a third resolution called for the banning of pornographic content.  Representatives to the Southern Baptist Convention urged, “all Southern Baptists to advocate in the public square for laws and policies that reflect the moral order revealed in Scripture and nature, and to bear witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which alone restores broken lives, redeems sin, and brings eternal hope.” Psalm 119:46 says, “I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.” Worldview listeners in England, Canada and Texas share their hearts I invited Worldview listeners to share what they enjoyed about the newscast in 2-6 sentences. You can share your thoughts -- along with your  full name, city and state -- and send it to adam@theworldview.com Dan from Gloucestershire, England wrote, “Hi Adam. I love The Worldview for the information you share and how you relate a couple of your stories to the Bible with specific verses. Keep up the good work.” Priscilla Lipp in Calgary, Alberta, Canada wrote, “I enjoy getting a snippet of world news from a Christian perspective. Refreshing, with reports I won't hear on Canadian mainstream media. My husband, several grown children, and a neighboring couple have also signed up.” And Patricia Herbst – on behalf of Luis, Tricia, Natalie, Nichole, and Luciano -- in Kyle, Texas wrote, “I want to thank you for the incredible blessing your ministry has been to our family. “Through your curriculum, app, and daily broadcasts, we've been consistently enriched with wisdom, truth, and discipleship. My husband, children, and I are growing in faith because of your efforts. You are truly a gift from God, and we're so grateful for your faithfulness.” 7 Worldview listeners gave $815 to fund our annual budget And finally, toward our midpoint goal of $61,750 to fund half of The Worldview newscast's annual budget by this Friday, June 13th, 7 listeners stepped up to the plate. Our thanks to Tim in Woodland, California who gave $25 and Julie in Victoria, Texas who gave $40. We appreciate Kitty in Tulare, California, Linda in Tampa, Florida, and Daniel in Evansville, Indiana – each of whom gave $50. And we're grateful to God for Ryan in Brighton, Colorado who gave $100, Steven in Rest, South Carolina who gave $200, and Alex in Greenwood, Indiana who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. Those 7 Worldview listeners gave a total of $815.  Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please. (Drum roll sound effect) $24,565.20 (People clapping sound effect) That means we still need to raise $37,134.80 by midnight on Friday, June 13th to hit the half-way mark, to stay on the air, and fund our 6-member Worldview newscast team for another fiscal year. Remember If you are one of 8 final people who give a one-time gift of $1,000, Scooter in Naples, Florida will match you with a corresponding $1,000 gift. If that happens on Thursday, we will have raised $16,000. In order to raise the remaining amount, I need to find 17 Worldview listeners who will pledge $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600. And another 32 listeners to pledge $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. Has God placed it on your heart to be one of the Christian patriots to fund this unparalleled newscast which affirms pre-born babies, God's divine design for our sexuality, and often equips you with practical ways you can take a stand for righteousness in an evil culture? Please, we need your help right now! Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right. Click on the button that indicates a recurring donation if you want to give monthly. Is it possible that we might double our daily donors from 20 to 40 on Thursday? Let's see what the Lord will do.  Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, June 12th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

This Day in Legal History: Loving v. Virginia On June 12, 1967, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its landmark decision in Loving v. Virginia, striking down state laws that banned interracial marriage. The case arose when Richard Loving, a white man, and Mildred Loving, a Black and Indigenous woman, were sentenced to a year in prison for marrying each other in Washington, D.C., then returning to their home in Virginia, which criminalized interracial unions under its Racial Integrity Act of 1924. The couple's challenge to their conviction eventually reached the nation's highest court.In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court held that Virginia's anti-miscegenation law violated the Equal Protection and Due Process Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment. Chief Justice Earl Warren, writing for the Court, stated that the freedom to marry is a “vital personal right,” and restricting that freedom on the basis of race was “directly subversive of the principle of equality at the heart of the Fourteenth Amendment.” The Court emphasized that classifications based solely on race are “odious to a free people” and cannot stand.The decision invalidated laws in 16 states that still prohibited interracial marriage at the time, cementing Loving v. Virginia as a major victory in the civil rights movement. It not only reinforced the constitutional commitment to racial equality but also laid critical groundwork for later decisions involving personal liberty, including Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage in 2015.A U.S. federal judge ruled that the Trump administration cannot detain Columbia University student and pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil based on U.S. foreign policy concerns. The decision, issued by Judge Michael Farbiarz in Newark, found that using a rarely applied immigration law to justify Khalil's detention violated his free speech rights. Khalil, whose green card was revoked in March, has been in detention since then and was the first foreign student arrested amid the pro-Palestinian campus protests following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel.The court found that Khalil was suffering irreparable harm due to the damage to his career and the chilling effect on his speech. While the ruling bars Khalil's deportation under the foreign policy provision, it does not require his immediate release, allowing the administration until Friday to appeal. Khalil's wife, Dr. Noor Abdalla, urged his immediate return to their home in New York, where she cares for their newborn son.Neither the State Department nor the Justice Department commented. The case reflects tensions over U.S. responses to student activism amid global political conflicts, particularly as Trump-era policies are used to target protesters. The foreign policy provision invoked allows deportation of non-citizens if their presence is seen as harmful to U.S. interests, but the court found it unconstitutional in this case.US foreign policy no basis to detain Columbia protester Khalil, judge rules | ReutersCalifornia is taking the Trump administration to court over the deployment of U.S. Marines to Los Angeles amid escalating protests against President Donald Trump's immigration policies. Approximately 700 Marines are set to join 4,000 National Guard troops to support federal agents and protect government property, sparking backlash from state officials who argue the move is illegal and inflammatory. California Governor Gavin Newsom, along with other state and local leaders, contends the deployment violates the state's rights and unnecessarily escalates tensions.The protests, which began in response to a wave of immigration raids, have spread to cities including New York, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., and are expected to intensify with over 1,800 demonstrations planned for the weekend. Demonstrators in Los Angeles have largely remained peaceful, though incidents of violence and aggressive police responses have been reported. A federal judge in San Francisco will hear arguments Thursday as California seeks a restraining order to halt the military's law enforcement involvement.The Marines have completed crowd control and de-escalation training but are operating under Title 10 of U.S. law, which authorizes limited military involvement in civilian matters. They are permitted to detain individuals interfering with federal duties but are not supposed to engage in regular policing. Trump defended the deployment, calling it essential to maintaining order, while critics, including national Democrats, have called it a dangerous overreach.Marines prepare for Los Angeles deployment as protests spread across USA group of current and former female athletes is appealing the NCAA's $2.8 billion antitrust settlement, arguing that the deal violates Title IX by disproportionately compensating male athletes. Approved by a federal judge on June 6, the settlement allocates 90% of back pay damages to men, largely benefiting football and basketball players. The objectors, represented by attorney John Clune, argue this breakdown reflects a $1.1 billion miscalculation and discriminates against women in violation of federal law.The appeal, filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, is the first formal challenge to a settlement touted as a major victory for student-athletes. Clune said the agreement lacks meaningful support for women's sports, including basketball and Olympic disciplines, and warned that schools are already discussing cutting programs as a result of the deal's financial structure.Critics of the appeal, including settlement attorney Jeffrey Kessler, claim the Title IX objection is misplaced in an antitrust case and will delay compensation for over 100,000 athletes. Still, the challenge raises questions about gender equity in how the NCAA compensates athletes for past name, image, and likeness (NIL) restrictions.While the total settlement amount isn't being disputed, the appeal could impact future policies around compensation, roster limits, and salary caps. The NCAA says it's continuing with implementation, but the appeal introduces legal uncertainty into an already complex shift in college athletics.NCAA $2.8 Billion Deal Gets Appealed Over Title IX Issues (1)Donald Trump's legal team is attempting to fast-track an appeal of his New York felony conviction by moving the case toward the U.S. Supreme Court. Trump was convicted in Manhattan on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, marking the first time a former or current president has been found guilty of a felony. His attorneys returned to court this week to argue the state case should be shifted to federal jurisdiction.They contend that Trump's actions were connected to his official duties as president and thus should be handled in federal court, where they believe he might receive a more favorable legal environment. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is currently weighing the request, which Trump hopes will pave the way for a rapid review by the Supreme Court.The legal maneuvering is part of a broader strategy to challenge the legitimacy of the New York state trial and delay sentencing or any other consequences. Trump maintains that the case is politically motivated and that the charges are being used to interfere with his political agenda.Trump Seeks Quick Path to Supreme Court in Hush Money Appeal (1) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Not only is it Pride month but it's also been almost 10 years since the Mormon church issued their policy against the children of LGBTQIA+ parents. We take a look at the effects that policy had, the increasingly draconian measures the government is taking, and we read between the lines of Mormon church policies. We also look at the measures people are taking to improve the lives of LGBTQIA+. For Media of Great Price, we watched the lovely 2018 movie Rafiki about two lesbian women in Kenya. And we end with good news out of Paris about a new monument. Happy Pride Month!    Show notes:  https://www.aclu.org/news/lgbtq-rights/why-utah-no-utopia-lgbt-equality-despite-progress https://archive.thinkprogress.org/the-utah-compromise-is-a-dangerous-lgbt-trojan-horse-db790ad3b69e/ https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/handbook-changes-same-sex-marriages-elder-christofferson https://kutv.com/news/local/group-holds-mass-resignation-from-lds-church-in-slc-saturday https://www.sltrib.com/religion/local/2017/09/30/mormon-general-conference-resumes-for-the-first-time-monson-will-not-be-attending-any-sessions/ https://www.lgbtqnation.com/tag/good-news/  https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/president-nelson-handbook-change https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2018/03/26/mormon-leaders-update-rules-to-allow-adults-in-the-room-for-interviews-with-children-women/ https://www.thechurchnews.com/2018/4/3/23221628/new-apostles-reflect-growth-diversity-of-the-church-2/ https://mormonmentalhealthassoc.org/resources/position-statements/november-5th-policy-reversal/ https://le.utah.gov/~2023/bills/static/HB0228.html https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0521.html https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0283.html https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/HB0316.html https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/HB0527.html https://wheatandtares.org/2017/11/04/the-policy-remember-remember-the-5th-of-november/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homosexuality_and_the_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_teachings_on_homosexuality_in_the_Church_of_Jesus_Christ_of_Latter-day_Saints https://www.thetrevorproject.org/blog/the-trevor-project-celebrates-utah-bill-protecting-lgbtq-youth-from-conversion-therapy/ https://www.deseret.com/utah/2023/2/17/23604347/conversion-therapy-ban-lgbt-utah-bill/ https://www.newsweek.com/utah-lgbtq-conversion-therapy-law-1483039 https://archive.org/details/Homosexuality1981/page/n3/mode/2up?view=theater https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/love-motivated-policy-changes-toward-lgbt-parents-children https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2015/11/06/455014520/mormon-church-declares-same-sex-couples-to-be-apostates https://www.npr.org/2019/04/04/709988377/in-major-shift-mormon-church-rolls-back-controversial-policies-toward-lgbt-membe https://archive.sltrib.com/article.php?id=3144035&itype=CMSID https://mormonleaks.io/wiki/index.php?title=File:Re-_Gay_Couples_and_Baby_Blessings-2015-07-21.pdf https://mormonleaks.io/wiki/documents/2/28/Re-_Gay_Couples_and_Baby_Blessings-2015-07-21.pdf https://protectldschildren.org/ https://goodmenproject.com/politics-2/mass-protest-against-sexually-explicit-interviews-by-mormon-bishops-wcz/ https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2018/03/26/mormon-leaders-update-rules-to-allow-adults-in-the-room-for-interviews-with-children-women/ https://www.thechurchnews.com/2018/4/3/23221628/new-apostles-reflect-growth-diversity-of-the-church-2/ https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/asap/two-utah-laws-related-religious-expression-workplace-take-effect#:~:text=H.B.%20396%20%E2%80%93%20Workplace%20Discrimination%20Amendments&text=H.B.%20396%20generally%20prohibits%20an,employee's%20sincerely%20held%20religious%20beliefs. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utah_SB_296_(2015) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obergefell_v._Hodges https://www.scotusblog.com/cases/case-files/obergefell-v-hodges/ https://sblog.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/14-556_Major_Religious_Organizations.pdf https://fedsoc.org/contributors/robin-wilson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26xMnkZCxoc https://kutv.com/news/local/group-holds-mass-resignation-from-lds-church-in-slc-saturday https://quitmormon.com/faq https://equalityutah.org/advocacy/?search_year=2024#tracker   MOGP: Rafiki: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8286894/  Where it's streaming: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/rafiki-2018  Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rafiki_(film)    Happy News:  https://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-news/paris-unveils-memorial-lgbtq-victims-nazi-regime-persecutions-rcna207691   Other appearances: Chris Shelton interviewed us in the beginning of a series on Mormonism. Here's the most recent episode on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsofor4IgR8   Email: glassboxpodcast@gmail.com  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GlassBoxPod  Patreon page for documentary: https://www.patreon.com/SeerStonedProductions Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/glassboxpodcast BlueSky: @glassboxpodcast.bsky.social  Other BlueSky: @bryceblankenagel.bsky.social and @shannongrover.bsky.social  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glassboxpodcast/  Merch store: https://www.redbubble.com/people/exmoapparel/shop Or find the merch store by clicking on “Store” here: https://glassboxpodcast.com/index.html One time Paypal donation: bryceblankenagel@gmail.com  Venmo: @Shannon-Grover-10  

June 2025 marks a decade since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage. The landmark 5-4 ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges resolved a long-standing national debate and brought together a conflicting patchwork of state laws. Eight months before the SCOTUS decision, the Republican-dominated state of Arizona legalized same sex marriages, though the road to get there was rocky. This week on The Gaggle, a politics podcast by The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com, host Mary Jo Pitzl is joined by Republic editor Shaun McKinnon and LGBTQ+ rights advocate Sheila Kloefkorn to look back at the events that led to Arizona in 2014 joining the states that legally recognize gay marriage, and cast forward on what challenges remain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Los Angeles remains eerily normal under military occupation, as Trump stokes unrest, Congress members face charges, and the right targets same-sex marriage again. Update: Los Angeles-via AP News, CBS News New Jersey House Rep Charged-via CNN Greta Thunberg -via BBC Austria Shooting-via BBC Southern Baptists v Obergefell-via NY TimesTake the pledge to be a voter at raisingvoters.org/beavoterdecember. - on AmazonSubscribe to the Substack: kimmoffat.substack.comAll episodes can be found at: kimmoffat.com/thenewsAs always, you can findme on Instagram/Twitter/Bluesky @kimmoffat and TikTok @kimmoffatishere

The current state of LGBTQ+ rights and politics reflects both significant progress and mounting challenges, with ongoing debates over transgender rights, workplace protections, and marriage equality. Activism, rooted in the community's historic struggle for equality, continues to drive the Pride movement's call for visibility, justice, and protection against rising anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rhetoric.In this episode, Mari Nemec, Advocacy Counsel for the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association, joins us to discuss the evolving fight for LGBTQ+ rights, the vital role of legal advocacy in countering political threats, and how Pride remains a powerful reminder that activism, visibility, and community are essential to securing lasting equality.Related Episodes:Listen to Episode 06. Gay Panic DefenseListen to Episode 20. Don't Say GayListen to Episode 46. Obergefell v. Hodges and the Ongoing Fight for Marriage EqualityListen to Episode 67. 303 Creative LLC v. ElenisAdditional Resources:The LGBTQ+ Panic Defense: A Threat to Our Safety and EqualityThe Ripple Effects of the "Don't Say Gay" Bill on LGBTQ+ CommunitiesThe Fight for Marriage Equality Isn't Over: Obergefell & BeyondHow 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis Threatens LGBTQ+ Freedoms and Civil RightsLearn More About the National LGBTQ+ Bar AssociationFollow the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association on InstagramConnect with the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association on LinkedInFollow the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association on FacebookSubscribe to the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association on YouTubeFollow the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association on TwitterSupport the showGet Your Merch

John Arthur's vows to Jim Obergefell came during a unique wedding ceremony that changed the course of American history. It was 2013 and at the time, Arthur was dying of ALS. Due to the generosity of friends and family the couple were able to exchange vows from within a medical plane parked in Maryland, where gay marriage was legal. Obergefell and Arthur's fight to get their marriage recognized by their home state of Ohio went all the way to the Supreme Court, ultimately paving the way for nationwide marriage equality for same-sex couples 10 years ago. John, tragically, passed before the ruling, but the couple's story endures as a milestone for the LGBTQ+ community. Jim Obergefell joins The Excerpt to share more about his historic journey.Let us know what you think of this episode by sending an email to podcasts@usatoday.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

June is a time to honor and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. It's also a month when the Supreme Court has historically made pivotal decisions for LGBTQIA+ rights. This week, Co-Director of the ACLU's LGBT & HIV Project Chase Strangio joins W. Kamau Bell to reflect on the 10-year anniversary of marriage equality with Obergefell v. Hodges, how that case bears on the pending U.S. v. Skrmetti decision, and what it looks like to show up for trans youth and their families in this critical moment. For more information on Skrmetti and actions you can take, head to action.aclu.org. While you're there, take the pledge to support trans youth and sign the petition to defend trans freedom: action.aclu.org/petition/defend-trans-freedom action.aclu.org/petition/take-pledge-support-trans-youth-now This episode was executive produced by Jessica Herman Weitz for the ACLU, and W. Kamau Bell, Kelly Rafferty, PhD, and Melissa Hudson Bell, PhD for Who Knows Best Productions. It was recorded at Skyline Studios in Oakland, CA. Our senior executive producer is Sam Riddell. At Liberty is edited and produced by Erica Getto and Myrriah Gossett for Good Get.

It's Wednesday, June 4th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Christians persecuted in Mali, Africa by military junta Christians are facing increased persecution in Mali after the military junta initiated a crackdown in May. The military of the West African nation dissolved all political parties in the crackdown. Jo Newhouse with Open Doors Sub-Saharan Africa said, “Christians in Mali have faced increasing persecution over the past few years. By closing the democratic space, and further encroaching on civil liberties, the junta is adding unwelcome pressure to an already volatile situation.” Please pray for the church in Mali, Africa. The country is ranked 14th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian.  Ukrainian evangelist: Thousands coming to Christ A Ukrainian evangelist addressed the European Congress on Evangelism in Berlin, Germany last Thursday. Evangelist David Karcha reported that Ukrainian Evangelicals have been ministering to their fellow countrymen since Russia invaded the country in 2022. Churches are seeing thousands of people come to Christ during the war. Karcha said, “In the world's eyes, Ukraine is a story of war. But in God's eyes, it is a story of revival, a story that reminds us all that the Gospel advances.” 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 says, “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds … and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.” American economy predicted to grow by only 1.6% this year The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development cut its economic growth outlook for the United States. The group forecasts the U.S. economy will expand by 1.6% this year, down from its previous forecast of 2.2%. Experts also expect global economic growth to slow this year in the wake of U.S President Donald Trump's tariff policies. They also noted, “trade uncertainty and economic policy uncertainty has reached unprecedented levels.” Dept of Ed. shuns homosexual pride month, celebrates Title IX month To its credit, the U.S. Department of Education is not celebrating homosexual pride month in the month of June. Instead, the Trump administration is recognizing June as “Title IX Month.” Title IX of the Education Amendments was signed into law by President Richard Nixon on June 23, 1972. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs. However, the Biden administration tried to inject transgender protections into the law. Under Trump's Education Department, the administration is promising to protect women's and girls' sports from such transgender activism.  Muslim immigrant used flamethrower on peaceful pro-Israel group in CO An immigrant, motivated by anti-Semitic beliefs, has been accused of brutally attacking a peaceful pro-Israel group advocating for Israeli hostages held captive by the Muslim terrorist group known as Hamas, reports The Blaze. Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national in the United States despite reportedly overstaying his visa, is suspected of attacking a group of individuals participating in a walk in Boulder, Colorado at 2:00pm on June 1st. According to CNN, he allegedly used a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails to set people on fire at an event in support of hostages in Gaza as he yelled “Free Palestine.” He injured at least 12 people. The victims ranged in age from 52 to 88 years old, including a Holocaust survivor. The U.S. Attorney General's office has charged Soliman with a hate crime. The attack targeted the “Run for Their Lives” group, a grassroots organization that gathered on Pearl Street on Sunday evening to support the release of the hostages captured by the terrorist group in October 2023. According to the FBI, the Jewish group chapter gathers weekly. Maya Bajayo is the organizer of the “Run for Their Lives” group. BAJAYO: “We're here only to raise awareness for the hostages. It makes it even more scary for us that it could have been us.” Amazingly, Bajayo, who has been leading the walk for 83 Sundays straight, refuses to stop walking despite the threat of violence. She explained why to Channel 9 News. BAJAYO: “To show people that we're still here, the problem hasn't been solved, and the hostages need to be released. We're just not going to give up on them.” Oklahoma Governor: "Life begins at conception.” During June, Oklahoma is celebrating  a “Month for Life.” Republican Governor Kevin Stitt signed the proclamation Monday. He wrote on X, “Life begins at conception. We're committed to supporting moms every step. And God has a plan for every life.” The proclamation encouraged citizens to join the Oklahoma March for Life on Saturday, June 7. 10th anniversary of Supreme Court's pro-homosexual marriage ruling The U.S. Supreme Court handed down its Obergefell v. Hodges decision 10 years ago on June 26, 2015. The infamous ruling requires states to recognize same-sex unions as marriages.  A new survey from Gallup found that 68% of U.S. adults support faux same-sex marriage, up from 60% in 2015. However, that support has plateaued over the last five years.  No one shared why they like The Worldview in 5 Minutes And finally, I would love to know why you enjoy listening to The Worldview in 5 Minutes.  Do you like the variety of stories, the reports on the persecuted church, the Christian worldview, the 2 Scriptures, the soundbites, the links to additional information in our transcript, or the occasional uplifting, positive story?  Email me 2-6 sentences and include your name, city, and state.  Surprisingly, I did not get a single email on Tuesday despite the fact that tens of thousands of people listen to the newscast or read the transcript.  Send your email to Adam@TheWorldview.com. 18 listeners gave $4,202 to fund The Worldview newscast Toward this week's $30,875 goal to fund one-fourth of The Worldview newscast budget by this Friday, June 6th, 18 listeners stepped up to the plate.  Our thanks to Joshua in Bolivar, Missouri who gave $30 as well as Rachelle in Longview, Washington, Margaret in White Salmon, Washington, Jeremy in Swansea, Wales in the United Kingdom, and Karena in Eugene, Oregon – each of whom gave $50. We appreciate Dick in Hoyt, Kansas, Hannah in San Jose, California, David in Plano, Texas, Adam in Gile, Wisconsin, and David in Crestview, Florida – each of whom gave $100. We're grateful to God for Hannah in Green Valley, Arizona who gave $132,Genevieve in Wheat Ridge, Colorado who pledged $20/month for 12 months for a gift of $240, Kristen in Columbia Falls, Montana who gave $250, and Luis and Patricia in Kyle, Texas who pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300. And we appreciate the generosity of Steven in Coatesville, Pennsylvania who gave $350, James in Cardiff, Wales in the United Kingdom who pledged $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600, Patricia in  Winfield, Iowa who gave $700, and Larry and Sue in Crooked Creek , Alberta, Canada who pledged $75/month for 12 months for a gift of $900. Those 18 listeners gave a total of $4,202. Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please.  (Drum toll sound effect) $4,932 (People clapping sound effect)  That means by this Friday, we still need to raise $26,873. We missed our goal of 20 donors on Tuesday by only 2 donors.  In order to hit our goal by this Friday, June 6th, we need to raise $8,957 on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.   Toward that end, I wonder if there might be 4 Worldview listeners who could give $1,000.  Another 8 who would pledge $50/month. And 12 more who would pledge $25/month.  That would enable us to raise $11,800 on Wednesday. Maybe we can hit 20 donors today. Go to TheWorldview.com and click on Give on the top right.    Click on the button that indicates a recurring donation if you want to give monthly. Where else can you find a succinct and timely newscast with a Biblical perspective? Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, June 4th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

We cover the Colorado transgender nightmare and contemplate attempts to reverse Obergefell. But be encouraged. Bad ideologies don't last all that long — 60-70 years max. We include a little history lesson, to gain perspective here. The Darwinist Eugenics and Superior Race theories were smashed to smithereens in 1945. The witchcraft and seances of early 19th century America were tossed into hell by 1865. These movements were outrageously popular but they didn't last long. Jesus reigns. This program includes: 1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Jake Tapper confessed: Conservative media was right about Biden's decline, Alaskan volcano could blow, Armenian Christian details abuses in Iranian prison) 2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

Colorado laws threaten parental rights, states challenge Obergefell, and a family farm recovers from a hurricane. Plus, the pope becomes fodder for comedians, Cal Thomas on political theater, and the Thursday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Pensacola Christian College. Academic excellence, biblical worldview, affordable cost. go.pcci.edu/worldFrom Ambassadors Impact Network. Helping entrepreneurs with a purpose find the support they need to thrive with faith-aligned financing options. More at ambassadorsimpact.com

It's Tuesday, May 13th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Four Christian families evicted in Laos Four Christian families have lost their homes, after being evicted from their village in north-western Laos a week ago.  They were forced to leave their possessions behind, and leave their home in the Luang Namtha province in northern Laos, near the border of Thailand.   BarnabasAid.org has provided funds to cover the believers' immediate needs for rice, cooking oil, hygiene products, and other essentials. United Kingdom's disturbing euthanasia bill The United Kingdom House of Commons is considering a euthanasia bill.   A rather macabre government appraisal has estimated a cost savings of 59.6 million pounds for the killing of 1,000 and 4,500 people per year. The government report also noted other cost savings from the “social care sector and in social security payments.” The bill would allow the killing of a person whom doctors prophesy to only have six months or less to live. Deuteronomy 27:25 speaks to this when the leaders of Israel said, “Cursed is the one who takes a bribe to slay an innocent person. And all the people shall say, ‘Amen!'” Christian clerk, who refused to certify homosexual “marriage,” goes before Supremes Liberty Counsel, a Christian legal advocacy group, will be appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court for Kentucky Clerk Kim Davis of Rowan County. She is arguing that the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment protects her from liability and damages for refusing to issue a “same-sex marriage” license against her religious beliefs. Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said that the case “underscores why the U.S. Supreme Court should overturn Obergefell v. Hodges because that decision threatens the religious liberty of many Americans who believe that marriage is a sacred institution between one man and one woman.” Closer to nuclear war today The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists has moved the Doomsday Clock to 89 seconds before midnight. The clock, which estimates the risks of nuclear war, has been in operation for 70 years.   During the Cuban Missile Crisis, the clock moved to 7 minutes to midnight. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the clock moved to 17 minutes. The clock moved to 2 minutes in 2018, and now 89 seconds to midnight in 2025. The organization attributes “profound global instability and geopolitical tension” to the moving of the needle. “King of Kings” animated film makes $65 million The Mormon-owned Angel Studios has succeeded again — with the film “King of Kings,” an animated story of a little boy who takes a journey through events in the life of Jesus. (audio clip of trailer) FATHER: “Our story begins 2,000 years ago, when baby Jesus came into the world.” SON: “Wait, wait, stop. If it's not about a king, then I'm not interested!” FATHER: “This story is about the King of kings.” SON: “Wow!” FATHER: “It has angels and wicked kings and miracles.” SON: “Look at all the fish.” FATHER: “Oh, so you want to hear the story now?” SON: “Uh-huh!” So far, the film has collected $65 million at the box office. That exceeds the Angel Studios' previous box office total of $14 million for the film, “His Only Son” on Abraham's trek to Mount Moriah. Last year's film, “Cabrini,” produced by Angel Studios, was a treatment of the Roman Catholic saint by the name of Maria Francesca Cabrini who established 67 schools and orphanages in New York City in the late 1800s for poor, Italian immigrants. This production earned $21 million at the box office. The Mormon-owned studio's top box office hit was “The Sound of Freedom,” earning $251 million in 2023 — a film on the subject of sex trafficking. The Chief Executive Officer of Angel Studios is Neal Harmon, a Mormon. Tentative trade agreement between China and America U.S. President Donald Trump announced Monday a temporary China-US trade agreement, which would cut U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports from 145% to 30%. China would cut their tariffs on U.S. imports from 125% to 10%. TRUMP: “Yesterday, we achieved a total reset with China. After productive talks in Geneva, both sides now agree to reduce the tariffs imposed after April 2nd to 10% for 90 days as negotiators continue in the largest structural issues. “That doesn't include the tariffs that are already on, that are our tariffs, and it doesn't include tariffs on cars, steel, aluminum, or tariffs that may be imposed on pharmaceuticals because we want to bring the pharmaceutical businesses back to the United States. They're already starting to come back now, based on tariffs, because they don't want to pay 25%, 50%, or 100% tariffs. So, they're moving them back to the United States. “The talks in Geneva were very friendly. The relationship is very good. We're not looking to hurt China. China was being hurt very badly. They were closing up factories. They were having a lot of unrest, and they were very happy to be able to do something with us. The relationship is very, very good. I'll speak to President Xi maybe at the end of the week.” The deal will operate during a trial period of 90 days. U.S. government debt spirals higher The U.S. government is still on a big spending spree. The U.S. Treasury records a $1.049 trillion budget deficit for the first seven months of fiscal 2025. That's up 23% over a year earlier. Social Security spending is up 9% year-over-year. Outlays reached a record number of $4.159 trillion for the year to date. Gutsy GOP Congresswoman wants to defund Planned Parenthood And finally, Breitbart News reports that Republican Congresswoman Mary Miller of Illinois is behind a move to defund Planned Parenthood's abortion funding through the budget reconciliation process. Miller noted that “abortions made up 97.1% of Planned Parenthood's pregnancy services from 2021-2022, performing nearly 400,000 abortions.” The House Committee on Energy and Commerce released a portion of the proposed bill on Monday, with the provision to strip abortion providers of funding.   Mary Miller is a homeschooling mom of seven and grandmother of 20, hailing from the state of Illinois. Proverbs 24:11-12 reminds us, “Deliver those who are drawn toward death, and hold back those stumbling to the slaughter. If you say, ‘Surely we did not know this,' does not He who weighs the hearts consider it? He who keeps your soul, does He not know it? And will He not render to each man according to his deeds?” Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, May 13th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Article- Lawless Judges Going to Jail as Trump Team Fights Lawfare Crippling the Executive Branch. Pope Elections. John Zmirak The Eric Metaxas Show John Zmirak  May 01 2025   Other Episodes More at stream.org Article mentioned- Lawless Judges Going to Jail as Trump Team Fights Lawfare Crippling the Executive Branch By John Zmirak Published on April 28, 2025 Read this article at- https://stream.org/the-brew-lawless-judges-going-to-jail-as-trump-team-fights-lawfare-crippling-the-executive-branch/ John Zmirak- You knew it was coming, didn't you? A full-on showdown between the Trump administration and the out-of-control federal courts.   It has gotten clearer by the day that a conspiracy of biased federal judges and left-wing nonprofits with teams of white-shoe lawyers has been operating to cripple the executive branch of government. The unprecedented use of judicial orders to hamstring and micromanage President Donald Trump's exercise of presidential power has created a constitutional crisis — amounting to a coup d'etat by unelected judges. Try to imagine if GOP-appointed judges had conspired to kneecap Barack Obama while he was in office. The nation would have been treated to earsplitting banshee cries of “racism,” judicial impeachment hearings, and well-funded riots in blue cities.   Don't believe me?   Remember the threats by members of Congress against Supreme Court justices when the decision overturning Roe v. Wade got leaked? (By whom, we'll never know). Think of the protests outside conservative justices' homes, and the near-miss assassination attempt on Justice Brett Kavanaugh. The Democrats tried to pack the court with new, preprogrammed leftist justices and talked about imposing term limits on SCOTUS. None on the left were warbling about the sanctity of “judicial independence” and “the rule of law” then. They only believe in the System when they can game it, like some bratty child demanding “do-overs” whenever he strikes out at bat.   No One's Above the Law Democrats were chanting “No one's above the law” when they invented fake crimes to try to imprison Donald Trump in New York, an effort led by Chief Justice John Roberts' crony Norm Eisen. The same Democrats are now suffering conniption fits as Attorney General Pam Bondi takes action against judges who committed genuine offenses. Let's look at the first two arrests, and pray that more follow wherever judges are flouting the law and undermining our democracy. CNBC reports:   Federal authorities have arrested a Wisconsin judge and a former New Mexico judge in two separate cases, accusing them of interfering with Trump administration immigration enforcement efforts.   Milwaukee Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan was arrested Friday morning and charged with obstruction. She is accused of helping an undocumented immigrant evade arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers after he appeared in her courtroom April 18.   Dugan's arrest came one day after federal authorities arrested a former New Mexico judge, Joel Cano, and his wife on charges related to the Canos' reported harboring of an undocumented immigrant with alleged ties to the notorious gang Tren de Aragua.   It's hard to decide which of these arrests is more satisfying.   Before she became a judge who would help smuggle illegal aliens out of her courtroom to evade arrest by ICE, Dugan was formerly the executive director of Catholic Charities of southeastern Wisconsin. As The Stream has reported, that particular wealthy, taxpayer-funded nonprofit has been credibly accused of colluding with Mexican cartels to traffic immigrants into the country. Elon Musk's DOGE investigations have largely cut off government funds to Catholic Charities, which served as the main conduit for some $3 billion sluiced into the U.S. Catholic bishops' coffers over the past 15 years — reimbursing them, almost dollar for dollar, for sex-abuse settlements those bishops racked up.   Fool around, find out, indeed. Next there's the case of former judge Joel Cano, who was keeping an accused Tren de Aragua gang member at his house. Feast your eyes on this servant of the court and the rescue gangster he adopted:   On Fox News Pam Bondi explained just how far Cano had gone to help Lopez evade prosecution:   He took one of the TDA members' cellphones, beat it with a hammer, and destroyed it. Then he walked the pieces to a city dumpster to dispose of them to protect himself. … The judge and his wife gave [Lopez] assault rifles that belonged to their daughter. He goes to the shooting range with these assault rifles, with a suppressor, with other known TDA members, and they are shooting. This is the LAST person we want in our country. Nor will we ever tolerate a judge or anyone else harboring them.   The Biden regime intentionally engineered this perfect storm of lawlessness by refusing to enforce our just, democratically enacted immigration laws. The 10 million-plus illegals Biden imported are counted toward congressional representation, providing the Democrats with 20 seats in the House of Representatives they otherwise wouldn't hold, as Musk has estimated. And as we reported Friday, leftist judges are making it easy for those illegal aliens to vote in federal elections by striking down Trump's executive order requiring proof of citizenship.   When faced with such orchestrated chaos, the Trump administration has no choice but to take drastic action to reimpose order and the genuine rule of law. Faster, please.   Please Support The Stream: Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day. Trump Meets Zelensky at Impromptu Summit at Pope Francis's Funeral The petulant, demanding president of Ukraine, Volodomyr Zelenksyy, has been frustrating Donald Trump's peace-making efforts, making impossible demands such as the return of Crimea — which Russia seized in 2014, with hardly a protest from the Obama administration and no organized resistance by Ukraine. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed the Trump team's impatience last week, threatening to walk away from talks altogether. It's good to see that communications are still open, as evidenced by this hastily arranged meeting of Trump with Zelenskyy and French President Emanuel Macron at St. Peter's Basilica, which will host the funeral of Pope Francis.   Pray for an end to the futile, fratricidal conflict the Biden administration's bungling help to spark, which has claimed more than a million casualties from two historically Christian countries.   Our Diversity Is Our … Strength? Our out-of-control borders haven't just been flooding the country with foreign gang members and high school dropouts who compete with our least privileged fellow citizens for jobs. We're also importing aggressive, intolerant Islam — the religion that's fueling terrorism and the persecution of Christians all across the world. Take a look at this little video, which shows how Dallas, Texas, is being islamicized.   The First Amendment was written to prevent intra-Christian conflict and religious persecution. The Founders never intended it as a charter for the mass influx of religions entirely alien to our traditions. That's just one more reason to drastically and permanently reduce mass immigration into America.   Along The Stream… Could authentic prophetic dreams expose false prophecies and prophets? Join Wanda Alger and her guest Andrew Whalen later this morning for a fascinating exploration of that idea.   The ever-thoughtful Joseph Mattera's latest essay explains why we need not just healing but resurrection — a key insight this Easter season.     John Zmirak is a senior editor at The Stream and author or coauthor of 14 books, including The Politically Incorrect Guide to Immigration and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Catholicism. His newest book is No Second Amendment, No First.     The Brew: Democrat Judge Doubles Down on Election Fraud. No Need to Prove Citizenship to Vote By John Zmirak Published on April 25, 2025 John Zmirak If you want Exhibit #108 proving that President Donald Trump has no choice but to defy judicial orders from lawless, biased jurists, check out the latest. The Daily Wire reports: A federal judge on Thursday blocked President Donald Trump from implementing an executive order that requires voters to show documentation proving their U.S. citizenship to cast a ballot in federal elections. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly, a Bill Clinton appointee, granted a preliminary injunction stopping the Trump administration from going forward with the proof-of-citizenship requirements as a lawsuit plays out, the Associated Press reported. The lawsuit, filed by the Democratic National Committee and leftist voting rights groups, claims that Trump's order is “an unlawful action that threatens to uproot our tried-and-tested election systems and silence potentially millions of Americans.” … The judge's move means that yet another Trump action will be tied up in the courts and prevented from taking effect. Federal judges have blocked numerous Trump orders, including on cuts to federal agency staff, deportations, and birthright citizenship. As of Thursday, 108 different rulings have blocked or temporarily frozen Trump's attempts to carry out his agenda, according to The New York Times. There you go. The Democratic National Committee wants non-citizens voting. Or else it thinks that its voters are so clueless and unqualified that they don't have any ID. No drivers licenses, nothing they'd need to show in order to cash a check at a local bank. Check out this classic 2017 video whose host asks white liberals whether non-white Americans carry ID … then asks a series of non-white Americans whether they do. “Why would they think we don't have ID?” one of the questioners asks the host. He doesn't answer. He doesn't have to. Now consider what motive the Biden administration had for importing more than 10 million illegal aliens and sending them to swing states. Foreign Voters and Foreign Money Help the Left Grab Power While some in MAGA world are frustrated at the Trump administration's pace of progress, one man can only do so much. He is taking aim at some of the most important targets, the key players in corrupting American politics. He's going after Act Blue, for instance, as Politico reports: In a shot at ActBlue, the left's major online donation platform, President Donald Trump plans to sign a presidential memorandum on Thursday that he will cast as cracking down on foreign contributions in American elections, according to a person familiar with the policy and granted anonymity to discuss not-yet-public details. Attorney General Pam Bondi's office is expected to be involved in the effort, the person said. The order is expected to specifically target ActBlue. Republicans have long claimed the platform could be exploited by foreign actors, while Democrats have warned the action is an example of Trump baselessly targeting political opponents. … The memo will direct Bondi to “investigate and take appropriate action concerning allegations regarding the use of online fundraising platforms to make ‘straw' or ‘dummy' contributions and to make foreign contributions to U.S. political candidates and committees, all of which break the law” and report results to the president and his general counsel, according to the fact sheet. Why shouldn't foreign billionaires and hostile governments be able to pour billions into U.S. elections and organize non-citizen voters to decide who represents us? That would imply we make distinctions between countrymen and strangers, which the editors of Christianity Today (some of them donors to groups aligned with Act Blue) reliably inform us is alien to “gospel values.” Speaking of funny money, Ashley Biden's nonprofit is having trouble with the IRS. That's what happens when you don't report honestly. The Free Beacon has the real story: Ashley Biden's charity has a $500,000 discrepancy in its books, a watchdog alleged in a complaint filed with the IRS on Monday. … To Paul Kamenar, an attorney with the National Legal and Policy Center watchdog group, the documents show that Ashley Biden's charity clearly violated IRS rules by failing to disclose $500,000 in contributions it received in 2023. Let's remember the immortal words of now-embattled New York Attorney General Letitia James: “No one is above the law.” Abortion Clinic Targets Children for Sexual Grooming Remember the old libertarian talking point about “keeping the government out of our bedrooms”? Now we realize the government and the LGBTQ movement need to be kept out of the nursery, too. See the latest outrage, courtesy of Libs of TikTok: The State cannot sit neutral. It can't reach a stopping point at “consenting adults,” the way Classical liberals pretend. Either the government will make laws based on the Natural Law which God wrote on the human heart — which you don't need faith or grace to understand — or it will base laws on something darker and falser. It took the rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire to rescue women and children from sexual slavery. As the Gospel recedes from people's hearts, the vacuum it leaves will be filled, and filled by spirits. The explosion of transgender madness, child castration, and attacks on Christians as “unfit parents” in the wake of the 2015 Obergefell decision shouldn't surprise us; it should goad us to counterattack with the truth. The Next Pope? I'm not following the conclave that's gathering to elect a successor to the disloyal Pope Francis, largely because the people he appointed to the College of Cardinals transformed that body into a lavender Jacuzzi. One of Francis's appointees, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, is considered a frontrunner among “progressives” who wish to continue transforming the Catholic Church into the chaplaincy of the World Economic Forum. Here he is performing John Lennon's utopian, atheist anthem “Imagine” for a crowd that we can hope was duly puzzled by it. Imagine Pope Francis II. (It's easy if you try.) Catholics don't believe that God picks the popes — otherwise, we'd have to explain why during the Renaissance He always picked the cardinals who'd paid the biggest bribes or were the illegitimate children of previous popes. We just have to pray for Jesus to protect us from our shepherds, who seem to have developed a taste for lamb. Coming Soon: A New Ice Age to Save the Climate Gateway Pundit reports: The British government is reportedly just weeks away from approving bizarre experiments aimed at dimming sunlight in a bid to combat so-called climate change. Proposed outdoor trials may involve spraying aerosols into the upper atmosphere or artificially brightening clouds to bounce sunlight back into space in order to help cool the earth. … The experiments are being pushed under the premise that humanity isn't cutting emissions quickly enough to avoid an environmental apocalypse, at least, according to scientists still clinging to worst-case climate scenarios. Scientists backing the proposals believe that, if the tests yield promising results, the techniques could be expanded and rolled out on a wider scale within a decade. These people want to control the weather, to make the earth less fertile so it can feed far fewer people. But remember that the threat to our freedoms and our future are … conservatives and Christians. Along The Stream… Later this morning, join Allen Jackson, pastor and author of Angels, Demons & You, for a sobering look at how spiritual forces impact our daily lives in this 26-minute video. Why is it crucial that we consider each of our fellow human beings as made in the “image of God”? How does that change everything about how we live our lives? Find out from this insightful essay.   John Zmirak is a senior editor at The Stream and author or coauthor of 14 books, including The Politically Incorrect Guide to Immigration and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Catholicism. His newest book is No Second Amendment, No First.   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  John Zmirak makes his weekly appearance and covers current events and shares recent articles available at-   https://stream.org/author/johnzmirak/ Watch Eric Metaxas on Rumble-  https://rumble.com/c/TheEricMetaxasRadioShow  The Eric Metaxas Show- https://metaxastalk.com/podcasts/ Eric Metaxas Show on Apple Podcasts-    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-eric-metaxas-show/id991156680 Check out- Socrates in the City   Find All of John Zmirak Articles at- https://stream.org/author/johnzmirak/   John Zmirak is a Senior Editor of The Stream. He received his B.A. from Yale University in 1986, then his M.F.A. in screenwriting and fiction and his Ph.D. in English in 1996 from Louisiana State University. He has been Press Secretary to pro-life Louisiana Governor Mike Foster, and a reporter and editor at Success magazine and Investor's Business Daily, among other publications. His essays, poems, and other works have appeared in First Things, The Weekly Standard, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, USA Today, FrontPage Magazine, The American Conservative, The South Carolina Review, Modern Age, The Intercollegiate Review, Commonweal, and The National Catholic Register, among other venues. He has contributed to American Conservatism: An Encyclopedia and The Encyclopedia of Catholic Social Thought. From 2000-2004 he served as Senior Editor of Faith & Family magazine and a reporter at The National Catholic Register. During 2012 he was editor of Crisis. He is author, co-author, or editor of twelve books, including Wilhelm Ropke: Swiss Localist, Global Economist, The Grand Inquisitor and The Race to Save Our Century. His newest book is No Second Amendment, No First. Zmirak can be found at https://stream.org/author/johnzmirak/   John Zmirak is a senior editor at The Stream and author or co-author of ten books, including The Politically Incorrect Guide to Immigration and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Catholicism. He is co-author with Jason Jones of “God, Guns, & the Government.”   John Zmirak's new book: No Second Amendment, No First  by John Zmirak  Available March 19, 2024 Today's Left endlessly preaches the evils of “gun violence." It is a message increasingly echoed from the nation's pulpits, presented as common-sense decency and virtue. Calls for “radical non-violence” are routinely endowed with the imprimatur of religious doctrine.   But what if such teachings were misguided, even damaging? What if the potential of a citizenry to exercise force against violent criminals and tyrannical governments is not just compatible with church teaching, but flows from the very heart of Biblical faith and reason? What if the freedoms we treasure are intimately tied to the power to resist violent coercion?  This is the long-overdue case John Zmirak makes with stunning clarity and conviction in No Second Amendment, No First. A Yale-educated journalist and former college professor, Zmirak shows how the right of self-defense against authoritarian government was affirmed in both the Old and New Testaments, is implied in Natural Law, and has been part of Church tradition over the centuries.   --------------------------------------------------------------------  Check out our ACU Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/ACUPodcast   HELP ACU SPREAD THE WORD!  Please go to Apple Podcasts and give ACU a 5 star rating. Apple canceled us and now we are clawing our way back to the top. Don't let the Leftist win. Do it now! Thanks. Also Rate us on any platform you follow us on. It helps a lot. Forward this show to friends. Ways to subscribe to the American Conservative University Podcast Click here to subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click here to subscribe via RSS You can also subscribe via Stitcher FM Player Podcast Addict Tune-in Podcasts Pandora Look us up on Amazon Prime …And Many Other Podcast Aggregators and sites ACU on Twitter- https://twitter.com/AmerConU . Warning- Explicit and Violent video content.   Please help ACU by submitting your Show ideas. Email us at americanconservativeuniversity@americanconservativeuniversity.com   Endorsed Charities -------------------------------------------------------- Pre-Born! Saving babies and Souls. https://preborn.org/ OUR MISSION To glorify Jesus Christ by leading and equipping pregnancy clinics to save more babies and souls. WHAT WE DO Pre-Born! partners with life-affirming pregnancy clinics all across the nation. We are designed to strategically impact the abortion industry through the following initiatives:… -------------------------------------------------------- Help CSI Stamp Out Slavery In Sudan Join us in our effort to free over 350 slaves. Listeners to the Eric Metaxas Show will remember our annual effort to free Christians who have been enslaved for simply acknowledging Jesus Christ as their Savior. As we celebrate the birth of Christ this Christmas, join us in giving new life to brothers and sisters in Sudan who have enslaved as a result of their faith. https://csi-usa.org/metaxas   https://csi-usa.org/slavery/   Typical Aid for the Enslaved A ration of sorghum, a local nutrient-rich staple food A dairy goat A “Sack of Hope,” a survival kit containing essential items such as tarp for shelter, a cooking pan, a water canister, a mosquito net, a blanket, a handheld sickle, and fishing hooks. Release celebrations include prayer and gathering for a meal, and medical care for those in need. The CSI team provides comfort, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on while they tell their stories and begin their new lives. Thank you for your compassion  Giving the Gift of Freedom and Hope to the Enslaved South Sudanese -------------------------------------------------------- Food For the Poor https://foodforthepoor.org/ Help us serve the poorest of the poor Food For The Poor began in 1982 in Jamaica. Today, our interdenominational Christian ministry serves the poor in primarily 17 countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Thanks to our faithful donors, we are able to provide food, housing, healthcare, education, fresh water, emergency relief, micro-enterprise solutions and much more. We are proud to have fed millions of people and provided more than 15.7 billion dollars in aid. Our faith inspires us to be an organization built on compassion, and motivated by love. Our mission is to bring relief to the poorest of the poor in the countries where we serve. We strive to reflect God's unconditional love. It's a sacrificial love that embraces all people regardless of race or religion. We believe that we can show His love by serving the “least of these” on this earth as Christ challenged us to do in Matthew 25. We pray that by God's grace, and with your support, we can continue to bring relief to the suffering and hope to the hopeless.   Report on Food For the Poor by Charity Navigator https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/592174510   -------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer from ACU. We try to bring to our students and alumni the World's best Conservative thinkers. All views expressed belong solely to the author and not necessarily to ACU. In all issues and relations, we hope to follow the admonitions of Jesus Christ. While striving to expose, warn and contend with evil, we extend the love of God to all of his children. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

This week marks the 25th anniversary of the historic passage of the civil unions law in Vermont. On April 25, 2000, after a remarkable four-month marathon of public hearings, legislative maneuvering, protests, counter-demonstrations and statewide soul-searching, the Vermont House of Representatives voted 79-68 to pass the civil unions bill, the most sweeping grant of rights to gay couples in the nation. The law allowed same sex couples to form civil unions, the legal equivalent of heterosexual marriage. Gov. Howard Dean signed it into law the next day.Rep. Bill Lippert was the lone openly gay Vermont legislator in 2000 and led the fight for passage of civil unions and later same-sex marriage. I was a reporter covering these historic events for Mother Jones. Lippert invited me onto the House floor moments after civil unions passed in 2000 to interview him and other supporters of the bill. I described how Lippert made a beeline across the House floor to thank Rep. Bill Fyfe, an 84-year-old former jail warden and Republican state representative from Newport City. His wife was in the hospital, and Fyfe was due to have surgery the following day. But he made sure to be in the Statehouse to cast his vote for civil unions.I asked Fyfe why he had voted for the bill. He looked at me through his thick glasses and his eyes began to water. “Because he's one of my better friends here,” he said, motioning to Lippert. “And there were two ladies who were my next-door neighbors for many years …” He broke into a soft sob. “They were treated terrible. I'm just glad I could do something to help.”Lippert squeezed Fyfe's shoulder to comfort him, “People can be cruel, Bill,” Lippert said.Vermont's civil unions law passed four months after the Vermont Supreme Court ruled in Baker v. Vermont that gay and lesbian couples were entitled to the same legal rights and benefits of marriage as heterosexual couples. The court ordered the Vermont legislature to craft a law that would satisfy the ruling, either by legalizing same-sex marriage or by creating an equivalent partnership structure. The decision, wrote Chief Justice Jeffrey Amestoy, “is simply a recognition of our common humanity.”Vermont's civil unions law was a tipping point for the national movement for LGBTQ+ rights. In 2009, Vermont became the first state to legalize same-sex marriage through an act of the legislature, overriding a gubernatorial veto to do so.In 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4, in the landmark case Obergefell v. Hodges, that same-sex couples could wed throughout the country. Today, LGBTQ+ rights are under attack. President Donald Trump has targeted transgender people with a slew of executive orders. Hundreds of bills aimed at restricting LGBTQ+ rights have been introduced in state legislatures and in Congress. Many people fear that a conservative U.S. Supreme Court could roll back LGBTQ+ rights, including the right to marry.Bill Lippert was living in Philadelphia when he first visited Vermont in 1972 to hike the Long Trail. He had just come out and recalled that he had trouble finding even one other gay man in the state. Lippert became active in Vermont's small gay rights movement and went on to serve 28 years in the Vermont House of Representatives from 1994 to 2022 as the representative from Hinesburg. He served as chair of the House Judiciary Committee for a decade and then chaired the House Health Care Committee.Lippert, 75, is now retired and working on preserving Vermont LGBTQ+ history, including recounting his own experiences as a gay activist and gay legislator in Vermont.Lippert acknowledged that winning civil unions was viewed by some gay rights advocates — including lead attorney (now federal judge) Beth Robinson — as a defeat.Lippert said that he knew that “this fight for marriage equality in Vermont was going to be the biggest gay rights fight perhaps of our lifetime.” But he said that as a legislator for six years, “I could tell what was achievable and what wasn't. It was clear (that) full marriage equality in the year 2000 was not feasible. It was not going to happen.”Lippert insisted that civil unions “was an important step that brought us ultimately to full marriage equality.” And he was determined to build that bridge.“When civil unions passed, I made a personal commitment to myself that if I could continue to be re-elected, I would stay in the Legislature until we achieved full marriage equality, and that happened in 2009,” he said.Lippert says that today's political attacks on trans people has a familiar ring. “Trans people are being used as a target because it's the ‘unknown,'” he said. “Gay and lesbian people used to be the scary unknown, but that doesn't work anymore in the same way.”I asked Lippert what concerns him most today. “The taking away of our basic democratic rights,” he said. “The shocking willingness to detain and deport people who have every right to be here because they've been granted that right.”“I am an optimist by nature, but this is a frightening time, and I've participated in more protests and demonstrations in the last month than I had in the last 10 years,” he said. “And I think it's important that we do that. We deserve to have the country that some of us have fought for … by fighting for civil rights, for LGBTQ+ rights, rights for women, rights for religious freedom.”The passage of civil unions came at a price. Seventeen legislators who supported civil unions in 2000 were defeated in elections the following November as part of the “Take Back Vermont” movement. Lippert takes inspiration from those elected officials.“One of the lessons that I take from civil unions is that there are still people of tremendous personal moral courage and political courage,” Lippert said. He mentioned defeated Republican legislators John Edwards, Marion Milne, Diane Carmolli and Bill Fyfe.“When you're not part of the same ‘despised minority' but you say it's wrong to have discrimination against them, it's wrong to be prejudiced against them — you get attacked as well. And they did so,” he said.“They did the right thing. They chose to stand up,” Lippert said. “That girds my hopefulness.”

"Donald Trump Needs to Defy the Judges and Let the American People Decide at the Midterm Elections whether they Approve of that or Not"- John Zmirak. The Eric Metaxas Show John Zmirak   Apr 23 2025   Other Episodes   Article mentioned- The Brew: Democrat Judge Doubles Down on Election Fraud. No Need to Prove Citizenship to Vote By John Zmirak Published on April 25, 2025 John Zmirak If you want Exhibit #108 proving that President Donald Trump has no choice but to defy judicial orders from lawless, biased jurists, check out the latest. The Daily Wire reports: A federal judge on Thursday blocked President Donald Trump from implementing an executive order that requires voters to show documentation proving their U.S. citizenship to cast a ballot in federal elections. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly, a Bill Clinton appointee, granted a preliminary injunction stopping the Trump administration from going forward with the proof-of-citizenship requirements as a lawsuit plays out, the Associated Press reported. The lawsuit, filed by the Democratic National Committee and leftist voting rights groups, claims that Trump's order is “an unlawful action that threatens to uproot our tried-and-tested election systems and silence potentially millions of Americans.” … The judge's move means that yet another Trump action will be tied up in the courts and prevented from taking effect. Federal judges have blocked numerous Trump orders, including on cuts to federal agency staff, deportations, and birthright citizenship. As of Thursday, 108 different rulings have blocked or temporarily frozen Trump's attempts to carry out his agenda, according to The New York Times. There you go. The Democratic National Committee wants non-citizens voting. Or else it thinks that its voters are so clueless and unqualified that they don't have any ID. No drivers licenses, nothing they'd need to show in order to cash a check at a local bank. Check out this classic 2017 video whose host asks white liberals whether non-white Americans carry ID … then asks a series of non-white Americans whether they do. “Why would they think we don't have ID?” one of the questioners asks the host. He doesn't answer. He doesn't have to. Now consider what motive the Biden administration had for importing more than 10 million illegal aliens and sending them to swing states. Foreign Voters and Foreign Money Help the Left Grab Power While some in MAGA world are frustrated at the Trump administration's pace of progress, one man can only do so much. He is taking aim at some of the most important targets, the key players in corrupting American politics. He's going after Act Blue, for instance, as Politico reports: In a shot at ActBlue, the left's major online donation platform, President Donald Trump plans to sign a presidential memorandum on Thursday that he will cast as cracking down on foreign contributions in American elections, according to a person familiar with the policy and granted anonymity to discuss not-yet-public details. Attorney General Pam Bondi's office is expected to be involved in the effort, the person said. The order is expected to specifically target ActBlue. Republicans have long claimed the platform could be exploited by foreign actors, while Democrats have warned the action is an example of Trump baselessly targeting political opponents. … The memo will direct Bondi to “investigate and take appropriate action concerning allegations regarding the use of online fundraising platforms to make ‘straw' or ‘dummy' contributions and to make foreign contributions to U.S. political candidates and committees, all of which break the law” and report results to the president and his general counsel, according to the fact sheet. Why shouldn't foreign billionaires and hostile governments be able to pour billions into U.S. elections and organize non-citizen voters to decide who represents us? That would imply we make distinctions between countrymen and strangers, which the editors of Christianity Today (some of them donors to groups aligned with Act Blue) reliably inform us is alien to “gospel values.” Speaking of funny money, Ashley Biden's nonprofit is having trouble with the IRS. That's what happens when you don't report honestly. The Free Beacon has the real story: Ashley Biden's charity has a $500,000 discrepancy in its books, a watchdog alleged in a complaint filed with the IRS on Monday. … To Paul Kamenar, an attorney with the National Legal and Policy Center watchdog group, the documents show that Ashley Biden's charity clearly violated IRS rules by failing to disclose $500,000 in contributions it received in 2023. Let's remember the immortal words of now-embattled New York Attorney General Letitia James: “No one is above the law.” Abortion Clinic Targets Children for Sexual Grooming Remember the old libertarian talking point about “keeping the government out of our bedrooms”? Now we realize the government and the LGBTQ movement need to be kept out of the nursery, too. See the latest outrage, courtesy of Libs of TikTok: The State cannot sit neutral. It can't reach a stopping point at “consenting adults,” the way Classical liberals pretend. Either the government will make laws based on the Natural Law which God wrote on the human heart — which you don't need faith or grace to understand — or it will base laws on something darker and falser. It took the rise of Christianity in the Roman Empire to rescue women and children from sexual slavery. As the Gospel recedes from people's hearts, the vacuum it leaves will be filled, and filled by spirits. The explosion of transgender madness, child castration, and attacks on Christians as “unfit parents” in the wake of the 2015 Obergefell decision shouldn't surprise us; it should goad us to counterattack with the truth. The Next Pope? I'm not following the conclave that's gathering to elect a successor to the disloyal Pope Francis, largely because the people he appointed to the College of Cardinals transformed that body into a lavender Jacuzzi. One of Francis's appointees, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, is considered a frontrunner among “progressives” who wish to continue transforming the Catholic Church into the chaplaincy of the World Economic Forum. Here he is performing John Lennon's utopian, atheist anthem “Imagine” for a crowd that we can hope was duly puzzled by it. Imagine Pope Francis II. (It's easy if you try.) Catholics don't believe that God picks the popes — otherwise, we'd have to explain why during the Renaissance He always picked the cardinals who'd paid the biggest bribes or were the illegitimate children of previous popes. We just have to pray for Jesus to protect us from our shepherds, who seem to have developed a taste for lamb. Coming Soon: A New Ice Age to Save the Climate Gateway Pundit reports: The British government is reportedly just weeks away from approving bizarre experiments aimed at dimming sunlight in a bid to combat so-called climate change. Proposed outdoor trials may involve spraying aerosols into the upper atmosphere or artificially brightening clouds to bounce sunlight back into space in order to help cool the earth. … The experiments are being pushed under the premise that humanity isn't cutting emissions quickly enough to avoid an environmental apocalypse, at least, according to scientists still clinging to worst-case climate scenarios. Scientists backing the proposals believe that, if the tests yield promising results, the techniques could be expanded and rolled out on a wider scale within a decade. These people want to control the weather, to make the earth less fertile so it can feed far fewer people. But remember that the threat to our freedoms and our future are … conservatives and Christians. Along The Stream… Later this morning, join Allen Jackson, pastor and author of Angels, Demons & You, for a sobering look at how spiritual forces impact our daily lives in this 26-minute video. Why is it crucial that we consider each of our fellow human beings as made in the “image of God”? How does that change everything about how we live our lives? Find out from this insightful essay.   John Zmirak is a senior editor at The Stream and author or coauthor of 14 books, including The Politically Incorrect Guide to Immigration and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Catholicism. His newest book is No Second Amendment, No First.   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  John Zmirak makes his weekly appearance and covers current events and shares recent articles available at-   https://stream.org/author/johnzmirak/ Watch Eric Metaxas on Rumble-  https://rumble.com/c/TheEricMetaxasRadioShow  The Eric Metaxas Show- https://metaxastalk.com/podcasts/ Eric Metaxas Show on Apple Podcasts-    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-eric-metaxas-show/id991156680 Check out- Socrates in the City   Find All of John Zmirak Articles at- https://stream.org/author/johnzmirak/   John Zmirak is a Senior Editor of The Stream. He received his B.A. from Yale University in 1986, then his M.F.A. in screenwriting and fiction and his Ph.D. in English in 1996 from Louisiana State University. He has been Press Secretary to pro-life Louisiana Governor Mike Foster, and a reporter and editor at Success magazine and Investor's Business Daily, among other publications. His essays, poems, and other works have appeared in First Things, The Weekly Standard, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, USA Today, FrontPage Magazine, The American Conservative, The South Carolina Review, Modern Age, The Intercollegiate Review, Commonweal, and The National Catholic Register, among other venues. He has contributed to American Conservatism: An Encyclopedia and The Encyclopedia of Catholic Social Thought. From 2000-2004 he served as Senior Editor of Faith & Family magazine and a reporter at The National Catholic Register. During 2012 he was editor of Crisis. He is author, co-author, or editor of twelve books, including Wilhelm Ropke: Swiss Localist, Global Economist, The Grand Inquisitor and The Race to Save Our Century. His newest book is No Second Amendment, No First. Zmirak can be found at https://stream.org/author/johnzmirak/   John Zmirak is a senior editor at The Stream and author or co-author of ten books, including The Politically Incorrect Guide to Immigration and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Catholicism. He is co-author with Jason Jones of “God, Guns, & the Government.”   John Zmirak's new book: No Second Amendment, No First  by John Zmirak  Available March 19, 2024 Today's Left endlessly preaches the evils of “gun violence." It is a message increasingly echoed from the nation's pulpits, presented as common-sense decency and virtue. Calls for “radical non-violence” are routinely endowed with the imprimatur of religious doctrine.   But what if such teachings were misguided, even damaging? What if the potential of a citizenry to exercise force against violent criminals and tyrannical governments is not just compatible with church teaching, but flows from the very heart of Biblical faith and reason? What if the freedoms we treasure are intimately tied to the power to resist violent coercion?  This is the long-overdue case John Zmirak makes with stunning clarity and conviction in No Second Amendment, No First. A Yale-educated journalist and former college professor, Zmirak shows how the right of self-defense against authoritarian government was affirmed in both the Old and New Testaments, is implied in Natural Law, and has been part of Church tradition over the centuries.  

It's been a decade since the Supreme Court decision that legalized so-called same-sex marriage. The ruling has left many victims. And Colorado continues its desire to be the nation's most liberal state. Recommendations Breakpoint: How Johnny Hart Pointed to the Cross and Empty Tomb in the Funny Papers Learn more and apply for the Colson Fellows Program at colsonfellows.org. Segment 1 - Ten Years after Obergefell Breakpoint: Obergefell After 10 Years Manhattan Declaration: A Call of Christian Conscience Breakpoint This Week: Defunding Planned Parenthood and the Ethics of “Bodyoids" The Way of the (Modern) World by Craig Gay Segment 2 - Colorado's Radical Laws Colorado SB 25-183: COVERAGE FOR PREGNANCY-RELATED SERVICES AP: Judge finds frozen embryos are not divisible property in cancer survivor's case against ex-husband Colorado bill could strip parents of custody for misgendering their children __________ Register for the upcoming Identity Project webinar: Saying 'I Do' is Good for You at colsoncenter.org/marriage. Learn to manage your money with a team that takes good stewardship to heart with Sovereign Private Wealth at sovereignpw.com.

Katy Faust on the legacy of the most disruptive law on marriage.  ___________ Become a Cornerstone Partner with the Colson Center at colsoncenter.org/monthly. 

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comEvan is an attorney and gay rights pioneer. He founded and led Freedom to Marry — the campaign to win marriage until victory at the Supreme Court in 2015, after which he then wound down the organization. During those days he wrote the book Why Marriage Matters: America, Equality, and Gay People's Right to Marry. Today he “advises and assists diverse organizations, movements, and countries in adapting the lessons on how to win to other important causes.” We became friends in the 90s as we jointly campaigned for what was then a highly unpopular idea.For two clips of our convo — on the early, fierce resistance to gay marriage by gay activists, and the “tectonic” breakthrough in Hawaii — pop over to our YouTube page.Other topics: raised in Pittsburgh by a pediatrician and a social worker; being a natural leader in high school; his awakening as a gay kid; the huge influence of John Boswell on both of us; working at Lambda Legal; Peace Corps in West Africa; a prosecutor in Brooklyn; the AIDS crisis; coalition building; engaging hostile critics; Peter Tatchell; lesbian support over kids; the ACLU's Dan Foley; Judge Chang in Hawaii; Clinton and DOMA; Bush and the Federal Marriage Amendment; the federalist approach and Barney Frank; Prop 8; the LDS self-correcting on gays; the huge swing in public support; Obama not endorsing marriage in 2008; Obergefell and Kennedy's dignitas; Trump removing the GOP's anti-marriage plank; Bostock; dissent demonized within the gay community; the Respect for Marriage Act; and Evan and me debating the transqueer backlash.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy (the first 102 are free in their entirety — subscribe to get everything else). Coming up: Claire Lehmann on the success of Quillette, Francis Collins on faith and science and Covid, Stephen Macedo and Frances Lee on Covid's political fallout, Sam Tanenhaus on Bill Buckley, Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson on the Biden years, and Paul Elie on his book The Last Supper: Art, Faith, Sex, and Controversy in the 1980s. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.

This case underscores why the U.S. Supreme Court should overturn Obergefell v. Hodges. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

01:00 I'm developing a relationship with Grok 06:00 Jews, Judaism & Humor, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159824 08:00 I find almost everything amusing. Does this make make me a nihilist?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159822 12:00 Holding Onto Ourselves in Relationships, Part Ten, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmJKUpSt6NI 28:00 Why would a fan of air supply be drawn to the rock band Scorpions? https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159820 30:00 The First Time A Girl Liked Me, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159816 34:00 Why doesn't Air Supply get any respect?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159812 42:00 Are books for losers? https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159807 43:30 Is Trump ‘Detoxing' the Economy or Poisoning It?, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PXVrLH4zSU 45:00 Give This Sheila Gillian Tett A Shot, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159802 49:00 Kip joins to discuss Weird Science (1985), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weird_Science_(film) 1:12:00 What does America mean to me? After the 2015 Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, I felt despised on by our elite institutions, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obergefell_v._Hodges 1:26:00 How is dating different in Australia vs America?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159798 1:44:50 Michael joins to discuss AI, Chat GPT, https://x.com/real_machera 1:48:30 Why Ruth Marcus left the Washington Post, https://www.newyorker.com/news/essay/why-ruth-marcus-left-the-washington-post 2:00:00 People who are moored don't need gurus and pundits, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=148127 2:14:00 What are the biggest cultural differences between Australia and America?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159796 2:18:00 In 2010, I told a friend that I wanted Dennis Prager to run the universe, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159786 2:30:30 What's with Joe Rogan hosting anti-Jewish guests recently?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159780 2:32:00 What is Tucker Carlson's attitude towards Jews?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159778 2:33:45 Is John Podhoretz the greatest magazine editor in America today?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159775 2:35:00 What are the chances that Amy Wax wins her lawsuit against her university?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159773 2:38:00 What are the chances that Nathan Cofnas wins his lawsuit?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159771 2:51:00 Decoding Trump's charisma, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159765 2:53:00 What are the chances that America takes over Canada in the next 10 years?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159769 2:56:00 Is Trump threatening Canada because he believes it has been taken over by China?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159757 2:58:00 When will Trump's mania break?, https://lukeford.net/blog/?p=159755 3:00:50 Michael Wolff — All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5JzL0AJ778 3:06:30 What drives reality TV? Conflict, conflict, conflict! 3:07:50 Most politicians are boring, Trump is not boring 3:09:50 Trump & Putin understand each other, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLiIzTpkCBU 3:11:30 Has China bought Canada and does that underlay Trump's animus to Canada? 3:17:00 The norm of the United States is breaking norms 3:26:15 Republicans have stories that tap into core American feelings, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjU-Nd6iiQ4 3:34:50 American combat casualties are white southern men, a continuation of the English Civil War, https://anncoulter.substack.com/p/video-my-interview-with-erik-prince 3:36:40 The trans antifa connection, https://anncoulter.substack.com/p/video-my-interview-with-andy-ngo 3:40:45 Defund the police has lost support 3:41:10 Elon shut down violent Antifa posters that the previous Twitter regime protected 3:42:50 The Sound of Cinema: Ennio Morricone & Cinema Paradiso (Cormac)

This is CrossPoliticNews’ Weekly Roundup sponsored by Christian Business Leaders Network. If you want to find out more about this network and its efforts to connect Christian business leaders so that they can more effectively help their businesses and shape culture, visit businessmakers.network. Again, that’s businessmakers.network. Recently, our reporter David Fowler wrote about the legislation efforts in Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Missouri to enact “covenant marriage license laws” (www.crosspoliticnews.com/news/tony-perkins-and-homosexual-covenant-marriages). in their respective states. When you first look at it, this seems like a good thing. Wouldn’t these covenant marriage license laws help our country return to a more Christian understanding of the world? We’re commanded to spread Christianity in our country and in the world, but this is actually not the way to do it. This isn’t the way to do it because these license laws place the authority of marriage beneath the state’s standard and give the government a power over marriage that it shouldn’t have. It’s not an issue of the government enacting good or bad laws, but of whether the state even has the power and ability to make laws that will give them a defining control over marriage. David Fowler foresaw this in 1998. And then, in 2015, the Obergefell versus Hodges case showed that he was right. In the Obergefell case, there were five justices in the Supreme Court who agreed that marriage is personal, and that civil law could create one type of marriage just as easily as another.In other words, the government could declare homosexual relationships as “civil marriage” because they had the power to define what it could look like. But while we want to keep this power away from the government, we also want governments to preserve a biblical view of marriage. So, how can we do this?Our journalist David Fowler recommends that we require the government to recognize but not administer marriages. When a man and woman would get married, the government would have to, “give notice to the public of their already existing marital relationship.” If we did this, then the standard and definition of marriage would properly be outside the state's control.So, we shouldn’t want the government to enact covenant marriage license laws, but we should have it recognize marriages rightly and biblically understood. After all, if the state doesn’t recognize its proper place, then the covenant marriage license laws could also be easily exploited by the liberals. On a different topic, our journalist Jonathan Kelly wrote about the case of Navy pilot and reservist Michael Cassidy, the man who tore down the Satanic statue that stood in the State Capital of Iowa. Cassidy had turned himself in after destroying the statue, and “pleaded guilty to misdemeanor vandalism but maintained that his actions were not extremist, violent, or a violation of military conduct standards" (www.crosspoliticnews.com/news/navy-clears-michael-cassidy-rejects-extremism-charges-over-satanic-statue-incident). His attorney argued against the bias towards Christians in the military, and he also brought up the larger issue of Satanic statues in our culture because Cassidy’s actions to both Florida and Iowa voting no against installing more of these statues.Cassidy’s boldness not only tore down that one statue then, but it also prevented others from being erected. Returning to Cassidy’s attorney, though, he said that Christians have effectively been told to be quiet, compliant, and secret with their faith. As we can see, Cassidy’s actions have thankfully challenged this mainstream, unbiblical expectation. Christians should thank God that Cassidy has won his case, even we don’t know yet if the Navy leadership will allow him to be completely reinstated into the Navy. To discover more news, check out some of our other articles, such as Bridge-Building Apologetics With Lindsey Medenwaldt by our journalist Esther Elliott, or Tier List: Trump’s Greatest Moments by our reporter Luke Edison, or even The Oscars and the Moral Confusion of Hollywood by our journalist Wes Walker. Here at CrossPoliticNews, we want to faithfully deliver you unbiased news from a Christian worldview. For more content, you can find us on YouTube at CrossPolitic News, follow us on X at cpnewsusa or cpnewsaus in Australia, or head to our email list and find us at CrossPoliticNews.com.

This is CrossPoliticNews’ Weekly Roundup sponsored by Christian Business Leaders Network. If you want to find out more about this network and its efforts to connect Christian business leaders so that they can more effectively help their businesses and shape culture, visit businessmakers.network. Again, that’s businessmakers.network. Recently, our reporter David Fowler wrote about the legislation efforts in Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Missouri to enact “covenant marriage license laws” (www.crosspoliticnews.com/news/tony-perkins-and-homosexual-covenant-marriages). in their respective states. When you first look at it, this seems like a good thing. Wouldn’t these covenant marriage license laws help our country return to a more Christian understanding of the world? We’re commanded to spread Christianity in our country and in the world, but this is actually not the way to do it. This isn’t the way to do it because these license laws place the authority of marriage beneath the state’s standard and give the government a power over marriage that it shouldn’t have. It’s not an issue of the government enacting good or bad laws, but of whether the state even has the power and ability to make laws that will give them a defining control over marriage. David Fowler foresaw this in 1998. And then, in 2015, the Obergefell versus Hodges case showed that he was right. In the Obergefell case, there were five justices in the Supreme Court who agreed that marriage is personal, and that civil law could create one type of marriage just as easily as another.In other words, the government could declare homosexual relationships as “civil marriage” because they had the power to define what it could look like. But while we want to keep this power away from the government, we also want governments to preserve a biblical view of marriage. So, how can we do this?Our journalist David Fowler recommends that we require the government to recognize but not administer marriages. When a man and woman would get married, the government would have to, “give notice to the public of their already existing marital relationship.” If we did this, then the standard and definition of marriage would properly be outside the state's control.So, we shouldn’t want the government to enact covenant marriage license laws, but we should have it recognize marriages rightly and biblically understood. After all, if the state doesn’t recognize its proper place, then the covenant marriage license laws could also be easily exploited by the liberals. On a different topic, our journalist Jonathan Kelly wrote about the case of Navy pilot and reservist Michael Cassidy, the man who tore down the Satanic statue that stood in the State Capital of Iowa. Cassidy had turned himself in after destroying the statue, and “pleaded guilty to misdemeanor vandalism but maintained that his actions were not extremist, violent, or a violation of military conduct standards" (www.crosspoliticnews.com/news/navy-clears-michael-cassidy-rejects-extremism-charges-over-satanic-statue-incident). His attorney argued against the bias towards Christians in the military, and he also brought up the larger issue of Satanic statues in our culture because Cassidy’s actions to both Florida and Iowa voting no against installing more of these statues.Cassidy’s boldness not only tore down that one statue then, but it also prevented others from being erected. Returning to Cassidy’s attorney, though, he said that Christians have effectively been told to be quiet, compliant, and secret with their faith. As we can see, Cassidy’s actions have thankfully challenged this mainstream, unbiblical expectation. Christians should thank God that Cassidy has won his case, even we don’t know yet if the Navy leadership will allow him to be completely reinstated into the Navy. To discover more news, check out some of our other articles, such as Bridge-Building Apologetics With Lindsey Medenwaldt by our journalist Esther Elliott, or Tier List: Trump’s Greatest Moments by our reporter Luke Edison, or even The Oscars and the Moral Confusion of Hollywood by our journalist Wes Walker. Here at CrossPoliticNews, we want to faithfully deliver you unbiased news from a Christian worldview. For more content, you can find us on YouTube at CrossPolitic News, follow us on X at cpnewsusa or cpnewsaus in Australia, or head to our email list and find us at CrossPoliticNews.com.

This is CrossPoliticNews’ Weekly Roundup sponsored by Christian Business Leaders Network. If you want to find out more about this network and its efforts to connect Christian business leaders so that they can more effectively help their businesses and shape culture, visit businessmakers.network. Again, that’s businessmakers.network. Recently, our reporter David Fowler wrote about the legislation efforts in Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Missouri to enact “covenant marriage license laws” (www.crosspoliticnews.com/news/tony-perkins-and-homosexual-covenant-marriages). in their respective states. When you first look at it, this seems like a good thing. Wouldn’t these covenant marriage license laws help our country return to a more Christian understanding of the world? We’re commanded to spread Christianity in our country and in the world, but this is actually not the way to do it. This isn’t the way to do it because these license laws place the authority of marriage beneath the state’s standard and give the government a power over marriage that it shouldn’t have. It’s not an issue of the government enacting good or bad laws, but of whether the state even has the power and ability to make laws that will give them a defining control over marriage. David Fowler foresaw this in 1998. And then, in 2015, the Obergefell versus Hodges case showed that he was right. In the Obergefell case, there were five justices in the Supreme Court who agreed that marriage is personal, and that civil law could create one type of marriage just as easily as another.In other words, the government could declare homosexual relationships as “civil marriage” because they had the power to define what it could look like. But while we want to keep this power away from the government, we also want governments to preserve a biblical view of marriage. So, how can we do this?Our journalist David Fowler recommends that we require the government to recognize but not administer marriages. When a man and woman would get married, the government would have to, “give notice to the public of their already existing marital relationship.” If we did this, then the standard and definition of marriage would properly be outside the state's control.So, we shouldn’t want the government to enact covenant marriage license laws, but we should have it recognize marriages rightly and biblically understood. After all, if the state doesn’t recognize its proper place, then the covenant marriage license laws could also be easily exploited by the liberals. On a different topic, our journalist Jonathan Kelly wrote about the case of Navy pilot and reservist Michael Cassidy, the man who tore down the Satanic statue that stood in the State Capital of Iowa. Cassidy had turned himself in after destroying the statue, and “pleaded guilty to misdemeanor vandalism but maintained that his actions were not extremist, violent, or a violation of military conduct standards" (www.crosspoliticnews.com/news/navy-clears-michael-cassidy-rejects-extremism-charges-over-satanic-statue-incident). His attorney argued against the bias towards Christians in the military, and he also brought up the larger issue of Satanic statues in our culture because Cassidy’s actions to both Florida and Iowa voting no against installing more of these statues.Cassidy’s boldness not only tore down that one statue then, but it also prevented others from being erected. Returning to Cassidy’s attorney, though, he said that Christians have effectively been told to be quiet, compliant, and secret with their faith. As we can see, Cassidy’s actions have thankfully challenged this mainstream, unbiblical expectation. Christians should thank God that Cassidy has won his case, even we don’t know yet if the Navy leadership will allow him to be completely reinstated into the Navy. To discover more news, check out some of our other articles, such as Bridge-Building Apologetics With Lindsey Medenwaldt by our journalist Esther Elliott, or Tier List: Trump’s Greatest Moments by our reporter Luke Edison, or even The Oscars and the Moral Confusion of Hollywood by our journalist Wes Walker. Here at CrossPoliticNews, we want to faithfully deliver you unbiased news from a Christian worldview. For more content, you can find us on YouTube at CrossPolitic News, follow us on X at cpnewsusa or cpnewsaus in Australia, or head to our email list and find us at CrossPoliticNews.com.

Are you curious about the emotional rollercoaster of fostering and adopting as an out gay family? Merry Elkins and Cathy Worthington sit down with Lane Igoudin, author of "A Family, Maybe." Lane shares his poignant journey of fostering and adopting multicultural children, diving deep into the complexities faced by LGBTQ families. Hear Lane read the first chapter of his memoir, capturing the heart-stopping moment he and his partner Jonathan welcomed a newborn with a complex background into their lives. Discover why they chose fostering over other options and how it impacted their relationship. Lane candidly discusses the cultural dynamics within their family and the broader social and political challenges surrounding adoption rights. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of love, resilience, and advocacy. Tune in for insights and inspiration!Lane's BioLane Igoudin, Ph.D., is the author of A Family, Maybe, a life-changing journey through foster adoptions to fatherhood (Ooligan Press, Portland State University, 2024). He has written extensively on adoption, parenting, and other issues for Adoption.com, Forward, Jewish Journal, and Parabola and spoken about his book on NBC's “Daytime” show, syndicated radio shows, literary and parenting podcasts, as well as live audiences on his 12-stop book tour. A Family, Maybe received endorsements from US Congressman Alan Lowenthal, California Senator Sheila Kuehl, bestselling writers like Janet Fitch and Greta Boris, parenting experts and social work professionals. Lane is professor of English and linguistics at Los Angeles City College.Connect with LaneWebsite: www.laneigoudin.comEmail: laneigoudin@gmail.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/lane.igoudin/Instagram: @laneigoudin

Guest: Mat StaverOrganization: Liberty CounselPosition: Founder & ChairmanTopic: a review of events leading up to the defeat of the Florida abortion amendment + update on cases involving Kim Davis, the KY clerk who would not issue same-sex marriage licenses after the Obergefell decisionInterview Location: 2025 National Religious Broadcasters Convention in DallasWebsite: lc.org

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comJon and I go way back to the early days of the marriage movement. He's currently a senior fellow at Brookings and a contributor editor at The Atlantic. He's the author of many books, including Kindly Inquisitors, The Happiness Curve, and The Constitution of Knowledge — which we discussed on the Dishcast in 2021. His new book is Cross Purposes: Christianity's Broken Bargain with Democracy.For two clips of our convo — on fear-based Christianity, and the growing tolerance of gays by the Mormon Church — see our YouTube page.Other topics: how Jon tried to believe in God growing up; his Christian roommate in college, Rev. Mark McIntosh; how I kept my faith through AIDS crisis; the doubt within faith; Fr. James Alison; parallels between Christianity and liberal democracy; the Reformation; Locke's Letter Concerning Toleration; Christ's aversion to property; church/state; the federal persecution of Mormons in the 19th century; American Primeval; Vatican II; Catholic toleration of divorce but not homosexuality; Anita Bryant; Prop 8; the gay wedding cake controversy; wokeness as a religion; Biden's DEI as a kind of religious indoctrination; left-wing Christianity; Bishop Budde; her shrine to Matthew Shepard; the Benedict Option; the Utah Compromise; whether the LDS is truly Christian; the Respect For Marriage Act; Dobbs and Obergefell; authoritarianism abroad; the J6 pardons; Trump firing IGs; Don Jr against “turning the other cheek”; Pope Francis against proselytism; eternal truths vs. political compromise; declining church attendance; and the loss of enchantment in Christianity.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy (the first 102 are free in their entirety — subscribe to get everything else). Coming up: Evan Wolfson on the history of marriage equality, Yoni Appelbaum on how America stopped building things, Chris Caldwell on the political revolution in Europe, Nick Denton on China and AI, Francis Collins on faith and science, Ian Buruma on Spinoza, Michael Joseph Gross on muscles, and the great and powerful Mike White, of White Lotus fame. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.

Today, we're diving into a big question: Is marriage equality in peril? Spoiler alert: it's a bit of a rollercoaster, but we've got Evan Wolfson on the mic, and he's here to break it all down. Evan's not just any guest; he's a legend in the fight for marriage equality, and he's got the inside scoop on what's at stake for the LGBTQ community right now. We chat about the progress we've made, the challenges that lie ahead, and how important it is to stay engaged and hopeful. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let's get into this important convo that's all about love, rights, and a brighter future!In the latest episode of Where Do Gays Retire?, we take a compelling look at the intersection of LGBTQ rights and the pressing question of marriage equality. Our host Mark Goldstein sits down with none other than Evan Wolfson, a pioneer in the marriage equality movement. As they navigate through the current political landscape, it becomes clear that while we've made significant strides, there are still shadows lurking. Wolfson reflects on his early days as an activist and the fierce battles fought to secure the rights we have today. He doesn't shy away from discussing the challenges that lie ahead, especially in light of recent threats to these hard-won liberties. Listeners will find themselves armed with knowledge about the historical context of marriage rights, the significance of the Obergefell decision, and the urgent need for continued activism. This episode serves as a rallying cry for the community, encouraging everyone to stay engaged and hopeful as we continue to fight for equality and safety in our retirement years. Mark and Evan remind us that the power of love and commitment is resilient, and together, we can create a future where everyone can retire with dignity and joy.Takeaways: Evan Wolfson's journey in advocating for marriage equality spans over three decades, starting from his law school thesis in 1983. The 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision marked a historic victory, legalizing same-sex marriage across the U.S. and changing countless lives. Wolfson emphasizes that while the fight for equality continues, there are solid protections in place, like the Respect for Marriage Act. Engagement and activism are crucial; we can't just sit back and hope for progress, we must actively participate. The LGBTQ+ community has made incredible strides, now 39 countries recognize marriage equality, showcasing the power of perseverance. Wolfson encourages everyone to stay hopeful and engaged, as collective action can lead to significant change over time. Links referenced in this episode:wheredogaysretire.comfreedomtomarry.orgCompanies mentioned in this episode: Freedom to Marry Lambda Legal GLAD ACLU National Center for Lesbian Rights Stand Up America Indivisible Protect America

Today, we're diving into a big question: Is marriage equality in peril? Spoiler alert: it's a bit of a rollercoaster, but we've got Evan Wolfson on the mic, and he's here to break it all down. Evan's not just any guest; he's a legend in the fight for marriage equality, and he's got the inside scoop on what's at stake for the LGBTQ community right now. We chat about the progress we've made, the challenges that lie ahead, and how important it is to stay engaged and hopeful. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let's get into this important convo that's all about love, rights, and a brighter future!In the latest episode of Where Do Gays Retire?, we take a compelling look at the intersection of LGBTQ rights and the pressing question of marriage equality. Our host Mark Goldstein sits down with none other than Evan Wolfson, a pioneer in the marriage equality movement. As they navigate through the current political landscape, it becomes clear that while we've made significant strides, there are still shadows lurking. Wolfson reflects on his early days as an activist and the fierce battles fought to secure the rights we have today. He doesn't shy away from discussing the challenges that lie ahead, especially in light of recent threats to these hard-won liberties. Listeners will find themselves armed with knowledge about the historical context of marriage rights, the significance of the Obergefell decision, and the urgent need for continued activism. This episode serves as a rallying cry for the community, encouraging everyone to stay engaged and hopeful as we continue to fight for equality and safety in our retirement years. Mark and Evan remind us that the power of love and commitment is resilient, and together, we can create a future where everyone can retire with dignity and joy.Takeaways: Evan Wolfson's journey in advocating for marriage equality spans over three decades, starting from his law school thesis in 1983. The 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision marked a historic victory, legalizing same-sex marriage across the U.S. and changing countless lives. Wolfson emphasizes that while the fight for equality continues, there are solid protections in place, like the Respect for Marriage Act. Engagement and activism are crucial; we can't just sit back and hope for progress, we must actively participate. The LGBTQ+ community has made incredible strides, now 39 countries recognize marriage equality, showcasing the power of perseverance. Wolfson encourages everyone to stay hopeful and engaged, as collective action can lead to significant change over time. Links referenced in this episode:wheredogaysretire.comfreedomtomarry.orgCompanies mentioned in this episode: Freedom to Marry Lambda Legal GLAD ACLU National Center for Lesbian Rights Stand Up America Indivisible Protect America

Nearly ten years after the Obergefell v. Hodges decision, the LGBT agenda has turned its attention toward the legalization of polyamory.

This case could eventually bring down the Supreme Court's marriage opinion that has no basis in the Constitution. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

This conversation revisits the issues that launched the original "Speaking the Truth in Love Conference" nearly a decade ago: gender, marriage, and sexuality. Pastor Richard Caldwell and Dr. Josh Philpott reflect on how the 2016 Obergefell decision impacted local churches, prompting them to clarify their constitutions and bylaws. They examine cultural shifts, including the rise of transgender activism and new interpretations of biblical terms, underscoring why Scripture must remain the Church's unwavering authority. They conclude by inviting listeners to the upcoming conference, urging believers to hold steadfastly to God's design.

This conversation revisits the issues that launched the original "Speaking the Truth in Love Conference" nearly a decade ago: gender, marriage, and sexuality. Pastor Richard Caldwell and Dr. Josh Philpott reflect on how the 2016 Obergefell decision impacted local churches, prompting them to clarify their constitutions and bylaws. They examine cultural shifts, including the rise of transgender activism and new interpretations of biblical terms, underscoring why Scripture must remain the Church's unwavering authority. They conclude by inviting listeners to the upcoming conference, urging believers to hold steadfastly to God's design.

Constitutional Law lecture 3 focuses on individual rights, encompassing First Amendment freedoms (speech, press, religion), due process, equal protection, and landmark Supreme Court cases. First Amendment Freedoms: Speech is categorized as protected or unprotected, with the Brandenburg test determining incitement. Religious freedom includes the Establishment and Free Exercise Clauses. Due Process and Equal Protection: The Fourteenth Amendment guarantees due process (procedural and substantive) and equal protection, with varying levels of judicial scrutiny applied to different classifications. Landmark Cases: Cases like Brown vs Board of Education, Obergefell vs Hodges, and Citizens United vs FEC illustrate the evolution of individual rights interpretation. Understanding these principles is crucial for the bar exam and legal practice.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comAnderson doesn't need an introduction, but he's a broadcast journalist who has anchored Anderson Cooper 360° for more than two decades. He's also a correspondent for 60 Minutes and the host of a podcast centered on grief, “All There Is.” He invited me on the pod after the death of my mother this summer, and this Dishcast episode is the extended version of our conversation, which covers my experience of the AIDS crisis and the deaths of my parents and my beagle, Bowie. I was not expecting to talk about my AIDS memories, so forgive me for some choking up.For three clips of our convo — on Anderson losing his brother to suicide, how he coped by seeking out warzones, and coming out of the closet on the Dish — head over to our YouTube page.Other topics: the two of us meeting at the downtown DC YMCA three decades ago; Anderson reading passages from my 1990 piece “Gay Life, Gay Death”'; my best friend Patrick who died of AIDS; my HIV diagnosis in 1993 that derailed my Green Card; my constant fear of deportation; the medieval tortures of AIDS; my photographer friend going blind; the program that paired gay men with patients; the men outed to their parents by AIDS; the deeper closet that black men faced; patients being pariahs among other gays; the partners excluded from hospitals and funerals; the clinical depression I fell into after HIV meds saved my life; my brief thought that God might be evil; how my faith sustained me; survivor's guilt; the survivors who escaped into meth; the happy-sad music of Pet Shop Boys; the AIDS quilt and Roy Cohn; the gallows humor of Diseased Pariah News; the amnesia around the plague; Virtually Normal; throwing myself into the marriage fight; the queer activists who opposed that fight; speaking at churches; ACT-UP's rage; the suffering of Christ; Obergefell; the ordeal of my 10-day silent meditation; Anderson losing his father at age 10 and closing down; his mother's struggle with alcohol; the last time he saw his brother alive; the taboo of talking about death; putting seniors in nursing homes; the decline of religion; Camus; my mom's mental illness; my parents' contentious marriage; their divorce after 49.5 years; losing my dad to a ghastly accident in early Covid; my mom's dementia; her prolonged and agonizing death; the mixed blessing of being so close to her; the heroic sacrifices of my sister; the death of Bowie; the power of venting grief; the powerful act of simply being present with mourners; Anderson's worries about his gay status reporting in dangerous places; a gay photographer killed by a mob in Somalia; and helping Tim Cook out of the closet.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy (the first 102 are free in their entirety — subscribe to get everything else). Coming up: Reihan Salam on the evolution of the GOP, John Gray on the state of liberal democracy, David Greenberg on his new bio of John Lewis, Christine Rosen on humanness in a digital world, and Mary Matalin on anything but politics. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.

The people voted on Tuesday for their choice of candidates and in many states they also voted on Ballot measures or ballot initiatives. Ballot measures offer voters a way to participate in direct democracy and can be a powerful tool for change. On this episode, we will discuss some of the ballot measures that were up for a vote in 2024 and the results.  As regular listeners will know ballot measures, initiatives, propositions, or bond measures are lobbying. Although they are on the ballot, they are lobbying activity and voters are the lawmakers. Many nonprofits, both c3 public charities and c4 social welfare organizations participate in ballot measure advocacy within their lobbying limits.     Today we are going to discuss what happened – what did voters decide when it came to the issues of choice, democracy, LGBTQ rights, and worker protections. We are traveling across this nation from ME to OH – to FL, then head west AZ and CA, CO, and HI, and finally NE, to learn what voters decided.    Lawyers for this episode  Sarah  Melissa  Susan  Show notes  LGBTQ Ballot Measures   Thanks! I would like to start us off by lifting up a number of ballot measure victories in the LGBTQ space.   We frequently talk about litigation as an impactful, non-lobbying, form of advocacy. In fact, we had a recent pod episode on that very topic. Well, there were several ballot measures that were introduced to get ahead of potential litigation – specifically cases that might threaten the right to marry.  Here, I want to highlight how voters in CA, CO, and HI used their ballots to approve constitutional amendments that will enshrine the Freedom to Marry into their state constitutions.   Although the 2015 Obergefell decision has made state laws banning same sex marriage moot, lessons learned from the Dobbs decision overturning abortion rights; the proactive, legislatively referred measures are intended to safeguard their states' freedom to marry if a conservative-majority U.S. Supreme Court were to overturn existing protections  likely that these 3 ballot measures are the first in a wave of proactive measures to fend off (or respond to) any such attacks by a conservative-majority court      Reproductive Rights Ballot Measures  Voters in seven states approved ballot measures to enshrine reproductive rights in their state constitutions, including in two states with abortion bans.  Missouri Amendment 3 establishes a constitutional right to reproductive freedom, which is defined as "the right to make and carry out decisions about all matters relating to reproductive health care,” including but not limited to childbirth, birth control, and abortion care. The amendment also provides that the state may only enact laws regulating abortion after the point of fetal viability.   Similar abortion rights measures failed in Florida, South Dakota, and Nebraska. 57% of Floridian voters supported their state's right to abortion measure, but Florida requires at least 60% of voters to support a constitutional amendment for it to succeed, which is a uniquely high bar.  Arizona Proposition 139 amends the state constitution to guarantee a right to abortion and prohibits the state from restricting this right before fetal viability.   San Francisco Proposition O establishes several local requirements that help to protect access to abortion and other forms of reproductive health care.   Amarillo, Texas Proposition A, a so-called “abortion travel ban” initiative, was rejected by the city's voters. Local businesses, organizations, and residents formed the Amarillo Reproductive Freedom Alliance to oppose the measure and protect reproductive freedom in the Texas Panhandle.     Thanks Melissa, I can. In many states there were issues on the ballot that concerned democracy and constitutional rights.   First stop - Ohio, Issue 1, its aim was to create a 15 member redistricting commission, made up of citizens across the political parties and ensuring representation from different areas of the state.   Unfortunately this initiative failed. There was a lot of confusion surrounding this ballot measure. Many believed that the ballot language, which the Republican controlled ballot board wrote – was misleading and biased. Conservatives in the state are opposed to redistricting reform.   The campaign for Issue 1, called Citizens not Politicians, took the issue to State supreme court, which sided with the Ballot board. The actual proposal by Citizens not Politicians was to ban partisan gerrymandering  - and the ballot board's language stated it would require gerrymandering.   So much so that Both sides, pro and con – were using the same slogan to get out the vote. I was in Ohio, my home state, before the election and I saw yard signs that said - stop gerrymandering by voting yes and I saw signs that said - stop gerrymandering by voting no.   Let's go to Arizona where voters defeated three measures that would have taken away their voice in the democratic process. One on the election of judges and two on the ballot initiative process.   First, voters weighed in on Proposition 137. This Ballot measure concerned the election of state court judges, a yes vote would end term limits for judges. A judge would have a permanent appointment until age 70.  judges permanent appointments. Currently, State supreme court justices are limited to six-year terms and superior court judges are subject to 4 year terms. They must run for reelection. This proposition was rejected by voters – they voted to keep term limits for their justices. So, these judges will be accountable to voters when they run for reelection.     Prop 134, which would changed the signature requirement in order for a measure to qualify for the ballot.  It would essentially make it more difficult. Currently, the Arizona state constitution requires 15% of the number of voters in the last election. So if 1 million people voted in the last governors race, a ballot measure would need at least 150,000 signatures in order to qualify. There is no restrictions or requirements on where in the state the signer lives.   Prop 134 would made it more difficult by requiring so many signatures to come from each legislative district in the state.   Prop 136 – would have allowed opponents to a ballot measure to challenge any ballot measure before it went to the voters. Opponents could have engaged in costly legal battles, perhaps killing it before voters even got a chance to decide.   Fortunately, both these measures were rejected by the voters.     Did you know that slavery in some form is still part of some state constitutions?   Both California and Nevada proposed ballot measures to remove language in their state constitutions permitting involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime. Voters in Nevada passed Question 4, joining eight other states that have passed ballot measures to abolish slavery in prisons in recent years.   A similar proposal in California, Proposition 6, at the time of this recording has not yet been called. If it passes, it would prohibit prisons from punishing incarcerated people through involuntary servitude.    Lastly in Maine Question 5 – asked the question should Maine change its current state flag back to an historical version known as the Pine Tree flag, a simple pine tree with one star in the corner.  Voters said no.       Finally, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention the ballot measure victory in Nebraska that will provide workers with paid sick leave.  NE voters overwhelmingly passed Initiative 436, which will require employers to provide 1 hour of paid sick leave for every hour worked  According to the initiative's campaign, over 250K Nebraskans currently lack paid sick leave. More than 1/3 full time and more than ¾ part-time employees  Initiative was supported by business community – recognizing that providing paid sick leave increases productivity, recruitment and lowers turnover  Example of organizations that supports workers' rights joining forces with members of the business community to effect positive policy change  Important to note here that Nebraska was joined by voters in Alaska and Missouri (all traditionally solid Republican states) in passing these progressive pro-worker policies.    This is proof that there are so many issues, legislative ideas and progress that can be made through initiative process, from equality to repro rights to democracy to flag choice.   Reminders and Resources   Ballot measure advocacy is a great way to support your organization's mission by educating the public on the issues, building coalitions with other community groups, and making change.   The IRS considers supporting or opposing ballot measures a form of lobbying. Most states and some localities regulate ballot measure activities under their campaign finance law. Campaign finance rules may require registration and/or reporting if certain triggers or thresholds are met.  We have several ballot measure resources you can check out at afj.org, including our full-length guide, Seize the Initiative, and a number of state-specific resources, too. We also have resources to help you navigate the laws related to other forms of advocacy, such as post-election and transition advocacy, and assess your advocacy capacity as you make your action plan for next year. Check out our recently released advocacy playbook series for more information about the many types of c3-safe advocacy and examples that are specifically tailored for different issues.   Resources  Seize the Initiative: A Legal Guide on Ballot Measures for Nonprofits and Foundations  Episode 58: Ballot Measures Revisited  The Advocacy Playbook Series  Can We Say That? Post-Election Advocacy for 501(c)(3) Organizations   Preparing for Change: How Nonprofits Can Shape Policy By Engaging Transition Teams  The Ballot Initiative Strategy Center Ballot Measure Hub   

Former Rowan County Kentucky Clerk Kim Davis deserves justice since she was entitled to a religious accommodation. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

“Prosecutors elicited perjury and a man's gonna go to his death. We can't allow that to happen.” – Paul Clement, October 9th, 2024.  This week the US Supreme Court heard arguments in the latest chapter in the complex and prolonged legal battle involving Richard Glossip, who has been on Oklahoma's death row since his conviction for a 1997 murder-for-hire. Following two independent investigations into allegations of prosecutorial misconduct, suppression of material evidence, and a history of inadequate defense counsel, Oklahoma's Attorney General took the bold step of confessing to constitutional error in the case and supporting a new trial. But Oklahoma's State Supreme Court is pressing on with Glossip's execution, and so, on Wednesday morning, the High Court heard a case long on the appearance of process and short on actual justice. Don Knight, Richard Glossip's attorney of almost 10 years, provides insights into the flawed process, and the shocking revelations from newly discovered evidence boxes. This case highlights broader questions about justice, fairness, and trust in the American legal system…. Leading us to an update from the latest inductee to the Lady Justice Hall of Fame – Amicus listener Barbara Hausman-Smith, and her one-woman protest at One First Street. Listen to the end of the show to find out what links this 76-year-old grandmother from Maine to the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and SCOTUS's landmark decision to legalize equal marriage in Obergefell in 2015.  Want more Amicus? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes with exclusive legal analysis. Plus, you'll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Amicus show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/amicusplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Prosecutors elicited perjury and a man's gonna go to his death. We can't allow that to happen.” – Paul Clement, October 9th, 2024.  This week the US Supreme Court heard arguments in the latest chapter in the complex and prolonged legal battle involving Richard Glossip, who has been on Oklahoma's death row since his conviction for a 1997 murder-for-hire. Following two independent investigations into allegations of prosecutorial misconduct, suppression of material evidence, and a history of inadequate defense counsel, Oklahoma's Attorney General took the bold step of confessing to constitutional error in the case and supporting a new trial. But Oklahoma's State Supreme Court is pressing on with Glossip's execution, and so, on Wednesday morning, the High Court heard a case long on the appearance of process and short on actual justice. Don Knight, Richard Glossip's attorney of almost 10 years, provides insights into the flawed process, and the shocking revelations from newly discovered evidence boxes. This case highlights broader questions about justice, fairness, and trust in the American legal system…. Leading us to an update from the latest inductee to the Lady Justice Hall of Fame – Amicus listener Barbara Hausman-Smith, and her one-woman protest at One First Street. Listen to the end of the show to find out what links this 76-year-old grandmother from Maine to the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and SCOTUS's landmark decision to legalize equal marriage in Obergefell in 2015.  Want more Amicus? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes with exclusive legal analysis. Plus, you'll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Amicus show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/amicusplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Prosecutors elicited perjury and a man's gonna go to his death. We can't allow that to happen.” – Paul Clement, October 9th, 2024.  This week the US Supreme Court heard arguments in the latest chapter in the complex and prolonged legal battle involving Richard Glossip, who has been on Oklahoma's death row since his conviction for a 1997 murder-for-hire. Following two independent investigations into allegations of prosecutorial misconduct, suppression of material evidence, and a history of inadequate defense counsel, Oklahoma's Attorney General took the bold step of confessing to constitutional error in the case and supporting a new trial. But Oklahoma's State Supreme Court is pressing on with Glossip's execution, and so, on Wednesday morning, the High Court heard a case long on the appearance of process and short on actual justice. Don Knight, Richard Glossip's attorney of almost 10 years, provides insights into the flawed process, and the shocking revelations from newly discovered evidence boxes. This case highlights broader questions about justice, fairness, and trust in the American legal system…. Leading us to an update from the latest inductee to the Lady Justice Hall of Fame – Amicus listener Barbara Hausman-Smith, and her one-woman protest at One First Street. Listen to the end of the show to find out what links this 76-year-old grandmother from Maine to the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and SCOTUS's landmark decision to legalize equal marriage in Obergefell in 2015.  Want more Amicus? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes with exclusive legal analysis. Plus, you'll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Amicus show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/amicusplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the 3rd episode of Made It Out (to the polls), Mal sits down with Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin to discuss her incredible work for LGBTQ rights, specifically The Respect For Marriage Act. This episode explains the history of same-sex marriage as well as the threats posed to Obergefell by the current makeup of the Supreme Court and another Trump presidency - it also includes many fun cameos to explain political concepts including: Alix Traeger, Zoya Biglary, Hina and Zolita! Follow our guest @tammybaldwinwi and follow LPAC @teamLPAC. Make a donation to Tammy or LPAC at https://www.teamlpac.com We want Made It Out (to the polls) to be a safe, collaborative and engaged space where we can all discuss so we invite conversation in the comments but, as always, we ask that you do so with care. This series is a collaborative project between Made It Out Media and LPAC, and was produced by Mathilde Jourdan, Jacqueline Toboni and Michelle Atwood. Thank you for watching!! For all other inquiries, please email madeitout@mgmt-entertainment.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This case has the potential to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

This case has the potential to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges and extend the same religious freedom protections beyond Kentucky to the entire nation. Constitutional expert, lawyer, author, pastor, and founder of Liberty Counsel Mat Staver discusses the important topics of the day with co-hosts and guests that impact life, liberty, and family. To stay informed and get involved, visit LC.org.

In this episode of In the Public Interest, co-host Felicia Ellsworth is joined by WilmerHale Partner Lee Greenfield to discuss the Supreme Court's recent decision in Department of State v. Muñoz. The case concerns the due process rights of US citizens if their non-citizen spouses are denied entrance to the country and what impact this has on the right to marriage. Ellsworth and Greenfield cover the origins of the case and how it evolved from a lawsuit pertaining to the Fifth Amendment rights of an individual plaintiff, Sandra Muñoz, into a larger conversation around the right to marriage as defined in cases such as Obergefell v. Hodges. Greenfield lends an added perspective from his direct involvement with the case, explaining how he came to file an amicus brief on behalf of 35 members of Congress in support of Muñoz.This episode is the latest installment of our miniseries examining notable decisions recently issued by the US Supreme Court. Previous episodes covering this year's term looked at the decisions in cases including Cantero v. Bank of America, Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the NAACP and Securities and Exchange Commission v. Jarkesy.

It's Friday, August 2nd, A.D. 2024. This is The World View in 5 Minutes written by Kevin Swanson and heard at www.TheWorldView.com.  Filling in for Adam McManus I'm Ean Leppin. Liberty Counsel Represents Kim Davis Liberty Counsel is taking hits for representing Kentucky County Clerk Kim Davis' religious liberty case at the 6th Circuit Court Appeals. At issue is the Liberty Counsel's challenge of the 2015 Obergefell decision and a potential reversal, in favor of religious liberty. Kim and her husband, as well as Liberty Counsel have been subjected to multiple, serious death threats. Liberty Counsel President Mat Staver released a statement Monday, noting that “Anyone who stands up to the hateful agenda of the LGBTQ Mafia is demonized. .   .. the LGBTQ left will not tolerate religious freedom and wants to destroy anyone who disagrees.” Biden Administration Announces Plea Deal with 9/11 Conspirators The Biden administration Department of Justice has announced a plea deal with alleged conspirators of the 9/11 attacks, which occurred 23 years ago. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, Walid Bin ‘Attash, and Mustafa al Hawsawi will plead guilty to conspiracy and murder charges, but will not face the death penalty for the murders of 2,977 people on September 11, 2001. Senator JD Vance commenting on the deal told an audience yesterday, “"We need a president who kills terrorists, not negotiates with them.” And Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, called the decision “unthinkable” and a “slap in the face” for families of those murdered by the terrorists. God said, “Whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man.” (Gen. 9:6) 60% of Americans Support Death Penalty 60% of Americans support the death penalty. There were 23 executions in the US last year down from 98 in 1999. The US Homicide rate has also increased since 2014, from 4.7 per 100,000, to 6.0 per 100,000 persons in 2023, which accounts for over 20,000 murders. Keep in mind, “The ruler is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.” Romans 13:4 20 Dead Over Venezuelan Protests Protests following the Venezuelan sham election over the weekend in which the communist dictator claimed victory - have resulted in 20 deaths, and 1,072 persons arrested by the regime, according to Effecto Cocuyo — an independent news source. The nation's prosecutor, Tarek William Saab has warned protestors, that they are facing up to 20-30 years in prison. A respected American polling organization, Edison Research, has issued its exit poll results for the Venezuelan election. Opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia of the Unitary Platform easily won by a margin of 65 to 31%. Younger (18-29 year old) voters were more likely to vote against the communist dictator, by a margin of 74% to 21%. Edison Research has been the sole provider of election data to the National Election Pool, consisting of ABC News, CBS News, CNN, and NBC News.  Also, AltaVista obtained results from about 1,000 polling stations, photographed them, analyzed them and then sent the results around the world. They also showed a landslide: 66 percent for González, 31 percent for Maduro. Debt in Africa Has Increased Substantially Africa's debt burden has increased substantially just since 2010. Reuters reports that Zambia, Ethiopia, and Ghana are now in default. And at least 20 African nations have taken on a heavy debt burden, as defined by the IMF, a condition that did not exist for these countries just 10 years ago.  Although, none of these nations are in as severe a condition as the United States - with a debt-to-GDP ratio — now at 122% up from 64% in 2008.  Japan, Sudan, Lebanon, and Greece have a higher debt-to-GDP ratio than the United States. “The debtor is servant to the lender.”  Proverbs 22:7. College Enrollment Dropping Undergraduate college enrollment has dropped another 852,000 students since 2019 - a 4.6% drop. Christain colleges are taking the hit.  A recent survey of 50 Christain colleges found 36 out of 50 Christian colleges had a net decrease in tuition income over the last 5 years, as reported by wng.org.  The college bubble has pretty much burst. . .In Minnesota, only 57% of high school graduates signed up for college on graduation, in 2022. That's down from 82% in 2011. Chik-fil-A Worker Fends off Armed Robber An armed robber broke into an Atlanta Chik Fil A last month, levelled a gun at employee Kevin Blair. . . and told him he was going to die if he didn't open the restaurant safe. By God's mercies, Blair fought off the armed robber for several harrowing minutes — in a desperate fight for his life, finally pushing him out the door of the restaurant. Blair talked about the struggle in an interview with WXIA TV — BLAIR: “I broke his glasses. I put my thumb into his eye.  He hit me several times.” WXIA TV ANNOUNCER: “Fighting off the intruder, the whole time thinking: BLAIR: “I want to see my kids.  That's really it.  Get through this.  Go see my kids.”  Police have arrested suspect Tommie Lee Williams in connection with the assault. And that's The World View in 5 Minutes on this Friday, August 2nd, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldView.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. Filling in for Adam McManus I'm Ean Leppin. Seize the day for Jesus Christ. 

Mat Staver is founder - chairman of Liberty Counsel. Mat is a constitutional attorney with three landmark cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He's an author and the host of the radio broadcasts Faith - Freedom and Freedom's Call.--It is Christians that are often accused of hate for simply agreeing with the Bible that the practices espoused by the LGBTQ movement are an abomination to God. To put it another way, such individuals sometimes accuse Christians of projecting hate when in reality, they are the ones that are guilty of such behavior.--The latest example is the extreme hate being shown Kim Davis through threats of physical violence, rape, death and arson. Kim is a retired Rowan County, Kentucky, clerk who several years ago boldly refused to violate her conscience when confronted with having to issue a marriage license to people of the same sex. --Upon asking for a religious accommodation, Kim was sued and ended up in jail for six days which brought her international attention. She eventually did receive her religious accommodation from then Governor Mat Bevin, but the ACLU continued to press forward and now she has a judgment against her for -360,000.--The reason Kim's case is catching so much media attention once again is because this case could be the one to overturn the 2015 Obergefell decision. Mat explains why and how this is causing not only Kim, but Liberty Counsel to be under threat of violence for daring to represent Davis in this battle and help her stand up for her constitutional rights.

Mat Staver is founder - chairman of Liberty Counsel. Mat is a constitutional attorney with three landmark cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He's an author and the host of the radio broadcasts Faith - Freedom and Freedom's Call.--It is Christians that are often accused of hate for simply agreeing with the Bible that the practices espoused by the LGBTQ movement are an abomination to God. To put it another way, such individuals sometimes accuse Christians of projecting hate when in reality, they are the ones that are guilty of such behavior.--The latest example is the extreme hate being shown Kim Davis through threats of physical violence, rape, death and arson. Kim is a retired Rowan County, Kentucky, clerk who several years ago boldly refused to violate her conscience when confronted with having to issue a marriage license to people of the same sex. --Upon asking for a religious accommodation, Kim was sued and ended up in jail for six days which brought her international attention. She eventually did receive her religious accommodation from then Governor Mat Bevin, but the ACLU continued to press forward and now she has a judgment against her for -360,000.--The reason Kim's case is catching so much media attention once again is because this case could be the one to overturn the 2015 Obergefell decision. Mat explains why and how this is causing not only Kim, but Liberty Counsel to be under threat of violence for daring to represent Davis in this battle and help her stand up for her constitutional rights.

This powerful episode in our Queer Futures series features an enlightening conversation about power structures with Jen and renowned author Roxanne Gay and co-writer Megan Pillow. The women explore not only the concept of individual power, but how we can engage in community empowerment. Together, they delve into how marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals, can claim their power and challenge existing power structures to create a more inclusive and just society. Discussion includes:  Claiming Individual Power: How women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others can assert their power in personal and professional spaces. Challenging Power Structures: The importance of calling out abuses of power and questioning the status quo Empowerment Through Solidarity: The role of community and collective action in amplifying individual voices and driving social progress. Re-examining Power Dynamics: How rethinking traditional notions of gender, race, and power can lead to more equitable outcomes. Focusing on the Margins: The significance of centering marginalized voices and experiences in conversations about power and progress. Roxanne and Megan discuss practical steps that anyone can take to empower others around them. We're encouraged to ask ourselves critical questions about our own relationships to power and to question the power sources that infringe on the rights of others and use our individual power to disrupt them. Every small act of resistance contributes to a larger movement for justice. * * * Thought-Provoking Quotes: “Power doesn't affect all of us equally and some people are able to wield power or are given power, and others have power wielded against them. There are all kinds of factors that contribute to the why of that.” - Dr. Roxane Gay “When you see an abuse of power, call it out and identify it. Oftentimes power works because nobody questions it and nobody challenges it.” - Dr. Roxane Gay "We have to use voting as one tool [to enact change], but we have to figure out other ways to be involved in our communities and to enact other forms of power, not just rely on voting as the singular tool that we use to try to enact change.” - Dr. Roxane Gay “The queer future is complicated. I think the queer future is much better than the queer past, and we are really enjoying a lot of freedom. But it's not enough and until all of us are free, none of us are free.” - Dr. Roxane Gay Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Bad Feminist by Dr. Roxane Gay - https://roxanegay.com/books/bad-feminist/ Difficult Women by Dr. Roxane Gay - https://roxanegay.com/books/difficult-women/ Hunger by Dr. Roxane Gay - https://roxanegay.com/books/hunger/ All of Roxane's Books - https://roxanegay.com/books/ Do The Work: A Guide to Understanding Power and Creating Change by Dr.Roxane Gay and Dr. Megan Pillow - https://bit.ly/45nxhvd The Power Book: What is it, Who Has it, and Why? by Dr. Roxane Gay - https://bit.ly/3VBRYAl Obergefell v. Hodges (2015 Supreme Court case making same-sex marriages legal in the U.S.) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obergefell_v._Hodges Guest's Links: Roxane's Website - https://roxanegay.com/ Roxane's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/roxanegay74   Roxane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/roxanegay74 The Audacity (Roxane and Megan's Stubstack Blog) - https://audacity.substack.com/ Megan's Website - https://www.meganpillow.com/ Megan's Twitter - https://twitter.com/megpillow Megan's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/megpillow77/ Craftwork (Megan's Substack Blog) - https://craftwork.substack.com/ Connect with Jen! Jen's website - https://jenhatmaker.com/ Jen's Instagram - https://instagram.com/jenhatmaker Jen's Twitter - https://twitter.com/jenHatmaker/ Jen's Facebook - https://facebook.com/jenhatmaker Jen's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/JenHatmaker The For the Love Podcast is a production of Four Eyes Media, presented by Audacy.  Four Eyes Media: https://www.iiiimedia.com/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices