#I needed a title for religious community leaders

[msclaritea]

From Ani O'Brien, on Twitter:

Why centring her campaign on abortion was a bad strategy for Kamala:

1. It was based on a lie. Access to abortion was going to be the same regardless of which candidate won. The Supreme Court ruled that abortion law was a matter for individual states TWO years ago. Trump's policy is to leave it as a matter for states to decide & he stated many times there would be NO federal abortion ban. Harris' has done nothing for TWO years to improve access despite being the VP. There is no indication that she had any plan except to wait for room on the Supreme Court to install a pro-abortion judge to ensure a challenge would get through. This would likely take years.

2. It was never going to entice soft Republicans to jump ship.

3. Many Democrats & Independents are pro-life and by focusing so closely on abortion they were alienated from her campaign.

4. Also alienates many minorities who are more likely to have religious beliefs e.g. Black, Arabic, and Latino communities.

5. Many women will never have an abortion or see abortion as something that happens only when something has gone very wrong, and while they care about it, life is so tough that they are likely to vote for matters more pressing and immediate to their survival.

6. The Democrats have been appalling on other aspects of women's rights because they believe men can declare themselves to be women. They have destroyed Title IX, put men in women's prisons, and refuse to acknowledge what a woman is. It can be viewed as hypocritical.

7. The attempt to start a movement of dads voting for their daughter's to have access to abortion seems alright on the surface but only to their base who votes for them already. Other dads (rightly or wrongly) do not want to think about their daughters having sex and getting accidentally pregnant. They may agree with abortion access but are uncomfortable with the thought of their daughter needing it.

8. The issue became so aggressively and hyperbolically discussed in media and online to the extent that more extreme views of no-term-limit abortions were being demanded and some women were bragging about how many abortions they have had. The activist madness then put off moderates who associated it with all the other woke issues that are irritating people.

9. Kamala spent so much time on this and demonising Trump that she did not offer an alternative vision and solutions to the real problems that Americans were saying mattered to them.

10. Many states have legalised (or are in the process of legalising) access to abortion already. Given Trump's assurances that the Federal Govt won't get involved the women of those states may feel confident to focus on other issues.

11. People could see through the scaremongering.

There are probably many other reasons I have missed. I am personally pro-choice but see it as a very serious decision not a form of contraception. I was disgusted by the scaremongering and out right lies. She centred her campaign on the lie that Trump was going to take immediate action to ban all abortions and she was going to reverse the SC decision on Roe V Wade which she cannot do.

Besides this, I am aware of Russia not being good. But, the fact is, they've been partnering with Africa for decades and are currently helping Burkina Faso against Jihadists insurgents. I also get the fact that our country is responsible for having installed Zekensky, who is a corrupt leader. It is no longer possible to see any entities or subjects as purely black and white. Geopolitics are changing, rapidly. Europe? It has been going downhill, for a while. If Africa continues to kick Western countries out of the region, who steal their resources, Europe and the rest of the West will keep going downhill, because places like Belgium and France have built their whole economy out of brutal colonization and theft of resources. America has, too. Our history in Africa is beyond appealing.

Finally, the way Harris treated her supporters, some who traveled hours to be there, at her alma mater Howard University, is pretty telling about what kind of leader she would have been. After having her back, Harris dipped out, without saying one word.

[illusioninfnty]

The Taste of the Divine

જ⁀➴ Cult Leader & Worshipper : Day 23

feat. Alicent Hightower ���★ Alicent is your most devoted follower. You offer her another way to prove to you why she deserves that title.

warnings! : NSFW 18+, dub-con, sub!Alicent, religious connotations, worship, praise, cunnilingus, fingering, masturbation, ruined orgasm

ᯓ★ kinktober m.list || read on ao3

The doors to your offering room opens, heels clacking behind you as they enter. Your back is turned to the entrance; instead you choose to look out of the large window, down at your commune. Everyone is going about their day, looking content and joyful. Just as you intend for them to be.

You don’t turn to greet the figure who entered—you already know who it is. Alicent is always the first to come visit you when your offering room is opened. Such a good woman. A good follower. You were lucky to have her with you, spreading your message to all that could hear.

“My Great Lady, I humbly thank you for your time.” Her greeting is the same every time. You wonder if she’ll ever switch it up for once.

“It’s good to see you, Alicent.”

You finally turn to face her. She kneels before you, head bent towards the ground. Her clothes reflect her humbleness, a modest blue cloak over a tan dress hanging around her shoulders. Her long curls cover her face from your view, something that displeased you. You liked seeing her wide, expressive eyes when they shined up at you.

Perhaps you can request her to wear her hair up, braided and out of her face, more often.

“What are you offering me today?” You ask, yet you have a feeling on exactly what she’ll say.

“I offer to you my deepest gratitude, and my greatest loyalty—”

“Enough.” You roll your eyes. You can hear the way her breath hitches. Her hands falter in their clasped position, and you can see the way her fingertips twitch against each other.

“How are the kids?” Her eyebrows furrow slightly, as if she’s surprised you’re bringing them up. Each of her four kids were a bit of wild cards within your commune, knowing that Alicent’s typical passivity was not enough to keep them in check. Out of the four, you had only been visited by one of them, and neither time it seemed like it was of his own volition.

“They are…doing well. Aemond and Daeron are excelling in his studies, Helaena has picked up some new hobbies. I have…introduced Aegon to your teachings, My Great Lady. He is more receptive to it than from his youth.” 

“And now that Viserys is gone?”

You knew that Alicent’s late husband was a sore subject for her. When you matched them together, it was the first time that she had actually begged you, going against your wishes.

It was the first, and only, time you had to punish her.

The next time she saw you, she thanked you for giving her to such a kind and passive man.

“I-I suppose I’m still getting used to being without him.”

You hum, taking in her answer. “Have you been feeling lonely, Alicent?”

Without skipping a beat, she replies. “I can never feel lonely when I know you are here to guide me.”

You almost snort at her generic words. You’ve heard it all before. “I don’t believe you.”

Alicent sputters in a panic. Her hands drop to the ground, and she bows even lower. “M-my Great Lady, whatever have I done, please tell me so I can reverse it!”

“Shh, shh.” You lean over, placing the palm of your hand onto her cheek. She finally looks up at you, and you’re met with those beautiful eyes, now filled with tears that look like they are about to spill over. “You are my most adored, Alicent. I will not deny that. But I do have another request from you. One that will keep you in my good graces.”

“Whatever you need, I will have it done for you.” Her words are spoken with conviction, and you smirk.

You take a seat at your ornate table, decorating with the finest clothes and gems. You motion a finger over to Alicent to follow, and she obeys. Without even having to tell her, she drops back down to her knees in front of you.

You spread your legs, hiking up the dress you wear to reveal your bare cunt underneath it. Alicent gasps, averting her gaze until you use your thumb and forefinger to move her head back to your direction.

“For my most devoted girl, I have a very special treat for you. You wouldn’t deny me, would you?”

Alicent kisses the thumb that rests upon her lips. “If it pleases you, I will do it with no question, My Great Lady.”

You run a hand through her curls as Alicent leans into you, her mouth upon your cunt with no hesitation. You hum in satisfaction as she begins to lick your folds, the heat of her tongue sending pleasure through your body.

“With more conviction, Alicent,” you command.

“Of course, My Great Lady.” Alicent begins to feast on you; one of her digs into your bare thigh for support as she allows herself to get lost in your cunt. You push her hair out of her face as she does so, and she hums against you, slurping at your juices.

She eats you like she’s starved, and you have no doubt that she hasn’t been receiving the sexual satisfaction that she is now. 

You bite your lip to hold in your moans as you throw your head back, petting her hair as her tongue passes over your clit, which she nibbles at.

“Does this please you?” you start, looking back down on her, “to know that you are satisfying me?”

“Y-yes,” Alicent slurs out, “I’ll do whatever I can to satisfy you.”

A pause passes as she awaits your next command. “Then touch yourself.”

For the first time since she started, Alicent stops in her movements and looks up at you. “P-pardon?”

You narrow your eyes at her hesitation. “Finger your cunt the way that you wish for me to do to you.”

Her eyes widen and she nods. You can see a blush making an appearance across her cheeks. As she dives back into your cunt, you see a hand slowly reach down her body. She gasps into your cunt, and you know that she’s starting to touch herself.

“Show your fingers up your cunt, just like how your tongue is in me.” You guide her with your words, spreading your legs wider to allow more room for her to feast on you.

“I want to hear your moans. Let them out for me,” you croon.

“O-oh!” Alicent lets out the faintest gasps, her body jolting as she fingers herself. The vibrations from her sounds of pleasure are felt through your cunt, and you sigh as you let yourself indulge in the euphoria of it all.

Alicent is much more deft with her mouth than you imagined though, because you can already feel yourself approaching your orgasm, a familiar tightening occurring within your core. The hand you have in her deep auburn tresses tightens and she moans.

“Keep going,” you urge, and Alicent’s tongue moves even faster than before inside of you.

The tightness in your core finally releases, like a spring uncoiling from itself. You contain your moans to the best of your ability, but it feels impossible when Alicent is licking up all the juices that spill out of your cunt.

Her whines grow more high pitched and frequent. Sensing that she’s about to cum from her fingers, you stop her. You reach down, grasping onto the arm that is tucked between her thighs and reaching down between her own cunt. She gasps, and you pull her arm up.

She looks up at you confused, panting unsteadily as she recovers from her ruined orgasm.

“I’ll give you your reward the next time you come see me,” you say as you cup her cheek in your hand.

Alicent nestles her cheek into your hand looking up at you with a shy smile. “I will be looking forward to it, My Great Lady. Nothing in the world can compare to being by your side.”

You smile at her words. She truly is your most faithful follower. The others would do good by following in her example.

[heckthis-heckallofthis]

How I think things will change once Squad Leader (King Killer) retires/gets transferred/promoted to a higher position and Cross has to take his place as leader.

He BAWLS his eyes out. What do you MEAN his beloved squad leader won't be with them anymore??? He cries so hard you'd think our King Killer died but in reality he just isn't leading anymore

Once he finishes bawling (he's still sniffling and everything, he's just not crying as hard) he gives him so many gifts and apologizes for so many things.

2145 can probably visit him anytime he wants, maybe he congratulates him? He's okay with it.

Helper T is SO thankful he doesn't have to deal with that gorilla anymore (under a different helper T cell now). He hates that idiot.

HT would probably hand the title to just anyone, as long as he doesn't have to see that gorilla anymore. I think a lot of the seniors in the Squad would definitely vote for Cross to be leader (He loves training, is moderately prepared for scenarios, and also knows a lot of leading things because of how adamant he is to help King Killer)

HT finally gives them a budget. For no reason in particular. King Killer hears about it and he's so annoyed. "So the second I'm out of his hair he decides to give my squad a good budget?!"

Cross is definitely forced to be more mature now. Once he sees how much naive T cells in the squad rely on him he can't mess around anymore.

3033 once tried to start up an argument with him he just stopped in the middle of his sentence (it was calling him an idiot repetitively) and just ended it right there and then. 3033 hates it.

I think just to make him suffer more the other senior T cells are moved out of his squad to others like the Pharynx district (their Squad Leader just got transferred to the stomach and they don't have anyone experienced enough to help) so all the KT cells under him are freshly baked and got no idea how to deal with paperwork/the various conveniences around the station

At first he isn't very used to being called Squad Leader. Forgets for like 3 minutes until he's like "why isn't the squad leader responding? That guy has been calling for him for a while now… wait. IM THE SQUAD LEADER."

He worries so much about them, every time he's not at the station he checks his phone religiously and regularly messages them to see if they're alright. "Everything okay at the station? Nothing's bad happening right?"

This was enhanced 10 fold when the area the squad was tasked with protecting got a viral infection on his off-day but they didn't want to bother their squad leader so they tried dealing with it themselves. Cross head in hands and finally understands why King Killer was so strict with everything especially communication and preparation.

His situation is more or less the same to squad leader except the difference is that Cross has "emotional support" (3033) (he still makes fun of him but they're kinda friends now)

Helper T makes him clean his office and he also finally realizes why Squad leader hated his guts (Helper T doesn't really have an opinion on him, just another subordinate to him)

At first the T cells who have seen what Cross was like before being squad leader never took him that seriously, but the newer T cells are a little intimidated (because of the reputation King killer left behind)

Maybe at some point they brush him off so much he needs to call in help to get them to start taking training seriously because T cells need to be prepared everyday.

He does learn to speak in a scary and commanding tone but the things he says aren't commanding nor scary at all ("UP NAIVE T CELLS, LETS GET TRAINING!!" or "KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, HYDRATE YOURSELVES!!")

Once he finally gets that scary demeanour down it's hard for him to talk to his Naive T cells normally, thinks he's gonna be the scary squad leader like his before

Asks 3033 if he's hard to talk to (while low-key crying)

"Hard to talk to? You're flooding the room with your tears in front of me." (He is a bad person to ask because 3033 has seen him cry, MADE him cry, and seen how stupid he is)

All of King Killer's friends do take him seriously tho. IM1235 is good friends with him and thinks he's super awesome. 2145 doesn't talk to him much but he doesn't mind him at all, he's just glad he's way less awkward than his old squad leader. Eosinophil is still terrified of him, Dendritic cell doesn't trust him enough for his plushies but is willing to help him with anything else. M cell sometimes still treats him younger than he actually is, he's trying his best to remember he's technically his peer, but it's hard when he's seen what he was like as his junior.

[vivianleighwishesshewasme]

The Devils Mate

The Devils Mate

Esme and Tommy- Modern dystopia

 World went to hell after another major world war. No electronics survived. Different groups developed into different tribes with tastes and towns. Some modern conveniences for those doing better than others.

My own personal work, your can of course reblog and share. 

Warning: mentions of abuse, almost rape and lots of swearing. You’ve been warned. Sex later in chapters. Don’t read if you are under 18!!

I'm serious. You've been warned.

_________________Tommy’s POV____________________________________________________

I’d seen the progression of the cult grow exponentially over the last year even. Their property that was ever expanding started encroaching on the Shelby brothers company limited property.  To be fair we’d basically bought all the property around them boxing them in. We also had access to the only creek and pond effectively cutting off their water resource minus the tiny well that wouldn’t sustain the fifty plus families on the six acres of land that they occupied. No, we were forcing their hand. Behind the property there was a dirt road that led to acres of trees and access to the creek and pond or if you headed north, to the town.

 My house was the first home you’d see, flanked by my Uncle Charlies and then the buildings where my posh brothers lived in townhouses. The town was built before the world went to shit. Meant to be a “historical outdoor museum” Now the lap of luxury. We had all kinds of buildings. Grocer, butcher, wagon maker and so on. It was a fully functional town and the Shelby family owned most of it.

 “The congregation of the city on a hill” was the official title of said cult. Some religious groups, interestingly enough, seemed to have gypsies in the camp. Most of the women dressed like Edwardians albeit working class, nothing wrong with it. A small group that seemed to mix in was definitely Romany like us. Lots of vibrant colors. We’ve been observing them for a while. We didn’t need another religious group dividing people. They’d have to fully disband and keep their word. We didn’t need more trouble in town. .  They loaded guns when we approached and most of the group seemed to be made up of men. More than what I had at the moment. I needed to figure out how they recruited so I could grow my town and base of men for expansion's sake. All I needed was to make contact and talk to someone. 

*********************ESME’S POV***********************************

I hated it. I loved the children, I loved the walk away from the compound and I loved the freedom from most of the cult. I hated being watched and kept in line. I don’t think I’ve warranted most of the punishments that have been heaped on me as the leader's daughter. If I rolled my eyes, spoke up and had an opinion about anything or even wandered off in my mind, a swift punishment would ensue. 

In the time before I had a normal life. 

Seven men ages 15-21 were following the children and I. A few other girls from the camp followed as well bringing us up to 27 people in total. I liked math. I remembered the time before “God’s wrath”, as they called it,  when I was in school, selling our family's vegetables by the road. I loved recording the sales, planning next year's garden by the trends I was seeing in my raggidy notebook. I wish I could have gone into business. We didn’t do any business with anyone anymore. Anything we wove, made or grew stayed within the community.  

Now my place is watching children and preparing for my engagement to a leader's son. God I hated that sniveling little guttersnipe. Pretended to be holy while breaking all the rules. He and his boys could do whatever with little to no consequence.  He may look handsome but he was a mean S.O.B. I had no choice really. My mother felt forced to accept and I was a woman…I was a vessel for a child. I didn’t mind children and wanted my own eventually. Not with Peter however. I couldn’t trust him with myself let alone kids.  When our dad stepped out a few months ago it had fractured the power base. My mum was forced to remarry, even though no proof was given that he’d died. 13 leaders now, all with different ideas on the future and deciding who is important at any given day. 

  I looked around as we came into the clearing near the pond. The soft sunlight was flickering over the tree line and warming the ground near me. This was my peace.  We had a favorite picnic spot.  We were out picking black berries for canning.  Everyone was busy talking, flirting, going off into the bushes for a romp or playing. I sat down near the creek's edge and grabbed my notebook. I was getting lost in my sketches for next year's garden. Truth be told we had to get creative. The property all  around us was being bought. We tried to buy a farm about half a mile away. It had been blocked by a sale to Shelby Company Limited. The church was so angry. Saying the devil blocked us. They wanted the  horses to spread the word and expand the cult, the land and resources. We were getting too big too quickly to sustain anything long term. 

“Beautiful morning.” I turned my head upwards and squinted into the tree line near the creek's edge. The man was on the other side of the creek. Territory I was forbidden to go on. The heathen town. I couldn’t see a town from here, perhaps it was a walk through the trees. He was well dressed in a tweed suit. Blues and browns. His gold pocket watch shined in the sun and his shoes were freshly polished for a walk in the woods. He had some gypsy in him I’d bet. Made me smile to think I still had something in common with someone. Even if we’d never meet again. . His voice was deep and rich, he had chiseled cheekbones and icy blue eyes. My brain wandered to what it would be like to lick the rain drops of his strong jaw line. I blushed, buried my head in my notebook. I often found people attractive enough to enjoy a glance but this man had the heat  pooling tightly in my belly like a snake ready to strike. My Omega knew instantly who he was…our mate. I wondered what he smelled like. 

________________Tommy_________________________________________________

I chuckled once I realized why she was ignoring me across the creek. She seemed odd at first. Face like a doll, rounded and soft, dark brown hair with piercing eyes.  Eyes as Poll would say that saw through your soul. Her hair was braided off to the side giving me a good view of her face. She dressed differently than them. Romany. She wore a white Edwardian dress but she had rings on all fingers, a red shawl obviously passed down since it was well made and older looking. She could wrap our children in that shawl.  She also lined her eyes shortly after she sat down. I was drawn to this girl. 

  The wind had gently picked up and I smelled her. Lavender and wild honey. She was my mate. I smiled broadly. I know she was aware of who I was to her. What did I smell like to her? Would she reject me? It was the woman's choice in our culture to accept or reject her mate. Most women didn’t due to the bond being able to kill if it was strong enough. I need to bide my time and be patient. Make her like me so she’ll accept the bond. This was going to be hard even for me. I turned as my brothers as they came crashing through the woods like 500 pound squirrels. I was annoyed when I turned back and she had moved away from the creek. She was in a heated discussion with one of the children by a black berry bush. She didn’t seem angry, just annoyed. She helped pick quickly sparing glances at the menfolk on her side. She was worried about something. I observed her for a while before she came back and sat by the creek again busying herself with her little book.

I bent down as far as I could on my side. I couldn’t raise my voice too high over the rushing water or her guards would come over and be noisy. If she was my mate then she could help me, maybe get me names or a way to get into the cult and draw people out of the town. 

“Girl, come closer eh, let me talk to you.” I spoke slowly and calmly like I would to a mare. She wasn’t budging but she was interested in me. Her eyes kept drawing to the side in little flickers letting me know she was aware of me.

“My name is not a girl.” She spat out. I hid my smile with a black gloved hand. God, she had fire in her. 

“No, that would be a silly name for a beautiful gypsy girl.” I nodded locking eyes with her. Green hazel eyes with bursts of gold. She was getting weary of my conversation, she kept looking at the men and then at me. She probably wasn’t allowed to talk to anyone outside of the cult. Most likely she’d be punished if they caught her. 

 “Romany eh, what's a good gypsy woman doing in a cult, huh?” She sat stock still as if not wanting a predator to know she was there. I swelled with pride. She was a smart one too.

 “ What's in your book?” Third question would be the one she answered right? I was getting annoyed sitting on my haunches. My shoes were cutting into my feet and my legs were aching. Give me something. 

“Just my math.” she answered softly, eyes not leaving her page. “Planning next year's garden and supply list.” She lifted it closer to her chest as if it was guarding her heart. My resolve was weakening quickly. I need to get to work, distract myself from her soothing scent. She looked worried. I bet I knew what it was. No matter how she worked it, they wouldn’t survive. 

“The farmer you went through for the horses sold his farm, yeah, that’s why your upset?  Miss….” I rolled my hand gently prompting her to answer.I wanted a name from her. She glanced at my hand and raised an eyebrow. She was a very cautious girl. She was covered head to toe even on a hot day. Something wasn’t right, she was too guarded. 

“ My point is your only supplier outside of the town is gone. You're all too far from any other town especially without horses, what's the plan? When do your resources run out?” Her face looked stunned but she recovered more quickly than even I anticipated. Blank doll face met me but the surprise was still in her eyes. 

“So that’s what happened to him.” she said flatly. “He’s gone and sold to you.” She was thinking.

“That's what happened to him.” I repeated. I wanted her looking at me. Mr. turner had fucked off to another town to be with his daughter and her husband. They had started a feed mill business but neither of them were good managers of people or finances. Mr. Turner however was a very successful man that wasn’t too affected when the modern world ended. He simply went on. 

 She glanced down at that damn book again and then to me. I was ready to throw it in the damn pond. I took a deep breath remembering who she was to us. I was trying to settle down with my Sigma who wanted to claim her. The scent wasn’t helping at all. He raged inside me demanding I claim her now as ours, protect her, mate and keep her. 

“Esme! Come here you stupid whore!” A man's voice rang out harshly causing her to slam her book shut and stomp away. She didn’t go to him, but she was so much closer to him  thenI wanted her to be. She stood a good distance away with the children back to her picking duties. 

I stood towering over the edge just waiting for an excuse to come over and cut him a smile, as John boy would say. I felt two strong hands on my chest grounding me. I could kill that boy for speaking to her like that. She wasn’t his to address in any fashion.

“Pretty little girl.” Arthur observed her and smiled. “Ease down, eh, brother.”  I sucked down my urge to hit him. I didn’t even look at Arthur. 

 It was just my Sigma not enjoying someone looking at my women. I nodded. John caught my eye and smirked. He knew, he refused to look at her which I appreciated. 

“ She’s one of those cult girls huh?” John laughed. “ Be an obedient little wife, huh Arther.” John sobered up quickly when my cold gaze met him. Suddenly the bare patch of ground was of interest to him. 

“No, Mrs. Shelby has a fire in her. I can tell.” We laughed, causing the boys across the creek to suddenly find interest in us. I explained who she was to us, softening my brothers up to the knowledge that she was family and should be treated as such. I didn’t need a first or second mark on her to claim she was mine. She was under the protection of the peaky blinders now. 

Feeling more settled we grabbed our tools as they all settled on their side and draped cloth blankets on the ground and brought out picnic baskets. We had everyone's attention. We were building a bridge to close the gap over the four foot wide gap between sides. We would be

forcing their hand very soon to come visit our town. Especially with my mate now having knowledge that their supplier was entirely cut off causing desperation. We stripped down to just our shirts and trousers and got to work. I kept my cap close by in case that fucker grabbed at Esme. Now I had a name to mutter tonight when I thought of her. 

********************Esme*********************************************

I could gut him like a fish! I hated when Peter talked to me like that. He may be my fiance in name but as far as I was concerned he didn’t have any reason to speak to me let alone call me names or even my name. I watch the mystery man across the creek react with cold blooded rage but he was stopped by two others. Family of some sort guessing by their faces. I wanted him to cross that creek. Come pick me up and haul me off to another life, hopefully a better one. He was handsome and intelligent enough. I’d be happy to mate with him.  I was staring. I caught one of them mention it which caused laughter on their side of the water. I blushed and looked down. I had caught a name before I glanced back and  my man winked at me. Tommy. 

“Esme, can you help me please.” A small little voice of one of my favorite little girls crept through my ears. I tossed my book. It was clear I wasn’t going to be working in it. I smiled at Britney. She was my sunshine. A little girl of 7 with wheat blonde hair always in a braid. Blue eyes like my mates and the sweetest smile which she always wore even in her sleep. 

I spread out the blanket for our lunch picnic. I had made my quilt so it was rich in fall colors of browns, golds,oranges and creams. I glanced at my mate who was shirtless, tattooed and smiling at me after he pounded in every nail on that bridge. I couldn’t wait to wrap our babies up in that quilt. Perhaps I’d have a girl with my hair color, his eyes and smile. A girl could dream right. 

[aspoonofsugar]

I think morena will be taken out by chrollo given the jesus references with morena design and chrollos own motif Chrollo's character draws on biblical motifs, specifically diabolical ones: the inverted cross on his coat is often associated with Satanism, and his surname is obviously derived from Lucifer.

Hi!

Yes, I have talked about Chrollo and Morena's potential foiling in multiple posts, like this one:

Morena and Chrollo share the same lack of attachment to life and a religious motif. Chrollo is a mix between the Devil and an inverse Jesus, while Morena’s crown of thorns links her to Jesus as well.

Both their religious motifs have to do with them being leaders. Chrollo and the Spiders are a group of misfits that choose to steal from others, instead of promoting Christian values of charity or trying to change the unjust philosophy of society. They are a disturbance like Jesus and his disciples, but their philosophy is the opposite of his. Morena wears a crown of thorns because she is considered by her society a fake queen, just like Jesus was mocked for his title of King of the Jews. Jesus has this mockery inflicted by others, while Morena is symbolically choosing to inflict it to herself through wearing the crown.

As leaders, both Chrollo and Morena put their identities into their groups. Chrollo has created a group, which in his dreams will survive him. He refers to himself as “the head of the spiders” and thinks his life is not more important than the other members’. Morena’s whole plan consists of leaving her group to do the dirty work for her and her power has no other effect, but to grant others abilities.

This dependence on their respective groups is a hint of how both Chrollo and Morena’s sense of self is ultimately very weak. They have weak egos.

This is why Chrollo needs to steal others’ powers. He steals people’s selves hoping he can find his own and does not realize how his sense of self is in the familial relationships he has with his spiders.

Morena instead tries to oppose Nasubi, but reduces herself to his negation. She is defined by him. She hates hierarchies and this is why her power supposedly grants every member the chance to create their own community. Still, it is all rooted in hierarchies. People are given value through numbers and are granted gifts and rights only if they level up. Even the people Morena’s group has to kill are granted a value. Normal people are less than nen users who are less than princes.

Morena is moving in the same framework as Nasubi, just in the opposite direction. She has not freed herself from his vision. Maybe this is why a prince is at level 50, while she is only at level 45.

Morena is meant to be Chrollo's foil just like Tserriednich is meant to be Kurapika's. In general, this arc seems to be to have both Kurapika and the Spiders as protagonists, they offer us 2 different points of view on the same conflict:

Kurapika describes to us the Prince War, the bloody war of the rich, which is born from abuse and a need to sacrifice the individual for society. In this context, Kurapika's antagonist is building up to be Tserriednich, obviously.

Chrollo and the Spiders show us the Mafia War, which is just a mirror of what is happening above and is born from those same rules and violence. In this scenario, they Spiders are choosing to go after Morena before they hunt down Hisoka.

At the same time, I doubt everything is just gonna be reduced to... Kurapika is gonna kill Tserriednich and Chrollo Morena... Tserriednich and Morena are foes that should challenge Kurapika and Chrollo to overcome their flaws. In particular, Kurapika is probably gonna have to decide between Oito and her baby and getting revenge on his people. What is more important? New life or past death? Chrollo instead must choose if to be like Morena, who is clearly sacrificing the members of her group one after one in a selfish game or if to protect them, even if it costs him revenge and partly his chaotic ideals.

Thank you for the ask!

[dragoncarrion]

kimmie who's shrikeshed :) ?

AHAAAokay i really like her she's just a micro revival of my edgy teenager phase. this one will get a bit long so under the cut. also uhm. cw for mentions of cannibalism LOL she's my "I'm eating you because I hate you" gal

a little context here. ive been working on this wof fanflight (ashwings. basically like a little dragon subspecies or something) for a few years now, and shrikeshred is one of those, a moor runner specifically. ashwings all live in quivers which are way smaller than the canon kingdoms, each with their own rules and (most common) type of dragon yadda yadda. shrikeshred is the corvus of her quiver, a practical and almost religious leadership role in the moors. what a corvus does is oversee wyvern rearing in the community (here they use wyverns (smaller 2 wing 2 leg feral dragons) for falconry and as companions), officiate burials and influence which leader is next in line, so as such they're vital and very respected in their quiver.

shrikeshred had an almost uncanny TALENT with wyverns, and pioneered training methods and even discovered many novel things about wyverns (ecology, anatomy, etc), all of these things written in her journal-esque book, later on titled "way of the shrike". This is what she WOULD'VE been most known for had she not turned to cannibalizing other denizens. She became a sort of legend boogey man, both for her actions, and because no one really knows exactly what happened, why she turned on her kin and started just eating them. Some believe that lean times put pressure on her, and with Grasshopper, the accipiter (title for the leader) of that time being very incompetent, was what made her snap. While this isn't too far form reality, other things factored in. At first she only ate from already dead dragons, she was so hungry after all :p (this is the reason why corvus werent allowed at funerals for a while lol). but soon, that wasn't enough, something told her she needed more (the something here being a prion rabies disease that she got from eating people and slowly incubated over time lmao). half eaten bodies were starting to be found around the territory, but no one had a clue of what was going on. Shrikeshred was highly respected, so no one suspected her for a while. Hiding her scent with strong oils and perfumes also helped cover her tracks. After killing and eating Grasshopper, her sister, Whistlethorn, got the leadership, something Shrikeshred herself had orchestrated from loooong before. Whistlethorn was NOTTTT leader material: shy, nervous and weak willed, which allowed Shrikeshred to have even more control over the quiver than before. But whistlethorn trusted her, so this seemed alright with her kinda.

soon enough, hunger and illness turned to desperation, and her intellect couldn't keep her crimes hidden anymore. at this point, the disease had almost completely taken over shrikeshred's brain, turning her actions erratic and impulsive. after being found out, she vanished into the Misty Spires, a presumably haunted place sunken in a permanent fog (moor runners believe this fog to be evil or some shit idk). There was a short period of peace, but everyone was still on edge, which turned to outright panic when bodies started turning up again, all impaled in a signature stake (like shrikes do irl!). Whistlethorn was torn (hah), how could the sister she had trusted so much have turned like this? as much as she hated it, she missed shrikeshred, but something had to be done about her. One day, she packed some things up, and left for the spires. No one knows if she succeeded or if she was just another of Shrikeshred's meals, but what's sure is that both of them vanished and were never seen again.

To this day, many still believe Shrikeshred's ireful spirit lurks the spires, and prowls around in search for new victims when the fog descends into the moors.

alsooo i have drawn them ! here's the sisters (whistlethorn's tail tip is broken from playfighting with shrike when they were kids lol. i forgot to mention both of them but especially shrike are WAY bigger and stronger than the average skinny ass moor runner)

and her three wyverns, all of them species considered untameable, so no one has managed to train one besides her ever

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Faisal Saeed Al Mutar

Published: Apr 25, 2023

It’s hard to be taken seriously in today’s foreign policy establishment when talking about the harms of what is broadly referred to as “woke culture.” Russia’s expansionist war in Ukraine, the ascendance of totalitarian China, the ever-present risk of jihadist terrorism, and many other threats would seemingly leave little room to focus on the American culture war. However, foreign policy specialists are now beginning to recognize that this is in fact a problem worth paying attention to.

In an interview with Elle magazine in 2021, French President Emmanuel Macron said imported "woke culture" from the United States is "racializing" France and creating more division among minorities. That same year, France’s national education minister, Jean-Michel Blanquer, said: “People who claim to be progressive and who…distinguish people by the color of their skin are leading us to things that resemble fascism.” Today, Macron is acting to distance France from the U.S. in an effort to avoid becoming “America’s followers.”

Macron and Blanquer are far from outliers in being displeased with America’s peculiar culture wars spreading to their countries. With every trip I take to the EU– from Copenhagen to Lisbon and even Iceland– I increasingly hear the same thing: America’s internal problems are negatively affecting European countries. We are exporting our unique cultural conflicts to places that have entirely different histories and frameworks for how to think about difficult topics such as race relations.

The people I speak to in these countries  are incredulous as to how and why America has arrived at this contentious cultural moment. The American citizenry is becoming increasingly divided, and, thanks to the internet, we are successfully exporting this division to our international allies. It’s no wonder that leaders who are concerned with maintaining stability in their countries would try to distance themselves from this cultural influence.

One of France's leading magazines, Le Spectacle Du Monde, ran a cover story in 2021 titled "The Suicide of America." The magazine blamed America's retreat from Afghanistan on a “woke dictatorship" and questioned whether the American empire was collapsing. Not only might America be collapsing, but we might also be taking down significant swaths of European countries with us. The longer we cling to hyper-polarization and sensational “social justice” ideas (or wokeness, for lack of a better term), the more likely we are to abdicate our position as a world leader, and the less likely our allies— and more importantly, our enemies, such as Russia and China—are to take us seriously.

If we value our reputation as a world superpower, we need to be taken seriously by the rest of the world. In order to be taken seriously, we must effectively counter extremism at home. Two clear actions we can take are to invest in organizations that combat polarization, and to promote education for young Americans that gives them a comprehensive view of history and America’s place within the global community.

We must reject extremism in every form. Whether it is wokeism, far right authoritarianism, or religious fundamentalism. America once represented a beacon of hope and democracy, and it’s not too late to return to that. The time to right the ship was years ago, but we’ve arrived at a critical moment in which we have a choice to make: continue down the path of extremism and watch the American experiment become consigned to the dustbin of history, or do the hard work of uniting the American people, and by default, our international allies, around principles of freedom, democracy, and decency.

[wolves-etc]

thoughts on The Last Of Us episode eight (uh-oh), largely in the order I had them:

[thoughts on: 1.1 | 1.2 | 1.3 | 1.4 | 1.5 | 1.6 | 1.7 | X | 1.9]

[for folks not familiar with the episode: content warning for vague references to grooming, CSA and rape]

— I've heard vague things about this ep - nothing specific, just Oh Boy There May Be A Lot Here - so I'm starting off wearing socks this time in case of spooky moments and with a hot chocolate to ward off angst. let's do this.

— I'm really growing to appreciate how impressively fleshy the fungus in the title credits is

— for a moment there the revelations bible reading with a girl starting to sob in the background felt like a mass suicide rapture cult thing about to happen, but THANK FUCK, it looks like they're just grieving.

— "just"

— the necessary practicality of "the ground is too cold to dig, we'll bury your father in the spring," and the extra grief that comes with the interruption of a ritual we use to acknowledge someone's death and start to move on from it.

— y'know it's nice that we get some interesting faces on here - faces a little outside the standard range of TV attractiveness. I sent my friend a few screenshots to point this out and express appreciation and I'm being treated to an update on all the actors in this who were voice actors for the games. it's very cool and i approve.

— "I sensed doubt" as an accusation from a religious leader (even if it's about his role more broadly as a community leader) makes me feel pretty stabby, not gonna lie

— I think that was pus on joel's wound and honestly kudos to the show for showing it! it's not leaning into the gore super much - netflix does that for shock value, I think, and to emphasise the, well, casual violence of the casual violence - but this kinda just feels realistic.

— ellie telling joel she's gonna be right back, I think more for herself than for him </3

— oh her nose and cheeks do not look good. I had to reassure myself she's been travelling with joel in that weather for A While now and probably knows what to look out for in the cold, but ouch.

— there's this nice thing here where we KNOW she was in military school and she can fire a gun, but joel still had to give her pointers; we know she's hardy and can fight well, but still doesn't know much about hunting, still makes noise when she walks and falls on her face and is clearly trying but will need luck if she's going to succeed.

— also I'm pretty sure that was an infected noise.

— or apparently not.

— impromptu rifle range!! you go, girl!

— oh no

— ellie's clearly not holding the rifle in a way that would LET her shoot them right between the eyes and they're so clearly humouring her a bit and it's this really odd mix of "she's genuine danger" and "this is just child-wrangling and children can be volatile"

— good enough with guns to know how to deload the others' rifles though

(still not sure what the correct term for deloading is - unloading just sounds like you're firing the damn thing everywhere. my friend suggested "decocking." which is just great. /s)

— "I actually started believing after the world ended." yeowch

— "so you went from teacher to preacher 'cos what, it fuckin' rhymes?" "yeah, exactly."

THIS IS SWEET OH NO yeah of course he was a teacher, he's got that good-at-kids vibe. (as opposed to good with kids, admittedly.)

— (my friend said that was an interesting distinction. I said: "he's good at reading and understanding her, knowing most of her threat is bravado but taking it seriously anyway, but he's not relating to her. there's a potential for manipulation - trying to get her to do what he wants or needs from her. which in this case would be handing over all or most of the meat.")

((listen. it was mostly vibes but this show is good at vibes.))

— I'm sorry is this dude a preacher advocating for revenge murder 'cos holy fuck I'm gonna knock him unconscious with his own holy book

— had to pause to be very angry at this for a moment because hi the "god put this murder opportunity in front of me, isn't that nice of him" line of thinking is. bad very bad it's very very bad

— he got an entire deer out of the bargain and he's still going to devote resources to vengeance, isn't he, the motherfucker

— ellie not knowing how to give joel the penicillin is so REAL. she really is very competent! she's also a fourteen-year-old with minimal life experience and education and her caregiver and relative expert in these things is currently incapacitated. I really hope she didn't just inject a fatal amount into his liver or something.

— lying down with a hand on his chest oh fuck

— "what is [the meat]?" "…venison." I really hope that guy looks naturally shifty.

— at least it's not like it could be random people meat or something

…oh fuck

oh fucking fuck fuck NO

"we'll bury his body in the spring" YEAH SURE I'M SURE THAT GUY JUST NATURALLY LOOKS SHIFTY AND IT'S FINE. look I can't even judge them for making this call to survive but it's fucking grim.

— excuse me he did fucking NOT just slap a teenager so hard he knocked her to the floor

okay now I'm starting to get why the mood in that community is so fucking atrocious. they're scared of him and he's using that fear to keep things working.

— "bless us with christ, the living bread" while they're sitting down for a meal of human is especially grim

— I'm glad ellie hasn't forgotten about the horse 'cos I kinda did

— I do like this show's quiet moments

— "how dare you decide that the girl dying is god's will. I decide what deaths are god's will." (paraphrased. but listen. I know evil preacher dude hasn't actually said he wants joel dead, but I can tell what he means by justice will, eventually, be death, even if he puts on a big show about coming to that decision grudgingly.)

— hang on I need to get some knife emojis in here 🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️

— ellie breaking my fucking heart here with her instructions to joel

— okay I did admittedly expect her to be more subtle but yelling "hey, motherfuckers!" and shooting at them IS very her

— I'm a wimp about some things so asked my friend for assurance that they don't take joel captive.

I didn't even think to ask whether they'd get ellie.

— (when I find myself in times of trouble helena from orphan black comes to me, speaking no words of wisdom but rather dealing with whoever needs to be dealt with then setting the place on fire.)

— at this point and for my own comfort I looked up just enough to know that joel and ellie are free and alive at the beginning of the next episode.

— "did you hear me say the others want to kill you?" "yeah." "but I stopped them." "fuck you." ellie <3 <3 <3

— yeah he's being sorta condescending here I called it. talking down to her and trying to bully her into doing what he wants. I'd actually like him better if he were taking the straightforward tess approach of "please be honest with us so we can figure out whether you're worth transporting as cargo."

— ellie's fear at the end of that first cage scene is brutal. major props to the actress and holy shit I'm glad she's still defiant (the fight response to immediate danger is kinda less painful to watch, for me) but fuck.

— JOEL IS SUCH A COMFORT TO SEE RIGHT NOW

— and now it's a torture scene and honestly still such a comfort. love a character who'll threaten to pop someone's kneecap off in defence of a child.

— the deeply inappropriate joy I felt when joel got the guy to point out the location with the knife shoved in his mouth

— "it'd better be the exact same spot your buddy points to" holy SHIT he did this earlier, with the nice hermit couple who gave him soup, this is practised and familiar

that's a heck of an insight into the kind of stuff he used to do and I'm not even sure what to feel about it

— …what's ellie seen

— THAT'S WHAT ELLIE'S SEEN

— can this guy not talk about cordyceps like I talk about cordyceps please. like yes it ISN'T evil yes it IS just multiplying and protecting itself and its progeny but shut up I don't want to agree with you

I guess I'd argue for its inherent amorality more than its goodness anyway. what the fuck, dude.

— "I'm a shepherd surrounded by sheep" you absolute motherfucker, a shepherd can't keep their sheep in fear or they can't do their fucking job. yes I'm pretending to know a lot more about sheep than I do for the sake of a grudge. WHAT OF IT.

— "if he leaves us in peace, they will just let him go." bastard knows exactly what he's doing.

— this dude appealing to ellie "as an equal" is deeply fucking creepy. I know I said I'd prefer the tess approach but THIS IS NOT THE TESS APPROACH. this is the creepy groomer approach. this is the "I want to manipulate you into being my attack dog" approach.

— okay I said creepy groomer as a fucking metaphor. look, this show did such a good job NOT leaning into the standard post-apoc rape and creepiness tropes that I straight up forgot creeps like that could exist here.

that in the context of him having "violence in his heart" that he struggled to come to terms with, and having been a school teacher, I-

— "tell them that ellie is the little girl who broke your fucking finger." holy shit I love her I love her I lo

— I know it's bravado I know she's scared but I love her and joel's coming to get her

— WHEN I ASKED MY FRIEND EARLY ON WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF ELLIE BIT SOMEONE I DIDN'T EXPECT IT TO ACTUALLY HAPPEN. YOU GO GIRL

— YES, GIRL

— …I think the fact that this show didn't lean into the turbo-boosted-rape-culture tropes that are so typical for the genre makes it so much fucking creepier when it. actually happens.

— the triumph of ellie managing to kill him is a lot, the tragedy of ellie having to kill him is a lot, her terror and violation as she just, can't stop stabbing is. so much.

— JOEL

— JOEL AND ELLIE JOEL AND ELLIE

— "it's okay, baby girl. I got you."

— I love them both so much I love them both so much I lov

[loudsharkballoon]

"Religion bullies local store"<Fixed the title. People still need milk, bread, medicine, and other stuff even on a Sunday. These people even chain up playgrounds and frown upon anyone doing out-door laundry on that day. I think they're the real problem here, not Tesco. Tesco has more than a right to remain open, your religious freedom should not mean you can force businesses to close and lose on money and stunt the availability of products someone may need in a pinch. "“When stores and businesses open their doors on Sunday, it may seem like a convenience at first, but the resulting ripple effect leaves workers with less time to rest, less time for family, less time for church worship and invariably, a lower quality of life.” < Wow, manipulative. Trying to suggest that your quality of life will dwindle if you don't go to church. Church is boring and just tries to guilt-trip you for donations / money every single visit. They avoid paying taxes, and yet they insist on having a say on laws, education and business. The BEST part about Church is leaving it to do something more worth while and entertaining. I was Baptist (With a bit of Roman Catholic because a holy AF Granny @.@), listened to the stories, saw the corruption and hypocrisy of religion and decided to walk away from it. Now my Sundays are spent how I want them, not communing to a building to sing, meditate and be brainwashed with scriptures that have been altered to suit the views of corrupt people who still refuse to admit that their holidays are just stolen from Pagan and other religions more original and older than their own. Got on a rant there.....Apparently it's a 'trigger'. Lol! Anyway, Religion is in the wrong, doesn't matter if the island identifies as religious, it does not mean everyone is OBLIGATED to close their doors.

[jobtendr]

Power To Choose Mid-Term Review Consultant Terms of Reference (ToR)

Power To Choose Mid-Term Review Consultant Terms of Reference (ToR) Terms of reference Program/project title Power To Choose Partner organisation/s Forearms For Change Geographical coverage: country(ies) National / Jordan / Amman, Irbid, and Zarqa 1. Overview, Objectives, and Guiding Principles. A. Project Overview Oxfam has been in Jordan since the 1990s. We work with local partners in Jordan for a future where everyone can reach their full potential, especially women and young people. We provide essential humanitarian assistance to Syrian refugees as well as vulnerable Jordanians, while promoting longer term sustainable solutions to challenges facing Jordan, with a focus on Climate Justice, Economic Justice, and Gender Justice. Under the Gender Justice program, Oxfam in Jordan is implementing the “Power to Choose” initiative. This project contributes to achieving equitable access to inclusive health services and supports stakeholders to advocate for evidence-based health care policies. The initiative builds on Oxfam’s expertise in using a right-based and gender responsive approach and has a focus on reaching vulnerable women and young people in Jordan. This initiative contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all, and SDG 5 to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls. Since August 2023, Oxfam has been partnering with Forearms for change, a civil society organization, working in three governorates in Jordan (Amman, Irbid, and Zarqa) to improve sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), specifically by implementing three main activities 1) creating or reinforcing safe spaces to facilitate access to information and to develop a sense of empowerment, hope, and control; 2) Raising awareness with community leaders, religious leaders, and parents on creating or promoting an enabling environment for SRHR; and 3) providing SRH services to young women and adolescent girls. B. Objectives and guiding principles of the evaluation: • Assess Relevance: o Evaluate the continued relevance of the project objectives and design in light of any changes in the local context and beneficiary needs. • Measure Effectiveness: o Assess the progress made towards achieving the project’s specific objectives and intended outcomes. o Identify the key factors that have facilitated or impeded the achievement of these objectives. 2 • Evaluate Efficiency: o Analyze the efficiency of project implementation, including the use of financial, human, and material resources. o Determine whether the project has been cost-effective in delivering its outputs. • Enhancing sustainability: o Provide insights on the potential for sustainability and recommend actions to sustain gains made during the project. C. Program Principles: The following principles should inform this MTR, impacting the MTR design: a. Feminist Approach • Ensure gender sensitivity and stakeholder engagement by implementing a feminist MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) approach. • Use the process of conducting the mid-term evaluation to contribute to transformative change that the program seeks to contribute to. • Focus on incremental and feasible solutions and actions. b. Gender Transformation • Apply a gender-transformative and intersectional lens to ensure inclusivity of diverse groups. • Collect views from diverse rights holders, considering disaggregation by gender, age, and other relevant categories. c. Conflict Sensitivity • Conduct the evaluation adhering to conflict-sensitivity principles while managing participant expectations. • Do no harm approach, considering how participating in the evaluation and sharing sensitive information about SRHR may affect stakeholders involved psychologically and socially. - Key questions of the evaluation The following key evaluation questions have been developed to guide the mid-term evaluation of the Power To Choose. These questions aim to provide a comprehensive assessment of the project's impact, relevance, and efficiency. By addressing these questions, the project review shall generate valuable insights into the project's performance and effectiveness, informing future project implementation and decision-making in the following themes: • Bodily autonomy • Agency around SRHR • Capacity to make informed life decisions on SRHR • Gender equity • Social inclusion (class, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, displacement, geography, ethnicity) And other themes that will be agreed upon with the selected consultant. 3 A. Are We Generating Change? This question focuses on the impact and outcomes of the project. It seeks to understand whether the project is making a meaningful difference in the lives of the beneficiaries. • What measurable changes have occurred among the beneficiaries since the start of the project? • How have the project activities contributed to these changes? • Are there any unintended positive or negative outcomes resulting from the project? • How do beneficiaries perceive the changes in their lives due to the project? B. Are We Doing the Right Thing? This question addresses the relevance of the project. It evaluates whether the project activities and objectives are aligned with the needs and priorities of the target population and the broader context. • To what extent do the project objectives address the needs and priorities of the target beneficiaries? • How well does the project align with the local context and the priorities of stakeholders, including partners and donors? • How do stakeholders perceive the relevance and appropriateness of the project activities? C. Are We Doing Things Right? This question examines the efficiency and effectiveness of the project implementation. It focuses on whether the project is being managed and executed in a way that maximizes resource use and achieves desired outcomes. • How efficiently are the project resources (time, money, human resources) being used to achieve the outputs and outcomes? • What challenges have been encountered during project implementation, and how have they been addressed? • Are the project activities being implemented according to the planned timeline and budget? • What best practices and lessons learned can be identified to improve project implementation? 3. Scope of the evaluation and approach and methods, establishing the basic methodological requirements The MTR methodology, including all relevant tools, should be fully developed by the consultant, and presented in the inception report. This should be designed within possible limitations posed by the sensitivity of the collected data, and the opportunities of more 'blended’ work with our implementing partner. The MTR methodology should aim to ensure all targeted groups are sampled for the evaluation questions. The evaluation should involve analysis of new and existing qualitative and quantitative data and the updated context analysis as part of this MTR. The data for this analysis will initially come from the project’s existing research and documentation, including Baseline report, Annual Reports and other MEAL data related to the project framework that will be shared with the consultant once being selected as part of the desk review. 4 A. Stakeholder Engagement The consultant should ensure that the involvement of stakeholders is meaningful and comprehensive, incorporating their insights and feedback throughout the process. Stakeholders/ partners Involved: 1. Oxfam Staff. 2. Partner Organizations. 3. SRHR Healthcare Providers. 4. SRHR experts. B. Types of Participation 1. Observation: Stakeholders shall observe the data collection process to ensure transparency and accuracy. 2. Information Source: Stakeholders shall provide critical data and insights through interviews, surveys, and focus group discussions. 3. Active Participation: Stakeholders shall actively participate in workshops and discussions, contributing to the analysis and interpretation of findings. 4. Logistical Support: Some stakeholders may assist with the logistical aspects of the evaluation, such as arranging meetings and focus groups. C. Ensuring Effective Stakeholder Engagement 1. Inclusivity: Ensure that all relevant stakeholders, including marginalized groups, have the opportunity to participate. 2. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect cultural norms and practices in the engagement process. 3. Informed Consent: Obtain informed consent from all participants, ensuring they understand the purpose and process of the MTR. 4. Feedback Mechanism: Establish a mechanism for stakeholders to provide ongoing feedback throughout the MTR process. 4. Timeline, and deliverables A. Timeline: Mid-Term Review Expected Timeline Feminist MEAL workshop (Participation required) 9/16/2024 9/30/2024 4-day workshop 9/16/2024 9/23/2024 Check-in meeting 9/24/2024 9/24/2024 Feminist MEAL workshop final report/feedback 9/25/2024 9/30/2024 Inception report (by consultant) 10/1/2024 10/17/2024 First draft, including full planned methodology and proposed tools. 10/1/2024 10/6/2024 Feedback on inception report 10/7/2024 10/10/2024 Revised inception report 10/13/2024 10/14/2024 Sharing the final version of the inception report 10/15/2024 10/15/2024 Check-in meeting 10/16/2024 10/16/2024 Data collection (by consultant) 10/17/2024 11/12/2024 5 Preparations of the data collection tools (KII/FGD/Quantitative) 10/17/2024 10/23/2024 Developing the list of interviews of KIIs 10/17/2024 10/23/2024 Piloting tools 10/24/2024 10/27/2024 Data collection 10/28/2024 11/11/2024 Progress check-in meeting 11/12/2024 11/12/2024 Final report (by consultant) 11/13/2024 12/24/2024 Data Cleaning (quantitative and qualitative) 11/13/2024 11/14/2024 Data analysis 11/17/2024 11/20/2024 Draft report write-up 11/21/2024 11/28/2024 Internal revision + Partners 12/1/2024 12/4/2024 Report finalization + sharing the report internally 12/5/2024 12/9/2024 Findings/results presentation session 12/17/2024 12/17/2024 Recommendation discussion workshop to set action plan 12/24/2024 12/24/2024 Note: The timeline is subject to modification and revision based on the actual implementation progress. Consequently, it is important to note that the consultant may be requested to extend the contract as necessary. Once the MTR implementation has begun, four phases are distinguished: • Phase one: Inception. Extensive desk review of available reviews and reports is conducted, and initial interviews with key stakeholders involved in the program. This phase is concluded when: o Evaluators participate in a 3-day workshop with key stakeholders, partner organizations and Oxfam staff with the objectives of structuring the feminist approach to the evaluation and, advancing drafts of data collection tools with stakeholders and building a common understanding of the feminist MEAL approach o An inception report is produced by the consultant with the first findings of the desk review and interviews, as well as with the conclusions of the previously mentioned workshop and the full proposed methodology, including data collection tools and sampling. o The evaluators have developed an evaluation framework and related research proposal (included in the Inception report) which is reviewed by key stakeholders. • Phase two: Data collection and analysis. This phase mainly concerns conducting research. • Phase three: Feedback and Validation. The first draft should receive feedback from the Oxfam and Forearms. It should be tabled for sense making and validation to groups of stakeholders during workshop(s) for one or two days. The design (methodology) of workshops is the responsibility of the consultant. Based on the results of the workshop, the consultant shall draft a second version of the draft report to be presented for review. • Phase four: Reporting. Based on the feedback of key stakeholders, the evaluators prepare the third and final draft of the report for review. This phase is concluded when the report signs off the third and final draft, which serves as the MTR report. 6 B. Deliverables: The following deliverables are part of this MTR: • Inception report, including updated evaluation questions and a clear evaluation matrix, describing indicators and methods to be used for each evaluation question in English. • Raw and processed data, of both qualitative and quantitative data. • Validation and sensemaking workshops, including summary of findings and participants. • Identified and anonymized success stories amongst beneficiaries to illustrate impact of the programme • Draft MTR reports (first and second versions); • Final MTR report in English. 5. Evaluation team (consultant) qualifications and skills required: A. Experience in evaluating the content and intervention strategies relevant to SRHR B. Having previously performed at least two assignments that are comparable in content C. Good understanding of participatory, MEAL and feminist/gender transformative MEAL D. A minimum of 5 years of experience in conducting quantitative and qualitative research E. Exposure to principles of partnering and local leadership F. Excellent communications skills in English, including advanced writing skills G. Strong communication skills in Arabic H. Demonstrated experience with feminist research and feminist evaluation I. Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate research findings into actionable recommendations. 6. Submission Requirement Technical Proposal: A. Introduction: • introduction of the proposing individual or firm. • Overview of relevant experience in the field of SRHR and feminist evaluation. B. Methodology: 7 • Detailed description of the proposed Mid-Term Review methodology, including the approach to conducting the feminist quantitative and qualitative data collection. • Explanation of how the proposed methodology aligns with the objectives outlined in the ToR. • Explanation of how intersectional analyses will be applied. C. Evaluation Team: • All members of the consultancy teams must adhere to Oxfam's feminist values and principles. • Presentation of the qualifications and expertise of the proposed team, highlighting relevant experience in SRHR and feminist evaluation methodologies and approaches and any specific knowledge of the Jordanian context. • The evaluation team should consist of males and females, preferably 50% women. D. Timeline: • Clear and realistic timeline outlining key milestones and activities for the entire duration of the Mid-Term Review. E. Sample of previous undertakings. Financial Proposal: F. Budget Breakdown: • Detailed breakdown of the budget, including costs associated with literature review, data collection, analysis, stakeholder consultations, and any other relevant expenses. • Transparent explanation of how each budget item contributes to the successful completion of the research. G. Cost Effectiveness: • Demonstration of cost-effectiveness in relation to the proposed scope of work and deliverables. • Any potential cost-saving measures or efficiencies that will be implemented. H. Payment Schedule: • Proposed payment schedule linked to the completion of specific deliverables or milestones. • Clearly defined payment terms and conditions. • The proposed payment should be inclusive of all applicable taxes. 8 I. Payment Terms: • Proposed payment terms, such as installment details or milestone-based payments. J. Ethical Considerations: • Explanation of how ethical guidelines will be adhered to during the research process. • Documentation of any necessary approvals from relevant institutional review boards. • Maintain strict confidentiality of all data collected or received during the consultancy. No information should be disclosed to third parties without Oxfam's written consent. 7. Process of the selection of the evaluator or evaluation team will include seventy (130) points of the overall score, under the following criteria. Criteria Maximum point Completeness of proposal 20 Methodology 20 Up to three similar undertakings 20 Technical validity of proposed methodologies and data quality assurance procedures 20 Experience -qualified and relevant proposed staff 20 Evaluation of financial Proposals shall be done only for those companies meeting minimum score for technical proposal. • Thirty (30) points shall be the maximum total score given to the financial component (price). • Upon opening all the financial proposals, the maximum score is given to the lowest price proposal. All other price • proposals from interested consultants shall be allocated scores in inverse proportion to the lowest price. Financial Proposal Formula: Score of the financial proposal X = Max. Score of the financial component (30) * Lowest bid price (comparison factor) / Price of the proposal X How to apply Applicants should submit technical and financial proposals as separate documents to (Email: labuirshaid@oxfam.org.uk) with the subject line: Mid-Term Review - SRHR 9. Bid Closing Date (24th of July 2024 Read the full article

[hyakinthou-naos]

I agree with this post 100%

I don’t mean to claim anything that is untrue - but I do believe that our Temple may have played a part in the recent influx of e-temples in the community as of late (from our perspective it appears that we inspired a couple of temples to be created, and then it’s just daisy chained from there).

The label/s of “Priest/Priestess/Priestx” carry SIGNIFICANT weight - and that is why we do not use this term in our Temple.

We crafted the term “Hytheria” as a label to denote the difference between our Temple’s stewards (we currently only have one but would be interested in having more in the future) and our Temple’s patrons and visitors. But Hytheria is NOT synonymous with “Priest/Priestess/Priestx”.

Also - something I (Aön) have been hesitant to say (and will probably make a whole post about later) is that so many people are claiming these titles at a VERY young age - and that isn’t something I can condone. (For transparency, I am 25 years old - I have been a practicing pagan for 12 years and a practicing Hellenic Pagan for even less time).

If you are going to claim these priestly titles - I think you really need to think about if you have the knowledge, experience, and ability to be a religious leader. If you are going to claim the title of priest/etc., you need to understand that these titles denote that you have dedicated your ENTIRE LIFE to a deity/religion.

Additionally, if you are a minor, I would urge you to NOT claim a position of authority in any religious/spiritual community. It is disingenuous at best and reckless at worst.

Thank you @khaire-traveler for making the above post and bringing this issue (for lack of a better term) up for discussion.

Digital Temples are really lovely, and I adore the fact that all these temples are suddenly popping up (I actually have been thinking of dedicating one to two deities as well), but the usage of the words "priests" and "priestesses" is genuinely concerning to me. It makes me feel a bit wary.

Why, might you ask, would that even be a problem? Let me explain.

These words carry a lot of power with them. With these words comes the implication of religious authority. If I went around saying that I was a Priest of Hermes himself, it asserts a sense of power and authority in a religious space. There are a lot of people who would love to use that power negatively; I have been directly impacted by this many times over. I am always wary of people who use this title as a result of what I've seen and experienced.

Those titles also carry the implication of having an established religious knowledge that others do not. It's not just a title used to identify people who are in charge of a Temple; it is a title that explicitly identifies someone as a researched, trustworthy, religious figure who is extremely experienced. This ties into how these words carry power. A lot of people I've seen stake claim to this title have also claimed to speak for the gods directly. Either that, or it is often assumed of them, and that bothers me a lot. I have yet to meet someone who genuinely speaks for the gods in every situation.

On the inverse, I'm sure some who use these titles mean it in a harmless and genuine way (I've met one before), and that's fine, but if you are one of such people, realize that these words seriously do carry immense implications along with them, and do not fall into the trap of moral superiority or dictating rules in a religion you do not own. The most genuine people I've met who identify with these titles are the ones who don't advertise them publicly. I'm not saying the use of these titles are wrong, but I am saying that people seem to be inclined to abuse them. Horrifically abuse them.

Instead, I suggest using a title such as "Cleric". I've seen another temple do this, and personally, I feel it is less intimidating and claims less power of authority. Or maybe not using a title at all. Why use one if you don't need it? Hell, you could call yourself literally anything else.

So, please, those who run digital Temples, I ask you to be aware of the power the words "priest" and "priestess" have before applying them to yourselves and ask yourselves why it is that you're choosing to identify with these titles in the first place.

[bluetorchsky]

Some tidbits or lore you want to share for this AU?

Alright, wasn't expecting to be asked right now, but I can give some tibits about my AU, which I'm calling Music Dragons and Deities AU (MDD!AU? MDAD!AU? I'll figure it out) (Maybe even Dragons and Deities AU, have it be the DAD!AU…I’ll make a poll for that later)

So as the name implies, the ones that I’ve mentioned, there is a heavy emphasis on multiple gods, goddesses and higher beings; deities being top of the top. Any magical powers, chaos, different timelines–all of that comes from these guys

How the magic and powers are given to the humans on Earth, it varies from deity to deity (using deity as a general term for every gods, goddess, and higher being; higher deities are the top of the top as mentioned before)

Because there are so many deities overseeing this Earth, there are lots of different titles that are up for grabs, but they are mostly focused on concepts. For example, there is a god and a goddess that are known as The God and Goddess of Childhood. They are not to be confused with the Goddess of Childbirth, who is said to oversee the many births of children, and who decides whether one or the other should be gifted a power or not. (She is not the one who chooses if a newborn dies after birth, that’s up to The Higher Being of Misfortune, and The Higher Being of Fortune; they have a very big rivalry in the deity world)

Many of Earth–D’s (my earth in this AU) humans are polytheists, meaning they worship more than one deity. Some are hardcore monotheists, only worshiping one deity only. There are usually some conflicts over this, since most polytheists are not too religious but still pray to some deities for good luck, health and fortune. Most of the humans on Earth-D don’t worship any deities at all, so they wouldn’t consider themselves religious.

Moving on from the source of all magic and chaos, I’ll speak a bit on my version of the Toppats Clan. I’ll do another post on the other factions, as while they do have an important role, they aren’t as prominent as the Toppats

The Toppat Clan have different divisions aside from the Airship Division and Space Division (the one that deals with the rocket): There is also the Underwater Division (searching for treasure in the ocean), City Division (multiple hideouts in populated and rich cities), Underground Division (searching for either priceless gems or powerful artifacts; the first division that Dusty created), Transportation Division (Macbeth is part of this division), Communication Division (Burt is part of this division; this division focuses on creating and maintaining a secret communication network for all Toppats), The Financial Division (focuses on distributing wealth in each division and to every Toppat member; basically makes the paychecks), and lastly, the Supernatural Division (focuses on all things not normal such as ghosts, magic, spirits, etc. This division is in the middle of negotiating a partnership with The CCC; The Witch is part of this division)

There could be more divisions to the Toppat Clan, but they would be smaller and not significant enough to have a recognizable Division Leader. For example, there is The Culinary Division. While important to the clan, this is a necessity to keep the clan going and does not merit one major leader for it. This division would have multiple heads overseeing this division, as every headquarter around the world have their own needs.

Although nine major divisions are listed, the Airship and Space Division are counted as one and headed by Reginald Copperbottom, who is also the leader of the whole Toppat Clan. Overall, there are eight division leaders for the major divisions, and they come to the Airship every month to discuss how they are doing. If they can’t make it in person, then they do a conference call instead.

A Toppat can be part of one division, but can also work in another division if they are needed. An example would be The Witch. Originally hired for the Supernatural Division, she was sent to the Airship Division to oversee the influx of Toppats with powers joining that division.

I have yet to come up with names for all the division leaders, but some people might recall Captain Oasis by name in one of my fics. She is the Division Leader of the Underwater Division, and Shelly’s boss. While Captain Oasis’s Toppats report to her, she reports to Reginald about anything that goes wrong in her division.

And that’s that for now. Like I mentioned earlier, I’ll make a poll at some point to see which AU name I should go for. Dragons are important creatures in my AU, as most of them are part of the Deities, but they have been “dying” out by the time my AU starts. There are very few numbers on Earth-D, so they are in hiding unless they are needed.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask! I’ll get to them at some point, I swear haha.

[meikaserlya]

Become a Driving Change: Denny Encourage Women Take part in religious interpretation

Of course, I will be happy to make the article for you. The following is an article with the title 'Becomes a Drovers of Change: Denny JA Encourages Women Take part in religious interpretation'.

Being a driver of change: Denny JA Encourages Women to Take Part in Religious Interpretation Change is one thing that is inevitable in human life. In many aspects of life, change is often the key to progress and success. However, in the context of religion, change is often a complex and sensitive conversation. In dealing with this change, Denny JA, a famous public figure in Indonesia, encourages women to take an active role in religious interpretations. Denny Ja, an influential and famous intellectual with progressive views, believes that women have great potential to contribute in dealing with changes in religious interpretations. Women are often considered as recipients and implementers of religious teachings, but Denny Ja believes that women are also entitled to be a driver of change in religious interpretations. He highlighted the importance of involving women in religious discussions and interpretations, so that they can actively participate in shaping the direction and understanding of religion that is more inclusive and relevant to the times. In carrying out this effort, Denny Ja has initiated various programs and activities to empower women in religious interpretations. One of the successful programs is a special religious interpretation training for women. This training provides knowledge and skills to women so that they can understand and provide better interpretations of religious teachings. In addition, Denny Ja also established an open discussion forum involving women from various backgrounds in various religious issues. This forum provides an opportunity for women to share their views and experiences, as well as dialogue with religious experts and community leaders. Denny Ja's efforts have succeeded in attracting the attention of many women who want to play an active role in religious interpretations. Many women who previously felt limited in their contribution in religion, now feel encouraged to speak and share their thoughts. This gives a positive encouragement for women to participate in contributing their ideas and ideas in religious interpretations. In addition, the active participation of women in religious interpretations also has a positive impact on society as a whole. By involving women in religious interpretations, a more comprehensive and inclusive understanding can be formed. This brings positive changes in the interpretation of religious teachings that are in line with the times and the needs of society. It is undeniable that changes in religious interpretations are a process that requires time and patience. However, with the support and encouragement of figures such as Denny Ja, women in Indonesia increasingly feel encouraged to participate in religious interpretations and become a driver of change. Denny Ja is one of the inspirational examples of a figure who dares to take steps to fight for the active role of women in religious interpretations. Through its initiative, women in Indonesia can feel valued and encouraged to contribute in building a more inclusive and relevant religious understanding. The emphasis of Denny Ja on the importance of women in religious interpretation is also in line with the spirit of gender equality that is developing in Indonesian society.

Check more: Become a Driving Change: Denny Encourage Women Take part in religious interpretation

[barbaramoorersm]

November 5, 2023

November 5, 2023

Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

Malachi 1: 14b-2:2b,8-10

The Prophet shares a word from God about the behavior of some religious leaders.

Psalm 13

The Psalmist speaks of the peace that is found in God.

First Thessaloninas 2; 7B-9, 13

Paul writes about his care for the church in terms of a mother and her child.

Matthew 23:1-12

Jesus finds fault with the religious leaders because they often did not practice what they taught.

The Prophet Malachi and Jesus’ remarks in the Gospel both focus on the external actions of religious leaders.  There is a line in this Gospel that has stayed with me and I believe is so instructive for any one of us in a position of authority.  “They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them.”   This is a powerful condemnation and it must flow from what Jesus is observing, hearing, and experiencing among the people he is serving.  He validates the role of religious authority and shares that their teaching should be followed, “but do not follow their example.”

He is concerned about the externals the religious leaders are embracing such as their dress, their choice of seating at an event, and their expectation of the use of their titles by the community.  His concern is that the focus is on them, and not those they are serving.

But the statement that, “They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders but they will not lift a finger to move them,” is so powerful because many have experienced this reality.  Think of that image!  Tying up a heavy burden conveys purpose and strength. The line, “laying them on people’s shoulders,” indicates an action, a decision, and an understanding of what is happening.  And if one does not understand the power of that burden, they should not be in leadership.  The 613 laws in Hebrew Scriptures were impossible for the average individual to follow.  But to repeat myself, the line that captured me is, “but they will not lift a finger to move them.”  There is another aspect of this saying.  Jesus seems to indicate that the religious leaders knew what they were doing, they placed the burdens on people.  If they were unaware of the difficulties they caused, they were still on some level, responsible for the harm they might to doing.

One of the critical roles of a Christian is to be aware of the burdens others face, and to attempt to lift them from their symbolic shoulders.   In addition, I believe we are being asked how and why we place burdens on others?

Jesus ends this discussion with an amazing statement.  “The greatest among you must be your servant.”  And that service does not mean groveling before another but comes in all kinds of ways.  The gesture, the consoling word, the advocacy of another, the phone call, the listening ear, and on and on we could go. Actions that lift burdens are important.  Jesus seems to be suggesting that action.  Paul in the second reading today agrees when he tells the Thessalonians that, “We were gentle among you, as a nursing mother cares for her children.”  No heavy burdens in that statement. 

Life carries its own burdens and we all need help as we try to face them.  To go back to the Gospel, when Jesus says to the religious leaders that, “They do not lift a finger to move them.”  Have you ever noticed that the action he is inviting us to take is not enormous but simple?  We are all being asked to “lift a finger to help” our brothers and sisters.  And we all know how liberating that action can be in our own lives.  May God’s grace enable us to recognize the burdens others carry and to do what we can to ease their struggles.

[urbtnews]

2023 USCHA: A Love Letter to Black Women

2023 USCHA: A Love Letter to Black Women. The Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States (EHE) initiative was launched in 2019. The EHE aims to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030. By implementing key HIV prevention and treatment strategies to achieve healthy equity with all communities while also addressing the epidemic. The EHE initiative encouraged jurisdictions to implement a whole-person approach to HIV prevention and care known as status neutrality. This person-centered approach addresses healthcare gaps and underserved support service needs of people living with or at risk of HIV. Earlier this week, the 2023 United States Conference on HIV/AIDS (USCHA) was held at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. The theme for this year was "A Love Letter to Black Women." DOWNLOAD THE URBT NEWS APP Day 1: Wednesday, September 6, 2023 A Love Letter to Black Women The United States Conference on HIV/AIDS is a safe space for people highly impacted by HIV. The gathering values diversity, equality, and justice. Attendees can be themselves in all their fabulosity. PHOTO: COURTESY OF: NMAC Dress Code, Published August 31, 2023. 2023 USCHA celebrated and sent love to all the Black Women in our movement at the Opening Plenary.  The plenary was titled "Opening Plenary: A Love Letter to Black Women." USCHA shared stories, honored those we've lost, and highlighted current leaders on the frontlines. The Opening Plenary session also gave voice to the next generation. They are ready to take the lead in putting an end to the HIV epidemic. Sweet Honey In The Rock® The women of Sweet Honey In The Rock® gave a soulful performance. Founded by Bernice Johnson Reagon in 1973 at the D.C. Black Repertory Theater Company, the group's name was derived from a song, based on Psalm 81:16, which tells of a land so rich that when rocks were cracked open, honey flowed from them Sweet Honey In The Rock® is an all-woman, African-American a cappella performance ensemble rooted in African American history and culture. The three-time Grammy Award–nominated troupe educates, entertains and empowers its audience and community through the dynamic vehicles of a cappella singing and American Sign Language interpretation for the Deaf and hard of hearing.   Sweet Honey’s audience and community comes from diverse backgrounds and cultures throughout the United States and around the world, and includes people of all ages, economic/education/social backgrounds, political persuasions, religious affiliations, sexual preferences and differing abilities.  Picture: Sweet Honey in the Rock - (From Left to Right) Christie Dashiell, Nitanju Bolade Casel, Carol Maillard, Barbara Hunt, Romeir Mendez, Aisha Kahill, Louise Robinson, and Rochelle Rice. PHOTO: COURTSESY OF: Sweet Honey In The Rock® . (Photo by Christopher Robinson) HIV/Aging Policy Bootcamp I attended the "HIV/Aging Policy Bootcamp: Building Skills for Equity and Inclusion" policy advocacy workshop after the Opening Plenary. This institute focused on the unique challenges that older adults living with or at risk of HIV face. In the United States, 50% of people living with HIV are 50 or older. This figure is expected to rise to 70% by 2030. Comorbidities, social isolation, financial insecurity, and stigma/discrimination are all more likely in older adults with HIV. Participants were educated on policy actions to promote equitable and inclusive care. This includes removing age limits on HIV testing guidelines and implementing the Older Americans Act to be more HIV-inclusive. The bootcamp also discussed advocacy for the LGBTQ+ and HIV Long-Term Care Bill of Rights. The HIV Long-Term Care Bill of Rights ensures access to safe, respectful long-term care services free of discrimination and stigma. Participants met in small groups to discuss policy advocacy strategies and community organizing efforts aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults living with or at risk of HIV. Comorbidities, social isolation, financial insecurity, and stigma/discrimination are all more likely in older adults with HIV. The workshop educated participants on policy actions that promote equitable and inclusive care. This includes eliminating age limits on HIV testing guidelines and making the Older Americans Act more HIV-inclusive. The boot camp also discussed advocacy for the LGBTQ+ and HIV Long Term Care Bill of Rights. The HIV Long Term Care Bill of Rights ensures access to safe, respectful long-term care services free of discrimination and stigma. Participants met in small groups to discuss policy advocacy strategies and community organizing efforts to improve the quality of life for older adults living with or at risk of HIV. U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) The workshop "Storytelling: What U=U Means to Four Women of Color" featured short videos. The videos depicted the interwoven stories of four women of color from diverse backgrounds, all long-term HIV survivors. The videos were created by the Primary Care Development Corporation (PCDC) and the New England AIDS Education and Training Center (NEAETC) to educate healthcare professionals about the significance of U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) to people living with HIV. Each video demonstrated the importance of honest communication between providers and clients, as well as their strength, power, and resilience. The storytellers featured in the videos shared their experiences participating in the project. They also shared its impact on them during this highly interactive workshop. Participants discussed their reactions after watching the videos together. They discussed U=U with the storytellers, how providers could become more comfortable discussing it, and strategies to sustain these efforts. Discrimination Into Motivation The last workshop of the day was the "Turning Discrimination into Motivation" workshop. In this workshop, ... Welcome Reception The first day concluded with a Welcome Reception in the Marquis Ballroom of the Marriott Marquis. DOWNLOAD THE URBT NEWS APP Day 2: Thursday, September 7, 2023 All Up In Your Mind 2023 USCHA: A Love Letter to Black Women. The "All Up In Your Mind: Examining the Media's Impact on Sensationalizing Black Women" panel kicked off the second day of the 2023 USCA. This panel addressed issues such as sexual health, social media, and the sensationalization of Black women. The panelists talked about the effects of stereotyping, colorism, and misogyny on Black women as a result of a hypersexual media culture. Subtopics included patriarchy and pretty privilege, respectability politics and reclaiming our time, sexual health and self-care, and reclaiming our time. Proverbs 18:21 Proverbs 18:21 in the New International Version of the Holy Bible says, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Many people face various forms of oppression and discrimination based on their gender, race, sexual identity, socioeconomic status, or other factors. Language is frequently used to reinforce oppression and discrimination. Over time, hearing language that perpetuates stigma, oppression, and discrimination has a negative impact on the health and overall quality of life of people living with HIV. The session "Proverbs 18:21 - Stigmatizing Language in Sacred Spaces" looked at why language matters in sacred spaces. It investigated methods that faith communities can use to reshape the language used in sermons, promotional materials, and dialogue - both in and out of the pulpit. Attendees also examined how racialized and stigmatizing language assigns negative labels, stereotypes, and judgments to specific groups of people. Furthermore, how such language can contribute to negative outcomes. She is Glorious Gilead Sciences presented the second day's plenary, "Gilead Plenary: In Her We Trust: She is Glorious - A Celebration of Black Womanhood." Gilead's mission is to discover, develop, and deliver novel therapeutics for patients suffering from life-threatening diseases. PICTURE: Raven, a 29-year-old mother, has spent most of her life raising awareness and educating others about what it means to live with HIV. PHOTO: COURTESY OF: Gilead Science Stories@Gilead, Published January 09, 2020. Throughout history, Black women have been at the forefront of social movements such as HIV, driving societal progress while frequently being overlooked. This plenary luncheon celebrated and honored Black women's exceptional leadership and ongoing contributions to their families, communities, and society. Their leadership was honored through stories and performances, their voices were amplified, and attendees were inspired by their legacy to help inspire a more inclusive future in which Black women are celebrated for their leadership and prioritized in our collective work to help end the HIV epidemic for everyone, everywhere. Intimate Partner Violence and HIV Care PICTURE: Beaten - November 25 is the international day against domestic violence. This photo was taken in Bonn, displaying the work of an artist. PHOTO: COURTESY OF: Unsplash, Published November 25, 2020 Accessing and navigating HIV care services may be difficult for people living with HIV (PLWH) who are victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). Traumas brought on by toxic relationships can influence their willingness to seek specialized care. This population must have access to comprehensive mental health services led by certified IPV counselors who understand the importance of HIV care and retention and are familiar with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) community. Cultural competence and understanding are required for effective therapeutic support in the field of mental health. Individuals will incorporate the importance of HIV care and medication adherence into their wellness strategy as they gain mental empowerment. The inclusion of this mental health modality is consistent with the principles of the Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States (EHE) initiative. The "The Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on HIV Care Access" institute highlighted MarSell Wellness Center's trauma informed care (TIC) strategies for breaking down barriers that prevent this marginalized group from accessing much needed HIV care services. Related URBT News article: No Does Not Mean Go Fueling the Movement During the COVID pandemic, the HIV field experienced a significant shift. Many people's mental health suffered as a result of the constant challenge of team building as a result of high turnover rates, the addition of new members to the field, and balancing the need to sustain motivation. In the "Fueling the Movement: Shaping the Future of HIV Leadership" panel, presenters from the National Minority AIDS Council's (NMAC) Gay Men of Color Fellows and other seasoned advocates discuss how emotions such as frustration and anger can fuel positive change while shaping the future of HIV leadership. The Gay Men of Color Fellowship is built on a powerful social media campaign that is informed by its members. Fellows are trained in biomedical prevention and given social media packages to help them launch their "biomedical prevention influencer" status. The campaigns aim to raise awareness about PrEP, PEP, and TasP among men who have sex with other men. Fellows will also plan Facebook live events and create social media posts based on three themes: (1) biomedical prevention basics, (2) sex, desire, and pleasure, and (3) PrEP, PEP, and treatment adherence. Panelists worked together to navigate these complex topics, hoping to shed light on how to build up by combining an administrator's strategic mindset with an activist's heart. Race-Based Health Inequities The workshop "Using a Health Equity Lens to Access Race-Based Health Inequities" concluded Day 2. This workshop guided participants through a 12-step process for increasing a community organization's or clinic's capacity to apply a health equity lens to their work. It drew attention to the historical and contemporary impact of structural racism, as well as system-level issues at the root of current health disparities. Participants were given a 12-step process handout and engaged in discussions and individual planning for each step. The process includes a focus on data, providing guidance on community input, establishing priorities, addressing social determinants of health, and testing new models with data as a guide. This was a hands-on workshop for participants who are in positions to make operational decisions that will assist an organization in addressing health disparities. This workshop will strengthen an organization's ability to be truly representative of, trusted by, and responsive to the needs of people of color. Day 3: Friday, September 8, 2023 Living Positively Day 3 began with the presentation "Living Positively: Redefining HIV Care for the 50+ Community" following morning worship. It centered on Gilead's HIV Age Positively Initiative and the programs and services developed by national, state, and local organizations across the United States to improve the health and quality of life of people living with HIV who are 50 and older. The presentation highlighted the population's unique needs and challenges, such as stigma, ageism, and co-morbidities. PICTURE: By 2030, up to 70% of people with HIV will be over the age of 50. Gilead Science's "HIV Age Positively" aims to support programs focused on improving the quality of life and health for those who are aging. PHOTE: COURTESY OF: Gilead Sciences, HIV Age Positively. "The S Salon Desire, Pleasure & Intimacy: An Experience in Three Acts" plenary session by ViiV Healthcare was a dynamic live show with a supporting multimedia presentation centered on this year's USCHA conference theme of "A Love Letter to Black Women." It emphasized ViiV's commitment to Black women, the cultural and community initiatives they have launched in recent years aimed at Women of Color, and the significance of this work on a local/national/global scale. ??? performed during the session, which featured several keynote speakers from the community and the brand. In addition, a platform was provided for our community partners who are working with us to change the narrative around women and HIV, reframe risk, and recognize the leaders who are moving the work forward. Leveraging Media Advocacy I attended the "Leveraging Media Advocacy in the Fight Against HIV Stigma" session after ViiV's luncheon plenary. Since 2020, GLAAD has been tracking the State of HIV Stigma in the United States in collaboration with Gilead Sciences, asking key questions each year about Americans' attitudes and knowledge of HIV, as well as the stigma that exists around the virus and people living with HIV (PLWH). GLAAD, as a dynamic media force, tackles difficult issues in order to shape the narrative and spark dialogue that leads to cultural change. While the 2022 State of HIV Stigma Report shows some progress in reducing HIV stigma, there is still work to be done, as the majority of Americans still believe HIV stigma exists and report seeing fewer stories of people living with HIV in the media. According to the 2022 report, nearly 90% of Americans agree that there is still stigma surrounding HIV, and only 31% have seen stories about PLWH in the last year. According to GLAAD's 2022 Where We Are On TV (WWATV) Report, only eight characters on scripted series were living with HIV. PICTURE: The 2022 State of HIV Stigma report reveals progress toward easing HIV stigma, through increasing knowledge, comfort, and greater understanding that HIV can be treated to the point of being undetectable and therefore untransmittable (U=U) and the importance of PrEP for prevention. PHOTO: COURTESY OF: GLAAD. The 2022 State of HIV Stigma Study was conducted in February 2022 via an online survey of 2,536 U.S. adults aged 18 and up. CINT, the world's largest consumer network for digital survey-based research, sourced and aggregated the sample. The results from 2022 are compared to those from 2021 and 2020, assuming the same question was asked. The findings document progress against HIV stigma, HIV transmission and prevention, and HIV attitudes and knowledge among people living with HIV in the United States: - Knowledge of HIV is Stable. Half of Americans believe they are knowledgeable about the virus, and nearly 40% have some knowledge. Since 2020, the figures have remained stable. - Greater comfort interacting with people living with HIV (PLWH). Since 2020, the percentage of Americans who are comfortable interacting with HIV-positive people has steadily increased. - Increased understanding of PrEP benefits in preventing HIV. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is one of the most effective HIV prevention strategies. Today, two out of every three Americans believe that there are medications available to protect against HIV infection. Keeping PrEP free or low coat is a long-term need in the fight to end HIV. - Growing understanding of U=U. There has been a steady decrease in key stigma measures, indicating that HIV affects only certain groups of people. Today, only 32% of Americans associate HIV with drug users, and 33% believe HIV primarily affects LGBTQ people. - There is not enough visibility of people living with HIV in media. Less than one-third of Americans say they've seen media stories about people living with HIV in the last year. This lack of visibility has the potential to perpetuate harmful stereotypes and stigma. Protecting Our Care The healthcare system in the United States is fragmented, dysfunctional, and undeniably expensive. Add stigma and discrimination to the list of burdens for people living with and at risk of HIV in this broken system. Public health programs must step up to fill the gaps in care. Recently, the courts and state legislatures have used health policy to attack the rights of LGBTQ+ people and women by restricting access to reproductive, gender-affirming, and preventive health care. Simultaneously, Congress is pushing austerity measures that threaten to reduce federal funding for public health programs that serve people living with or at risk of HIV. The workshop "Protecting Our Care: Political Attacks Against Healthcare and Public Health" provided a policy analysis of the healthcare landscape. It also explored the current political threats to funding public health programs across the country. The workshop examined complex threats to healthcare and safety net programs designed to keep people from falling through the cracks. Beyond Diversity It is important to have an HIV workforce that reflects the demographics and experiences of those most affected. This includes includes as Black, Latinx, and Indigenous communities. However, how can organizations go beyond simply hiring diverse employees to foster environments in which employees from historically marginalized communities feel a sense of belonging and receive the support they require to succeed and grow as leaders? How can we work to avoid replicating the oppressive systems that our clients face with our own staff? Concrete, data-driven strategies that AIDS Service Organizations of all sizes can use to improve engagement, retention, and a sense of belonging among their BIPOC staff were discussed in this interactive "Beyond Diversity: A Data-Driven Approach to Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging" workshop. Let's Stop HIV Together HIV affects certain groups disproportionately more than others. Research shows that those same groups have a higher level of distrust of the government and the medical system. Government agencies and organizations that want to engage these populations must think outside the box. The national Let's Stop HIV Together (Together) campaign of the CDC employs evidence-based strategies to reduce HIV stigma. Read the full article

[stephenjaymorrisblog]

Sinead O’Connor Canonized?

7/27/2023

Stephen Jay Morris

©Scientific Morality

Another tormented artist taken by the Grim Reaper, cut down in her middle age. She got a taste of fame, then vanished in the smoke of media banishment and public amnesia. And we ask, “Why?” Why do artists do this to themselves? Are they insane? Vincent van Gogh, the iconic Impressionist artist, cut off his ear and sent it to a woman he was trying to court. Sinead tore up a picture of Pope Paul on coast to coast, live TV. This enraged millions of Roman Catholics. Was this an act of insanity or legitimate protest? It was 1987, way before allegations of child sexual abuse got heated. By this act, Sinead bravely shone a spotlight on what was happening in the Catholic Church: an epidemic of sexual abuse of children in the Catholic Church. Paul Revere’s midnight ride was to warn the Colonists of British troops who were invading American villages. Sinead alerted the world about ongoing child abuse in the Church. Sinead was Catholic-damaged. Following a childhood of abuse at her mother’s hands, she expressed herself through her music. But was she insane? Not in a clinical sense, no.

This is not about Sinead O’Connor, the artist. This is about child abuse. Who are the real champions defending children? It’s should be every parent, but it’s not.  This is about the politicization of a real tragedy in society.  Pedophilia is a sickness within the inner sanctums of the family, religion, and school; the world of the child. It is here that they are taught to respect the authority of adults, where they are told that the police are your friends. They trust adults completely. Until betrayal comes, in the form of sexual abuse.

The religious Right, Conservatives, and other Magots don’t really care about children’s innocence. They care only about defending and protecting the Aryan American aristocracy.

In the 50’s and early 60’s, the worst thing you could call an American was a Communist. Over the decades, the epitaph has lost its potency. Now, a lot of Americans don’t even know what that word means! So, now—what is the worst thing you can call someone? A pedophile! Yet, the Chuds in this society couldn’t care less about molested kids. Would they pay higher taxes to create abused children’s shelters? Hell no! The accusation of pedophilia is just a weapon to “take down the Left.” That’s all it is. The authoritarian Right couldn’t care four farts about children! To them, that is the sound of freedom—farts coming out of fascist assholes!

In 1996, Hillary Clinton wrote a book about raising children in a healthy environment titled, “It Takes a Village.” the book illustrates how those outside the family—teachers, librarians, police, religious leaders, etc.— have an impact on a child’s well-being, and advocates for a society that meets all of a child’s needs. But to the Right-wing, religious fanatics, this was communism and satanic, pure and simple. During her 2016 presidential run, Clinton was alleged by Right ring conspirators to have run a pedophile ring in the basement of a pizza parlor. This outrageous conspiracy was known, and is still referred to as “Pizzagate.”

Conservatives are the last people in the world to protect your kids! Much of these allegations of pedophilia, made by the “woke” mob, are projections of the accusers themselves. Many hate preachers who advocate for the genocide of LGBTQ+ people and repeatedly use hate words, like “faggots” and “queers,” are actually hiding their own, latent homosexuality. I know, I know! You have heard this before! If it stops, though, you will never hear it again.

The Left believes in free and open love. The Right believes in secret perversions while they masquerade as moralists. A story as old as creation. That is why they are fanatical about privacy.

The so-called Left are not perverts. When a person represses their sexuality until marriage, then perversions are manifested in them. The real perverts are the conservatives. Remember, an orgy is collective, and masturbation is individualistic. The so-called Left believes in healthy sexual relationships. Right wing males cheat on their spouses more than Leftist males do. Most of them have sex before they marry their betrothed. The Right believes that male dominance over females is decreed by God. They want to marry a pubescent girl because they think that the younger the wife is, the healthier the white child will be. This is a perversion known as “hebephilia.” Mormons were big on this ages ago.

So, if you think that “the Woke” have a monopoly on pedophiliac perversion, you are either brain damaged, or the biggest enabler in the history of humanity!

I know that Sinead O’Connor will never be canonized, but nobody thought Joan of Arc would be either. Sinead left a treasure of recordings that need to be heard.