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The Smithsonian's exhibition "The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture" has become a focal point of controversy after being criticized in a Trump executive order for its examination of how sculpture has reinforced racist ideologies. The exhibition, which displays 82 sculptures dating from 1792 to 2023, aims to encourage transparent dialogue about race and racism through art history. In response to the criticism, the Smithsonian has begun reviewing content across its museums, raising concerns about potential limitations on candid discussions of American history. The exhibition features works like "The Wounded Scout, a Friend in the Swamp" and "The Dying Tecumseh," prompting viewers to consider how these sculptures shaped racial narratives despite their seemingly progressive messages.

The Trump administration has suspended Biden-era regulations requiring insurers to disclose restrictions on mental health claims and has cut funding to the agency enforcing mental health parity laws. These actions coincide with alarming health trends, including a surge in drug deaths among seniors and significant racial disparities in premature deaths. The Employee Benefits Security Administration is experiencing substantial workforce reductions, with investigative staff already cut by nearly 40% in some regions, leaving families struggling to receive coverage for mental health treatment. While some local initiatives like CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield's behavioral health grants demonstrate positive impacts, they cannot replace the national oversight being dismantled as part of a broader trend of unwinding Biden-era healthcare protections.

Recent research presented at the U.S. Black Chambers Annual Conference reveals strong consumer support for clearly identified Black-owned businesses across demographic groups. April Jeffries from Ipsos and Ron Busby Jr. from ByBlack shared findings from a 4,500-participant study showing positive responses to a "Certified for Future Generations Prosperity" seal, particularly in health and beauty, clothing, and fresh food categories. The research identified Houston, Dallas, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Oakland, and Washington, D.C. as markets with strongest support, suggesting certification could provide Black-owned businesses with a competitive advantage. ByBlack's certification process, requiring businesses to be at least 51% Black-owned, U.S.-headquartered, and operational for at least two years, offers the verification consumers seek when making purchasing decisions.

The FBI conducted searches of former national security adviser John Bolton's home and office as part of an investigation reportedly related to classified information handling. Bolton, who has been a vocal critic of President Trump since leaving his administration in 2019, previously authored a memoir that the Trump administration claimed contained classified information. While FBI officials have provided limited details about the investigation, Vice President JD Vance confirmed it relates partly to classified documents but denied it was politically motivated. No charges have been filed against Bolton, who has not yet commented on the searches.

Erik and Lyle Menendez, who have spent decades in prison for killing their parents in 1989, were denied parole after separate hearings in California this week. Both brothers' parole denials were primarily based on their behavior in prison, including rule violations such as unauthorized mobile phone use, rather than the original crimes. Despite claiming self-defense based on alleged abuse by their father, the parole commissioners cited concerns about anti-social personality traits and institutional misconduct that suggested they might break rules in society. Family members spoke in support of the brothers during the hearings, with many expressing forgiveness and willingness to help with their reintegration.

San Diego's use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) has sparked concerns about potential data sharing with federal immigration authorities, despite California law SB 34 prohibiting such sharing. The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) has recently come under scrutiny after a Privacy Advisory Board report revealed compliance issues, including unauthorized access to ALPR data by outside agencies and data sharing with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. While SDPD insists they have no intention of aiding federal immigration enforcement, community members in predominantly Hispanic and immigrant neighborhoods worry about increased surveillance, especially given the current administration's aggressive deportation measures. Critics also question the $12 million, five-year surveillance contract with private companies Ubicquia Inc. and Flock Safety, arguing the funds could better serve community needs.

The Henry Ford museum near Detroit is showcasing important Civil Rights artifacts, including Rosa Parks' bus and a desk used by Martin Luther King Jr. for planning voting rights marches. Curator Amber Mitchell explains that such exhibits help tell collective stories about American society, particularly for those who didn't experience these historical events firsthand. However, the Trump administration's rules could potentially restrict public access to similar artifacts at federal sites by prohibiting content considered "divisive" that acknowledges the significant impact of racism in American history.

A national study from Binghamton University and California State University, San Bernardino reveals that Black households spend a significantly higher percentage of their income on energy costs compared to white households, even at the same income levels. Researchers found that households in majority African American census tracts spend an average of 5.1% of income on energy bills versus the national average of 3.2%, with factors including older housing stock and lower homeownership rates contributing to this disparity. These energy burdens force families to make difficult tradeoffs between utilities and other essentials like food and medicine, leading to serious health consequences including increased risks of asthma, depression, and even premature death. In Washington D.C., the situation is particularly severe, with SNAP-eligible households spending over 20% of their income on energy bills and utility companies implementing consecutive rate hikes that have resulted in thousands of service disconnections.

Recent polling shows the Democratic Party facing its worst favorability ratings in over 30 years, with more than 60% of Americans viewing Democrats unfavorably. Despite disliking Trump's economic handling, voters still trust Republicans more on economic issues, and Trump made significant gains with Black and brown voters in the 2024 election. Democratic strategists argue that the party must use the August congressional recess to reconnect with constituents through direct engagement rather than simply opposing Trump. Meanwhile, Republicans are implementing a comprehensive strategy to secure power through redistricting efforts and a proposed census change that would exclude undocumented immigrants from congressional apportionment.

State Senator Akilah Weber Pierson of California's 39th Senate District has released a statement opposing Texas's redistricting plan, which she claims is backed by the Trump administration to add five new Republican congressional districts. She argues that this plan threatens fair representation and could negatively impact communities beyond Texas's borders. Senator Weber Pierson justifies California's response as necessary to protect democratic integrity and the economic welfare of its residents. She warns that if the plan succeeds, it will allow leaders to govern without accountability for policies that benefit the wealthy at the expense of working-class families.

California abortion rights groups are supporting Democratic efforts to redraw congressional maps in response to Republican redistricting attempts in Texas. Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed legislation approving new Democratic-leaning maps, which will go before voters in a November special election. This political mobilization comes as Planned Parenthood and other reproductive rights organizations face funding cuts and restrictions following the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. The redistricting battle escalates amid Republican-passed legislation that includes nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts over ten years, which has sparked significant voter concerns about healthcare access.

Yvonne Ann Carey, born in 1938 in Georgia, was a Spelman College chemistry graduate who relocated to San Diego in 1963 with her husband Howard Carey. She worked for the County of San Diego as a caseworker and was a devoted member of Bethel Baptist Church for over 60 years, serving as a Deaconess and participating in church ministries. Known for her creative talents in crafting and baking, as well as her generosity toward college students and various charities, Yvonne passed away on August 7, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of devotion to God and a gentle spirit. Her viewing and homegoing celebration will be held in late August at Bethel Baptist Church, followed by committal at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Erik Menendez's first parole hearing after resentencing ended in denial, with the California parole board ruling he continues to pose "an unreasonable risk to public safety" despite his claims of redemption. The board cited prison violations and past criminal activity in their decision following a 10-hour hearing where Erik expressed remorse for the 1989 shotgun murders of his parents in Beverly Hills. While Erik must wait three years for another parole hearing, his brother Lyle faces his own hearing, and both brothers are pursuing multiple avenues for freedom including clemency from Governor Gavin Newsom and a request for a new trial based on additional evidence. The brothers, who claimed self-defense due to parental abuse during their original trials, received resentencing in May under California's evolving approach to juvenile offenders, making them eligible for parole after previously serving life sentences without parole.

In Valencia Park, San Diego, a storm drain filled with trees and debris serves as a stark reminder of the January 22, 2024 flooding that devastated District 4 neighborhoods. Martha Abraham argues this disaster resulted not just from extreme weather but from deliberate neglect of aging infrastructure in an area officially labeled a "Community of Concern" by city officials. She identifies this neglect as environmental racism stemming from redlining and disinvestment, with maintenance requests going unanswered while residents faced catastrophic flooding that destroyed homes and disrupted public transportation. Abraham, a nurse and community member, announces her candidacy for San Diego City Council District 4, promising to address this systemic neglect and fight for policies that protect vulnerable communities.

President Trump has escalated his campaign against cultural institutions by directing his attorneys to review museums, particularly criticizing the Smithsonian for allegedly focusing too much on negative aspects of American history like slavery. This follows a recently announced White House review of the Smithsonian Institution, where Trump administration officials are seeking to ensure exhibits align with celebrating "American exceptionalism" and remove what they consider divisive narratives. The Smithsonian's exhibits typically undergo years of planning and rigorous evaluation by scholars and curatorial experts before being displayed. Earlier this year, Trump signed an executive order putting Vice President JD Vance in charge of stopping government spending on exhibits that don't align with the administration's agenda.

Texas Republicans are advancing a controversial mid-decade redistricting plan that would eliminate five Democratic-held congressional seats, following a two-week boycott by Texas Democrats that temporarily delayed but failed to stop the effort. The plan includes changes that would make it harder for several Congressional Black Caucus members to be reelected, including Representatives Jasmine Crockett, Marc Veasey, and Al Green. Texas House Republicans have escalated tensions by mandating police escorts for Democrats leaving the Capitol over a two-day period, which some view as reminiscent of disrespectful treatment of Black lawmakers in Tennessee in 2023. The unprecedented mid-decade redistricting effort, which normally occurs only every ten years with the census, will face legal challenges but could significantly impact the balance of power in the closely divided U.S. House. # Who is affected - Texas Democratic representatives, particularly Congressional Black Caucus members Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Rep. Marc Veasey, and Rep. Al Green - Democratic voters in Texas whose districts are being redrawn - The overall Democratic Party in the U.S. House, where Republicans currently hold a slim majority (219-212) - Texas residents whose congressional representation would change # What action is being taken - Texas Republicans are proceeding with a mid-decade congressional redistricting plan - Texas House Republicans are requiring police escorts for Democrats who want to leave the Capitol over a two-day period - Democrats have returned to Texas after a two-week boycott that temporarily delayed the redistricting plan - Republicans are moving forward with changes to congressional maps that would flip or eliminate at least four Democratic-held seats # Why it matters - The redistricting could eliminate five Democratic seats, significantly affecting the balance of power in the closely divided U.S. House - It represents an unusual mid-decade redistricting effort, as such changes typically only occur every ten years with the census - The changes specifically target seats held by Black Democratic representatives, raising questions about racial motivations - The outcome could influence control of the House after the 2026 elections, which would impact President Trump's ability to advance his agenda # What's next - The redistricting changes will be challenged in court - The cases may eventually reach the U.S. Supreme Court, which will need to determine if they are consistent with previous precedents on racially redrawn districts

Dr. James Dobson, an influential evangelical leader who advised four Republican presidents and founded Focus on the Family ministry, has died at age 89. His organization became one of the world's largest ministries with a presence in nearly 100 countries, and his radio program was broadcast on 4,000 North American stations. While never holding public office, Dobson wielded significant influence in conservative politics through his work with the Family Research Council and various lobbying organizations. Throughout his career, Dobson faced controversy for his hardline positions on LGBTQ+ issues, abortion, and parenting, including being designated as leading a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center in 2010.

Despite actively shaping policies that directly impact young people's lives, society consistently excludes youth from meaningful participation in decision-making processes. Young people experience firsthand the consequences of policies regarding education, safety, climate change, and economic challenges, yet are rarely given genuine opportunities to contribute to solutions. The article argues that youth engagement should be mandatory rather than optional, highlighting numerous examples of young people making significant impacts when given proper access and authority. Research shows that communities with strong youth civic engagement experience tangible benefits, suggesting institutions should restructure to incorporate youth voices as foundational elements rather than token additions.

Olympic champion sprinter Sha'Carri Richardson was arrested last month at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for allegedly assaulting her romantic partner, fellow U.S. sprinter Christian Coleman. Bodycam footage shows Richardson shoving Coleman and throwing headphones at him, though Coleman has declined to press charges against her. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about Black men as victims of intimate partner violence, highlighting that while 45% of Black women report experiencing such violence, a significant 40% of Black men also report domestic violence. Experts explain that structural racism, stigma around masculinity, and mistrust of the legal system often prevent Black men from reporting abuse or pressing charges in these situations.

Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offer free or low-cost health insurance coverage that families should consider as part of back-to-school preparations. These programs provide comprehensive healthcare services for children up to age 19, including well-child visits, emergency care, dental, vision, and behavioral health services. Coverage through Medicaid and CHIP helps reduce school absences, minimizes health-related distractions, and improves classroom participation and high school completion rates. Currently serving over 37 million children nationwide, these programs are available year-round with eligibility varying by state, potentially covering families with incomes up to $80,000 annually for a family of four.

Eric Benard Jackson, a Master Welder known for his artistic talent and mechanical skills, passed away on April 4, 2025, after battling Leukemia. Born in San Diego in 1958, his career took him to Alaska and Seattle, where he combined craftsmanship with artistic sensibility in his welding work. Jackson's life was characterized by his strong Christian faith, guided by Philippians 4:13, and his connections to family members across several states and Mexico. His legacy includes his generosity of spirit, artistic contributions, and the impact he had on colleagues and loved ones who admired his dedication, warmth, and unwavering optimism.

Lela Virginia (Varner) Davis, a 95-year-old resident of Chula Vista, California, passed away on August 5, 2025, after a life that began in Louisiana and included a career as a sheet metal worker and aircraft mechanic. After moving to San Diego at a young age, she worked at Roar Aircraft and later at Teledyne Ryan until retirement. Her obituary notes that she was preceded in death by her husband Gean R. Davis and daughter Ava Johnson, while she is survived by her sister, nephew who served as her caretaker, and other extended family. Memorial services will be held on August 29, 2025, including a public viewing, homegoing celebration, and mausoleum entombment in San Diego.

Texas legislators have approved new congressional maps that create five Republican-leaning seats, following a contentious two-week period where Democrats fled the state to stall the vote. The redistricting effort passed the Texas House of Representatives in an 88-52 vote and will now move to the state Senate for approval before reaching Governor Abbott's desk. This Texas redistricting has triggered similar electoral map battles across the country, with states like California proposing Democratic-favorable maps that would only take effect if Republican states like Texas proceed with their changes. The redistricting has sparked controversy over allegations of gerrymandering and racial discrimination, with Democrats threatening legal action on grounds that the new maps dilute minority voting power.

Jinchao Wei, a 25-year-old US Navy sailor, has been convicted of espionage for selling classified information about US Navy ships to a Chinese intelligence officer over an 18-month period for more than $12,000. Wei was recruited through social media in February 2022 while serving on the USS Essex and undergoing the process of becoming a naturalized US citizen. Prosecutors presented evidence including encrypted communications and text messages with his handler (whom he called "Big Brother Andy") and his mother, showing Wei understood he was committing espionage. Facing six charges including espionage and conspiracy, Wei could receive a life sentence at his scheduled December 1 sentencing.

President Donald Trump's 50% tariff on steel and aluminum products has expanded to include 407 categories of derivative goods, effective Monday at 12:01 a.m. ET. Items like butter knives, baby strollers, spray deodorants, and fire extinguishers that were previously excluded are now subject to these higher tariffs. US importers face difficult decisions regarding goods already in transit, as accepting them means paying substantial new tariffs, while rejecting them likely results in financial losses. According to Under Secretary Jeffrey Kessler, this expansion aims to prevent circumvention and support American steel and aluminum industries, though analysts warn these tariffs will likely increase production costs across multiple manufacturing sectors.

The White House has ordered a comprehensive review of the Smithsonian Institution's content ahead of America's 250th birthday, aiming to align exhibitions with President Trump's interpretation of American history. The examination, detailed in a letter to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III, will assess all public-facing content including exhibitions, social media, and educational materials for their "tone, historical framing, and alignment with American ideals." This initiative follows Trump's March executive order titled "Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History," which accused the Smithsonian of promoting "divisive, race-centered ideology." The review will initially target eight major museums, with requirements to submit materials within 30 days and implement "corrective action" within 120 days.

County public health officials have confirmed the first measles case of the year involving an unimmunized teenager who recently traveled internationally. The infected teen may have exposed others at specific locations and times that were identified by officials. County epidemiologists are now collaborating with Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines Urgent Care and Rady Children's Hospital to identify and follow up with potentially exposed individuals. Health authorities are advising people with measles symptoms to call their doctor before visiting in person to prevent further exposure, while providing information about symptom development and where to find additional resources.

San Diego County Probation has established an Integrated Healthcare Services Unit aimed at enhancing medical and behavioral health services for detained youth and probation clients. The initiative is led by Dr. Lou Gilleran and Michael Kelley, who bring significant healthcare expertise to implement comprehensive health assessments for youth upon booking. This effort coordinates with Justice-Involved CalAIM, a new state program allowing Medi-Cal reimbursement for youth medical care 90 days before release, addressing a critical service gap. The program integrates health assessments into re-entry plans and implements an electronic health record system while maintaining vocational training like music production to support successful community reintegration.

Covered California officials announced a 10.3% average increase in health insurance premiums for 2024, the first double-digit hike since 2018. This increase stems from multiple factors, including annual healthcare cost growth (about 8%), the impending expiration of enhanced federal subsidies implemented during COVID-19, and market uncertainty. If Congress doesn't renew these subsidies by September, California will lose approximately $2.1 billion in tax credits that currently benefit over 90% of Affordable Care Act enrollees. While California has allocated $190 million to maintain subsidies for the lowest-income members, officials estimate that 600,000 people could drop coverage due to affordability concerns, potentially driving future costs even higher.