News: Daily Skimm: I read the last page first

Friday, October 22, 2021

Daily Skimm: I read the last page first

October 22, 2021

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Skimm'd while talking to "Me Too" founder Tarana Burke about putting your health first

Quote of the Day

"Passengers just sleep on the bus" – An official on a five-hour bus tour meant to let people get a snooze in. It'll tire you out.

The US-Mexico Border

The Story

US border agents have some explaining to do.

Tell me.

Federal agents at the US-Mexico border have long been accused of mistreating asylum seekers and migrants. Several reports have even called them out for misconduct. Including misspending federal aid intended for migrants, invasive body searches of women, and ignoring COVID-19 distancing and other protocols. Most recently, images of Border Patrol agents prompted accusations that they whipped Haitian migrants with horse reins. Now, a new report from Human Rights Watch details dozens of instances of alleged abuse and misconduct at the hands of federal officers.

Go on.

The 26-page report documents more than 160 incidents where migrants experienced physical, emotional, and sexual abuse dating as far back as 2016. One woman claimed a Border Patrol officer repeatedly slammed her to the ground. One man said he was denied medical treatment for a month after a Border Patrol dog bit him. Others said they were forced to sign docs they didn't understand, or officers tore up their official documents. Most felt the agents treated them like they were "worthless." And the report said these claims show DHS has "normalized shocking abuses" at the US border.

What are people saying?

Immigrant advocates are appalled at the conditions at the border and called on DHS and the Justice Dept to investigate the allegations. Especially since the Biden admin had promised to deliver a new approach to immigration. But instead continued to use some Trump-era immigration tactics and COVID-19 as an excuse for deportations. All amid a record influx of migrants at the border. But still no word from VP Harris, who's taken a lead role on immigration there.

theSkimm

Poverty, violence, and natural disasters are just a few of the things that push migrants to make the harrowing journey to the US-Mexico border. But it seems some have had to endure abuse by the very people they hoped would help them begin a new life.

And Also...This

What's raising alarms…

A document leak. Yesterday, reports found that some of the world's biggest coal, oil, and beef producers are trying to make major edits to a UN climate change report. Concerning, since the report tells countries what's needed to combat climate change. And comes days before COP26 – a climate summit where world leaders figure out how to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The culprits? Countries like Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Australia apparently want the UN to stop being so harsh on fossil fuels. And Brazil and Argentina aren't big fans of going vegetarian. Others like Switzerland reportedly don't want to foot the bill to help developing countries reach their emission goals. The UN's saying 'nice try, but no.'

Code red: The news comes amid reports that the impacts of climate change may be worse than we thought. More natural disasters (like droughts, extreme heat) are already exacerbating food production issues. And can lead to more heat-related deaths, infectious diseases, and hunger.

PS: Here's the Skimm on how climate change might affect your health.

Whose case has updates...

Gabby Petito's. Yesterday, the FBI confirmed that remains found in a Florida wilderness park are those of Petito's fiancé, Brian Laundrie. The two were on a cross-country road trip when Petito disappeared. Her body was found days later, and a coroner ruled her death a homicide by strangulation. Laundrie – who'd refused to cooperate with investigators – was a person of interest in her death. And he too went missing. Now, authorities are still working to piece together what happened.

National attention: In the weeks authorities searched for Laundrie and Petito, at least four other missing persons' remains have reportedly been found. But their cases and those of hundreds of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls haven't made as big of headlines. Here's how the media plays a role, and what can be done to help fix it.

What's tangled in controversy...

Texas. Yesterday, the ACLU sued a TX school district for allegedly discriminating against boys with long hair. The school says their hair should be "no longer" than the bottom of their shirt collar. And has suspended or withheld recess from those who've broken the rules. Now, seven students – including one student who identifies as nonbinary – argue that the gender-based policy violates equal protection under the 14th Amendment and Title IX. But the district insists they're just setting "grooming standards."

Where things aren't a game…

South Korea. This week, thousands of people took to the streets – proving the economic hardship in "Squid Game" isn't just TV, but reality. Amid the pandemic, everyday workers have struggled to survive. Meanwhile, rich and powerful South Koreans apparently got away with embezzlement and corruption. Now, thousands of South Koreans – wearing costumes in a nod to the Netflix show – are saying 'enough.' And reportedly calling for job security, greater worker protections, and the right to form unions. No word on whether the gov's gonna be a player.

Who people are talking about...

Alec Baldwin. Yesterday, the actor fired a prop gun in an accident that killed a 42-year-old director of photography and injured the director. Baldwin was on the New Mexico set of his latest movie "Rust" when he fired the shot. For now, the film production's been put on hold as authorities investigate what happened.

When you hear memes can help you cope with stress...

Noodle can too.

On theSkimm Screen

Some shows are so good that it's worth going back and binge-watching earlier seasons when a new one comes out. Case in point...

"Hightown"

It's...a crime drama centered around (real and aspiring) police officers as they crack murder cases and try to catch drug dealers.

And...this season, the picture-perfect ideal of summers on Cape Cod clashes with off-season reality. Aka things get real dark.

Plus...it doesn't shy away from the nitty gritty of addiction and sobriety.

Btw, the S2 premiere just dropped. And the next episode comes out at 9 pm October 24. Hit 'play' to catch up.

No Sweat

Three minutes and 43:13 seconds. That's the fastest mile time on record. Don't worry. We're nowhere close, either. But if you're looking to move it move it (at your own pace), Parade's new Sport+ thongs can help. They're quick-drying, seamless, sweat-wicking, and made from certified recycled fabrics. Oh, and actually stay in place...whether you're out setting records or dancing in the living room. Here are the new colors we're eyeing:

Zest. Because it's basically impossible to feel sad in bright yellow underwear.
Heat. Looking to make a locker room statement? This shade of red's got you.
Shroom. For when you wanna keep it natural and neutral.

PS: Each pair is $10. But they sell five for $40. Aaand Skimm'rs get 20% off $25+ purchases. Double score.

Skimm Reads

"We Are Not Like Them" Christine Pride and Jo Piazza

In crisis. That's how this story begins. You'll meet two best friends from childhood, who are recently reunited in their hometown of Philadelphia. There's Jen, who's white, and newly pregnant after years of trying to have a baby. And Riley, who is Black, and back in town for her job as a big-time TV news anchor. In the middle of one of their dinners, Jen finds out her husband is responsible for shooting an unarmed Black teen. It's told through alternative POVs. And we think this narrative about race, friendship, and justice is a must-read.

Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. How to unleash your inner investor. With some help from Fidelity. They've got tools and resources that can help you make your money work harder. Check out their special "Women Talk Money" event to get must-have investing tips. Future You loves this idea.*

2. A super speedy blender for those super speedy mornings. We've been there. This cordless personal blender makes it easy to mix your fave smoothies on the go. Plus it comes with cups, lids, and blade covers. Grab a set of two on sale now.*

3. The ultimate treat-yo-self experience. Try these two brand new, very special hair services at The Salon at Ulta Beauty. Give damaged hair extra love with an OLAPLEX treatment. Or enjoy a quick color boost or touch up with Redken Express Colors Gels. Hair for it.*

4. Extremely cute, extremely hydrating hand sanitizer. These misters are sustainable, refillable, and have soothing aloe vera so your hands won't get dry. Plus they come in five ahhh-mazing scents (hiii cucumber basil). Here's 20% off their scent sampler with code SKIMMPICKS.*

5. Must-have accessories under $40 that make the chilly temps bearable. We rounded up the best in scarves, beanies, and gloves (texting and non) that'll actually keep you warm this fall.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

Skimm'rs

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

Soul good...Melissa F (MI). She started a new e-commerce business that's focused on mental health awareness and female empowerment. The goal: break the stigma and provide resources to those who need help. Add to cart.

Giving lemon-aid...Alexis T (UT). She writes a food blog, sharing recipes and encouraging people to "Make it with Zest." Aka use everyday ingredients in a new or unexpected way. Learn more.

(Some) Birthdays...Kirenjot Singh (NJ), Aitana Zermeño (CA), Brandon Elias (NY), Quentin King (PA), Dani Mazza (NY), Misha Sharp (NY), Shelley Papa (NY), Alan Patricof (NY), Casey Carroll (NY), Ellen Stein (NY), Judy Berkowitz (FL), Kaitlyn Osborn (AR), Rebecca Hankins (MS), Julie Chao (CA), Falak Muhammedi (GA), Tina Novack (NJ)

*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

You've heard of Spooktober but how about Striketober? Thousands of unionized workers have been going on strike, citing inhumane treatment, low pay, and other issues in the workplace. On this week's "Skimm This" ep, we talked to a labor reporter and a historian about why this could be a turning point.

And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time…

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