News: Daily Skimm: When the leaves come falling down

Wednesday, October 20, 2021

Daily Skimm: When the leaves come falling down

October 20, 2021

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Quote of the Day

"Her Majesty believes you are as old as you feel" – Queen Elizabeth II's secretary on why she declined the "Oldie of the Year" award. You tell them, Lilibet (if we can call you that).

Australia

The Story

Australia is stepping in to help survivors of abuse.

What's happening?

Australia's long been battling problems of gender equality, sexism, and sexual abuse (including a rape accusation in Parliament and claims of sexual misconduct against members and staff). Now, it's facing its bleak record on domestic violence. Each week, one woman there is murdered by her current or former partner. And 1 in 3 women (15yo+) have experienced physical or sexual violence. The pandemic has made things worse – forcing many survivors to be kept in close quarters with their abusers. The rise in home costs and rent have only added to the stressors of leaving an abusive environment. Now, lawmakers are looking to make some changes.

Tell me more.

Yesterday, the gov started providing access to one-time payments (of up to roughly $3,700) to help people leave violent relationships. They can be used for things like establishing a safe home, food, or school fees. The two-year trial program is part of a recent $820 million women's safety package, which also includes an expansion of support services and building a reporting system. It's an important step, given that nearly 50% of assaults recorded in the country are related to family and domestic violence. Even more so for Indigenous women, who are 11 times more likely to die from these assaults.

What are people saying?

Many are applauding the move. Some parts of Australia (like New South Wales) are taking things even further – allocating $360 million to help address domestic and family violence. But Indigenous leaders are calling for a separate plan – saying the national one leaves Aboriginal women behind (a sentiment that is shared by Indigenous women and girls in the United States). Other critics reportedly say there needs to be a larger conversation about the root causes of domestic violence – not just a bandage.

theSkimm

The Australian gov is looking for a pathway of escape for women suffering at the hands of their abuser. But many are saying women shouldn't be running in the first place. And that it's the culture of violence that needs to change, not a woman's home.

PS: If you or someone you know needs help, call the US National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

And Also...This

What's charting a new lesson plan…

The Biden admin. Yesterday, President Biden signed an executive order that aims to close racial inequity in education. Systemic racism has only made things worse. And the pandemic has only exacerbated these disparities. Now, the Biden admin is pulling out a new syllabus. And created a new group project to get it done. Think: getting top senior gov officials to do things like boost enrollment in early childhood education. And increasing exposure to internships, mentorship, and STEM fields. It's unclear when the changes will be implemented.

A look at systemic racism: Black and Hispanic students are disciplined and suspended from school at higher rates than white students. And the White House says their college graduation rates sit below the national average – affecting access to opportunities.

...Oh and speaking of taking racism seriously, there's also New York City. Its board of health just declared racism a public health crisis, calling on the city to investigate things like structural racism and bias in its own health department.

Who people are talking about…

Steve Bannon. Yesterday, the House select committee investigating the Jan 6 Capitol riot recommended holding the former Trump adviser in contempt of Congress. For months, lawmakers have been investigating the attack that left America's democracy wounded. And have been trying to investigate what led up to the attack. The committee issued subpoenas to Trump advisers – including Bannon – calling on them to testify. But Bannon was a no-show, citing former President Trump's claim of executive privilege. Aka what legally allows a president to block info from being released to other parts of the government (like Congress). Now, the House is expected to take up the committee's rec tomorrow. And to forward it to the Justice Dept, which will decide on charges.

Who's got a status update...

Facebook. Yesterday, the social media giant agreed to pay up just about a whole hour's revenue in a settlement with the Justice Dept. And by a whole hour's revenue we mean more than $14 million. Why? Because Zuck and his HR team allegedly chose to hire foreign workers for jobs at FB HQ, instead of advertising the roles to Americans. FB's not admitting fault, but is still paying so it can update its 'number of lawsuits' status.

Who's stating the obvious…

Scientists. A new study says up to 99.9% of recent scientific literature indicate humans are behind the Earth's climate emergency. And that, 'Earth to the 0.1% – the world can't live in denial anymore.'

PS: We Skimm'd some tips for reducing your personal carbon footprint.

Who's breaking barriers…

Dr. Rachel Levine. Yesterday, she became the country's first openly transgender four-star admiral. That's Admiral Levine to you now.

Who's also out roaming the Street...

A 7-foot Harambe.

Hold your headphones. 'Cause the latest ep of our new "Pop Cultured with theSkimm" podcast, sponsored by Gevalia, dropped yesterday. And this one will land you among the stars. Both kinds. It explores society's obsession with space.

From blockbuster movies to fan-fave shows, the cosmos just keep coming up. Hear from experts on what that's all about. And how Hollywood's new efforts to film in space aren't as otherworldly as you might think. Houston, we have some must-listen material. Don't miss it.

Festive Flights

Round trip tix to Rome for $268. Cancun for $127. Aspen for $198. If you've got travel on your mind with the holidays coming up, we've got a pro tip: Skimm'rs can join Dollar Flight Club for just $1 for the next 12 hours. And experts rec booking flights at least five weeks out.

Psst...Members get alerts for trips that are 60%–90% cheaper than usual. And save an avg of $500 per booking. Plus, premium membership comes with major discounts from brands like Babbel and Lonely Planet. So whether you're headed home or taking advantage of PTO to explore somewhere new, check 'em out. $1 today can save you a lot later. Trust.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the avg American spends 37 minutes on food prep and cleanup every. single. day. That seem short? Probably because it's actually 51 minutes for the avg American woman. Yep.

And even though healthy, home-cooked meals are great, spending that much time in the kitchen is...not. At least, not every day. Enter: Thrive Market's new cookbook. All the delicious recipes are ready in 30 minutes or less. Plus, they're full of shoppable QR codes. So you can order ingredients as you plan. Aka never forget one. The very best part? Skimm'rs can get it free. Along with $20 off their first order. Don't wait.

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

1. Denim that does way more than just look good. It's also great for the planet. This anti-fast fashion brand is all about clean manufacturing and sustainable practices. Like using BCI-certified cotton. And all-natural ingredients to dye their styles. Look good, feel good.*

2. Something that'll have you cheesin' harder this fall. This brand's impression kit can help align your teeth in less than five months. It's FDA-cleared, cheaper than braces, aaaaand ships right to your door. Plus, Skimm'rs get an exclusive pre-Black Friday discount and free whitening.*

3. A best-selling bag to go with your best fall outfits. Cue foliage and fashion. Hammitt's VIP bag can be worn as a crossbody or a clutch. And comes with a lifetime promise. Psst...the rest of their collection is just as iconic. Shop now.*

4. Something to winter-proof your outdoor hangs. Bring on the cozy. This outdoor patio heater can help keep you nice and toasty during those colder months. It's got anti-tilt safety features and an easy-to-use push and turn ignition to take out the guesswork. Add to cart.*

5. Brass cable clips that'll organize your charging cables and look chic. Say goodbye to cheap-looking plastic ones and hello to brass clips that marry function with sophistication. You can use them for your WFH setup and for lamps with long wires. We love a tidy home.

*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.

Honoring family...Candace R (AZ). She was able to add her late grandfather's name to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial – more than 60 years after his death.

Shining a spotlight...Samantha B (NY). She organized a demonstration to raise awareness of stillbirth and kick off October Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

(Some) Birthdays...Charlotte Grinberg (MA), Lauren Sloan (GA), Luann Abrams (OR), Amy Langmaid (MT), Kendra Haro (MA), Savetka Mirakovska (NJ), Jess Miller (AZ), Johnna Cheetham (WV), Marisa Boras (TN), Michelle Aiyanyor (NY), Sarah Gittemeier (KS), Michelle Fitch (TX), Hannah Bagshaw (NY), Elizabeth Partain (AL), Kevin J McCarthy (CO), Joan Emerson (WI)

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

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We've got some tips on what to consider (think: family history, breast tissue density, and more) and why you should start proactive prevention now.

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

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