Slow boat to Timbuktu
Source: The Guardian
A travel writer explores the contradictions of Africa’s Niger River as it flows through Mali to the ancient city of Timbuktu.
Culture & Society
Anti-homeless spikes: ‘Sleeping rough opened my eyes to the city’s barbed cruelty’
Source: The Guardian
It’s easy to view homeless people as “other” without considering why they are homeless or what challenges they face. In some cities, businesses have installed “defensive architecture” designed to stop homeless people from congregating or sleeping in public spaces. Read one writer’s opinion of this practice.
Barrett Brown Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison in Connection with Stratfor Hack
Source: Wired
Some consider Barrett Brown, a journalist and activist recently sentenced to five years in prison, a political prisoner. Read the article to decide for yourself.
Working in High School Doesn’t Pay Off the Way It Used To
Source: Bloomberg Business
Is the value of work simply the paycheck at the end of the week, or does it offer more than that? Discuss with your peers.
My Day One: From the Streets of Lahore to the Heart of Texas
Source: whitehouse.gov
In honor of the second annual Immigrant Heritage Month, the White House is inviting people to share their immigrant stories on its blog. In this one, a woman gains a new outlook after learning about her parents’ history, which wasn’t often talked about in their household.
Why the Story of Cinderella Endures and Resonates
Source: Smithsonian
The story of Cinderella has been told for centuries. James Deutsch, a professor of folklore, explains why Americans are particularly drawn to the tale.
What Are The Dangers Of A Single Story?
Source: NPR
In this radio interview, author Chimamanda Adichie discusses the benefits of hearing stories from multiple points of views. Her original TED Talk on the subject is also included.
12 Immigrants Who Came To America With Nothing And Made A Fortune
Source: Business Insider
Read about 12 immigrants who achieved their American dreams.
Surprising responses to Hamlet Africa tour
Source: Times Higher Education
Researchers record the reactions of audiences in Africa to a production of Hamlet by a Shakespeare Globe theater troupe.
Saudi Arabia women defy authorities over female driving ban
Source: CNN
In Saudi Arabia, no law bars women from driving cars, but cultural tradition does. In recent years, though, some Saudi women have defied the ban and even posted videos online of themselves driving, resulting in official punishment and harassment from neighbors.