Biological male recognized among recipients of International Women’s Day award ceremony
The Biden Administration held a special event in honor of International Women’s Day. The event was used to honor recipients of the International Women of Courage Award. Among the recipients receiving this year’s award was a biological man. Dr. Jill Biden honored an Argentinian citizen who goes by the name Alba Rueda. Rueda is a biological male who claims to be transgender. The activist was honored for work in Rueda’s native country of Argentina. The press release for the event called the honorees, “11 extraordinary women from around the world who are working to build a brighter future for all.” Those on social media criticized the event calling it part of a plan to push a liberal agenda. Rueda is currently Argentina’s Special Envoy for Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship. The Biden Administration has not commented on the controversy.
School board rejects Christian University teachers due to faith stance
A school board has ended its relationship with a Christian University’s education program. The Washington Elementary School District board, located in Phoenix and Glendale, Arizona voted to end its relationship with Arizona Christian University. The partnership between the two was used to recruit new graduates to teach in that district. The board elected to end the relationship because of ACU’s Christian beliefs. A board member, Tamillia Valenzuela, even claimed that the graduates high moral standards due to their faith, belief in traditional marriage, and sexual morality would be a threat to LGBTQ students. Another board member, Kyle Clayton, claimed teachers “teaching through a Biblical lens” is embedded in ACU students and he felt those beliefs didn’t belong in the district. The president of Arizona Christian University released a statement saying in part, "The school board's recent decision to ban ACU students from serving as student teachers was done for one reason only: our university’s commitment to our Christian convictions. That's wrong, it's unlawful, and will only hurt the district's students." Following criticism concerning the story the president of the school district released a statement claiming the ending of their partnership with ACU was not based on the university’s Christian values which contradicted the board member’s comments.
UK arrest demonstrator for silent protest
The United Kingdom has continued to block peaceful demonstrations in front of abortion clinics. Government officials recently passed a law and claim it is to protect patients and employees. This law according to officials is designed to stop intimidation of patients getting medical care and facility employees. Protestors are now restricted to certain areas called buffer zones away from the clinics and are banned from shouting, chanting, or speaking to patients and workers. Police in the UK have now taken it one step further. Two protestors were recently arrested for bowing their heads and praying silently in front of abortion clinics. According to video released the officer arrested one protester claiming silent prayer was still a violation of the law. Critics dubbed the arrest a “thoughtcrime” and say freedom of religion in the UK is now under assault. Conservatives in the nation are pushing for an amendment to the law that would protect silent prayer protests at abortion clinics. Following the controversy, charges against one protestor have been dropped.
Exercise helps brain according to new study
A new study reveals the brain receives a boost from all forms of exercise. According to the study released in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, exercise has a positive effect on memory and brain health. The study followed over four thousand people in the United Kingdom through activity monitors. The data collected in the study found moderate or vigorous exercise and activities resulted in a positive effect on the brain. Researchers found just 10 minutes of exercise a day improves brain health and cognitive skills. Study subjects were compared to subjects with little to no exercise regimen. Exercises that benefit the body and cognitive health can vary as long as it achieves the overall goal. Researchers mentioned walking, HITT workout routines, walking a pet outdoors, swimming, running, using stairs, and biking were some examples mentioned to achieve a positive effect on the brain and memory through exercise.