Future Pandemics

UA kick-starts six projects related to COVID-19 and future pandemics: WVUA – June 2

The University of Alabama is kick-starting six projects related to COVID-19 and future pandemics. The projects are designed to deepen the understanding of this pandemic to hopefully positively influence society if another were to happen. Projects include development of a model to track transmission of infectious diseases, using a bacteria’s immune system to develop a low-cost test, and creating a training program to help rural Alabamians with skills needed for the evolving job market.
WTVY (Dothan) – June 1
Tuscaloosa News – June 3
Crestview News Bulletin – June 3

Cataclysmic Chaos

Racism, police violence, and the climate are not separate issues: The New Yorker – June 4

I find that lots of people are surprised to learn that, by overwhelming margins, the two groups of Americans who care most about climate change are Latinx Americans and African-Americans. Late last month, he invited The University of Alabama biologist Gui Becker, whom you can hear singing his own composition, “Cataclysmic Chaos,” at 1:17:45 of this YouTube video.

Insurrection Act

Alabama professor explains insurrection act: WVUA – June 4

Dr. Allen Linken, University of Alabama political science professor, shared his thoughts on President Donald Trump’s suggestion Monday, June 1, of using federal troops to end unrest that has erupted following the death of George Floyd. Dr. Linken spoke on the possibility of the insurrection act.

Renaming Buildings

Petition started to “Rename buildings with racist history” at UA: Nick 97.5 – June 4

The killing of George Floyd has since forced the issue of systemic racism, racial injustice, and police brutality to be discussed publicly. Companies like Ben & Jerry’s and Lyft have all made public statements about diversity, specifically systemic racism and white supremacy. Those same conversations are being had in Tuscaloosa and now over 9,000 people are calling for The University of Alabama to address racism on its campus.
NBC (Huntsville) – June 7