Just to preface this: All Americans owe a debt of gratitude for anyone, man or woman, who has fought on the front lines of combat to protect the sovereignty of this great nation. Truly and from the bottom of our hearts: Thank you. But that still doesn't mean women should...

As his Cabinet nominations have shown, President-elect Donald Trump plans a revolutionary assault on the sinister and unconstitutional deep state. Thus, when Trump supporters react to one particular nomination with tepid enthusiasm or even outright disappointment -- as many did when a report surfaced earlier this week that Trump would...

For anyone who has paid attention to recent American politics, this meltdown will come as no surprise -- but that doesn't make it any less eye roll-inducing. Textbook neocon and noted warhawk John Bolton, believe it or not, has some issues with President-elect Donald Trump's rapid-fire administration nominees. He has...

The Federal Election Commission is dropping the hammer on President Joe Biden's Department of Justice. On Wednesday, the Washington Free Beacon posted a letter from FEC Chairman Sean Cooksey to DOJ Inspector General Michael Horowitz and counsel Jeffrey Ragsdale, alleging the DOJ violated its own internal policies when it sent...

From Instagram stardom to liberty martyrdom, P'nut the squirrel is on track to become the most consequential rodent in America. The beloved bushy-tailed beast burrowed into the hearts of freedom-loving Americans after Department of Environmental Conservation officials seized and later euthanized the squirrel on Oct. 30. He and a raccoon...

For generations, women have felt the pressure to look perfect. Even though there is no such thing as a perfect body, many people feel like they have to be thin and petite to be beautiful. But that isn’t the case. Every person is unique and beautiful, no matter their size. Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher joined the cast of Dancing With The Stars to compete and send a message. She wants young girls like her to know they are beautiful and capable of anything. Having Ilona Maher on DWTS this season has helped break down stereotypes and encourage all women to be themselves. Ilona Maher Proved That “DWTS” Viewers Want Diversity She told Good Morning America, “People are loving to see a girl like me move. They’re seeing themselves out there.” She added that fans love seeing her and Alan Bersten “working with a person like me and how he supports me and makes me feel so beautiful on the floor.” The pair have danced to the show’s 500th episode, airing November 12. Ilona Maher thinks DWTS has helped her showcase her talents. “For me, it’s just showing how powerful and how important it is to be strong physically and mentally,” Maher, fresh off winning a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics,” she told Good Morning America. Ilona added that young girls appreciate seeing someone like them represented on television. “I think young girls like seeing me dancing the rumba, this muscular build out there, trying to be as graceful as she can,” Ilona added. “At times, it feels like it’s not just for me that I’m doing this, it’s for others.” Alan said he loves having Ilona Maher as his DWTS partner, which is what the show is all about, and she’s learned to dance with him. “She is exactly who she is on social media, in person,” he added. “She’s the first female partner to lift her male partner on the show, and it’s just awesome.” You can find the source of this story’s featured image here. The post Ilona Maher Reveals Why She Joined “DWTS” And How Alan Bersten Makes Her Feel “Beautiful” appeared first on InspireMore.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Every day on the Optimist Daily, we report on solutions from around the world. Though we love solutions big and small, the ones that emerge from our local communities often have the greatest impact. Welcome to the fifth round of The Optimist Daily’s Local Changemakers series! This is our way of expressing gratitude to our Optimist Daily community. We hope you enjoy learning about these solutions-oriented individuals and organizations as much as we did.   Third Act: how Americans over 60 are leading the charge for climate change and justice In a time when climate change and social justice concerns are front and center, a new and unique movement led by older Americans has emerged. Third Act, founded by renowned environmentalist Bill McKibben, aims to harness the energy, experience, and resources of people over 60 to create meaningful change on issues of climate and racial justice. The name “Third Act” reflects the idea of the “third act” of life—a stage filled with wisdom and a sense of purpose, often directed toward creating positive change. This organization is mobilizing older Americans to tackle critical global challenges by organizing and amplifying their voices. A growing movement with a big vision Third Act operates with a clear and ambitious focus. The organization is structured around two primary campaigns: climate action and democracy protection. The climate campaign aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels by targeting banks and institutions that fund fossil fuel industries. The democracy campaign works to protect voting rights, especially amid increasing concerns about voter suppression. The goal is to empower older Americans to use their collective political, financial, and social influence to create substantial and lasting change. With an estimated 70 percent of America’s financial assets owned by people over 60, the financial and political power they hold is undeniable—and Third Act aims to harness it for the greater good. Turning the financial tide on fossil fuels One of Third Act’s key campaigns is to push financial institutions to divest from fossil fuels. The campaign, aptly named Banking on Our Future, encourages participants to move their money out of banks that support fossil fuel industries. The organization highlights how older Americans, who have been part of the system for decades, are particularly well-positioned to influence large financial institutions. In March 2023, Third Act organized a nationwide protest against major banks that fund fossil fuel projects, bringing thousands of supporters to demonstrate outside bank branches across the country. These protests are complemented by ongoing efforts to encourage personal divestment, which helps put pressure on institutions to transition their portfolios to greener investments. As McKibben noted, “Our generation has financial power, and we can use it to influence a future we want to see. If enough of us act together, banks and corporations will have no choice but to take notice.” Defending democracy and protecting voting rights Third Act is also taking on voting rights in a big way. Recognizing the importance of fair elections, especially for younger generations, the organization actively works to combat voter suppression and safeguard democratic processes. Through its Protect the Vote initiative, Third Act advocates for voting access and education, encouraging older Americans to protect a system they’ve relied upon their whole lives and want to preserve for their children and grandchildren. A new model of intergenerational activism One of the most inspiring aspects of Third Act is its emphasis on intergenerational collaboration. Recognizing the strength that comes from unity, Third Act encourages its members to work alongside younger activists and leaders. In this way, the organization fosters mentorship and solidarity, combining the drive of youth movements with the wisdom and resources of older generations. Through letter-writing campaigns, peaceful sit-ins, and community-building events, Third Act enables older Americans to connect with younger activists. This collaboration helps bridge generational divides, creating a unified front that advocates for a more sustainable and equitable future for all. Building an engaged and powerful community Third Act’s success so far lies in its grassroots approach. The organization has grown rapidly, thanks to the enthusiastic support of older Americans across the country. To manage and direct this energy, Third Act is guided by a volunteer Advisory Council, led by social justice leader Akaya Windwood. This council ensures that the organization remains true to its values and mission, empowering local chapters to take action in ways that resonate with their communities. Third Act also harnesses the power of modern technology to organize and mobilize supporters. Through online resources, webinars, and virtual organizing events, the organization makes it easy for anyone, anywhere, to get involved. Whether it’s contacting local banks or signing petitions, members are equipped with the tools they need to make a difference from home or in their own communities. The growing momentum behind Third Act is a testament to the power of purposeful activism at any age. Third Act’s actions demonstrate that older Americans are anything but passive observers—they are leaders, mentors, and activists determined to leave a positive legacy.   HeartMath: the science of inner balance and well-being for a thriving world In today’s fast-paced world, managing stress and finding balance can be overwhelming. HeartMath, an innovative organization founded in 1991 by Doc Childre, has risen to meet this need by exploring the powerful connection between the heart and mind. Through scientifically backed tools and techniques, HeartMath helps individuals achieve emotional balance, resilience, and a greater sense of inner peace. What sets HeartMath apart is its dual focus on personal and organizational well-being. Drawing from over three decades of research, HeartMath offers practical solutions that have been embraced in fields ranging from healthcare and education to corporate settings and emergency response. By making these resources accessible to people of all backgrounds, HeartMath is paving the way toward a more balanced, connected, and resilient world. The science behind HeartMath: heart-brain coherence At the core of HeartMath’s approach is the concept of heart-brain coherence—the state of optimal alignment between the heart and mind. Research shows that when the heart and brain are in sync, individuals experience a range of benefits: reduced stress, enhanced mental clarity, improved emotional regulation, and even strengthened immune responses. HeartMath’s proprietary biofeedback technology, such as the Inner Balance Coherence Plus sensor and app, provides real-time feedback on heart rate variability (HRV), allowing users to monitor their emotional and physiological state. Through guided breathing techniques and focus exercises, individuals can learn to shift their heart rhythms, promoting a calm and balanced state that benefits the body and mind. This technology, based on HeartMath’s decades of research, is empowering users worldwide to take charge of their mental and emotional well-being. As Childre put it, “Our heart is more than a physical organ—it’s an intelligent system that we can tap into to create more balanced lives.” HeartMath Institute: research and compassion at the core The HeartMath Institute, HeartMath’s nonprofit research branch, is at the forefront of exploring the science of heart coherence. The institute is dedicated to studying the effects of heart-brain communication on stress management, resilience, and overall health. Its research has led to insights into how heart rhythm patterns influence thoughts and behaviors, demonstrating that actively cultivating coherence can lead to positive psychological and physiological shifts. Through initiatives like the Global Coherence Initiative, HeartMath Institute is also examining the impact of collective heart coherence on communities and even the global environment. This research underscores HeartMath’s broader vision: a world in which individuals connect with themselves and each other to foster harmony, compassion, and mutual understanding. Practical tools for real-world impact One of HeartMath’s most practical contributions is its ability to translate science into action. From heart-focused breathing techniques to mobile apps, HeartMath’s tools are designed for real-world use. The techniques are simple yet powerful, making them accessible to anyone seeking to reduce stress, increase focus, or improve emotional well-being. In addition to their individual programs, HeartMath works with organizations to enhance workplace wellness. Hospitals, for instance, have implemented HeartMath’s tools and seen measurable benefits in nurse retention, patient satisfaction, and overall morale. These improvements highlight the profound impact of heart coherence on fostering positive, supportive environments. Corporate wellness programs also benefit from HeartMath’s training. By teaching employees how to manage their stress, communicate effectively, and increase resilience, companies can create a workplace culture where people feel supported and valued. This approach is transforming organizations, one coherent heart at a time. Bringing heart-based living to the world HeartMath’s vision for a kinder, more compassionate world is deeply interwoven with its focus on heart-based living. Through both individual and collective approaches, the organization is helping people worldwide cultivate inner peace and resilience, creating ripple effects that extend to families, workplaces, and communities. For those looking to get started, HeartMath offers a range of resources, including online courses and coaching. Through these tools, individuals can learn to achieve greater harmony between mind and heart, bringing more stability and joy to their daily lives. As HeartMath’s research demonstrates, each of us has the capacity to create change within ourselves—and that internal change can lead to a brighter world for all. As more people experience the benefits of coherence and balance, HeartMath’s mission moves closer to reality: a world where people care for one another and live in peace and harmony.The post Changemakers of the week: Third Act and HeartMath first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The United Nations Conference on Biodiversity (COP16) closed with a revolutionary agreement to formally integrate Indigenous peoples in nature protection decisions, marking a watershed moment in environmental history. The decision, announced in Cali, Colombia, creates a new body that will give Indigenous tribes a substantial voice in global conservation strategies. For many, this is a long-overdue recognition of the critical role that Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices play in protecting biodiversity and combatting climate change. Following arduous talks, delegates announced the agreement to form the Indigenous body, prompting passionate celebrations among Indigenous leaders. According to Sushil Raj, Executive Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Rights and Communities Global Program, this new organization “strengthens representation, coordination, inclusive decision making, and creates a space for dialogue with parties to the COP.” This action strengthens Indigenous representation in international debates and recognizes their long-standing contributions to biodiversity management. 26-year-old promise fulfilled The inclusion of Indigenous voices in biodiversity decisions is viewed as a critical step toward fulfilling obligations made under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which has been in effect for 26 years without officially involving Indigenous and local people. Susana Muhamad, Colombia’s environment minister and COP16 president, welcomed the decision, saying, “With this decision, the value of traditional knowledge of Indigenous peoples, Afro-descendants, and local communities is recognized, and a 26-year-old historical debt in the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is settled.” The Indigenous body will be co-chaired by two representatives: one elected by regional UN parties and the other by Indigenous and local communities. In order to ensure diversity and inclusion, the agreement requires that at least one co-chair come from a developing nation, with gender balance taken into account. Sharing the benefits of nature’s DNA Another significant achievement of COP16 was a binding rule mandating firms to share the financial gains from using natural genetic resources in their products. This provision, which resulted from difficult talks between industrialized and developing countries, mandates firms to pay a charge when using genetic information derived from animals, plants, or microorganisms for commercial purposes. As Toerris Jaeger, Executive Director of Rainforest Foundation Norway, noted, “Many of the life-saving medicines we use today come from the rainforest. It is therefore right that a portion of the income companies generate from this information goes back to protect nature.” COP16 imposed a 0.1 percent revenue fee for firms that use these genetic resources, with 50 percent of the proceeds going to Indigenous people. Ginette Hemley, Senior Vice President for Wildlife at the World Wildlife Fund, added, “This will enable these communities, including women and youth, to finally share in the profits.” Managing biodiversity’s impact on health As biodiversity loss accelerates, environmental groups have become more concerned about the health concerns presented by ecosystem degradation and loss of ecological integrity. During COP16, delegates agreed on measures that directly address the effects of biodiversity loss on human and animal health, recognizing that ecosystem preservation is critical to global public health protection. A mixed outcome for funding commitments Despite these substantial accomplishments, COP16 fell short of obtaining the financial commitments required to effectively address global biodiversity loss. During the two-week conference, a meager $163 million in fresh promises were announced, significantly less than the billions of dollars estimated by experts to be required to combat biodiversity decline. Nicola Sorsby, a researcher at the International Institute for Environment and Development, criticized the lack of urgency in funding, stating, “The pledges made…were way off where they need to be. This is only 0.5% of the target we need to reach within the next six years.” Brian O’Donnell, Director of the Campaign for Nature, shared these worries, saying, “Too many countries and U.N. officials came to Cali without the urgency and level of ambition needed to secure outcomes at COP16 to address our species’ most urgent existential issue.” Although wealthier nations promised to increase yearly conservation money for developing countries to $20 billion by 2025 and $30 billion by 2030 at the last Montreal summit, the immediate financial pledges announced during COP16 show that there is still a long way to go. Building upon the 2022 Accord The Cali meeting builds on the momentum of the historic 2022 biodiversity agreement in Montreal, in which world leaders pledged to protect 30 percent of the earth and restore 30 percent of degraded ecosystems by 2030. This lofty aim, known as “30×30,” remains a guiding target for worldwide conservation efforts, and the new measures adopted at COP16 are viewed as reinforcing that commitment. In addition to establishing the Indigenous body, delegates in Cali passed a resolution acknowledging the importance of individuals of African heritage in biodiversity conservation. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change and biodiversity loss, these inclusive approaches seek to foster more comprehensive, long-term conservation methods. The way forward for conservation While COP16 was a huge step forward in the struggle to safeguard biodiversity, the lack of strong financial support for these measures highlights the challenges that remain. The findings of this meeting are anticipated to impact future UN climate discussions, which will move the focus to supporting renewable energy projects to combat climate change. As the globe grapples with the pressing need to fund and implement successful environmental initiatives, COP16 serves as both a step forward in engaging underrepresented voices in conservation and a reminder of the financial obstacles that remain.The post UN Biodiversity Summit agrees to include Indigenous voices in conservation decisions first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.