Current Issues Article Discussion: Russia bans Gay Adoption

(CNN) — Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has signed a decree banning foreign same-sex couples — as well as single people from countries where same-sex marriages are legal — from adopting Russian children.

Though there was no official ban until now, foreigners’ attempts to adopt Russian children before the decree generally would be unsuccessful if a prospective adoptive parent was thought to be gay, international adoption agencies based in Russia have said. Same-sex marriage is illegal in Russia.

The decree was signed Monday and published on a government website Thursday. It went into effect Wednesday, state-funded television network Russia Today reported, but CNN couldn’t immediately confirm that.

The portion affecting singles appears to stem from concerns Russian lawmakers have publicly expressed that single prospective adoptive parents could turn out to be gay and enter a same-sex marriage in their home countries.

The ban would appear to affect citizens in the more than a dozen countries that allow same-sex marriage.

The move comes about a year after Russian lawmakers passed a bill banning adoptions to the United States. The move was widely seen as retaliation for a law the United States passed in 2012 on human rights abusers in Russia.

Protests of policies leading up to Olympics

It also comes amid criticism of the country’s anti-gay policies leading up to the Winter Olympic Games, which Russia is now hosting in Sochi.

Russia’s parliament passed what’s known as the gay propaganda law in June. The legislation makes it illegal to tell children about gay equality.

The law was widely criticized by Western leaders who called it archaic and discriminatory. Human rights activists said Russia was unworthy of hosting the Olympics because of it.

U.S. President Barack Obama stepped into the fray, saying at a White House news conference in August that “nobody’s more offended than me” by anti-gay legislation “you’ve been seeing in Russia.”

And Web search giant Google weighed in on the controversy with a rainbow Olympic-themed logo on its home page the day the Games started.

Before the Games, Russian President Vladimir Putin tried to downplay fears that gay visitors would be discriminated against during the Olympics.

Putin said Russia, unlike some other countries, does not criminalize homosexual relationships.

“We don’t outlaw anything and don’t nab anyone,” he said on a visit to Sochi weeks before the Games.

“That’s why you can feel safe and free here,” he added, “but please leave our children in peace.”

Is Russia about to pass another anti-gay law?

CNN’s Jason Hanna and Laura Smith-Spark contributed to this report.

My thoughts and Comments on Reading:

I was not surprised by the Russian Legislative decision: as I was mentioning in my other post, Russia doesn’t “recognize” such diversity as the one based on sex/sexuality. Russia doesn’t embrace this type of diversity: it is always harder to dialogue with someone who denies the fact of existing issues/topic and doesn’t want to shift from their point of view. By Russia I don’t necessarily mean a country as a whole: first of all, there are gays in Russia, second, there are people who accept and respect ANY personal opinion (including the personal identification one) – for as long as of course it doesn’t harm the society. It was interesting to read other peoples’ thoughts and comments: most of them I assume were made by either Americans or any “non-Russian” contingent. Readers were calling to concentrate on the internal problem and not to meddle into the business of another country. it partially comes from the reality (there are indeed a lot of internal problems including the one touched in the article: gay issues ctr.) and maybe partially from the outside-of US-word people’s opinion that America intervenes into other’s business a lot. One can find pro’s and con’s to support the issues: what do you think about it?

TRiO Scholars – Reflection upon the attended event

It was an amazing evening: learned a lot in addition to what I already knew about the program. When I started working and then going to school at UNR I navigated to its website to learn more about the new environment I was about to join. For me, a graduate from a different institution/country, it was a new concept: the philosophy/vision of the program that students from different socioeconomic levels should have equal opportunity to obtain an education. I came to America from the country where the education didn’t cost money, well, at least officially: all it takes is to succeed at K-12, do well on your admission/entrance exam – and you are there! Of course, lots of things have changed since I was an undergraduate there. The society in Russia has changed tremendously since we have steered the wheel to the Western concept of economy – capitalism (changes like that always shake everything up in the society). In Russia there are categories of people who now belong to different socioeconomic levels that certainly could use the services known here at our institution as supportive ones to those who need them most). There are several programs under TRiO umbrella; amongst them are: Upward Bounds focusing on providing support to high school students from underrepresented groups, Gearup – assistance to the first generation college-going students through their middle- and high school years, and McNair Scholars that prepares undergraduate students (low-income, underrepresented) for the future doctoral degrees through the engaging them in participation in to research and other scholarly activities. The mission of the program – to help underrepresented students to overcome different barriers – seems to be achieved and proven to be effective: the speeches of the event participants were the great proof to that. Amongst the guests were the president of UNR, Marc Johnson, the vice president for student services, Shannon Ellis, the director of the Academic & Opportunity Support Services, Rita Escher and many more, and of course, the TRiO students, parents and all others who were interested to learn about the wonderful opportunity and support provided on campus. The message of the event to all of the attendees was: if there is a will there is a way and we will sure help you find the way! The mission of the TRiO program is not to serve only underrepresented students but anybody who qualifies: those who have an academic need (tutoring services et al. provided), US citizens (or eligible non-citizens), in a word, a very diverse group of students! When I asked a couple of people who attended the event how the TRiO programs impacted diversity I already knew the answer: directly! Indeed, the program serves the needs of so many different (read: diverse) people, its mission outlines the importance of what the program does. If the name of the program (TRiO) was chosen based on its definition (in music it means: a method of vocalization of three voices or instruments that makes a melodious music or song) then I can see that the union of those services provided definitely serves the community needs!

10 Things a College Graduate Needs to know

What are the 10 things a college graduate needs to know?

Life “after college” is full of excitement, opportunities, experimenting and fun! It is a new chapter in college graduates’ life, but can it be scary? You bet! I remember my college graduation and the morning after that when I had to decide what my next step was. The question “what I want to be when I grow up” was answered a long time ago along with choosing the major, now – how do I apply it? What is my next step? Whom do I approach? Advisors stayed in school, doing their job – helping new students. Parents? But I am a “big girl” now, I should know what I want to do with my life. Here is some things I wish I knew before I “mastered” it down the road (through the mistakes, tears, frustration, very seldom taking it from someone who was more experienced and went through the similar issues). So, graduates, sit down, calm down (don’t forget to breathe) and take some time to think and plan your future, well, if not the whole life, at least your career (which for the most parts are the same, don’t you think?)

1. Get up, get out and go!!!
Yes, exactly – nobody’s going to appoint you as a director of the oil company, even if you have a degree in Business! You need to be ACTIVE, PROACTIVE, if you will. Word of advice: it comes very useful to have your resume ready beforehand. Highlight your best abilities (don’t get carried away with portraying yourself as a highly professional – get your feet on the ground: you just graduated! Unless you do have an experience working during the school time). Look around (well, frankly it could have been done even earlier): what’s “on the market”? Do you qualify? What can you do (where can you start) to get the experience to get your “dream” work eventually. Do some research about the potential workplace for you, go introduce yourself (yes, it is all online now, but let me tell you – that won me a job – employers still like to see faces behind the resumes – it shows you are really interested: it can help to pass through the initial screening and get you interviewed).

2. Learn how to handle your job interview; bring ideas (have your vision)
Common mistake: people think they are ready for the interview if they have a great resume (sometimes composed by professionals). Yes, resume is important (required) and needs to reflect your “real talents.” It will help applicants to get through the selecting process. Once there: lots of employers like, appreciate and encourage if an applicant has an idea about the environment he is applying for (once again: do the research), and more importantly, rather than making it all about himself (what a wonderful candidate he/she is) try to think what new and interesting ideas you can bring in if being selected (especially applies to a leadership position).

3. Did not get a job of your dream – learn how to move on, not give up, and be patient.
Everything happens for the reason: don’t get your expectations crashed if you didn’t get it immediately. Be realistic: you were not the only, yes, it gets more and more competitive. Instead try and see if there is possibility for you to get some experience in the related field, or get some extra skills. If possible consider getting an advance degree (Grad School) or an additional spatiality. Waiting is something too! Stay positive.
4. Investing for the future.
I think it should be a class taught as early as in middle school with the constant reinforcement down the road at the next educational steps (high school, college): learn how to invest. Don’t wait for the “Big Check,” start with the little saving/investment; avoid big debts (or any kinds of debts for that matter). They say “start your retirement contribution from your very first paycheck.”
5. Don’t be afraid to change your mind.
I have met many people who now regret that they preferred to leave everything as it is rather than making changes and now they feel miserable. Chose the wrong major? Didn’t fix it when being in college? Thought it was a highly demanded job and now realized the prestigiousness of it shifted? Try something new! It is your life!
6. Nice personality sometimes overweighs capability.
Sounds strange, doesn’t it? But people do prefer being around someone who is pleasant but maybe a bit less capable than those who are grumpy, always whiny and negative.
7. Appreciate life: enjoy those little moments (don’t wait for something gigantic).
Stay positive! Life is full of struggles and disappointments, but it also gives you lots of great moments: don’t take small things (and big too) for granted.
8. Live and Learn.
Don’t you think that all these sayings people have been collecting over the time are priceless and concise statements of wisdom? Use them: you don’t have to invent the wheel. To learn new interesting stuff one can use in an everyday life, apply to the job etc., one doesn’t have to necessarily go back to school and get a second bachelor’s degree. Get yourself updated on what is going on; explore within your area of interest, read, communicate with other people; if interested attend conferences and participate in debates; blog!
9. Be around those who understand you.
Don’t try to win “haters”: don’t waste your time on that. If there is nothing can be done immediately in term of changing the “environment”, learn how to deal/work with them: don’t let them “get you”.
10. Better later than never.
Made mistakes? Didn’t do something earlier? See your peers succeed when you are still at the same level? Don’t give up: everything is possible – just believe in yourself! Refer to the past success of individuals or a group of people: they did it so can you! Give yourself a good pep talk or allow others do that to you: sometimes all we need is a little encouragement to activate the inner strengths you might not even know about.

Former Disney stars discuss racist online comments

Actresses Tia and Tamera Mowry sat down for an emotional interview as they discussed some of the racist and hurtful comments they’ve received online criticizing their marriages.

The twins were brutally honest during their special on OWN’s Where Are They Now show — recounting some of the racial online bullying they’ve endured from those who are not accepting of their marriages.

Tamera is an interracial marriage with Fox news correspondent Adam Housley and the two welcomed their first child just over a year ago. However, she shared that her relationship with her husband has been heavily scrutinized and she went on to rehash some of the negative responses she has received online, which were enough to bring her to tears.

“I’ve never experienced so much hate ever in my life, ever,” she said. “I get called ‘White man’s whore,’ the new one was, ‘Back in the day, you cost $300 but now you’re giving it to ‘em for free.’ Stuff that, me as a person, could never even fathom. I can’t even think of these words. It’s very hard for me to think of it because I’m a product of it. My mom is a beautiful black woman and my dad is an amazing white man. I grew up seeing a family.”

“This is the big one, they say, ‘Oh, Tia’s a true black woman, because she married a black man.’”

Her sister helped to comfort her by wiping away her tears as she shared some of the negative comments she’s received as well.

Tia recounted times where she’s heard responses from people who have criticized her for marrying a black man, actor Cory Hardrict, saying that the comments she has received reflect thoughts from those who say her twin sister “had done it right by marrying a white man.”

But through it all, Tia says: “I love my husband so much, I love our family. I love our dynamic. I’m proud to be in the relationship that I am because it’s based on love, pure love.”

 

Comments on a Material:

Those who liked “Sister, sister”, the popular TV sitcom of 90’s (I enjoyed watching it!) will probably recognize the cute tween sisters adopted by different parents from these beautiful, successful young woman. Celebrities’ life is not always Oscar Nomination, Red Carpet, numerous fans, ctr. They are people like us, with their own happy and not very happy moments and issues, with one “little twist”: their private life is often discussed in public – the pay for the fame -c’est la vie! Looks like racism can be found within any race! “You are a truly black woman because you chose to marry a black man” – that’s a silly comment to say the least. As Tamera Mowry is now happily married to a white man, she began receiving lots of negative comments on her marriage. She is openly talking on her private life, how happy she is, and her life values. As sisters are actually a “product” of a inter-racial marriage, it is hard for them to understand how people in 21st century are still not open minded and such problem as racism still exists. I am myself is married to a Mexican man, with whom we have our beautiful daughter: lucky me, I guess: we have never heard any comments (or she, as she goes to a school with the mostly white population) – it would hurt me bad! Although I do remember when we went to Russia, people would ask me if I adopted her: I think it was just a curiosity as no negative comments followed as I would explain that I was married to a “darker skinned” guy.

 

New Academic Achievement Standards Based On Race, Ethnicity: Florida Goes First

Just a few weeks after a similar move by Virginia was met with controversy, Florida has also adopted achievement standards based on race and ethnicity.

Approved this week by the Florida Board of Education, the new race-based standards affect all 2.6 million students that attend the state’s 3,629 public schools. The mandate stipulates that by 2018, 90 percent of Asian students, 88 percent of white students, 81 percent of Hispanic students and 74 percent of black students are to be reading at or above grade level. The state also wants 86 percent of white students, 92 percent of Asians, 80 percent of Hispanics and 74 percent of blacks to be at or above their math grade level, according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

The new goals are required under Florida’s waiver from No Child Left Behind. Many expressed skepticism over the race-based targets.

“To expect less from one demographic and more from another is just a little off-base,” Juan Lopez, magnet coordinator at John F. Kennedy Middle School in Riviera Beach, told the Palm Beach Post. The school’s black student population is about 88 percent. “Our kids, although they come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, they still have the ability to learn. To dumb down the expectations for one group, that seems a little unfair.”

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush previously said such measures would send a “devastating message” that black and Hispanic students weren’t as capable as others. Palm Beach County School Board Vice-Chair Debra Robinson tells the Post that she’s “somewhere between complete and utter disgust and anger and disappointment with humanity.”

Florida officials, however, say the opposite, noting that the standards are meant to acknowledge current performance and make a plan for improvement.

According to author and presidential professor emeritus at UCLA Jeannie Oakes, eliminating traditional tracking methods that measure performance based on race is essential to facilitating comparable success among different races.

“Once we put students in groups, we give them very different opportunities to learn — with strong patterns of inequality across teachers, experience, and competence,” Oakes says. “There was this pervasive view that Latino and African American kids can’t measure up in a way that more affluent or white kids can and we can’t do anything about it.”

In addition to race, the new achievement standards in Florida also set goals for children with disabilities and those still learning English, in addition to those who come from low-income households.

Comments on a material:

This was a part of my material used for “Administrative Problems in Higher Education” class. I decided to bring this up to look at the problem from a diversity angle. As one can see, the Florida Board of Education is changing the educational criteria based on race: although the goal is to improve students’ academic level (particular in reading and Math), lots of people see the new standards quite racist. “Once we put students in groups, we give them very different opportunities to learn — with strong patterns of inequality across teachers, experience, and competence,” the professor from UCLA says, adding: “There was this pervasive view that Latino and African American kids can’t measure up in a way that more affluent or white kids can and we can’t do anything about it.” I wonder where this “pervasive view” came from? Who suggested that and what supportive evidence of that they have? I agree that setting up such “goals” is not the most effective way of improving our education. The lower expectations  – the lower achievements.

2/12/2014: Reflection upon Class Material

Diversity class: when signing up I imagined book material discussions with occasional other materials from different sources primarily on just racial problems. I am amazed with the way the class is being conducted: delivered material is so up to date: every time it is a top discussed theme that was launched online recently yet it is connected to the past (as we are learning about how it was “back in a day”), and of course to the primary topic of the class – diversity in a higher education (I like the idea of also discussing of any contemporary issues, and finding diversity in people’s reaction to the topic through comments/feedback). It changed my perspectives as a person and a professional on numerous things: I am learning to think “broader”, out-of -box. It is extremely important for me in particular as I am from the country (Russia) where for many years people were not “allowed” to think differently; of course, there have always been rebels who, depending on the time period, were severely punished, or just “not heard”. When it is finally allowed (officially have one’s opinion), lots of people are still afraid to speak their mind (I am not talking of course about the whole nation) or are still “trapped in the box.” One of the topics that really got my attention was Disney Company. In class we were discussing whether one could call the Disney production racist. Had you asked me this question when I was still living in my country and remembered enjoying watching the beautiful cartoons and movies, I would say “of course not! What’s racist about it?” That would be an answer from someone living in a mostly mono-race country. I guess your diversity perspectives get even more “diverse” depending on a “geographical location” and ethnicity (population).

Another thing: it was interesting to see how we connected the San Francisco strike to the creation/development of a curriculum for the Ethnic studies (one of the demands of strikers): when a group of people are requesting any changes they have to be prepared to implement those changes into the concrete project. Strike is not just for strike, just to feel the adrenalin rushing through your blood and satisfaction of being heard and seeing the possibility of making it happen: it is hard to start from the scratch. As lots was achieved throughout all these years and obviousness of importance of ethnic studies proved itself, it was quite interesting to listen to the debate on whether or not the ethnic studies should be taught in Arizona K-12. As we could see (hear) that the opponents were not far from one another, but they had the major disagreement on the delivery system (exclusion/inclusion). As I am not an American high school graduate I wonder if any of the ethnic studies are included into an American History school course, or it describes only the “”white people” accomplishments (or for the most parts); some people commented on the video by saying that if it was included it wouldn’t be a need for ethnic studies as a separate course – kind of hard to agree as the ethnic studies can cover much more than just a chapter or two in a history book.