“Miss why do we have to read this?”

          I believe it is beneficial for teachers to teach old and archaic texts to their students. These texts often reflect the original way that educated people of the time period thought; these same ideas sometimes evolved into modern day concepts. Reading old text is often difficult and involving breaking down ideas and concepts this can improve a student’s reading fluency and comprehension. Frequently, the texts presented to students are legal documents that give historical context to modern pieces that they may be reading. Books that are written or staged in the past can be best appreciated by someone who has a clear understanding on how to read archaic texts. Although I have been taught many things in my life that make me question the importance of knowing such a thing, reading and attempting to comprehend archaic texts has always seemed purposeful.

Federal Government Shutdown

The Federal government shutdown will affect millions of workers, military personnel, our Veterans, the disabled and so many more, including our women and children.  Until Congress comes to an agreement of sorts, all "non-essential" workers and non-essential funding will cease.  How then are women directly affected, aside from the obvious employed by our government?  

For one, women who rely on federally funded programs such as WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, who are responsible for meeting the nutritional needs of 53 percent of all infants in the US, will have to do without.  Another is TANF, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, who is often times the only lifeline for single moms and women everywhere. Let’s not forget, those women who are attending college and rely on Federal Loans and Pell Grants to continue their education may see delays due to financial aid officer’s mandatory temporary layoffs. 

These are just a few of the many ways this government shutdown will directly or indirectly affect those who need it the most.  Congress with all due respect… Do Your Job!  After all, you are still getting paid for it!  

http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2013/10/01/government_shutdown_from_wic_to_the_panda_cam_seven_ways_the_shutdown_will.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/10/01/the-nine-most-painful-consequences-of-a-government-shutdown/

Sexist advertisements in history are a clear demonstration to how hard American women have had to work to earn their respect. So we might as well laugh at the idiotic attempts to sell products to male consumers. 

Malala is an inspiration to women everywhere

Mumbai Gang Rape Survivor Wants To Get Back To Work, Insists That 'Rape Is Not The End Of Life'

Rape, degrading and horrific, is an unspeakable reality that most do not wish to ever discuss or bring the issue to light. A young journalist in Mumbai a victim of gang rape seeks change, stricter laws, and punishments for sexual crimes and harassment in India. The government insists that they have cracked down on these laws but frequent rapes tell the public otherwise. Women are fighting not only for the stricter laws but for the rightful sense of security that will come with these revisions, not only for themselves but for their daughters and granddaughters.