Opinion
Editorial pieces from contributors and staff
Hard Truths: The United States is Not a Democracy
Our report dives into the hard truths behind our electoral processes, tactics used by both major parties to influence elections, and the erosion of checks and balances, revealing a system that may be democratic in name, but falls far short in practice. The evidence we present may be very uncomfortable for some, but it is essential reading for anyone who values the principles of true representative government and seeks to understand the reality of American democracy today.
Community health workers need love too
Koren Carbuccia, a certified Community Health Worker (CHW) from Rhode Island, shares her inspiring journey to Washington D.C. to advocate for increased access to CHWs under Medicaid and Medicare. Learn about the vital role CHWs play in addressing the social determinants of health and supporting underserved communities.
About our redesigned homepage: A focus on helping Rhode Islanders
Uprise RI has launched a new homepage focusing on exclusive in-house tools: BillBuddy, The Helping Hand, and RI Rank. Learn why we've shifted our focus, how these tools provide unmatched value to Rhode Islanders, and what exciting new features we have in store.
Keys: Community-Centric Approach Needed in Upholding CRA
The recent overhaul of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) by key financial regulators brings a pivotal moment for banking institutions. It's a chance to rectify past injustices like redlining. Yet, crucial voices are missing in the discussions: those of the communities themselves. Are banks truly addressing the specific credit needs of these communities, or are they simply ticking regulatory boxes?
Rhode Island's Forests at Risk: When Conservation Laws Are Ignored
Despite legislation aimed at preserving Rhode Island's pristine forests, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has consistently overlooked its duty. For decades, the state's natural ecology has been compromised, with logging interests overshadowing conservation efforts. Dive into the intricate web of policies, politics, and the urgent call for change.
Monopolies: How Limited Competition Affects Everyday Life
The FTC's recent court cases and new guidelines signal a seismic shift in the fight against monopolies. With a sharper focus on potential competition and a deeper analysis of mergers, the FTC is taking a bold stand to protect consumers and small businesses. The era of unchecked monopolies may be nearing its end.
Behind Closed Doors: The Forces Tearing Apart Public Education in Providence
The closure of Alan Shawn Feinstein (ASF) Elementary at Broad Street in Providence raises concerns about community marginalization, planned disinvestment, and the dismantling of public education. The decision to close the school, which allegedly resulted from declining student enrollment and building conditions, is seen by many as a ploy to pave the way for a charter school. The lack of public input and the defunding of multiple schools point to systemic issues undermining community engagement and the future of public education.
Open Letter from the Organizing Committee to Save Alan Shawn Feinstein Elementary at Broad Street
On December 12, 2022, families, teachers, and students at Alan Shawn Feinstein Elementary at Broad Street learned that Providence Schools, under control of the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), had decided to close their school at the end of the 2022-2023 school year.
Westerly Town Council rejects book banning
Many of those testifying at the meeting Monday night were librarians. Librarians stand on the front lines, protecting the First Amendment rights of Americans.
Yaimani Rivera to Mayor Smiley: Do better when engaging with South Providence
In an open letter to Providence Mayor Brett Smiley, South Providence resident Yaimani Rivera questions whether the Mayor's recent appointments are familiar with the inequities her neighborhood faces...