Opinion
Editorial pieces from contributors and staff
Art versus RISD
"I have argued that the common good, and in particular social justice, is something beautiful," wrote Henk E.S. Wording in his essay, Social Justice as a Work of Art in Action. "I characterized social justice as both a work of fine art that produces delight and as a work of useful art that serves human needs. I would also say that it is a work of useful art which produces love."
Jacob Brier: The Indoctrination of a Nation
"Our experiences socialize us into a society that prioritizes some groups over others. This is why we must take the time and energy to explicitly consider other groups; those who remain under-represented, today."
The Unfairness of Fines: How They Worsen Wealth Gaps and Weaken Laws
Penalties for breaking the law are meant to deter individuals from committing offenses and ensure that justice is served. However, in many cases, laws that impose fines as penalties have become ineffective in achieving these goals, parti...
Oped: "High profile" unhoused encampments get the help they need, the rest experience state violence
No matter how violent and uncaring the state actually is when dealing with unhoused people, government officials don't want to look like they are violent and uncaring. They still feel the need to maintain the facade that they give a shit. The caring response provided to a very few, highly visible members of the unhoused community can provide cover for the business-as-usual brutality and displacement the majority face on a day-to-day basis.
Rethinking Speed Cameras in Rhode Island: Privacy, Profits, and Road Safety Concerns
Speed cameras have become an increasingly contentious issue in Rhode Island and across the United States. While proponents argue that they reduce accidents and save lives, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests the costs outweigh the benefits.
Rejecting discrimination: Rhode Island stands against anti-LGBTQ legislation
Rhode Island legislators are introducing bills targeting LGBTQ people, especially transgender and non-binary youth. Local organizations and advocates unite to condemn these attacks and affirm their commitment to protecting the well-being of LGBTQ Rhode Islanders and their loved ones.
Michael C Steiner: Representative Quattrocchi places conspiracy theories above all else
"Quattrocchi should take a seat and observe how he is harming his constituents with his outbursts that place conspiracy theories above all else. Since 2018 Representative Quattrocchi has only felt emboldened to dog whistle and parrot these theories. At what point is enough enough?"
Martin Lynn: What does "we're public transit" even mean?
"The largest economic zones in the world all have incredibly well funded, well maintained, affordable, accessible, fast, easy to use, and constantly running public transit. If we want to grow our local economy, our leaders should look no further than investing in transit. "
Grace and grievance in the Rhode Island House
Representative Robert Quattrocchi was removed from one of three committee assignments by Speaker Shekarchi in response to his "pedophile" comments.
Interim RIDOC Director Wayne Salisbury oversaw torture and death as Wyatt warden
When Ng was finally allowed to see a doctor, he was diagnosed with liver cancer and a broken spine. He died five days later, a result of the preceding months of negligence and cruelty from the prison administrators at the Wyatt. During this time, Wayne Salisbury was the warden at the Wyatt and had legal custody of Ng.