Welcome to the first What I Read This Week Roundup! If you were looking for something interesting to read, you have come to the right place! Below are some articles that I found worth my time this week.
My Family’s Slave
Writer Alex Tizon recalls life with his family’s indentured servant who they called Lola, how he realized that what was considered normal in Filipino culture was anything but normal, and his attempt to make amends.
The Enslaved Woman They Called Lola
This is a response to the above article, looking at the nuances of the process of enslavement and how Tizon never fully grasped the effects of enslavement on their servant’s psyche.
Stunning Photos Debunk the Myth that Queerness is ‘Un-African’
Queer Nigerian-Swedish American photographer Mikael Chukwuma Owunna’s portrait series Limit(less) documents what queerness looks like among LGBTQ African immigrants around the world. Side note: Owunna has a kickstarter campaign for a documentary of the same name that ends June 8th.
Science Has Begun Taking Gluten Seriously
In light of the fad of people who don’t have celiac disease or a gluten intolerance choosing to go gluten free, scientists and medical professionals are putting more money and time into learning about the physiological effects of gluten. This article is interesting because it not only covers some of the recent research on gluten, but it addresses the risks that people put themselves at by following fads and why we (health professionals) need to remain updated on consumer views and health beliefs.
Wasted Energy on the Battles Against Appropriation and Racism: Indigenous Systems are Resistance
This blog post looks at the systemic injustices against indigenous peoples and makes the argument that instead of trying to police others or gain access to a system that continually tries to exclude them, building self-reliance within the community is the key to destroying colonial systems.
The U.S. is Waging a Massive Shadow War in Africa, Exclusive Documents Reveal
Special Operators in the U.S. military are carrying out nearly 100 missions at any given time (aka, every day) in Africa. Read this article to learn about SOCAFRICA and what their involvement could mean for the stabilization (or destabilization) of Africa in the future.
After Latest Bombshells, Only Michel Temer’s Removal and New Elections Can Save Brazil’s Democracy
In 2016, Brazil was busy. Not only did they host the Olympics, but they impeached their president Dilma Rousseff because she was “guilty of breaking budgetary laws.” In her place, Michel Temer was installed as president and boy, lots of corruption is going on right now. Read to see how much.
Her Eyes Were Watching the Stars: How Missy Elliott Became an Icon
A great profile on legendary artist Missy Elliot, her creativity, and what she means to many in this generation. Do I really need to say more to convince you to read this article?
If there’s anything else that you think I should be reading this week, let me know in the comments!