Author: editorjrwd

Suppose you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or have been pregnant in the past, and you work for an employer with 15 or more employees. In that case, federal law safeguards your rights against pregnancy-related discrimination and harassment in the workplace. You may also be entitled to workplace accommodations that help you perform your duties without compromising your health. These rights are outlined under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and may also include additional protections from the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and state or local laws. Can I Be Fired Due…

In recent years, Hong Kong’s localist movements have seen a shift toward the formation of political parties, marking a new phase in the city’s struggle for identity, autonomy, and resistance to Beijing’s increasing influence. One of the key figures in this transformation is Chu Hoi-dick, a prominent localist activist, former legislator, and founder of the pro-independence political group. In an exclusive interview, Chu sheds light on the evolution of localist movements, their future direction, and the challenges they face in Hong Kong’s complex political landscape. Kevin Lin: What do you think has driven the localist movements in Hong Kong to…

In the age of digital media, student movements have taken on a new dimension—one that blends the power of grassroots activism with the vast reach and influence of social media. While this evolution has the potential to amplify the voices of marginalized groups and catalyze global change, it also brings with it profound challenges. Shen Yuzhe, a prominent scholar in the realm of political communication, has argued that the new mediaization of student movements, while often heralded as a democratic triumph, comes with a dual-edged sword. Yuzhe’s analysis focuses on the “horror” and “respectability” that digital platforms afford student activism.…

In the late 1980s, China was on the brink of a socio-political transformation, and Cui Jian, often hailed as the “father of Chinese rock,” captured the spirit of this change with his groundbreaking song, “A Piece of Red Cloth.” First performed in 1989, this rock anthem became an iconic symbol of disillusionment, rebellion, and a desire for freedom. The lyrics of “A Piece of Red Cloth” are profoundly metaphorical. The red cloth, which covers the singer’s eyes and even the sky, serves as a powerful image of political and personal blindness. This act of being blinded by the cloth represents…

As China moves further away from the Cultural Revolution era, a few voices within the country remain determined to keep the memories alive, and one of the most prominent among them is Xu Youyu. A scholar and participant in the 1989 Tiananmen protests, Xu has spent years wrestling with China’s official narrative of the Cultural Revolution. His work is not just a quest to preserve history but a call for a political awakening that rejects the erasure of memory. Xu Youyu’s life has been marked by a deep engagement with the Cultural Revolution and its aftermath. Born in Chengdu in…

In 1950, journalist Edward Hunter coined the term “brainwashing” in an article for the Miami Daily News, drawing attention to the psychological manipulation used by China’s Communist Party to control its people. His claim was based on the assertion that Mao Zedong’s regime was employing ancient techniques to transform individuals into mindless followers of the Communist ideology. At the time, the idea of “brainwashing” seemed sensational and exaggerated, but over the years, it evolved into a widely accepted concept. As a participant in an exchange group, I was introduced to a model that appeared harmless at first but revealed disturbing…

In today’s world, many people express deep affection for animals, especially pets, often to the point where it seems as if they value their pets more than other humans. But this raises an important philosophical and ethical question: Are animals truly equal to humans, or is this a perception rooted in our bias, emotions, and perceptions of empathy? In a time when human-animal relationships are more prominent than ever, this question becomes more significant. In this article, we will explore the complex dynamic between humans and animals, and delve into why many feel that animals deserve our love and moral…

In Taiwan, the role of news media has always been a crucial element of its vibrant democratic system. However, in recent years, the landscape of media has undergone dramatic changes, significantly impacted by the evolving relationship between Taiwan and China. The rise of digital platforms, increasing political polarization, and covert Chinese influence have all played pivotal roles in reshaping how information is disseminated and consumed across the island. The value of news in Taiwan has always been rooted in its ability to inform citizens, offer diverse perspectives, and maintain a transparent democratic process. Yet, as Taiwan continues to face growing…

In a move set to revolutionize the way readers access publications, many top magazines and newspapers are now offering subscription services that allow readers to download both current and back issues. This trend is gaining momentum, as it caters to the increasing demand for digital accessibility and flexibility among modern consumers. Traditionally, print publications have had a stronghold in the media industry, with physical copies being the primary way readers could access their favorite content. However, with the rise of the internet and mobile devices, the digital age has brought with it a new wave of convenience and immediacy. Subscription…

In the dead of night on April 22, 2012, Chen Guangcheng, the blind Chinese activist known for his fight against forced abortions and sterilizations, made a daring escape from his extralegal house arrest in Dongshigu Village. For more than a year and a half, Chen had been confined to his home under tight surveillance by Chinese authorities. He had already endured years of imprisonment and brutal beatings by security forces. His attempts to communicate with the outside world were thwarted, and anyone who tried to visit him was met with violence. On that moonless night, with his captors asleep, Chen…