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Newsweek
a day ago
- General
- Newsweek
Juneteenth Is Under Attack Because It Tells the Truth About Power
On Dec. 21, 1848, two people boarded a train in Macon, Ga., beginning a journey to Philadelphia. They were traveling together, but laws, particularly slave codes, made it so they needed to sit in separate cars. To others on the train, everything seemed relatively normal. In their eyes, a white man with an injured arm and bandages on his face had boarded the train with his dark-skinned slave. He sat down in the comfortable "whites only" section while his devoted slave, assured that his "master" was relaxed, proceeded to the crowded "negro" car to find his seat. On a surface level, the traveling pair symbolized differences in the life experiences of Black men versus white men. At each stop on their four-day journey, the Black man was degraded and sent away to eat and sleep where he would not be seen and where conditions would be subpar. The white man, on the other hand, traveled in luxury, welcomed with sympathy. In other words, one of the two travelers was seen as a human being with rights to live freely and make their own decisions, to be treated with dignity and care; the other was either infantilized at best or completely dehumanized. A Juneteenth flag waves in front of the main door of the Department of Commerce, on June 21, 2024. A Juneteenth flag waves in front of the main door of the Department of Commerce, on June 21, 2024. Getty Images What the people they encountered were unaware of was that this duo was relying on the assumptions of their time, the prejudices of their contemporaries, and the dictates of the status quo for far more than a medical trip. They were heading to Philadelphia in search of freedom from it all, to release the chains of captivity that bound them, and to escape the cruel, inhumane practice of slavery. This quest was not solely for the liberation of William Craft, the Black man. It was also for his wife, an enslaved woman named Ellen, who cut her hair to neck length, sewed herself a pair of men's trousers, and wore a hat and glasses to conceal her identity. The couple knew that if Ellen were to pose as a white man she would be required to sign documents on behalf of her "slave," but because both of them had been restricted by law from learning to read or write, they wrapped her arm in bandages and feigned an injury. As we celebrate Juneteenth this year, all while facing the attempted erasure of this important day on behalf of our current administration, the true story of Ellen and William Craft reveals far more than historical injustice. It shows us how the desire to eliminate the day that commemorates Black American freedom is an attempt to uphold a social order that relies on categorizing human beings based on skin color and sex, a social order that I refer to as American patriarchy. American patriarchy is a system that has long defined national identity by the dominance of white, cisgender, straight, able-bodied men. This ideology has always relied on the exclusion, suppression, and erasure of other histories. Their story reminds us that understanding and resisting American patriarchy is essential if we hope to create something new. The Craft's ability to run to freedom in this way displayed a mastery of a book they had been forced to study all their life. Ellen knew her character well because her survival had already depended on it long before she cut her hair and sewed her pants. She had picked up the knowledge she needed to turn American patriarchy into her escape, by observing those who called themselves her masters. She had been forced to learn the intricacies of American patriarchy from the moment she was born, to examine those who aimed to oppress her down to the smallest of details. Once fluent in their ways, with the story of American patriarchy memorized, she transferred it beautifully into her four-day journey as a white man. This is why knowledge of Juneteenth, Black Independence Day, is under attack: it threatens the story that power must remain unchallenged. When we know stories like those of Ellen and William Craft, we know how far we have come, we know we cannot ever stop being keenly aware of what we are facing, and we know we must use that knowledge to escape the traps of American patriarchy. When Juneteenth and all the stories it carries are erased from our institutions, it is not because they are unimportant; it is because they threaten a narrative that insists power must remain concentrated and historical accountability avoided. Juneteenth is a reminder of a different legacy, one of resistance, survival, and the persistent redefinition of what this country can become. Recognizing Juneteenth, defending its place in our national consciousness, is not just about honoring the past. It is about being fully aware of what we are up against and choosing the kind of future we are willing to fight for. Anna Malaika Tubbs is a scholar, advocate, and two time bestselling author currently making headlines for her newest release Erased: What American Patriarchy Has Hidden from Us. The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
A company should be subjected to fatwa, says Federal Court judge
PUTRAJAYA: A company would still be bound by a fatwa (edict), especially in the case involving Sisters in Islam (SIS) Forum Malaysia, as the company comprises Muslims and its work is related to Islam, says a Federal Court judge. Justice Abu Bakar Jais, who held the dissenting view in a 3-1 majority decision at the Federal Court, stated that a company could not exist without individuals managing it and asserted that the people behind SIS were Muslims. ALSO READ: Federal Court allows appeal by SIS over deviant fatwa ruling On Thursday (June 19), the Federal Court allowed an appeal by SIS regarding the application of a fatwa issued by the Selangor state religious authorities against the company, which labelled SIS as 'deviant.' The majority decision held that the edict was not applicable to SIS as it was an entity and not a natural person. "On this issue, I am compelled to say that this court's focus should not be blinkered by the assertion that since the first appellant is a company, therefore it could not be subjected to the fatwa. "It is also regressive in approach to ignore the people supporting the company and simply say that since it is a company, it could not be bound by the fatwa. This should not be done as one ought to have the vision and foresight in asking who the people are behind this company," Justice Abu Bakar said in his standalone decision. The judge said that the company's name was a giveaway of its identity. "Its own name, SIS Forum (Malaysia) or 'Sisters in Islam', clearly shows its identity. Is that insufficiently clear? I do not think so. "The very least, the second appellant (Zainah Anwar), who was the executive director and founder of the first appellant (SIS), is a Muslim," he said, noting that the company directors and members were also Muslims. Justice Abu Bakar said he found it "disturbing" that SIS could "escape" and not be subjected to the fatwa simply by being a company, but nonetheless ventured to make assertions and express views affecting the precepts and tenets of Islam. "It should not be concluded just because a company is not a person professing Islam as a religion, such as in this case, the provision of the Federal Constitution should not apply to the same," Justice Abu Bakar said. He was also of the opinion that the dispute regarding the fatwa should have been considered within the jurisdiction of the Syariah Courts and not the civil courts, and this 'formulation' by the apex court was still good law. Justice Abu Bakar also said it was high time that a company, although strictly speaking is not a 'person', must also be subjected to a fatwa, especially based on the facts of this case. "Based on all the reasons explained, I have no hesitation in dismissing the present appeal. Lastly, I find it strange if a Syariah Court has no jurisdiction to rule on a dispute about a fatwa," he added. The dissenting view originated from an appeal by SIS at the Federal Court, which was initially heard before a five-judge panel. It arises from a fatwa gazetted by the Selangor state government on July 31, 2014, which declared that SIS, any individual, as well as groups that adopted the deviant ideologies of liberalism and pluralism, were deviating from the teachings of Islam. The fatwa stated that any publications containing liberal and plural views of Islam should be banned and confiscated, and further directs the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to censor social websites, which go against Islamic teaching and hukum syarak. The fatwa also directed that any individuals holding on to liberalism and religious pluralism beliefs should repent and return to the path of Islam. In the majority decision on Thursday, Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat allowed the appeal by SIS to the extent of the edict's application only. CJ Tengku Maimun said the term "persons professing the religion of Islam" refers to natural persons and not artificial persons such as companies, and therefore, the fatwa was unapplicable to an artificial entity. "A company, being an artificial entity, lacks the capacity to repent as proposed by the fatwa. Hence, we conclude that a company cannot 'profess' Islam in order to be lawfully classified as a 'person professing the religion of Islam' under Item 1," she said. Besides the CJ, other judges on the bench were Court of Appeal judge Justice Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim, Federal Court judges Justices P. Nallini, Abu Bakar and recently retired Abdul Karim Abdul Jalil, who left the judiciary in April. Due to Abdul Karim's retirement, the court applied Section 78 of the Court of Judicature Act 1964 to deliver its decision with the remaining four judges on the bench. SIS Forum and its founder, Zainah, filed the judicial review application in October, 2014 to seek a certiorari order to quash the fatwa after its gazettement in Selangor. They named the Selangor Fatwa Committee, the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) and the Selangor state government as respondents. On Aug 27, 2019, the High Court dismissed the judicial review application, prompting them to appeal to the Court of Appeal. On March 14, 2023, the Court of Appeal dismissed SIS's appeal in a 2-1 majority decision on the grounds that the appeal had no merit. SIS then brought its appeal to the Federal Court.
Canada Standard
2 days ago
- Business
- Canada Standard
PM Modi meets UK PM Keir Starmer at G7 summit
Kananaskis [Canada], June 18 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the sidelines of the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. 'An exceptional conversation with Prime Minister Keir Starmer! India and UK ties are getting stronger, reflecting in the ground we've covered in areas like trade and commerce. We will keep working together to add even more momentum to this wonderful friendship,' PM Modi posted on X. Their meeting comes in the wake of the tragic Air India crash, which claimed British lives, casting a sombre backdrop to the interaction between the two leaders. Both sides are expected to remain in close coordination as investigations continue. The crash occurred on June 12, when an Air India flight bound for London from Ahmedabad crashed shortly after takeoff, ramming into a doctors' hostel at BJ Medical College in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. Notably, in May 2025, India and the UK signed a India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step between the world's 4th and 6th largest economies amid ongoing global trade volatility and tariff uncertainties. UK is India's 4th largest export destination and India is UK's 11th largest trading partner. The bilateral trade of about USD 60 billion is projected to double by 2030. It is India's 16th FTA, and the UK's most significant bilateral trade deal post-Brexit. The FTA grants zero-duty access for 99% of Indian exports to the UK, including textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, marine products, sports goods, toys, gems and jewellery, auto parts, engineering goods, and organic chemicals. Automobiles tariffs cut to 10% under a quota, down from over 100% . It also promotes labour mobility. About 100 additional annual visas for Indian professionals, particularly in IT and healthcare. India and the UK also signed a Double Contribution Convention Agreement (also called a Social Security Agreement) as one of the key aspects of the deal. It will ensure that professionals in either country are not forced to pay national insurance or social security contributions in both countries. Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge to participate in the high-level G7 Summit, where he is scheduled to hold multiple bilateral meetings and discuss pressing global issues. Canadian PM Mark Carney received PM Modi as he arrived at the venue of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. This marks his sixth consecutive participation in the G7 Summit and his first visit to Canada in a decade. PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome at the Calgary airport, where India's acting high commissioner, Chinmoy Naik, was among those who received him. Upon arriving in Calgary, Canada, PM Modi on Monday (local time) said he will meet various leaders at the G7 Summit and share his thoughts on important global issues. PM Modi said he will also emphasise the priorities of the Global South. This visit is part of PM Modi's three-nation official tour, which began with Cyprus and will conclude with Croatia. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, 'Landed in Calgary, Canada, to take part in the G7 Summit. Will be meeting various leaders at the Summit and sharing my thoughts on important global issues. Will also be emphasising the priorities of the Global South.' Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that PM Modi will be participating in G7 discussions on the future of energy security, including diversification, technology, infrastructure and investment, to ensure access and affordability in a changing world. 'At the invitation of PM @MarkJCarney, PM @narendramodi arrives in Alberta, Canada for the G7 Summit. PM will be participating in @G7 discussions on the future of energy security, including diversification, technology, infrastructure and investment, to ensure access and affordability in a changing world. PM will also hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines,'Jaiswal posted on X. The Prime Minister arrived in Canada after concluding his visit to Cyprus. PM Modi's visit to Canada marks a significant moment in bilateral ties following a phase of strained diplomatic relations. The G7 Summit is an annual gathering of leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, Canada, and the European Union (EU). This marks PM Modi's sixth consecutive participation in the G7 Summit. (ANI)
India Gazette
2 days ago
- Business
- India Gazette
PM Modi meets UK PM Keir Starmer at G7 summit
Kananaskis [Canada], June 18 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the sidelines of the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. 'An exceptional conversation with Prime Minister Keir Starmer! India and UK ties are getting stronger, reflecting in the ground we've covered in areas like trade and commerce. We will keep working together to add even more momentum to this wonderful friendship,' PM Modi posted on X. Their meeting comes in the wake of the tragic Air India crash, which claimed British lives, casting a sombre backdrop to the interaction between the two leaders. Both sides are expected to remain in close coordination as investigations continue. The crash occurred on June 12, when an Air India flight bound for London from Ahmedabad crashed shortly after takeoff, ramming into a doctors' hostel at BJ Medical College in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. Notably, in May 2025, India and the UK signed a India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step between the world's 4th and 6th largest economies amid ongoing global trade volatility and tariff uncertainties. UK is India's 4th largest export destination and India is UK's 11th largest trading partner. The bilateral trade of about USD 60 billion is projected to double by 2030. It is India's 16th FTA, and the UK's most significant bilateral trade deal post-Brexit. The FTA grants zero-duty access for 99% of Indian exports to the UK, including textiles, apparel, leather, footwear, marine products, sports goods, toys, gems and jewellery, auto parts, engineering goods, and organic chemicals. Automobiles tariffs cut to 10% under a quota, down from over 100% . It also promotes labour mobility. About 100 additional annual visas for Indian professionals, particularly in IT and healthcare. India and the UK also signed a Double Contribution Convention Agreement (also called a Social Security Agreement) as one of the key aspects of the deal. It will ensure that professionals in either country are not forced to pay national insurance or social security contributions in both countries. Earlier in the day, PM Modi arrived at the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge to participate in the high-level G7 Summit, where he is scheduled to hold multiple bilateral meetings and discuss pressing global issues. Canadian PM Mark Carney received PM Modi as he arrived at the venue of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. This marks his sixth consecutive participation in the G7 Summit and his first visit to Canada in a decade. PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome at the Calgary airport, where India's acting high commissioner, Chinmoy Naik, was among those who received him. Upon arriving in Calgary, Canada, PM Modi on Monday (local time) said he will meet various leaders at the G7 Summit and share his thoughts on important global issues. PM Modi said he will also emphasise the priorities of the Global South. This visit is part of PM Modi's three-nation official tour, which began with Cyprus and will conclude with Croatia. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, 'Landed in Calgary, Canada, to take part in the G7 Summit. Will be meeting various leaders at the Summit and sharing my thoughts on important global issues. Will also be emphasising the priorities of the Global South.' Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that PM Modi will be participating in G7 discussions on the future of energy security, including diversification, technology, infrastructure and investment, to ensure access and affordability in a changing world. 'At the invitation of PM @MarkJCarney, PM @narendramodi arrives in Alberta, Canada for the G7 Summit. PM will be participating in @G7 discussions on the future of energy security, including diversification, technology, infrastructure and investment, to ensure access and affordability in a changing world. PM will also hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines,'Jaiswal posted on X. The Prime Minister arrived in Canada after concluding his visit to Cyprus. PM Modi's visit to Canada marks a significant moment in bilateral ties following a phase of strained diplomatic relations. The G7 Summit is an annual gathering of leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, Canada, and the European Union (EU). This marks PM Modi's sixth consecutive participation in the G7 Summit. (ANI)
India Today
3 days ago
- India Today
Anxiety in the air: The mental health aftermath of the Air India crash
Each summer, Aastha Kanojia, a 56-year-old homemaker from Delhi, flies to Ahmedabad to visit her daughter and grandson. This June was no different. Her tickets were booked for the coming weekend, and she was just as excited as always. But then came the tragic news of the Air India crash.'I'm never taking a flight in my life. I would rather take a train,' she tells us. But why do trains suddenly feel safer to some people now, even though data suggests otherwise? More on this psychology later.)The ill-fated Air India flight AI 171, bound for London's Gatwick Airport, crashed into the BJ Medical College hostel building in Ahmedabad within seconds of take-off on June 12. All but one of the 242 passengers and crew on board the Boeing 787-8 were killed, along with 29 others on the ground, including five MBBS grips travellersAastha is not the only one whose outlook on air travel has changed since the (name changed), for instance, who is already an anxious flyer, couldn't breathe easy on Tuesday while her sister and mother were on a flight to Mumbai. Their flight was postponed twice due to bad weather and took longer than usual to land.'From the moment their plane took off to the moment I received the 'landed' text from my sister, I couldn't stop shivering in fear. It wasn't the first time they were flying, but the recent Ahmedabad crash kept making me play out worst-case scenarios in my head. I can't even express the amount of relief I felt once I knew they had landed safely,' says Manisha Singh, who has to travel frequently for work, the recent incident has left her deeply shaken.'I have had difficult flights before and have also experienced odd turbulences, but this crash has shaken me to the core. Two days after the crash, I boarded a flight and had tears streaming down my face the entire time. I held a Hanuman Chalisa in my hand and tried to focus on reading it, but I couldn't stop thinking about what if something goes wrong,' the 50-year-old working professional tells anxiety is already a common issue among flyers. The altitude, unfamiliar surroundings, confined space and overall a lack of control can all contribute to anxious thoughts. The Air India crash has added to the mental health woes of travellers and their loved ones. Flight anxiety has gripped many travelers in India following the tragic crash. (Photo: Unsplash) While some are reconsidering air travel altogether, others are opting for carriers other than Air India and avoiding Boeing aircraft. Even if it means no refund.A Canada-based entrepreneur who travels frequently between the UK, Canada and India reveals he is experiencing 'a psychological block' about flying Air India again. 'I have always supported Air India despite delays and service issues, but now I feel betrayed. If this is a systemic problem, how can I feel safe on the next flight?'For frequent flyers like Ahmedabad-based Gaurav Singh, the incident has led to a renewed sense of someone who flies 5-6 times a month and that too from Ahmedabad (my work base), including at least one international flight on a Boeing aircraft, the recent crash has left a deep and unsettling impact. I find myself paying more attention during safety briefings, double-checking airline reputations, and being more mindful of the aircraft model I am boarding. As a frequent flyer, you build a quiet trust in the system and moments like this shake that trust, even if only slightly," says aviation insiders also acknowledge that the crash has dented public confidence in the industry.'People are now paying attention to aircraft safety, maintenance records, pilot fatigue, issues they never considered before,' a senior airline official told India health experts weigh in'Several clients have brought up the Air India crash in therapy. Some people are anxious, while others are experiencing panic attacks or a resurfacing of past trauma,' Absy Sam, trauma-informed counselling psychologist, tells India Today.'An incident like a major plane crash can deeply affect people in many ways, even those not directly involved. It can create a widespread sense of vulnerability and loss of control, making us question our safety in everyday life,' adds Dr Chandni Tugnait, a psychotherapist and founder-director of Gateway of some, it can directly trigger flight anxiety, also known as aviophobia or aerophobia.'What happens then is that it becomes difficult to distinguish between actual danger and perceived threat. The body responds as if it's experiencing trauma first-hand. This is what we refer to as vicarious trauma or secondary trauma,' explains impact goes beyond 'just feeling nervous'. A tragic incident like this can incite a range of psychological, emotional, physical, and behavioural responses.'Intrusive thoughts like 'What if my plane crashes?' or a desire to avoid flying altogether are common trauma reactions, as the brain enters a hypervigilant state. Emotionally, intense fear, helplessness, and anxiety may surface, not just for oneself, but also for loved ones who travel,' explains feelings often come with physical symptoms such as a racing heart, nausea, or trembling, and can be triggered even by booking a flight. As a coping mechanism, many begin to avoid air travel, obsessively check flight details, or compulsively seek out safety information.'Even for those who don't develop full-blown anxiety, there might be a general sense of unease, a heightened awareness of risk, and increased empathy for the victims and their families. The media's constant coverage can also amplify these feelings, making it harder to move past the immediate shock,' adds Dr Chandni with the flight fearFirstly, tell yourself that it is okay to feel this way. Feeling shaken or anxious in response is natural. Furthermore, you are not alone. However, know that managing flight anxiety is possible constant news updates or visuals on social media are making you feel unsafe or uneasy right now, here are a few grounding techniques to help calm your system:Splash or wash your face and hands with cold waterHold an ice cube in your handPress your feet firmly into the ground or gently lift your heels while seatedDo you have a flight to board?Before the flight, try to engage in activities that soothe and regulate your nervous system.'For some, this might be journalling, prayer, meditation, listening to music, or reading, whatever helps you feel grounded and centred. You can also reach out to a therapist, a trusted friend, or a loved one and let them know how you're feeling. Ask if they can hold space for you. Simply being heard and supported can make a big difference,' suggests breathing: You can do it both before and after boarding the for 4 seconds. Hold your breath for 4 seconds. Exhale for 6 seconds. The extended exhale signals safety to your body and helps regulate a comfort item: Something that gives you a sense of ease. For some, it could be a religious scripture, a photograph, or even something as simple as a cup of coffee. It really depends on what feels comforting to stimulation: This technique involves rhythmically tapping each knee with the same-side hand - left hand on left knee, then right hand on right knee - in a steady, alternating pattern. It can help calm the nervous system. Whether you are jittery about taking a flight or battling anxious thoughts while the plane is cruising above 30,000 ft, this technique can come social media and news consumption: Sam also suggests limiting exposure to distressing or triggering content on the news or social media. Constantly consuming such information can reinforce feelings of fear.'Focus on reliable information about aviation safety statistics. Understanding how planes work, how pilots are trained, and how turbulence is a normal part of flying (like bumps on a road) can help make the process less mysterious,' says Dr Chandni in with the airline about their safety protocols: 'Understanding what measures are in place can help you feel more in control. Onboard, focus on complying with safety norms and trust the processes that are designed to protect you,' says to the crew: Don't hesitate to tell the flight attendants that you're a nervous flyer. They are trained to help and can offer reassurance during the flight. If you feel anxious during a flight, inform the crew. Whether or not you're flying, if the anxiety persists for more than a few weeks, affects your sleep, or disrupts daily life, it's important to seek therapy and consult a mental health psychology behind people switching to train or road travelDespite data confirming that air travel remains one of the safest modes of transport, travellers have been switching to train or road travel after the AI171 Das, who is supposed to travel to Bhubaneshwar in August, couldn't help but ask her husband if they could skip taking a flight this time. Many such examples, we are sure, are all around you too. And yet, it's not as if road or train accidents are unheard of. But fear, as we know, isn't always however, have an answer - perceived sense of control.'On a train, people often feel like they can do something in the event of an emergency - get off at the next station, move to a different coach, or call for help. In contrast, when you're airborne, there's very little you can do. That lack of control can be extremely unsettling,' says Sam.'For many, train travel is also familiar, often more affordable, and convenient for shorter trips. This combination of heightened emotional impact, a feeling of greater control, and practical benefits could be why some people are choosing trains over flights right now,' adds Dr times like these, prioritising one's peace of mind and sense of safety is what matters InTrending Reel
