4.1.25 Wisconsin’s state supreme court race, South Korea’s adoption investigation, and a new alcohol-free cafe
Apr 1, 2025
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Hunter Baker, a World Opinions contributor, examines the legacy of pro-life champion Henry Hyde. He discusses the implications of Wisconsin's Supreme Court race on abortion rights, shedding light on the critical balance of the court. The conversation also touches on South Korea's troubled adoption history, revealing systemic rights issues faced by adoptees. Additionally, Baker highlights a rising trend in alcohol-free culture, showcasing a unique cafe in San Francisco that promotes healthier living choices amidst a cultural shift towards sobriety.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court race is crucial for abortion rights, pitting a liberal candidate against a conservative who supports restrictive laws.
An investigation into South Korea's adoption system reveals significant human rights violations affecting thousands of adopted children and their families.
Deep dives
Wisconsin Supreme Court Elections and Abortion Rights
Voters in Wisconsin are participating in a pivotal election to fill a vacancy on the state Supreme Court, which is expected to influence the direction of abortion rights in the state. The main candidates are Susan Crawford, a liberal who champions women's rights to abortion, and Brad Schimel, a conservative who emphasizes the importance of the law being determined by the people rather than judges. This election comes at a crucial moment as Crawford's victory could potentially lead to the establishment of a constitutional right to abortion, following a lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood. On the other hand, Schimel is associated with the enforcement of an 1849 law banning abortion, which could further restrict women's healthcare decisions if he wins the seat.
South Korea's Foreign Adoption Program Controversy
A recent report from South Korea's Truth and Reconciliation Commission has revealed serious violations of children's rights within the country's foreign adoption program. The commission uncovered unethical practices, including fraudulent orphan registrations and insufficient vetting of adoptive parents, impacting the lives of thousands of children. This investigation highlights the complex history of intercountry adoptions from Korea, which skyrocketed in the years following the Korean War, driven by a confluence of factors including cultural stigma and the need for financial support for orphaned children. As many as 140,000 children were adopted from Korea, but the current findings suggest significant exploitation and trauma experienced by both the children and their biological families.
The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Social Drinking
The surge in non-alcoholic drinking alternatives reflects a growing trend among individuals choosing to reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption for health and wellness reasons. Entrepreneurs, like Joshua James, have opened cafes catering to the sober-curious movement, offering a variety of high-quality non-alcoholic beverages, including craft beers and mixed drinks with alternative ingredients. This market has grown significantly, with sales of non-alcoholic drinks reportedly nearing $1 billion, indicating a shifting consumer preference towards healthier options. The emergence of such establishments not only provides mindful alternatives for social drinking but also prompts conversations about the implications of alcohol consumption on health.
