The Take

Zulkarnain Saer Khan, an investigative journalist from Al Jazeera’s unit, dives into the intense student protests shaking Bangladesh. He reveals how students are rallying against a controversial job quota system and demanding government accountability. The discussion shifts to the violent crackdown by authorities, leading to the shuttering of universities. Eyewitness accounts showcase the fierce clashes, highlighting a broader youth discontent with the political system. Zulkarnain also sheds light on the critical state of press freedom amidst this turmoil.

Stevie Glaberson, Director of Research & Advocacy at Georgetown Law Center, sheds light on the troubling practice of the U.S. government collecting DNA from migrant children, some as young as four. He discusses how this surveillance blurs civil and criminal lines, raising serious privacy concerns. The conversation delves into the ethical implications of using DNA to monitor vulnerable populations, the lack of legal protections for migrants, and calls for community engagement to combat invasive surveillance practices.

Rusty Foster, writer of the Today in Tabs newsletter, dives into the precarious state of media freedom in the US. He discusses CBS's recent decisions affecting major political figures and the implications for journalistic integrity. Foster highlights how the financial struggles and corporate mergers impact media narratives and public trust. The conversation also touches on the dangers of billionaire ownership in media and the risks it poses to independent journalism and democracy. Overall, it's a thought-provoking exploration of today's media landscape.

Hesam Musallet, the uncle of Sayfollah Musallet, shares a heart-wrenching account of his nephew's life and untimely death at the hands of Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank. He reflects on Sayf's kindness and dreams, offering a poignant contrast to the tragic circumstances of his death. The discussion raises crucial questions about U.S. citizenship and the pursuit of justice, emphasizing the stark disparities in accountability for American citizens versus non-citizens. The family’s journey highlights the urgent need for a thorough investigation amid a humanitarian crisis.

Adrián Acevedo Mansour, a Mexico City Urban Planner, dives into the city's gentrification crisis, highlighting the impact of foreign renters and digital nomads on local housing markets. He discusses the protests in La Condesa, revealing the emotional toll of displacement on residents. The transformation of neighborhoods and rising living costs underscore the failures of public policy. Mansour also critiques recent initiatives aimed at tenant protections and emphasizes the urgent need for affordable housing solutions, drawing lessons from other Latin American countries.

Manuel Cunha Jr., President of the Nisei Farmers League, advocates for agricultural workers in California. He discusses the severe impact of recent ICE raids, highlighting the fear and anxiety among migrant farmworkers. Manuel points out the paradox of essential labor and lack of legal protections, emphasizing their vital roles during the pandemic. He critiques proposed solutions like using Medicaid recipients as labor substitutes and shares insights on the Dignity Act, aimed at creating legal pathways for undocumented agricultural workers.

A ceasefire has been declared in southern Syria, raising hopes for peace amid ongoing conflicts. Tensions escalate as Israel intensifies military actions, including airstrikes in Lebanon and Syria. Meanwhile, students in Gaza face immense challenges trying to complete their exams amidst a devastating war, highlighting the harsh realities of education in crisis. This multifaceted discussion captures both the geopolitical landscape and the human impact of ongoing turmoil.

Johan Rockström, a climate expert from the Potsdam Institute, and Jeff Goodell, author of The Heat Will Kill You First, dive deep into the alarming rise of heatwaves globally. They discuss the tragic human toll and escalating wildlife crises sparked by climate change. With personal accounts from the blistering summer in Texas, they highlight the urgent need for a shift to renewable energy and collective action. This conversation emphasizes both the immediate threats posed by extreme heat and the hope for systemic change.

William Yang, a Senior Analyst at the International Crisis Group, delves into Taiwan's intense military drills simulating a potential Chinese invasion. He discusses the psychological impact on Taiwanese citizens living under constant military readiness and the integration of defense exercises into everyday settings. Yang highlights the lessons learned from urban warfare in Ukraine and emphasizes the urgency of bolstering Taiwan's defense capabilities amid rising tensions with China. The episode captures the complexity of public sentiment around military preparedness and national security.

Darryl Li, a Professor of Anthropology and Social Sciences at the University of Chicago, dives deep into the controversial subject of Canary Mission, a site that blacklists pro-Palestinian activists. He discusses the troubling use of this blacklist by the Trump administration to target academics for deportation. The conversation highlights the chilling effects on free speech in academic settings, linking activism to anti-Semitism and examining modern digital surveillance tactics. Li's insights reveal a disturbing trend of political repression against dissenting voices.