Culture Wars Through Gender Identity + Chokehold Tragedy in NYC Subway + Protests Target Santos During Work Hours + More
Culture Wars Through Gender Identity + Chokehold Tragedy in NYC Subway + Protests Target Santos During Work Hours + More
On this edition of the Weekly Roundup of Protest Events - May 9, 2023
Brought to you by discursus.io, social data for journalists, researchers and analysts.
Friends,
It feels like it's been ages since my last Weekly Review post. But now, I'm excited to be back, picking up right where I left off and sharing data-driven insights into last week's protest movements in North America.
I'm thrilled to reconnect with all of you and, as always, I'd love to hear your comments, suggestions, or any thoughts you have to share ✌️
Olivier
Visit our interactive dashboard of weekly protests for more in-depth data.
🏳️⚧️ Culture Wars Through Gender Identity
Context:
There have been numerous rifts in the United States, but one stands out as central to what has occasionally been dubbed their culture war.
The contentious issue of gender identity has deeply divided politicians, the media, activists, and the general public. On one side, there's a push to liberate individuals from the constraints of binary gender classification. On the other hand, there's a drive to maintain traditional norms, values, and customs.
Protests:
Just in the past 28 days, the discursus platform captured 25 distinct protest events relating to gender identity.
In Florida, the cultural wars are deeply entrenched, as exemplified by Governor DeSantis' numerous legislations, including the expansion of the "Don't Say Gay" bill that restricts discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms. As a response, student groups, drag queens, and activist organizations like Dream Defenders have taken to the streets to protest against these laws.
In Texas, tension is rising around drag show brunches, as they have become battlegrounds for confrontations between opposing factions. Meanwhile, legislation aiming to ban gender-affirming healthcare for trans youth is being considered.
In Montana, protests have erupted in response to legislation seeking to restrict drag performances. Transgender representative Zooey Zephyr has been a vocal opponent of the proposed legislation. However, following escalating tensions between Zephyr and the conservative caucus, her right to speak was censored, leading to further protests within the Capitol.
Elsewhere
🚉 Chokehold Tragedy in NYC Subway
New Yorkers were shocked by the death of a subway passenger after being restrained by a chokehold.
The drama occurred when ex US Marine intervened after Jordan Neely started harassing clients.
This drew criticisms, such as the ones from American civil rights and social justice activist Al Sharpton: "Here you are 60 years later being choked on subways".
Tension then escalated when protesters jumped on subway tracks and eventually clashed with police forces.
🥸 Protests Target Santos During Work Hours
Congress representative, George Santos, who admitted to lying about his work, education and family history, held private meetings with his constituents this week.
Protesters welcomed him, denouncing what they perceive as a deficit of representation in Congress.
"He can't represent us," resident Kim Keiserman said. "He doesn't represent us. It's a disgrace."
From ABC7
Santos recognizes that he is reaping the consequences of his actions, and that he will have to face his constituents again in 2 years.
🏛️ Aftermaths of past protests
Canadian preacher Artur Pawlowski found “guilty of mischief for his role in protests against COVID-19 public health measures” - http://www.castanet.net/edition/news-story-424651-4-.htm
Former officer found guilty of aiding and abetting in the George Floyd arrest and killing.
One year after the leaked draft Supreme Court opinion on Roe v. Wade, debates are still held as to whether protesting in front of judge’s homes in legal.