In 1966, the Gurindji people — who were mistreated and forced into labour at the Wave Hill cattle station — collectively striked for better conditions, equal pay, and land rights. Integral to their success was Frank Hardy, a communist author sympathetic to their cause. He not only publicised their struggles to the Australian public and rallied support from trade unions; he also respected their autonomy and culture when helping them legally reclaim their land. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
