CIVILIZATION AND CULTURE OF THE FIVE CIVILIZED TRIBES BEFORE COLONIZATION: BECAUSE BECKY BARNETTE BEANE ASK ME TO

 

CIVILIZATION AND CULTURE OF THE FIVE CIVILIZED TRIBES BEFORE COLONIZATION

BECAUSE BECKY BARNETTE BEANE ASK ME TO

The Five Civilized Tribes were the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole Indians who lived in the Southeastern United States before the arrival of Europeans. They were called "civilized" by Europeans because they had adopted some aspects of their culture, such as Christianity, literacy, and slavery. However, these tribes had a long and rich history of civilization and culture before colonization. They were descendants of the Mississippian culture, a mound building Native American urban culture that flourished in the South and Eastern United States from 800 to 1500 CE.

The Mississippian Culture

The Mississippian culture was one of the most advanced and influential Native American cultures in North America. It emerged around 800 CE and lasted until the arrival of Europeans in the 16th century. It covered a large area that included parts of present-day Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

The Mississippian culture was known for creating large and sophisticated towns and cities, some with thousands of inhabitants. They also built impressive earthworks, such as mounds, pyramids, plazas, and temples. These structures served as religious, political, and social centers for their communities. They also reflected their cosmology and worldview. The largest and most famous city was Cahokia, which had a population of about 40,000 people at its peak. It was located near present-day St. Louis, Missouri. It had more than 120 mounds, including the largest one in North America: Monks Mound. It was 100 feet high and covered 14 acres. It had a temple on top where the chief or the high priest lived.

The Mississippian culture also developed advanced agriculture and trade networks. They grew crops such as corn, beans, squash, tobacco, and sunflowers. They also hunted deer and fished in rivers and the Gulf of Mexico. They traded goods and services with other tribes and regions, such as copper, shells, pottery, salt, and slaves. They used canoes, horses, and trails to transport their products. They also used shell beads as a form of currency. They had a complex division of labor and social hierarchy. They had elites who controlled the resources and the labor of the commoners. They also had artisans who specialized in various crafts.

The Mississippian culture also had a rich and diverse cultural expression. They produced pottery, basketry, beadwork, featherwork, carving, painting, and weaving. They also performed dances and ceremonies for religious and social purposes. They had a complex and varied cosmology and spirituality. They believed in a supreme creator or great spirit who lived in the sky world above the earth. They also believed in other deities who controlled different aspects of nature such as the sun god or the thunder god. They also believed in spirits who inhabited animals or plants or natural phenomena such as rivers or mountains. They also believed in ancestors who lived in the underworld below the earth. They also had stories myths and legends that explained the origin and structure of the universe.

The Five Civilized Tribes

The Five Civilized Tribes inherited many aspects of the Mississippian culture and adapted them to their own environments and circumstances. They also developed their own distinct political economic social and religious systems.

The Cherokee

The Cherokee were one of the largest and most powerful tribes in the Southeast. They lived in present-day Georgia North Carolina Tennessee Alabama and Virginia. They spoke an Iroquoian language that was different from their neighbors who spoke Muskogean languages.

The Cherokee were organized into seven clans that traced their descent through their mothers (matrilineal). Each clan had its own name symbol animal and responsibilities. The clans were Bird Deer Wolf Blue Long Hair Wild Potato and Paint.

The Cherokee were also divided into three regions: Lower Middle and Upper (or Overhill). Each region had its own chief who was chosen by a council of elders from each clan. The chiefs met together to form a national council that decided on matters affecting all Cherokee people.

The Cherokee were farmers hunters and traders. They grew corn beans squash tobacco and sunflowers. They hunted deer bear turkey and other animals. They traded with other tribes and Europeans for goods such as guns cloth metal tools beads and horses.

The Cherokee had a rich cultural expression.

They produced pottery basketry beadwork featherwork carving painting and weaving. They also performed dances and ceremonies for religious and social purposes. They had a complex and varied cosmology and spirituality. They believed in a supreme creator or great spirit called Yowa who lived in the sky world above the earth. They also believed in other deities who controlled different aspects of nature such as the sun god or the thunder god. They also believed in spirits who inhabited animals or plants or natural phenomena such as rivers or mountains. They also believed in ancestors who lived in the underworld below the earth. They also had stories myths and legends that explained the origin and structure of the universe.

The Cherokee were one of the first tribes to adopt aspects of European culture. They learned to read and write English and some converted to Christianity. In 1821 Sequoyah a Cherokee silversmith invented a syllabary or a system of writing for the Cherokee language. He used 86 symbols to represent the sounds of the language. This enabled the Cherokee to create their own literature and newspaper. In 1828 the Cherokee Phoenix the first Native American newspaper began publication. It was printed in both English and Cherokee.

The Cherokee also established a strong central government with a constitution based on the U.S. constitution. They had a bicameral legislature an executive branch and a judicial branch. They also had their own laws courts schools and police.

The Choctaw

The Choctaw were one of the largest and most influential tribes in the Southeast. They lived in present-day Mississippi Alabama Louisiana and Florida. They spoke a Muskogean language that was related to their neighbors who spoke similar languages.

The Choctaw were organized into two moieties or divisions: Imoklasha (People of the East) and Inholitopa (People of the West). Each moiety had four clans that traced their descent through their mothers (matrilineal). The clans were Wind Bear Racoon and Wolf.

The Choctaw were also divided into three districts: Okla Hannali (Six Towns) Okla Falaya (Long People) and Okla Tannap (People Across). Each district had its own chief who was chosen by a council of elders from each clan. The chiefs met together to form a national council that decided on matters affecting all Choctaw people.

The Choctaw were farmers hunters and traders. They grew corn beans squash tobacco and sunflowers. They hunted deer bear turkey and other animals. They traded with other tribes and Europeans for goods such as guns cloth metal tools beads and horses.

The Choctaw had a rich cultural expression.

They produced pottery basketry beadwork featherwork carving painting and weaving. They also performed dances and ceremonies for religious and social purposes. They had a complex and varied cosmology and spirituality. They believed in a supreme creator or great spirit called Aba who created light and order out of chaos. They also believed in other deities who controlled different aspects of nature such as the sun god or the thunder god. They also believed in spirits who inhabited animals or plants or natural phenomena such as rivers or mountains. They also believed in ancestors who lived in the underworld below the earth. They also had stories myths and legends that explained the origin and structure of the universe.

The Choctaw were one of the first tribes to adopt aspects of European culture. They learned to read and write English and some converted to Christianity. They also established schools churches farms mills roads and towns.

The Chickasaw

The Chickasaw were one of the smallest but most fierce tribes in the Southeast. They lived in present-day Mississippi Tennessee Alabama and Kentucky. They spoke a Muskogean language that was closely related to their neighbors the Choctaw.

The Chickasaw were organized into four clans that traced their descent through their mothers (matrilineal). The clans were Panther Bird House and Deer.

The Chickasaw were also divided into two regions: Lower and Upper (or Chikasha Iksa). Each region had its own chief who was chosen by a council of elders from each clan. The chiefs met together to form a national council that decided on matters affecting all Chickasaw people.

The Chickasaw were farmers hunters and warriors. They grew corn beans squash tobacco and sunflowers. They hunted deer bear turkey and other animals. They also fought with other tribes and Europeans for land resources and honor.

The Chickasaw had a rich cultural expression.

They produced pottery basketry beadwork featherwork carving painting and weaving. They also performed dances and ceremonies for religious and social purposes. They had a complex and varied cosmology and spirituality. They believed in a supreme creator or great spirit called Ababinili who lived in the sky world above the earth. They also believed in other deities who controlled different aspects of nature such as the sun god or the thunder god. They also believed in spirits who inhabited animals or plants or natural phenomena such as rivers or mountains. They also believed in ancestors who lived in the underworld below the earth. 

The Creek

The Creek were a confederation of several tribes that lived in present-day Georgia Alabama Florida and South Carolina. They spoke different Muskogean languages that were related to each other.

The Creek were organized into two groups: the Upper Creek or Muscogee who lived in the Coosa and Tallapoosa river valleys and the Lower Creek or Hitchiti who lived in the Chattahoochee and Flint river valleys. Each group had several towns that were independent but shared a common culture and language. Each town had its own chief who was chosen by a council of elders from each clan. The chiefs met together to form a national council that decided on matters affecting all Creek people.

The Creek were farmers hunters and traders. They grew corn beans squash tobacco and sunflowers. They hunted deer bear turkey and other animals. They traded with other tribes and Europeans for goods such as guns cloth metal tools beads and horses.

The Creek had a rich cultural expression.

They produced pottery basketry beadwork featherwork carving paintingand weaving. They also performed dances and ceremonies for religious and social purposes. They had a complex and varied cosmology and spirituality. They believed in a supreme creator or great spirit called Esaugetuh Emissee who created everything from his sweat. They also believed in other deities who controlled different aspects of nature such as the sun god or the thunder god. They also believed in spirits who inhabited animals or plants or natural phenomena such as rivers or mountains. They also believed in ancestors who lived in the underworld below the earth. They also had stories mythsand legends that explained the origin and structure of the universe.

The Creek were one of the first tribes to adopt aspects of European culture. They learned to read and write English and some converted to Christianity. They also established schools churches farms mills roads and towns.

The Seminole

The Seminole were a tribe that emerged from the remnants of other tribes that fled from European colonization. They lived in present-day Florida Georgia Alabama and Oklahoma. They spoke a Muskogean language that was related to their neighbors the Creek.

The Seminole were organized into bands that were independent but shared a common culture and language. Each band had its own chief who was chosen by a council of elders from each clan. The chiefs met together to form a national council that decided on matters affecting all Seminole people.

The Seminole were farmers hunters and warriors. They grew corn beans squash tobacco and sunflowers. They hunted deer bear turkey and other animals. They also fought with other tribes and Europeans for land resources and freedom.

The Seminole had a rich cultural expression.

They produced pottery basketry beadwork featherwork carving painting and weaving. They also performed dances and ceremonies for religious and social purposes. They had a complex and varied cosmology and spirituality. They believed in a supreme creator or great spirit called Chepara who fell from the sky onto an island where she met an alligator who became her husband. She gave birth to twins one human and one alligator. The human son married an otter woman and had many children who became the Seminole people. They also believed in other deities who controlled different aspects of nature such as the sun god or the thunder god. They also believed in spirits who inhabited animals or plants or natural phenomena such as rivers or mountains. They also believed in ancestors who lived in the underworld below the earth. They also had stories myths and legends that explained the origin and structure of the universe.

The Seminole were one of the last tribes to resist European colonization. They welcomed runaway slaves and other refugees into their bands. They fought against the Spanish British and Americans for their sovereignty and rights. They refused to sign treaties or move from their lands..

Bing, 6/23/2023

- Britannica. (2021). Five Civilized Tribes. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/topic/Five-Civilized-Tribes

- Khan Academy. (n.d.). Native American societies before contact. Retrieved from https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/us-history/precontact-and-early-colonial-era/before-contact/a/pre-contact-americas-lesson-summary

- Wikipedia. (2021). Five Civilized Tribes. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Civilized_Tribes

- FamilySearch. (2021). Five Civilized Tribes. Retrieved from https://www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Five_Civilized_Tribes

- Ancient Origins. (2018). The Tragedies that Befell the Five Civilized Tribes that were Forced to the Trail of Tears. Retrieved from https://www.ancient-origins.net/history-important-events/trail-tears-0010725

- The American History. (n.d.). Five Civilized Tribes of Native America 5 Native American tribe. Retrieved from https://theamericanhistory.org/five-civilized-tribes-native-american.html

AMEN: BROTHER WALTERS RECOMMENDS ALL OKLAHOMA SCHOOLS REQUIRE A MINUTE OF PRAYER AND REFLECTION PRAISE BE

 

AMEN

BROTHER WALTERS RECOMMENDS ALL OKLAHOMA SCHOOLS REQUIRE A MINUTE OF PRAYER AND REFLECTION

PRAISE BE

In a shocking turn of events, the State Board of Education Superintendent Walters has recommended that every school in the state implement a moment of silence and post the Ten Commandments. Because apparently, in the year 2023, we still need to be reminded not to kill, steal, or commit adultery. 

But that's not even the most absurd part of this story. Oh no, dear reader. Apparently, one brave teacher dared to speak out against this proposed nonsense and was promptly assaulted and restrained by security guards when trying to enter the meeting. And you thought you had a tough day at work.

Let's take a moment of silence ourselves to reflect on the fact that this is the kind of world we live in. A world where a teacher can't even express their opinion without fear of physical harm. But hey, at least we'll have those Ten Commandments up on the wall to remind us to be good little boys and girls.

I mean, who needs critical thinking skills and open discussion when you can just blindly follow ancient religious texts, am I right? And don't even get me started on this moment of silence nonsense. What are we supposed to do during that time? Meditate? Pray? Contemplate the meaning of life? I don't know about you, but I've got enough going on in my head without adding more pointless thoughts to the mix.

But hey, if we're going to go down this road, why stop at just the Ten Commandments? Let's put up all kinds of inspirational quotes and sayings. "Hang in there, baby!" "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take!" "Live, laugh, love!" The possibilities are endless.

And while we're at it, let's just go ahead and ban all forms of dissenting opinions altogether. Who needs free speech when you can just force everyone to think and act the same way? It's not like diversity of thought and expression are important or anything.

In all seriousness though, this entire situation is beyond ridiculous. It's a sad reminder of how far we still have to go as a society when it comes to respecting individual rights and freedoms. So let's take a moment of silence for that instead.

Religious council makes suggestions for OK schools’ https://kfor.com/news/local/walters-recommends-oklahoma-schools-require-minute-of-prayer-and-reflection/ 

Minute of silence recommended for Oklahoma schools https://www.ocpathink.org/post/independent-journalism/minute-of-silence-recommended-for-oklahoma-schools 

State Superintendent Ryan Walters calls for 10 Commandments to be displayed https://www.kjrh.com/news/local-news/state-superintendent-ryan-walters-calls-for-10-commandments-to-be-displayed-in-each-class 

Could Oklahoma schools be required to hang Ten Commandments in classrooms? https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-schools-required-hang-ten-commandments-classrooms-ryan-walters/44307311 

ROTTEN EGGS: THE CULTURE WAR HIDING INSIDE THE HOUSE APPROPRIATIONS BILL

ROTTEN EGGS

THE CULTURE WAR HIDING INSIDE THE HOUSE APPROPRIATIONS BILL

Breaking news, folks! The House appropriations bills are hiding a culture war, and it's not pretty. It's like finding a rotten egg in your omelette. You didn't expect it, and it definitely doesn't smell good.

House Republicans are using the federal funding process to push their conservative agenda by sneaking in policy riders into bills that fund various federal agencies. These riders are like Trojan horses, hiding their true intentions until it's too late.

But what are these riders, you ask? Well, hold onto your hats because they're a doozy. They seek to undermine federal environmental and diversity policies by banning drag performances and Pride flags at federal facilities, prohibiting environmental justice initiatives, and restricting abortion access and transgender health care for military personnel. It's like they're trying to turn back the clock on progress.

Now, you might be thinking, "Surely these riders are unpopular and controversial." And you'd be right! They're about as popular as a root canal. The appropriations process is supposed to be a bipartisan compromise to keep the government running, not a tool for pushing a political agenda.

Lisa Gilbert, executive vice president of Public Citizen, a consumer advocacy nonprofit, is part of the Clean Budget Coalition, an alliance of more than 100 groups that oppose these riders. And let me tell you, they're not taking this lying down.

Let's take a closer look at some of these riders and their potential impacts. First up, we have one that cuts medical care. Because who needs access to healthcare anyway? Next, we have one that weakens energy efficiency standards. Because who needs clean air and water? Then there's one that keeps cigarettes high in nicotine. Because who needs healthy lungs? And let's not forget the one that blocks climate action. Because who needs a habitable planet? Last but not least, we have one that limits scientific research. Because who needs facts?

It's like House Republicans are playing a game of "how many terrible things can we do in one appropriations bill?" It's like they're trying to win a prize for being the worst.

In conclusion, these policy riders are like the rotten eggs in your omelette. They stink, they're unwelcome, and they ruin everything. Let's hope that the Clean Budget Coalition can put an end to this culture war hiding inside the House appropriations bills. Otherwise, we'll all be left holding our noses.

THE DEFT DIVE

House funding bills hide a culture war https://thehill.com/homenews/house/4061140-house-republicans-culture-war-riders-appropriations-bills/ 

- The article argues that House Republicans are using the federal funding process to advance their conservative agenda by inserting policy riders into the bills that fund various federal agencies.

- These riders seek to undermine federal environmental and diversity policies, such as banning drag performances and Pride flags at federal facilities, prohibiting environmental justice initiatives, and restricting abortion access and transgender health care for military personnel.

- The article claims that these riders are unpopular and controversial, and that they are a misuse of the appropriations process, which is supposed to be a bipartisan compromise to keep the government running.

- The article cites Lisa Gilbert, executive vice president of Public Citizen, a consumer advocacy nonprofit, who is part of the Clean Budget Coalition, an alliance of more than 100 groups that oppose these riders.

- The article gives five examples of these riders and their potential impacts, such as cutting medical care, weakening energy efficiency standards, keeping cigarettes high in nicotine, blocking climate action, and limiting scientific research.

Source: Conversation with Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) House funding bills hide a culture war - The Hill. https://thehill.com/homenews/house/4061140-house-republicans-culture-war-riders-appropriations-bills/.

(2) 5 things to know about the culture war hiding inside House appropriations bills. https://www.yahoo.com/news/5-things-know-culture-war-215151976.html.

(3) 5 things to know about the culture war hiding inside House ... - MSN. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/5-things-to-know-about-the-culture-war-hiding-inside-house-appropriations-bills/ar-AA1cT4XG.

DOING THE DEVIL'S WORK: SCHOOL CHOICE IS THE MANTRA OF THE RIGHT WING CONSPIRACY TO DESTROY PUBLIC EDUCATION

 DOING THE DEVIL'S WORK SCHOOL

SCHOOL CHOICE IS THE MANTRA OF THE RIGHT WING

CONSPIRACY TO DESTROY PUBLIC EDUCATION

Attention all students! It's time to take a break from studying and learn about the real lesson being taught about our schools: school choice propaganda! Yes, you heard that right. The MAGA and right-wing billionaires, foundations, and media organizations have teamed up to promote school choice and we're here to give you the ugly rundown.

First up on our list is Hillsdale College, a tiny Christian college that has launched a network of charter schools promoting "virtue" and a conservative curriculum. Who's funding this operation, you ask? None other than the Bradley Foundation, the Koch Foundation, and the DeVos Family Foundation. And who's singing their praises? Right-wing media personalities Matt Drudge, Mark Levin, and Hugh Hewitt. Because nothing says "virtue" like promoting segregation and indoctrination.

But wait, there's more! The billionaire Charles  Koch, owner of Koch Industries, have given over a hundred million dollars to right-wing causes, including groups that oppose public education and advocate for school choice. According to The New Yorker, these foundations give money to front groups that do the Kochs' bidding, rather than finding solutions to the problems facing society. Because who needs solutions when you can just throw money at propaganda?

And let's not forget about Facebook's secret blacklist of "dangerous" groups and people that are banned from its platform. The Intercept reports that Facebook has a double standard when it comes to enforcing its policies on hate speech, violence, and misinformation. Extremist right-wing groups get special treatment due to their association with mainstream conservative politics. Because nothing says "freedom of speech" like selectively censoring certain groups.

But enough about the serious stuff. Let's dive into some of the hilarious articles being syndicated by right-wing groups to promote school choice. Media Matters for America lists the corporations and right-wing funders backing the education reform movement, including groups that support school choice such as the American Federation for Children and the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Because nothing says "choice" like limiting options to only those approved by wealthy donors.

The New Yorker profiles the right-wing mothers fueling the school-board wars, especially a group called Moms for Liberty. They claim that teachers are indoctrinating students with dangerous ideologies such as critical race theory and gender fluidity. Because nothing says "liberty" like censorship and fear-mongering.

PR Watch exposes the major right-wing funders and corporate lobbyists behind National School Choice Week. The State Policy Network (SPN) and ALEC are just a few of the groups pushing for school choice legislation. Because nothing says "public education" like privatization and corporate interests.

And let's not forget about Betsy DeVos, the former secretary of education under President Trump, who spent decades advocating for vouchers, charter schools, and online learning while criticizing teachers unions and public school officials. The Washington Post reports that DeVos has ties to various right-wing groups that support school choice, such as the American Federation for Children and the Acton Institute. Because nothing says "education" like undermining public schools.

But perhaps the most entertaining article comes from The Guardian, which exposes the hidden agenda of Project Blitz, a coordinated effort by Christian right groups to push for legislation that would advance their religious agenda in public schools and other spheres of American life. Because nothing says "separation of church and state" like using public funds to promote religious ideology.

So there you have it, folks. The hilarious world of school choice propaganda brought to you by MAGA and right-wing billionaires, foundations, and media organizations. Remember, education is important, but so is critical thinking and questioning the motives behind those who seek to influence it. Stay woke, students!

THE DEFT DIVE

According to a report by Salon.com¹, one of the groups that is driving the right's nationwide war against public schools is **Hillsdale College**, a tiny Christian college that has launched a network of charter schools that follow a conservative curriculum and promote \"virtue\". The report claims that Hillsdale College has received funding and support from **right-wing foundations** such as the **Bradley Foundation**, the **Koch Foundation**, and the **DeVos Family Foundation**. The report also alleges that Hillsdale College has connections to **right-wing media** personalities such as **Rush Limbaugh**, **Mark Levin**, and **Hugh Hewitt**, who have praised its charter schools and criticized public education.

Another source that may be of interest is a 2010 article by The New Yorker², which exposes the covert operations of the billionaire brothers **Charles and David Koch**, who own Koch Industries, a conglomerate that has interests in oil, paper, lumber, and other products. The article reveals that the Kochs have quietly given more than a hundred million dollars to **right-wing causes**, including groups that oppose public education and advocate for school choice. The article cites a 2004 report by the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy, a watchdog group, which described the Kochs' foundations as being self-serving, concluding, “These foundations give money to front groups that do the Kochs’ bidding, rather than trying to find solutions to the problems facing society.” The article also details how the Kochs have funded think tanks, advocacy groups, media outlets, and politicians that advance their libertarian agenda and oppose the Obama Administration.

A third source that may be relevant is a 2021 article by The Intercept³, which reveals Facebook's secret blacklist of \"dangerous\" groups and people that are banned from its platform. The article claims that Facebook has a double standard when it comes to enforcing its policies on hate speech, violence, and misinformation, and that it gives extremist right-wing groups in the U.S. special treatment due to their association with mainstream conservative politics. The article cites leaked documents and interviews with former Facebook employees, who allege that Facebook has ignored or downplayed reports of right-wing groups that spread anti-public school propaganda praising school choice, among other harmful content.

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) How this tiny Christian college is driving the right’s nationwide war .... https://www.salon.com/2022/03/15/how-this-tiny-christian-college-is-driving-the-rights-nationwide-against-public-schools/.

(2) The Koch Brothers’ Covert Ops | The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2010/08/30/covert-operations.

(3) Facebook’s Secret Blacklist of “Dangerous” Groups and People. https://theintercept.com/2021/10/12/facebook-secret-blacklist-dangerous/.

Some articles that may have been syndicated by right-wing groups to promote school choice. Here are some examples:

- An article by Media Matters for America¹ that lists the corporations and right-wing funders backing the education reform movement, including groups that support school choice such as the **American Federation for Children**, the **American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)**, the **Foundation for Excellence in Education**, and the **Institute for Justice**. The article also names some of the media outlets that amplify their message, such as **The Daily Caller**, **Education Next**, and **Watchdog.org**.

- An article by The New Yorker² that profiles the right-wing mothers fueling the school-board wars, especially a group called **Moms for Liberty**, which claims that teachers are indoctrinating students with dangerous ideologies such as critical race theory and gender fluidity. The article traces the origins and funding of Moms for Liberty, which is linked to **Hillsdale College**, a conservative Christian institution that runs a network of charter schools. The article also exposes the influence of other right-wing groups that support school choice, such as the **Heritage Foundation**, the **Heartland Institute**, and the **Thomas More Law Center**.

- An article by PR Watch³ that exposes the major right-wing funders and corporate lobbyists behind National School Choice Week, an annual event that promotes various forms of school choice, such as charter schools, vouchers, and tax credits. The article reveals that National School Choice Week is sponsored by organizations such as the **State Policy Network (SPN)**, a network of conservative think tanks that push for school choice legislation; the **American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)**, a corporate-backed group that drafts model bills for state legislators; and the **Gleason Family Foundation**, a private foundation that supports school choice initiatives.

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) Here Are The Corporations And Right-Wing Funders Backing The Education .... https://www.mediamatters.org/daily-caller/here-are-corporations-and-right-wing-funders-backing-education-reform-movement.

(2) The Right-Wing Mothers Fuelling the School-Board Wars. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2022/11/07/the-right-wing-mothers-fuelling-the-school-board-wars.

(3) "National School Choice Week" Fueled by Major Right-Wing Funders and .... https://prwatch.org/news/2016/01/13024/national-school-choice-week-fueled-major-right-wing-funders-and-corporate-lobby.

MORE examples:

• - An article by The Washington Post that examines the role of **Betsy DeVos**, the former secretary of education under President Trump, in promoting school choice and undermining public education. The article reports that DeVos, a billionaire heiress and a major donor to conservative causes, has spent decades advocating for vouchers, charter schools, and online learning, while criticizing teachers unions and public school officials. The article also reveals that DeVos has ties to various right-wing groups that support school choice, such as the **American Federation for Children**, the **Mackinac Center for Public Policy**, and the **Acton Institute**.
• - An article by The Atlantic that explores the history and ideology of **Hillsdale College**, a small Christian college in Michigan that has become a hub of conservative education reform. The article describes how Hillsdale College has launched a network of charter schools across the country that follow a classical curriculum based on Western civilization and Judeo-Christian values. The article also traces the influence of Hillsdale College's president, **Larry Arnn**, who is a close ally of **Charles Koch** and a vocal critic of public education and progressive policies.
• - An article by The Guardian that exposes the hidden agenda of **Project Blitz**, a coordinated effort by Christian right groups to push for legislation that would advance their religious agenda in public schools and other spheres of American life. The article reveals that Project Blitz is backed by organizations such as the **Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation**, the **National Legal Foundation**, and the **WallBuilders ProFamily Legislative Network**, which are also involved in promoting school choice and undermining public education. The article also shows how Project Blitz has influenced state lawmakers to introduce bills that would allow public funds to be used for private religious schools, among other measures.

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) Here Are The Corporations And Right-Wing Funders Backing The Education .... https://www.mediamatters.org/daily-caller/here-are-corporations-and-right-wing-funders-backing-education-reform-movement.

(2) The Right-Wing Mothers Fuelling the School-Board Wars. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2022/11/07/the-right-wing-mothers-fuelling-the-school-board-wars.

(3) "National School Choice Week" Fueled by Major Right-Wing Funders and .... https://prwatch.org/news/2016/01/13024/national-school-choice-week-fueled-major-right-wing-funders-and-corporate-lobby.

MORE examples:

• - An article by Right Wing Watch¹ that analyzes the dishonest and harmful right-wing attack on American school boards, which has been fueled by groups such as the **Heritage Foundation**, the **Heartland Institute**, and the **Family Research Council**. The article argues that these groups have manufactured fears of critical race theory and other progressive ideas, and have used media outlets such as **Fox News**, **The Daily Wire**, and **The Federalist** to spread their message and mobilize activists and voters.
• - An article by Brookings² that offers some recommendations on how to counter right-wing armed groups in the United States, which have also been involved in protesting against public education and promoting school choice. The article suggests that these groups have been coordinated by networks such as the **State Policy Network (SPN)**, the **American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)**, and the **Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation**, which have provided them with funding, training, and model legislation.
• - An article by The American Prospect³ that exposes the infiltration of schools by PragerU, a right-wing nonprofit that produces viral videos on topics such as "The Left Ruins Everything," "Why You Should Love Fossil Fuel," and "How to Steal an Election." The article reveals that PragerU has launched a program specifically designed for teachers last fall, called PragerU Educators and Parents (PREP), which offers them free access to its videos and study guides. The article also reports that PragerU's content has been in public schools for years, often without proper disclosure or oversight.

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) The Dishonest and Harmful Right-Wing Attack on American School Boards. https://www.rightwingwatch.org/post/the-dishonest-and-harmful-right-wing-attack-on-american-school-boards/.

(2) How to counter right-wing armed groups in the United States - Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/blog/order-from-chaos/2021/01/21/how-to-counter-right-wing-armed-groups-in-the-united-states/.

(3) The Right Curriculum? How PragerU Infiltrates Schools.. https://prospect.org/education/right-curriculum-how-prageru-infiltrates-schools/.

BANZAI: AI & CHATGPT IN JAPANESE CLASSROOMS

BANZAI

AI & CHATGPT IN JAPANESE  CLASSROOMS  

The Japanese Ministry of Education has announced that they will allow limited use of generative AI in schools across the country. This news has caused quite a stir in the education community, with some calling it a breakthrough and others calling it a disaster waiting to happen.

The new guidelines state that generative AI can be used to help students formulate ideas, facilitate classroom discussions, and stimulate creativity. However, it cannot be used in exams or artistic activities, and students must be aware of its limitations and biases.

This means that if you're a student in Japan, you might soon find yourself chatting with a robot instead of your classmates. Imagine trying to talk about the latest episode of your favorite anime, only to be interrupted by a robot asking you to define the word "otaku."

But don't worry, the Japanese government has assured us that they have taken all necessary precautions to ensure that the AI is safe and reliable. They've even tested it on their own bureaucrats, who reportedly found the experience "enlightening."

Of course, not everyone is convinced. Italy has already banned ChatGPT, citing privacy and ethical concerns. And let's not forget about China, which is investing heavily in AI and generative technologies. Some experts believe that China could gain an upper hand over the US in the AI race, which is probably why the US government is currently trying to ban TikTok.

But back to Japan. The new guidelines are set to be implemented by April 2024, which gives schools plenty of time to prepare for the robot invasion. We can only imagine what the classrooms of the future will look like. Will there be rows of robots sitting at desks? Will students be required to bring their own charging cables? Will there be a robot prom?

One thing's for sure, the future is looking bright for ChatGPT. The app has already expanded to countries like Canada, India, France, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Nigeria, South Korea, and the UK. It seems like everyone wants to chat with a robot these days.

But what about the potential downsides? Some experts have raised concerns about accuracy, reliability, bias, ethical implications, and impact on student learning outcomes. Others worry that robots will take over our jobs and leave us all unemployed.

But let's not get too serious here. This is a funny article after all. So let's focus on the positives. Chatting with a robot could be a great way to make friends if you're socially awkward. It could also be a great way to cheat on your exams if you're not so academically inclined.

And who knows? Maybe one day we'll all have our own personal robots to do our bidding. We'll never have to do our own laundry or wash our own dishes again. We'll just sit back and let the robots do all the work.

In conclusion, the Japanese Ministry of Education's decision to allow limited use of generative AI in schools is both exciting and terrifying. Only time will tell whether this decision will lead to a brighter future or a robot apocalypse. But for now, let's just sit back and enjoy the ride. Who knows? Maybe we'll learn something from our new robot overlords.

THE DEFT DIVE

Limited generative AI usage to be allowed in Japanese schools https://cointelegraph.com/news/limited-generative-ai-usage-allowed-in-japanese-schools 

According to one of the news articles¹, the Japanese Ministry of Education plans to allow limited use of generative AI, like ChatGPT, in elementary, junior high and high schools across the country. The draft guidelines say that generative AI can be used to help students formulate ideas, facilitate classroom discussions and stimulate creativity. However, it also says that generative AI should not be used in exams, artistic activities or without students' awareness of its limitations and biases. The ministry aims to implement the new guidelines by April 2024.

This is an example of how one country is planning to use AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education, with some restrictions and regulations to ensure its appropriate and ethical use. Other countries may have different plans and policies regarding the use of AI and ChatGPT in education, depending on their contexts and needs.

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) Japanese schools to be allowed limited use of generative AI. https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20230622/p2g/00m/0na/042000c.

(2) 32% of university students in Japan using ChatGPT: survey. https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20230622/p2g/00m/0na/034000c.

(3) Japan Allows Limited Use Of Generative Ai In Schools. https://menafn.com/1106488052/Japan-Allows-Limited-Use-Of-Generative-Ai-In-Schools.

(4) Education ministry guidelines to allow limited use of generative AI in .... https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2023/06/22/national/school-ai-use/.

(5) ChatGPT is going to change education, not destroy it. https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/04/06/1071059/chatgpt-change-not-destroy-education-openai/.

(6) Limited generative AI usage to be allowed in Japanese schools. https://cointelegraph.com/news/limited-generative-ai-usage-allowed-in-japanese-schools.

AI and ChatGPT in countries other than the USA:

• - **Italy** has banned ChatGPT, citing privacy and ethical concerns. It is the first Western country to do so².
• - **Canada**, **India**, **France**, **Germany**, **Ireland**, **New Zealand**, **Nigeria**, **South Korea** and the **UK** are among the countries where OpenAI has expanded its ChatGPT app, which lets users chat with the chatbot on their phones¹.
• - **China** is investing heavily in AI and generative technologies, and its internet giants Baidu, Alibaba and Kunlun have been developing their own versions of ChatGPT. Some experts believe that China could gain an upper hand over the US in the AI race⁴.

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) ChatGPT and AI automation: 300 million jobs could be affected globally .... https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/29/tech/chatgpt-ai-automation-jobs-impact-intl-hnk/index.html.

(2) OpenAI's ChatGPT iOS app now available in Canada, India ... - TechCrunch. https://techcrunch.com/2023/05/25/openai-chatgpt-ios-app-india-download/.

(3) Can AI give China the upper hand to surpass the US after ChatGPT .... https://www.channelnewsasia.com/business/ai-give-china-upper-hand-surpass-us-become-worlds-top-economy-chatgpt-3563156.

(4) ChatGPT vs. Bing Chat AI: Which Is Better? - How-To Geek. https://www.howtogeek.com/882163/chatgpt-vs-bing-chat-ai/.

(5) Italy has banned ChatGPT. Here's what other countries are doing - CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2023/04/04/italy-has-banned-chatgpt-heres-what-other-countries-are-doing.html.

AI and ChatGPT are emerging technologies that have the potential to transform K-12 education in various ways. According to some sources, ChatGPT can provide personalized learning experiences, enhance lesson planning and instruction, engage students and foster digital literacy and data ethics¹²³. However, there are also some challenges and unknowns associated with using ChatGPT in education, such as its accuracy, reliability, bias, ethical implications and impact on student learning outcomes¹⁴. Therefore, educators and students need to be aware of the pros and cons of ChatGPT and use it responsibly and critically.

Different countries may have different approaches and policies regarding the use of AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education. For example, some countries may have more advanced infrastructure and resources to support the integration of AI and ChatGPT in their curricula, while others may face more barriers or resistance. Some countries may also have more stringent regulations or guidelines on how AI and ChatGPT can be used in educational settings, while others may have more flexibility or autonomy. Additionally, some countries may have more research and innovation on AI and ChatGPT in education, while others may lag behind or follow the trends set by others.

To get a more comprehensive picture of how other countries are planning to use AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education, you may want to explore the following questions:

• - What are the goals and objectives of using AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education in different countries?
• - What are the benefits and challenges of using AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education in different countries?
• - What are the best practices and lessons learned from using AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education in different countries?
• - What are the current trends and future directions of using AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education in different countries?

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) ChatGPT in Education: The Pros, Cons and Unknowns of Generative AI. https://edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2023/03/chatgpt-in-education-generative-ai-perfcon.

(2) Teachers and Students Embrace ChatGPT for Education. https://www.waltonfamilyfoundation.org/learning/teachers-and-students-embrace-chatgpt-for-education.

(3) Unlocking the Potential of K-12 Students with ChatGPT: How AI Could .... https://shakeuplearning.com/blog/unlocking-the-potential-of-k-12-students-with-chatgpt-how-ai-could-transform-education-suls0184/.

(4) We Asked ChatGPT: Should Schools Ban You? - Education Week. https://www.edweek.org/technology/we-asked-chatgpt-should-schools-ban-you/2023/04.

(5) Students and teachers: Tell The Post how you use ChatGPT and other AI tools. https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2023/05/04/students-teachers-chatgpt-ai-submissions/.

The goals and objectives of using AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education in different countries may vary depending on their specific contexts and needs, but some common themes can be identified from the literature. Some of the possible goals and objectives are:

• - To **address some of the biggest challenges** in education today, such as access, quality, equity, inclusion and relevance¹.
• - To **innovate teaching and learning practices**, such as personalized learning, adaptive assessment, collaborative learning, project-based learning and inquiry-based learning¹²³⁴.
• - To **accelerate progress towards SDG 4**, which is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all¹.
• - To **prepare students for an AI-driven future**, by developing their core competencies, such as digital literacy, data ethics, critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving¹²³⁵.
• - To **enhance human capacities and protect human rights**, by ensuring that AI and ChatGPT are used in a human-centered, ethical and responsible way¹⁵.

These are some of the possible goals and objectives of using AI and ChatGPT in K-12 education in different countries. However, they are not exhaustive or definitive, and they may change over time as AI and ChatGPT technologies evolve and new challenges and opportunities emerge.

Bing, 6/23/2023

(1) Artificial intelligence in education | UNESCO. https://www.unesco.org/en/digital-education/artificial-intelligence.

(2) AI technologies for education: Recent research & future directions. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666920X21000199.

(3) How AI Can Improve K-12 Education in the United States. https://www2.datainnovation.org/2022-ai-education.pdf.

(4) ChatGPT For Students: AI Chatbots Are Revolutionizing Education. https://elearningindustry.com/chatgpt-for-students-how-ai-chatbots-are-revolutionizing-education.

(5) Unlocking the Power of ChatGPT: A Framework for Applying Generative AI .... https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370156204_Unlocking_the_Power_of_ChatGPT_A_Framework_for_Applying_Generative_AI_in_Education.