JANUARY 20, 2026
- Federal troops and immigration enforcement in Minnesota — Minnesota is bracing for potential deployment of federal troops amid escalating protests over immigration raids and ICE operations, with local officials challenging surges in enforcement activity.
- Catholic archbishops denounce U.S. foreign policy — Top U.S. cardinals issued a joint statement criticizing recent policies as undermining America's moral role in global affairs.
- Nationwide "Free America Walkout" protests — Protests and walkouts are planned or occurring today (marking the one-year anniversary of Trump's second inauguration), organized by groups like Women's March, focusing on human rights and immigration concerns.
- Weather-related closures and disruptions — Universities and areas face closures due to dangerous weather, including snow in parts of the U.S.
- Trump links Greenland push to Nobel Peace Prize snub — President Trump tied his aggressive stance on acquiring Greenland to not receiving a Nobel Prize, stating he no longer needs to "think purely of peace," escalating tensions with Denmark and Europe.
- Ongoing discussions of Trump's first year and 2026 midterms — Political analysts discuss Trump's administration milestones and key Senate races ahead in the midterms.
- Pardons for January 6 participants highlighted — The White House continues to frame January 6-related pardons (issued in 2025) as correcting injustices.
- Immigration policy rulings — Courts block or allow aspects of ICE oversight and agent surges, with lawsuits from states like Minnesota.
- Trump's Greenland threats strain NATO and Europe — European leaders criticize U.S. threats to seize Greenland, prompting NATO discussions on Arctic security and questions about the alliance's future; Trump threatens tariffs on several European nations.
- U.S.-led "Board of Peace" proposal — Trump pushes nations to join a new U.S.-led board to manage conflicts like Gaza.
- Venezuela developments — Reports on U.S.-authorized actions and the capture of President Nicolas Maduro.
- Other global notes — Ongoing Ukraine conflict impacts (e.g., Russian strikes on Kyiv affecting power/water); Vietnam's party congress focusing on growth.
- Higher education policy shifts — Moves to downsize or break up the Education Department, with some programs/personnel shifting to Labor; debates over potential dismantling.
- Censorship and state laws — Record number of higher education censorship bills enacted in states last year.
- University rankings and access — U.S. universities slipping in global rankings while Chinese ones surge; remote learning options in areas like Minneapolis amid immigration fears.
- Digital education initiatives — New nationwide programs (e.g., in India, but similar trends discussed) to boost online access in rural areas.
- IMF raises global growth forecast — Global economy projected at 3.3% for 2026, buoyed by AI investment despite tariff concerns; inflation easing.
- Oil prices rise on China data — Better-than-expected Chinese GDP lifts demand optimism, amid tariff threats.
- Tariff impacts and trade tensions — Trump's threats of tariffs on Europe over Greenland and ongoing protectionism; economists expect some weakening in 2026 due to debt and geopolitics.
- World Economic Forum discussions — Ongoing in Davos, with focus on investments (e.g., major MoUs from regions like Maharashtra, India).
- AI and voice interfaces advancing — Trends toward talking to computers more naturally, with AI changing browsing and daily tech use.
- U.S.-Taiwan "democratic" high-tech supply chain — Taiwan positions itself to lead in semiconductors and AI partnerships with the U.S. amid tariffs.
- CES 2026 highlights lingering — Focus on physical AI, chips from Nvidia/AMD/Intel, and gadgets potentially succeeding smartphones.
- Broader AI risks and innovations — Discussions on AI's job impact, finance risks, and potential bubbles.
- Trump healthcare affordability framework — Upcoming announcement expected to address rising costs and subsidies.
- Policy changes from 2025 bill — Major shifts in Medicaid funding, vaccine advisory overhauls, and public health system impacts taking effect.
- Medical research updates — Reviews finding no autism/ADHD risk from pregnancy acetaminophen; statins benefiting type 2 diabetes patients.
- Emerging trends — Expansion of GLP-1 drugs, AI in wearables, and focus on chronic conditions like kidney disease.
- College football aftermath — Recent national championship (e.g., Indiana's win over Miami highlighted in recaps).
- Basketball power rankings — SEC men's basketball updates, with teams like Florida and Texas A&M leading.
- NFL coaching changes — Reports of hirings/firings (e.g., Dolphins, Bills).
- Ongoing events — College basketball games and preparations for events like the 2026 Winter Olympics venues.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Letter from a Birmingham Jail”: The Complete Text https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/19/pay-attention-to-the-words-of-dr-martin-luther-king-jr/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a pivotal leader in the Civil Rights Movement, remembered for his vision and courage.
- Dr. King’s "Letter from a Birmingham Jail" was written in response to criticisms by religious leaders, defending nonviolent direct action as essential to confronting racial injustice.
- The letter emphasizes the interconnectedness of communities and the moral responsibility to act against injustice, stating, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."
- Dr. King outlines the steps of a nonviolent campaign: fact collection, negotiation, self-purification, and direct action, and explains why such actions were necessary in Birmingham.
- He criticizes the white moderate for prioritizing order over justice and delaying civil rights progress by urging patience.
- Dr. King distinguishes between just and unjust laws, asserting the moral obligation to disobey unjust laws while accepting the consequences of such actions.
- He critiques the silence and inaction of the white church, which often failed to support the civil rights movement despite its moral and spiritual imperatives.
- Dr. King highlights the necessity of creating constructive tension to force dialogue and social change, rejecting the idea that time alone will solve racial injustice.
- He addresses accusations of extremism, reframing it as a positive force for justice and love, citing historical and religious figures as examples of "creative extremists."
- The letter concludes with a hopeful vision for racial equality and brotherhood, despite the challenges and disappointments faced during the struggle for civil rights.
The Context of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "Letter from a Birmingham Jail" https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/19/the-context-of-dr-martin-luther-king-jr-s-famous-letter-from-a-birmingham-jail/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Dr. King wrote the letter in response to Birmingham religious leaders criticizing his protests and urging patience.
- The desegregation campaign in Birmingham involved sit-ins, marches, and boycotts during the Easter shopping season to pressure local merchants.
- Campaign leaders, including King, decided to disobey a court injunction against the protests, leading to mass arrests.
- King was arrested on Good Friday, April 12, 1963, and wrote the letter while in solitary confinement.
- The Children’s Crusade, involving young demonstrators, faced violent repression, drawing national and international outrage.
- The campaign led to the Birmingham Truce Agreement, which included desegregation measures and the release of jailed protesters, but also sparked violent retaliation from segregationists.
- Following the agreement, bombings targeted King's associates and supporters, leading to federal intervention by President Kennedy.
- The tragic bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church killed four young girls, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
Trump Sends Deranged Letter to European Leaders https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/19/trump-sends-deranged-letter-to-european-leaders/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- The article discusses a controversial letter from Donald Trump to European leaders, where he threatens to invade Greenland, allegedly due to his frustration over not receiving a Nobel Peace Prize.
- The author compares Trump's apparent jealousy of previous Nobel Peace Prize winners, such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Barack Obama, with speculation that Trump may not even know Dr. King won the award.
- Readers express strong reactions to Trump’s behavior, describing it as irrational, bullying, and extortionate, and question when political action will be taken to address his actions.
- The blog post is part of Diane Ravitch’s larger platform, which discusses topics related to education, democracy, and political commentary.
Anne Applebaum on Trump's Deranged Letter to European Leaders https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/19/anne-applebaum-on-trumps-deranged-letter-to-european-leaders/ via @dianeravitch
### Key Points
- Anne Applebaum analyzes Trump's letter, criticizing its childish grammar, historical inaccuracies, and obsession with the Nobel Prize.
- Trump uses the Nobel Prize snub as justification for U.S. control of Greenland, raising concerns about a trade war or military occupation.
- Applebaum highlights Trump's erratic behavior and its impact on U.S. diplomacy, urging Congress to intervene to prevent damage to American interests.
Snopes: Claim by Vance and Noem that ICE Agent Fired in Self-Defense Rated "Fake" https://dianeravitch.net/2026/01/19/snopes-claim-by-vance-an-noem-that-ice-agent-fired-in-self-defense-rated/ via @dianeravitch
- SNOPES debunked a claim that an ICE agent acted in self-defense when he fatally shot Renee Nicole Good, revealing that the evidence was based on an AI-generated and fake image.
- Credible video and photo analyses showed that Good did not attempt to run over the ICE agent, as her car's wheels were turned away from him before the shooting.
- The ICE officer fired three shots, two hitting Good in the chest and one in the arm, none of which were deemed necessary.
- The Department of Justice decided not to investigate the killing, leading to the resignation of several Civil Rights Division investigators in protest.
- Historical context highlights that similar tactics of using deadly force have been previously employed by Border Patrol agents, raising concerns about accountability within ICE.
A Testament of Hope—MLK, Jr | Bill Ayers https://billayers.org/2026/01/19/a-tesament-of-hope-mlk-jr/
- Martin Luther King Jr. expresses his optimism despite facing struggles, discrimination, and adversity, emphasizing his faith in God and humanity’s potential to overcome challenges.
- He acknowledges progress made in achieving freedom for Black Americans but highlights the persistent inequality and systemic racism in America, especially in 1968.
- King argues that justice for Black people cannot be achieved through superficial changes, court decisions, or political speeches alone; it requires radical societal restructuring and acknowledgment of privilege by those in power.
MS: The Honest Case for School Choice PETER GREENE https://curmudgucation.substack.com/p/ms-the-honest-case-for-school-choice
### Key Points
- The article critiques Russ Latino's argument for school choice, rooted in the conservative belief that parents, not the government, are solely responsible for their children’s education.
- The author highlights the flaws in Latino's argument, noting that the system he envisions often gives control to private schools rather than empowering parents.
- Private schools can discriminate against students even if they have vouchers, unlike public services like SNAP benefits, which are universally accessible.
- The article draws parallels between school vouchers and health care policies, emphasizing how such systems abandon communal responsibility in favor of individualism.
- Mississippi legislators have repeatedly rejected voucher bills due to concerns about financial losses for rural schools and lack of private school options for those communities.
- Critics argue that the "self-sufficiency" touted by proponents of school choice is a delusion, as society benefits collectively from public education investments.
Courage When the Cost Is Known – Cloaking Inequity https://cloakinginequity.com/2026/01/19/courage-when-the-cost-is-known/
### Key Points
- Martin Luther King Jr.’s final speeches reflected a profound clarity and acceptance of the personal cost of his fight for justice, emphasizing the importance of doing what is right despite risks.
- King believed courage is not the absence of fear but the refusal to let fear dictate silence, even when consequences are real. He rejected softening or delaying justice for personal safety or convenience.
- True courage is revealed during moments of challenge and controversy, not comfort, and is proven through actions rather than intentions or beliefs.
- King warned against moral complacency, emphasizing that waiting or remaining neutral in the face of injustice often equates to complicity. Silence and inaction can reinforce harm and inequity.
- Cowardice often disguises itself as calmness, neutrality, or maturity, which can lead to moral failure and inaction becoming a part of one’s identity.
- King emphasized that progress does not happen by itself and that deliberate action is necessary to confront injustice. Courage must be exercised actively, even at great personal cost.
- The article draws parallels between King’s teachings and modern struggles for justice, highlighting the sacrifices made by peaceful protestors and the need for accountability in leadership.
glen brown: The Subversion of the Next Election https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/the-subversion-of-next-election.html
### Key Points
- The article critiques Donald Trump’s efforts to undermine democratic processes, including his suggestion to cancel elections and impose authoritarian control.
- It highlights historical examples of dictatorships using manipulated elections to maintain power, comparing them to potential scenarios in the U.S. under Trump.
- The Supreme Court’s rulings, such as Citizens United, are criticized for enabling corporate influence over elections and eroding democratic participation.
- The two-party system is portrayed as complicit in the decline of democracy, with both parties serving corporate and elite interests rather than the public.
- The article discusses the militarization of governance, highlighting increased defense budgets, border enforcement, and the erosion of civil liberties.
- The author warns of the potential for America to become a police state and emphasizes the need for mass resistance to counter authoritarianism.
glen brown: "Are we really losing our fundamental freedoms under Donald Trump?" https://teacherpoetmusicianglenbrown.blogspot.com/2026/01/are-we-really-losing-our-fundamental.html
### Key Points
- The Trump administration is accused of using government institutions to suppress dissent and punish critics, undermining First Amendment rights.
- Comparisons are drawn between the U.S. and authoritarian regimes like Russia, Hungary, and Singapore, emphasizing the incremental nature of tyranny.
- The growing influence of oligarchs in U.S. politics, facilitated by court decisions like Citizens United, is highlighted as a factor in the weakening of democratic structures.
- The Trump administration's actions, such as targeting journalists, intimidating activists, and consolidating power, are described as steps toward authoritarian governance.
- Historical patterns of oligarchies collapsing or transitioning into tyrannies are used to underline the urgency of addressing these issues.
Teacher Tom: Chaos Or Community?
https://teachertomsblog.blogspot.com/2026/01/chaos-or-community.html
### Key Points
- Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized questioning societal structures, addressing interconnected issues of racism, poverty, and war.
- MLK advocated for a "higher synthesis" between capitalism and communism, rooted in love and fairness.
- MLK's speech "Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?" remains relevant in addressing poverty and systemic inequalities.
- The article underscores the importance of addressing poverty to reform education effectively.
- Teacher Tom encourages readers to reflect on MLK's teachings and participate in a workshop on play-based education.
MLK and "the Guaranteed Income" "We are likely to find that the problems of housing and education, instead of preceding the elimination of poverty, will themselves be affected if poverty is first abolished." MLK PAUL THOMAS https://substack.com/home/post/p-185059915
### Key Points
- The article critiques the conservative misrepresentation of MLK’s legacy, especially during Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and their opposition to progressive policies like raising the minimum wage.
- MLK argued that the elimination of poverty should be direct and not through indirect measures like improving housing or education first. He advocated for a guaranteed income as a solution.
- MLK emphasized that a guaranteed income should be tied to the median income and adjusted dynamically with national income growth to prevent poverty from persisting.
- MLK framed the abolition of poverty as a moral and ethical imperative, aligning it with Christian values and the need to prioritize human dignity over greed in a capitalist democracy.
McMahon’s Troubling School Patriotism Fails to Address The Needs of Children - Nancy Bailey's Education Website https://nancyebailey.com/2026/01/19/mcmahons-troubling-school-patriotism-fails-to-address-the-needs-of-children/
### Key Points
- Education Secretary Linda McMahon is promoting patriotism and a religious civics curriculum called "History Rocks" amidst controversy over its approach and its connection to conservative groups.
- Critics argue that McMahon's focus on patriotism ignores the pressing issues faced by children, such as lack of access to healthcare, quality education, and basic necessities.
- The article highlights the growing wealth inequality in America, contrasting the immense wealth of billionaires with the struggles of average families, questioning the priorities of those in power.
- McMahon's push for state-run schools and vouchers is seen as favoring private and charter schools, potentially undermining public education and increasing inequality.
- The article questions the role of patriotism in education, referencing historical debates and emphasizing the importance of teaching students both the strengths and flaws of American history.
- The author criticizes McMahon's actions as failing to address the real needs of American children and calls for a focus on improving public schools to ensure equal opportunities for all.
Choosing Democracy: Honor King; Fight for Democracy https://choosingdemocracy.blogspot.com/2026/01/honor-king-fight-for-democracy.html
### Key Points
- The article reflects on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for racial justice and democracy in the United States, particularly in the face of recent efforts to undermine civil rights and voting rights.
- It highlights the historical and current challenges to civil rights, including the suppression of Black voters, rewriting of history, and systemic racism perpetuated by movements like MAGA.
- The author connects the fight for democracy in the U.S. to the civil rights movement, underscoring the importance of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the strategies employed by leaders like Dr. King and others.
- The article calls for honoring Dr. King's legacy by committing to collective action, supporting organizations like the Transformative Justice Coalition and Black Voters Matter Fund, and continuing the fight for justice, equity, and democracy.
- The author emphasizes that progress requires sustained effort, organizing, and resistance against injustice, inspired by the legacy of Dr. King and the civil rights movement.
Weekend Quotables How in Pope Leo’s name could the Bears blow the game in OT? MICHAEL KLONSKY https://klonsky.substack.com/p/weekend-quotables-ed0
### Key Points
- The Chicago Bears lost an overtime game against the Rams despite a surprising last-minute play, with commentary on the cost of attending games and the new Bears stadium.
- Former President Trump linked his desire to take over Greenland to grievances about not winning the Nobel Peace Prize, amidst ongoing trade tensions.
- Tensions arose between Israel and the U.S. over the establishment of an international oversight panel for Gaza, with sharp rebukes from Israeli officials and far-right figures.
- Illinois Democrats and notable figures are calling for the abolition of ICE after the controversial actions of its agents, including a tragic shooting incident.
- Bruce Springsteen criticized the Trump administration's immigration policies, likening them to "Gestapo tactics" and urging resistance.
- A far-right protest featured inflammatory rhetoric, including anti-immigrant statements and support for ICE, led by a January 6th rioter.
Schools Matter: We Will Rebuild – Defiant Protest Song of Hope, Democracy, and Resistance http://www.schoolsmatter.info/2026/01/we-will-rebuild-defiant-protest-song-of.html
[00:10](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XL8MbnPA690&t=2s&t=10.48) The video presents a powerful protest anthem that emphasizes resilience, hope, and the fight for democracy against oppression and fear.
- The speaker critiques the way power is shielded by fear and false bravado.}
- A declaration of strength and refusal to succumb to hate, emphasizing the importance of peaceful resistance.}
- The awakening of courage within the crowd, as they stand against cruelty and violence.}
- A commitment to not allow despair to dictate their future, reinforcing the message of unity and determination.}
[01:57](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XL8MbnPA690&t=2s&t=117.76) The video conveys a powerful message of hope, resilience, and collective action in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the importance of building a just future for the next generations and standing firm against oppression.
- The importance of law, love, and resistance in achieving victory.}
- A commitment to drawing a line against tyranny for the sake of future generations.}
- The call for unity and peaceful protests to bring about change.}
- A declaration of strength and refusal to succumb to darkness.}
- The vision of creating a moral force that guides towards a better future.}
How CCB Graduates’ Earnings Compare to AAs and BAs Education Research Report https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/
- A study analyzed the economic value of Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) degrees, revealing that CCB graduates earn $4,000 to $9,000 more annually than Associate’s degree holders but face an average earnings penalty of $2,000 compared to Bachelor’s degree holders. The penalties vary by field, with minimal or no penalties in Nursing, Healthcare, Business, and Criminal Justice.
- Gender bias influences young children’s math education, with children more likely to trust incorrect math information from male teachers over correct information from female teachers. This bias can shape how children learn and process numerical information.
- Mentoring programs for socially disadvantaged children in Germany improve educational outcomes, increasing the likelihood of entering higher secondary education by 11 percentage points, with long-term positive effects on educational trajectories.
- Recreational physical activity (RPA) during adolescence is associated with reduced breast cancer risk in young women. Studies show RPA influences breast tissue composition and stress biomarkers, with underrepresented groups like Black and Hispanic girls benefiting from increased physical activity.
- Linear number board games can significantly enhance early math skills in young children, with short sessions improving numeracy and foundational math abilities. Adaptable versions of these games can also benefit children with diverse learning needs.
- The updated consensus on the Female Athlete Triad (Triad) highlights the importance of addressing energy deficiencies, especially in adolescent athletes, and introduces new guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and recovery protocols.
- A new guide for youth sports coaches and parents provides accessible information on recognizing and managing concussions. It emphasizes the importance of early detection and removal to reduce recovery time.
TRUMP IN THE NEWS TODAY
Today, January 19, 2026, marks the one-year anniversary of President Trump’s return to the White House. The news cycle is dominated by a major diplomatic and economic crisis involving Greenland, as well as new developments in the Middle East and domestic legal battles.
1. The Greenland-Tariff Crisis
The most significant story today is the fallout from President Trump’s weekend threat to impose 10% tariffs on eight European allies (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland).
The Conflict: The tariffs—scheduled for February 1—are a pressure tactic to force a deal for the U.S. to acquire Greenland.
The "Nobel Snub": In a message to the Norwegian Prime Minister, Trump reportedly linked his aggressive stance to being passed over for the Nobel Peace Prize, stating he no longer feels obligated to "think purely of peace" and must prioritize U.S. interests.
Global Reaction: European leaders issued a joint statement warning of a "downward spiral" in relations. Global stock markets have dipped today, and gold prices have hit record highs as investors seek safe havens.
2. The "Board of Peace" for Gaza
The administration has invited several world leaders to join a new "Board of Peace" to oversee the reconstruction and governance of Gaza.
The Structure: The board reportedly requires a $1 billion contribution for a permanent seat.
Participants: Hungary and Vietnam have accepted invitations. However, the plan has met resistance from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who stated the board’s executive committee was not coordinated with Israel.
Russia: In a notable move, Trump has also invited Vladimir Putin to join the board, even as the conflict in Ukraine continues.
3. Domestic Unrest & Immigration
Domestically, the focus is on a major federal immigration operation in Minnesota.
Military Standby: The Pentagon has placed approximately 1,500 active-duty soldiers (from the Alaska-based 11th Airborne Division) on standby for potential deployment to Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Insurrection Act: There is speculation that the President may invoke the Insurrection Act to allow these troops to perform law enforcement duties alongside ICE agents, a move that has sparked intense protests and a lawsuit from the Minnesota Attorney General.
4. Legal Battles at the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is preparing for oral arguments in Trump v. Cook this Wednesday.
The Issue: This case centers on the President’s attempt to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook.
Implications: The ruling will determine the extent of presidential power over "independent" agencies like the Federal Reserve, especially as the DOJ continues a criminal investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
Today's Observance
While it is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the administration has faced criticism from figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom for removing the "free entry" status for National Parks on this holiday, replacing it with a free-entry day on the President's birthday.
