humanity
Humanity topics include pieces on the real lives of politicians, legislators, activists, women in politics and the everyday voter.
DJ Fat Tony Reveals What Happened During ‘Awkward’ Dance at Brooklyn Beckham’s Wedding. AI-Generated.
Brooklyn Beckham’s wedding was one of the most talked-about events of the year, bringing together celebrities, friends, and family from across the globe. Amid the glitz, glamour, and red-carpet moments, one particular moment caught everyone’s attention: a dance described as ‘awkward’ by guests. Now, DJ Fat Tony, who was spinning tracks during the event, has opened up about what really happened.
By Aarif Lashari10 days ago in The Swamp
Social Media Firms Have Come to Ban 'Kicking' and 'Psychological War on Society’: Russia Plunges Ukraine into Darkness. AI-Generated.
In a chilling escalation of the ongoing conflict, Russia has reportedly launched cyber and physical attacks against Ukraine that have plunged large areas into darkness, targeting the nation’s critical infrastructure. At the same time, social media platforms are facing scrutiny over their role in moderating content related to the war, with authorities globally pushing tech companies to prevent misinformation, psychological manipulation, and content that could exacerbate societal harm.
By Aarif Lashari10 days ago in The Swamp
Social Media Firms Have Come to Ban 'Kicking and Screaming', Says Australia eSafety Boss. AI-Generated.
Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has said that social media companies are now implementing stricter content moderation “kicking and screaming”, highlighting growing pressure on tech platforms to combat harmful online content. The remarks underline the increasing responsibility social media firms face in protecting users, regulating abusive content, and responding to government mandates.
By Aarif Lashari11 days ago in The Swamp
AI-Induced Cultural Stagnation Is No Longer Speculation — It’s Already Happening. AI-Generated.
For years, concerns about artificial intelligence harming creativity were dismissed as hypothetical or alarmist. AI, we were told, would be a tool — not a replacement — enhancing human imagination rather than flattening it. But today, that optimism is fading. AI-induced cultural stagnation is no longer a theory. It is already unfolding in real time, reshaping art, writing, music, film, and even public discourse in subtle but deeply consequential ways.
By Muhammad Hassan11 days ago in The Swamp
US, Ukraine and Russia Delegations Head to Abu Dhabi for First Trilateral Talks. AI-Generated.
In a move that could shape the trajectory of the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe, delegations from the United States, Ukraine, and Russia are set to meet in Abu Dhabi for their first trilateral discussions. The historic talks, scheduled to take place at the UAE capital, aim to open channels for dialogue after months of heightened tensions and military escalation.
By Aarif Lashari11 days ago in The Swamp
Former Muckamore Patient Subjected to Abuse in New Facility, Committee Told. AI-Generated.
A vulnerable patient who had been resettled from the now‑infamous Muckamore Abbey Hospital was subjected to ill‑treatment at a different care facility in recent months, campaigners told Northern Ireland’s Health Committee this week — highlighting ongoing failures in the protection of adults with disabilities. �
By Ayesha Lashari11 days ago in The Swamp
Teens Among Missing After Landslide at New Zealand Campsite. AI-Generated.
A sudden landslide at a popular campsite in New Zealand has left authorities scrambling to account for several missing individuals, including teenagers. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has shocked the local community and drawn attention to the dangers posed by natural disasters in mountainous and coastal areas. Rescue teams are working under challenging conditions, and the search continues as families anxiously await news of their loved ones.
By Aarif Lashari11 days ago in The Swamp
Guns in homeless housing
In the past several months, I have seen three guns in the apartments of the building I live in, Fusion Studios, which is permanent supportive housing for people experiencing homelessness. This sort of alarmed me because many people who live here suffer from mental illness or addiction. But the truth is, because residents here have signed a lease and the building receives federal funding, they are allowed to own guns.
By David Heitz11 days ago in The Swamp
One in Four Children in England Start School Without Being Toilet Trained, Say Teachers. AI-Generated.
A growing number of children in England are starting primary school without being fully toilet trained, according to teachers and early years experts. Recent reports indicate that approximately one in four children enters school without mastering basic toileting skills, raising concerns among educators about readiness for formal education and the support systems available for families. Teachers say this trend affects not only classroom management but also children’s social development and self-confidence, sparking a wider discussion about parenting, early education, and societal pressures on families. What the Teachers Are Reporting Educators across England have reported seeing children struggle with toileting when they begin Reception class, the first year of primary school for children aged four to five. Some common challenges include: Frequent accidents in the classroom Difficulty recognizing bodily signals or asking for help Emotional distress and embarrassment among children While starting school without being toilet trained is not inherently harmful, teachers argue that it can create avoidable stress for children and staff, particularly in large classrooms with limited support staff. One headteacher in London commented: "We want every child to feel confident and secure in school. When children aren’t toilet trained, it can affect their self-esteem and the smooth running of the class." Why This Issue Is Becoming More Common Experts suggest several factors contributing to the increase in children starting school untrained: Delayed Early Childhood Routines: Modern parenting patterns, including later bedtimes and less structured daytime routines, may affect the pace at which children learn toileting habits. Parental Confidence and Guidance: Some parents report feeling unsure about the right time to start toilet training, leading to delays. Early years specialists note that consistent guidance and encouragement at home are crucial. Socioeconomic Pressures: Families under financial strain or parents balancing multiple jobs may struggle to maintain regular toilet training schedules. Cultural Shifts: Changing attitudes toward independence and readiness have influenced how and when parents encourage toilet training. Despite these challenges, educators stress that early support and routine can make a significant difference in preparing children for school. Impacts on the Classroom Starting school without being toilet trained can create practical challenges for teachers: Time spent helping individual children with accidents can distract from teaching. Shared spaces such as toilets may become overwhelmed, particularly in schools with large class sizes. Staff may need extra training and resources to manage hygiene and support children sensitively. For children, the impacts extend beyond physical care: Frequent accidents can affect self-esteem and social confidence. Children may feel embarrassment or anxiety, making it harder to focus on learning. Peer reactions may exacerbate feelings of exclusion or frustration. Teachers emphasize that the issue is not solely a matter of discipline, but one of developmental readiness and support for children and families. What Experts Recommend Early childhood specialists recommend a range of strategies to address the challenge: Early Education Programs: Nursery and preschool programs can support children in developing independence, including toilet training, in a safe and encouraging environment. Parental Guidance and Resources: Clear advice on timing, routines, and positive reinforcement can help parents navigate toilet training more effectively. Government Support: Policies that support working families, including access to affordable childcare, can reduce stress and allow parents to focus on developmental milestones. Teacher Training: Providing educators with strategies to manage accidents sensitively and support children’s self-confidence can improve classroom outcomes. The key message from experts is that toilet training is a developmental milestone, not a moral issue, and with guidance and support, most children can achieve readiness before or shortly after starting school. Societal and Policy Considerations The rise in children starting school without being toilet trained has sparked debate about broader societal trends: Should schools take more responsibility for early childhood readiness, or is it primarily a parental responsibility? How do economic and social pressures affect families’ ability to prepare children for school? What role should government programs play in supporting early development? Some advocates argue that the issue reflects deeper structural challenges, including lack of access to quality childcare, overburdened working parents, and inconsistent early education policies across regions. Voices From Parents Parents have expressed a mix of understanding and concern. Many note that toilet training is not always linear, and children develop at different rates. Some parents report feeling pressure from schools or peers, while others welcome guidance and support. One parent in Manchester said: "Every child develops differently. Some are ready at three, some at four. What matters is support and patience, not judgment." Educators echo this sentiment, emphasizing that sensitivity and practical solutions are more productive than criticism. Looking Ahead While one in four children starting school without being toilet trained may seem high, experts point out that early intervention, guidance, and routine can address most cases effectively. Schools, parents, and policymakers need to collaborate to ensure children enter school confident, healthy, and ready to learn. Increasing awareness among parents, providing early support, and equipping teachers with the necessary tools can minimize stress for children and educators alike. Conclusion: A Developmental, Not a Moral, Issue Starting school without being toilet trained is a common developmental challenge, not a failure on the part of children or parents. Teachers, parents, and policymakers all have roles to play in supporting children’s readiness for school. Through early education, guidance, and supportive policies, the majority of children can achieve this milestone and transition smoothly into the classroom environment. Raising awareness and providing resources is key to ensuring that children start school confident, independent, and ready to thrive.
By Muhammad Hassan11 days ago in The Swamp
Trump’s Greenland ‘Framework of a Future Deal’: What We Know So Far. AI-Generated.
In January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had reached what he described as a “framework of a future deal” concerning the strategic Arctic territory of Greenland. The comments came at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland — a high-profile backdrop for what could become one of the most controversial diplomatic negotiations in recent Western history. �
By Ayesha Lashari11 days ago in The Swamp
Murders That Could Be Linked to 100 More Deaths. AI-Generated.
For years, the murders appeared isolated—tragic, brutal, but seemingly unconnected. Different cities. Different victims. Different methods. Police reports closed one case at a time, labeling them as crimes of passion, random violence, or unfortunate coincidences. But a growing body of evidence suggests something far more disturbing: these murders may be linked to nearly 100 additional deaths, forming a hidden pattern of violence that has gone unnoticed for decades.
By Ayesha Lashari11 days ago in The Swamp
The Leaky Jar. AI-Generated.
At first glance, the leaky jar seems like a simple, almost insignificant problem. A container with a crack, unable to hold what is poured into it. Yet, when viewed more deeply, the leaky jar becomes a powerful metaphor for human energy, emotions, time, and self-worth. Many of us are walking through life carrying invisible leaky jars—trying to fill them with happiness, success, love, or validation—only to wonder why we still feel empty.
By Aarif Lashari11 days ago in The Swamp
