In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re talking about Chile’s decision to rewrite its constitution, a group that helps farm workers take power and acknowledge their rights, and how citizens’ assemblies can contribute to politics.
Chile has voted to rewrite its constitution
78% of Chileans voted in majority for the rewriting of their constitution, marking the highest election turnout since 1989. The old one dates to the military rule of Gen Augusto Pinochet.
Source: BBC
Florida: this group has nearly erased sexual harassment on farm fields
The Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), uses interactive, peer to peer trainings that incorporate theatre, art work and real life experiences to teach workers about their rights.
Source: Civil Eats
What we could learn from citizens’ assemblies
The concept is based on gathering the closest possible representation to the population when choosing members. The most successful to date, was in Ireland, where an abortion ban was overthrown.
Source: The Philadelphia Citizen
Sex attacks in Egypt have fuelled a feminist revolution
In July, a 22-year-old student spoke out about her abuse online and attracted support from fellow women. Despite the high stakes, Egyptian women have continued to voice their opinions now more than ever on sexual assault.
Source: BBC
This women-led non-profit tackles immigration law in the US
Mobilised by lawyer moms, Washington Immigrant Defense Network (WIDEN) provides free legal aid on immigrant issues including family separation.
Source: Yes Magazine
Instagram row over plus-size model forces change to nudity policy
Facebook amends its code following the deletion of a black users’ photos that sparked outrage.
Source: The Guardian
These groups try to hack the votes before the real criminals can
Companies are looking for strategies to counter election day chaos. Cybereason for example, provides affordable simulations to help the public in identifying possible election day hazards.
Source: The Christian Science Monitor
This former sub-district magistrate has planted native trees on 15 acres of land
Through planting 16,000 trees on formerly barren land, Devidas Chaudhari has inspired 50,000 people, including the forest department to plant more.
Source: The Better India
These homeless men in South Africa turned to agriculture for the community
Today their vegetables are sold to the public with the help of NGOs. Proceeds are given to those who want to go home or need assistance.
Source: Global Citizen
The movement looking to revive American democracy through art
For Freedoms, an anti-partisan platform aims to carry art through all areas of life, particularly in civic engagement.