Women’s History Month: A Women’s Suffrage Memorial on the National Mall
In 1920, Congress passed the Nineteenth Amendment to the Constitution, which granted white women the right to vote in the United States. The journey to get there was long and difficult–and often unrecognized. But that’s about to change, as Congress begins the process of creating a monument honoring women’s suffrage, or the right to vote, on […]
Senate Acts After Train Derailment
A train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed last month in eastern Ohio. U.S. senators have introduced a new rail safety bill to prevent future railroad disasters and held a hearing to learn more about the incident. Details continue to emerge about the environmental and health impacts on the community. Here, btw takes a closer look at the accident, […]
Recognizing Women with Place Names: Five Canadian Mountains
Have you ever noticed that most geographical locations are named after men? While the number of men and women are relatively equal, there are fewer geographical locations named after women. When you eliminate the categories of Christian saints, Greek goddesses, and queens, even fewer landmarks are named to honor women. A lack of women-inspired place […]
Women’s History Month: The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum
In December 2020, Congress approved funding for the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum. This museum will honor American women’s accomplishments, their histories, and the communities they represent. While the museum organization has hosted many online and in-person events and programs, the physical museum hasn’t been constructed yet. The website for the museum says that it […]
Black History Month: Rev. Frederick Douglas Reese
Have you ever heard of Rev. Frederick Douglas Reese? If not, you aren’t alone. In fact, not many Americans are familiar with F.D. Reese, even though he was a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement and worked for a more just and equal society alongside icons such as John Lewis and Dr. Martin Luther […]
Questions Raised After Deadly Earthquakes in Syria and Turkey
On February 6, 2023, at 4:17 a.m. local time, a powerful earthquake rocked southeastern Turkey and northern Syria. Nine hours later, another quake that was nearly as strong hit farther north in Turkey. As a result, more than 35,000 people died, thousands were injured, and countless more have been left homeless. Questions have been raised […]
Remembering Dr. Carter G. Woodson: Creator of Black History Month
Dr. Carter Woodson was a distinguished teacher, writer, and historian. Woodson is known as the “father of Black history” because he dedicated his life to the teaching and celebration of African American history. He helped establish the annual celebration of Black History Month in February. Here, btw takes a closer look at his life and achievements. Woodson’s […]
Update on the War Between Ukraine and Russia
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of its neighboring country, Ukraine. At that time, Russian President Vladimir Putin sent approximately 200,000 soldiers into Ukraine. Russia sought to capture the capital city of Kyiv and overthrow the Ukrainian government in a matter of days. Initially, it looked like this would happen. Russia captured […]
Florida’s Wildlife After Hurricane Ian
On September 28, 2022, Hurricane Ian made landfall in southwestern Florida as a Category 4 hurricane. The storm generated devastating winds and ferocious surges of ocean water. About 130 people were killed, thousands were left in need of rescue, many thousands more had no shelter, and millions had no electricity. But humans weren’t the only […]
Disposing of Your Pumpkin . . . the Earth-Friendly Way
Halloween is over, so it’s time to get rid of your jack-o-lantern. But don’t toss it into the trash! Every year, Americans spend hundreds of millions of dollars on pumpkins, just to throw them out after Halloween. You might think that the gourds break down naturally in landfills, but they don’t. There isn’t enough oxygen […]