4 June 2016 – News, Stories and Ideas to Make the World a Better Place

In this week’s Top 10 we feature the Mabo anniversary, the Big Issue’s birthday, visit Syria, Africa and the United States – and much more!

1. Yesterday saw the end of Reconciliation Week in Australia for 2016 and also marked the  anniversary of the historic Mabo decision that “recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have rights to the land – rights that existed before the British arrived and can still exist today”.

2. There have been some beautiful stories around as part of Reconciliation Week –  in The Guardian @IndigenousX host Jade Jones-Cubillo shares her story of growing up and finding her identity; and the ABC features the dreams of Aboriginal teenagers from the outback. And of course the Sydney Opera House lit up as the Vivid Festival began.

3. The Big Issue is having its 20th birthday celebrations this month. I’m sure most of you have bought a copy of The Big Issue at some time – even Malcolm Turnbull thinks The Big Issue is great for supporting people to develop confidence! So buy a copy when next you’re out and about and check out their special birthday bumper issue!

4. This is an excellent overview of the war in Syria from the BBC and answers a number of questions such as how many people still live in Syria, what it’s like for those who live there, how food is used as a weapon of war etc.

5. Some of the very discriminatory and archaic laws relating to sexual assault and rape in the United States have come under scrutiny by Human Rights Watch. In the state of Oklahoma for example, consent for oral sex is not required if the person has lost consciousness. And it goes on…

6. 2015 – 2024 is the International Decade for People of African Descent. The major themes being addressed relate to recognition, justice and development and specifically “the need to strengthen national, regional and international cooperation in relation to the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights by people of African descent, and their full and equal participation in all aspects of society”. There are a range of events and activities being held and some very interesting articles and videos you can watch.

7. World Press Freedom Day was held on 3 May. Even though we are a little late we though this was an important story to share. Amnesty International highlight 9 journalists who have been detained, tortured or threatened for speaking up.

8. The 2016/17 Australian Federal budget made big cuts to foreign aid – like $224 million, on top of the $1 billion cuts that came in the 2015/16 budget. In this story from the ABC, the impacts of those cuts on the Pacific Islands is highlighted in areas such as reduction of domestic violence services.

9. This beautiful and moving cartoon was developed by UNICEF through their #actofhumanity campaign. It shares Mustafa’s story of leaving Syria.

10. Here’s an inspiring and Happy way to see the week out. This is Pharrell Williams ‘Happy’ like you’ve never seen it before! Project C.U.R.E. Musana Community Development Organization Action in Africa produced this wonderful video of joyful kids dancing – with some pretty cool moves!

Thanks again for your company. See you next week.

Jenny