1. THE FIGHT FOR VOTING RIGHTS RETURNS TO SELMA

Civil rights leaders, activists, and community members gathered in Selma, Alabama, to speak out after a Supreme Court decision weakened protections in the Voting Rights Act. The group marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the same bridge where peaceful protesters were attacked by police during the civil rights movement in 1965. Many people at the event said they were worried that states could now redraw voting districts in ways that reduce the political power of Black voters. Organizers described the gathering as both a moment of remembrance and a call to continue fighting for equal voting rights. Speakers reminded the crowd that earlier generations worked for years to secure voting protections and encouraged younger people to stay involved in civic life. The event connected past struggles for civil rights with current debates about voting laws and representation. Imagine you are creating a museum exhibit about voting rights in the United States. Write a paragraph explaining which historical events, photographs, speeches, or objects you would include and why they are important. Then describe how your exhibit would help visitors understand why voting rights remain an important issue today.

2. W.H.O. DECLARES EBOLA GLOBAL HEALTH EMERGENCY

The World Health Organization declared a global health emergency after a dangerous Ebola outbreak spread in Congo and Uganda. Health officials reported hundreds of suspected cases and many deaths connected to a rare form of the virus called the Bundibugyo strain. Ebola spreads through contact with bodily fluids and can cause severe illness and death. Doctors and scientists are worried because this version of Ebola does not yet have approved vaccines or treatments. Aid workers and medical teams have traveled to affected areas with supplies and equipment to help patients and stop the spread of the disease. Ongoing fighting and large population movements in the region have made it harder for health workers to trace infections and protect communities. Experts say international cooperation is important to prevent the outbreak from becoming worse. Pretend you are a public health official creating an information campaign about Ebola for students and families. Write a short announcement explaining what Ebola is, how diseases can spread, and what people can do to stay safe during outbreaks. Include at least two examples of why accurate information and cooperation between countries are important during health emergencies.

3. NEW MEXICO LAND FIGHT

A major political race in New Mexico is focused on how millions of acres of public land should be managed. Candidates for state land commissioner disagree about whether more land should be used for oil drilling, mining, and grazing or protected for conservation and recreation. Republicans argue that energy projects help support schools and hospitals by bringing in large amounts of money. Democrats and environmental groups worry that expanding industrial activity could damage wildlife habitats, national parks, and culturally important areas. The debate has become even more important because President Trump nominated a New Mexico Republican to lead the federal Bureau of Land Management, which oversees even more public land. The election could affect decisions about energy, conservation, Native American lands, and outdoor recreation across the state. Write a “pros and cons” explanation about how governments should use public land. In 8–10 sentences, describe at least two possible benefits of using land for industries like oil or mining and at least two possible benefits of protecting land for nature and recreation. Then explain which challenges leaders face when trying to balance jobs, money, and environmental protection.

4. NEW YORK PROTESTS

Large protests and counterprotests took place outside synagogues in New York City that hosted events promoting real estate in Israel and Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators argued that the settlements are unfair to Palestinians and should not be promoted at houses of worship. Supporters of Israel defended the events and said people have the right to learn about property opportunities in Israel. Some demonstrations became heated, with shouting, pushing, and offensive language from both sides. City leaders and community groups debated how to protect free speech while also preventing intimidation and hate near religious spaces. The protests show how conflicts happening in other parts of the world can create tension and political debate in communities far away. Imagine your class is holding a discussion about a difficult international issue that strongly affects different groups of people. Create a set of five classroom discussion rules that would help students share opinions respectfully and safely. After listing the rules, explain why respectful communication is especially important during emotional or controversial debates.

5. JOURNALIST WRITES ABOUT PRISON EXPERIENCE ABROAD

Australian journalist Cheng Lei is rebuilding her life after spending nearly three years in prison in China. She was arrested in 2020 and accused of sharing state secrets after breaking a government news embargo by a few minutes. Cheng believes politics between Australia and China also played a role in her detention. After returning to Australia in 2023, she wrote a memoir and helped create a play about her prison experience. She has spoken publicly about the harsh conditions she faced, including isolation and constant surveillance. Cheng says she wants to give a voice to other prisoners who cannot safely speak for themselves. She has also used humor and storytelling to help herself recover and connect with audiences. Write a reflective response about how people can stay hopeful during difficult times. In one paragraph, explain two ways creative activities like writing, theater, art, or humor might help someone cope with stress or hardship. Then describe a challenge a person your age might face and how creativity or support from others could help them overcome it.