and I still can’t get it to work.”
The electrician examined the lamp, then nodded his head. “Well, this lamp has a built-in clapper, see?”
“‘Clapper?'” the novice repeated.
The electrician nodded again, then clapped his hands… and the novice was enlightened.
‘Oh,’ replies the husband, ‘that’s my mistress.’
‘Well, that’s the last straw,’ says the wife. ‘I’ve had enough, I want a divorce.’
‘I can understand that,’ replies her husband, ‘but remember, if we get a divorce it means that you don’t get any more shopping trips to Paris, no more wintering in Barbados, no more summers in Tuscany, no more Ferraris and Lexus’s in the garage and no more yacht club. But the decision is yours.’
Just then, a mutual friend enters the restaurant with a gorgeous babe on his arm.
‘Who’s that woman with Jim?’ asks the wife.
‘That’s his mistress,’ says her husband.
‘Ours is much prettier,’ she replies
The farmer nodded. “Sure thing, but I have to go inside to get the money.” With that, he disappeared inside.The driver’s companion said, “What are you planning to do?”“I’m giving him a ten,” snickered the driver. “I’ll mark up the zero to look like an eight. He’ll never know the difference.”The farmer reappeared with a battered wallet. He took the bill offered him with the barest glance and put it into his pocket. Then he looked up and said, “How do you want the change? Two nines or three sixes?”
and another …” The sheriff thought for a minute and then said, “Mam … I don’t know how to tell you this, but the only thing even resembling a tree on this road for thirty miles is your air freshener.”
I’ve been very lucky to keep it from him while we were courting, but as soon as he’s lived with me for a week, he’s bound to find out. Now how do I tell him gently?”
The husband finally plucks up enough courage to tell his wife and walks into the bedroom. He walks over to the bed, climbs over to his wife, puts his arm around her neck, moves his face very close to hers and says, “Darling, I’ve got a confession to make.” She says, “So have I, love.” To which he replies, “Don’t tell me, you’ve eaten my socks.”
The husband looks up, “Do you remember 20 years ago when we were dating, and you were only 17?” he asks solemnly. The wife is touched, thinking her husband is so caring and sensitive. “Yes, I do,” she replies. The husband pauses. The words are not coming easily.
“Do you remember when your father caught us in the backseat of my car?” “Yes, I remember,” says the wife, lowering herself into a chair beside him. The husband continues, “Do you remember when he shoved a shotgun in my face and said,
“Either you marry my daughter, or I will send you to jail for 20 years!” “I remember that too,” she replies softly. He wipes another tear from his cheek and says, “I would have gotten out today!”
“Larry! What is it?!” asked Tom. “I have good news and bad news from heaven.” “What’s the good news?” “There is baseball in heaven after all, but the bad news is you’re pitching on Tuesday.”
however it hit the windshield of the car behind me. It was a highway patrol car and the officer gave me a ticket.” “What for?” she asked, “Damaging his windshield?” “No, for flipping him the bird!”
Pop culture phenomena have always been a mirror reflecting society’s interests, values, and trends. In the digital age, these phenomena can go viral, spreading rapidly and influencing millions around the globe. Viral trends, whether they originate from social media, music, fashion, or other entertainment forms, have a significant impact on society. This article explores the nature of viral trends, their origins, and their profound effects on culture, behavior, and the economy.
A viral trend is a concept, behavior, or piece of content that spreads quickly from person to person, often through social media and other online platforms. These trends can encompass a wide range of formats, including videos, memes, challenges, and hashtags. The key characteristics of viral trends include:
Viral trends can originate from various sources, including:
Viral trends can have a profound impact on culture, shaping societal norms, values, and behaviors.
Fashion and beauty trends often go viral, influencing how people dress and present themselves. For example, the “no-makeup” makeup look popularized by influencers on Instagram has led to a shift towards more natural beauty standards. Similarly, viral fashion trends like the resurgence of 90s styles or the popularity of streetwear can be seen reflected in mainstream fashion.
Music and entertainment are heavily influenced by viral trends. Platforms like TikTok have become launching pads for songs, with viral dance challenges propelling tracks to the top of the charts. Artists like Lil Nas X with “Old Town Road” and Olivia Rodrigo with “Driver’s License” owe part of their success to viral trends on social media. Additionally, streaming services and algorithms amplify these trends, ensuring they reach a wider audience.
Viral trends can introduce new phrases, slang, and memes into everyday language. Terms like “lit,” “flex,” “yeet,” and “FOMO” have entered the lexicon through their widespread use online. These linguistic trends can foster a sense of community among users and influence how people communicate in digital and real-world interactions.
Viral trends can also affect social behavior, encouraging new forms of interaction and participation.
Social media challenges can inspire positive social behavior and activism. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, which went viral in 2014, raised awareness and funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) research. Similarly, the #BlackLivesMatter hashtag has mobilized millions worldwide, raising awareness about racial injustice and prompting significant social and political discourse.
While viral trends can foster connection and entertainment, they can also impact mental health. The pressure to participate in trends or maintain a certain online persona can contribute to anxiety, stress, and feelings of inadequacy. It’s important for users to balance engagement with viral content and mindful consumption to protect their mental well-being.
Viral trends have substantial economic implications, affecting businesses, brands, and industries.
Companies harness the power of viral trends to market products and services. Viral marketing campaigns can lead to increased brand visibility, customer engagement, and sales. The use of hashtags, influencer partnerships, and user-generated content are common strategies to capitalize on viral phenomena.
Viral trends often drive consumer behavior, influencing purchasing decisions. For example, a viral TikTok video featuring a beauty product can lead to a surge in sales, often referred to as the “TikTok effect.” E-commerce platforms and brands monitor viral trends to anticipate demand and adjust their marketing strategies accordingly.
The rise of viral trends has created new opportunities for content creators and influencers to monetize their online presence. Sponsored posts, brand collaborations, and ad revenue are some ways creators earn income. This shift has given rise to the gig economy, where individuals can build careers around creating and sharing viral content.
While viral trends can spread positive messages, they can also propagate misinformation and harmful content. The rapid spread of false information, conspiracy theories, and hoaxes can have serious consequences, influencing public opinion and behavior. It is crucial for platforms and users to verify information before sharing to mitigate the spread of misinformation.
The pursuit of virality can sometimes lead to ethical and privacy concerns. Content creators may engage in risky or harmful behavior to gain attention, and the pressure to go viral can lead to compromised ethical standards. Additionally, the widespread sharing of content can infringe on individuals’ privacy, leading to unintended consequences for those featured in viral videos or posts.
The impact of viral trends is not uniformly distributed across society. Access to the internet and digital literacy varies, creating a digital divide. Those without reliable internet access or digital skills may be excluded from participating in viral trends, leading to disparities in social and economic opportunities.
As technology continues to evolve, so too will the nature of viral trends. Emerging platforms and technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), have the potential to create new forms of viral content. These advancements will offer novel ways for users to engage with and share trends, further blurring the lines between the digital and physical worlds.
There is a growing awareness of the need for sustainability and social responsibility in viral trends. Brands and creators are increasingly focusing on promoting positive messages, ethical practices, and environmental consciousness. Future viral trends may prioritize social impact, encouraging behaviors that benefit society and the planet.
Advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning will continue to refine how content is personalized and recommended. Algorithms will become more adept at identifying potential viral trends and tailoring content to individual preferences. This will enhance user engagement and ensure that viral content remains relevant and resonant.
Viral trends are a powerful force in shaping modern society, influencing culture, behavior, and the economy. From fashion and music to social movements and marketing, the impact of these trends is far-reaching. As technology and digital platforms continue to evolve, so too will the nature of viral phenomena. While there are challenges to navigate, the potential for positive influence and innovation remains significant. By understanding and harnessing the power of viral trends, society can continue to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing digital landscape.
The advent of streaming services has revolutionized the entertainment landscape, transforming how audiences consume television and movies. Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu have disrupted traditional media consumption patterns, offering unprecedented convenience, variety, and customization. This article explores the profound influence of streaming services on the TV and movie industries, examining the changes they have brought about in content creation, distribution, and consumption.
The origins of streaming can be traced back to the early 2000s, with services like YouTube providing a platform for video content. However, it was Netflix, initially a DVD rental service, that pioneered the subscription-based streaming model in 2007. This marked a significant shift in how audiences accessed media, moving from physical rentals and scheduled broadcasts to on-demand viewing.
The success of Netflix spurred the emergence of numerous competitors. Amazon Prime Video, launched in 2011, provided a robust alternative with its integration into the Amazon Prime ecosystem. Hulu, established in 2007, offered a hybrid model with both on-demand and live TV options. More recently, Disney+ launched in 2019, capitalizing on Disney’s extensive library of beloved content. The entry of major players like Apple TV+ and HBO Max further intensified the competition, each bringing unique offerings to the market.
One of the most significant impacts of streaming services is their emphasis on original programming. Netflix set the trend with acclaimed series like “House of Cards” and “Stranger Things,” demonstrating the potential of in-house productions. This shift has encouraged other platforms to invest heavily in original content, leading to a boom in high-quality TV series and films. Disney+, for instance, leverages its Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar franchises to create exclusive content that attracts a massive subscriber base.
Streaming services often provide creators with greater creative freedom compared to traditional networks. The absence of rigid time slots and fewer content restrictions allow for more experimental and diverse storytelling. Shows like “The Crown” and “The Mandalorian” benefit from larger budgets and creative autonomy, resulting in higher production values and unique narratives that might not fit conventional TV formats.
The global reach of streaming platforms has facilitated the production and distribution of content from diverse cultural backgrounds. Netflix’s international hits like “Money Heist” and “Squid Game” have garnered worldwide acclaim, highlighting the universal appeal of well-crafted stories. This has opened doors for creators from various regions to showcase their work on a global stage, promoting cultural exchange and inclusivity in media.
The primary appeal of streaming services is their on-demand nature. Viewers can access a vast library of content at their convenience, eliminating the need to adhere to broadcast schedules. This shift has empowered audiences to curate their own viewing experiences, leading to the rise of binge-watching. Entire seasons of TV shows are often released simultaneously, allowing viewers to consume content at their own pace.
The convenience and affordability of streaming services have contributed to the cord-cutting trend, where consumers cancel traditional cable or satellite TV subscriptions in favor of streaming options. According to a report by eMarketer, the number of cord-cutters in the United States surpassed 50 million in 2021, a clear indication of the shifting preferences towards streaming platforms. This trend has forced traditional TV networks to adapt by launching their own streaming services, such as NBC’s Peacock and CBS All Access (rebranded as Paramount+).
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated changes in distribution models, with many studios opting for hybrid release strategies. The simultaneous release of films in theaters and on streaming platforms became common, as seen with Warner Bros.’s decision to release its 2021 slate on HBO Max alongside theatrical releases. This approach caters to both traditional moviegoers and those who prefer the convenience of home viewing, potentially reshaping the future of film distribution.
Streaming services utilize sophisticated algorithms to analyze viewer preferences and provide personalized content recommendations. This level of customization enhances user engagement by suggesting shows and movies that align with individual tastes. Netflix’s recommendation engine, for example, uses data-driven insights to curate content for each subscriber, increasing viewer satisfaction and retention.
The flexibility offered by streaming services has led to the decline of appointment viewing, where audiences tuned in at specific times for their favorite shows. Instead, viewers now watch content at their own pace, contributing to the rise of binge-watching. This shift has altered how networks approach content release schedules, with many opting to release entire seasons at once to cater to binge-watchers.
The integration of streaming with social media has also influenced consumer behavior. Viewers often discuss and share their favorite shows and movies on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, creating a sense of community and driving word-of-mouth promotion. Streaming services leverage this trend by encouraging social media engagement, with features like Netflix’s “Watch Party” allowing users to watch and chat about content simultaneously.
The proliferation of streaming services has led to content saturation, with an overwhelming amount of shows and movies available to viewers. While this abundance provides variety, it can also make it challenging for consumers to discover new content. Streaming platforms must continuously innovate their recommendation algorithms and user interfaces to help viewers navigate this vast landscape.
As more streaming services enter the market, consumers face the challenge of managing multiple subscriptions. The cost of subscribing to several platforms can add up, leading to subscription fatigue. To address this, some companies are exploring bundling options or offering ad-supported tiers to provide more affordable choices for consumers.
The competitive nature of the streaming market may lead to further consolidation. Companies may merge or acquire smaller players to strengthen their content libraries and market presence. Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox and WarnerMedia’s merger with Discovery are examples of this trend. Such consolidation can impact the diversity of available content and shape the future landscape of streaming.
Technological advancements will continue to shape the future of streaming services. Improved internet speeds, 5G connectivity, and advancements in AI and machine learning will enhance the quality and accessibility of streaming content. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies may also play a role in creating immersive viewing experiences, adding another dimension to how audiences consume media.
Streaming services are increasingly focusing on global expansion to tap into new markets. Netflix, for instance, has invested in producing local content in countries like India, South Korea, and Brazil to cater to regional audiences. This globalization strategy not only broadens subscriber bases but also enriches the content library with diverse stories from around the world.
Streaming services have undeniably transformed the TV and movie industries, reshaping how content is created, distributed, and consumed. Platforms like Netflix and Disney+ have introduced new paradigms of convenience, personalization, and creative freedom, attracting millions of subscribers worldwide. As the industry continues to evolve, streaming services will likely play an even more significant role in defining the future of entertainment. While challenges such as content saturation and subscription fatigue persist, the innovative spirit driving these platforms promises to keep audiences engaged and entertained for years to come.
Virtual Reality (VR) has transitioned from a futuristic concept to a tangible technology that is reshaping the landscape of entertainment. Over the past decade, VR has evolved significantly, moving beyond niche applications to mainstream adoption. The immersive nature of VR offers a unique experience, allowing users to interact with digital environments in ways that were previously unimaginable. This article delves into the latest advancements in VR technology and examines its profound impact on the entertainment industry.
The concept of VR dates back to the mid-20th century with early inventions like the Sensorama and the Telesphere Mask. However, it wasn’t until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that VR began to take shape in the form we recognize today. The development of head-mounted displays (HMDs) and motion tracking systems laid the groundwork for modern VR experiences.
The release of the Oculus Rift in 2012 marked a significant milestone in VR technology. This device, developed by Oculus VR, a subsidiary of Meta Platforms (formerly Facebook), set new standards for VR headsets. It featured improved tracking, higher resolution displays, and a more comfortable user experience. Following the Oculus Rift, other major players like HTC Vive, Sony PlayStation VR, and Valve Index entered the market, each bringing their own innovations.
Recent years have seen remarkable advancements in VR technology. Standalone VR headsets, such as the Oculus Quest and Quest 2, have gained popularity due to their wireless capabilities and ease of use. These devices offer high-quality VR experiences without the need for a powerful gaming PC or external sensors. Additionally, advancements in haptic feedback, eye-tracking, and spatial audio have further enhanced the level of immersion, making VR experiences more realistic than ever.
Gaming has been at the forefront of VR adoption. The immersive nature of VR allows gamers to step into virtual worlds and interact with them in unprecedented ways. Popular VR games like “Beat Saber,” “Half-Life: Alyx,” and “The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners” have garnered critical acclaim for their innovative use of VR technology. These games leverage VR’s ability to provide a 360-degree field of view, natural motion tracking, and tactile feedback to create deeply engaging experiences.
VR is also revolutionizing the way stories are told in cinema. Traditional filmmaking techniques are being adapted to create immersive VR narratives. Directors and storytellers are experimenting with VR to place viewers at the center of the story, allowing them to experience events from a first-person perspective. This form of storytelling has the potential to evoke stronger emotional responses and a deeper sense of presence. VR films like “The Great C” and “Wolves in the Walls” showcase the unique storytelling possibilities of this medium.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of VR for live events. With physical gatherings limited, artists and event organizers turned to VR to create virtual concerts and events. Platforms like Wave, VRChat, and Sansar have hosted virtual performances by major artists, offering fans an immersive and interactive concert experience. These virtual events allow attendees to explore digital venues, interact with other fans, and enjoy performances as if they were there in person.
Theme parks and location-based entertainment centers are incorporating VR to enhance attractions and create new experiences. VR roller coasters, such as those found at Universal Studios and Six Flags, combine physical thrills with immersive virtual environments. Additionally, VR escape rooms and interactive exhibits are gaining popularity, providing visitors with unique and engaging experiences that blend the physical and digital worlds.
One of the most significant impacts of VR on entertainment is the heightened level of immersion and interactivity it offers. Unlike traditional media, VR places users inside the experience, allowing them to interact with the environment and characters in meaningful ways. This level of immersion creates a sense of presence, making users feel as though they are truly part of the virtual world.
VR opens up new avenues for creative expression. Artists, filmmakers, and game developers can experiment with storytelling techniques that were previously impossible. The ability to create fully immersive environments allows for innovative narrative structures and interactive experiences. For example, VR can be used to create non-linear stories where users can explore different paths and outcomes based on their choices.
VR has the potential to reach new audiences who may not be interested in traditional forms of entertainment. The interactive and immersive nature of VR can appeal to individuals who prefer more active and engaging experiences. Additionally, VR can make entertainment more accessible to people with disabilities by providing alternative ways to experience content.
The growing popularity of VR in entertainment has created new economic opportunities. VR game development, VR filmmaking, and VR event production are emerging industries with significant growth potential. Furthermore, VR experiences can generate additional revenue streams for traditional entertainment companies. For example, theme parks can offer premium VR attractions, and film studios can produce VR companion experiences for their movies.
Despite its advancements, VR technology still faces several technical challenges. Motion sickness, caused by discrepancies between visual and physical movement, remains a common issue. Improving display resolution, reducing latency, and enhancing motion tracking are ongoing areas of research and development. Additionally, the cost of high-quality VR equipment can be a barrier to widespread adoption.
Creating high-quality VR content is a complex and resource-intensive process. VR experiences require specialized skills in 3D modeling, animation, and interactive design. As the demand for VR content grows, there is a need for more accessible tools and platforms that allow creators to produce immersive experiences more easily.
The immersive nature of VR raises important social and ethical considerations. The potential for VR to create highly realistic simulations raises questions about its impact on mental health, privacy, and user behavior. Additionally, the development of VR content must consider issues of inclusivity and representation to ensure that VR experiences are accessible and relevant to diverse audiences.
The future of VR in entertainment is promising, with several exciting developments on the horizon. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are expected to enhance the realism and interactivity of VR experiences. AI-driven characters and environments can respond dynamically to user actions, creating more immersive and personalized experiences. Additionally, the integration of VR with other emerging technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR), has the potential to create even more compelling and versatile entertainment experiences.
Virtual reality has come a long way from its early beginnings, evolving into a powerful technology that is transforming the entertainment industry. The latest advancements in VR are pushing the boundaries of what is possible, offering unprecedented levels of immersion and interactivity. From gaming and cinema to virtual concerts and theme park attractions, VR is creating new ways for people to experience and engage with entertainment. While challenges remain, the future of VR in entertainment is bright, with endless possibilities for creative expression and audience engagement. As technology continues to advance, VR is poised to become an integral part of the entertainment landscape, shaping the way we experience and interact with digital content.
To sum it up — it did not go well. After an immensely depressing 90 minutes, here’s how Twitter reacted to the debate:
CNN / @christinakeen891. — Christina Keen 🐶🦆🦫🐢🦥 (@christinakeen89) June 28, 2024
alexa play i hate it here by taylor swift pic.twitter.com/KReo5ctvzN
@chunkyfila2. — chunky fila (@chunkyfila) June 28, 2024
Give them both a pdf, first one that can rotate it gets to be president
@snmrrw3. — Sean Morrow (@snmrrw) June 28, 2024
trying to give joe an adderall through the tv pic.twitter.com/cd2Lp1OnpB
20th Television Animation / @bakerbakerbaker4. — baber (@bakerbakerbaker) June 28, 2024
bro why everytime they cut to biden hes pic.twitter.com/HgbBHlyyYq
@BDTRELILBROTHER5. — Raymonte (@BDTRELILBROTHER) June 28, 2024
Baby Biden could have a heart attack and his eyeball could literally fall out live on camera I’m still not voting for trump
@salvucciodamic6. — s (@salvucciodamico) June 28, 2024
pic.twitter.com/xPAYE5FdoT
@Phil_Lewis_7. — philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) June 28, 2024
moderators: thank you https://t.co/XsIH8RpEhA
CNN / @VLONEPREDATOR8. — Pilgrim (@VLONEPREDATOR) June 28, 2024
Donald Trump and Joe Biden are taking turns napping while the other one talks 😭 pic.twitter.com/yoXAewA1w8
@botticellibimbo9. — reversecowgirl69 (@botticellibimbo) June 28, 2024
the worst thing about them playing the debate at the strip club rn is that neither sound nor subtitles are on so its just the vibe of the debate. pic.twitter.com/FT0nCroEuW
CNN / @JBW9010. — Migo Targaryen (@JBW90) June 28, 2024
If I send you this, just know I don’t know wtf is going on pic.twitter.com/lxPmCmNOgT
@annkpowers11. — Feeling Distant (@annkpowers) June 28, 2024
Even Calm is freaked out https://t.co/7VOufodO9H
@stevanzetti12. — steven monacelli (@stevanzetti) June 27, 2024
Making two geriatrics argue in front of the entire country at 9PM is diabolical
@DaveMcNamee300013. — 7/11 Truther (@DaveMcNamee3000) June 28, 2024
pic.twitter.com/Q8Gemq4wQc
@AdamFriedland14. — Adam Friedland (@AdamFriedland) June 28, 2024
I wish they could both be president
@burgerkrang15. — adam (@burgerkrang) June 28, 2024
this game sucks lol pic.twitter.com/IrInHFEKEo
Amazon Prime / @MainEventChris16. — Prince Debit 🇨🇲 (@MainEventChris_) June 28, 2024
Me and the homies at our black job pic.twitter.com/rsYMstGJyw
@tyler0202020217. — tyler (@tyler02020202) June 28, 2024
this elder abuse livestream
@kenklippenstein18. — Ken Klippenstein (@kenklippenstein) June 28, 2024
two rich geriatrics debating their golf game. this sucks man
20th Television Animation/ @tiffmoustakas19. — Tiffany Moustakas (@tiffmoustakas) June 28, 2024
All of the US right now pic.twitter.com/wYBY0ORTOp
@ByYourLogic20. — Lead Actor from Pixar’s Sodas (@ByYourLogic) June 28, 2024
I was the White House staffer who decided that Biden should swallow an entire pineapple whole and then hold his breath and do a few spins before this debate
@myeshachou21. — myesha thee stallion (@myeshachou) June 28, 2024
whole time obama was shuffling through chappell roan’s discography for his summer playlist
@ElieNYC22. — Elie Mystal (@ElieNYC) June 28, 2024
… Kamala needs to sub in during the commercial break.
HBO / @slayonetta23. — d*niel (@slayonetta) June 28, 2024
Kamala Harris backstage rn pic.twitter.com/xz29o98TPP
@ginnyhogan_24. — Ginny Hogan_ (@ginnyhogan_) June 28, 2024
ok if you don’t live in the US, please turn the debate off. This is our private family humiliation, and we’d all prefer you not stare.
@ryenarussillo25. — Russillo (@ryenarussillo) June 28, 2024
Ask about Bronny @jaketapper
CNN / @JoeDellera26. — Joe Dellera (@JoeDellera) June 28, 2024
Me when my bets don’t hit pic.twitter.com/qSzkFjNz3e
@AdamFriedland27. — Adam Friedland (@AdamFriedland) June 28, 2024
Was gonna propose to my gf during the debate but I feel like it’s not the vibe
@charizardavis28. — charles r. davis (@charizardavis) June 28, 2024
this is going to ruin the tour
@ItsMattsLaw29. — Matt Margolis (@ItsMattsLaw) June 28, 2024
any drinking game will result in death tonight
@ali_sivi30. — bald ann dowd (@ali_sivi) June 28, 2024
god they’re both so hot
@BlakPantherBabe31. — Monica 💚Free 🇨🇩🇵🇸🇸🇩 (@BlakPantherBabe) June 28, 2024
We’re cooked pic.twitter.com/EpwV0iTJyt
Tati via YouTube / @rosedommu32. — Rose Dommu (@rosedommu) June 28, 2024
CNN should have aired this instead of the debate pic.twitter.com/E3Rb8rSbXE
@greg1667693542033. — greg (@greg16676935420) June 28, 2024
I bet Abe Lincoln would rather go watch another play rather than this debate
CNN / @parisrae1334. — paris rae 🍉 (@parisrae13) June 28, 2024
me at a concert realizing the artist is actually real pic.twitter.com/1ePoaOYvXx
Paramount+ / @heyjaeee35. — 💫 (@heyjaeee) June 28, 2024
America pic.twitter.com/3ezBMcR2zC
In conclusion, pray for America!
Katy Perry left little to the imagination as she stormed the runway at Vogue World: Paris Sunday.
The former “American Idol” judge showed some serious skin wearing an archival Noir Kei Ninomiya gown during a surprise appearance at Place Vendôme.
Perry, 39, turned heads in the cut-out number which featured geometric print designs stitched across her body, with billowing peach and black tulle embellishments woven into a thick skirt.
Her harnessed gown included zippered edges, and she wore a pair of laced-up, black leather boots on the catwalk.
Perry’s dark brown hair was slicked back and styled by Dimitris Giannetos, and makeup artist Michael Anthony focused on a smokey eye using pink and gold Path McGrath shades for the “Firework” singer.
Backstage, the “I Kissed a Girl” singer received a few pointers on her supermodel walk with help from FKA twigs and Cara Delevingne.
“Just make sure it looks like you’re going somewhere, but not in a pop star way,” FKA told Perry.
“I’ve only ever been a pop star,” Katy responded.
“I mean, I love ‘Idol’ so much … It’s connected me with the heart of America, but I feel like I need to go out and feel that pulse to my own beat,” she told Jimmy Kimmel on his self-titled late night show in February.
She noted that her fellow judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie were aware that she had “some things planned for this year.”
“So it’s going to be a very, very exciting year … for all popstar gillies,” Perry said.
Last week, Perry announced her new single hits airwaves in July, titled, “Woman’s World.”
Tarah Demant is National Director of Programmes at Amnesty International USA, where she campaigns on issues such gender justice and abortion rights. The past year has been one of the toughest for her, as the USA has seen a huge rollback on human rights.
In this interview, she talks about the impact of abortion bans on people in the USA, how she’s advocating for change at every level and why the hope and resilience of activists across the country spurs her on…
There has been an incredible backlash against gender justice throughout the Americas, including in the United States. One of the most obvious examples of this backlash is the attack on abortion rights across the region.
Honestly, it’s exhausting. The attacks are relentless. Anti-rights actors are moving state-by-state trying to push further abortion bans and criminalization. These attacks on abortion are hand-in-hand with broader anti-gender attacks across the country, including vicious attacks against transgender children. It’s devastating. It has real impact on people. And it takes a toll emotionally.
There is a lot of hope and resilience in the community. People show up day after day for each other, for their friends and neighbours, and for people they will never know.Tarah Demant
But it’s also a privilege to work in this space — there is a lot of hope and resilience in the community. People show up day after day for each other, for their friends and neighbours, and for people they will never know. In the toughest places — in the most conservative states — people are their fiercest. Fighting alongside these incredible activists inspires a lot of hope. And no matter what happens politically, we are determined — we will never stop fighting. And that commitment is where I find a lot of energy.
We’re working across the country to combat abortion bans and to win further protections for abortion rights at multiple levels. We are documenting the impact of abortion bans and restrictions in our research, showing the real, human impacts of these human rights violations. We’re helping to connect global activists to local activists—creating solidarity and learning that has really buoyed work here nationally. And we’re lobbying the federal government: I spend a lot of time educating Congress on abortion and pushing the Administration to take every action it can to protect abortion rights.
But we’re also ensuring we’re where the fight really is now: at the state level. The Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe meant that abortion rights are now left entirely to the individual states—and we’ve had to adjust very quickly to how we try to effect change as an international human rights organisation working at national level.
We’re equipping our activists in every state with the tools to engage in advocacy in their state as well as within their local communities: lobbying state officials, talking about abortion in conversations, raising abortion rights in local council meetings, ensuring abortion is always on the agenda in local governments. And we’re invested in states where voters can weigh in directly — like our work in Arizona, where we are fighting to pass a ballot initiative that would protect abortion in the state constitution. We’re making sure that Amnesty is showing up for abortion rights in the USA — with our research, our lobbying, and our activists at home AND globally. And it matters. We can and will win.
We have talked to doctors who’ve had to turn away patients desperate for their care. We’ve heard from families who have tried to figure out how to go thousands of miles to seek the care that their loved one needs and ultimately, we’ve heard stories of people who’ve been forced to give birth by the state because they couldn’t access abortion care.
But we’ve also witnessed stories of hope and communities of incredible resilience, of people across every state in the country and across every country in the Americas who are standing up for their rights, who are fighting back and who are fighting for each other.
In a state like Texas that has one of the most extreme anti-abortion laws, including a bounty-hunter system for those “assisting” in abortion, activists are unbowed. They are working every day to get people the information and care they need – even if that means travelling out of state. They are also supporting each other against a backdrop of relentless political attacks and threats to their safety and freedom.
There is an incredibly dangerous backlash against gender equality in the United States, across the region and globally. The anti-gender movement within the United States represents a very small minority of opinion, but it is very powerful, incredibly well-funded, very well-organized.
And there is national and transnational coordination with shared strategies and objectives that challenge hard-won gains toward gender equality on multiple levels. These include attacks on the very idea of gender itself, pushing instead for a world in which only so called “traditional family” and stereotyped gender roles are accepted and protected. This means controlling women’s choices and behaviours, limiting people’s reproductive autonomy — including by restricting access to abortion, birth control, and sexuality education — and erasing LGBTQIA+ people altogether. We must take this threat incredibly seriously and fight it at every turn.
The fight for abortion rights will not stop with abortion. Every person’s autonomy is on the line. And we are going to continue to show up to that fight every day, even when it’s not the front page of the news. We’re working side-by-side in communities across the world to defend these rights—to defend our rights. We’re there. And we can do more and become more as people join us in this fight.
We will keep fighting in every state across the nation and in every nation across the region, because we believe in the human rights of all people, and we believe in the future we’re building together. And we know that together we can win.
I believe in the future we are building — and I’m not alone. People are fired up across the country, particularly on abortion rights. I believe in a future where laws protect our rights, where women and people who can get pregnant control their own bodies and lives, where LGBTQIA+ people can live safely and authentically — a future where we protect and support each other and where we understand that each of our freedoms is tied together.
It can sometimes be hard to feel hopeful when the politics are so dangerous and skewed, but whether on any given day I feel optimistic or pessimistic, I remain determined to build that future.
The series, known as “Ok Blue Comics,” is back.
This single-color comic shows different life situations, often highlighting relatable moments in relationships. In his first post on our site, the cartoonist said, “Life doesn’t have to be serious. You can joke and have fun, even when things are tough. Creating comics is my passion, and I love doing it! Thank you to everyone who reads and enjoys my work.”
Why not dive in and explore the comics we’ve picked for you today? Let us know in the comments which situations you relate to the most. Enjoy!
