Minnijean Brown-Trickey, one of the Little Rock Nine, speaks about her experiences and the importance of presenting oneself with confidence. The Little Rock Nine were the first Black students to attend Central High School after segregation was ruled unconstitutional in 1954.
Key Facts
Minnijean Brown-Trickey was part of the Little Rock Nine.
The Little Rock Nine integrated Central High School.
This happened after the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education ruling.
The ruling declared school segregation unconstitutional.
Brown-Trickey discusses the importance of confidence and belonging.
Her talk is part of a series called "Brief But Spectacular."
Don Lemon faced criticism from Nicki Minaj and threats online after covering an anti-ICE protest at a church in Minnesota. Protesters targeted the church where the acting ICE director allegedly operates, while Lemon claimed he simply covered the event as a journalist with no prior knowledge of its specific target.
Key Facts
Don Lemon reported on an anti-ICE protest at a church in St. Paul, Minnesota.
The protest was aimed at Pastor David Easterwood, who is allegedly linked to ICE operations.
Protesters chanted against ICE and demanded justice for individuals they believe were mistreated.
The protest is part of ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement in Minnesota.
Lemon has faced threats and slurs online following his coverage.
Nicki Minaj criticized Lemon, demanding his arrest on social media.
Lemon responded, defending his role as a journalist and criticizing Minaj's comments.
Prince Harry and several other public figures are suing Associated Newspapers Limited, the publisher of the Daily Mail, for allegedly gathering information about them unlawfully. The lawsuit claims these actions violated their privacy over a 20-year span. Associated Newspapers denies the allegations, stating the information was obtained through legitimate means.
Key Facts
Prince Harry is one of seven claimants in a lawsuit against Associated Newspapers Limited.
The claimants accuse the publisher of breaking privacy laws by gathering information unlawfully.
The alleged privacy breaches reportedly occurred over a span of 20 years.
Other claimants include Sir Elton John, Liz Hurley, and Baroness Doreen Lawrence.
The claims involve accusations that journalists used private investigators to obtain personal information.
The Daily Mail denies these allegations, stating information was obtained legally.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the UK's Conservative Party, has warned party members against internal conflicts after two members left to join a rival party, Reform UK. Badenoch emphasized the importance of unity and urged Conservative MPs to focus on their responsibilities rather than personal ambitions. She also noted that these defections are not a major issue for the party and criticized the motivations behind them.
Key Facts
Kemi Badenoch is the leader of the UK Conservative Party.
Two Conservative MPs, Robert Jenrick and Andrew Rosindell, defected to a rival party, Reform UK.
Jenrick was removed from his position before moving to Reform UK.
Nigel Farage, Reform UK's leader, encourages more defections before the May elections.
Badenoch stated that the party should avoid "psychodrama" and focus on unity and effectiveness.
She warned MPs about individuals within the party undermining it for personal gain.
Badenoch dismissed the idea that the party should move to the political center.
She criticized the political motivations of those who left the party.
Three U.S. Catholic cardinals asked President Trump's administration to consider moral principles in its foreign policy decisions. They expressed concerns about U.S. actions in Venezuela, potential plans for Greenland, and cuts to foreign aid. The cardinals emphasized the need for policies that respect human dignity and peace.
Key Facts
Three Catholic cardinals from the U.S. have urged President Trump's administration to follow a moral guide in foreign policy.
The cardinals raised concerns about U.S. military actions in Venezuela and discussions about acquiring Greenland.
They criticized the reduction of foreign aid, saying it can lead to more suffering instead of promoting peace.
The statement also highlighted the importance of upholding human dignity and religious freedom globally.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops supported the cardinals' emphasis on these issues.
The White House did not immediately comment on the cardinals' statement.
This is the second time in recent months that U.S. Catholic leaders have openly criticized the administration's policies.
Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani, commonly known as Valentino, passed away at 93 years old. He died peacefully at his home in Rome, and his funeral will be at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs.
Key Facts
Valentino was a famous Italian fashion designer.
He died at the age of 93.
Valentino passed away peacefully at his home in Rome.
The Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation announced his death on Instagram.
Valentino will be lying in state at Piazza Mignanelli on January 21 and 22.
The funeral will be held at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs.
Valentino was a well-known name in the fashion industry.
Craig Guildford, the former chief constable of West Midlands Police, has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for possible gross misconduct. This referral follows his resignation after admitting to providing incorrect information about a report related to a fan ban from a football match. The referral was made by Simon Foster, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner.
Key Facts
Craig Guildford, former chief constable of West Midlands Police, has been referred to the IOPC.
He faced scrutiny after admitting he provided incorrect evidence to Members of Parliament.
The issue involved a ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending a match with Aston Villa.
Guildford retired citing a "political and media frenzy" as influencing his decision.
The referral for possible gross misconduct was made by Simon Foster, the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner.
Simon Foster faced criticism for not dismissing Guildford earlier.
The controversy impacted public trust and community confidence, according to Foster.
Stephen Silverman and Gideon Falter from the Campaign Against Antisemitism criticized Foster's handling of the situation.
Indian composer AR Rahman faced criticism online after he mentioned in an interview that he might have lost work in Bollywood due to religious bias. Right-wing voices accused him of defaming India, while Rahman later clarified his statements, expressing gratitude to the country. This situation highlights the challenges faced by Muslim public figures in India amid increasing religious intolerance.
Key Facts
AR Rahman is a famous Indian composer known for winning Oscars, Grammys, and a Golden Globe.
He stated in an interview that he might have missed work opportunities in Bollywood because of religious bias.
The interview led to negative reactions online, primarily from Hindu right-wing voices.
Critics accused Rahman of defaming India and demanded an apology.
Rahman clarified his statements on social media, expressing his gratitude to India.
The controversy occurred during a time of rising religious intolerance in India.
This situation reflects broader challenges faced by Muslims in India.
Bulgaria's President Rumen Radev announced that he plans to resign from his position. This decision comes amid ongoing political challenges in the country and speculation that Radev may start a new political party.
Key Facts
President Rumen Radev of Bulgaria announced his intent to resign on a Monday.
Radev will officially submit his resignation to Bulgaria's Constitutional Court.
Iliana Yotova, the vice president, will take over as president until the end of the current mandate.
Radev's resignation is the first by a Bulgarian head of state since the fall of communism.
Bulgaria is experiencing a political crisis, with repeated elections and failed attempts to form a new government.
Radev's current term as president was set to end in 2026.
He has criticized GERB party leader Boyko Borissov and politician Delyan Peevski.
There is speculation that Radev might form a new political party.
Russia is reacting positively to President Trump's interest in taking control of Greenland. Russian media criticize European leaders for opposing Trump's plan, suggesting it weakens Western alliances. Moscow sees these tensions as beneficial for Russia.
Key Facts
President Trump has expressed a desire for the U.S. to control Greenland, citing military concerns.
Russian media praise Trump and criticize European countries like Denmark, the UK, and France for opposing his Greenland plans.
Russia believes that U.S. actions over Greenland could weaken America's ties with Europe and within NATO.
Moscow perceives any strain on the Western alliance as advantageous for Russia.
Russian commentators use U.S. plans for Greenland to justify Russia's actions in Ukraine.
The Russian government expresses concern that backing down over Greenland could hurt the Republican Party in upcoming U.S. elections.
Russia hopes maintaining good relations with the Trump administration will support its goals in Ukraine.
The resignation of the UK’s West Midlands police chief, partly due to pressure from pro-Israel groups after banning Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from a match in Birmingham, raises concerns about political influence on policing in the UK. The ban was originally based on safety assessments following previous incidents of violence. Critics worry that political pressure is affecting independent policing decisions.
Key Facts
Craig Guildford, the police chief of West Midlands Police, resigned under political pressure.
He had banned Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending a match in Birmingham in 2024, citing safety risks.
The ban was approved by the Birmingham City Council’s Safety Advisory Group.
The decision faced criticism and was called “anti-Semitic” in some media outlets.
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed a lack of confidence in Guildford after the ban's handling was criticized by a police watchdog.
Critics argue that Guildford's resignation shows political influence over independent policing.
Past events in Amsterdam with Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters contributed to the high-risk classification of the Birmingham match.
Observers are concerned about this setting a precedent for future police decisions involving political sensitivity.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is carefully avoiding public disputes with President Donald Trump, especially regarding Trump's plan to impose tariffs over Greenland. The UK aims for calm discussion while maintaining its principles, despite differing views in the EU on how to react.
Key Facts
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is trying to avoid public disagreements with the White House.
President Trump has proposed tariffs on European countries that don't support his Greenland plan.
The UK is focusing on calm discussions and maintaining its core principles.
Some EU countries, like France, are responding more aggressively to the tariff threat.
The UK and EU might have different approaches to resolving this issue.
Starmer might not attend the World Economic Forum, where President Trump will be present.
EU leaders may gather in Brussels to discuss a unified response to the tariffs.
President Donald Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are representing the U.S. at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. They aim to showcase America's economic power and highlight U.S. economic policies with a focus on growth and trade. Bessent plans to discuss topics like home ownership and economic strength, contrasting U.S. progress with European economic issues.
Key Facts
President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are attending the World Economic Forum in Davos.
The U.S. delegation plans to focus on economic growth and strong American trade policies.
Bessent will hold daily press conferences with themes like "America First Trade."
The administration's message includes confidence in the U.S. economy and a critique of European economic challenges.
Bessent warns Europe against retaliation over U.S. moves concerning Greenland.
President Trump's address will cover domestic economic topics, including housing.
The administration plans to engage directly with the American public and investors, bypassing some traditional media outlets.
Real America's Voice News will heavily cover U.S. activities at Davos.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticized President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza. Smotrich believes the plan is not good for Israel and wants the U.S.-led center that monitors the Gaza ceasefire to be shut down.
Key Facts
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich spoke against President Trump's plan for Gaza.
Smotrich described the plan as bad for Israel.
He suggested that the plan should be stopped.
Smotrich wants the closure of the Civil Military Coordination Centre in Kiryat Gat.
This center is involved in overseeing the ceasefire in Gaza.
The issue involves discussions between Israel and the United States.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that a trade war is not beneficial after President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 10% tax on imports from the UK and other countries due to his interest in Greenland. Sir Keir emphasized resolving issues through calm talks and noted the importance of the UK-US relationship. European leaders plan to discuss Greenland with President Trump during his visit to the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Key Facts
President Trump threatened a 10% tax on imports from the UK and some other countries.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer believes a trade war helps no one.
Sir Keir urged calm discussions instead of tariffs to solve differences.
European leaders will talk about Greenland with President Trump at the Davos forum.
The US views Greenland as strategically important for security and resources.
President Trump suggested purchasing Greenland, citing security reasons.
A small European military group, including the UK, visited Greenland for a reconnaissance mission.
Ghana has arrested nine Nigerians suspected of running cyber-crime networks in the capital, Accra. Authorities also detained 44 people thought to be victims who were brought from Nigeria under false claims of jobs. The operation uncovered numerous electronic devices used in these scams.
Key Facts
Nine Nigerians were arrested in Ghana for alleged cyber-crime activities in Accra.
Authorities found 62 laptops, 52 mobile phones, and two guns during the operation.
44 people believed to be victims were also detained and given to immigration officials.
Suspected criminals lure people to Ghana with fake job offers and force them into cyber-crime.
Typical scams include romance frauds and fake business emails to steal money.
The operation was led by multiple agencies, including the Cyber Security Authority.
Communications Minister Sam George advised foreign nationals to verify job offers in Ghana.
Collaborations with US authorities have led to additional arrests and the dismantling of crime networks.
Three U.S. Catholic cardinals publicly criticized President Donald Trump's foreign policy, urging it to follow moral values. They expressed concerns over recent military actions in Venezuela, threats to acquire Greenland, and cuts in foreign aid, warning these actions could lead to suffering instead of peace. This marks the second time in two months that Catholic leaders have challenged the administration's policies.
Key Facts
Three U.S. Catholic cardinals issued a statement on Trump’s foreign policy.
They criticized military actions in Venezuela, Greenland acquisition threats, and foreign aid cuts.
The cardinals want foreign policy to focus on human life, religious freedom, and dignity.
They referred to Pope Leo XIV’s address against using force for global control.
This is the second public challenge by Catholic leaders against Trump’s policies in two months.
Previously, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops condemned mass deportation efforts.
Weather experts warned over a million people in Pennsylvania about dangerous travel conditions due to snow squalls. These quick and intense snow events can cause white-out conditions and icy roads, making driving hazardous.
Key Facts
More than 1 million people in Pennsylvania received a travel warning due to snow squalls.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warned of "difficult" and "dangerous" travel conditions.
Snow squalls can create sudden white-out conditions and icy roads within minutes.
These conditions are caused by strong winds and quickly falling temperatures.
Warnings were issued for roads including Interstates 70, 80, 79, 376, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Snow squalls typically last less than an hour but can have serious impacts on travel and safety.
The weather system was moving eastward, affecting different regions of Pennsylvania at different times.
People in the area were advised to delay travel or exit highways safely before the snow squalls hit.
The Syrian government has reached a ceasefire agreement with the Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to unify the country after years of civil war. Despite the agreement, fighting continues in some areas. The deal includes the Syrian government taking control of certain regions and integrating the SDF into its ministries.
Key Facts
Syria’s government and the Kurdish-led SDF agreed on a ceasefire to help unify the country.
The Syrian Army will take over control of three provinces: Raqqa, Deir Az Zor, and Hasakah.
The deal includes integrating the SDF into Syria’s defense and interior ministries.
Fighting continues in some areas, especially near a prison in al-Shadadi.
The Syrian government recognized Kurdish as a national language and gave official recognition to the Kurdish people.
Kurds are spread across several countries in the Middle East and do not have a state of their own.
There are between 30 and 40 million Kurds worldwide, making them the largest stateless ethnic group.
Historical treaties failed to establish a self-governing Kurdistan, leaving Kurds without an independent homeland.
A fire at a shopping center in Karachi, Pakistan, resulted in 23 confirmed deaths and many more people still missing. The fire started in the multistory building and took nearly a day to extinguish. Efforts are ongoing to identify bodies and search for those unaccounted for.
Key Facts
A fire at a Karachi shopping plaza killed at least 23 people.
The fire took nearly 24 hours to extinguish, and rescuers found more bodies once it was out.
Authorities are searching for 46 missing people.
Six bodies are identified; others need DNA testing because they are unrecognizable.
Relatives of the missing are providing DNA samples to help identify bodies.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown and under investigation.
The Sindh provincial government will give compensation to the families of the deceased.
Karachi has experienced deadly fires before, often due to poor safety and illegal construction.
