Wise Monkey News is here to provide young people an opportunity to discuss the issues that affect their lives. We hope that, through your participation, this website serves as a forum for the development, exchange, and expression of ideas that will prepare us to assume our positions as the leaders of tomorrow's world. Have something to say?
What Role does the U.S. play in the world?
by: Hank Smith - printed on 09-11-2002
I remember a conversation I once had with a fellow American and a Swede. We were discussing movies, and the Swede mentioned that his favorite film was from the United States - American Beauty. Another American I was with could not believe it.
Children of Abraham Need to Return to Common Faith
by: Fr. Gary Ruzicka - printed on 11-03-2000
The situation in the Holy Lands is sad because all of the people involved consider themselves the Children of Abraham. Each considers Abraham their “Father in Faith.” As tragic as it may be, religion is the source of the conflict. For Israel, the sign of being chosen as the Children of Abraham is the sign of the Land. Therefore they cannot relinquish it. The solution to the whole problem might be to return to that common heritage as “Children of Abraham” and concentrate on what they have in common.
Umatilla: A call for Congressional investigation
by: Jim McCandlish, J.D. - printed on 04-25-2001
A recent lead editorial in the Oregonian calls for an independent investigation of chemical agent leaks at the Umatilla Chemical Depot. This follows the Oregonian’s lengthy commentary piece which found the Army’s explanation of the September 15, 1999 exposure incident to be misleading and inadequate. Over eight months ago, Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.) asked the U.S. Department of Defense to conduct such an investigation.
Corrupt Politicians Ruining Indians’ Freedom
by: Kunal Nayyar - printed on 11-15-2000
My native country is India. I take great pride in being an Indian. The British ruled India for more than 200 years and it was not until 50 years ago that we got our independence. Mahatma Gandhi, Mahatma means great spirit, was one man who was supported by the poor and lower class people of India. With their support he drove out the British and brought India freedom. He alone, without any violence, without lifting a finger made the British leave.
Corporate world different from reservation
by: Stephanie Nichols - printed on 02-14-2001
I walk to the “bus barn” and hear the snow crunch beneath my feet. As the cold crisp South Dakota air touches my face, I feel alive and ready to begin the day. After fifteen minutes of warming up the school bus, I embark on my route, which will bring 65 children to school in one of the most remotely isolated places in the country, the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. As I make my way across the reservation, the rising sun glistens off the morning frost that blankets these beautiful hills, and once again, I’m reminded that I’m privileged to be here.
Defining the Environmental Goal
by: Meghan Molenda - printed on 01-23-2002
As I passed the curb and saw the rejected bins of recycling that sat in front of my house, I had to think for a moment about what it actually means for me to be an environmentalist.
I get the label all the time especially on trips back to my hometown, but it is one of those labels that has harsh connotations.
Most people are kind of weary using the word "environmentalist" because it has a particular stigma based on an entire set of beliefs, values, and political stances that go along with that word.