OPINION COMMENTARY:

Drawing on decades of social justice leadership, Peter Williams ALI ‘21 examines the enduring relevance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” in 2026. From voting rights restrictions to widening inequity, he argues that American democracy faces a defining moral crossroads demanding urgent action.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

As climate impacts intensify, public access to reliable climate information is being quietly restricted. The removal of National Climate Assessments from federal websites undermines informed decision-making. This article argues that state and local governments must step in to widely disseminate this critical data and keep it accessible to the public.

Antibiotic resistance is a worsening global crisis, and livestock production plays a key role. Indiscriminate antibiotic use in animal agriculture fuels bacteria resistant to human medicines, threatening health and food systems, especially in low-income communities. With Tom Mahoney ALI ’24, Dr. Aleks Engel of Novo Holdings examines impacts and urgent solutions to safeguard people and the planet.

Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP, shares insights on aging, equity, and purpose amid a historic demographic shift. In conversation with ALI Fellows Terry Edmonds ’21 and Mary Jo Meisner ’17, she explores the longevity economy, ageism, Social Security, and the role of policy, business, and communities in ensuring dignity and opportunity at every stage of life.

False information spreads faster than truth on social media, and newsrooms across America continue to shutter at an alarming rate. Yet citizens aren’t helpless in democracy’s information crisis. By curating deliberate media diets, supporting local journalism, and advocating for anti-SLAPP protections, individuals hold real power to resist forces fracturing our shared reality.

Former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick reflects on leadership, equity, and rebuilding trust in America. In this powerful conversation with ALI Fellows Kevin Robinson ‘22 and Mary Jo Meisner ‘17, he shares lessons on race, gender equity, DEI, and civic renewal — reminding us that the American Dream thrives when communities act together.

As global supply chains face growing scrutiny, the textile sector is shifting toward greater responsibility. Vaude, a German outdoor company, is leading the way. Matthias Bosch (ALI ’23) speaks with CEO Antje von Dewitz on transforming supply chains and redefining responsible entrepreneurship.

As the world neglects the continuing threat of mpox, in West Africa the crisis remains severe. Sierra Leone recently reversed its surge of cases, but outbreaks have swept into other African countries. Fortunately, new digital tools give community leaders a fighting chance. Tom Mahoney (ALI ’24) interviews Dr. Pardis Sabeti and Colby Wilkason on turning science into grassroots action.