Joanna Macy: Climate Crisis as a Spiritual Path

Old Dog Documentaries has posted on Vimeothis twenty-minute interview with Joanna Macy. Quoting from Rilke, Macy talks about living life in "the wideni

Remembering Hinmatóowyalahtqit (Chief Joseph)

On this date in 1877, Hinmatóowyalahtqit (Chief Joseph) surrendered to the United States Cavalry. "I have asked some of the great white chiefs where th

Stories to Tell

New books by Tarana Burke and Dave Zirin; Leah Penniman featured in new anthology.

Publishing anniversary of Silent Spring

Rachel Carson’s groundbreaking book Silent Spring was published on this date in 1962. “If the Bill of Rights contains no guarantee that a citizen shall

Portraits of Racial Justice Launch!

New Village Press releases artist Robert Shetterly's book Portraits of Racial Justice on September 19, 2021.  

How female activists in the U.S. are rescuing Afghan women — or trying to

Read about how Oklahoman Allyson Reneau, Katherine Spillar of the Feminist Majority Foundation, and other advocates are trying to rescue women from Afghan

Letters from an American: The Social Security Act of 1935 and Frances Perkins

On this day in 1935, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law. ...

Art as Protest: Maine Artists Discuss the Role of Artists Who Use Their Work for Activism

"There is a long history of fine artists using their work as a form of protest against injustice and war—think Picasso's Guernica or Diego Rivera's fresco

Winona LaDuke Feels That President Biden Has Betrayed Native Americans

"Right now in northern Minnesota, the Canadian oil-and-gas-transport company Enbridge is building an expansion of a pipeline, Line 3, to carry oil through

Wendell Berry's Birthday

While celebrating the 87th birthdayof Wendell Berry today, we ran across this earnestreview of Berry's book Jayber Crow - published recently in The Perqui

Remembering Those Lost During Freedom Summer 1964

It was on this day in 1964 that the bodies of three murdered civil rights workers, James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner, were found in an e

The Quiet Courage of Bob Moses

Moses entered the darkest places in the country with the light of an idea.

Anniversary of the Seneca Falls Convention

It’s the anniversary of the first women’s rights conference in history, organized in Seneca Falls, New York, in 1848.

Ida B. Wells Birthday Celebrated

Ida B. Wells' 159th birthday was celebrated in Downtown Memphis this year, with a parade and the unveiling of her life-size bronze statue. 

MacArthur Fellows Program Celebrates 40 Years with Chicago Art Exhibition

The MacArthur Fellows Program is celebrating 40 years ofcommitment to recognizing extraordinarily creative individuals and highlighting the various ways r

Still Fighting for Voting Rights in 2021

With two key voting rights bills stalled in the U.S. Senate, a July U.S.

Indigenous and Environmental Activists Continue Fight Against Line 3

"Indigenous and environmental activistsfighting against the Line 3 tar sands pipeline were outraged Thursday after the Biden administration filed a legal

5 UC Berkeley experts pick Library materials to help us reflect on Juneteenth

"In 1852, Frederick Douglass asked us to define what freedom is to a Black American. "As we revisit his call to action, topics such as critical race th

Celebrating Pride Month!

SupergirlsuperstarNicole Maines says that she is missing the Los Angeles Pride Parade again this year due to COVID.

Nikki Giovanni at 78

Checking in on Nikki Giovanni today - as she completes another trip around the sun.

Bill Moyers and Covering Climate Now

We honor Bill Moyers on his 87th birthday by running this excerpt from the recent story byMark Hertsgaard and Kyle Pope, the co-founders of Covering Clima

Southern Cayuga Conversations: Truthful Americans still inspire students

This is a follow up to our May 21 story about the AWTT-inspired curriculum project at Southern Cayuga Central School in Auburn, NY. In this report, tea

Rachel Carson for Kids

The educational website SCARCE celebrates the memory of Rachel Carson on her birthday (born May 27, 1907) by sharing youth-friendly resources for kids, in

Southern Cayuga Conversations: Americans who tell the truth

Educator Elaine Meyers reports on her AWTT project at Southern Cayuga Central School in Auburn, New York. 

Sandra Steingraber named senior scientist at the Science and Environmental Health Network

Two leading organizations of health professionals and scientists focused on environmental harms, Concerned Health Professionals of New York (CHPNY) and th

The Tenacious Tarana Burke

The reach of activist Tarana Burke's intensive work - at the intersection of racial justice, antiviolence and gender equality  - is expanding exponentiall

Diane Wilson Hunger Strike: Update

According to an April 27 press release from Earthworks, Diane Wilson's hunger strike has entered its 20th day.

Earth Day screening of Youth v Gov

Utah Film Center hosts virtual screening of Youth v Gov at 7 p.m. on Earth Day 2021.

Catching up with Bryan Stevenson

Bryan Stevenson, Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center

Diane Wilson: Stop the Matagorda Ship Channel Dredging Project

What: Stop the Matagorda Ship Channel Dredging Project Webinar with Diane Wilson and Ann Wright When: Saturday, April 17, 2021 4 PM PT/6 PM CT/7 PM ET

Honoring the Memory of Ramsey Clark

Former U.S. attorney general and longtime human rights lawyer Ramsey Clark has died at the age of 93. 

Biden’s Announcement That Trump Got Military Spending Just Right Is Dead Wrong

Activist journalist David Swansonreminds us that, amidst a pandemic and headlines of social and economic reforms, the military industrial complex grinds f

Indigenous People & Climate Impacts: How Tribal Communities Are Affected by Climate Change

Sherri Mitchell joins host Jennifer Rooks and researcherNatalie Michelle on the radio show "Maine Calling" to discuss climate impacts on indigenous people

Virginia Supreme Court clears the way for Charlottesville to take down statue of Robert E. Lee

The Supreme Court of Virginia has cleared the way for the city of Charlottesville to take down the statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee ... .

Ai-Jen Poo Addresses Equal Pay for Women in U.S. House Hearing

AWTT portrait subject Ai-Jen Poo was among those who testified today before the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform.

Americans Who Tell the Truth on NWP Radio

Join National Writing Project Radio for a conversation with AWTT artistand founder Rob Shetterly and education directorConnieCarter.

Celebrating International Women's Day

Here's a fun graphic essay by cartoonist Eleri Harris depicting some highlights in the history of International Women's Day. And since it all started w

News Center Maine's Interview with AWTT artist Robert Shetterly

The best thing Robert Shetterly does is paint.

W.E.B. Du Bois Remembered

On this day in 1868, William Edward Burghardt Du Bois - scholar, writer, editor, and civil rights pioneer - was born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts.

Interview with Claudette Colvin

In this rare interview with CNN's Abby Phillip,  Claudette Colvin, now 81, explains why she believes many female activists were overlooked in histories of

Clyde Kennard: The Unheard Word Reprised

Clyde Kennard's story - of his persistent attempts to enter the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) in the 1950's  - is one of the lesser known stori

Ballad of an American: a Graphic Biography of Paul Robeson

Get a sneak peak of Sharon Rudahl's new graphic biography of  singer, writer, civil rights activist Paul Robeson in Yes! Magazine. 

Pauli Murray and Black Trans Rights Shine at Sundance

Who is Pauli Murray?

The Important Political History of Black History Month

Originally founded in 1926 as Negro History Week by the famed educator and groundbreaking historian Carter G.

Environmental activists respond to Biden executive orders

As the new administration takes more steps to address theclimate crisis, we have checked in on responses from some AWTTtruth tellers. Bill McKibbonwass

Black Lives Matter movement nominated for Nobel peace prize

"In nominating Black Lives Matters for the Nobel Peace Prize, Norwegian MP Petter Eidecited precedents of the Oslo-based Nobel prize committee recognising

Remembering Dr. King

Reflecting on Marc Lamont Hill’s statement: “Today, let us remember Martin Luther King as he was: a Black radical anti-capitalist, anti-imperialist, revol

Land Ethic: Aldo Leopold

Today we reflect on the wisdom of Aldo Leopold, born on this day in 1887 - ahead of his time. As we are becoming increasingly aware, the eradication of

Congratulations to Kristina Borjesson

Progressive Radio Network has given The Whistleblower Newsroom an award for outstanding programming in the investigative reporting category. 

Sherri Mitchell: The Search for Why

Penobscot Nation activist Sherri Mitchell's essay "Theory of Natural Connection" appears alongside her AWTT portrait in Pop-Up Magazine's year-end special

Virginia Commission Selects Barbara Rose Johns to Represent Virginia in U.S. Capitol

Virginia's Commission on Historical Statues in the United States Capitol has voted to recommend civil rights icon Barbara Rose Johns to represent Virginia

Deqa Dahlac Re-elected to South Portland, Maine City Council

AWTT honors not onlyhigh profile people who are changing the world on a global scale.

Bill McKibben: Where We Stand on Climate

On his 60th birthday, Bill McKibben takes stock. "I've been writing this column for almost a year now, trying to shine a light on many of the climate c

Wild and Awake: Shetterly interview with Kari Van Tine

AWTT artist Robert Shetterly joins twenty other innovative thinkers and truth tellers in a free virtual retreat Wild &Awake. Shetterly's interview

Maine students make art for climate action

The eighth grade art students  of Cynthia Pease on the downeast island of Deer Isle, Maine created a beautiful collection of climate-themed paintings. The

Voter turnout a perfect birthday gift for Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Voting in 2020 is over, but we have a few more months to celebrate the 100th anniversary of woman suffrage.

Remembering Dwight D. Eisenhower on Veterans Day

It was in October 1954 that President Eisenhower declared November 11th as a national holiday to honor U.S. Veterans

Dorothy Day Truths Resound Today

American activist Dorothy Day was born on this day in 1897.

Celebrating Eugene Debs and Ida Tarbell

Two important birthdays today for members of the AWTT portrait gallery: Eugene Debs (1855) and Ida Tarbell (1857). It wasEugene V.

Voting Day 2020

Today we reflect on the long line of truth-tellers - some famous, some not - who have fought to expand voting rights in this country. 

Activist for Georgia’s homeless and death-row inmates dies

ATLANTA — Murphy Davis, a determined advocate for death row inmates and homeless people in Georgia, died on Thursday of complications related to cancer.

It is truly all about respect

"There is power in unity. When tribal nations are seen as sovereign bodies we can work together toward a better relationship with other governments.

Rest in Power, Kevin Zeese (1955 - 2020)

Activist Kevin Zeese's partner Margaret Flowers has writtena short tribute to her late husband, re-published byCommon Dreams. "Kevin fought to bring tr

Marian Wright Edelman Steps Down, and a New Generation Takes Over

Marian Wright Edelman, 81, took to the streets this summer, joining millions of people around the country in protesting police brutality after the killing

Ida B. Wells Honored by Union Station Mosaic

Union Station, Washington, D.C. August 24-28, 2020 "Anna Laymon, Women's Suffrage Centennial CommissionExecutive Director, toldCNN, 'What we are able

New Post Cards in Stock: Order today!

We are pleased to announce that we now have in stock postcard-sized reprints of some favorite AWWT portraits: Civil rights leaderJohn Lewis Worker adv

For Three Suffragists, a Monument Well Past Due

Across the country, monuments honoring racist figures are being defaced and toppled.

How not to lose the lockdown generation

Naomi Klein reflects on how New Deal era projects - including the National Youth Administration's "little huts" project for tuberculosis quarantine - coul

Stephen Ritz: Feeding the Bronx during a Pandemic

This short video from CNN features AWTT portrait subject Stephen Ritz, whose contagious energy continues to help feed the Bronx. View video here

Remembering Mother Jones

Although the birth date of Mary Harris Jones is disputed, many have adopted the date of her baptism (Cork, Ireland; August 1, 1837)to celebrate her birthd

John Lewis 1940-2020

We cannot express the depth of our gratitude to John Lewis.

Remembering Woody Guthrie on his birthday

Today is the birthday of Woodrow Wilson, aka "Woody" Guthrie, born in Okemah, Oklahoma (1912).

What To The Slave Is The Fourth Of July?

The U.S. celebrates this Independence Day amid nationwide protests and calls for systemic reforms.

Climate Justice is Racial Justice, Racial Justice is Climate Justice

Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr.

Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II: The Only Way We Make It Through Is Together

As a leading voice forthe Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival,Rev. Dr. William J.

Samantha Smith Challenge Update

The 5th graders at St. John Catholic School refused to be deterred by the coronovirus or by cancellation of the 2020 Samnatha Smith Challenge Day.

Michelle Alexander: America, This Is Your Chance

"We must get it right this time or risk losing our democracy forever." “Denial may be neither a matter of telling the truth nor intentionally telling a

Trevor Noah: The Looting of Black Bodies

Thank you, Trevor Noah, for speaking the truth. In this June 1 episode of The Daily Distancing Show, "Trevor shares his thoughts on the killing of Geor

Walt Whitman born on this day

It's the 201st birthday of Walt Whitman, born on this day in 1819 at West Hills, Long Island, New York. Whitman wrote in his preface to Leaves of Grass

Celebrating 95th birthday of Malcolm X

Tuesday (May 19) marks the 95th anniversary ofMalcolm X’s birth.

Speaking Truth to Youth

View new short videos: Speaking Truth to Youth

Dr. Mona: I’m Sick of Asking Children to Be Resilient

Don't miss Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha's 5/12/20 New York Times op ed:  I’m Sick of Asking Children to Be Resilient

Naomi Klein: Only a crisis produces real change

Checking in on Naomi Klein as she turns 50 this week. She's been busy.

May Day Heroes

As frontline workers are calling for May Day strikes - still seekingbasic protections - we honor all of those who have fought for workers in the past: Woo

Earth Day #50

Browsing through the AWTT portrait gallery this morning, we're finding 47 images of earth champions.

John Muir and Earth Day

On the eve of Earth Day, we celebratethe birthday of John Muir, who was born on this day in 1838. "The battle we have fought, and are still fighting fo

One Earth, One Chance: Charlotteville Discussion

We were thrilled to bring together these truth tellers during our Charlottesville exhibit (Jan.-March 2020). Featuring: Sherri Mitchell, Kelsey Juliana, D

Maulian Dana receives award for tribal justice and advocacy

"...This year, the 35-year-old activist [Maulian Dana] — who became the first-ever Penobscot Nation Ambassador in 2017 — was named a recipient of the Mary

Rev. Dr. Barber: Viral Lessons

Chomsky: Ventilator Shortage Exposes the Cruelty of Neoliberal Capitalism

"...But scientific understanding is not enough. There has to be someone to pick up the ball and run with it.

Cesar Chavez on government responsibility

Revisiting the wisdom of Cesar Chavez today: “History will judge societies and governments — and their institutions — not by how big they are or how we

Anniversary of Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire

Thanks for The Writer's Almanacfor reminding us that the New York’sTriangle Shirtwaist Factoryburned down on this date (March 25) in 1911.

Remembering and Honoring Rachel Corrie

April 10, 1979 (Olympia, Washington) ~ March 16, 2003 (Rafah, Gaza Strip) Thirty years ago, when Rachel Corrie was 10 years old, she held a press confe

Getting real: CHS students join Robert Shetterly in truth-teller exhibition

More news from Charlottesville! "Art students at Charlottesville High School were asked to create their own portraits of figures they regard as truth-t

New season of "Dirty Money" to examine Formosa's role in Point Comfort

"Formosa’s Point Comfort facility is the subject of a documentary in the new season of Netflix’s “Dirty Money,” premiering worldwide [on March 11, 2020].

Zyahna Bryant joins “Americans Who Tell the Truth” portrait gallery

Unless you’ve beenliving off the grid (or indenial) you know the story: In spring 2016, Zyahna Bryant wrote an open letter to City Council, calling for th

Dorothy Day in the Spotlight

Dorothy Dayhas captured some headlines this week. First a new biography: "With Dorothy Day: Dissenting Voice of the American Century,John Loughery a

20th Anniversary of Granny D Walk for Campaign Finance Reform

Doris “Granny D” Haddock (1910 – 2010) walked across the United States in support of campaign finance reform.

Robert Shetterly in Charlottesville

In conjunction with several AWTT ongoing exhibits in Charlottesville, Robert Shetterly will visit the city this week for somespecial events.

Susan B. Anthony 200th Birthday

Thanks toThe Writer's Almanac, Saturday, February 15, 2020 edition, for this tribute to SusanB. Anthony on her birthday. "It’s the birthdayofSusan B.

Austin Jewish Community Takes Stand for Refugees

Civil rights attorney Jennifer Harbury was among the speakers at a rally in Austin this month. "Members of the groupHIAS, the global nonprofit protecti

Ten Years After Howard Zinn’s Death — Lessons from the People’s Historian

On the tenth anniversary of Howard Zinn's death, educator Bill Bigelow reflects on why Zinn's messages still resonate today. "It’s always worth dipping

New video profile of Grace Lee Boggs - inspired by kids!

Performance artist Kristina Wong and the kids of Radical Cram School have created a video about the life of activistGrace Lee Boggs...in their own words.

David Rovics releases new album of original songs

Singer song-writer David Rovics has announced the release of his new album Strangers & Friends. "The Ongoing History of Protest Music" reviews the

Emily Bazelon touts AWTT posters as great gifts for kids

In the most recent edition of Slate's Political Gabfest, Emily Bazelon recommended AWWT posters as great inspirational gifts for kids. "So one of the s

An Open Letter to John Lewis

Fellow Alabamian Margaret Renkl honors John Lewis in her recentNew York Times opinion piece. "From a sharecropper’s shack outside Troy, Ala., where as

Bronx Green Machine goes international

Catching up with wild man StephenRitz today. So much has happened with Green Bronx Machine since his AWTT portrait was unveiled.

Frances Moore Lappé changed how we eat. She wants to do the same for our democracy.

David Marchese interviews Frances MooreLappé about the preservation of democracy. “I want to shift people away from thinking: Democracy, that’s for som

The Courage of Truth Tellers

AWTT portrait subjects Chelsea Manning, Coleen Rowley and Jesselyn Radack all have December birthdays, giving us the opportunity to reflect on their coura

Bree Newsome Bass: More on the Confederate Flag

In his Sunday NYT column, Charles Blow calls on Bree Newsome Bass to respond to Nikki Haley's revisionist history concerning the Confederate flag.  "Ba

Diane Wilson Wins $50 Million Judgement Against Plastics Giant Formosa

Environmental activist Diane Wilson on Tuesday celebrated the approval of a settlement with plastics giant Formosa Plastics Corp.

Pauli Murray and Robert Kennedy born on this day

Today we celebrate and honor Pauli Murray and Robert F. Kennedy who were born on this day in 1910 and 1925 respectively.

Honoring America's Veterans

On Veterans Day we remember thosewho have served our country through military service, including these AWTT portrait subjects: Dwight D.

Dr. Paul Farmer still a readers' favorite on 60th birthday

As Paul Farmer turns 60 on Saturday, November 26, he is making news in the publishing world. The University of California Press is releasing this month

Glide Memorial Church Celebrates 90th Birthday Of Founder Rev. Williams

The congregation at Glide Memorial Methodist Church, a ray of hope in the Tenderloin District for over 50 years, wished the church’s founder a very specia

Remembering Frances Crowe

As we mourn the loss of peaceactivist Frances Crowe, we need also to remember her wit and wisdom.

Labor Day Champions

Labor Day. End of summer. Family gatherings. Picnics. County fairs.

AWTT 18-Month Calendar Now Available for Purchase

We are excited to announce AWTT's first calendar - featuring Robert Shetterly portraits of 18 inspiring change makers.

From "Ghetto Life 101" to Senator? An Interview With LeAlan Jones

NBC 5 Chicago interviews LeAlan Jones about his run for the Senate as theGreen Party nominee. "LeAlan Jones has always been precocious. At 11, he wa

Santa Monica Exhibit, Films Challenge View of California Coast

"There is science, logic, reason; there is thought verified by experience," environmentalist writer Edward Abbey once said.

Human Rights Lawyer Jennifer Harbury on How Trump Is Punishing Cartels’ Victims—Not Their Members

Amy Goodman interviews human rights lawyerJennifer Harbury about how our government's "zero tolerence" policy is punishing people who are fleeing crime in

Dance concert inspired by woman who was last arrested when she was 94 years old

As part of the month-long AWTTIpswichevent, choreographerJanet Taisey Craft, along with dancers Jessie Boudreau, Jenny Carlson, Danielle DiVito, and Tabit

2018-19 Samantha Smith Challenge: Another Successful Year

The 2018-19Samantha Smith Challenge saw over 300 Maine middle level students become engaged and active citizens.

Kids Suing the U.S. Government to Take Action Against Climate Change: It's a '911' Situation

They're on a roll. Less that a month after their big day in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, the power team landeda major spread in People magazine.

Eve Ensler: The Apology

May 14, 2019 - Eve Ensler's new book, The Apology, comes out today. "When Eve Ensler's father died, she knew the apology she had been waiting for her e

Juliana attorney joins author of Losing Earth at Powell's Books

Author Nathaniel Rich joins Juliana v. U.S. attorney Andrea Rodgers tonight, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. - a stop on Rich's Losing Earth book tour.

Climate Change Is 'Greatest Challenge Humans Have Ever Faced'

In case you missed Bill McKibben's April 16 interview on Fresh Air, it's worth a listen. His new book: Falter: Has the Human Game Begun to Play Itself

Eva Patterson: Still speaking out on racism and reparations

Eva Paterson testified on April 9, 2019 at the House Judiciary Committee Hearing on Hate Crimes, White Nationalism, and White Supremacy

Cruel Threats to Hungry Families and Children

Marian Wright Edelman, founder an president emerita, of the Children's Defense Fund, continues her fight for children - that they may lead healthy, safe l

Nuclear Age Peace Foundation Wages Peace Worldwide

Catch up on Paul Chappell's current work with the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation.

Peace Activist Frances Crowe Turns 100

The legendary peace activist Frances Crowe has turned 100. She was born on March 15, 1919.

Our Wounded Planet

Don't miss Robert Koehler's insightful essay on the juxtaposition of hate crimes and fighting for the planet. "...In the past few days,two young surviv

Auburn Middle School Students Engage!

Check out these Sun Journal photos ofRobert Shetterly's recent visit to the Auburn Middle School, where students are making podcasts on issues they care a

Can We Divest from Weapons Dealers?

Kathy Kelly, co-cordinator of Voices for Creative Nonviolence, tirelessly continues her call for divestment.

Majora Carter Slated as Keynote Speaker for Maine Land Conservation Conference

Maine Coast Heritage Trust has announced that Keynote Speaker for this year's Land Conservation Conference will be Majora Carter. The advance billing f

Youth Plaintiffs File Urgent Motion to Stop the U.S. Government From Causing Irreparable Climate Harm

Although the youth plaintiffs in federal court case Juliana v. U.S. lost a key procedural battle in late December, they are not slowing down.

Naomi Klein: On Fire

Our current climate crisis and the actions needed to be taken will be the focus of Canadian author and activist Naomi Klein’s next book, to be published b

Robert Shetterly Delivers Keynote Address at Symposium on Democracy

AWTT's Robert Shetterly will be the evening keynote speaker at Washington & Jefferson College's Symposium on Democracy. Shetterly's topic will be "

Mark Charles Delivers "We the People" Tedx Talk

The son of an American woman of Dutch heritage and a Navajo man, Mark Charles offers a unique perspective on three of the most misinterpreted words in Ame

Announcing Documentary Film about AWTT

Our Children’s Future: A Portrait of Robert Shetterly is a documentary film about this political artist and activist, who has created theportrait seriesAm

Time to Register for the Samantha Smith Challenge

Just two weeks left to register for this year's Samantha Smith Challenge! The Samantha Smith Challenge is a dynamic educational program for Maine middl

Van Jones, new CEO of REFORM Alliance, expands his criminal justice focus

The REFORM Alliance aims to dramatically reduce the number of people living under unreasonable probation and parole sentences, and in turn, free people fr

Oxfam Report: 26 Billionaires Own The Same Wealth As The Poorest 3.8 Billion People

The gap between rich and poor is fracturing society, poisoning politics and fueling public anger, according to a new report from anti-poverty nonprofit Ox

Time to Break the Silence on Palestine

Martin Luther King Jr. courageously spoke out about the Vietnam War.

Ai-jen Poo Shines Hollywood Spotlight on Domestic Workers

Ai-Jen Poo, the executive director of the National Domestic Workers Alliance, walked the Globes carpet for the second time Sunday with Alfonso Cuaron.

Lateefah Simon: a creative force in San Francisco

Catching up with Lateefah Simon: Serving on BART Board of Directors (20016-2020), she is pitching the idea of using retired transit cars for housing.

French Yellow Vests: What could it teach us about ourselves?

In a recent opinion piece, Frances Moore Lappe argues that most news coverage we are seeing about the Yellow Vest movement is missing some major points an

Dahr Jamail: The End of Ice

Freelance Journalist Frances Madeson interviews Dahr Jamail about his recent book: The End of Ice

David Korten's New Year's Resolution: From Me to We

We must move beyond the myth of the lone individual to recognize our deep interdependence and responsibilities for one another and nature.

Ninth Circuit Court Grants Government's Interlocutory Appeal in Juliana case

On December 26, in a 2-1 decision, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals granted defendants’ petition for permission to bring an interlocutory appeal in Juli

None of Us Deserve Citizenship

Don't miss Michelle Alexander's impassioned and powerful op-ed column in the 12/11 New York Times!

AWTT Exhibit at Syracuse University: Inspiration Squared

All of Robert Shetterly's 238 completed portraits in the Americans Who Tell the Truth project are on exhibit at Syracuse University through December 14th.

Climate Crisis Made Worse By Presidential Mis-Leadership Throughout This Century

Dr. Margaret Flowers, along with co-author Kevin Zeese, responds to recent Obama conversation at the Baker Institute.

The Black Feminist Roots of James Baldwin’s ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’

In his review of Barry Jenkins' new movie If Beale Street Could Talk, Elias Rodriques focuses on how Black Feminism was influencing James Baldwin's work i

Juliana Plaintiffs Back in Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals

On December 10, attorneys for the 21 young plaintiffs in the landmark constitutional climate lawsuit, Juliana v.

Audio: Bill McKibben on the climate movements that give him hope

In this 11/27/18 Mongabay newscast, Bill McKibben talks about where he finds hope in the current climate change landscape.

Rev. William J. Barber II named MacArthur Genius Fellow

When the MacArthur Foundation announced its 2018 Genius Fellows today, Dr. Rev Barber was among the chosen 25. AWWT congratulates Dr. Rev.

Trump Administration’s Desperation Grows as ​Juliana v. United States ​Trial Approaches

In a press release dated October 5, Our Chidlren's Trust reported that the Trump administration has filed another motion with the U.S.

Noam Chomsky at Age 90

Noam Chomsky will turn 90 in December. Here are a few highlights from his work this month (September):

Father Roy Bourgeois Continues to Speak Out Against an All-Male Clergy

Roy Bourgeois responds to recent disclosures about Pennsylvania priests:

Wendell Berry Farming Program revived by partnership with Sterling College

The Wendell Berry Farming Program is up and running again after a two-year hiatus, precipitated by the unexpected closing in 2016 of St.

Thousands to Rally in Support of the Young Americans behind Juliana v. United States

Trial in the landmark constitutional climate change lawsuit will not start on October 29, but the young plaintiffs will descend on Eugene, Oregon to have

Lessons from Ruby Bridges

In this tribute to Ruby Bridges, Edelman recalls the courage of a 6-year old black student in 1960 and calls upon all of us to follow her example.

Arena Stage to Honor Eve Ensler with American Artist Award

Arena Stage will present the American Artist Award to Tony Award-winning playwright, performer, activist and author Eve Ensler, one of Arena's Power Play

Juliana v. United States Moves Forward, Again

On Friday, November 2 the United States Supreme Court denied the Trump administration's application for stay in the landmark constitutional climate lawsui

“Americans Who Tell The Truth Through Law” artist shares stories of democracy, dissent

Brandeis School of Law has posted some nice website coverage about AWTT program there on October 30.

Tim DeChristopher on state of the "necessity" defense

Tim DeChristopher is interviewed about climate activism and use of the "necessity" defense in a recent WIRED article "Pipeline Vandals are

European Parliament Panel Approves Whistleblower Protections for all EU Countries

BRUSSELS - On Tuesday, the Legal Affairs Committee (JURI) of the European Parliament voted in favor of a proposed Whistleblower Protection Directive, whic

Nikki Giovanni Releases "A Good Cry"

Dubbed "The Poet of the Black Revolution", the legendary activist, poet and educator Nikki Giovanni received a warm welcome from the D.C.

Medea Benjamin in the Headlines

CODEPINK and Global Exchange cofounder Medea Benjamin is still out in the world making noise and taking action - seemingly everywhere.

Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II Goes After Coal Ash Pollution

“I don’t care how many times you tell me you love me, if you put coal ash in my water you don’t love me."

Urban Growers Collective: Will Allen's Daughter Erika Carries On

Erika Allen:We use urban farming as a way to heal communities in terms of trauma and the violence that a lot of our youth and their families experience.

AWTT Receives Grant from Maine Community Foundation

A story of forgiveness, a moment of grace

This letter about the Maine Wabanaki-State Child Welfare Truth and Reconciliation Commission by Arla Patch and Robert Shetterly was first published in the

US Postal Service Selects Shetterly Portrait for Shirley Chisholm Stamp

Brooksville, Maine -- On January 31, the United States Postal Service will unveil a new postage stamp honoring Shirley Chisholm

Connie Carter and Operation Breaking Stereotypes

Founder of Operation Breaking Stereotypes and AWTT Director of Education, Connie Carter, talks about the history of OBS in this Bangor Daily News article.

AWTT Launches the Samantha Smith Challenge

Americans Who Tell the Truth and the Maine Association for Middle Level Education launch The Samantha Smith Challenge for service learning and engaged cit

Announcing the First Winner of "The Shetterly Prize" for Socially Engaged Art

This year, 2015, the MyHero Project and Americans Who Tell the Truth created "The Shetterly Prize".

Greensboro, NC Students Contribute to and Learn from the AWTT Exhibit

A video made by Amelya Black from the opening of the Americans Who Tell the Truth show in Greensboro, North Carolina. Robert Shetterly narrates.

Call for Entries! The 2016 Shetterly Prize for Socially Engaged Art

Americans Who Tell the Truth and the My Hero Project are putting out the call for entries for the 2nd Annual "Shetterly Prize" for socially engaged art.

AWTT Newsletter: Fall 2017

It's been a very exciting fall forAmericans Who Tell the Truth and the Samantha Smith Challenge.

Government Takes Juliana to U. S. Supreme Court

July 31, 2018 Update: The U.S. Supreme Court denied the government's "emergency" motion.

Nicole Maines Cast as First Transgender Superhero On Television

The transgender activist behind a landmark "restroom of choice" case is marking another historic first. This time on television.

Dr. Mona's Memoir: The Story of Flint's Water Crisis

Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha's compelling story is now in print. What the Eyes Don't See: The Story of Crisis, Resistence and Hope in an American City.

Prison Theater Piece Invokes Alexander's Work

Cornell Chronicle reporter Linda Glaser reviews the Phoenix Players Theater Group's production of "The Strength of Our Convictions: The Auburn Redemp

2016 Samantha Smith Challenge Participants and Student Reaction

The 2016 Samantha Smith Challenge offered and exciting demonstration of student activism around the state of Maine with 9 schools and 700 kids working on

News

  • Clyde Kennard: The Unheard Word Reprised

    Hattiesburg, Mississippi
    David Tisdale, University of Southern Mississippi

    Clyde Kennard's story - of his persistent attempts to enter the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) in the 1950's  - is one of the lesser known stories of the mid-20th-century Civil Rights Movement. 

  • Ballad of an American: a Graphic Biography of Paul Robeson

    Sharon Rudahl, Yes! Magazine

    Get a sneak peak of Sharon Rudahl's new graphic biography of  singer, writer, civil rights activist Paul Robeson in Yes! Magazine. 

  • Pauli Murray and Black Trans Rights Shine at Sundance

    Democracy Now!

    Who is Pauli Murray? The pioneering African American legal scholar and organizer for racial and gender equality was celebrated this week at the annual Sundance Film Festival with the premier of the new documentary, “My Name is Pauli Murray.”

  • The Important Political History of Black History Month

    Jarvis R. Givens / Education Week

    Originally founded in 1926 as Negro History Week by the famed educator and groundbreaking historian Carter G. Woodson, Black History Month is the product of Black teachers’ long-standing intellectual and political struggles.

  • Environmental activists respond to Biden executive orders

    AWTT

    As the new administration takes more steps to address theclimate crisis, we have checked in on responses from some AWTTtruth tellers. Bill McKibbonwasstunningly optimistic about the Biden initiatives, calling it a "landmark day:" "January 27th was the most remarkable day in the history of America’s official response to the climate crisis, at least since that June afternoon in

  • Black Lives Matter movement nominated for Nobel peace prize

    The Guardian

    "In nominating Black Lives Matters for the Nobel Peace Prize, Norwegian MP Petter Eidecited precedents of the Oslo-based Nobel prize committee recognising the battle against racism.

  • Remembering Dr. King

    AWTT

    Reflecting on Marc Lamont Hill’s statement: “Today, let us remember Martin Luther King as he was: a Black radical anti-capitalist, anti-imperialist, revolutionary Christian who died as an enemy of the State. Anything else is just a lie.”

  • Land Ethic: Aldo Leopold

    AWTT

    Today we reflect on the wisdom of Aldo Leopold, born on this day in 1887 - ahead of his time. As we are becoming increasingly aware, the eradication of any species, be it flora or fauna, carries with it serious consequences for local and global ecosystems.

  • Congratulations to Kristina Borjesson

    Progressive Radio Network has given The Whistleblower Newsroom an award for outstanding programming in the investigative reporting category. 

  • Sherri Mitchell: The Search for Why

    Pop-Up Magazine

    Penobscot Nation activist Sherri Mitchell's essay "Theory of Natural Connection" appears alongside her AWTT portrait in Pop-Up Magazine's year-end special "Year in Search: The search for why."

Events