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Doctrine of Discovery, Until Otherwise

Posted by: Jennifer Davis

On March 30, 2023, the Vatican issued a joint statement repudiating the “doctrine of discovery” and terra nullius. The doctrine of discovery was used as the legal foundation for taking the land of Indigenous people by Europeans, and for the establishment of residential schools; as Justice Marshall wrote, “The European governments asserted the exclusive right …

Ornate red and ivory wall decoration, with plaque and symbols

Santa Laws

Posted by: Jennifer Davis

If your family celebrates Christmas and expects a visit from Santa Claus, you and yours are hoping for a successful visit from the jolly old elf and his reindeer. Local, federal and foreign governments are doing their regulatory best to speed his mail and ease his journey across borders with foreign livestock, regardless of his …

Ornate red and ivory wall decoration, with plaque and symbols

National Police Week, May 13-19

Posted by: Jennifer Davis

The following post is a joint effort by Jennifer Davis and Betty Lupinacci. This week memorializes National Police Week, when law enforcement officers honor their colleagues who have died in service. May 15 was first proclaimed Peace Officers Memorial Day by President Kennedy in 1962. There is a series of events surrounding the day—a memorial …