Scientific research also repeatedly cites the profound positive impact of pet ownership on individual well-being and community health.Â
Opinion
Posted inOpinion
Should we impose a moratorium on new prison construction or expansions?
Advocates say a moratorium on prison construction makes sense because the state’s incarceration rate has dropped dramatically and most imprisonment is inherently dehumanizing, and too many criminal offenses are the result of race-based oppression. Opponents say we need updated prison facilities, even with fewer prisoners behind bars.
Posted inOpinion
Mass. tax amnesty program is good, but it could be improved
There is a pending bill that if passed would update our state offer program making it accessible and more equitable.
Posted inOpinion
State residents remain mixed on changing name of Columbus Day
Despite its reputation as a haven of progressive political leaning, Massachusetts has resisted efforts to change the name of Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples Day , and we find that attitudes toward race and racism have a lot to do with that.
Posted inOpinion
Why kids should read obituaries
Obituaries are about life, not death – death is merely the detail that gets these stories of life printed. And kids should read these life stories.
Posted inOpinion
Don’t dress up prohibition and call it compassion
Contrary to the article’s portrayal of this policy as a wave sweeping across Massachusetts, the reality is much different. Many communities where it was proposed have either put discussions on hold or outright rejected it after hearing from their residents.
Posted inOpinion
First responders in Mass. should have access to fentanyl treatment
It’s my sincere hope that Massachusetts will update its standing orders to include this treatment. Our first responders need to have access to all available approved treatments.Â
Posted inOpinion
The youth mental health crisis is taking a hidden toll on parents
The youth mental health crisis is also a parent mental health crisis. By supporting parents, we’re not just helping adults—we’re laying the foundation for healthier families and a more resilient society.
Posted inOpinion
As teachers, we see the MCAS graduation requirement doing more harm than good
Every student in a Massachusetts public school should receive a high-quality education that readies them for their future, whether that is in the workforce, career training, or college. That doesn’t come from a high-stakes one-size-fits-all standardized test.
Posted inOpinion
Scrapping MCAS would be irresponsible
Eliminating the assessment system we have without putting alternative in its place is utterly irresponsible. The predictable outcome of leaving each district on its own to set graduation standards is that the already unacceptable gaps in student performance based on race and class will only get wider.