Marissa Chanel Hampton: Storytelling Drives Social Change

Actress, audiobook narrator, and social justice advocate Marissa Chanel Hampton stars as the lovingly honest character Gail in a new modern family drama series titled “It’s Not Like That.” She is also currently narrating the Farah Rochon’s Bayou Dreams series. Beyond storytelling, Hampton is an active social justice advocate, supporting organizations like the American Library Association, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the Sister Song of Color Reproductive Justice Collective. To learn more about Marissa Chanel Hampton and her storytelling, read on.

Raivo Jackson's Blues-Infused Western Grooves

Finland-based band Raivo Jackson recently released their debut album “Tangled Up In Roots,” a collection of narrative driven songs written from compelling character point of views. The latest single from the album, “Swimming Under Ice,” is a blues-infused, western groove that explores the forces that drive someone to make bad decisions. Beyond the music, lead vocalist Saska teaches Finnish to immigrants at the Finnish Refugee Council. To learn more about Raivo Jackson and their debut album, read on.

Why is Trump Really Interested in Greenland?

Since the beginning of his first term, President Trump has had his eyes set on Greenland, though he has been unsuccessful in any attempt to acquire the territory. Now a year into his second term and he has doubled down on such aspirations, only this time he has upped the aggression behind his threats.

Unifying Americans: Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show

On February 8, with a total of 135 million viewers, Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime performance became the most watched halftime show ever. One thing was clear throughout the almost 14 minutes he was on the field, this performance was not just an homage to Puerto Rican and Latino culture, but an act of resistance against the backdrop of aggressive immigration crackdowns and targeted racist rhetoric.

Namira's Multicultural Music

Korean-American singer-songwriter, DJ, and producer Namira blends culture to create a fusion of Eastern and Western influenced music. Recently stepping out with her debut EP titled “California Forever,” she merges EDM and folk rock to create a sound she calls “California EDM.” Namira connects back to her roots throughout this new project and honors both her mother and her heritage. Beyond music, she recently took action and joined in on No Kings and anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. To learn more about Namira and her new EP, read on.

Eco-Friendly Valentine's Day Ideas the Planet Will Love

Before the grand flower bouquets and mass-produced chocolate hearts, Valentine’s Day was just about love and connection. This year, you can recapture that authentic spirit. The holiday is an opportunity to show appreciation for your loved ones and the world around you. Here’s how to skip the commercialized cliches and celebrate Valentine’s Day in ways that show love to the planet, too.

Articles, zIssue 57.7Cora GoldFebruary 10, 2026valentine's day, eco friendly, holiday, sustainable, low waste, date ideas, gift ideasComment

James Artissen: Making a Mark on the Music Industry

Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, record producer, audio engineer, and founder of Humble Sound Records James Artissen has made a name for himself in the music industry. Through his experience working in various areas of music production, he has been able to implement techniques into his own art that create a sound unique to him. Artissen also uses his platform for the betterment of others, often partnering with the mayor of Atlanta to raise funding for the homeless, HBCU’s, and benefit concerts for communities around the city. He is also preparing to launch his own music foundation to educate young musicians about the music and entertainment industry. To learn more about James Artissen and his music, read on.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Erin Gamez, Texas House of Representatives, District 38

Today we are profiling Representative Erin Gamez (she/her), a millennial attorney from Brownsville, TX, at the very bottom tip of the state. A heavily Hispanic area, this part of Texas has been historically Democratic, but in the last couple of election cycles, Republicans have performed well due to Trump’s gains with the Hispanic community. An ardent litigative practicing attorney with a focus on Administrative, Business, Criminal, and Family cases, she also serves as the mental health diversion court attorney for Cameron County. In her personal life, she loves yoga, grilling, and the Texas Longhorns.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 57.7Andrew FFebruary 6, 2026latinx, millenial, woman, latina, human rights, lawyer, election 2026Comment

What’s Happening in Iran & Why Should We Be Paying Attention?

Over the last 17 years Iranians have taken to the streets to protest their theocratic regime, but recently demonstrations have seen rapid growth. Alongside that increase, thousands of protestors have been severely injured and killed as a result of riot police force’s tear gas and live ammunition.

Therese “Tag” Goulet's Sugar Mama Show Is A Gift

Canadian-based producer and philanthropist Therese “Tag” Goulet has provided financial support for hundreds of creative individuals and projects. She is also the creator of the upcoming reality television series “The Gift”, where she appears under the title ‘The Sugar Mama’ as she watches multi-talented creatives competitively showcase their skills in hopes of earning a gift of $100,000 from her. Beyond the show, Tag has been a part of several organizations dedicated to fostering the growth of creatives, including the Calgary International Film Festival, Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers, and the Film Independent Arts Circle to name a few. To learn more about Therese “Tag” Goulet and her upcoming reality series, read on.

NORA.'s Knack for Relatable Storytelling

Leaving a corporate 9-5 to purse her dreams of a career in the music industry, NORA. is set to release her debut EP, “Just Words.,” on January 30th. After getting a taste of what’s to come through her single, “Kiss My Ass.,” we know we can expect nothing less than catchy hooks and relatable storytelling. Beyond the music, NORA. advocates for children with disabilities, volunteer at the nonprofit organization Best Buddies, and has even been a part of Musicians on Call’s 2025 holiday campaign. To learn more about NORA. and her debut EP, read on.

Maduro’s Capture Raises Legal Concerns

For months the Trump administration has been running a pressure campaign on Venezuela and its autocratic leader, Nicolás Maduro. This campaign was an effort meant to push Maduro from power as the Trump administration has accused him and his government of being involved in drug-trafficking and terrorism. More specifically, Trump blames Maduro for sending the fentanyl that has contributed to the American opioid crisis and for the rise of Venezuelan immigrants in the United States.

Articles, zIssue 57.7Eva Elisa WellsJanuary 28, 2026Trump, Trump administration, Donald Trump, politics, Politics, political, politician, government, GovernmentComment

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Chase Linko-Looper, Kanawha County, WV Magistrate

Chase Linko-Looper (he/they) is no stranger to adversity. A former Army veteran, Chase returned home from war to confront two other enemies: addiction and homelessness. After overcoming these struggles, Chase became involved in community organizing to fight the evils that plague his home state of West Virginia: addiction, poverty, housing eviction, and domestic violence. In 2024, Chase ran for Governor of West Virginia as the Mountain Party candidate, but for this current race he is running as an Independent. In 2025, he published A Walk In My Broken Shoes: The Cage Is The Country. In addition, Chase also started Fights Back, a community aid organization that works to feed the hungry. This millennial father is dedicated to strengthening mental health resources and transforming the Court into a place that treats people with fairness and doesn’t punish them for being poor.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 57.7Andrew FJanuary 26, 2026revolution, election, food insecurity, mental health, poverty, election 2026Comment

5 New Year's Resolutions to Make a Difference in the World

It seems like every day brings bad news lately, and it’s easy to get bogged down by doomscrolling on your phone. While some things feel out of your control, there are ways you can be a positive force for change.

The start of a new year brings a refreshed sense of action and optimism. This year, use that motivation to make a difference in the world. Here are five New Year’s resolutions to help you make a difference in the world.

Articles, zIssue 57.7Cora GoldJanuary 23, 2026resolutions, new year, sustainability, donations, community, volunteeringComment

Nicolle Maroulis of Hit Like A Girl on Music and Meaning

Lead singer of the “indie/emo/sometimes hardcore” band Hit Like A Girl, Nicolle Maroulis, opens up about their music making process, the story behind their latest single, “Keepsake Theory,” and the band’s upcoming LP, “Burning at Both Ends.” Beyond music, Maroulis displays their passion for helping the transgender community through their organization No More Dysphoria Found. To learn more about Nicolle Maroulis and Hit Like A Girl’s upcoming project, read on.

Snow-Kissed Style: The Beauty Trends Taking Over Winter

As winter sets in, beauty shifts toward richer textures, softer light, and a more thoughtful approach to makeup. The season invites looks that feel intentional yet expressive, balancing warmth with a sense of atmosphere and mood. From luminous finishes that catch the light to deeper tones and gently diffused color, winter beauty this year explores contrast—between glow and depth, softness and drama. Together, these styles reflect a season that favors creativity, subtle romance, and a touch of bold elegance.

Rina Rain's Mantra for Inner Peace

Mantra artist and meditation guide Rina Rain released a new, powerful mantra song, “Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu,” to help lead others to heal and find their inner peace. The track comes as a sneak peak of her new album “Whispers of Rain,” a meaningful project filled with unique mantras rooted in ancient tradition. Her dedication to making her practices accessible is clear through her work opening programs for minorities and those experiencing financial hardships. Rain also devotes her time to various non-profit organization in pursuit of heling others build resilience and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. To learn more about Rina Rain and her upcoming album, read on.

Layered Up: What Everyone’s Wearing This Winter

As the temperature drops, winter fashion rises to the occasion. This season wraps us in cozy confidence, mixing comfort with eye-catching trends that make even the coldest days feel stylish.

SWAC: Fashion, zIssue 57.7Kylie MurphyJanuary 12, 2026fashion, winter fashion, Winter Clothes, trending, Sustainability, sustainable fashionComment

Limited Power: Russia’s Nuclear Power Plant Attacks on Ukraine

Tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been extremely high for years and although recent progress of peace negotiations have opened up the possibility of a better future for the two, we have yet to see a decrease in targeted attacks.

Audrey Lynn-Marie on Acting and Animals

Actress Audrey Lynn-Marie may be young, but she has talent beyond her years. Her breakout role in “Five Nights At Freddy’s 2” showcases her ability to expertly portray a broad range of emotions in a short amount of time. Outside of acting, her passion for pups is clear through her volunteer work with Angels Among Us Pet Rescue. To learn more about Audrey Lynn-Marie and her new roles, read on.