Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Amanda Edwards, Texas's 18th Congressional District

Today we are highlighting Amanda Edwards (she/her), a former member of the Houston City Council. Endorsed by EMILY’S List, Amanda is focused on rolling back Trump’s cuts to federal assistance programs, including SNAP, FEMA, Meals on Wheels, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act, that affect the constituents in TX-18. Amanda is particularly passionate about supporting equitable health outcomes, having served on a steering committee to address the issue on black maternal deaths among other issues, and being an active proponent of funding measures like the Momnibus Bill to reduce the black maternal death disparities we face.

Ellory Grace Gives Back

Rising actress, musician, international model, and youth advocate Ellory Grace commits her time to authentic creative ventures and community service. This year she co-hosted the Annual Red Carpet Ice Skating Toy Drive benefiting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. She is also heavily involved with other youth organizations, including the UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital and The Kids Mental Health Foundation. To learn more about Ellory Grace and her upcoming projects, read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 57.7Eva Elisa WellsJanuary 2, 2026model, toy drive, kids, mental health advocateComment

Why Is Trump Bombing Venezuelan Boats?

On September 2, the U.S. military carried out the first and second deadly strikes on a Venezuelan boat in the Caribbean on direct orders from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Although no clear evidence has been provided, the Trump administration alleged that the targets were narco-terrorists carrying drugs on their boat. Two of the crew survived the first strike, which led to a second attack issued by the special operations commander of the mission, Admiral Frank Bradley. It was reported by the Washington Post that Bradley was complying with Hegseth’s verbal command, that came before the strikes, to kill all people on board.

Articles, zIssue 57.7Eva Elisa WellsDecember 31, 2025Trump, Trump administration, Donald Trump, South America, Military, military, bombing, attacks, usnews, us, united statesComment

Nathan Spiteri's Journey to Healing

Actor and Writer Nathan Spiteri opens up about his experience with sexual violence in his recently released documentary “If You Tell Anyone” adapted from his memoir “Toy Cars: One Man’s Journey from Trauma to Triumph.” He details how the abuse affected his life and how exercising vulnerability has helped him take back his power. Spiteri works with organizations like NO MORE Foundation, Child Liberation Foundation, and Voices Beyond Assault in the fight to raise awareness about sexual violence. To learn more about Nathan Spiteri and his new documentary, read on.

Xoë Miles's Vulnerable Storytelling

Singer-songwriter and producer Xoë Miles recently released her new single “Someone’s Somebody.” Creating a contrast between lyrics and beat, the track delves into one-sided feelings and the practice of overthinking with an energetic, 2010s inspired sound. Beyond the music, Miles is committed to volunteering her time to organizations like Children's Cancer Recovery Foundation, Snowdrop Foundation, Tunes for Tots, and Hollister's Girls Rock Camp. To learn more about Xoë Miles and her new music, read on.

Small Steps to Making a Difference in Your Local Community

Building a sustainable future and creating a positive impact can begin with little actions right in your own neighborhood. Intentional steps that accumulate over time can enhance community connections and benefit the local environment — each contribution can motivate change in your surroundings.

Articles, zIssue 57.7Cora GoldDecember 24, 2025community, volunteering, voting, connection, sustainabilityComment

The Reclassification of Professional Degree Programs

As the first year of Trump’s second term in office nears its end, we have watched as our own lives and the lives of those around us are turned upside down. Now, new changes enacted by the U.S. Department of Education are bringing even more life altering news.

The definition of “professional degree” program has been updated to exclude several important professions. This is just one of the many shifts that has come alongside the implementation of Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.”

Jules: Music as Unfiltered Expression

Artist Jules recently released his anticipated 10-track debut album “Loverboy Chronicles.” The project provides an unfiltered view of his personal experience and expression of love in our highly digital culture. Through raw emotional openness, Jules shows us that strength is found through honesty. Beyond the music, Jules is dedicated to supporting his community through participation in quarterly blood donations, helping local food banks and community events, and becoming the project manager for Union Dance. To learn more about Jules and his latest album, read on.

A Greener Way to Give: The Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide 2025

Choosing the perfect gift doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. As more people embrace mindful living, sustainable gifting has become a thoughtful way to celebrate the ones we love while reducing environmental impact. Whether you’re shopping for her, him, teens, beauty enthusiasts, or friends settling into a new home, eco-friendly options now span every interest and style. From ethically crafted essentials to innovative low-waste products, this guide brings together meaningful, sustainable gifts that show you care—about them and the world we share.

Restricted SNAP Benefits: How to Find Resources & How to Help

After the recent government shutdown left millions of Americans with little to no access to SNAP food benefits, many have been scrambling to find food for themselves and families. Now that the shutdown is officially over, states are working quickly to get the missing food assistance back to its people.

Billy Offland's Pot of Gold

Committed to environmentalism, the climate crisis, and biodiversity, Billy Offland helped create the inspiring documentary “Pot of Gold.” The documentary highlights real challenges such as climate change, poverty, sustainability, and the connection between the environment’s wellbeing and humanity’s wellbeing. For even greater impact, the project was create in partnership with the influential organization Human Appeal. To learn more about Billy Offland and “Pot of Gold,” read on.

Alexis Plaen Invites You to "Enjoy the Void"

Chicago-based singer-songwriter Alexis Plaen just released her new album, “Enjoy the Void.” The project was born out of the mass isolation felt during the recent COVID-19 lockdown and carries a confrontational energy towards society. Incorporating activism into her music, Plaen has performed at benefit concerts to provide support for families in Gaza and hosted her album listening party in partnership with the mutual aid group Yardsales against F4ascism. To learn more about Alexis Plaen and the Void, read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 57.7Eva Elisa WellsDecember 1, 2025music artist, music industry, new music, New Album, capitalism, mutual aid, fascism, chicago, lyricsComment

Rich Allo's Introspection

Music artist Rich Allo explores the ups and downs of the human experience through music. From mental health to relationship dynamics, his introspective lyrics speak to deep human emotion. His new single, “You” details the emotional difficulties of trying to stay in control and not let something break you down. Show his dedication to mental health awareness even further, a number of his shows have been in aid with the mental health focused organization Mind Jersey. To learn more about Rich Allo and his new single, read on.