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The Black Novelist History Forgot

Robert B. Stepto  The Washington Post
Himes was a pivotal and versatile post WW II-era American novelist whose work influenced several generations of African American and other writers. A new biography of the novelist is drawing national attention.

"Roman J. Israel, Esq." Review – Denzel Washington Captivates In Unusual Legal Drama

Benjamin Lee The Guardian
The film is a haunting and timeless American tragedy that feels ever prescient given the current administration’s foggy understanding of morality. It might prove to be a tough sell thanks to an awkward title and a strange plot trajectory, but Roman J. Israel, Esq. is a richly rewarding drama blessed with one of the best, most lived-in performances of the year. 

How to Wipe Out Puerto Rico’s Debt Without Hurting Bondholders

Ellen Brown CounterPunch
As economist Michael Hudson says, “Debts that can’t be paid won’t be paid.” Puerto Rico is bankrupt, its economy destroyed. In fact it is currently in bankruptcy proceedings with its creditors. Which suggests its time for some more out-of-the-box thinking . . . .

Why Labor Is Fighting to Save Veterans’ Healthcare

Suzanne Gordon and Ian Hoffmann Labor Notes
“Some in Congress want to underfund the VA so they can say that government doesn’t work,” says Dusten Retcher, a 29-year old Air Force veteran, who processes veterans’ benefit claims in Minneapolis. “Then they want to turn it over to the private market.”

Canadian, U.S. Unions Push for Wage Hike Amid NAFTA Talks

Ginger Adams Otis New York Daily News
Labor leaders in the U.S. have made it clear they are supportive of a NAFTA overhaul — but only if it helps eliminate the wage gap with Mexico and includes Canada’s long-shot demands for labor reform.