Blog

Jul 11

Contradictions: Competition and Care in Jordanian Pigeon Keeping, by Carolina Hidalgo-McCabe

by Kelly Vo

When I tell people what I’m researching here in Jordan there’s always some element of shock. In the US, people wondered how pigeons could be so important to fly halfway across the world to research. In Jordan, people often react with shock that an American is here to learn more about كش الحمام (pigeon keeping and breeding).

Jul 11

Oslo Freedom Forum: Gender and Human Rights, by Abigail Elsbree

by MH

Among the many new concepts that I learned during my three days at the Oslo Freedom Forum, I was particularly interested in the term “gender apartheid.” I first heard it used during an afternoon panel on the first day titled “Iran: The Final Revolution?” Human rights attorney Gissou Nia defined gender apartheid by reminding the audienc

Mar 28

Finding Joy in Cuba by Ava Vander Louw (A23)

by heatherbarry

Prior to travelling to Cuba, I didn’t know what to expect.

 

When trying to understand the reality of life on the island through google searches, it was apparent that the truth was obscured by government-owned travel agencies and hotels flashing images of beautiful beaches and retro cars.

 

Mar 27

Day 2 of Interviews in Amman, Jordan, by Sofia Ladak (A25)

by heatherbarry

Today is our second full day in Jordan, which means that we are finally slipping into the rhythm of the city of Amman. We have all felt incredibly well received in this country and are very much enjoying our time here. 

Mar 20

Juani, the flower man by Carolina Hidalgo-McCabe (A23)

by heatherbarry

I peered over the side of the balcony, and below me, on the corner, I see an elderly man with a cart of sunflowers and gladiolus. He’s not yelling out to let people know he’s selling flowers, just standing calmly.

Mar 14

Greetings from Doha! by Sibi Nyaoga (A23)

by heatherbarry

It has been a whirlwind of a week for us. Despite being sleep-deprived and jet-lagged, we were buzzing with excitement. The UN LDC 5 Conference is being hosted at Qatar National Convention Center – a huge space serving as a boma (meeting place) for policy leaders, presidents, and NGOs.