The Obama Presidential Center opens its doors in Chicago, coinciding with the Juneteenth celebrations. This center is the most recent addition to the institution of presidential libraries in the United States. Presidential libraries usually preserve significant historical documents and events, such as wars and elections. However, they also contain unusual artifacts from different time periods....
During a visit to Maputo, Mozambique, I experienced a unique mode of transportation: a tuk-tuk motorcycle taxi. My colleague, Vincent Acovino, and I were reporting on U.S. funding adjustments for AIDS programs in Africa. What caught our attention were some fascinating concrete apartment blocks and government offices. With some free time, we embarked on an...
In the mid-1990s, Los Angeles was awash with David Hockney posters. One day, I found my first Hockney print by chance, leaning against a humble Volkswagen Rabbit in a West Hollywood carport. The print was damaged and the frame bent. When asked for the price, the garage sale seller urged me to ‘name your price.’...
A federal holiday continues on, yet the tradition hasn’t fully cemented nationwide. Observance of Juneteenth, recognized as a federal holiday, signifies a commitment to remembering the end of slavery in the United States. Despite this, the cultural significance is still spreading. Consider the symbolism of the white oak in my backyard, which stands as a...
The Shockoe Institute in Richmond, Virginia, recently welcomed visitors with a mission to expand understanding of the lasting impact of slavery and foster civic solutions. The initiative was spotlighted by Amna Nawaz as part of the Art in Action series, an exploration of the mutual influence of art and democracy, featured in PBS’s CANVAS coverage....
A large banner displayed on the facade of the Office of Personnel Management in Washington, D.C. showcases a portrait of Theodore Roosevelt. Below his image, the banner bears an inspirational quote attributed to him. It reads, Courage is not having the strength to go on; it is going on when you don’t have the strength....
The Empire State Building stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City today. Originally designed nearly a century ago, its distinctive spire was intended for a purpose that might surprise visitors: docking airships. This feature was envisioned as a mooring mast for dirigibles, allowing passengers to disembark directly into the skyscraper,...
America 250 spokesperson Rosie Rios has revealed items chosen for a time capsule to be buried on Independence Mall in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026. The items include a pocket Constitution signed by Supreme Court Justices, a crystal from the 2026 New Year’s Eve ball drop, and an NFL/America 250 coin. These items aim to...
Transgender actor Elliot Page discussed the concept of ‘healthy masculinity’ on the podcast “It’s Open with Ilana Glazer.” Page emphasized the importance of moving away from emotional suppression, a common expectation in traditional masculinity. Page shared experiences as both a public figure and someone transitioning. He highlighted the tendency to conform to societal expectations, which...
Iconic Buildings and Architectural Criticism Famous buildings often capture the public’s attention, becoming symbols that define their cities. However, some architects see flaws in these structures, questioning their design choices, context, and functionality. Meanwhile, the architectural focus is shifting from creating new icons to revitalizing older buildings. Architect Gordon Gill emphasized the importance of ‘refreshing’...