02.2025
Democracy discussion with Erwin Chemerinsky
In February of 2025, I attended a thought-provoking talk by Mr. Erwin Chemerinsky as part of the Global Initiatives Program (GIP) at Poly. His discussion focused on the state of democracy, legal system influence, and the challenges in maintaining democratic values.
One key point was political polarization’s impact on the Supreme Court. Mr. Chemerinsky proposed 18-year term limits and examined the electoral college’s role in democracy. He also highlighted how law professionals fear speaking out, sharing his experience of contacting 200 law school deans, many of whom hesitated to voice opinions due to repercussions. He also addressed the Constitution’s adaptability, questioning whether its 18th-century framework still serves modern society. The vague wording of the 14th Amendment, particularly regarding citizenship, continues to fuel debate. This made me consider whether amendments or even a rewrite are necessary.
One of the most impactful moments was Mr. Chemerinsky’s emphasis on speaking out against injustice, even when risky; which reinforced that democracy must be actively preserved.
For someone who doesn’t follow politics closely, this talk was eye-opening. I’m grateful for Mr. Chemerinsky’s insights and hope to learn more in the future. Thank you Mr. Chemerinsky!
One key point was political polarization’s impact on the Supreme Court. Mr. Chemerinsky proposed 18-year term limits and examined the electoral college’s role in democracy. He also highlighted how law professionals fear speaking out, sharing his experience of contacting 200 law school deans, many of whom hesitated to voice opinions due to repercussions. He also addressed the Constitution’s adaptability, questioning whether its 18th-century framework still serves modern society. The vague wording of the 14th Amendment, particularly regarding citizenship, continues to fuel debate. This made me consider whether amendments or even a rewrite are necessary.
One of the most impactful moments was Mr. Chemerinsky’s emphasis on speaking out against injustice, even when risky; which reinforced that democracy must be actively preserved.
For someone who doesn’t follow politics closely, this talk was eye-opening. I’m grateful for Mr. Chemerinsky’s insights and hope to learn more in the future. Thank you Mr. Chemerinsky!
02.2025
Immigration: Who are the DACA immigrants and what is their status?
I thought that the DACA panel was an eye-opening experience that made immigration issues feel much more personal. After hearing Mr. De Los Santos’s story about immigrating to the U.S., I understood the uncertainty and fear that so many DACA recipients live with. It’s one thing to read about immigration policies, but another to hear someone talk about the possibility of being sent to a country they’ve never even known. I also enjoyed the legal discussion, especially how different states handle undocumented immigrants and how the Supreme Court’s current stance on the 14th Amendment could shape future policies. I’m grateful to have had the chance to hear these stories firsthand and the panel reminded me that immigration isn’t just a policy debate; it’s about people.
11.2023
UN Day: Arn Chorn Pond and the Human Rights
I was extremely moved from listening to Arn’s compelling speech, which dove into themes of forgiveness and resilience. His narratives about the role of music in surviving the Cambodian genocide. Being the grandchild of refugees, Pond's stories hit deeply, and mirrored the grief and terror familiar to many in similar situations. His delicate treatment of his past and the peaceful way he navigates through grief showcased the transformative power of creativity in healing. As a musician myself, this resonated deeply with me, emphasizing the unique ability of music to serve as both a personal coping mechanism and a spark for positive societal change. I found his emphasis on forgiveness, resilience, and the choice to "pick up music and not guns" very inspirational. I was shocked to hear about his past and what he had went through; learning about how cruel the Cambodian genocide had been and how traumatic it must had been for him.
Pond's speech not only highlighted the link between music and resilience but also served as a testament to the enduring power of art in promoting forgiveness and positive societal changes. His journey underscored the universal language of music and overall, I am grateful to listen to him speak and will never forget his impactful words.
Pond's speech not only highlighted the link between music and resilience but also served as a testament to the enduring power of art in promoting forgiveness and positive societal changes. His journey underscored the universal language of music and overall, I am grateful to listen to him speak and will never forget his impactful words.
Photo source: theguardian.com
|
Photo source: Polytechnic School
|
11.2023
Artsakh: Ethnic Cleansing
Entering the panel with limited knowledge of the Artsakh conflict, I was enlightened about the nine-month blockade and subsequent military assault on Indigenous Armenians by Azerbaijan. As I listened to the panelists' personal perspectives, emphasising the destructive nature of genocide and ethnic cleansing, I felt sadness and could only imagine what what had happened. The emotional weight of the video in Artsakh further underscored the human impact of ethnic cleansing and left me in wonder.
Photo source: Polytechnic School
09.2023
Ernesto Cisneros:
Cultivating Belonging at home and beyond
I had a great time listening and watching Ernesto Cisneros's GIP talk and took away many valuable insights. Through his engaging storytelling and insightful reflections, Cisneros delivered a powerful message on the transformative impact of empathy, understanding, and representation. Drawing from his experiences, I observed how he emphasized the importance of genuine connections, encouraging open conversations that break down barriers. His journey, marked by overcoming shame and limitations, served as an inspiration for dreaming big and challenging societal narratives.
In literature, particularly his novel "Efren Divided," Cisneros skillfully captured shared experiences, offering insight into the lives of others. In the face of societal challenges, Cisneros' narratives stood as a unifying force, reminding us that stories have the power to change perspectives, bridge divides, and support the dreams of all. Personally, I loved listening to him speak and found it truly inspirational.
In literature, particularly his novel "Efren Divided," Cisneros skillfully captured shared experiences, offering insight into the lives of others. In the face of societal challenges, Cisneros' narratives stood as a unifying force, reminding us that stories have the power to change perspectives, bridge divides, and support the dreams of all. Personally, I loved listening to him speak and found it truly inspirational.
