As March Madness heats up, we’re taking a time-out to honor a true trailblazer whose legacy defines the spirit of the game—Lusia “Lucy” Harris.

The 119th Congress, which convened on January 3rd, marks significant strides for women of color in American politics. According to a recent Pew Research Center analysis, this Congress is witnessing several historic firsts.

A recent Pew Research Center survey reveals that most Americans continue to support U.S. membership in the World Health Organization (WHO), though with notable partisan divisions. As of April 2024, 58% of Americans believe WHO membership benefits the country, with 25% seeing "a great deal" of benefit and 33% perceiving "a fair amount" of value.

March 20 marks what would have been the birthday of Fred Rogers—the beloved neighbor to millions of children across generations. It’s a day to reflect on the kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength of a man who taught us all how to navigate the world with empathy and understanding.

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) was established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter to ensure equal educational opportunities for all students and streamline federal education policies. Before its creation, education oversight was scattered across multiple agencies, leading to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in funding and policy implementation.

A recent Pew Research Center survey highlights a growing partisan gap in how Americans perceive federal career employees. The study, conducted in early 2025, reveals that while 55% of Americans overall express confidence in federal civil servants, political affiliation significantly shapes these views.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been a cornerstone of public health in the United States since its founding in 1946. Originally established as the Communicable Disease Center, its primary mission was to combat malaria, which posed a significant threat in the southern U.S. at the time. Armed with a small budget and a dedicated team, the CDC focused on controlling mosquito populations and preventing the spread of disease.

March arrives with a promise of renewal, and with it comes Women’s History Month—a time to reflect on the incredible women who have shaped our world. Their stories are woven into the fabric of history, sometimes boldly told, other times hidden in the margins, waiting to be rediscovered.

A Record Number of Openly LGBTQ Lawmakers

The 119th U.S. Congress marks a historic moment for LGBTQ representation, with 13 openly LGBTQ lawmakers serving in office, according to a Pew Research Center analysis.

A recent Pew Research Center survey reveals that a majority of Americans oppose expanding presidential powers, though views vary significantly by political affiliation. The study, conducted in early 2025, underscores the ongoing debate over executive authority and constitutional limits.

On February 27, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a unanimous decision that strengthened civil rights protections in community facilities. The case focused on the Wheaton-Haven Recreation Association, a nonprofit swimming pool in Wheaton, Maryland, a predominantly white suburb of Washington, D.C.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, consolidating various foreign assistance programs into a single agency. Its mission was to promote international development while advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives, rooted in the belief that America's security and prosperity were linked to the wellbeing of developing nations.

Nearly three years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Americans remain divided on U.S. support for Ukraine, NATO membership, and European defense spending—largely along partisan lines. A new Pew Research Center survey, conducted in February 2025, highlights these divisions, showing shifts in public opinion on key aspects of U.S. foreign policy.

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Sidney Poitier, a trailblazer whose impact on Hollywood and beyond is immeasurable. Born on February 20, 1927, Poitier shattered racial barriers, redefined representation, and inspired generations with his talent, dignity, and unwavering commitment to social justice.

The U.S. Black population reached 48.3 million in 2023, a 33% increase since 2000, reflecting demographic, geographic, and social changes. This growing and diverse group offers valuable insights, particularly during Black History Month.

The Pew Research Center recently analyzed U.S. foreign aid, examining its funding, purpose, distribution, and public perception. With $58.4 billion projected for international assistance programs in 2025, foreign aid remains vital to U.S. global engagement, even as the Trump administration seeks to reduce aid and dismantle USAID.

U.S. foreign aid is a critical tool for advancing American interests, promoting global stability, and protecting national security. Administered largely by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), foreign aid addresses global challenges that could otherwise escalate into threats to the U.S., all while representing less than 1% of the federal budget. Here’s why it matters and how USAID contributes to national security.

As conversations about gender identity continue to shape cultural and political landscapes, a recent Pew Research Center study sheds light on how U.S. teens and adults perceive and experience issues related to transgender and nonbinary identities. The findings reveal notable generational and partisan differences, offering insights into evolving social norms.

This week, we celebrate the life and legacy of Arthur Ashe, born on February 6, 1943. Ashe was not only a tennis legend but a trailblazer whose influence extended far beyond the court. As the first Black man to win Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, and the Australian Open, he shattered racial barriers in sports and opened doors for countless athletes of color who followed in his footsteps.

The 119th U.S. Congress stands as the most racially and ethnically diverse in history, with over a quarter (26%) of voting members identifying as non-White. This milestone continues an ongoing trend, with each successive Congress breaking previous records for diversity.