SUMMARY: Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the Supreme Court’s most senior liberal justice, delivered a 15-minute dissent from the bench opposing the court’s decision to uphold Tennessee’s ban on puberty blockers and hormone treatments for transgender minors. The six conservative justices upheld the law using a deferential rational-basis review, rejecting the Biden administration’s claim of unconstitutional sex discrimination. Sotomayor, joined by Justices Kagan and Jackson, argued the law discriminates based on sex and should undergo heightened scrutiny, protecting transgender children from political whims. She criticized the court for weakening Equal Protection Clause protections and leaving transgender Americans vulnerable to discrimination.

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SUMMARY: L&N STEM Academy’s rowing club is featured as part of a “Cool Camps” segment, offering students hands-on experience in rowing along the Tennessee River. Assistant coach Evan explains that when students can’t practice on the water, they train on rowing machines called “ergs” to build strength and cardio endurance. The training focuses on perfecting rowing motions in sequence—arms, back, and legs. The beautiful downtown Knoxville skyline provides a scenic backdrop as students engage in intense, repetitive workouts to prepare for real water sessions. Reporter Aaron Velasquez gives viewers a glimpse of the challenging practice and the discipline rowing requires.

Rowing club assistant coach, Evan, talks about the importance of training for rowing.

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SUMMARY: In 2024, Michelle L. Watkins became North Huntsville’s District 1’s first Black female council member. Months later, she received a racist, hateful letter targeting her natural hair and using racial slurs. Watkins shared the letter on social media, sparking widespread outrage. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle condemned the attack, emphasizing the city’s commitment to dignity and respect. The Huntsville-Madison County NAACP called the letter a vile act of hatred, urging a thorough investigation and accountability. They highlighted the ongoing racism in society and reaffirmed their dedication to protecting civil rights. The sender remains unknown, with motives rooted in racism.

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The post This Alabama City’s First-Ever Black Councilwoman Receives Letter Calling Her N-Word, and That’s Not All – The Tennessee Tribune appeared first on tntribune.com