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Society

As your trusted friend, we’re here with the “Reader’s Digest version” of social issues that impact the world around you. From gun violence statistics to the history behind the black power fist, and how to be an LGBTQ ally, our explainers will break it all down.

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Why Better Mental Health Care Won’t Stop Mass Shootings, According to a Psychiatrist

Everyone deserves access to the mental health care they need, but that wouldn't mean the end of gun violence

What Is Environmental Racism, and How Can We Fight It?

Environmental racism isn’t a new problem, but it often flies under the radar—with disastrous consequences. Here, experts explain what it...


What Are Commonsense Gun Laws—and How Can They Save Lives?

What kind of commonsense gun laws would help stem the tide of gun violence while also respecting the rights of...


The 18 Best Face Masks for COVID-19 Protection and Comfort

A new variant means it's time for a new mask.


Henry Louis Gates Jr.: The Lasting Impact of Alex Haley’s “Roots”

Alex Haley’s landmark book began in Reader’s Digest, where he worked as a senior editor. Its impact is still being...

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13 Air Travel Rules You Should Know Before Flying During the Pandemic

Getting ready to fly? Read these important rules before you head to the airport to make sure you're cleared for...


This Is the Word of the Year for 2021

This year's winner is a centuries-old throwback.

8 Things You Need to Know About the Omicron Variant

With new information about Omicron emerging every day, scientists are understanding more about how the new Covid-19 variant spreads—and what...


20 Best Books by Native American Authors to Read Right Now

This diverse array of compelling reads will stick with you long after you've put the books back on your shelf.


The 40 Best LGBTQ+ Books to Read Right Now

We asked nine queer authors to share the best LGBTQ books they've ever read. Here are their top picks.


Should You Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine and Flu Shot on the Same Day?

What's the safest COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine spacing per the CDC? Here's what experts say about those and other...

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13 Things That Are About to Get More Expensive

Get ready to shell out even more for some of your go-to items, thanks to shipping wars, labor issues, and...


How to Respond When Someone Says “All Lives Matter”

There is actually a productive, positive way to counter this statement that can help promote understanding and combat racism.

6 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch Coronavirus

Nope, the pandemic isn't over. Here are the places where experts say you're most likely to catch COVID-19.


The 20 Best Books by Latinx Authors You’ll Want to Read Right Now

From memoirs to Gothic horror novels, YA fiction to essay collections, these books by Hispanic authors feature fresh perspectives and...


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9 Things You May Not See in Theme Parks Anymore

Theme parks are open again, but you'll definitely notice some differences if you visit one right now.

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What Hotel Buffets Look Like Now, Post-Pandemic

Plated meals, an increased reliance on waitstaff, and higher costs may become the new normal for this popular hotel staple.


What Anti-Racism Means and What It Means to Be Anti-Racist

It's not enough to get mad about racial inequality. You have to do something about it.


Colorism vs. Racism: What’s the Difference?

Even within minority communities, discrimination persists in unexpected ways. If you’ve never heard of colorism, here’s what you need to...


20 Podcasts About Race You Need to Hear

Learning about race relations in America has to be a deliberate choice, and the responsibility falls on all of us....


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6 Things You Won’t Be Able to Do on Airplanes Anymore

In the long run, air travel might not change as drastically as you might think. But some of the short-term...


What Does Non-Binary Mean? Understanding This LGBTQ Term and Why It’s Important

Gender isn’t always a straightforward issue, but being respectful about how someone identifies is. Here’s what you need to know.


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5 Things You Won’t See in Hotels Anymore—And 2 You Will

As hotels welcome guests in a post-coronavirus world, some of the measures put in place at the start of the...


What Is Implicit Bias? How to Recognize and Change Our Unconscious Stereotypes and Assumptions

Experts say we all have some bias, but there are ways to fight against it.

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8 Things You Won’t See in Hair Salons Anymore

Hair salons and barbershops are open again, but some of the pandemic precautions remain.


I Came Out After 20 Years of Marriage and Met the Love of My Life

Larry Best thought he had the perfect love and the perfect marriage, but until he found his husband and soul...


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3 Things You Won’t See in Costco Anymore

As the COVID-19 pandemic eases in the U.S., some stores are starting to ease restrictions—and Costco is no exception. But...


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9 Things You Won’t Be Able to Do on Cruises Anymore

The world has changed, and cruising looks a little different now. Here's what you should know before booking your next...


What Black Lives Matter Means: The History of the Movement

What is the true meaning of Black Lives Matter? Many are still muddling the powerful message of the global movement.


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Gun Violence Statistics in the United States: 12 Charts You Need to See

While it’s clear that America has a gun violence problem, these staggering statistics shed new light on just how pervasive...