Dr. Elijah Nicholas

  As we approach another pivotal election year, the power of the ballot cannot be overstated. Voting is more than a civic duty; it is a profound opportunity to shape the direction of our nation and, by extension, the world. Informed voting is crucial for ensuring that our voices are heard and our values represented. As we prepare to go to the polls, it is essential to think from a collective conscious perspective, considering the greater good and the healing of our nation and the world. The Importance of Voting for the Greater Good The act of voting is a collective exercise in democracy, a way for us to express our shared vision for the future. When we cast our ballots, we are not just voting for individual candidates or policies; we are voting for the kind of society we want to live in. This means looking beyond our immediate interests and considering how our choices will affect the broader community. Voting for the greater good involves thinking about the well-being of all citizens,

As the creator of " Madoodle ," the story of a ten-year-old rambunctious girl navigating the journey of her Uncle Pete (who was once her favorite Auntie Mary), I embarked on a deeply personal journey driven by a desire to promote trans awareness and gender identity inclusion in children's literature. Inspired by real-life experiences and a commitment to fostering acceptance and compassion, I poured my heart and soul into crafting a story that would resonate with readers of all ages. Growing up, I experienced firsthand the challenges faced by individuals navigating gender identity and expression. From family members to friends, I also saw the importance of love, acceptance, and visibility in supporting their journeys. However, I must admit that I recognized the glaring lack of representation in children's literature, particularly when it came to stories that centered on transgender experiences in the African American community. With " Madoodle ," I set out to

May is Mental Health Awareness Month , a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental well-being and advocating for accessible care. As we reflect on the significance of this observance, it’s crucial to shine a spotlight on the unique challenges faced by veterans, particularly those who identify as LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and other diverse sexual orientations and gender identities). The intersectionality of their identities presents distinct barriers to accessing quality mental health care, underscoring the need for targeted support and resources. The Struggles of LGBTQIA+ Veterans: LGBTQIA+ individuals have long faced discrimination and marginalization within society, and the military community is no exception. Despite progress in LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility, service members and veterans continue to grapple with the repercussions of systemic discrimination and social stigma. For LGBTQIA+ veterans, th