npr--2020-07-03--Planning To Celebrate The 4th? What To Know About The Risks Of Parties And Bars

Planning To Celebrate The 4th ?
What To Know About The Risks Of Parties And Bars Wanting to get together with friends and family to celebrate this holiday weekend but nervous about the coronavirus ?
With new infections climbing in most states , infectious disease experts discourage group get-togethers , especially one that involves drinking .
Bottom line : Watch out for parties or bars .
These settings tend to lead to a breakdown of the very behaviors that help prevent new infections .
It 's a dangerous mix : socializing in large groups , sometimes in tight spaces and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it less likely they 'll follow pandemic precautions like wearing masks and practicing good hygiene .
Plus party-goers end up talking loudly , which only increases the chance of spraying virus-laden particles on other guests , especially indoors .
`` It 's really hard to wear a mask in a bar .
It 's hard to stay six feet apart .
It 's hard to constantly wash your hands and not touch surfaces other people have touched , '' says Dr. Thomas Tsai , a professor at Harvard University 's T. H. Chan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or those you live with are high risk , or you live in a place with a lot of community spread right now ( look up your state or county here ) , it 's probably best to sit out any situation where you will be drinking in a group .
If you are planning to go out — or to host a shindig — read on for advice to stay safe .
To understand how serious the risks of large alcohol-based gatherings are , consider the case of Harper 's Restaurant and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This popular college student hangout spot was linked to more than 150 coronavirus cases from exposure between June 12 and 20 .
Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail says she was first tipped off to the outbreak when two people who had gone to the pub on different days tested positive .
When her staff showed up to inspect the bar , it appeared that public health guidance was being followed .
The tables were six feet apart .
The staff were wearing masks .
But Vail says social media told a different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giant crowded lines outside and videos of indoors where people were standing up packed together , out on the dance floor , '' Vail says .
`` It tends to be a place where people just get up and walk around , crowd together , dance , all those sorts of things . ''
The facility soon shut down .
Similar stories are popping up all over the country .
Recently , states like Arizona , Texas and Florida have shut down bars , clubs and other venues out of concern they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tsai and his colleagues have studied the effect of lock down restrictions in different states using Google mobility data .
One of their conclusions was that `` limits on bars and restaurants appeared to be the single most effective social distancing order . ''
But people want to socialize , especially on a long summer weekend .
While there are no guarantees , public health experts say there are some general principles and specific precautions that can guide any group gathering .
Think of each measure as one more layer of protection that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus .
Stay outside , but do n't let that make you cavalier First , a backyard barbecue is much better than a crowded indoor party .
`` Outside activities , you are definitely safer than inside activities , '' says Dr. Nate Smith , president of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials .
`` There are a lot of things that can be done outdoors safely . ''
Research shows the chance of catching the virus goes down significantly when you 're outdoors .
`` You get better dilution with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a good inactivator of the virus , '' says Scott Meschke , a professor of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences at the University of Washington .
But that still does n't mean you should forego precautions like wearing masks and social distancing .
`` If people are outdoors and congregating together , without masks right next to each other , shoulder to shoulder , then they are still at risk , '' says Dr. Rachel Levine , Pennsylvania 's health secretary .
Speaking generates a cloud of tiny particles that can reach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other , especially if someone is n't wearing a mask .
`` If we 're close together , you 're inhaling a very concentrated cloud .
And in that situation , I think you 're getting a pretty significant dose in your respiratory system , '' says Dr. Richard Corsi , Dean of Maseeh College of Engineering & Computer Science at Portland State University .
Scientists do n't yet understand what `` dose '' of the virus leads to someone becoming infected and then developing COVID-19 .
That depends on a variety of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spend in a space with the virus , the concentration of infectious virus in the air and how heavily you are breathing , among other things .
`` I think the most prudent thing to do at this point is just lower your dose as much as possible , '' says Corsi .
Indoor gatherings pose a higher risk because it 's generally harder to avoid close interactions , and there is n't as much air flow , either .
Spaces without good ventilation can have tiny aerosolized particles hanging in the room @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's not yet clear exactly how much of a role this plays in spreading infection , but there 's growing evidence it can be significant .
So what does all this mean for hanging out inside ?
Corsi says the best approach is to `` make the indoor environment more like the outdoor environment where we know the transmission is much lower . ''
That means keeping the room well ventilated and regularly refilled with an outdoor supply of air .
If nothing else , open the windows and turn on fans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where the air seems stagnant .
And , of course , always wear your mask .
During the pandemic , the best kind of party to host or to attend is for VIPs only .
`` Keep the occupancy numbers low enough so people are not on top of each other , '' says Meschke .
Meschke advises limiting gatherings to close contacts who you know are being careful , and focus on what you can personally control , like maintaining distance from others and minimizing your time in confined spaces .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to lose track of things , '' says Meschke .
Important things , like getting way too up close and personal , talking too loud , neglecting a mask or touching your face .
This is not a good moment to expand your social bubble or let your guard down .
`` There is no threshold here , '' says Meschke .
`` Right place .
Right time .
Right host .
And you can get infected . ''
How do you wear a mask while drinking ?
Experts ( and common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wear a mask while you 're drinking and eating .
`` Of course , you 'll have to pull your mask down , '' says Dr. Rachel Levine .
Levine says do your best to leave room around yourself while you 're consuming your beverages or barbeque .
Then mask up , again .
`` When people are not actively eating and drinking , make sure they 're wearing their masks and that there is social distancing as much as possible , '' Levine says .
Keep the noise down Even outdoors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are shouting .
If you 're the host , keep any music low , to limit the need for people to shout over background noise .
Shouting or even talking loudly at close range can lead to more droplets being expelled .
And no sing-alongs or karaoke .
Singing can be a particularly potent way of spreading small droplets that contain the virus .
If you 're at a gathering where the noise levels are rising and you start to notice people shouting , it 's probably time to call it a night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind for your hands If you 're hosting , stock up on the sanitizer , suggests Meschke .
`` Make handwashing or hand scrubs readily available , keep squirt bottles on every table , '' he says .
If you 're going out , put a mini-bottle in your purse and use it often , whenever you touch shared surfaces , and especially after using the bathroom .
This is not the year to have a gorgeous spread of finger food for your guests .
`` I would urge people to not share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your household , '' said infectious disease specialist Dr. Joshua Barocas , at a recent briefing by the Infectious Diseases Society of America .
This includes food , utensils , bottles of rum , pitchers of punch , you name it .
So bring your own goodies , or eat before you go .
And beyond that , come stocked with your own sunscreen , bug spray and wipes and drinking water .
`` Avoid sharing items .
Anything that you can do to limit your physical interactions with others will help reduce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Be particularly careful of bathrooms .
First , people tend to crowd outside while waiting for their turn .
Once inside , take caution not to touch lots of surfaces , which would have been contaminated .
Always wash hands carefully when you 're finished .
If you can , do n't hang out too long in the bathroom .
New research shows that flushing a toilet can release lingering clouds of coronavirus particles found in fecal matter into the air .
It 's unclear whether you can actually get infected this way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be safe .

Bars Are Reopening In Some Places And Closing In Others. If You Go, Know The Risks
Enlarge this image toggle caption Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
Updated July 6, 6:15 p.m. ET
Wanting to get together with friends for a few drinks, but nervous about the coronavirus?
With new infections climbing in most states, infectious disease experts discourage group get-togethers, especially ones that involves drinking. Bottom line: Watch out for parties or bars.
"It's really hard to wear a mask in a bar. It's hard to stay six feet apart. It's hard to constantly wash your hands and not touch surfaces other people have touched," says Dr. Thomas Tsai, a professor at Harvard University's T. H. Chan School of Public Health.
These settings, he explains, tend to lead to a breakdown of the very behaviors that help prevent new infections. It's a dangerous mix: socializing in large groups, sometimes in tight spaces, and drinking, which lowers inhibitions and makes it less likely people stick to wearing masks and keeping their distance. Plus party-goers end up talking loudly, which only increases the chance of spraying virus-laden particles on others, especially indoors.
If you or those you live with are high risk, or you live in a place with a lot of community spread right now (look up your state or county here), it's probably best to avoid bars — if they're even open — and to sit out any situation where you will be drinking in a group. If you are planning to go out — or to host a shindig — read on for advice to lower the risks.
150 coronavirus cases from one bar
To understand how serious the risks of large alcohol-based gatherings are, consider the case of Harper's Restaurant and Brewpub in East Lansing, Mich. This popular college student hangout spot was linked to more than 150 coronavirus cases from exposure between June 12 and 20.
Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail says she was first tipped off to the outbreak when two people who had gone to the pub on different days tested positive. When her staff showed up to inspect the bar, it appeared that public health guidance was being followed. The tables were 6 feet apart. The staff were wearing masks. But Vail says social media told a different story.
"There were pictures of giant crowded lines outside and videos of indoors where people were standing up packed together, out on the dance floor," Vail says. "It tends to be a place where people just get up and walk around, crowd together, dance, all those sorts of things."
The facility soon shut down.
Similar stories are popping up all over the country. Recently, states like Arizona, Texas and Florida have shut down bars, clubs and other venues out of concern they were contributing to a surge in cases.
Tsai and his colleagues have studied the effect of lock-down restrictions in different states using Google mobility data. One of their conclusions was that "limits on bars and restaurants appeared to be the single most effective social distancing order."
But people want to socialize, especially on a long summer weekend. While there are no guarantees, public health experts say there are some general principles and specific precautions that can guide any group gathering. Think of each measure as one more layer of protection that can minimize your risk of catching the virus.
Stay outside, but don't let that make you cavalier
First, an outdoor patio at a pub or a backyard barbecue is better than a crowded indoor gathering.
"Outside activities, you are definitely safer than inside activities," says Dr. Nate Smith, president of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. "There are a lot of things that can be done outdoors safely."
Research shows the chance of catching the virus goes down significantly when you're outdoors.
"You get better dilution with air movement in the outdoors. Sunlight is a good inactivator of the virus," says Scott Meschke, a professor of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences at the University of Washington.
But that still doesn't mean you should forego precautions like wearing masks and social distancing.
"If people are outdoors and congregating together, without masks right next to each other, shoulder to shoulder, then they are still at risk," says Dr. Rachel Levine, Pennsylvania's health secretary.
Monitor your personal air space
Speaking generates a cloud of tiny particles that can reach another person if you are near each other, especially if someone isn't wearing a mask.
"If we're close together, you're inhaling a very concentrated cloud. And in that situation, I think you're getting a pretty significant dose in your respiratory system," says Dr. Richard Corsi, Dean of Maseeh College of Engineering & Computer Science at Portland State University.
Scientists don't yet understand what "dose" of the virus leads to someone becoming infected and then developing COVID-19. That depends on a variety of factors like the amount of time you spend in a space with the virus, the concentration of infectious virus in the air and how heavily you are breathing, among other things.
"I think the most prudent thing to do at this point is just lower your dose as much as possible," says Corsi.
Indoors? Pay attention to ventilation
The close quarters of a bar, or private indoor gatherings, pose a higher risk because it's generally harder to avoid close interactions, and there isn't as much air flow, either.
Spaces without good ventilation can have tiny, aerosolized particles hanging in the room's air and possibly infecting people. Corsi says it's not yet clear exactly how much of a role this plays in spreading infection, but there's growing evidence it can be significant.
So what does all this mean for hanging out inside?
Corsi says the best approach is to "make the indoor environment more like the outdoor environment where we know the transmission is much lower."
That means keeping the room well ventilated and regularly refilled with an outdoor supply of air. If nothing else, open the windows and turn on fans. Avoid places that are poorly ventilated where the air seems stagnant.
And, of course, always wear your mask.
Think small and exclusive
During the pandemic, the best kind of party to host or attend is for VIPs only. "Keep the occupancy numbers low enough so people are not on top of each other," says Meschke.
Meschke advises limiting gatherings to close contacts who you know are being careful, and focus on what you can personally control, like maintaining distance from others and minimizing your time in confined spaces.
"If people are drinking, people are going to lose track of things," says Meschke. Important things, like getting way too up close and personal, talking too loud, neglecting a mask or touching your face.
This is not a good moment to expand your social bubble or let your guard down. "There is no threshold here," says Meschke. "Right place. Right time. Right host. And you can get infected."
How do you wear a mask while drinking?
Experts (and common sense) agree: It's difficult to wear a mask while you're drinking and eating.
"Of course, you'll have to pull your mask down," says Dr. Rachel Levine.
Levine says do your best to leave room around yourself while you're consuming your beverages or barbeque. Then mask up, again.
"When people are not actively eating and drinking, make sure they're wearing their masks and that there is social distancing as much as possible," Levine says.
Keep the noise down
Even outdoors, try to avoid situations where people are shouting. If you're the host, keep any music low, to limit the need for people to shout over background noise. Shouting or even talking loudly at close range can lead to more droplets being expelled. And no sing-alongs or karaoke. Singing can be a particularly potent way of spreading small droplets that contain the virus.
If you're at a pub or a party where the noise levels are rising and you start to notice people shouting, it's probably time to call it a night.
Have plenty of alcohol — the kind for your hands
If you're hosting, stock up on the sanitizer, suggests Meschke. "Make handwashing or hand scrubs readily available, keep squirt bottles on every table," he says.
If you're going out, put a mini-bottle in your purse and use it often, whenever you touch shared surfaces, and especially after using the bathroom.
BYO-Everything
This is not the year to have a gorgeous spread of finger food for party guests. "I would urge people to not share food or drinks with others outside of your household," said infectious disease specialist Dr. Joshua Barocas, at a recent briefing by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. This includes food, utensils, bottles of rum, pitchers of punch, you name it.
So if you've been invited somewhere, bring your own goodies, or eat before you go. And beyond that, come stocked with your own sunscreen, bug spray and wipes and drinking water. "Avoid sharing items. Anything that you can do to limit your physical interactions with others will help reduce the spread," says Barocas.
Bathrooms beware
Be particularly careful of public bathrooms.
First, people tend to crowd outside while waiting for their turn — keep your distance. Once inside, take caution not to touch lots of surfaces, which would have been contaminated. Always wash hands carefully when you're finished. If you can, don't hang out too long in the bathroom. New research shows that flushing a toilet can release lingering clouds of coronavirus particles found in fecal matter into the air. It's unclear whether you can actually get infected this way. Wear a mask, just to be safe.


npr--2020-07-03--Coronavirus World Map: Tracking The Spread Of The Outbreak

Coronavirus World Map : Tracking The Spread Of The Outbreak Since the new coronavirus was first reported in Wuhan , China , in December , the infectious respiratory disease COVID-19 has spread rapidly within China and to neighboring countries and beyond .
The first confirmed coronavirus cases outside China occurred on Jan. 20 , in Japan , Thailand and South Korea .
On Jan. 21 , the first case in the U.S. was identified in Washington state .
On Jan. 24 , the first two European cases were confirmed in France .
By Feb. 1 , eight European nations had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month later that count had risen to 24 countries with at least 2,200 cases , most of them in Italy .
On March 11 , Italy eclipsed 10,000 cases and the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a pandemic — the first since H1N1 in 2009 .
That 's also when China , the original epicenter , began seeing drops in daily counts of new cases .
March also saw exponential spread of the virus throughout the U.S. , with all 50 states reporting cases by March 17 .
This particular virus , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the third strain of coronavirus known to frequently cause severe symptoms in humans .
The other two strains cause Middle East respiratory syndrome and severe acute respiratory syndrome .
Click here to see the state-by-state breakdown of cases in the United States .
This story was originally published on March 30 , 2020 .

Coronavirus world map: We've now passed the 600 million mark for infections
Editor's note: This page is no longer being updated. The last update was Sept. 5, 2022. For current data about COVID-19 cases and deaths around the world, Johns Hopkins University and Our World in Data are useful resources.
In late January 2020 only a few dozen COVID-19 infections had been identified outside of China. A year later, the world tallied its first 100 million cases. It took the globe just 7 more months to pass the 200 million mark— then another 5 months to hit 300 million, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins University. Now the virus has spread to every corner of the globe and has been blamed for more than 6 million deaths.
The United States, India and Brazil in that order have had the most COVID cases and the three nations collectively account for almost half of all recorded infections so far in the pandemic.
Explore the chart below to find a country-by-country breakdown of new and total cases since January 2020.
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Explore how the number of coronavirus cases have shifted in different parts of the world over time. The first chart compares each continent to each other, while the next charts highlight the number of cases in select countries by region.
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This story was originally published on March 30, 2020.


npr--2020-07-03--Tracking The Pandemic: Are Coronavirus Cases Rising Or Falling In Your State?

Tracking The Pandemic : Are Coronavirus Cases Rising Or Falling In Your State ?
More than 2.5 million people in the U.S. have tested positive for the coronavirus and more than 125,000 have died .
Though growth in new cases slowed in late spring , by mid-June new cases began to trend upward nationally .
In the graphics below , explore the trend in new cases in your state to see whether cases are rising , falling or staying level .
You can view the data via a heat map ( immediately below ) , a curve chart and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case trends over the last three weeks .
Or to see states ' total cases and deaths on a map , click here .
The following chart displays states ' trends in new daily case counts , total cases , and per capita totals .
To compare state outbreaks , the trend lines for average new daily cases are graphed against each state 's total case count to date .
This highlights a state 's daily growth relative to the overall size of its outbreak .
When both new and total case counts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As cases slow , the curve levels or bends down .
In New York , site of the country 's largest outbreak , the state 's curve rose sharply before reaching over 170,000 total cases in April .
Since then , new cases have fallen from about 10,000 per day in mid-April to fewer than 700 per day in late June .
Some states , such as Hawaii , have declined to just a dozen new cases per day , while others are growing .
Arizona , which had leveled off at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw a sudden sharp spike in new cases in June .
The coronavirus has hit some states much harder than others .
For much of the pandemic , a large share of U.S. cases have been centered around New York City .
As of early June , New York state , Connecticut and New Jersey accounted for about 30 % of total cases in the nation and 42 % of deaths , although new cases have been dropping in these three states .
Across the country , other large , populous states such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high totals as well .
Some smaller states have had a heavy burden of disease relative to their population size , such as Nebraska and Iowa , which have high case counts per capita , and Louisiana and Michigan which have a high death count per capita .
Explore the map below to see totals and per capita figures around the country .
Click here to see a global map of confirmed cases and deaths .
For more detail on your state , the table below shows the change in average new cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over week .
States marked in shades of red are showing growth , those in shades of green , are showing declines .
The graphics on this page pull from data compiled by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University from several sources , including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ; the World Health Organization ; national , state and local government health departments ; 1point3acres ; and local media reports .
The JHU team automates its data uploads and regularly checks them for anomalies .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this page as the JHU team resolves anomalies and updates its feeds .
State-by-state recovery data are unavailable at this time .
There may be discrepancies between what you see here and what you see on your local health department 's website .
Figures shown do not include cases on cruise ships .
In early June , Michigan health authorities started including probable cases in its totals .
This resulted in a brief spike in the state 's daily numbers until the JHU team was able to reconcile the historical data .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previously-unreported probable deaths in its totals , resulting in a spike in the state 's daily death numbers .
This story was originally published on March 16 , 2020 .
Elena Renken was a co-author on that version .
Sean McMinn contributed to and Carmel Wroth edited this story .

Tracking the coronavirus around the U.S.: See how your state is doing
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Note: This page was last updated on Feb. 1, 2023. It will no longer be updated. For current data on COVID cases and deaths, demographics, and hospitalizations, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
As of Feb. 1, there have been more than 101 million confirmed coronavirus infections in the U.S. and more than 1 million people have died of COVID-19. In the graphics below, explore the trends in your state.
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The above charts show average new cases per 100,000 people for each state over the last 12 months.
Note: Actual cases may be substantially higher, since many who test positive with at-home tests don't report their cases.
For additional data about COVID-19 in the U.S, including cases and deaths, demographics, and hospitalizations, consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
To show trends, the table below shows the change in average new cases per day in each state, week over week for the last 28 days. States marked in shades of red have growing outbreaks; those in shades of green, are declining.
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Methodology
The graphics on this page pull from data compiled by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University from several sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; the World Health Organization; national, state and local government health departments; 1point3acres; and local media reports.
The JHU team automates its data uploads and regularly checks them for anomalies. This may result in occasional data discrepancies on this page as the JHU team resolves anomalies and updates its feeds. There may be discrepancies between what you see here and what you see on your local health department's website. Figures shown do not include cases on cruise ships.
Fluctuations in the numbers may happen as health authorities review old cases, process testing backlogs or update their methodologies. The JHU team maintains a list of such changes.
This story was originally published on March 16, 2020. Elena Renken was a co-author on that version. Sean McMinn and Audrey Carlsen contributed to this story. Carmel Wroth edited this story.


npr--2020-07-04--Coronavirus World Map: Tracking The Spread Of The Outbreak


npr--2020-07-04--Tracking The Pandemic: Are Coronavirus Cases Rising Or Falling In Your State?


npr--2020-07-04--New Idaho Laws Target Transgender Residents

Two new laws went into effect in Idaho this week that target transgender residents .
The enactment comes on the heels of a major U.S. Supreme Court decision in June , which greatly expanded LGBTQ rights .
One of the laws bans transgender people from changing the sex on their birth certificates while the other bars transgender girls and women from playing on sports teams that align with their gender identity .
`` We are trying to solve a problem that does n't exist , '' said Chris Mosier , the first transgender person to qualify for an Olympic trial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ domination by transgender women and girls . ''
Earlier this year , as the bills came before Idaho 's legislature , protesters rallied outside the state capitol in Boise in an effort to uphold transgender rights .
Mosier was at that rally in March , urging Idaho lawmakers to reject the bills .
`` This is not just about transgender athletes .
This is the gateway to creating more discrimination , more discriminative policies against trans people , '' he said .
Big businesses in Idaho spoke out , too .
Tech giants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clif Bar and the yogurt maker Chobani sent a letter to state legislators saying the proposals would hurt their recruitment efforts .
`` If we 're not able to attract that talent , ultimately , we do n't get to the best innovation and that 's what we 're all striving for , '' said Sharawn Connors , Micron 's Vice President for Diversity , Equality and Inclusion .
`` On top of that , it 's the right thing to do .
But it 's good for business as well . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the legislature passed the bills and Gov .
Brad Little signed them into law .
They went into affect July 1 .
The transgender athlete ban law is the first of its kind in the country .
State Rep. Barbara Ehardt , a former collegiate basketball coach , sponsored it .
During the floor debate in the Idaho House , Ehardt defended the move as protecting access to sports for who she calls `` biological '' girls and women .
`` You see , in sports we have requirements .
We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feelings , `` Ehardt said .
`` We have these in order to participate to ensure fairness for all . ''
The law is now being challenged in federal court .
It faces an uphill battle there due to the Supreme Court 's recent LGBTQ employment decision , according to Richard Seamon , a constitutional law professor at University of Idaho .
`` The court 's decision is going to support arguments that the concept of sex discrimination should be understood broadly in all of the areas – including public accommodations – where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The law that bans people from changing the sex on their birth certificate comes into effect just as Oliver Johnson-Waskow was in the process of changing the sex on his identity documents .
`` Having to see my old name , or a dead name on paper , hear it over the phone , anything , it really is a big trigger for my gender dysphoria , '' Johnson-Waskow said .
Gender dysphoria is a condition where the mismatch between a person 's sex assigned at birth and their gender identity can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Backers of the law banning changes to birth certificates argue the data is vital for tracking public health issues , for instance whether men or women are more affected by certain illnesses such as heart disease or high blood pressure .
But Johnson-Waskow said that information could be easily stored in a separate database .
`` That seems like something pretty simple , to me , and something that we could easily do without hurting these individuals and hurting myself included . ''
Two years ago , a federal judge blocked an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people from changing their birth certificates .
The state began accepting birth certificate changes in 2018 , but this new law replaces that policy .
The same judge recently reaffirmed her permanent injunction last month , but declined to rule on the constitutionality of the law .
Now , LGBTQ advocates are weighing another legal challenge .

New Idaho Laws Target Transgender Residents
Enlarge this image toggle caption James Dawson/Boise State Public Radio James Dawson/Boise State Public Radio
Two new laws went into effect in Idaho this week that target transgender residents. The enactment comes on the heels of a major U.S. Supreme Court decision in June, which greatly expanded LGBTQ rights.
One of the laws bans transgender people from changing the sex on their birth certificates while the other bars transgender girls and women from playing on sports teams that align with their gender identity.
"We are trying to solve a problem that doesn't exist," said Chris Mosier, the first transgender person to qualify for an Olympic trial. "We are not seeing widespread domination by transgender women and girls."
Earlier this year, as the bills came before Idaho's legislature, protesters rallied outside the state Capitol in Boise in an effort to uphold transgender rights. Mosier was at that rally in March, urging Idaho lawmakers to reject the bills.
"This is not just about transgender athletes. This is the gateway to creating more discrimination, more discriminative policies against trans people," he said.
Big businesses in Idaho spoke out, too. Tech giants HP and Micron, as well as Clif Bar and the yogurt maker Chobani, sent a letter to state legislators saying the proposals would hurt their recruitment efforts.
"If we're not able to attract that talent, ultimately, we don't get to the best innovation and that's what we're all striving for,"said Sharawn Connors, Micron's vice president for diversity, equality and inclusion. "On top of that, it's the right thing to do. But it's good for business as well."
Despite the businesses' lobbying and protests, the legislature passed the bills and Gov. Brad Little signed them into law. They went into effect July 1.
The transgender athlete ban law is the first of its kind in the country. State Rep. Barbara Ehardt, a former collegiate basketball coach, sponsored it. During the floor debate in the Idaho House, Ehardt defended the move as protecting access to sports for who she calls "biological" girls and women.
"You see, in sports we have requirements. We have standards, and it is not based on feelings, "Ehardt said. "We have these in order to participate to ensure fairness for all."
Discrimination broadly understood
The law is now being challenged in federal court. It faces an uphill battle there in light of the Supreme Court's recent LGBTQ employment decision, according to Richard Seamon, a constitutional law professor at University of Idaho.
"The court's decision is going to support arguments that the concept of sex discrimination should be understood broadly in all of the areas — including public accommodations — where it's prohibited," Seamon said.
The law that bans people from changing the sex on their birth certificate comes into effect just as Oliver Johnson-Waskow was in the process of changing the sex on his identity documents.
"Having to see my old name, or a dead name on paper, hear it over the phone, anything, it really is a big trigger for my gender dysphoria," Johnson-Waskow said.
Gender dysphoria is a condition where the mismatch between a person's sex assigned at birth and their gender identity can cause a lot of anxiety and stress.
Sports Should Transgender Students Be Allowed To Compete In Women's Athletics? Should Transgender Students Be Allowed To Compete In Women's Athletics? Listen · 3:41 3:41
Backers of the law banning changes to birth certificates argue the data is vital for tracking public health issues, for instance whether men or women are more affected by certain illnesses such as heart disease or high blood pressure.
But Johnson-Waskow said that information could be easily stored in a separate database.
"That seems like something pretty simple, to me, and something that we could easily do without hurting these individuals and hurting myself included."
Two years ago, a federal judge blocked an administrative policy in Idaho that prevented transgender people from changing their birth certificates. The state began accepting birth certificate changes in 2018, but this new law replaces that policy.
The same judge recently reaffirmed her permanent injunction last month but declined to rule on the constitutionality of the law. Now, LGBTQ advocates are weighing another legal challenge.


npr--2020-07-04--International Flights Are Ramping Up. Slowly. And With Plenty Of Caveats

International Flights Are Ramping Up .
Slowly .
And With Plenty Of Caveats I 've been stranded in Kenya since March , trying to get a `` repatriation '' flight to return home to the United States .
I was finally able to book a flight but I 'm still not sure I 'll be able to board at the scheduled departure time – a week from Saturday .
Not only are cancellations part of the new normal for international flights , but passengers in some countries need to present evidence they 're likely not infected with the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kenya , that means going to a private laboratory chain within 72 hours of my scheduled departure time and undergoing a COVID-19 test , which will cost about 8,000 shillings — about $ 80 .
The lab will provide documentation of my test results which I must present to airline staff at check-in .
As governments worldwide ease lockdown restrictions and lift bans on international travel , travelers will have lots of questions about how to proceed .
Whether you are an expatriate hoping to return to your home country , a traveler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that requires an international trip or a tourist willing to consider a holiday in another country , here is what you need to know .
First : Flight schedules remain uncertain with frequent and last-minute cancellations and changes in departure dates and times , mainly because airlines ca n't fill enough seats on the plane to make it financially worth it .
To make life less painful for passengers in these uncertain times , many airlines have dropped fees for changing flights and are even honoring unused but expired tickets .
Second : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to travelers from select countries where there is a low or declining number of new COVID-19 cases .
Those in countries such as the U.S. , Brazil and Russia , where outbreaks are still surging , will not be permitted to enter any European country that has recently opened its borders , for instance .
Cyprus will only allow incoming flights from about 35 mostly European countries , and Thailand will only allow in certain groups of foreigners such as students studying at Thai schools , those with valid work permits or spouses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airlines and destination countries are now requiring passengers to undergo COVID-19 testing prior to boarding a flight and to provide a variety of paperwork proving they do not have the respiratory illness .
Kenyan citizens returning home from India , for instance , are required to provide an electronic note from a physician confirming they have tested negative for the virus before they are allowed to fly .
Those flying Kenya Airways have to arrange for a COVID-19 PCR test , which determines if a person is contagious within 72 hours of their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airline staff at check-in .
Emirates airline has been conducting rapid COVID-19 blood tests at the airport , which take 10 minutes to return a result , for passengers flying through Dubai to destination countries that require documentation that you 're COVID-19-free .
Other airlines similarly require passengers to be tested between 2 to 7 days before their scheduled departure .
Dr. Lin Chen , an associate professor at Harvard Medical School and president of the International Society of Travel Medicine , says that requiring passengers to show proof of their virus-free status @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help prevent the transmission of the disease both during the flight and once passengers reach their destination .
However , these new measures are not perfect .
Prospective travelers may test negative for COVID-19 days before their flight but can still be exposed to the virus between the time they go for testing and the time they board .
Moreover , COVID-19 testing is not foolproof .
Testing may not be done properly and even if it is , there can be false negatives which might allow contagious individuals to board a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your country of residence , it may be difficult to get tested if there is a shortage of testing centers , health-care staff or testing equipment .
And in some countries , expats may not be eligible to receive care from public health services while private health insurance policies may not cover the cost of testing if the test is not considered medically necessary .
Apart from logistical challenges , the looming question remains : is it safe to travel ?
Scientific studies and outbreak investigations have found that COVID-19 transmission in crowded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , churches and factories can be explosive .
But according to Chen , transmission of COVID-19 between passengers on airplanes is rare .
On one January flight from China to Canada , a passenger with a symptomatic case of COVID-19 did not infect any of the 350 passengers on board , according to a brief report by Canadian researchers .
Similarly , on a flight from New York to Taipei , a passenger with COVID-19 also did not infect anyone else on board , according to Chen .
The U.S. Centers for Disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of getting an infectious disease on a flight is low while the United Nation 's International Civil Aviation Organization states on its website that restricting international travel is not an effective means of containing outbreaks .
Yet despite these reassurances , there are documented cases of transmission of COVID-19 on an airplane .
On a March 2 flight from London to Vietnam , a woman who was infected with the virus went on to infect at least 13 other passengers , according to Vietnam 's Ministry of Health .
The IATA , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Organization , and the US Federal Aviation Association have all released guidelines for travel during the pandemic , and many airlines have adapted them and introduced protective measures to keep crew and passengers safe .
For example , many airlines have stopped giving passengers reusable items such as blankets , magazines and headphones and have increased layover times and time between flights to allow for more thorough cleaning of the cabins .
Most , if not all , airlines have also installed high efficiency particulate air , or HEPA , filtration systems which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most systems used in hospital isolation rooms , Chen says .
Airlines provide information about their air filtration systems on their websites .
Chen says that passengers can further protect themselves by following all the anti-virus guidelines they would follow outside of the plane including wearing a mask , washing hands and practicing social distancing as much as possible .
In addition , Dr. Chen recommends passengers avoid crowded areas of the airport , carry hand wipes , sanitize or avoid `` high-touch '' areas and bring their own food .
In addition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the current COVID-19 situation in their prospective destination country and the country 's capacity to test and treat people with the viral illness .
She also suggests finding out if the destination country has policies requiring people to wear masks in public or encouraging hand-washing and practicing social distancing while on public transit , grocery stores and other public-gathering places .
Prospective travelers can find this information on national and international health agency websites including the World Health Organization and CDC and from health ministries , immigration offices and embassies in destination countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if travel is optional , that only you can answer .
`` For tourism or adventure travel , the individual traveler has to consider their own personal risk and whether they tolerate that potential risk of getting infected and whether they might bring it home to their family or community especially if they have older family members who are more susceptible to severe disease , '' Chen says .

International Flights Are Ramping Up. Slowly. And With Plenty Of Caveats
Enlarge this image toggle caption Anwar Amro/AFP via Getty Images Anwar Amro/AFP via Getty Images
I've been stranded in Kenya since March, trying to get a "repatriation" flight to return home to the United States. I was finally able to book a flight but I'm still not sure I'll be able to board at the scheduled departure time – a week from Saturday. Not only are cancellations part of the new normal for international flights, but passengers in some countries need to present evidence they're likely not infected with the novel coronavirus before being allowed to board.
In Kenya, that means going to a private laboratory chain within 72 hours of my scheduled departure time and undergoing a COVID-19 test, which will cost about 8,000 shillings — about $80. The lab will provide documentation of my test results which I must present to airline staff at check-in.
As governments worldwide ease lockdown restrictions and lift bans on international travel, travelers will have lots of questions about how to proceed. Whether you are an expatriate hoping to return to your home country, a traveler with an urgent personal or business matter that requires an international trip or a tourist willing to consider a holiday in another country, here is what you need to know.
First: Flight schedules remain uncertain with frequent and last-minute cancellations and changes in departure dates and times, mainly because airlines can't fill enough seats on the plane to make it financially worth it. To make life less painful for passengers in these uncertain times, many airlines have dropped fees for changing flights and are even honoring unused but expired tickets.
Second: Some destinations have only opened their borders to travelers from select countries where there is a low or declining number of new COVID-19 cases. Those in countries such as the U.S., Brazil and Russia, where outbreaks are still surging, will not be permitted to enter any European country that has recently opened its borders, for instance. Cyprus will only allow incoming flights from about 35 mostly European countries, and Thailand will only allow in certain groups of foreigners such as students studying at Thai schools, those with valid work permits or spouses of Thai nationals.
Third: Many airlines and destination countries are now requiring passengers to undergo COVID-19 testing prior to boarding a flight and to provide a variety of paperwork proving they do not have the respiratory illness. Kenyan citizens returning home from India, for instance, are required to provide an electronic note from a physician confirming they have tested negative for the virus before they are allowed to fly. Those flying Kenya Airways have to arrange for a COVID-19 PCR test, which determines if a person is contagious within 72 hours of their flight and present negative test results to airline staff at check-in. Emirates airline has been conducting rapid COVID-19 blood tests at the airport, which take 10 minutes to return a result, for passengers flying through Dubai to destination countries that require documentation that you're COVID-19-free. Other airlines similarly require passengers to be tested between 2 to 7 days before their scheduled departure.
Dr. Lin Chen, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School and president of the International Society of Travel Medicine, says that requiring passengers to show proof of their virus-free status is, overall, a good step to help prevent the transmission of the disease both during the flight and once passengers reach their destination.
However, these new measures are not perfect. Prospective travelers may test negative for COVID-19 days before their flight but can still be exposed to the virus between the time they go for testing and the time they board.
Moreover, COVID-19 testing is not foolproof. Testing may not be done properly and even if it is, there can be false negatives which might allow contagious individuals to board a flight. Another consideration: Depending on your country of residence, it may be difficult to get tested if there is a shortage of testing centers, health-care staff or testing equipment. And in some countries, expats may not be eligible to receive care from public health services while private health insurance policies may not cover the cost of testing if the test is not considered medically necessary.
Apart from logistical challenges, the looming question remains: is it safe to travel?
Scientific studies and outbreak investigations have found that COVID-19 transmission in crowded, indoor spaces such as cruise ships, churches and factories can be explosive.
But according to Chen, transmission of COVID-19 between passengers on airplanes is rare.
On one January flight from China to Canada, a passenger with a symptomatic case of COVID-19 did not infect any of the 350 passengers on board, according to a brief report by Canadian researchers. Similarly, on a flight from New York to Taipei, a passenger with COVID-19 also did not infect anyone else on board, according to Chen.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also asserts that the risk of getting an infectious disease on a flight is low while the United Nation's International Civil Aviation Organization states on its website that restricting international travel is not an effective means of containing outbreaks.
Yet despite these reassurances, there are documented cases of transmission of COVID-19 on an airplane. On a March 2 flight from London to Vietnam, a woman who was infected with the virus went on to infect at least 13 other passengers, according to Vietnam's Ministry of Health.
The IATA, International Civil Aviation Organization, World Health Organization, and the US Federal Aviation Association have all released guidelines for travel during the pandemic, and many airlines have adapted them and introduced protective measures to keep crew and passengers safe. For example, many airlines have stopped giving passengers reusable items such as blankets, magazines and headphones and have increased layover times and time between flights to allow for more thorough cleaning of the cabins. Most, if not all,airlines have also installed high efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filtration systems which are better at cleaning the air than most systems used in hospital isolation rooms, Chen says. Airlines provide information about their air filtration systems on their websites.
Chen says that passengers can further protect themselves by following all the anti-virus guidelines they would follow outside of the plane including wearing a mask, washing hands and practicing social distancing as much as possible. In addition, Dr. Chen recommends passengers avoid crowded areas of the airport, carry hand wipes, sanitize or avoid "high-touch" areas and bring their own food.
In addition, says Chen, travelers should research the current COVID-19 situation in their prospective destination country and the country's capacity to test and treat people with the viral illness. She also suggests finding out if the destination country has policies requiring people to wear masks in public or encouraging hand-washing and practicing social distancing while on public transit, grocery stores and other public-gathering places. Prospective travelers can find this information on national and international health agency websites including the World Health Organization and CDC and from health ministries, immigration offices and embassies in destination countries.
And then there are questions, if travel is optional, that only you can answer."For tourism or adventure travel, the individual traveler has to consider their own personal risk and whether they tolerate that potential risk of getting infected and whether they might bring it home to their family or community especially if they have older family members who are more susceptible to severe disease," Chen says.


npr--2020-07-04--Progressives Surge In Congressional Democratic Primaries

The progressive wing of the Democratic Party could n't break through in the presidential race , but in congressional races , younger , more diverse , progressive candidates are enjoying a recent surge in support .
`` The logic of COVID-19 as well as the logic and the righteousness of the movement for black lives , I think , is forcing all of us to re-imagine both what is necessary and what is possible , and I think it 's having an impact on our politics , '' said Maurice Mitchell , national director of the Working Families Party , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Progressive Black , male candidates in New York 's June 23 primaries ( results have not yet been officially called by the Associated Press ) are on track to win in three safe Democratic seats , virtually ensuring they will win in November and serve in the next Congress .
`` Have I benefited from the newfound realization by some folks that we live in a severely unjust society as it concerns issues of race ?
Yes .
Is that why I won ?
No , '' Mondaire Jones told NPR .
Jones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He is on track to win a contested open seat primary for the seat of retiring Rep. Nita Lowey , who represents a mostly white , wealthy , suburban district home to Bill and Hillary Clinton .
Jones said he is winning because of his support of unabashedly liberal ideas .
`` I am the only candidate in a crowded Democratic primary who supports the only policy that would literally ensure everyone has health care in this country and that is Medicare for All , '' he said , in reference to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sen. Bernie Sanders , I-Vt. , in the 2020 presidential primary race .
Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden opposes a government-run health care system , and he secured the nomination in part by locking down the more centrist wing of the Democratic Party .
But in these contested congressional primaries , progressive candidates made races competitive running on some of the party 's most provocative ideas : Medicare for All , the Green New Deal , paths to citizenship for all undocumented workers and dramatic redistributions of wealth .
Another progressive , New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who like Jones is also openly gay , is on track to win a Bronx-based seat to replace retiring Democratic Rep. Jose Serrano , the most Democratic congressional district in the country .
Middle school principal Jamaal Bowman is expected to defeat veteran incumbent Rep. Eliot Engel for his his Bronx-based seat .
Engel has not yet conceded the race .
Bowman attacked Engel for his absence from the district — one of the hardest hit in the nation by COVID-19 — and ran an energized campaign focused on redirecting help to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Poverty is by political design and is rooted in a system that has been fractured and corrupt and rotten from it 's core from the inception of America , '' Bowman said in a primary night speech to supporters .
In the Kentucky Senate Democratic primary , another progressive black candidate , Charles Booker , gave establishment-backed candidate Amy McGrath a close race — coming within 3 % — despite raising around $ 3 million to McGrath 's over $ 40 million and relying on volunteer progressive activists .
Evan Weber , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group focused on combating climate change , backed Booker 's campaign .
He 's clear-eyed about where the progressive wing still stands right now .
`` We 're sort of like a junior party in a governing coalition , '' he said .
But progressive activists are energized by these races and what they could mean .
Waleed Shahid is with Justice Democrats , a group closely aligned with Democratic congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York .
Looking ahead , Shahid says that if Biden wins , the progressive wing will have leverage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is inheriting , if he becomes president in 2021 , looks really different than the one Barack Obama did in 2009 , in terms of how much more muscle the progressives in Congress have , how much more media attention they get , how much more they can hold the president accountable , '' he said .
And there could be a fresh crop of lawmakers , like Jones , Torres and Bowman , among others , coming to Washington to take on the establishment and push the party to the left .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ happy .
I am fired up .
And I ca n't wait to get to Congress and cause problems for the people in there who have been maintaining a status quo that is literally killing our children , '' Bowman said last Tuesday .
Progressives are now working against Democratic incumbents in upcoming primaries in Massachusetts and New Jersey .

Progressives Surge In Congressional Democratic Primaries
Enlarge this image toggle caption John Minchillo/AP John Minchillo/AP
The progressive wing of the Democratic Party couldn't break through in the presidential race, but in congressional races, younger, more diverse, progressive candidates are enjoying a recent surge in support.
"The logic of COVID-19 as well as the logic and the righteousness of the movement for Black lives, I think, is forcing all of us to re-imagine both what is necessary and what is possible, and I think it's having an impact on our politics," said Maurice Mitchell, national director of the Working Families Party, a New York-based minor political party.
Progressive Black, male candidates in New York's June 23 primaries (results have not yet been officially called by the Associated Press) are on track to win in three safe Democratic seats, virtually ensuring they will win in November and serve in the next Congress.
"Have I benefited from the newfound realization by some folks that we live in a severely unjust society as it concerns issues of race? Yes. Is that why I won? No," Mondaire Jones told NPR.
Jones, 33, is also openly gay. He is on track to win a contested open seat primary for the seat of retiring Rep. Nita Lowey, who represents a mostly white, wealthy, suburban district home to Bill and Hillary Clinton.
Jones said he is winning because of his support of unabashedly liberal ideas. "I am the only candidate in a crowded Democratic primary who supports the only policy that would literally ensure everyone has health care in this country and that is Medicare for All," he said, in reference to the government-run health care proposal championed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., in the 2020 presidential primary race.
Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden opposes a government-run health care system, and he secured the nomination in part by locking down the more centrist wing of the Democratic Party. But in these contested congressional primaries, progressive candidates made races competitive running on some of the party's most provocative ideas: Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, paths to citizenship for all undocumented workers and dramatic redistributions of wealth.
Another progressive, New York City Councilman Ritchie Torres, 32, who like Jones is also openly gay, is on track to win a Bronx-based seat to replace retiring Democratic Rep. Jose Serrano, the most Democratic congressional district in the country.
Middle school principal Jamaal Bowman is expected to defeat veteran incumbent Rep. Eliot Engel for his his Bronx-based seat. Engel has not yet conceded the race. Bowman attacked Engel for his absence from the district — one of the hardest hit in the nation by COVID-19 — and ran an energized campaign focused on redirecting help to the poor and working class.
"Poverty is by political design and is rooted in a system that has been fractured and corrupt and rotten from its core from the inception of America," Bowman said in a primary night speech to supporters.
In the Kentucky Senate Democratic primary, another progressive Black candidate, Charles Booker, gave establishment-backed candidate Amy McGrath a close race — coming within 3% — despite raising around $3 million to McGrath's over $40 million and relying on volunteer progressive activists.
Evan Weber, the co-founder the Sunrise Movement, a progressive group focused on combating climate change, backed Booker's campaign. He's clear-eyed about where the progressive wing still stands right now. "We're sort of like a junior party in a governing coalition," he said.
But progressive activists are energized by these races and what they could mean. Waleed Shahid is with Justice Democrats, a group closely aligned with Democratic congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York. Looking ahead, Shahid says that if Biden wins, the progressive wing will have leverage.
"The Congress that Joe Biden is inheriting, if he becomes president in 2021, looks really different than the one Barack Obama did in 2009, in terms of how much more muscle the progressives in Congress have, how much more media attention they get, how much more they can hold the president accountable," he said.
And there could be a fresh crop of lawmakers, like Jones, Torres and Bowman, among others, coming to Washington to take on the establishment and push the party to the left.
"I am excited. I am happy. I am fired up. And I can't wait to get to Congress and cause problems for the people in there who have been maintaining a status quo that is literally killing our children," Bowman said last Tuesday.
Progressives are now working against Democratic incumbents in upcoming primaries in Massachusetts and New Jersey.


npr--2020-07-04--Why Some Young People Fear Social Isolation More Than COVID-19

Why Some Young People Fear Social Isolation More Than COVID-19 Audrey just turned 18 and relishes crossing into adulthood : She voted for the first time this year , graduated high school , and is college-bound next month .
The honors student typically wakes up `` a bundle of nerves , '' she says , which has fueled her work volunteering , playing varsity sports , and leading student government .
But for years , she also struggled with anxiety , depression and obsessive compulsive disorder — all of which drove her to work harder .
`` I was spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I felt like I was losing my friends — so my thoughts would race over and over again about my friends , '' says Audrey .
`` And then I would have the difficult thoughts about suicide and some scarier stuff . ''
( NPR agreed to use only her first name to protect her medical privacy . )
Audrey 's psychological struggles landed her in mental health treatment last fall .
There , she says , the coping skills she learned gave her perspective on quarantine : `` I know all about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — and social interaction — is vital for survival . ''
There is a simmering tension between young people 's desire to gather socially , and the growing threat from the novel coronavirus in the United States .
The virus is infecting more people in their teens and 20s than earlier in the pandemic , and that 's contributing to outbreaks , especially in states in the South and West .
As a result , public health officials are imploring young adults to limit social contact and take precautions to help protect their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people see continued social isolation as a much greater risk than COVID-19 to their own mental health .
It 's not that Audrey is n't worried about the pandemic ; in fact , confirmed cases of the coronavirus are spiking in her hometown of Charlotte , N.C .
So Audrey wears masks , washes her hands , and stays 6 feet from friends .
But for her generation , she says , infection is n't the primary threat .
`` A lot of people are calling attention to coronavirus because it 's right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says .
`` But at the same time , teens ' depression rate — it 's a silent threat . ''
The health risks of infection differ by generation .
For many young adults , life lived at a social distance , with a lack of peer support , comes at a high cost to mental health .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says nearly half of people between 18 and 29 report feeling symptoms of anxiety or depression .
That 's twice the rate for their parents , and three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the second leading cause of death for people under 35 .
Yet somehow , says Audrey , that 's not talked about as much .
`` We have n't seen the government or adults as passionate about the things we really care about , like mental health and climate issues , '' she says .
It might be tempting to think that FaceTime and Zoom provide substitutes for in-person social outlets , especially for a generation of digital natives who grew up with smart phones .
But , therapists say , talking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a calming hug , and can miss the subtleties of a compassionate expression .
Audrey 's complaint is a common refrain among the adolescent and young adult patients psychologist Lisa Jacobs counsels .
It is not that they are n't concerned about the risks of COVID-19 , she says ; it 's just that their risk calculations differ .
`` They are appropriately realizing that isolation is a risk for them as well — it 's a risk factor for depression , and depression is a risk factor for suicide , '' Jacobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American teens attempt suicide each year . ''
Jacobs says many of her young patients complain older generations failed to address the young people 's fears — of school shootings and climate change , for example .
`` After not being protected , after not being taken seriously , they were asked to take extreme measures to protect other groups and to put themselves at risk by doing so , '' Jacobs says .
There is a biological basis for young peoples ' need for socialization .
Scientists say bonding is n't a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Young brains need social connection to feel secure about their identity and place in the world , says Gregory Lewis , who studies the neurobiology of social interaction at Indiana University .
`` We expect as a human being to have other people there to share the stressful times and to be our backup , and when they 're not there physically , that in of itself tells our nervous system you 're in a dangerous environment because you do n't have these people here , '' he says .
That is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Lewis says , who have had more time to develop their social networks — both at work and around their community — and more time to find partners who can help ground them emotionally .
By contrast , he says , `` younger people are missing a larger percentage of what previously was there to buffer them . ''
So the societal challenge , he says , is to find ways to help community members of all ages balance the risks of infection against the need to foster those essential social bonds @

Why Some Young People Fear Social Isolation More Than COVID-19
Enlarge this image toggle caption Cory Clark/NurPhoto via Getty Images Cory Clark/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Audrey just turned 18 and relishes crossing into adulthood: She voted for the first time this year, graduated high school and is college-bound next month. The honors student typically wakes up "a bundle of nerves," she says, which had fueled her work volunteering, playing varsity sports and leading student government.
But for years, she also struggled with anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder — all of which drove her to work harder.
"I was spending so much time on my homework, I felt like I was losing my friends — so my thoughts would race over and over again about my friends," says Audrey. "And then I would have the difficult thoughts about suicide and some scarier stuff." (NPR agreed to use only her first name to protect her medical privacy.)
Audrey's psychological struggles landed her in mental health treatment last fall. There, she says, the coping skills she learned gave her perspective on quarantine: "I know all about how seeing friends and seeing people outside — and social interaction — is vital for survival."
There is a simmering tension between young people's desire to gather socially, and the growing threat from the coronavirus in the United States. The virus is now infecting more people in their teens and 20s than it had earlier in the pandemic, and that's contributing to outbreaks, especially in states in the South and West. As a result, public health officials are imploring young adults to limit social contact and take precautions to help protect their more vulnerable elders. But many young people see continued social isolation as a much greater risk than COVID-19 to their own mental health.
It's not that Audrey isn't worried about the pandemic; in fact, confirmed cases of the coronavirus are spiking in her hometown of Charlotte, N.C. So Audrey wears masks, washes her hands and stays 6 feet from friends. But for her generation, she says, infection isn't the primary threat.
"A lot of people are calling attention to coronavirus because it's right in front of us," she says. "But at the same time, teens' depression rate — it's a silent threat."
The health risks of infection differ by generation. For many young adults, life lived at a social distance, with a lack of peer support, comes at a high cost to mental health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says nearly half of people between 18 and 29 report feeling symptoms of anxiety or depression. That's significantly higher that the rate for both their parents and their grandparents. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people under 35.
Yet somehow, says Audrey, that's not talked about as much.
"We haven't seen the government or adults as passionate about the things we really care about, like mental health and climate issues," she says.
It might be tempting to think that FaceTime and Zoom provide substitutes for in-person social outlets, especially for a generation of digital natives who grew up with smartphones. But, therapists say, talking by small screen offers no replacement for a calming hug and can miss the subtleties of a compassionate expression.
Audrey's complaint is a common refrain among the adolescent and young adult patients whom Dr. Lisa Jacobs counsels. It is not that they aren't concerned about the risks of COVID-19, Jacobs says; it's just that their risk calculations differ.
"They are appropriately realizing that isolation is a risk for them as well — it's a risk factor for depression, and depression is a risk factor for suicide," Jacobs says. "And 8% of American teens attempt suicide each year."
Jacobs, a psychiatrist in Menlo Park, Calif., says many of her young patients complain older generations failed to address the young people's fears — of school shootings and climate change, for example.
"After not being protected, after not being taken seriously, they were asked to take extreme measures to protect other groups and to put themselves at risk by doing so," Jacobs says.
There is a biological basis for young people's need for socialization. Scientists say bonding isn't a luxury; it's critical for development.
Young brains need social connection to feel secure about their identity and place in the world, says Gregory Lewis, who studies the neurobiology of social interaction at Indiana University.
"We expect as a human being to have other people there to share the stressful times and to be our backup, and when they're not there physically, that in of itself tells our nervous system 'you're in a dangerous environment because you don't have these people here,' " he says.
That is less of an issue among older adults, Lewis says, who have had more time to develop their social networks — both at work and around their community — and more time to find partners who can help ground them emotionally. By contrast, he says, "younger people are missing a larger percentage of what previously was there to buffer them."
So the societal challenge, he says, is to find ways to help community members of all ages balance the risks of infection against the need to foster those essential social bonds.


npr--2020-07-04--Trump Flouts Virus Rules, Warns Of 'New Far-Left Fascism' In Speech Ahead Of July 4th

Trump Flouts Virus Rules , Warns Of 'New Far-Left Fascism ' In Speech Ahead Of July 4th Updated at 7:43 am ET On the eve of Independence Day , President Trump celebrated at the foot of Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Keystone , South Dakota with a fireworks display and an impassioned speech against what he called a `` new far-left fascism . ''
About 7,500 attendees won an online ticket lottery sponsored by South Dakota 's state tourism department to come to the event .
Despite the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in the country , crowds in red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close together and mostly maskless .
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem told Fox News ahead of the event that while free masks would be provided , attendees would not be required to wear them or practice social distancing .
Trump opened his speech by denouncing the protesters who have called for the removal of Confederate monuments and statues nationwide that have honored Americans who have supported or benefited from slavery .
The movement has stemmed from protests for racial equality that have taken place nationwide following the police killings of Ahmaud Arbery , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called the movement a `` merciless campaign to wipe out our history , defame our heroes , erase our values and indoctrinate our children . ''
The president signed an executive order in late June reinforcing an existing law that protects federal monuments .
In a tweet , he promised `` long prison terms for these lawless acts against our Great Country ! ''
At Mount Rushmore , Trump announced he was signing another executive order to establish the National Garden of American Heroes , an outdoor park that would hold statues of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Trump also lamented `` cancel culture , '' which he described as a `` political weapon '' used to intimidate dissenters and political opponents , calling it `` the very definition of totalitarianism . ''
He warned of a far-left agenda that was teaching children in schools to hate their country , but said Americans would not succumb to the `` web of lies . ''
`` They think the American people are weak and soft and submissive , '' he said .
`` But no , the American people are strong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allow our country and all of its values , history and culture to be taken from them . ''
In response , the crowd erupted in cheers of `` USA !
USA ! ''
and `` Four more years ! ''
Protesters had blocked one of the major highways into the site hours before the event was set to take place .
The demonstration was organized by Native American protesters , according to Lee Strubinger of South Dakota Public Radio .
Many were protesting the Mount Rushmore monument itself , which is carved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Demonstrators were also concerned that the fireworks display could damage the mountain .
Fireworks had been banned at the site for more than a decade prior to the event .
Others were worried the event would put tribal members at risk of a coronavirus outbreak .
About 15 protesters were arrested , according to The Associated Press .
On the night of the event , it was announced that Kimberly Guilfoyle , a campaign fundraiser and the Donald Trump Jr. 's girlfriend , had tested positive for the coronavirus .
Sergio Gor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finance committee , said in a statement that Guilfoyle was immediately isolated after her positive test result .
Trump Jr. tested negative , but the two will cancel future events and self isolate as a precaution .
Guilfoyle is asymptomatic , and Gor said she would be retested to confirm her diagnosis .
President Trump will follow his South Dakota trip with a `` Salute To America '' event where he will give remarks on the South Lawn of the White House .
Like last year , a fireworks display will take place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Interior cautioned residents who aimed to view the fireworks on site to practice social distancing and wear face coverings .

Trump Flouts Virus Rules, Warns Of 'New Far-Left Fascism' At Mount Rushmore Event
Enlarge this image toggle caption Bloomberg via Getty Images Bloomberg via Getty Images
Updated at 7:43 a.m. ET
On the eve of Independence Day, President Trump celebrated at the foot of Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Keystone, S.D., with a fireworks display and an impassioned speech against what he called a "new far-left fascism."
About 7,500 attendees won an online ticket lottery sponsored by South Dakota's state tourism department. Despite the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in the country, crowds in red, white and blue were seen packed close together and mostly maskless. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem told Fox News ahead of the event that while free masks would be provided, attendees would not be required to wear them or to practice social distancing.
Trump opened his speech by denouncing the protesters who have called for the removal of Confederate monuments and statues nationwide that have honored Americans who have supported or benefited from slavery. The movement has stemmed from nationwide protests for racial equality following the police killings of George Floyd in Minneapolis and Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Ky., and the killing of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia.
The president called the movement a "merciless campaign to wipe out our history, defame our heroes, erase our values and indoctrinate our children."
The president signed an executive order in late June reinforcing an existing law that protects federal monuments. In a tweet, he promised "long prison terms for these lawless acts against our Great Country!"
At Mount Rushmore, Trump announced he was signing another executive order to establish the National Garden of American Heroes, an outdoor park that would hold statues of the "greatest Americans to ever live."
Trump also lamented "cancel culture," which he described as a "political weapon" used to intimidate dissenters and political opponents, calling it "the very definition of totalitarianism." He warned of a far-left agenda that was teaching children in schools to hate their country but said Americans would not succumb to the "web of lies."
"They think the American people are weak and soft and submissive," he said. "But no, the American people are strong and proud, and they will not allow our country and all of its values, history and culture to be taken from them."
In response, the crowd erupted in cheers of "USA! USA!" and "Four more years!"
Protesters had blocked one of the major highways into the site hours before the event. The demonstration was organized by Native American protesters, according to Lee Strubinger of South Dakota Public Radio. Many were protesting the Mount Rushmore monument itself, which is carved into a mountain sacred to the Lakota. Demonstrators were also concerned that the fireworks display could damage the mountain. Fireworks had been banned at the site for more than a decade. Others were worried the event would put tribal members at risk of a coronavirus outbreak. About 15 protesters were arrested, according to The Associated Press.
On Friday night, it was announced that Kimberly Guilfoyle, a campaign fundraiser and Donald Trump Jr.'s girlfriend, had tested positive for the coronavirus. Sergio Gor, chief of staff for the Trump campaign's finance committee, said in a statement that Guilfoyle was immediately isolated after her positive test result. Trump Jr. tested negative, but the two will cancel future events and self-isolate as a precaution. Guilfoyle is asymptomatic, and Gor said she would be retested to confirm her diagnosis.
On Saturday, Trump is to appear at the Salute To America event and give remarks on the South Lawn of the White House. Like last year, a fireworks display will take place at the National Mall. The Department of the Interior cautioned anyone who planned to view the fireworks on site to practice social distancing and wear face coverings.


npr--2020-07-03--FBI Reveals New Details In The Case Of Missing Fort Hood Pfc. Vanessa Guillen

FBI Reveals New Details In The Case Of Missing Fort Hood Pfc .
Vanessa Guillen In April of this year , Vanessa Guillen , a soldier at Fort Hood in Texas , disappeared .
Since then , her family has been desperate for answers .
This week , they started to get some .
On Tuesday , human remains were found near the Leon River , although they have not yet been identified .
Wednesday , the Army announced one suspect in the case had been arrested , and another specialist , Aaron David Robinson , had killed himself .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminal complaint that tells a terrible story alleging Guillen was murdered on base by a fellow soldier then buried in stages near the same river .
Family attorney Natalie Khawam says they learned details at the same rate the public did .
NATALIE KHAWAM : We got the answers when her body was found and Robinson shot himself , so that 's not good timing .
KELLY : Fort Hood maintains they have remained in contact with the Guillen family since April , and there are multiple investigations under way into her disappearance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ harassed .
I spoke with Lupe Guillen , her sister , and attorney Natalie Khawam earlier today .
Khawam says the events alleged in the criminal complaint confirm their worst fears .
KHAWAM : The story , unfortunately , is a nightmare that we were afraid of what happened .
We knew she did n't run away .
We knew she did n't , you know - was n't hiding in a closet anywhere .
We knew that there was something horrible going to happen because she felt very uncomfortable about these men @ @ @ @ @ @ @ KELLY : Lupe Guillen , I want to bring you in here .
And allow me to start just by saying I 'm so sorry for everything that you and your family are going through .
I know you and your family believe that your sister 's disappearance is linked to harassment she said she was enduring on base .
Can you just tell me what she told you about them ?
LUPE GUILLEN : She first told her best friend Jocelyn about one incident with Robinson .
KELLY : This is specialist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspect who took his own life .
Please go on .
GUILLEN : And then there 's this other incident that happened on Fort Hood military base that this other man was sexually harassing her verbally and used to stalk her as well .
But she never told my mother the name of that man .
KELLY : She did not report sexual harassment .
Investigators say they have n't found any evidence that your sister was being harassed , but they are investigating as we speak .
The Army has announced a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hood .
That 's the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention there .
Does that feel like something to you ?
Does that feel like an important step ?
GUILLEN : My sister was too afraid to report the harassment because no one would listen to her just like the other girls from # iamvanessaguillen .
They take the sexual harassment , the sexual assault , as a joke .
They do n't care .
That 's why we asked for a congressional investigation .
We asked for the legislation to be passed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ my perspective , those SHARP classes have n't worked at all for no one .
And the history of Fort Hood is just unbelievable , and it is disgusting .
KELLY : That 's so hard .
I am so sorry .
Natalie , let me pull you in here because I know that you are calling for a congressional investigation , we just heard mentioned there .
You 're calling for legislation related to this case .
Would you tell me what you all are hoping to achieve ?
KHAWAM : Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soldiers , men and women , who are victims of sexual harassment and sexual assault just like if you were to be sexually harassed or assaulted at your workplace .
You go to the EEOC .
You do n't go to your boss or any people that are your command .
You go to the EEOC .
So it 's a safe place .
It 's a neutral place .
It 's an unbiased place .
And that needs to be provided to our soldiers so they can feel safe reporting something because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person who is your SHARP , the person who assists you in your reporting , is one of your colleagues in the same unit .
And then everybody in that unit knows that you 're reported because they all work together .
So if you 're turning on one of your brothers and sisters - which you 're really not turning , but that 's how they get treated - and therefore they either dismiss it as , you 're just complaining , get over it or you 're a piranha trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Lupe , if I can come back to you .
I would love to end just by talking about your sister .
And I wonder if you 'd told me a little bit about her , that would allow me and other people listening to know her .
GUILLEN : My sister Vanessa Guillen since she was a little girl , like about 10 years old , she used to tell my mom how she wanted to be a soldier because she wanted to protect and serve the nation .
She wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a hero .
She wanted to be someone in life .
And then she just entered high school .
And she was like , I 'm signing .
And I 'm going to be someone in life .
And I 'm going to have better opportunities .
And I 'm going to be that girl that will bring more light to my family that will help us and anything .
And yet the military filled her .
And Vanessa was just that wonderful person .
You know how they say nothing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trust me when I say she 's a role model .
I wanted to be like her .
KELLY : She 's your big sister , is that right ?
GUILLEN : She 's my big sister .
That 's right .
KELLY : I am so sorry .
And I appreciate your speaking with us .
That is Lupe Guillen .
We also spoke to Natalie Khawam , attorney for the Guillen family .
Lupe 's sister , Vanessa Guillen , disappeared in April .
FBI and local law enforcement and Fort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you to you both .

FBI Reveals New Details In The Case Of Missing Fort Hood Pfc. Vanessa Guillen
MARY LOUISE KELLY, HOST:
In April of this year, Vanessa Guillen, a soldier at Fort Hood in Texas, disappeared. Since then, her family has been desperate for answers. This week, they started to get some. On Tuesday, human remains were found near the Leon River, although they have not yet been identified. Wednesday, the Army announced one suspect in the case had been arrested, and another specialist, Aaron David Robinson, had killed himself. Then yesterday, the FBI released a criminal complaint that tells a terrible story alleging Guillen was murdered on base by a fellow soldier then buried in stages near the same river. Family attorney Natalie Khawam says they learned details at the same rate the public did.
NATALIE KHAWAM: We got the answers when her body was found and Robinson shot himself, so that's not good timing.
KELLY: Fort Hood maintains they have remained in contact with the Guillen family since April, and there are multiple investigations under way into her disappearance, also into whether she was sexually harassed. I spoke with Lupe Guillen, her sister, and attorney Natalie Khawam earlier today. Khawam says the events alleged in the criminal complaint confirm their worst fears.
KHAWAM: The story, unfortunately, is a nightmare that we were afraid of what happened. We knew she didn't run away. We knew she didn't, you know - wasn't hiding in a closet anywhere. We knew that there was something horrible going to happen because she felt very uncomfortable about these men sexually harassing her at the base.
KELLY: Lupe Guillen, I want to bring you in here. And allow me to start just by saying I'm so sorry for everything that you and your family are going through. I know you and your family believe that your sister's disappearance is linked to harassment she said she was enduring on base. Can you just tell me what she told you about them?
LUPE GUILLEN: She first told her best friend Jocelyn about one incident with Robinson.
KELLY: This is specialist Aaron David Robinson. He is the suspect who took his own life. Please go on.
GUILLEN: And then there's this other incident that happened on Fort Hood military base that this other man was sexually harassing her verbally and used to stalk her as well. But she never told my mother the name of that man.
KELLY: She did not report sexual harassment. Investigators say they haven't found any evidence that your sister was being harassed, but they are investigating as we speak. The Army has announced a review of the SHARP program at Fort Hood. That's the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention there. Does that feel like something to you? Does that feel like an important step?
GUILLEN: My sister was too afraid to report the harassment because no one would listen to her just like the other girls from #iamvanessaguillen. They take the sexual harassment, the sexual assault, as a joke. They don't care. That's why we asked for a congressional investigation. We asked for the legislation to be passed. I am Vanessa Guillen. Because from my perspective, those SHARP classes haven't worked at all for no one. And the history of Fort Hood is just unbelievable, and it is disgusting.
KELLY: That's so hard. I am so sorry. Natalie, let me pull you in here because I know that you are calling for a congressional investigation, we just heard mentioned there. You're calling for legislation related to this case. Would you tell me what you all are hoping to achieve?
KHAWAM: Our legislation would provide a third-party agency for soldiers, men and women, who are victims of sexual harassment and sexual assault just like if you were to be sexually harassed or assaulted at your workplace. You go to the EEOC. You don't go to your boss or any people that are your command. You go to the EEOC. So it's a safe place. It's a neutral place. It's an unbiased place. And that needs to be provided to our soldiers so they can feel safe reporting something because unfortunately, in the command, the person who is your SHARP, the person who assists you in your reporting, is one of your colleagues in the same unit. And then everybody in that unit knows that you're reported because they all work together. So if you're turning on one of your brothers and sisters - which you're really not turning, but that's how they get treated - and therefore they either dismiss it as, you're just complaining, get over it or you're a piranha trying to ruin this soldier's career.
KELLY: Lupe, if I can come back to you. I would love to end just by talking about your sister. And I wonder if you'd told me a little bit about her, that would allow me and other people listening to know her.
GUILLEN: My sister Vanessa Guillen since she was a little girl, like about 10 years old, she used to tell my mom how she wanted to be a soldier because she wanted to protect and serve the nation. She wanted to be a fighter. She wanted to be a hero. She wanted to be someone in life. And then she just entered high school. And she was like, I'm signing. And I'm going to be someone in life. And I'm going to have better opportunities. And I'm going to be that girl that will bring more light to my family that will help us and anything. And yet the military filled her. And Vanessa was just that wonderful person. You know how they say nothing's perfect? But for me, trust me when I say she's a role model. I wanted to be like her.
KELLY: She's your big sister, is that right?
GUILLEN: She's my big sister. That's right.
KELLY: I am so sorry. And I appreciate your speaking with us. That is Lupe Guillen. We also spoke to Natalie Khawam, attorney for the Guillen family. Lupe's sister, Vanessa Guillen, disappeared in April. FBI and local law enforcement and Fort Hood all have investigations underway. Thank you to you both.
GUILLEN: Thank you.
KHAWAM: Thank you.
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npr--2020-07-03--Washington Redskins And Cleveland Indians Are Rethinking Their Names

Washington Redskins And Cleveland Indians Are Rethinking Their Names The Washington Redskins football team is conducting a `` thorough review '' of its name , an apparent break from the NFL franchise 's longtime resistance to consider such a move .
A short time later , Major League Baseball 's Cleveland Indians said it would consider the `` best path forward with regard to our team name . ''
It said the team wants to embrace responsibility to advance social justice .
Friday 's announcement by the Washington team came a day after FedEx , the title sponsor of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the team change its name .
`` In light of recent events around our country and feedback from our community , the Washington Redskins are announcing the team will undergo a thorough review of the team 's name , '' the franchise said in a statement .
`` This review formalizes the initial discussions the team has been having with the league in recent weeks . ''
Team owner Dan Snyder , who has previously resisted changing a name that many find offensive to Native Americans , said : `` This process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not only the proud tradition and history of the franchise but also input from our alumni , the organization , sponsors , the National Football League and the local community it is proud to represent on and off the field . ''
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says the league backs the team 's review .
`` In the last few weeks we have had ongoing discussions with Dan and we are supportive of this important step , '' Goodell said in a statement , according to NFL.com .
In 2015 , a federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be cancelled because the name `` may disparage '' Native Americans .
But two years later , the group of Native Americans who had sued dropped their legal fight after the Supreme Court ruled in a separate case that federal trademark protections could n't be denied over the use of disparaging and offensive terms .
`` Although a poll taken in 2016 found that most Native Americans did not find the team 's name offensive , a survey published by the University of California at Berkeley earlier this year showed that nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or strongly agreed that the name of the Washington team is offensive , '' NPR 's Scott Neuman has reported .
In recent days , corporate sponsors have put pressure on the team to ditch the name .
On Thursday , FedEx issued a one-sentence statement saying it had `` communicated to the team in Washington our request that they change the team name . ''
FedEx paid $ 205 million in the late 1990s for the naming rights to the team 's stadium in Landover , Md .
And company CEO Fred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team .
Earlier this week , AdWeek reported that 87 investment firms and shareholders worth $ 620 billion sent letters asking FedEx , Nike and PepsiCo to stop doing business with the team if it does n't find a new name .
The letter to Nike cited the Black Lives Matter movement and said that `` we are witnessing a fresh outpouring of opposition to the team name . ''
`` Therefore , it is time for Nike to meet the magnitude of this moment , to make their opposition to the racist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tangible and meaningful steps to exert pressure on the team to cease using it . ''
In Friday 's announcement , Washington head coach Ron Rivera said , `` This issue is of personal importance to me and I look forward to working closely with Dan Snyder to make sure we continue the mission of honoring and supporting Native Americans and our Military . ''

Washington Redskins And Cleveland Indians Are Rethinking Their Names
Enlarge this image toggle caption Nick Wass/AP Nick Wass/AP
Updated at 9:35 p.m. ET
The Washington Redskins football team is conducting a "thorough review" of its name, an apparent break from the NFL franchise's longtime resistance to consider such a move.
A short time later, Major League Baseball's Cleveland Indians said it would consider the "best path forward with regard to our team name." It said the team wants to embrace responsibility to advance social justice.
Friday's announcement by the Washington team came a day after FedEx, the title sponsor of the team's stadium, said it requested that the team change its name.
"In light of recent events around our country and feedback from our community, the Washington Redskins are announcing the team will undergo a thorough review of the team's name," the franchise said in a statement. "This review formalizes the initial discussions the team has been having with the league in recent weeks."
Team owner Dan Snyder, who has previously resisted changing a name that many find offensive to Native Americans, said: "This process allows the team to take into account not only the proud tradition and history of the franchise but also input from our alumni, the organization, sponsors, the National Football League and the local community it is proud to represent on and off the field."
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says the league backs the team's review.
"In the last few weeks we have had ongoing discussions with Dan and we are supportive of this important step," Goodell said in a statement, according to NFL.com.
In 2015, a federal judge ruled that the franchise's trademark should be cancelled because the name "may disparage" Native Americans. But two years later, the group of Native Americans who had sued dropped their legal fight after the Supreme Court ruled in a separate case that federal trademark protections couldn't be denied over the use of disparaging and offensive terms.
"Although a poll taken in 2016 found that most Native Americans did not find the team's name offensive, a survey published by the University of California at Berkeley earlier this year showed that nearly half of 1,000 Native Americans polled agreed or strongly agreed that the name of the Washington team is offensive," NPR's Scott Neuman has reported.
In recent days, corporate sponsors have put pressure on the team to ditch the name.
On Thursday, FedEx issued a one-sentence statement saying it had "communicated to the team in Washington our request that they change the team name."
FedEx paid $205 million in the late 1990s for the naming rights to the team's stadium in Landover, Md. And company CEO Fred Smith is a minority owner of the team.
Earlier this week, AdWeek reported that 87 investment firms and shareholders worth $620 billion sent letters asking FedEx, Nike and PepsiCo to stop doing business with the team if it doesn't find a new name.
The letter to Nike cited the Black Lives Matter movement and said that "we are witnessing a fresh outpouring of opposition to the team name."
"Therefore, it is time for Nike to meet the magnitude of this moment, to make their opposition to the racist team name clear, and to take tangible and meaningful steps to exert pressure on the team to cease using it."
In Friday's announcement, Washington head coach Ron Rivera said, "This issue is of personal importance to me and I look forward to working closely with Dan Snyder to make sure we continue the mission of honoring and supporting Native Americans and our Military."