usatoday--2020-12-10--Denialism 2020: Trump and his fanatical allies are electoral terrorists. It's got to stop.

The state of Texas filed an innovative lawsuit this week in a last-ditch effort to overturn the election and install Donald Trump as president for another four years .
The U.S. Supreme Court is usually the final court of appeal , and it can sometimes take years for a case to make its way there .
However , when there is a dispute between states , it has what ’ s called “ original jurisdiction , ” which means that the suit can be filed directly in the Supreme Court as if it were a trial court .
So Texas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the entire state , filed suit against Georgia , Michigan , Pennsylvania and Wisconsin .
Unfortunately , while innovative , the Texas attorney general ’ s suit is also 350-plus pages of cringe-inducing nonsense worthy of Rudy Giuliani himself .
I won ’ t give you the full details , but its legal theories are both dubious and inconsistent .
To start with , it ’ s extremely unlikely , for all kinds of reasons , that Texas has standing to complain about another state ’ s election procedures .
Its alleged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re mostly a rehash of various debunked allegations of sinister activity — it ’ s generally not a good idea to use the word “ mysteriously ” in a legal complaint — and yet , as is typical of Trump ’ s election suits , it never actually alleges fraud .
One claim in particular takes absurdity to the next level .
According to the suit , “ The probability of former Vice President ( Joe ) Biden winning the popular vote in the four Defendant States ... independently given President Trump ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 3 a.m. on November 4 , 2020 , is less than one in a quadrillion.
” This is both complete nonsense and doesn ’ t reflect what the expert actually said .
I don ’ t know whether this is ignorance or mendacity on the part of the Texas attorney general , but neither has any place in a courtroom .
So this legal action , like all the rest , is going nowhere .
It ’ s extremely unlikely that the Supreme Court will even give it a hearing before dismissing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case is a loser .
And that ’ s the problem .
It isn ’ t meant to be a winner .
It ’ s simply another example of what never-Trump strategist Rick Wilson once called “ performative douchiness ” — ostentatiously being an obnoxious jerk for the sole purpose of impressing Donald J. Trump with your fanatical loyalty .
That ’ s why 17 Republican attorneys general have now backed this legal embarrassment of a case .
This has to stop .
In America , we have a civic religion .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the likes of Bernie Sanders and Ronald Reagan worship happily side by side .
The cornerstone of that faith is respecting elections and their outcomes .
We fight hard during the campaign .
We sometimes even fight dirty .
But when the campaign is over and the votes are counted , we openly accept the results , congratulate the winner and move on , knowing there ’ s another election to fight just around the corner .
When Trump lobbies state legislatures to throw out their election results and appoint him as president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or even ordinary people — refuse to accept the now-certified election results and admit that Biden has won the election , they are denying the most basic tenet of our civic faith and placing themselves outside the bounds of civic society .
By normalizing this behavior , by making it socially acceptable to simply refuse to accept an election that you don ’ t like , they are setting the stage for a wannabe autocrat to override the results of an American election in the all too near future .
Terrorist attacks on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ universally condemned .
No decent person will have anything to do with someone who cheers for Osama Bin Laden .
Yet , as President George W. Bush put it shortly after 9/11 , “ Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings , but they can not touch the foundation of America.
” GOP Sen .
Rob Portman : No proof of mass fraud that would change election result Attacks on the fundamentals of our democracy are much worse .
They do threaten the foundations of America and should be opposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for acts of terrorism .
And let ’ s be clear , that ’ s exactly what people like Trump , Giuliani and the Texas attorney general are : electoral terrorists .
I ’ m not suggesting legal action against these people .
The First Amendment protects their right to speak .
But the First Amendment protects free association as well as free speech .
And no decent person should have anything to do with someone who refuses to accept the results of the election .
In particular , this applies to elected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a recent Washington Post survey , only 27 congressional Republicans were willing to admit that Biden won the election while 220 of them refused to answer the question .
I hope that no respectable network or journalist will give any of them the time of day until they openly accept Biden as the legitimate 46th president of the United States .
Assault on democracy : Have Republican leaders no sense of decency ?
When it comes to Trump , apparently not .
But it isn ’ t just congressional Republicans who are the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be tolerated at any level of society , from businesses to bowling leagues , any more than people who celebrate physical terrorism would be .
I don ’ t say this in a spirit of anger or retribution , but rather in the grim understanding that some norms can not be transgressed and that no tent is big enough to contain people who are trying to burn the tent down .
We aren ’ t avoiding conflict by tolerating people who claim our elections are a fraud ; we ’ re encouraging it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forced to take a stand , so better sooner than later .
It ’ s time to stop debating whether the election was fair and transparent .
It was , but this is no longer an open question .
The lawsuits have been heard .
The election is certified .
The results are clear .
It is now our civic responsibility to accept those results and move on .
For some people , that may be an act of faith .
But that ’ s what religions , even civic ones , are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an appellate lawyer in San Diego , is a legal adviser for The Guardrails of Democracy Project , CEO of CertifiedVoter.com and a member of USA TODAY 's Board of Contributors .

Denialism 2020: Trump and his fanatical allies are electoral terrorists. It's got to stop. Don't tolerate Trump, Giuliani, the Texas AG or anyone else who won't accept Biden win. No tent is big enough to hold people who want to burn it down.
The state of Texas filed an innovative lawsuit this week in a last-ditch effort to overturn the election and install Donald Trump as president for another four years. The U.S. Supreme Court is usually the final court of appeal, and it can sometimes take years for a case to make its way there. However, when there is a dispute between states, it has what’s called “original jurisdiction,” which means that the suit can be filed directly in the Supreme Court as if it were a trial court. So Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, on behalf of the entire state, filed suit against Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
Unfortunately, while innovative, the Texas attorney general’s suit is also 350-plus pages of cringe-inducing nonsense worthy of Rudy Giuliani himself. I won’t give you the full details, but its legal theories are both dubious and inconsistent. To start with, it’s extremely unlikely, for all kinds of reasons, that Texas has standing to complain about another state’s election procedures. Its alleged facts are even worse. They’re mostly a rehash of various debunked allegations of sinister activity — it’s generally not a good idea to use the word “mysteriously” in a legal complaint — and yet, as is typical of Trump’s election suits, it never actually alleges fraud.
Nonsense, ignorance and mendacity
One claim in particular takes absurdity to the next level. Citing calculations from economist Charles J. Cicchetti, the lawsuit asserts: “The probability of former Vice President (Joe) Biden winning the popular vote in the four Defendant States ... independently given President Trump’s early lead in those States as of 3 a.m. on November 4, 2020, is less than one in a quadrillion.”
This is complete nonsense — "Pants on Fire," according to PolitiFact. I don’t know whether this is ignorance or mendacity on the part of the Texas attorney general, but neither has any place in a courtroom.
So this legal action, like all the rest, is going nowhere. It’s extremely unlikely that the Supreme Court will even give it a hearing before dismissing it. Even Alan Dershowitz understands this case is a loser.
And that’s the problem. It isn’t meant to be a winner. It’s simply another example of what never-Trump strategist Rick Wilson once called “performative douchiness” — ostentatiously being an obnoxious jerk for the sole purpose of impressing Donald J. Trump with your fanatical loyalty. That’s why 17 Republican attorneys general have now backed this legal embarrassment of a case. This has to stop.
In America, we have a civic religion. It’s a broad church in which the likes of Bernie Sanders and Ronald Reagan worship happily side by side. The cornerstone of that faith is respecting elections and their outcomes. We fight hard during the campaign. We sometimes even fight dirty. But when the campaign is over and the votes are counted, we openly accept the results, congratulate the winner and move on, knowing there’s another election to fight just around the corner.
When Trump lobbies state legislatures to throw out their election results and appoint him as president by fiat, when congressional Republicans — or even ordinary people — refuse to accept the now-certified election results and admit that Biden has won the election, they are denying the most basic tenet of our civic faith and placing themselves outside the bounds of civic society. By normalizing this behavior, by making it socially acceptable to simply refuse to accept an election that you don’t like, they are setting the stage for a wannabe autocrat to override the results of an American election in the all too near future.
Terrorist attacks on America are evil, and they are universally condemned. No decent person will have anything to do with someone who cheers for Osama Bin Laden. Yet, as President George W. Bush put it shortly after 9/11, “Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America.”
GOP Sen. Rob Portman: No proof of mass fraud that would change election result
Attacks on the fundamentals of our democracy are much worse. They do threaten the foundations of America and should be opposed with the same vigorous condemnation we reserve for acts of terrorism. And let’s be clear, that’s exactly what people like Trump, Giuliani and the Texas attorney general are: electoral terrorists.
I’m not suggesting legal action against these people. The First Amendment protects their right to speak. But the First Amendment protects free association as well as free speech. And no decent person should have anything to do with someone who refuses to accept the results of the election.
Don't tolerate people who claim fraud
In particular, this applies to elected Republicans, especially congressional Republicans. In a recent Washington Post survey, only 27 congressional Republicans were willing to admit that Biden won the election while 220 of them refused to answer the question. I hope that no respectable network or journalist will give any of them the time of day until they openly accept Biden as the legitimate 46th president of the United States.
Assault on democracy: Have Republican leaders no sense of decency? When it comes to Trump, apparently not.
But it isn’t just congressional Republicans who are the problem. Electoral terrorists shouldn’t be tolerated at any level of society, from businesses to bowling leagues, any more than people who celebrate physical terrorism would be.
I don’t say this in a spirit of anger or retribution, but rather in the grim understanding that some norms cannot be transgressed and that no tent is big enough to contain people who are trying to burn the tent down. We aren’t avoiding conflict by tolerating people who claim our elections are a fraud; we’re encouraging it. Eventually, we’ll be forced to take a stand, so better sooner than later.
It’s time to stop debating whether the election was fair and transparent. It was, but this is no longer an open question. The lawsuits have been heard. The election is certified. The results are clear. It is now our civic responsibility to accept those results and move on. For some people, that may be an act of faith. But that’s what religions, even civic ones, are all about.
Republican Chris Truax, an appellate lawyer in San Diego, is a legal adviser for The Guardrails of Democracy Project, CEO of CertifiedVoter.com and a member of USA TODAY's Board of Contributors.


usatoday--2020-12-10--Black youth arts center, refugee advocacy get a boost from Gannett Foundation program A Community Th

Kevin Robinson envisions a `` space and place '' for African American youth who live in Saint Paul , Minnesota , to heal and grow .
He sees it being a 4,000-square-foot community center for graffiti artists and spoken word poets ; a place to code a website or plan a protest .
Robinson realized the need for such a place more than ever this year after the death of George Floyd in police custody – a tragedy that took place about a dozen blocks from where he grew up .
In the protests and unrest that followed , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voices heard .
The Black Arts Center he plans to open in February 2022 will be a place for youth to amplify their voices – to heal and be heard .
Now , thanks to a grant from the Gannett Foundation , Robinson is $ 100,000 closer to making his vision a reality .
30,000 Feet – a nonprofit organization Robinson co-founded with Vanessa Young – has been named one of 16 national grant winners in the 2020 A Community Thrives grantmaking and crowdfunding program .
The program is sponsored by the USA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ A grant through the A Community Thrives program can be catalytic due to the exposure generated through the initiative .
We hope that is the case for 30,000 Feet , ” said Sue Madden , director of the Gannett Foundation .
This year 's program generated more than $ 5.6 million in crowdfunding and grants for nonprofits from 45 states and territories .
Those organizations are working to address social issues in their community including education , housing , arts and culture , wellness , and the environment .
Abbas is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50,000 recipient for its a paid advocacy workshop program for refugee women .
She spoke through a translator – Caterina Passoni , the organization 's executive director and co-founder .
Passoni said the funding was especially critical as the organization and the people it serves continue to feel the effects of the pandemic .
“ We ’ ve been in a fight for our own survival , ” Passoni said , noting the organization – which also runs a nonprofit food business – came close to shuttering .
Instead , with help from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up an advocacy workshop program that will pay refugee women a stipend as they work to develop skills and knowledge to build political power .
The Gannett Foundation says other national grant recipients include : • In Illinois , Bunker Labs Inc. will receive a $ 100,000 grant to support education programs for veterans .
• In North Carolina , Asheville Greenworks will receive a $ 50,000 grant to plant and give away trees in redlined communities .
• In Washington , D.C. , Homeless Children ’ s Playtime Project Inc.will receive a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ play program .
In addition to the 16 national grant winners of A Community Thrives , 180 regional grants are being awarded , starting at $ 2,500 .
These grants were chosen by leaders across Gannett 's nationwide USA TODAY Network of newsrooms .
All 2020 and past grantees can be viewed at the Gannett Foundation website .
“ At Gannett , we take pride in supporting community-building initiatives .
Through A Community Thrives , we lend financial support to that purpose and rally communities to champion good and meaningful causes .
Congratulations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recipients and their amazing projects , ” said Gannett Chairman and CEO Mike Reed .
Since its inception in 2017 , A Community Thrives has generated $ 12 million in grants and donations to community-based organizations across the nation .

Black youth arts center, refugee advocacy get a boost from Gannett Foundation program A Community Thrives
Kevin Robinson envisions a "space and place" for African American youth who live in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to heal and grow. He sees it being a 4,000-square-foot community center for graffiti artists and spoken word poets; a place to code a website or plan a protest.
Robinson realized the need for such a place more than ever this year after the death of George Floyd in police custody – a tragedy that took place about a dozen blocks from where he grew up.
In the protests and unrest that followed, he saw his neighbors struggling to make their voices heard. The Black Arts Center he plans to open in February 2022 will be a place for youth to amplify their voices – to heal and be heard.
Now, thanks to a grant from the Gannett Foundation, Robinson is $100,000 closer to making his vision a reality.
30,000 Feet – a nonprofit organization Robinson co-founded with Vanessa Young – has been named one of 16 national grant winners in the 2020 A Community Thrives grantmaking and crowdfunding program. The program is sponsored by the USA TODAY Network's parent company, Gannett.
“A grant through the A Community Thrives program can be catalytic due to the exposure generated through the initiative. We hope that is the case for 30,000 Feet,” said Sue Madden, director of the Gannett Foundation.
This year's program generated more than $5.6 million in crowdfunding and grants for nonprofits from 45 states and territories. Those organizations are working to address social issues in their community including education, housing, arts and culture, wellness, and the environment.
Sept. 22: Gannett Foundation program A Community Thrives now raising funds
“This grant will open a hundred doors for us,” Nieda Abbas told USA TODAY.
Abbas is co-founder of Havenly Treats, a $50,000 recipient for its a paid advocacy workshop program for refugee women. She spoke through a translator – Caterina Passoni, the organization's executive director and co-founder.
Passoni said the funding was especially critical as the organization and the people it serves continue to feel the effects of the pandemic.
“We’ve been in a fight for our own survival,” Passoni said, noting the organization – which also runs a nonprofit food business – came close to shuttering.
Instead, with help from the grant, they are now ramping up an advocacy workshop program that will pay refugee women a stipend as they work to develop skills and knowledge to build political power.
The Gannett Foundation says other national grant recipients include:
In Illinois, Bunker Labs Inc. will receive a $100,000 grant to support education programs for veterans.
In North Carolina, Asheville Greenworks will receive a $50,000 grant to plant and give away trees in redlined communities.
In Washington, D.C., Homeless Children’s Playtime Project Inc. will receive a $25,000 grant to expand its child-centered play program.
In addition to the 16 national grant winners of A Community Thrives, 180 regional grants are being awarded, starting at $2,500. These grants were chosen by leaders across Gannett's nationwide USA TODAY Network of newsrooms. All 2020 and past grantees can be viewed at the Gannett Foundation website.
“At Gannett, we take pride in supporting community-building initiatives. Through A Community Thrives, we lend financial support to that purpose and rally communities to champion good and meaningful causes. Congratulations and best wishes to these outstanding grant recipients and their amazing projects,” said Gannett Chairman and CEO Mike Reed.
Since its inception in 2017, A Community Thrives has generated $12 million in grants and donations to community-based organizations across the nation.


usatoday--2020-12-10--RBG, Kobe Bryant, Little Richard: Remembering notables who died in 2020

In this year of the coronavirus pandemic , deaths were often just a cold statistic .
Grieving families barely had a moment to say goodbye , to remember or to celebrate .
But every well-lived life , whether lost to disease , old age , accident or other cause , leaves positive paths forward , or sometimes cautionary tales , for family , friends or fans .
Those memories can bring tears , renew faith , and often spark a smile when the hint of a grandparent shows up in the face of a newborn .
So it is with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” USA TODAY ’ s annual remembrance of those who lived big enough to inspire not only loved ones but whole generations .
Some of those who died in 2020 became icons by the end , bright lights not only of past accomplishments but of new ways still to come .
The lacy “ dissent collar ” worn by Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg , whose death at age 87 shifted the tilt of the court , came to symbolize the resolve of her followers .
The raucous piano and whoops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a legacy of lascivious joy from the very beginnings of rock and roll .
The shaken , not stirred , martinis of Scottish actor Sean Connery , 90 , who died on Halloween , removed all doubt that he was the true James Bond .
Their voices , too , often brought inspirations and challenges .
“ Your vote is precious , almost sacred .
It is the most powerful , nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union , ’ ’ said Rep. John Lewis , 80 , an original @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July , but not before he recommended that Joe Biden pick a woman of color as vice president .
“ It is a paradox that when we reach our prime , we also see there is a place where it finishes , ’ ’ wrote journalist Gail Sheehy , 83 , author of the influential “ Passages , ” who died in August .
“ The moment you give up is the moment you let someone else win , ” said NBA superstar Kobe Bryant , 41 , whose death with his daughter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a shocking portent of the grim year to come .
The pandemic was barely starting when the deaths at the hands of police of ordinary Americans like George Floyd , 46 , and Breonna Taylor , 26 , sparked Black Lives Matter protests and helped raise social consciousness .
Some deaths shook nations in other ways .
Three days of mourning were ordered in Argentina following the loss of soccer superstar Diego Maradona , 60 , whose famous “ Hand of God ” goal – the ball came off his hand into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – helped secure the 1986 World Cup for his country .
Other deaths recalled pioneers .
A former Miss America , Phyllis George , who died at 70 , was just 26 when she joined CBS ’ Sunday pre-game show , “ The NFL Today , ” in 1975 , crossing a goal post for women in sportscasting .
“ Someone has to be first , ’ ’ said ESPN anchor Hannah Storm .
“ That was Phyllis George — a true trailblazer . ''
The loss of media comforts added to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Regis Philbin , 88 , who holds the record for most hours on television , was like a warm muffin and coffee every weekday morning .
And Alex Trebek , 80 , shared his battle with cancer even while proving that game shows like “ Jeopardy !
” could be intelligent and respectful of players and audience .
The largely uncontrolled spread of COVID-19 this year has cost hundreds of thousands of lives in the U.S. , among them well-known figures from all walks of life .
Just a sampling of the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 deaths were Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver , 75 ; folk singer John Prine , 73 ; portrayer of Darth Vader , David Prowse , 85 ; Las Vegas lion handler Roy Horn , 75 , of Siegfried and Roy ; New York federal judge Kevin Duffy , 87 ; Fountains of Wayne rocker Adam Schlesinger , 52 ; singer Trini Lopez , 83 ; rapper Ty , 47 ; historian Henry Graff , 98 ; Japanese Sumo wrestler Shobushi , 28 , and American wrestler Kamala , 70 ; disability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Annie Glenn , 100 ; presidential candidate Herman Cain , 74 ; Bruce Williamson , 49 , of The Temptations ; Toots Hibbert , 77 , of Toots and the Maytals ; Tommy DeVito , 92 , of The Four Seasons ; Broadway ’ s Nick Cordero , 41 , and playwright Terrence McNally , 81 ; actress Lynn Kellogg , 77 ; science-fiction writer Ben Bova , 88 ; and Medal of Honor winner for heroism in Vietnam , Army Command Sgt .
Maj. Bennie G. Adkins , 86 .
As lifespans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ century fade in memory .
Happily , their work survives : Some of the last stars of Hollywood ’ s Golden Age passed away in 2020 , among them eternal tough guy Kirk Douglas , 103 , and Olivia de Havilland , 104 , who brought a gentle spirit to 1939 ’ s grim “ Gone With the Wind.
” And Technicolor was tailor-made for fiery redhead Rhonda Fleming , 97 , co-star of films with Douglas , Charlton Heston and others .
Also lost were Diana Rigg , 82 , whose career @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Avengers ” to a regal turn in “ Game of Thrones ” ; and Max von Sydow , 90 , whose roles ranged from Jesus to an exorcist and Ming the Merciless in “ Flash Gordon.
” Tony Award winner Ian Holm , 88 , was nominated for an Oscar for “ Chariots of Fire , '' but is also remembered as an evil android in “ Alien.
” The “ Chariots ” cast also lost actor Ben Cross , 72 .
Jacqueline Scott , 89 , was known as “ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 100 movies and TV series such as “ Bat Masterson ” and “ The Fugitive ” ; Edd “ Kookie ” Byrnes , 87 , a breakout star of the 1958 TV show “ 77 Sunset Strip ” also appeared as the dance-show host in “ Grease ” ; character actor Wilford Brimley , 85 , brought homespun truth to his roles in “ Cocoon , '' “ The Natural ” and the journalism drama “ Absence of Malice.
” Ken Osmond , 76 , played the unctuous Eddie Haskell on “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What a lovely dress , Mrs. Cleaver ” – and later , for real , became a Los Angeles police officer .
And no , he did not become rocker Alice Cooper , one of the urban legends that plagued his career .
Character actor John Karlan , 86 , besides playing Tyne Daly ’ s husband on “ Cagney and Lacy , ” first freed vampire Barnabas Collins on the “ Dark Shadows ” soap opera in 1967 .
Other perennials included Hugh Downs , 99 , whose career goes back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comedy writer Carl Reiner , 98 , who created the “ Dick Van Dyke Show ” and was straight man for Mel Brooks ’ 2000-Year-Old Man ; singer/dancer Paula Kelly , 77 ; deadpan satirist Buck Henry , 89 , and comedian Norm Crosby , 93 ; comic actors Fred Willard , 86 , and Jerry Stiller , 92 ; Ja ’ Net DuBois , 74 , of “ Good Times ” ; and Monty Python ’ s Terry Jones , 77 .
Gruff-guy-next-door Brian Dennehy , 81 , appeared in 180 films @ @ @ @ @ @ @ played Pussy Galore in “ Goldfinger ” ; the movie star looks of Lyle Waggoner , 84 , drew laughs with Carol Burnett ; David Lander , 73 , was memorable as Squiggy on “ Laverne and Shirley ” ; and TV star Robert Conrad , 84 , who saw his profile grow in ads with an Eveready battery on his shoulder .
“ I dare ya to knock this off.
” Among unexpected deaths were “ Glee ” star Naya Rivera , 33 , who drowned in a boating accident ; actor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struck by a car ; and Chadwick Boseman , 43 , who died of cancer after portraying Jackie Robinson , James Brown , Thurgood Marshall and a new cultural touchstone , the Black Panther .
Actress Kelly Preston , 57 , who appeared in “ Jerry Maguire ” and 60 other films and TV shows , died of breast cancer in July .
“ Happy Birthday , Hon !
’ ’ posted husband John Travolta on her birthday in October .
“ All my love , John.
” So many iconic baseball players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost enough .
Besides Seaver of the Mets , gone are slugger Al Kaline , 85 ( Tigers ) , and Dick Allen , 78 ( Phillies ) ; pitchers Whitey Ford , 91 , and Don Larsen , 90 ( Yankees ) , and Bob Gibson , 84 ( Cardinals ) ; speedster Lou Brock , 81 ( Cardinals ) , and second baseman Joe Morgan , 77 ( Reds ) .
Also gone is legendary baseball writer Roger Kahn , 92 , who chronicled everyone listed here .
Football lost running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Golden Boy ” from Notre Dame and Packers ) , and Gayle Sayers , 77 ( Bears ) , along with Don Shula , 90 ( coach of the undefeated 1972 Dolphins ) .
Basketball greats include Georgetown coach John Thompson Jr. , 78 ; Tommy Heinsohn , 86 , who was with the Celtics as a player , coach and commentator for all 17 championships ; Wes Unseld , 74 ( Bullets ) ; Utah Jazz coach Jerry Sloan , 78 , and NBA Commissioner David Stern , 77 .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Richard , 84 , won 11 Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens , the most by any player .
And 1960 Olympic decathlon winner Rafer Johnson , 86 , is also noted for helping subdue Robert F. Kennedy ’ s assassin in 1968 .
Beyond John Lewis , the civil rights movement lost the Rev .
Joseph Lowery , 98 ; C.T .
Vivian , 95 , a close ally of the Rev .
Martin Luther King ; and Charles Evers , 97 , brother of slain activist Medgar Evers .
Other notables @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 91 ; former Sens .
Slade Gorton , R-Wash. , 92 , Tom Coburn , R-Okla. 72 , and Paul Sarbanes , D-Md.
, 87 ; former national security adviser Brent Scowcroft , 95 ; David Dinkins , 93 , the first Black mayor of New York City ; test pilot Chuck Yeager , 97 , who broke the sound barrier in 1947 , decades before NASA aimed at the moon ; quantum physicist Freeman Dyson , 96 ; and Katherine Johnson , 101 , a “ Hidden Figures ” mathematician who helped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ television tycoon Sumner Redstone , 97 , GE ’ s Jack Welch , 84 , and TV producer Fred Silverman , 82 , were among leaders who found their core businesses changing in a digital world .
“ The replenishing thing that comes with a nap – you end up with two mornings in a day , ” were the soothing words of usually hard-boiled New York City columnist Pete Hamill , gone at 85 .
Journalists silenced included jazz columnist Stanley Crouch , 74 ; political columnist Richard Reeves , 83 ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a groundbreaking column on gay issues for The Detroit News ; and PBS anchor Jim Lehrer , 85 .
Top authors ranged from adventure novelist Clive Cussler , 88 , and “ Queen of Suspense ” Mary Higgins Clark , 92 ( all 51 of her books were bestsellers ) , to Shere Hite , 77 , whose 1976 “ Hite Report on Female Sexuality ” raised consciousness .
Creative forces such as magazine designer Milton Glaser , 91 ; Christo , 84 , who unveiled epic artwork in public spaces ; Mad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and “ Blade Runner ” futurist Syd Mead , 86 , set standards for artists to come .
And playwright Larry Kramer , 84 , used his plays to push for AIDS awareness and government action .
The world of music lost players in all genres , including hyper-kinetic rock guitarist Eddie Van Halen , 65 ; classical guitarist Julian Bream , 87 ; country stars Kenny Rogers , 81 , Charlie Daniels , 83 , Mac Davis , 78 , Jan Howard , 91 , and Billy Joe Shaver , 81 ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the classic theme from “ The Good , the Bad and the Ugly.
” Other musicians included Helen Reddy , 78 , whose “ I Am Woman ” became an anthem ; Jerry Jeff Walker , 78 , writer of “ Bojangles ” ; Annie Ross , 89 , of the bebop jazz trio Lambert , Hendricks and Ross ; and singers Bill Withers , 81 , Betty Wright , 66 , and Johnny Nash , 80 , who sang “ I Can See Clearly Now.
” Lost band members included Bonnie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ronald Bell , 68 ( Kool & the Gang ) , Peter Green , 73 ( original Fleetwood Mac ) , Neil Peart , 67 ( Rush ) , and Spencer Davis , 81 ( whose Spencer Davis Group was fronted by Steve Winwood ) .
Finally , anyone still living from World War II remembers the hopeful poignancy of “ We ’ ll Meet Again , ” aired during the war on big band broadcasts and Armed Forces Radio by British singer Vera Lynn , who died in June at age @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of Stanley Kubrick ’ s “ Dr .
Strangelove ” in 1964 , but the words still have meaning , especially now after a year like no other : David Colton – @ dcoltonnow – is a former executive editor at USA TODAY .

Corrections & clarifications: A previous version of this story had the incorrect year of Ray Manzarek’s death. He died in 2013.
In this year of the coronavirus pandemic, deaths were often just a cold statistic. Grieving families barely had a moment to say goodbye, to remember or to celebrate.
But every well-lived life, whether lost to disease, old age, accident or other cause, leaves positive paths forward, or sometimes cautionary tales, for family, friends or fans. Those memories can bring tears, renew faith, and often spark a smile when the hint of a grandparent shows up in the face of a newborn.
So it is with this year’s “Passages,” USA TODAY’s annual remembrance of those who lived big enough to inspire not only loved ones but whole generations.
Some of those who died in 2020 became icons by the end, bright lights not only of past accomplishments but of new ways still to come.
Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died of metastatic pancreatic cancer at age 87, was the first woman to lie in state at the U.S. Capitol. H. Darr Beiser, USA TODAY
The lacy “dissent collar” worn by Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, whose death at age 87 shifted the tilt of the court, came to symbolize the resolve of her followers. The raucous piano and whoops of Little Richard, 87, left a legacy of lascivious joy from the very beginnings of rock and roll. The shaken, not stirred, martinis of Scottish actor Sean Connery, 90, who died on Halloween, removed all doubt that he was the true James Bond.
Their voices, too, often brought inspirations and challenges.
Little Richard, left, and Sean Connery are among the icons who died in 2020. A rock and roll pioneer, Richard's frenetic stage presence, trademark piano pounding and supersonic vocals made him into a showbiz institution. Scottish actor Connery, meanwhile, embodied the suave British agent James Bond, playing the role in seven films. They were among the dozens of movies he starred in during his career. Little Richard, left, and Sean Connery are among the icons who died in 2020. A rock and roll pioneer, Richard's frenetic stage presence, trademark piano pounding and supersonic vocals made him into a showbiz institution. Scottish actor Connery, meanwhile, embodied the suave British agent James Bond, playing the role in seven films. They were among the dozens of movies he starred in during his career. Little Richard, left, and Sean Connery are among the icons who died in 2020. A rock and roll pioneer, Richard's frenetic stage presence, trademark piano pounding and supersonic vocals made him into a showbiz institution. Scottish actor Connery, meanwhile, embodied the suave British agent James Bond, playing the role in seven films. They were among the dozens of movies he starred in during his career. LEFT: Stephane De Sakutin, AFP/Getty Images; RIGHT: MATT MENDELSOHN, USA TODAY
“Your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful, nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union,’’ said Rep. John Lewis, 80, an original Freedom Rider from 1961 who died in July, but not before he recommended that Joe Biden pick a woman of color as vice president.
“It is a paradox that when we reach our prime, we also see there is a place where it finishes,’’ wrote journalist Gail Sheehy, 83, author of the influential “Passages,” who died in August.
Chadwick Boseman, Kobe Bryant, RBG among the icons we lost in 2020 Remembering the stars who passed in 2020, from lawmakers to scholars and entertainers. USA TODAY
“The moment you give up is the moment you let someone else win,” said NBA superstar Kobe Bryant, 41, whose death with his daughter and others in a January helicopter crash was a shocking portent of the grim year to come.
Former NBA basketball player Kobe Bryant, 41, died in a helicopter crash Jan. 26 along with his 13-year-old daughter and seven other people. Harrison Hill, Harrison Hill-USA TODAY via Imag
The pandemic was barely starting when the deaths at the hands of police of ordinary Americans like George Floyd, 46, and Breonna Taylor, 26, sparked Black Lives Matter protests and helped raise social consciousness.
Some deaths shook nations in other ways. Three days of mourning were ordered in Argentina following the loss of soccer superstar Diego Maradona, 60, whose famous “Hand of God” goal – the ball came off his hand into the net but was allowed to stand – helped secure the 1986 World Cup for his country.
Other deaths recalled pioneers. A former Miss America, Phyllis George, who died at 70, was just 26 when she joined CBS’ Sunday pre-game show, “The NFL Today,” in 1975, crossing a goal post for women in sportscasting. “Someone has to be first,’’ said ESPN anchor Hannah Storm. “That was Phyllis George — a true trailblazer."
The loss of media comforts added to the pain of 2020. The always affable Regis Philbin, 88, who holds the record for most hours on television, was like a warm muffin and coffee every weekday morning. And Alex Trebek, 80, shared his battle with cancer even while proving that game shows like “Jeopardy!” could be intelligent and respectful of players and audience.
COVID-19’S TOLL REACHES WIDE
The largely uncontrolled spread of COVID-19 this year has cost hundreds of thousands of lives in the U.S., among them well-known figures from all walks of life. Just a sampling of the virus's deadly reach is breathtaking.
Among COVID-19 deaths were pioneering Black country music legend Charley Pride, 86; Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Seaver, 75; folk singer John Prine, 73; portrayer of Darth Vader, David Prowse, 85; survivor of "Gilligan's Island," Dawn Wells, 82; Las Vegas lion handler Roy Horn, 75, of Siegfried and Roy; New York federal judge Kevin Duffy, 87; Fountains of Wayne rocker Adam Schlesinger, 52; singer Trini Lopez, 83; rapper Ty, 47; historian Henry Graff, 98; Japanese Sumo wrestler Shobushi, 28, and American wrestler Kamala, 70; disability activist and widow of John Glenn, Annie Glenn, 100; presidential candidate Herman Cain, 74; Bruce Williamson, 49, of The Temptations; Toots Hibbert, 77, of Toots and the Maytals; Tommy DeVito, 92, of The Four Seasons; Broadway’s Nick Cordero, 41, and playwright Terrence McNally, 81; actress Lynn Kellogg, 77; science-fiction writer Ben Bova, 88; and Medal of Honor winner for heroism in Vietnam, Army Command Sgt. Maj. Bennie G. Adkins, 86.
Also lost to complications from COVID-19: Congressman-elect Luke Letlow, 41, a Louisiana Republican who died less than a week before being sworn in.
ENTERTAINERS OF YEARS PAST
As lifespans lengthen, inevitably stars of the past century fade in memory. Happily, their work survives:
Some of the last stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age passed away in 2020, among them eternal tough guy Kirk Douglas, 103, and Olivia de Havilland, 104, who brought a gentle spirit to 1939’s grim “Gone With the Wind.” And Technicolor was tailor-made for fiery redhead Rhonda Fleming, 97, co-star of films with Douglas, Charlton Heston and others.
Rhonda Fleming, known as one of the most glamorous actresses of the 1940s and '50s, starred in more than 40 movies. Jim Pringle, AP
Also lost were Diana Rigg, 82, whose career spanned the dapper British TV series “The Avengers” to a regal turn in “Game of Thrones”; and Max von Sydow, 90, whose roles ranged from Jesus to an exorcist and Ming the Merciless in “Flash Gordon.”
Ann Reinking, 71, is remembered as a Broadway dancing queen and Hollywood actress. Tony Award winner Ian Holm, 88, was nominated for an Oscar for “Chariots of Fire," but is also remembered as an evil android in “Alien.” The “Chariots” cast also lost actor Ben Cross, 72.
Wilford Brimley, left, worked his way up from stunt performer to star of films such as “Cocoon” and “The Natural.” Hollywood legend Kirk Douglas wowed audiences in movies including "Spartacus," "The Bad and The Beautiful" and "Champion." Wilford Brimley, left, worked his way up from stunt performer to star of films such as “Cocoon” and “The Natural.” Hollywood legend Kirk Douglas wowed audiences in movies including "Spartacus," "The Bad and The Beautiful" and "Champion." Wilford Brimley, left, worked his way up from stunt performer to star of films such as “Cocoon” and “The Natural.” Hollywood legend Kirk Douglas wowed audiences in movies including "Spartacus," "The Bad and The Beautiful" and "Champion." LEFT: EVAN AGOSTINI, AP; RIGHT: DAB, AP
Jacqueline Scott, 89, was known as “The Youngest Old-Timer” after appearing in more than 100 movies and TV series such as “Bat Masterson” and “The Fugitive”; Edd “Kookie” Byrnes, 87, a breakout star of the 1958 TV show “77 Sunset Strip” also appeared as the dance-show host in “Grease”; character actor Wilford Brimley, 85, brought homespun truth to his roles in “Cocoon," “The Natural” and the journalism drama “Absence of Malice.”
Ken Osmond, 76, played the unctuous Eddie Haskell on “Leave it to Beaver” – “What a lovely dress, Mrs. Cleaver” – and later, for real, became a Los Angeles police officer. And no, he did not become rocker Alice Cooper, one of the urban legends that plagued his career. Character actor John Karlan, 86, besides playing Tyne Daly’s husband on “Cagney and Lacy,” first freed vampire Barnabas Collins on the “Dark Shadows” soap opera in 1967.
Television fans will miss the familiar faces of Ken Osmond, left, and Hugh Downs. Osmond is known for playing the two-faced teenage scoundrel Eddie Haskell on “Leave it to Beaver.” Downs had a seven-decade career that included co-hosting the ABC newsmagazine "20/20" and launching the memory-game show "Concentration." Television fans will miss the familiar faces of Ken Osmond, left, and Hugh Downs. Osmond is known for playing the two-faced teenage scoundrel Eddie Haskell on “Leave it to Beaver.” Downs had a seven-decade career that included co-hosting the ABC newsmagazine "20/20" and launching the memory-game show "Concentration." Television fans will miss the familiar faces of Ken Osmond, left, and Hugh Downs. Osmond is known for playing the two-faced teenage scoundrel Eddie Haskell on “Leave it to Beaver.” Downs had a seven-decade career that included co-hosting the ABC newsmagazine "20/20" and launching the memory-game show "Concentration." LEFT: RICHARD SHOTWELL, INVISION/AP; RIGHT: EVAN AGOSTINI, AP
Other perennials included Hugh Downs, 99, whose career goes back to the original "TODAY" show; comedy writer Carl Reiner, 98, who created the “Dick Van Dyke Show” and was straight man for Mel Brooks’ 2000-Year-Old Man; singer/dancer Paula Kelly, 77; deadpan satirist Buck Henry, 89, and comedian Norm Crosby, 93; comic actors Fred Willard, 86, and Jerry Stiller, 92; Ja’Net DuBois, 74, of “Good Times”; and Monty Python’s Terry Jones, 77.
Gruff-guy-next-door Brian Dennehy, 81, appeared in 180 films; actress Honor Blackman, 94, played Pussy Galore in “Goldfinger”; the movie star looks of Lyle Waggoner, 84, drew laughs with Carol Burnett; David Lander, 73, was memorable as Squiggy on “Laverne and Shirley”; and TV star Robert Conrad, 84, who saw his profile grow in ads with an Eveready battery on his shoulder. “I dare ya to knock this off.”
Actress Naya Rivera drowned in a Southern California lake in July during an outing with her 4-year-old son. Willy Sanjuan, Invision/AP
Among unexpected deaths were “Glee” star Naya Rivera, 33, who drowned in a boating accident; actor Orson Bean, 91, who was struck by a car; and Chadwick Boseman, 43, who died of cancer after portraying Jackie Robinson, James Brown, Thurgood Marshall and a new cultural touchstone, the Black Panther.
Actress Kelly Preston, 57, who appeared in “Jerry Maguire” and 60 other films and TV shows, died of breast cancer in July. “Happy Birthday, Hon!’’ posted husband John Travolta on her birthday in October. “All my love, John.”
SPORTS LOSES LEGENDS
So many iconic baseball players died in 2020 that their names are almost enough. Besides Seaver of the Mets, gone are slugger Al Kaline, 85 (Tigers), and Dick Allen, 78 (Phillies); pitchers Whitey Ford, 91, and Don Larsen, 90 (Yankees), and Bob Gibson, 84 (Cardinals); knuckleballer Phil Niekro, 81 (Braves); speedster Lou Brock, 81 (Cardinals), and second baseman Joe Morgan, 77 (Reds). Also gone is legendary baseball writer Roger Kahn, 92, who chronicled everyone listed here.
Football fans said goodbye this year to running backs Paul Hornung, left, the dazzling “Golden Boy” of the Green Bay Packers, and Gayle Sayers, the Chicago Bears legend whose friendship with teammate Brian Piccolo was featured in the TV movie "Brian's Song." Football fans said goodbye this year to running backs Paul Hornung, left, the dazzling “Golden Boy” of the Green Bay Packers, and Gayle Sayers, the Chicago Bears legend whose friendship with teammate Brian Piccolo was featured in the TV movie "Brian's Song." Football fans said goodbye this year to running backs Paul Hornung, left, the dazzling “Golden Boy” of the Green Bay Packers, and Gayle Sayers, the Chicago Bears legend whose friendship with teammate Brian Piccolo was featured in the TV movie "Brian's Song." LEFT: Associated Press; RIGHT: MALCOLM EMMONS, USA TODAY SPORTS
Football lost running backs Paul Hornung, 84 (the “Golden Boy” from Notre Dame and Packers), and Gayle Sayers, 77 (Bears), along with Don Shula, 90 (coach of the undefeated 1972 Dolphins).
Basketball greats include Georgetown coach John Thompson Jr., 78; Boston Celtics player/coaches Tommy Heinsohn, 86, and K.C. Jones, 88; Tommy Heinsohn, 86, who was with the Celtics as a player, coach and commentator for all 17 championships; Wes Unseld, 74 (Bullets); Utah Jazz coach Jerry Sloan, 78, and NBA Commissioner David Stern, 77.
In hockey, Henri “Pocket Rocket” Richard, 84, won 11 Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens, the most by any player. And 1960 Olympic decathlon winner Rafer Johnson, 86, is also noted for helping subdue Robert F. Kennedy’s assassin in 1968.
NEWSMAKERS REMEMBERED
Beyond John Lewis, the civil rights movement lost the Rev. Joseph Lowery, 98; C.T. Vivian, 95, a close ally of the Rev. Martin Luther King; and Charles Evers, 97, brother of slain activist Medgar Evers.
Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., who carried the struggle against racial discrimination from Southern battlegrounds of the 1960s to the halls of Congress, died in July. H. Darr Beiser, USA TODAY
Other notables include deposed Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, 91; former Sens. Slade Gorton, R-Wash., 92, Tom Coburn, R-Okla. 72, and Paul Sarbanes, D-Md., 87; former national security adviser Brent Scowcroft, 95; David Dinkins, 93, the first Black mayor of New York City; test pilot Chuck Yeager, 97, who broke the sound barrier in 1947, decades before NASA aimed at the moon; quantum physicist Freeman Dyson, 96; and Katherine Johnson, 101, a “Hidden Figures” mathematician who helped NASA get to the moon.
Cable television tycoon Sumner Redstone, 97, GE’s Jack Welch, 84, and TV producer Fred Silverman, 82, were among leaders who found their core businesses changing in a digital world.
ARTS AND LITERATURE
“The replenishing thing that comes with a nap – you end up with two mornings in a day,” were the soothing words of usually hard-boiled New York City columnist Pete Hamill, gone at 85. Journalists silenced included jazz columnist Stanley Crouch, 74; political columnist Richard Reeves, 83; Deb Price, 62, who wrote a groundbreaking column on gay issues for The Detroit News; and PBS anchor Jim Lehrer, 85.
The literary world lost two bestselling authors early this year. Adventure novelist Clive Cussler died in February and "Queen of Suspense" Mary Higgins Clark passed in January. The literary world lost two bestselling authors early this year. Adventure novelist Clive Cussler died in February and "Queen of Suspense" Mary Higgins Clark passed in January. The literary world lost two bestselling authors early this year. Adventure novelist Clive Cussler died in February and "Queen of Suspense" Mary Higgins Clark passed in January. LEFT: LEANNA; RIGHT: MIKE DERER, AP
Top authors ranged from spy turned spy novelist John le Carré, 89, adventure novelist Clive Cussler, 88, and “Queen of Suspense” Mary Higgins Clark, 92 (all 51 of her books were bestsellers), to Shere Hite, 77, whose 1976 “Hite Report on Female Sexuality” raised consciousness.
Creative forces such as fashion icon Pierre Cardin, 98; magazine designer Milton Glaser, 91; Christo, 84, who unveiled epic artwork in public spaces; Mad magazine artist Mort Drucker, 91; and “Blade Runner” futurist Syd Mead, 86, set standards for artists to come. And playwright Larry Kramer, 84, used his plays to push for AIDS awareness and government action.
MUSIC MUTED IN 2020
The world of music lost players in all genres, including hyper-kinetic rock guitarist Eddie Van Halen, 65; classical guitarist Julian Bream, 87; country stars Pride, Kenny Rogers, 81, Charlie Daniels, 83, Mac Davis, 78, Jan Howard, 91, K.T. Oslin, 78, and Billy Joe Shaver, 81; rapper John Fletcher, 56; and Ennio Morricone, 91, composer of the classic theme from “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.”
Guitar legend Eddie Van Halen, performing with Van Halen bandmate David Lee Roth in 2015, died of cancer in October. Greg Allen, Invision/AP
Other musicians included Helen Reddy, 78, whose “I Am Woman” became an anthem; Jerry Jeff Walker, 78, writer of “Bojangles”; Annie Ross, 89, of the bebop jazz trio Lambert, Hendricks and Ross; and singers Bill Withers, 81, Betty Wright, 66, and Johnny Nash, 80, who sang “I Can See Clearly Now.”
Lost band members included Leslie West, 75 (Mountain); Bonnie Pointer, 69 (Pointer Sisters); Ronald Bell, 68 (Kool & the Gang); Peter Green, 73 (original Fleetwood Mac); Neil Peart, 67 (Rush); and Spencer Davis, 81 (whose Spencer Davis Group was fronted by Steve Winwood).
Helen Reddy, left, and Bonnie Pointer were among the many musicians who died this year. Reddy was known for her feminist empowerment anthem "I Am Woman" and a long string of other Top 40 hits. Pointer co-founded the Pointer Sisters and later launched a solo career. Helen Reddy, left, and Bonnie Pointer were among the many musicians who died this year. Reddy was known for her feminist empowerment anthem "I Am Woman" and a long string of other Top 40 hits. Pointer co-founded the Pointer Sisters and later launched a solo career. Helen Reddy, left, and Bonnie Pointer were among the many musicians who died this year. Reddy was known for her feminist empowerment anthem "I Am Woman" and a long string of other Top 40 hits. Pointer co-founded the Pointer Sisters and later launched a solo career. LEFT: MIKE WINDLE, GETTY IMAGES; RIGHT: KATY WINN, INVISION/AP
Finally, anyone still living from World War II remembers the hopeful poignancy of “We’ll Meet Again,” aired during the war on big band broadcasts and Armed Forces Radio by British singer Vera Lynn, who died in June at age 103.
The song was used ironically at the end of Stanley Kubrick’s “Dr. Strangelove” in 1964, but the words still have meaning, especially now after a year like no other:
We'll meet again
Don't know where
Don't know when
But I know we'll meet again some sunny day
David Colton – @dcoltonnow – is a former executive editor at USA TODAY.


usatoday--2020-12-11--In leaked audio, Joe Biden says 'defund the police' was used to 'beat the living hell' out of Democr

WASHINGTON — President-elect Joe Biden told civil rights leaders in a meeting on Tuesday he thought Republicans used the `` defund the police '' movement to defeat Democrats in down-ballot races in the November election .
`` That ’ s how they beat the living hell out of us across the country , saying that we ’ re talking about defunding the police .
We ’ re not , '' Biden said in audio obtained by The Intercept .
`` We ’ re talking about holding them accountable . ''
Biden cautioned the use of rhetoric on policing that could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate runoffs , warning against getting `` too far ahead of ourselves , '' but promised that police reform would happen with him in office .
`` We ’ re talking about giving them money to do the right things .
We ’ re talking about putting more psychologists and psychiatrists on the telephones when the 911 calls through .
We ’ re talking about spending money to enable them to do their jobs better , not with more force , with less force and more understanding , '' Biden said .
Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say he 's gone too far left ; activists say he has n't gone far enough Biden has proposed $ 300 million to reinvigorate a community policing program that was enacted as part of his 1994 crime bill .
The money would fund hiring and training for officers on the condition that police departments mirror the racial diversity of their communities .
But for some activist groups , adding funding for policing rather than diverting it to social programs is a problem .
Other Democrats have pointed to the `` defund the police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the House such as Majority Whip James Clyburn , D-S.C. , though progressives have pushed back on that characterization .
Leaders of civil rights groups that virtually met with Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on Tuesday said they were pleased after discussing their priorities for racial justice and other issues , but said that the administration would be judged by its appointees and policies .
Groups including the NAACP , the Lawyers ’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights , among others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Participants highlighted the need for racial justice following a year of protests nationwide after the deaths of Black men and women at the hands of police .
Several participants focused on the need to enforce civil rights and fight voter suppression .
“ We did not in any way pull any punches and he did not , ” said the Rev .
Al Sharpton , president of the National Action Network , who called the meeting “ candid ” and “ very blunt.
” Biden also told civil rights leaders that there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order , but said he would not go beyond the limits of his authority .
`` I am not going to violate the Constitution .
Executive authority that my progressive friends talk about is way beyond the bounds , '' Biden said .
`` Our only hope and the way to deal with it is , where I have executive authority , I will use it to undo every single damn thing this guy [ President Donald Trump ] has done by executive authority , but I ’ m not going to exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question ... '' he added .
The Biden transition team said in a statement to NBC News responding to the recordings that Biden is the `` same person behind closed doors that he is in public . ''
The team did not dispute the authenticity of the recording , NBC reported .
`` As he made clear throughout the campaign , he believes in supporting bold and urgent reform to our criminal justice system while continuing to support law enforcement 's mission to keep our communities safe , '' the transition team said @

In leaked audio, Joe Biden says 'defund the police' was used to 'beat the living hell' out of Democrats
Show Caption Hide Caption Joe Biden's Cabinet picks and other roles in his administration The president says he wants a government as diverse as America when he enters the White House. Here are some of his Executive Branch picks. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — President-elect Joe Biden told civil rights leaders in a meeting on Tuesday he thought Republicans used the "defund the police" movement to defeat Democrats in down-ballot races in the November election.
"That’s how they beat the living hell out of us across the country, saying that we’re talking about defunding the police. We’re not," Biden said in audio obtained by The Intercept. "We’re talking about holding them accountable."
Biden cautioned the use of rhetoric on policing that could hurt the Democrats running in the Georgia Senate runoffs, warning against getting "too far ahead of ourselves," but promised that police reform would happen with him in office.
"We’re talking about giving them money to do the right things. We’re talking about putting more psychologists and psychiatrists on the telephones when the 911 calls through. We’re talking about spending money to enable them to do their jobs better, not with more force, with less force and more understanding," Biden said.
Joe Biden's centrist dilemma: Police groups say he's gone too far left; activists say he hasn't gone far enough
Biden has proposed $300 million to reinvigorate a community policing program that was enacted as part of his 1994 crime bill. The money would fund hiring and training for officers on the condition that police departments mirror the racial diversity of their communities. But for some activist groups, adding funding for policing rather than diverting it to social programs is a problem.
Other Democrats have pointed to the "defund the police" slogan as responsible for losses in the House such as Majority Whip James Clyburn, D-S.C., though progressives have pushed back on that characterization.
Leaders of civil rights groups that virtually met with Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris on Tuesday said they were pleased after discussing their priorities for racial justice and other issues, but said that the administration would be judged by its appointees and policies.
Groups including the NAACP, the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, among others, were represented at the meeting.
Participants highlighted the need for racial justice following a year of protests nationwide after the deaths of Black men and women at the hands of police. Several participants focused on the need to enforce civil rights and fight voter suppression.
“We did not in any way pull any punches and he did not,” said the Rev. Al Sharpton, president of the National Action Network, who called the meeting “candid” and “very blunt.”
Biden also told civil rights leaders that there are some measures he can take through executive order, but said he would not go beyond the limits of his authority.
"I am not going to violate the Constitution. Executive authority that my progressive friends talk about is way beyond the bounds," Biden said.
"Our only hope and the way to deal with it is, where I have executive authority, I will use it to undo every single damn thing this guy [President Donald Trump] has done by executive authority, but I’m not going to exercise executive authority where it’s a question..." he added.
The Biden transition team said in a statement to NBC News responding to the recordings that Biden is the "same person behind closed doors that he is in public." The team did not dispute the authenticity of the recording, NBC reported.
"As he made clear throughout the campaign, he believes in supporting bold and urgent reform to our criminal justice system while continuing to support law enforcement's mission to keep our communities safe," the transition team said.
Contributing: Bart Jansen, Kristine Phillips


usatoday--2020-12-11--Marvel to honor Chadwick Boseman and not recast T'Challa in 'Black Panther 2,' due out July 2022

Walt Disney and Marvel Studios will not recast Chadwick Boseman 's T'Challa character in the next installment of `` Black Panther '' to honor the late actor .
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige made the news about the fate of Boseman 's `` iconic '' character official on Disney Investor Day 2020 Thursday , citing the `` devastating loss of a dear friend and a member of the Marvel Studios family . ''
Boseman died in August after a private battle with colon cancer .
`` Chadwick Boseman was an immensely talented actor and an inspirational individual who affected all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` His portrayal of T'Challa the Black Panther is iconic and transcends any iteration of the character in any other medium from Marvel 's past .
It 's for that reason we will not recast the character . ''
Instead , Feige said `` to honor the legacy that Chad helped us build , '' the studio will `` continue to explore '' the world of Wakanda `` and all of the rich and varied characters introduced in the first film . ''
The new film , `` Black Panther II , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ryan Coogler and released July 8 , 2022 .
Feige said Coogler was `` hard at work '' on the film now .
In other Marvel news , Feige announced that a new `` Fantastic Four '' movie is in development with `` Spider-Man Homecoming '' director Jon Watts .
It was bombshell news since the last version of `` Fantastic Four , '' released by 20th Century Fox ( now part of Disney ) in 2015 with director Josh Trank , was a critical and box office flop .
Feige also revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cast of `` Thor : Love and Thunder '' as the villain Gorr the God Butcher .
Following 2017 's `` Thor : Ragnorok , '' the fourth `` Thor '' film comes to theaters May 6 , 2022 starring Chris Hemsworth , Tessa Thompson and directed by Taiki Waititi .
In a quirky aside , Feige revealed `` The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special '' is coming to Disney+ in 2022 .
Long a dream project for director James Gunn , the writer-and director tweeted gleefully about the upcoming seasonal special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me laugh , '' wrote Gunn , saying he has bugged Feige endlessly about the project over the years .
`` I can ’ t believe we ’ re actually doing this .
And , yes , I unironically loved the 'Star Wars Holiday Special ' as a kid . ''
The special will be shot in conjunction with `` Guardians of the Galaxy Vol .
3 , '' written and directed by Gunn and hitting theaters in 2023 .
More : Disney+ 's 'Lego Star Wars Holiday Special , ' unlike its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the kitsch

Marvel to honor Chadwick Boseman by not recasting T'Challa in 'Black Panther 2,' due out July 2022
Show Caption Hide Caption Passages 2020: Remembering the stars we lost this year Remembering the stars who passed in 2020, from lawmakers to scholars and entertainers. USA TODAY
Walt Disney and Marvel Studios will not recast Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa character in the next installment of "Black Panther" to honor the late actor.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige made the news about the fate of Boseman's "iconic" character official on Disney Investor Day 2020 Thursday, citing the "devastating loss of a dear friend and a member of the Marvel Studios family."
Boseman died in August at 43 after a private battle with colon cancer. The announcement ended any speculation over who might follow in the role Boseman embodied in 2018's "Black Panther."
"Chadwick Boseman was an immensely talented actor and an inspirational individual who affected all of our lives," said Feige. "His portrayal of T'Challa the Black Panther is iconic and transcends any iteration of the character in any other medium from Marvel's past. It's for that reason we will not recast the character."
Instead, Feige said "to honor the legacy that Chadwick helped us build," the studio will "continue to explore" the world of Wakanda "and all of the rich and varied characters introduced in the first film."
The new film, "Black Panther II," will be written and directed by Ryan Coogler and released July 8, 2022. Feige said Coogler was "hard at work" on the film now.
Christian Bale is prepping to torment 'Thor'
In other Marvel news, Feige announced that a new "Fantastic Four" movie is in development with "Spider-Man Homecoming" director Jon Watts.
It was bombshell news since the last version of "Fantastic Four," released by 20th Century Fox (now part of Disney) in 2015 with director Josh Trank, was a critical and box office flop.
Feige also revealed Thursday that Christian Bale will join the cast of "Thor: Love and Thunder" as the villain Gorr the God Butcher. Following 2017's "Thor: Ragnorok," the fourth "Thor" film comes to theaters May 6, 2022 starring Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson and directed by Taiki Waititi.
Even seeing this here makes me laugh. One of my favorite stories ever, which I have bugged @Kevfeige endlessly about over the years. I can’t believe we’re actually doing this. And, yes, I unironically loved the Star Wars Holiday Special as a kid. pic.twitter.com/JjymrARoV7 — James Gunn (@JamesGunn) December 11, 2020
In a quirky aside, Feige revealed "The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special" is coming to Disney+ in 2022. Long a dream project for director James Gunn, the writer-and director tweeted gleefully about the upcoming seasonal special.
"Even seeing this here makes me laugh," wrote Gunn, saying he has bugged Feige endlessly about the project over the years. "I can’t believe we’re actually doing this. And, yes, I unironically loved the 'Star Wars Holiday Special' as a kid."
The special will be shot in conjunction with "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3," written and directed by Gunn and hitting theaters in 2023.
More: Disney+'s 'Lego Star Wars Holiday Special,' unlike its 1978 predecessor, plays it safe with the kitsch


usatoday--2020-12-11--'Hyphenated identity groups': Utah GOP Sen. Mike Lee blocks legislation for Latino and women history

WASHINGTON – Sen. Mike Lee , R-Utah , blocked two proposals on Thursday to create Smithsonian museums for Latino and women 's history from unanimously passing the Senate , saying there 's been too much `` balkanization '' in the country .
Claiming `` the last thing we need is to further divide an already divided nation , '' Lee blocked proposals to establish the National Museum of the American Latino and the American Women 's History Museum .
`` Within the walls of a Smithsonian museum just like at the National Gallery of Art or the great memorials that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us and them .
There 's only us .
And so my objection to the creation of a new Smithsonian museum or series of museums based on group identity , what Theodore Roosevelt called hyphenated Americanism , is not a matter of budgetary or legislative technicalities .
It is a matter of national unity and cultural inclusion , '' Lee said .
More : In leaked audio , Joe Biden says 'defund the police ' was used to 'beat the living hell ' out of Democrats Supporters of the bipartisan bills to add @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collection had hoped to get approval on a voice vote , but as allowed under Senate rules , Lee blocked the bills .
Lee argued that stories of Latinos and women should be told in the existing American History Museum , and if those histories are `` being under appropriated '' there , `` that is a problem and that 's a problem we should address here . ''
He stated the museums dedicated to the history of Native Americans and African Americans were separately built because those groups were `` uniquely , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history .
Politics live updates : Progressives criticize Biden nominated Fudge to HUD instead of Agriculture Sen. Bob Menendez , D-N.J. , who has been advocating for the National Museum of the American Latino for years , argued : `` We have been systematically excluded . ''
`` Believe me , we have been , '' Menendez said passionately on the Senate floor .
`` And the only righteous way to end that exclusion is to pass this bill . ''
Menendez , a co-sponsor of the bipartisan proposal with Sen. John Cornyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acknowledged it had done a poor job of including Latinos , and their history , in its museums .
`` This has been a 20-plus year journey to try and make this museum possible , and one Republican colleague stands in the way , ” said Menendez .
“ It ’ s pretty outrageous.
” Lee then blocked the Women 's History Museum bill on the Senate floor .
Sen. Susan Collins , R-Maine , who pushed for a women 's history museum , said she thought this was `` a sad moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proceed with both of these bills and pass them before the end of the year . ''
`` Surely in a year where we 're celebrating the 100th anniversary of women 's suffrage , this is the time , this is the moment to finally pass the legislation unanimously recommended by an independent commission to establish an American Women 's History Museum in our nation 's capital .
I regret that will not occur this evening , but we will not give up the fight , '' Collins said .
Both bills overwhelmingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Legislation for the creation of the Latino history museum passed in July with 295 co-sponsors while legislation for the women ’ s history museum was passed in February with 293 co-sponsors .
The legislation would authorize the process for creating the museums , which would be funded by splitting private donations and public money .
Lee argued the issue was that the museums were federally funded .
Since some of that funding `` is taken from the American people in the form of a tax revenue '' the Smithsonians have an `` unique @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a respository and as a teller of America 's national story , '' Lee argued .
The GOP senator referred to the proposed museums as `` an array of segregated separate , but equal museums for hyphenated identity groups . ''

'Hyphenated identity groups': Utah GOP Sen. Mike Lee blocks legislation for Latino and women history Smithsonians
Show Caption Hide Caption Women's suffrage movement used cookbooks as recipe for change The women's suffrage movement was also backed by non-activist women who believed the vote was crucial to them and their families. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, blocked two proposals on Thursday to create Smithsonian museums for Latino and women's history from unanimously passing the Senate, saying there's been too much "balkanization" in the country.
Claiming "the last thing we need is to further divide an already divided nation," Lee blocked proposals to establish the National Museum of the American Latino and the American Women's History Museum.
"Within the walls of a Smithsonian museum just like at the National Gallery of Art or the great memorials that dot this city, there is no us and them. There's only us. And so my objection to the creation of a new Smithsonian museum or series of museums based on group identity, what Theodore Roosevelt called hyphenated Americanism, is not a matter of budgetary or legislative technicalities. It is a matter of national unity and cultural inclusion," Lee said.
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Supporters of the bipartisan bills to add these museum to the existing Smithsonian Institution collection had hoped to get approval on a voice vote, but as allowed under Senate rules, Lee blocked the bills.
Lee argued that stories of Latinos and women should be told in the existing American History Museum, and if those histories are "being under appropriated" there, "that is a problem and that's a problem we should address here."
He stated the museums dedicated to the history of Native Americans and African Americans were separately built because those groups were "uniquely, deliberately, and systemically excluded" from history.
Politics live updates: Progressives criticize Biden nominated Fudge to HUD instead of Agriculture
Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., who has been advocating for the National Museum of the American Latino for years, argued: "We have been systematically excluded."
"Believe me, we have been," Menendez said passionately on the Senate floor. "And the only righteous way to end that exclusion is to pass this bill."
LIVE: Calling for unanimous consent on the @LatinoMuseum 👇 https://t.co/Yzp0ktSR1M — Senator Bob Menendez (@SenatorMenendez) December 10, 2020
Menendez, a co-sponsor of the bipartisan proposal with Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, argued the Smithsonian itself acknowledged it had done a poor job of including Latinos, and their history, in its museums.
"This has been a 20-plus year journey to try and make this museum possible, and one Republican colleague stands in the way,” said Menendez. “It’s pretty outrageous.”
Lee then blocked the Women's History Museum bill on the Senate floor.
Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, who pushed for a women's history museum, said she thought this was "a sad moment. I had hoped that we could proceed with both of these bills and pass them before the end of the year."
"Surely in a year where we're celebrating the 100th anniversary of women's suffrage, this is the time, this is the moment to finally pass the legislation unanimously recommended by an independent commission to establish an American Women's History Museum in our nation's capital. I regret that will not occur this evening, but we will not give up the fight," Collins said.
More: WOMEN OF THE CENTURY
Both bills overwhelmingly passed the House earlier this year. Legislation for the creation of the Latino history museum passed in July with 295 co-sponsors while legislation for the women’s history museum was passed in February with 293 co-sponsors.
The legislation would authorize the process for creating the museums, which would be funded by splitting private donations and public money. Lee argued the issue was that the museums were federally funded.
Since some of that funding "is taken from the American people in the form of a tax revenue" the Smithsonians have an "unique role and responsibility in our culture and as a respository and as a teller of America's national story," Lee argued.
More: How civil rights leader James Clyburn helped Joe Biden and Black America win the White House
The GOP senator referred to the proposed museums as "an array of segregated separate, but equal museums for hyphenated identity groups."


usatoday--2020-12-10--5 bicyclists killed, 4 injured after truck hits group on 'retirement ride' in Nevada

LAS VEGAS – On a highway ride to celebrate a cyclist 's retirement , five bicyclists were killed and four others were injured in a crash involving a truck , according to authorities .
The Thursday morning crash happened on U.S. 95 south of Boulder City , according to Nevada Highway Patrol spokesman Jason Buratczuk .
Around 9:40 a.m. , a box truck struck a group of about 20 bicyclists .
Four men and one woman died at the scene , according to authorities .
The box truck remained at the scene for several hours after the collision , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` It does n't appear to be impairment , '' Buratczuk said .
`` It appears to be a tragic accident . ''
Of the four bicyclists injured , one of the riders was flown to a hospital in a helicopter in critical condition .
It appeared the bicyclists were part of an organized ride , Buratczuk said .
They had a chase vehicle with them with flashers .
The driver of the chase vehicle was injured and transported to a hospital .
The driver of the box truck was not injured .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ till about 6 p.m. Thursday , according to Nevada Department of Transportation spokesman Tony Illia .
Clay Weeks , an employee at the Pro Cyclery bike shop , knew many of the bicyclists involved in the tragic crash .
`` They were on a retirement ride for one of the community cyclists , '' Weeks said .
`` We 've talked to a couple people who were on the ride .
Obviously everybody is super upset and distraught .
It 's pretty horrific that something like this would happen .
There 's really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ride together , '' Weeks said .
Weeks is familiar with the stretch of road where the crash unfolded .
On Thursday , he struggled to imagine how the crash happened there .
`` That shoulder on the side of that highway is wide enough to fit three cars , '' Weeks said .
`` We do n't really know how somebody managed to get that far off the road .
These were all very very experienced cyclists .
It 's not like they accidentally rode off and into the road . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ riders made the trip .
`` These are people who ride 10,000 miles a year .
Some race professionally , '' Weeks said .
`` How did something like this mistakenly happen ? ''
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5 bicyclists killed, 4 injured after truck hits group on 'retirement ride' in Nevada
LAS VEGAS – On a highway ride to celebrate a cyclist's retirement, five bicyclists were killed and four others were injured in a crash involving a truck, according to authorities.
The Thursday morning crash happened on U.S. 95 south of Boulder City, according to Nevada Highway Patrol spokesman Jason Buratczuk.
Around 9:40 a.m., a box truck struck a group of about 20 bicyclists. Four men and one woman died at the scene, according to authorities.
The box truck remained at the scene for several hours after the collision, as authorities investigated what caused the crash.
"It doesn't appear to be impairment," Buratczuk said. "It appears to be a tragic accident."
Of the four bicyclists injured, one of the riders was flown to a hospital in a helicopter in critical condition.
It appeared the bicyclists were part of an organized ride, Buratczuk said. They had a chase vehicle with them with flashers.
The driver of the chase vehicle was injured and transported to a hospital. The driver of the box truck was not injured.
U.S. Highway 95 southbound will be closed till about 6 p.m. Thursday, according to Nevada Department of Transportation spokesman Tony Illia.
Clay Weeks, an employee at the Pro Cyclery bike shop, knew many of the bicyclists involved in the tragic crash.
"They were on a retirement ride for one of the community cyclists," Weeks said. "We've talked to a couple people who were on the ride. Obviously everybody is super upset and distraught. It's pretty horrific that something like this would happen. There's really no words."
#FatalCrash involving a box truck and multiple bicycles. US95 southbound near Clark County mile marker 35. PIO is enroute. Avoid the area. #Livesareontheline #NHPSoComm — NHP Southern Command (@NHPSouthernComm) December 10, 2020
The tragedy startled Southern Nevada's close-knit bicycling community.
"We all ride together," Weeks said.
Weeks is familiar with the stretch of road where the crash unfolded. On Thursday, he struggled to imagine how the crash happened there.
"That shoulder on the side of that highway is wide enough to fit three cars," Weeks said. "We don't really know how somebody managed to get that far off the road. These were all very very experienced cyclists. It's not like they accidentally rode off and into the road."
It was not the first time those riders made the trip.
"These are people who ride 10,000 miles a year. Some race professionally," Weeks said. "How did something like this mistakenly happen?"
Follow reporter Ed Komenda on Twitter: @ejkomenda
'Christmas miracle': Texas boy who fell into well rescued by first responders who chiseled him free
Coronavirus live updates: CDC scientist says she was ordered to destroy email; Pfizer's vaccine authorization could be imminent


usatoday--2020-12-10--After alleging abuse at her old school, Paris Hilton isn't backing down

In her September documentary , Paris Hilton made explosive accusations against a boarding school she attended as a teenager , claiming she was verbally , emotionally and physically abused and left with insomnia , anxiety and trust issues .
She is n't alone in those claims .
Adults and teens across the country are coming out with abuse allegations against the “ troubled teen industry , ” as it ’ s called — schools and organizations marketed as boarding schools that experts say lack safety and health regulation and the proper educational and mental health tools to help students and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is one of thousands of former students who have alleged physical , psychological and sexual abuse .
She began the fight with the documentary “ This is Paris.
” Now the real work begins .
“ There 's a lot more work to do , ” Hilton tells USA TODAY .
“ I 'm not going to stop until it 's done.
” Hilton and her team , which includes `` This is Paris '' producer Rebecca Mellinger and Breaking Code Silence co-founder Jen Robison , launched Thursday a website they say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stories from the troubled teen industry : a platform that allows those who have experienced abuse to submit their own testimonies in a consolidated space .
`` We hope this gives them a platform where their voices can really be heard , '' Mellinger says .
`` This community has been so passionately activated since Paris came out , and I think they needed this public awareness aspect to be able to feel that their own stories are truthful ...
They really do deserve to be heard , so we 're hoping to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said she experienced verbal , emotional and physical abuse during the 11 months in she attended Provo Canyon School , a Utah boarding school for troubled teens .
The trauma , Hilton said , left her with anxiety , trust issues and insomnia .
When the documentary aired Sept. 14 , Provo Canyon distanced itself from these claims with a statement noting the school came under new management in 2000 , after Hilton attended in the mid- to late-90 's .
Hilton says she isn ’ t surprised by Provo Canyon 's repeated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turn has hurt survivors more .
“ They 're just very sadistic people , ” she says .
“ They lie to the families and they lie to the children .
They 're manipulators , so obviously they 're going to lie to try to protect themselves from what they 've done .
...
But it 's not our shame , it 's their shame . ''
Hilton , Mellinger and Robison ( a fellow alum of Provo Canyon who has said she also experienced physical and emotional abuse while there in 2003 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ management ) have been busy since “ This is Paris ” debuted .
In October , they organized a silent protest in Provo , bringing together more than 100 former students and supporters to show solidarity for those who had experienced abuse at Provo Canyon or other schools like it .
Though it was haunting for Hilton to return to the grounds of the school , she said she felt empowered by the opportunity to show students past and present that their voices mattered .
`` An incredible thing happened when we went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff members – former staff members and current staff members – coming forward to me to talk to me about allegations of abuse , as well as handing over evidence , '' Robison says .
When reached for comment , a representative for Provo Canyon School directed USA TODAY to an October statement on its website , which says the school provides `` a structured environment '' for young people who `` have not been successful in typical home and school environments , and in many cases have a history of engaging in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are individuals over the many years who believe they were not helped by the program , we are heartened by the many stories former residents share about how their stay was a pivot point in improving – and in many cases , saving – their lives , '' the statement added .
More from 'This is Paris ' : 'We 're all survivors ' : Paris Hilton alleges widespread abuse at her former school in new documentary Students who attend programs including Provo Canyon School hail from all parts of the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simply passing one law in Utah , for example , because home states do n't have the power to protect their students while attending school across state lines .
If change won ’ t come from within the programs or their individual states , Hilton and her team are going to take things to the top .
In addition to attending a social justice program in Washington , D.C. and creating the website , they ’ re working to promote a number of bills on the state and federal levels .
Hilton even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ titled `` I Blame You , '' proceeds of which benefit Breaking Code Silence .
Eventually , Hilton says , her team wants to work with the Biden administration .
This new database takes Breaking Code Silence — currently a volunteer organization taking steps to become a non-profit — to the next level .
What was already a conglomerate of thousands speaking out online will be able to consolidate their voices on one coherent platform , testifying together to show “ the extent to how prevalent the abuse in this industry is , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has known of Hilton since she was a teenager , but Hilton says she didn ’ t really know who she was until “ This is Paris.
” A few years back , she opened up in the documentary “ American Meme ” about feeling like she had been “ a 21-year-old for the past two decades ” — “ just very lost and kind of stuck in that mind frame and not in a good relationship , ” she now reflects .
In 2018 , when `` Meme '' debuted , she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zylka , before the two broke things off later that year .
Now , Hilton feels like a new person , both because of her relationship with boyfriend Carter Reum ( the two just celebrated their one-year anniversary and Hilton gushed about having found her `` partner for life '' ) and because she feels like joining the Breaking Code Silence fight has given her a life meaning and a mission .
“ I feel like a grownup finally , and I 'm so excited for the next phase of my life : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up , ” she says .
“ My priorities have completely changed .
I no longer care about going out or being the party girl that I was before .
I 'm more excited about being an activist and really using my voice and my platform to help make change and make a difference in the world.
” “ Doing the documentary was therapy , ” Hilton adds , crediting director Alexandra Dean for building a kind and trust-worthy atmosphere to let Hilton process her trauma out loud .
“ Talking about it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Following the documentary ’ s release , Hilton said she has heard from families who pulled their children out of Provo Canyon after watching her traumas unfold in “ This is Paris.
” “ It 's one of the best feelings in the world , ” Hilton says of knowing that her speaking out has made that direct impact .
“ I just think back to when I was a little girl and just how painful and terrifying it was to be there , and I know that me back then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am today to actually have stood up for myself and for everyone and really just using my platform to do good… My heart breaks for anyone in there , but I 'm so happy that using my voice has saved some children from having to go through any more torture.
” In `` This is Paris , '' Hilton opened up about worrying that the lasting trauma from her time at Provo Canyon would leave her with nightmares forever .
`` I do n't know if my nightmares will ever go away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably hundreds of thousands of kids going through the same thing right now , '' Hilton said in one scene .
`` And maybe if I can help stop their nightmares , it will help me stop mine . ''
The nightmares are gone now , she says .

After alleging abuse at her old school, Paris Hilton isn't backing down
Show Caption Hide Caption Paris Hilton reveals past abuses in new documentary Paris Hilton says she "finally feels free" after speaking out about abuses she received at a Utah boarding school as a teenager. Hilton opens up about the experience in a new documentary "This is Paris," debuting for free on Sept. 14 on Hilton's YouTube channel. (Sept. 12) AP
In her September documentary, Paris Hilton made explosive accusations against a boarding school she attended as a teenager, claiming she was verbally, emotionally and physically abused and left with insomnia, anxiety and trust issues.
She isn't alone in those claims. Adults and teens across the country are coming out with abuse allegations against the “troubled teen industry,” as it’s called – schools and organizations marketed as boarding schools that experts say lack safety and health regulation and the proper educational and mental health tools to help students and keep them safe.
Hilton, 39, is one of thousands of former students who have alleged physical, psychological and sexual abuse. She began the fight with the documentary “This is Paris.”
Now, the real work begins.
“There's a lot more work to do,” Hilton tells USA TODAY. “I'm not going to stop until it's done.”
Hilton and her team, which includes "This is Paris" producer Rebecca Mellinger and Breaking Code Silence co-founder Jen Robison, launched a website Thursday that they say is the most extensive database of survivor stories from the troubled teen industry: a platform that allows those who have experienced abuse to submit their own testimonies in a consolidated space.
"We hope this gives them a platform where their voices can really be heard," Mellinger says. "This community has been so passionately activated since Paris came out, and I think they needed this public awareness aspect to be able to feel that their own stories are truthful... They really do deserve to be heard, so we're hoping to give them another platform."
Hilton said she experienced verbal, emotional and physical abuse during the 11 months she attended Provo Canyon School, a Utah boarding school for troubled teens. The trauma, Hilton said, left her with anxiety, trust issues and insomnia. When the documentary aired Sept. 14, Provo Canyon distanced itself from these claims with a statement noting the school came under new management in 2000, after Hilton attended in the mid- to late-90's.
Hilton says she isn’t surprised by Provo Canyon's repeated denials, but ruminates on how that in turn has hurt survivors more.
“They're just very sadistic people,” she says. “They lie to the families and they lie to the children. They're manipulators, so obviously they're going to lie to try to protect themselves from what they've done. ... But it's not our shame, it's their shame."
Hilton, Mellinger and Robison (a fellow alum of Provo Canyon who has said she also experienced physical and emotional abuse while there in 2003, after the school came under new management) have been busy since “This is Paris” debuted.
In October, they organized a silent protest in Provo, bringing together more than 100 former students and supporters to show solidarity for those who had experienced abuse at Provo Canyon or schools like it. Though it was haunting for Hilton to return to the grounds of the school, she said she felt empowered by the opportunity to show students past and present that their voices mattered.
"An incredible thing happened when we went to Provo... I have had numerous staff members – former staff members and current staff members – coming forward to me to talk to me about allegations of abuse, as well as handing over evidence," Robison says.
When reached for comment, a representative for Provo Canyon School directed USA TODAY to an October statement on its website, which says the school provides "a structured environment" for young people who "have not been successful in typical home and school environments, and in many cases have a history of engaging in dangerous behaviors.
"While we acknowledge there are individuals over the many years who believe they were not helped by the program, we are heartened by the many stories former residents share about how their stay was a pivot point in improving – and in many cases, saving – their lives," the statement added.
More from 'This is Paris': 'We're all survivors': Paris Hilton alleges widespread abuse at her former school in new documentary
Students who attend programs including Provo Canyon School hail from all parts of the country, which makes things more complicated than simply passing one law in Utah, for example, because home states don't have the power to protect their students while attending school across state lines.
If change won’t come from within the programs or their individual states, Hilton and her team are going to take things to the top. In addition to attending a social justice program in Washington, D.C., and creating the website, they’re working to promote a number of bills on the state and federal levels. Hilton even came out with a song in October, "I Blame You," the proceeds of which benefit Breaking Code Silence. Eventually, Hilton says, her team wants to work with the Biden administration.
This new database takes Breaking Code Silence – currently a volunteer organization taking steps to become a nonprofit – to the next level. What was already a conglomerate of thousands speaking out online will be able to consolidate their voices on one coherent platform, testifying together to show “the extent to how prevalent the abuse in this industry is,” as Mellinger says.
The world has known of Hilton since she was a teenager, but Hilton says she didn’t really know who she was until “This is Paris.” A few years back, she opened up in the documentary “American Meme” about feeling like she had been “a 21-year-old for the past two decades” — “just very lost and kind of stuck in that mind frame and not in a good relationship,” she now reflects. In 2018, when "Meme" debuted, she was engaged to actor and model Chris Zylka, before the two broke things off later that year.
Now, Hilton feels like a new person, both because of her relationship with boyfriend Carter Reum (the two just celebrated their one-year anniversary and Hilton gushed about having found her "partner for life"), and because she feels like joining the Breaking Code Silence fight has given her a life meaning and a mission.
“I feel like a grown-up finally, and I'm so excited for the next phase of my life: to have a family and just grow up,” she says. “My priorities have completely changed. I no longer care about going out or being the party girl that I was before. I'm more excited about being an activist and really using my voice and my platform to help make change and make a difference in the world.”
“Doing the documentary was therapy,” Hilton adds, crediting director Alexandra Dean for building a kind and trust-worthy atmosphere to let Hilton process her trauma out loud. “Talking about it for the first time was like therapy."
Following the documentary’s release, Hilton said she has heard from families who pulled their children out of Provo Canyon after watching her traumas unfold in “This is Paris.”
“It's one of the best feelings in the world,” Hilton says of knowing that her speaking out has made that direct impact. “I just think back to when I was a little girl and just how painful and terrifying it was to be there, and I know that me back then would be so proud of the woman I am today to actually have stood up for myself and for everyone and really just using my platform to do good… My heart breaks for anyone in there, but I'm so happy that using my voice has saved some children from having to go through any more torture.”
In "This is Paris," Hilton opened up about worrying that the lasting trauma from her time at Provo Canyon would leave her with nightmares forever.
"I don't know if my nightmares will ever go away, but I do know there's probably hundreds of thousands of kids going through the same thing right now," Hilton said in one scene. "And maybe if I can help stop their nightmares, it will help me stop mine."
The nightmares are gone now, she says.