thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--11,000 Protests, Rising State Violence And Vigilantes: Here's Why It's All Kicking Off In The US

US law enforcement and other authorities used force while intervening in nearly 400 Black Lives Matter protests since police killed George Floyd in May, according to new data that paints the clearest portrait yet of the historic unrest that’s swept across the country this summer.
Figures from the US Crisis Monitor offer a bleak forecast of escalating political violence heading into a contentious election. While most of the protests have been non-violent, police or other authorities intervened in about 725 Black Lives Matter protests in the US between May 24 and August 22, sometimes using force – including tear gas, rubber bullets, or beating demonstrators with batons, data shows. There were also over 100 instances of government violence directed against the media during this period.
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“We’re seeing increased proliferation of groups like militias that are taking up arms, some of whom are becoming violent.” - Dr. Roudabeh Kishi
On top of that, the Crisis Monitor – a joint effort of the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), a nongovernmental organisation, and the Bridging Divides Initiative at Princeton University – identified over 100 instances of non-state actors, including at least 20 distinct far-right militia groups, intervening in Black Lives Matter demonstrations, sometimes violently, since May 24.
There were also dozens of cases of individual perpetrators, some linked to white supremacist groups like the KKK, driving vehicles into Black Lives Matter demonstrators.
And things could get worse.
“I think we have all of the pieces at hand to make a perfect storm, so to speak, as we march closer and closer to the election,” said Dr. Roudabeh Kishi, the director of research and innovation for ACLED’s US Crisis Monitor.
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Law enforcement clear protesters from Lafayette Park in Washington ahead of a presidential photo-op. Drew Angerer via Getty Images
There were nearly 11,000 demonstrations in the US between May 24 and August 22 – accompanied by terrifying instances of state repression, including the violent removal of protesters outside the White House to make room for a presidential photo-op, and the abduction of protesters by federal agents into unmarked vans driving around Portland, Oregon. There have also been increasing instances of far-right vigilantes confronting left-wing protesters.
In the past week, three people have been shot and killed at demonstrations. Last Tuesday in Kenosha, Wisconsin, a 17-year-old, marching with a local group of armed vigilantes, allegedly shot and killed two anti-racist protesters and severely injured another. On Saturday, a member of the far-right group Patriot Prayer, which is known for violently attacking leftists in the northwestern US, was shot and killed during a pro-Trump demonstration in Portland.
Another long, hot summer in America: The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project identified nearly 11,000 demonstrations in the U.S. between May 24 and Aug. 22, 2020. ACLED
“We’re seeing increased violence, like in the streets, within demonstrations. We’re seeing increased heavy-handedness by the state,” Kishi told HuffPost. “We’re seeing increased proliferation of groups like militias that are taking up arms, some of whom are becoming violent, like we just saw in Kenosha.”
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There’s been a sharp increase in the state cracking down on protests when compared to last year, Kishi said.
In July 2019, when the US was experiencing a wave of unrest over the horrific abuses of immigrants at government detention camps, police or government forces only intervened in about 2% of demonstrations, Kishi said. This July, those forces clamped down on 9% of protests.
Kishi said these trends, combined with hostile rhetoric from the White House and the way social media platforms allow extremists to mobilise, make her very worried about the coming months.
Right-wing groups have organised about 360 demonstrations in opposition to Black Lives Matter, often under the banner of “Blue Lives Matter.” Some demonstrations were also organised in support of Trump or Confederate statues.
All told, according to ACLED’s data, over 40 of those right-wing demonstrations have resulted in violence since May.
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This adds to recent findings from the Centre for Analysis of the Radical Right, which identified nearly 500 incidents of vigilantes or far-right activists confronting Black Lives Matter demonstrators since May.
Those incidents include 64 cases of simple assault, 38 cases of vigilantes driving cars into demonstrators, and nine times that shots were fired at protesters.
At least six left-wing protesters have been shot during the demonstrations, three of whom died.
The president, meanwhile, has attempted to make “law and order” a central pillar of his re-election campaign, in part by signalling his opposition to the nationwide protests.
On Sunday, Trump lashed out against “antifa” and Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler.
“The people of Portland won’t put up with no safety any longer,” Trump tweeted. “The Mayor is a FOOL. Bring in the National Guard!”
In response to Trump's visit to Kenosha, grassroots group drove a mobile billboard calling on voters to "Reject Trump's Violence". Daniel Boczarski via Getty Images
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On Monday, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany refused to say whether the president would condemn the killing of two protesters in Kenosha.
It’s this type of messaging from the White House, in support of state repression of protests and tacit tolerance of far-right vigilantes, that has Kishi and the team at ACLED so worried.
“I think as you’re closer to November, this hyperpolarisation is kind of coming to a front,” Kishi said.
The weeks immediately before and after the election could be particularly fraught, Kishi warned, pointing to the possibility of widespread voter suppression and growing uncertainty about whether Americans will accept the election’s results.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Pope Francis Greets First Crowd Since Lockdown At The Vatican

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Pope Francis Greets First Crowd Since Lockdown At The Vatican
Pope Francis has held his first general audience with a live crowd in six months, as restrictions ease after the coronavirus pandemic. About 500 people attended, nearly all of them wearing masks and keeping social distancing.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Gavin Williamson Overruled Advice Not To Cancel Exams, Says Ofqual Chair

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Gavin Williamson ignored Ofqual’s advice not to cancel A-level and GCSE exams in England, the chair of the exams watchdog has told MPs.
Speaking to the Commons education committee on Wednesday morning, Roger Taylor said it had been a “fundamental mistake” to believe the public would accept results decided by a computer algorithm.
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Ofqual’s algorithm saw 40% of students’ A-level results downgraded, with poorer teenagers disproportionately hit.
“At the outset our initial advice to the secretary of state was the best way to handle this was to try to hold exams in a socially distanced manner,” Taylor said. “Our second option was to delay exams.
“The third option, if neither of these was acceptable, would be to have to try to look at some sort of calculated grade.”
But Taylor said Williamson, the education secretary, took the decision on March 18 to cancel exams and use a system of calculated grades “without further consultation” with Ofqual.
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“The fundamental mistake was to believe this would ever be acceptable to the public,” he told MPs.
In its written submission to the committee, Taylor said Ofqual wanted to make clear it was “sorry” for “the distress and anxiety” experienced students, parents and teachers.
“We fully accept our share of responsibility in this,” he added.
“The blame lies with us collectively – all of us who failed to design a mechanism for awarding grades that was acceptable to the public and met the secretary of state’s policy intent of ensuing grades were awarded in a way consistent with the previous year.
“To try to deliver comparable qualification results in the absence of students having taken any assessments proved to be an impossible task.”
Williamson yesterday apologised once again to students who suffered “a great deal of stress and uncertainty” due to “inconsistent and unfair” A-level grades.
The education secretary told MPs that the government was determined for exams to go ahead in 2021, adding it was working with the sector to ensure “this is done as smoothly as possible”.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--John Boyega Says Disney 'Gave All The Nuance' To White Star Wars Characters

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Star Wars actor John Boyega has said he felt his character was “pushed to the side” in later films in the series, particularly compared to his white co-stars.
The British actor played Finn in the latest Star Wars trilogy, which came to an end last year with the release of the divisive film The Rise Of Skywalker.
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In a new interview with GQ magazine, in which John reflected on his career so far as well as looking to the future, he said the franchise’s white characters were given more “nuance” than his own.
“What I would say to Disney is do not bring out a Black character, market them to be much more important in the franchise than they are and then have them pushed to the side,” he said. “It’s not good. I’ll say it straight up.”
John Boyega at a Star Wars fan event in 2019 Jun Sato via Getty Images
He also noted that the same was true for other people of colour among the cast, including Kelly Marie Tran and Oscar Isaac, continuing: “Like, you guys knew what to do with Daisy Ridley, you knew what to do with Adam Driver.
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“You knew what to do with these other people, but when it came to Kelly Marie Tran, when it came to John Boyega, you know fuck all. So what do you want me to say? What they want you to say is, ‘I enjoyed being a part of it. It was a great experience...’ Nah, nah, nah. I’ll take that deal when it’s a great experience.
“They gave all the nuance to Adam Driver, all the nuance to Daisy Ridley. Let’s be honest. Daisy knows this. Adam knows this. Everybody knows. I’m not exposing anything.”
John in a promotional poster for Star Wars: The Force Awakens Lucasfilm/Bad Robot/Walt Disney Studios/Kobal/Shutterstock
John also spoke about the racism he faced from certain sections of the Star Wars fandom, revealing it affected him more than he let on at the time.
He recalled: “I’m the only cast member who had their own unique experience of that franchise based on their race. Let’s just leave it like that.
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“It makes you angry with a process like that. It makes you much more militant; it changes you. Because you realise, ‘I got given this opportunity but I’m in an industry that wasn’t even ready for me.’ Nobody else in the cast had people saying they were going to boycott the movie because [they were in it].
“Nobody else had the uproar and death threats sent to their Instagram DMs and social media, saying, ‘Black this and Black that and you shouldn’t be a Stormtrooper.’ Nobody else had that experience. But yet people are surprised that I’m this way. That’s my frustration.”
John in character as Finn in Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker J Olley/Lucasfilm/Disney/Kobal/Shutterstock
As extracts from the interview began circulating on social media, John tweeted: “These conversations and me sharing isn’t about a witch hunt. It’s about clarity to an anger that can be seen as selfish, disruptive and self indulgent. Obviously in hopes of better change.
“Bruh. In short. I said what I said. Love to you all seriously. Your support is amazing.”
These conversations and me sharing isn’t about a witch hunt. It’s about clarity to an anger that can be seen as selfish, disruptive and self indulgent. Obviously in hopes of better change.Bruh. In short. I said what I said. Love to you all seriously. Your support is amazing ! ❤ — John Boyega (@JohnBoyega) September 2, 2020
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He told the crowds gathered in Hyde Park: “Every Black person in here remembered when another person reminded you that you were Black.
“All those protesters on the other side, protesting against what we want to do, protesting against what we want to try and achieve – [...] I need you to understand how painful this shit is.
“I need you to understand how painful it is to be reminded every day that your race means nothing, and that isn’t the case.”
John added: “I’m speaking to you from my heart. Look, I don’t know if I’m going to have a career after this, but fuck that.
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“Today is about innocent people who were halfway through their process, we don’t know what George Floyd could have achieved, we don’t know what Sandra Bland could have achieved, but today we’re going to make sure that won’t be an alien thought to our young ones.”
John Boyega at a Black Lives Matter protest in June DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS via Getty Images
The most recent Star Wars film, The Rise Of Skywalker, was previously called out due to the reduced role given to cast member Kelly Marie Tran, who joined the series in The Last Jedi.
Chris Terrio, who co-wrote The Rise Of Skywalker with director J.J. Abrams, addressed this shortly after the film’s release, insisting: “J.J. and I adore Kelly Marie Tran. One of the reasons that Rose [Kelly’s character] has a few less scenes than we would like her to have has to do with the difficulty of using Carrie [Fisher]’s footage in the way we wanted to.”
“As the process evolved, a few scenes we’d written with Rose and Leia turned out to not meet the standard of photorealism that we’d hoped for,” he added. “Those scenes unfortunately fell out of the film.
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“The last thing we were doing was deliberately trying to sideline Rose. We adore the character, and we adore Kelly – so much so that we anchored her with our favourite person in this galaxy, General Leia.”
Read John Boyega’s interview in full in the new issue of GQ magazine.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Meet 'Sparkella': Channing Tatum Wrote A Children's Book About Dad-Daughter Love

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Channing Tatum just shared his favourite role to date: being a dad. And he’s adding “children’s book author” to his CV, too.
The 40-year-old actor, producer and director on Monday announced that his first children’s book, “The One and Only Sparkella,” will be published. The book, according to its website, is a “charming ode to self-esteem and the love between a father and daughter.”
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It tells the story of Ella, a girl who loves glitter and rainbows and all things sparkly, who has trouble with her classmates on her first day of school. She tries to tone it down to fit in but soon learns how to just be herself with a little help from her dad.
“Guys, I don’t know about you but things got a little weird for me in quarantine,” the “Magic Mike” actor wrote in his announcement Monday. “I ended up accidentally locking myself in my 7 year old daughter’s room. And I ended up finding my inner child. So this is what I created for my little girl. From what is, I guess, the little girl in me.”
The book is dedicated to his daughter, Everly, whom he shares with his ex-wife, Jenna Dewan.
A copy of the dedication was shared exclusively with People. “To Everly, the most brilliant magical being that I have ever known,” it reads. “You are my greatest teacher.”
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“This is also for all Dads that might have a little girl ... Wear whatever, dance however, and be as magical as you can. Because I promise they will return the love.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--7 Signs You're Being A Bad Friend – And How To Be A Better One

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When it feels like the friendships in your life are lacking, it’s easy to place blame on your pals. But before you do, it might be worth looking in the mirror first. Sometimes it’s actually us, not them, that’s the problem.
That said, we all go through challenging periods — dealing with job loss, a family crisis or a mental health issue, for instance — when we’re not acting like the top-notch friend we aspire to be under normal circumstances. But when this inconsiderate or toxic behaviour toward friends becomes part of a long-term pattern, it needs to be examined and worked on. Otherwise, you risk losing those relationships.
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Wondering if your friendship skills are up to snuff? We asked experts to share the signs that might indicate you’re not being a good friend and offer advice on how to be a better one.
1. You always manage to steer the conversation back to yourself
When your friend starts to open up about their promotion at work or the new person they’re dating, you never fail to find a way to steer the discussion back to you.
“No conversation is perfectly balanced in who talks more, nor should it be. And in some friendships, one person always tends to talk more ― and that can be OK,” psychologist Andrea Bonior, author of “Detox Your Thoughts,” told HuffPost. “But if your friends are trying to confide or discuss something about their lives, and you consistently hijack it back to you, it stings and destroys the sense of reciprocity that is so important in friendship.”
The fix: Sharpen your mindful listening skills. When your friend is talking, practice maintaining eye contact and using open, supportive body language, Bonior suggested. It shows you’re paying attention and genuinely interested in hearing what they have to say.
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“Pause before you share something about yourself by asking if it can be seen as interrupting the narrative the other person is telling,” she said.
2. You commit to plans, already knowing you’re going to back out
Life happens, things come up and plans get canceled — that’s understandable. But if you have a habit of saying “yes” to that wine tasting trip or to helping them move, when you actually mean “no,” it’s inconsiderate. It’s better to be upfront than flake out at the last minute.
“There’s a subset of folks who are afraid of the discomfort of saying ‘no’ in the first place, so they say ‘yes’ to avoid that discomfort,” Bonior said. “But it only causes more disappointment later. That’s not fair to friends and erodes trust over time.”
The fix: Resist the urge to respond immediately. If you’re not sure if you can swing it, it’s OK to give it some thought and get back to them later, said psychologist and friendship expert Irene S. Levine.
“And bear in mind that you don’t have to acquiesce to everything a friend asks,” Levine said. “If you need to turn them down, do so at the onset, not at the last minute when they are depending on you. Only make commitments you are able to keep.”
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3. You’re good at making friends, but not keeping them
“You are outgoing, friendly and well-liked, able to easily make friends but not able to make the friendship last or go deeper,” Levine said.
Of course, not all relationships are built to last and that’s OK. But if you have a string of short-lived friendships — and they didn’t end on your terms — there could be a reason.
The fix: Take time to consider why these bonds tend to crash and burn or just fade away. Maybe an old pal gave you some constructive criticism in the past that could offer a clue? Or is there another person in your life who may be able to lend some insight?
“If this is a pattern and you can’t get past it, you may want to speak to a life coach or mental health therapist who can help you determine what’s happening and give you tools to help keep your friendships,” Levine said.
10'000 Hours via Getty Images Just because you've made some of these friendship mistakes doesn't mean you're a bad person. Experts offer practical advice to help you work through these issues.
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4. You’re never the one to initiate plans or check in first
In friendships, it’s not unusual for some people to be the planners, while others tend to just go with the flow. But if the amount of effort being put in is completely lopsided ― they’re consistently the one to invite you to do things and call you to see how you’re doing — it could breed resentment.
The fix: “Enduring friendships need to be reciprocal. If one person is always the one doing the initiating, your friends may take your passivity as a lack of interest in the friendship,” Levine said. “Sharing your interests with your friends — like asking to simultaneously watch a TV series that you choose during the pandemic, or inviting them to social distance with you in your backyard — enriches the friendship.”
Basically, your friend needs to be reminded that you’re just as invested in the relationship as they are, Levine added.
5. You constantly lean on your friends for emotional support, but they don’t turn to you
When you’re going through a hard time, your closest friends will be by your side to support you. But if you treat every hiccup or minor setback in your life like a crisis, you can’t keep demanding so much of your friends’ time, attention and emotional energy without offering anything in return.
“It can be hard to find a balance between how much support you need and how much your friend can give,” said marriage and family therapist Amanda Baquero. “Your friend may also find it hard to reach out to you to talk about their problems because they don’t want to overwhelm you since you seem to always have a lot going on.”
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The fix: To restore balance in the friendship, make a point to call your friends to check in on them and ask how they’re doing, Baquero said. No ulterior motives — make the conversation about them.
“Also, make sure that when you want to talk about what’s going on with you, try to bring in the positive stuff too,” she added.
Instead of leaning heavily on just one person, try to widen your support network by reaching out to other friends and family, too, “to make sure that you aren’t taking advantage of a giving friend,” Levine said.
And don’t forget to say “thank you” when your friends show up for you and return the favour when they need it.
“If she’s extended herself, make it up to her by inviting her to dinner or finding a way to make her life easier,” Levine said. “Of course, also express your appreciation verbally.”
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6. You don’t respect your friends’ boundaries
Setting boundaries is a crucial part of any healthy relationship. So if, for example, your pal tells you they can’t afford to take a weekend trip right now or they’re not ready to talk about a touchy subject yet and you keep pushing them to get your way, it’s not a good sign, Baquero said.
“If your friends are trying to confide or discuss something about their lives, and you consistently hijack it back to you, it stings and destroys the sense of reciprocity that is so important in friendship.” - Andrea Bonior, psychologist
“It’s important to listen to them and respect their needs,” Baquero said. “Just as you can feel frustrated by having your boundaries pushed, it’s important to acknowledge the same for your friends.”
The fix: Go out of your way to let your friends know that you hear them and understand them when they set a boundary of any kind. Practice taking “no” for an answer. If you’re unsure where they stand on something, ask questions to confirm you’re both on the same page.
“Next time you want to initiate a hangout or talk about something potentially triggering, ask them what they would like to do or reassure them that it’s OK if they don’t want to talk about that with you,” Baquero said.
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7. You resent your friends’ happiness and success
As humans, it’s normal to get jealous from time to time — and those pangs can actually help us uncover things we want to change in our own lives.
But when you begrudge a friend’s new job, house or relationship, so much that it becomes impossible to celebrate their success, that’s another story. Maybe you find yourself competing with your friends or trying to one-up them. Maybe you’re secretly pleased when things don’t work out for them.
“A real friend would be happy for your achievements and good fortune. You want a friend to support your dreams and life goals,” marriage and family therapist Marni Feuerman previously told HuffPost.
The fix: First, don’t beat yourself up over what you’re feeling — give yourself some grace. Instead of trying to suppress the jealousy and hope it disappears (it won’t), acknowledge it and listen to what it might be telling you. And remember that just because it seems like a friend’s life is charmed, doesn’t mean it’s actually perfect. They may be struggling in other ways.
If it feels appropriate, you might even consider telling the friend about how you’re feeling.
“Hearing that someone is envious of us can feel particularly awkward or uncomfortable, regardless of whether it’s something we have control over,” psychologist Miriam Kirmayer wrote in a blog post for Psychology Today. “But saying something like: ‘I know I’ve been a little distant lately and I wanted you to know that it’s because I’ve been struggling with...’ or ‘I want you to know that I’m really happy for you. It’s just hard for me because...’ can be the starting point for a meaningful conversation that will ultimately strengthen your friendship.”
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Donald Trump 'Investigates' Bizarre Theory That Plane Full Of 'Thugs' Crashed Republican Convention

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Donald Trump has said an investigation is under way into a how a plane load of armed “thugs” made their way to the Republican Party convention with the sole purpose of “doing big damage”.
But it’s not clear who is conducting the investigation as there is no evidence the event actually took place, and the government agencies that would be responsible for looking into it have no idea what he’s talking about.
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Speaking to Fox News on Monday, Trump made cryptic claims about armed thugs he said had boarded an airplane seeking trouble.
The president, seeking re-election on a promise to restore “law and order”, said the plane was “completely loaded with thugs wearing these dark uniforms, black uniforms with gear and this and that”.
The president did not specify a date for such an incident, detail what gear the individuals were carrying or say whether anyone was arrested or charged.
He added: “Here were, like, seven people on the plane like this person [a witness], and then a lot of people were on the plane to do big damage.”
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Asked for more details, Trump said: “I’ll tell you sometime, but it’s under investigation right now.”
US security officials said they could not confirm such an incident and officials familiar with law enforcement investigations also expressed puzzlement at the claims, Reuters reports.
On Tuesday the White House doubled down by saying he was referring to an investigation into possible financial backers of “organised riots”.
Again, no further details were provided and law enforcement agencies have not charged any political groups or operatives with fomenting violent protests.
His assertion was similar to rumours posted on Facebook in June about men dressed in black disembarking on planes in Idaho. Local officials at the time said the rumours were untrue.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Strictly Come Dancing Line-Up 2020: All The Stars Confirmed So Far

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It’s still not clear exactly what this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing is going to look like, but at least we now know the celebrities who’ll be hitting the dance floor when the show returns to our screens later this month.
All 12 of the celebrities taking part in the 2020 series have now been unveiled, ranging from actors, comedians and broadcasters to athletes, politicians and one very familiar reality star.
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Here’s a rundown of all of the stars who’ve been confirmed…
Jacqui Smith
BBC
Former MP Jacqui Smith made history in 2007, when she became the first woman to serve as Home Secretary, stepping down from the position two years later following her involvement in the expenses scandal.
She said: “I was speechless with excitement at being asked to join Strictly – and that’s very rare for me.
“Fifty years ago, I got a bronze medal for Scottish Highland Dancing and it feels about time to return to dancing. I couldn’t be in better hands with the Strictly team and I’m going to throw myself into the challenge. Watch out!”
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HRVY
David M. Benett via Getty Images
The 21-year-old pop singer has previously collaborated with Jonas Blue, Sigala and supported Little Mix on their UK tour.
He said: “Being on Strictly is going to be such an amazing experience and I’m so thankful to be taking part this year.
“I think my mum is more excited that she’ll be able to see me every Saturday night now.”
As well as singing, HRVY previously presented the CBBC series Friday Download.
Jamie Laing
David Fisher/Shutterstock
Made In Chelsea star Jamie Laing is being welcomed back to the Strictly ballroom, a year after an injury cost him his spot on the show.
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During filming for last year’s pre-recorded launch show, Jamie landed wrong on his foot, which meant he was unable to proceed with the series, but was invited back for this year’s run.
He joked: “Here we go again, hopefully this time I can last long enough so my mum can see me dance.
“The reason I’m doing it, is to make my mum proud but all I did last year was make her even more disappointed. Let’s change that this year, can’t wait.”
Maisie Smith
Gareth Cattermole via Getty Images
EastEnders fans will recognise Maisie Smith for playing Walford resident Tiffany Butcher-Baker, a character she has portrayed since she was a child.
Describing Strictly as a “dream come true”, she added: “Get me in those sequins, I can’t wait to dive into the Strictly fancy dress box this winter!”
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JJ Chalmers
Chris Jackson via Getty Images
JJ began his career in the Royal Marines, but this was cut short following life-changing injuries he sustained in an explosion in Afghanistan.
Following this, he trained to compete in The Invictus Games, winning three medals as captain of the Trike Cycling team in 2016. More recently, he’s pursued a career in TV presenting, and is now giving the Strictly dance floor a try.
He said: “My whole life is defined by facing challenges. Whether it’s becoming a Royal Marine Commando, recovering from my injuries sustained in Afghanistan to competing in The Invictus Games. Now as a TV Presenter I’m lucky enough to witness some of the greatest sporting contests in the world.
“Strictly is a whole different ball game in respect to the challenges I will face but I’m up for an adventure and at least my mum will know where I am!”
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Bill Bailey
Matt Crossick - PA Images via Getty Images
Bill Bailey is one of the UK’s most recognisable stand-up comics, thanks to his appearances on panel shows like QI and Never Mind The Buzzcocks, on which he was a long-term team captain.
He said he’s signed up for Strictly to “to do something different and take on a new challenge”, particularly given the “strange times we’re living through”.
“I am delighted to be a part of this year’s unique Strictly Come Dancing,” he added. “My late mum Madrin would have loved it – I hope she’ll be watching.”
Nicola Adams
Fred Duval via Getty Images
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Best known for her efforts in the boxing ring, Nicola Adams is a two-time Olympic gold medallist.
She said: “I’m really excited to be joining this year’s incredible line-up for Strictly Come Dancing. I’m a huge fan of the show and am thrilled to be part of something that holds such a special place in so many people’s hearts.”
Excitingly, Nicola will make up one half of Strictly’s much-awaited first ever same-sex pairing, dancing with one of the show’s female professionals when filming gets underway.
The Olympian added: “I also wanted to thank the BBC for supporting me and making me the first ever all female-pairing; and it’s amazing to be a part of the movement for change, diversity and breaking boundaries in the entertainment industry.”
Clara Amfo
Matrix / MediaPunch/MediaPunch/IPx
Undoubtedly one of the most exciting Strictly signings in years, Clara Amfo is known to many for presenting her Radio 1 show from 10am, which is the home of the Live Lounge.
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She’s also cropped up on TV plenty of times, most notably presenting the Brit Awards nominations show and hosting from Glastonbury.
“As we know this year has been a real challenge,” she said. “And escapism through dancing is something I know we all enjoy, so to be taught by a pro and live a fantasy is something that I can’t wait to fully embrace.”
Ranvir Singh
Jeff Spicer via Getty Images
Currently a presenter on Good Morning Britain, Ranvir Singh recently joined the Loose Women panel, and is now giving dancing a go on Strictly.
“The initial feeling of being confirmed for Strictly is one of complete terror,” she admitted. “[It] feels like embarking on a rollercoaster, where you really want to do it but you are equally scared.
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“Hopefully after the first dance I will feel exhilarated rather than sick!”
Max George
David Buchan via Getty Images
A former member of The Wanted, Max George is following in the footsteps of his bandmate Jay McGuiness, who won Strictly back in 2015.
Although he suggested “there’s no chance” he’ll live up to Jay’s success on the dance floor, Max said he’d give it a go, revealing he was “buzzing” to be part of the line-up.
As well as his work in The Wanted, who topped the UK singles chart with tracks like All Time Low and Glad You Came, Max was also briefly a member of the cast of Glee.
Jason Bell
Rich Polk via Getty Images
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A former NFL football player, non-sports fans might know Jason Bell as the former partner of Girls Aloud star Nadine Coyle, with whom he has a six-year-old daughter.
Jason said: “Strictly is the epitome of British television and this year, more than ever, I’m so proud and humbled to be participating. Strictly was the first show I ever watched when I moved to the UK and I’m a massive fan.”
He added: “My six-year-old daughter never got the chance to see me run out on the field at an NFL game but she is very excited about me taking to the dance floor. I hope I can do her proud.”
Caroline Quentin
Eamonn M. McCormack via Getty Images
With credits like Men Behaving Badly, Life Begins and Jonathan Creek to her name, Caroline Quentin was the first of this year’s Strictly stars to be revealed.
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Confessing she was “thrilled and terrified in equal measure to be taking part”, Caroline has also already admitted to having trained as a dancer as a young child, but pointed out on The One Show that her “knees are 50 years older” than when she last danced.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Gaslighting Black Brits On Breakfast TV Has Become The Norm

Femi Oluwole appears on This Morning Screenshot
“Every time the ‘s word’ seems to be used, you seem to have an issue with it.”
Those were the words of presenter and journalist Eamonn Holmes during a discussion on This Morning about whether songs like “Rule, Britannia” and “Land of Hope and Glory” should or shouldn’t be banned from BBC’s Last Night at the Proms, due to their lyrical content and ties to colonialism.
As I sat at home, I watched on, somewhat speechless, as Holmes asked activist Femi Oluwole, a Black person, why they had an issue with the word “slave” on a morning TV show.
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It was yet another sobering reminder that racist discourse is normalised in our society and across the shows we watch – and I hadn’t even consumed my second cup of coffee yet.
“It’s become increasingly obvious to me that, more often than not, these shows are not looking to enlighten or educate, but to gaslight and belittle.”
This is an unfortunate and damaging reality that many Black Brits have to bear witness to. Too often, the unique issues we face are undermined on national television, in front of an audience of millions.
It’s a familiar set up that we know all too well. A prominent Black journalist or public figure is invited to appear on one of these morning shows to share their thoughts and experiences as a Black person in this country. But too often, there experience is met with hostility and they’re chastised for their stance by the presenter – who is usually a white cisgender man.
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It happened to Afua Hirsch during an appearance on Good Morning Britain. While attempting to discuss the racial, sexist and xenophobic undertones beneath the UK tabloid reporting on Meghan Markle, she barely had the opportunity to speak before being berated and spoken over by presenter Piers Morgan.
Similarly, an appearance from Professor Kehinde Andrews on GMB saw him attempt to discuss why Winston Churchill is a controversial figure not to be heralded before being incessantly interrupted by both Morgan and co-host Susanna Reid.
As platforms which are supposedly meant to facilitate discussion, debate and hear other perspectives, some of these morning shows are doing a rather poor job. And this is to the detriment of not only the Black guests who appear, but also the Black viewers who tune in and have to see their very existence and histories debated, questioned, poked and prodded.
I have been approached to appear on platforms to discuss issues regarding race in the UK, and in my earlier years, I was happy to do so. At the time, it seemed like an opportunity to speak on issues of importance to me and my community and enlighten those who were less aware.
But it’s become increasingly obvious to me that, more often than not, these shows are not looking to enlighten or educate, but to gaslight and belittle the lived experiences of their Black guests.
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Constantly debating our right to be upset over racism, discrimination and colonisation can take its toll for both those appearing on the shows and those watching it.
News consumption can have a profound effect on Black mental health and discussing the trauma inflicted on the Black community and the remnants of colonialism and how it affects us until this day is unquestionably difficult. This experience is only heightened when those speaking on our behalf don’t get to express their opinions – opinions that many in our community share.
To constantly see Blackness, what it means, what matters and what doesn’t, debated by people who don’t live that experience, can have a profound, lasting effect. It’s time we consider that seriously both when viewing these shows and considering whether to appear on them.
Representation is important, and for that, I understand why Black figures go on these platforms – to represent their community, for their voices to be heard. But these shows are not trying to hear us. They are gaslighting and minimising our experiences and engaging in an open, healthy and respectful discourse is rarely a part of the plan.
It’s time to take a stand and demand the respect we deserve. We’re more than just talking heads to fit into a five-minute slot to get a rousing debate going that’ll be splashed across newspapers.
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There should be boundaries in place from the producers of these shows that ensure their guests are able to share their opinions, without being bulldozed by these presenters. Not only does it allow for a clear discussion, but it benefits viewers who actually want to hear both perspectives.
And until this is guaranteed, I say, why give these shows the time of day? We should demand better, take a stand and not tolerate appearing on platforms where we can’t vocalise our experiences.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Children’s TV News Is Changing - Can It Inspire Adult News To Grow Up Too?

For the first time in almost half a century, BBC Newsround has stopped broadcasting its teatime edition.
Due to changes in viewing habits, which were perhaps exacerbated by the pandemic, the broadcaster has finally replaced the historic children’s news bulletin with a broader digital output of news which they say is more suited to today’s children.
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“The viewing figures kinda speak for themselves, kids don’t seem to want to come home anymore at 4 o’clock and watch news,” Ricky Boleto, BBC Newsround presenter since 2008, tells HuffPost UK.
The change to the historic scheduling may have surprised viewers, but patterns in the way children intake news has meant change was unavoidable, according to the show.
“We’ve been talking about it for loads and loads of years. We knew it was inevitable and it was coming. There’s a lot of nostalgia to do with the afternoon bulletin,” adds Ricky.
Newsround presenters Laura Jones and Lizo Mzimba pictured in 2003: teachers now using the show in their classrooms may have grown up watching the likes of these two on TV. Jeff Overs via Getty Images
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Nostalgia is perhaps why the BBC delayed the changes for this long - but there’s no arguing that live TV viewing figures have nosedived and that statistically children are getting more news from the internet, either by search engines or apps.
Responding to changing viewing habits, a new longer morning bulletin will be accessible via iPlayer and the CBBC channel to replace the former afternoon show, and a series of digital bulletins will be released on the BBC website at Newsround online throughout the day.
“Our audience is evolving, it’d be ludicrous to not evolve with them,” adds De’Graft Mensah, Newsround presenter since 2019. “There is a feeling of general excitement across the office. This new bulletin means we’ve got the resources to do incredible things online.”
De'Graft Mensah, has been a Newsround presenter since 2019. AMY BRAMMALL
The move has instigated a debate around what constitutes good children’s news in the modern era, both in terms of the way children view the news, and the type of news they view.
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In the twelve years since Ricky started at Newsround, their output has felt increasingly more authentic and progressive, he says.
“It’s really important that we’re relevant and that we focus on what kids want to talk about and that we slip in every now and again the stuff that maybe they don’t want to know about but need to know about.”
It’s also felt more specifically tailored to children: “We’ve ripped up the running orders and we will lead on something completely different, that we know kids are interested in. We’ll lead on fidget spinners - things parents don’t give a toss about.”
BBC Newsround's Ricky Boleto: a presenter since 2008, he has witnessed the programme change BBC
He gives an example of a story they ran recently which epitomises these changes.
“When Trump was in the running to become President and all these allegations were coming out, in relation to sexual attacks, calling women certain things: we had to be careful with how we covered that, but it was such a big story… We had to say he was in trouble for certain things but obviously couldn’t be explicit with what it was.”
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Would they have covered the same story a decade ago? “Probably not - some of the allegations around his conduct, we would have stayed away from.”
This push for authenticity is key for other children’s news outlets, such as First News, which reaches 2.2 million children per day via a printed newspaper and digital outlets.
“Children often tell us they feel reassured after reading First News because we report facts accurately, without some of the sensationalised spin and fear factor that helps to sell adult papers,” says Nicky Cox, MBE and Editor in chief at First News, a rival to Newsround.
Nicky Cox, First News editor First News
“They are more savvy than many adults give them credit for. They are adept at checking more reliable sources of news to ascertain whether things they’ve heard are fake or fact. That’s where we come in.”
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First News aims to appeal to children during their school day: a partnership with Sky allows it to be played out in classrooms, while other schools play Newsround’s morning bulletin.
The First News printed paper. First News
There’s another reason why Newsround in particular has become so popular in classrooms. “A lot of teachers grew up with it, know the power of it and are using it now as a resource,” reckons Ricky from the show.
But Anne Wood, maker of children’s television since the 1960s and creator of the Teletubbies, fears that children’s TV culture must stand apart from the education system. She says that there’s no money in children’s TV which is why its traditional formats are diminishing, and that depleting viewing figures shouldn’t punish the select group of children who wish to return home from school and watch the traditional bulletin.
“There is a heritage of children’s television, a cultural heritage which is being diluted due to the break up of any continuous scheduling,” says Anne, who believes ideals of childhood get redefined in terms of change, and refers to this period as a technological revolution.
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Anne describes “a sense of community” about watching in the afternoon: “On digital everybody isn’t watching at the same time are they?
Anne Wood, creator of Teletubbies. Supplied
“That’s a different thing than having programmes that children relax with, and have a sense of culture to them. Education is recognisably what it is, culture is something different. Culture is a shared thing.”
Another way shows like Newsround may fail to serve audiences is on social media. Most social media platforms like Instagram don’t allow children under 13 to join, which technically means it’s redundant for news outlets to broadcast via them. However, the reality is that younger children will have access to social media and be intaking their news that way too.
Newsround and First News aim to recreate a sense of the culture missed by Anne Wood with their online portals, and with the CBBC bulletins, although it’s too early to tell how the legacy of Newsround will change without the classic bulletin.
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Traditional TV viewing at 6pm or 9pm is unlikely to last for much more than another decade or two. Niyaz_Tavkaev via Getty Images
How much of this change will seep through to adult’s news, given we’re also moving away from terrestrial TV viewing?
“I think in five years we will still have TV news bulletins, particularly for our older generation who still view mainly on linear channels,” says Nicky from First News.
But looking much further ahead she believes it’s unlikely we will, “both because of 24/7 rolling news channels which will increasingly become digital, and because people want to know what’s happening, when it’s happening, rather than waiting for a 6pm catch-up.”
That TV news may not exist in a decade is a prediction backed up by the BBC’s head of news Fran Unsworth, who told The Telegraph recently that “ultimately, in ten years time we won’t be consuming linear bulletins.”
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--This Guy Poses With Furniture He's Giving Away – And It's Brilliant

Sam Ray Sam models some mismatched dining chairs.
“I never would’ve expected people to be so enthusiastic about pictures of me mincing around with furniture,” says Sam Ray, a 23-year-old freelance designer living in London.
Ray has been making quite the name for himself in south London social media circles, as he can often be found artfully poised next to various furnishings.
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The recent graduate is basically a celebrity on the ‘Free Stuff South East London’ Facebook group – and now even further afield – thanks to his newfound talent for flogging free goods.
No wardrobe, metal bed frame or mismatched dining chair is complete without him standing beside it clutching it, or lying down with a solitary foot pointed in the air. Sometimes he’ll clutch his head like he’s forgotten something.
Absolutely obsessed with this guy’s pictures in the Free Stuff in South East London Facebook group 💜 pic.twitter.com/8D5224kJz0 — Wayne David (@WayneDavid81) August 24, 2020
It was a happy accident that he first posed next to a vintage wardrobe. “My housemate had a friend who was maybe interested [in it], but wanted to know how big it was,” he tells HuffPost UK.
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The housemate asked Ray to stand by the wardrobe so her friend could gauge the height – he willingly obliged. Sadly, their friend wasn’t interested, so they put it on the Free Stuff South East London Facebook page in August – and much to their delight, there was huge interest.
“Does the handsome chap come included?” asked one bargain hunter. “Who is he?!?” asked another. “He could convince me to buy a shoebox.”
Sam Ray Sam models a vintage wardrobe.
Ray and his housemates needed to shift a lot of furniture fairly quickly. When they moved in two years ago, the place was unfurnished. They were all students without much money, so they found the free stuff Facebook page and got most of their furniture from there.
“We were told when we moved out, if there was anything in the house that wasn’t on the inventory, we’d be fined per item,” he explains. “So it was really essential we got rid of it all.”
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After the initial wardrobe photo attracted attention, they decided to repost other things they were selling with new photos that included Ray posing. And hilariously, it helped a lot. (In addition to the free price tag, of course.)
Sam Ray Sam models a kitchen table with his leg pointed in the air.
At first, his posts would get a few likes or comments, but before he knew it, they were getting up to 800 likes, with people commenting to say they’d come home from work and check the page to see if he’d posted anything.
“I’ve always liked doing things differently but I never really expect that to be received well or celebrated,” he says.
While he’s had a lot of fun posing with the furniture and making people laugh, he’s also a fan of the environmental impact of opting for secondhand – none of this stuff is going to landfill, it all goes to a new home.
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“I think it’s great that the page is up there,” he says, “because people like us can grab stuff and enjoy it for a bit and then put it back up and let someone else take it and make use of it.”
Sam Ray Sam modelling beside a metal bed frame.
He’s kicked off a trend, too. One person who collected a bookcase from Ray even sent a photo of her brother posing like he did, alongside it.
“It was so sweet and heartwarming,” he says. “It was really flattering and felt nice that I was bringing smiles to people’s faces – especially at the moment.”
“I think if I ever have stuff to give away I’ll do the same again,” he adds. “People were commenting about how they wanted a calendar, so maybe I’ll think about that near the end of the year.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Andy Burnham Slams 'Completely Illogical' Easing Of Bolton and Trafford Coronavirus Restrictions

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Andy Burnham has said the easing of coronavirus restrictions in Bolton and Trafford was “completely illogical”.
The Labour mayor of Greater Manchester said people in Bolton and Trafford should “continue to follow the guidance” not to have social gatherings in their homes.
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“We find ourselves at a completely unsustainable position this morning – that’s the politest way I can put it,” he told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Wednesday morning.
“Overnight we’ve had restrictions released in two boroughs where we’ve got a rising number of cases – in one case in the red zone.
“And neighbouring boroughs are still under restrictions but with much lower numbers of cases.
“These restrictions were always hard to explain to the public but they are completely illogical now.”
The government decided social gatherings between two homes can resume for the first time in weeks from Wednesday in the two boroughs as well as Stockport, Burnley, Hyndburn and parts of Bradford, Calderdale and Kirklees.
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But a sharp increase in the local infection rate in Bolton and Trafford led to council leaders pleading with the government for a delay just hours before restrictions were lifted.
The rate of new coronavirus cases in Bolton has jumped from 18.4 per 100,000 people in the seven days to August 22 to 59.1 in the seven days to August 29, with 170 new cases, making it the second worst in the country for infections rates after Pendle with 71.7 per 100,000 people.
Similarly, the rate in Trafford has also risen, from 19.4 to 35.4, with 84 new cases.
But the decision to lift restrictions was backed by Conservative MP Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers, who told the Manchester Evening News last week that he found it “odd” for Trafford Council to object.
The MP for Altrincham and Sale West said he was left “unpersuaded” by the council for the need of an extension and asked for more data on hospital admissions and positive test rates.
Council leaders in Trafford had recommended that restrictions be maintained to wait for more evidence of a sustained downward trend in positive cases but were overruled by the government.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Ant And Dec Lead Tributes To BGT Warm-Up Star Ian Royce Following His Death, Aged 51

Tributes are being paid to comedian Ian Royce, who has died at the age of 51.
Ian was best known as the long-time warm-up act on TV shows like The X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent.
On Tuesday night, Ian’s daughter Roxanne announced on Twitter that her father had died “from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure”.
“He was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family,” she said. “He put up a good fight but is in a better place now.”
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It is with our greatest regret that we have to tell you all that Ian has passed away today from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure. He was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family. He put up a good fight but is in a better place now. Roxanne x — Ian Royce (@officialroycey) September 1, 2020
Shortly after the news was announced, stars including Ant and Dec, Piers Morgan and Amanda Holden – who worked with Ian on BGT for many years – paid tribute on social media.
Ian Royce at the Syco summer party in 2018 Can Nguyen/Shutterstock
“We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce,” Ant and Dec tweeted. “He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years.
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“Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family. RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you.”
We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce. (@officialroycey) He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years. Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family. RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you. X — antanddec (@antanddec) September 1, 2020
Piers shared a photo of himself and Ian on the set of Life Stories, remembering him as the “funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry”.
He wrote: “Worked with him on @BGT, @AGT & most of my Life Stories shows.
“Great guy, very loyal friend, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne. Thanks for all the laughs mate.”
RIP Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce.
Funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry. Worked with him on @BGT, @AGT & most of my Life Stories shows. Great guy, very loyal friend, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne. Thanks for all the laughs mate. pic.twitter.com/gmqfi88fI8 — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 1, 2020
Amanda then tweeted: “So sad to hear the sad news of @officialroycey who was our warm up man and friend on @bgt... just an absolute tragedy. Mine and my family’s thoughts go out to Roxy his lovely daughter.”
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So sad to hear the sad news of @officialroycey who was our warm up man and friend on @bgt .. just an absolute tragedy. Mine and my family’s thoughts go out to Roxy his lovely daughter 🙏🏻 — Amanda Holden (@AmandaHolden) September 1, 2020
Other celebrities who knew and worked with Ian, including Dermot O’Leary, Myleene Klass, Kate Thornton and Davina McCall also expressed their sadness over the news.
So sorry to hear this, worked with Ian for many years on the X. Thoughts and prayers with Roxy and family. X https://t.co/vx9TJrpEvW — Dermot O'Leary (@radioleary) September 1, 2020
I’m so sorry to hear this news Roxanne. He was extremely kind, loving and supportive to me and my girls. I will raise a glass tonight to this extraordinarily talented, kindhearted, loyal man. 🙏 — Myleene Klass (@KlassMyleene) September 1, 2020
Oh Roxanne . I’m so sorry . 💔 thinking of you ... — Davina McCall (@ThisisDavina) September 1, 2020
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Literally cannot believe this! Such sad news! RIP roycey and may God bless your family 😢💛 https://t.co/3PK6DfoHCh — JB Gill (@JBGill) September 1, 2020
We'll miss you Roycey.
You brightened up so very many studio days ❤
Rest in peace my friend 😔 😔 https://t.co/esEAPNcBGL — Carol Vorderman (@carolvorders) September 1, 2020
So sad to hear this. One of the nicest guys I ever met. RIP Roycey. Thoughts with friends and family https://t.co/soJ1jgimLZ — Paul Potts (@paulpottsmusic) September 1, 2020
Rest in peace brilliant man ❤ — Denise Van Outen 🌈❤ (@denise_vanouten) September 1, 2020
This is so sad!!! I had a great laugh with Ian on the X factor!!! Such a funny talented guy!!!! R.I.P mate x fly high in the sky and go make people laugh xx 😢 https://t.co/b1TJPpJJE0 — Sam Bailey Official (@SamBaileyREAL) September 2, 2020
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Nicola Adams Will Be Strictly’s First Ever Same-Sex Celeb Pairing As Boxer Is Confirmed For New Seri

Nicola Adams Will Be Strictly’s First Ever Same-Sex Celeb Pairing As Boxer Is Confirmed For New Series

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Nicola Adams is set to become part of Strictly Come Dancing’s first ever same-sex pairing after the Olympic boxer was confirmed for the new series of the BBC dance show.
The double Olympic gold medallist is the sixth celebrity contestant confirmed for the 18th series, which will return in the autumn.
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Nicola Adams Tristan Fewings via Getty Images
Speaking about being signed up for the new series, Nicola said: “I’m really excited to be joining this year’s incredible line-up for Strictly Come Dancing. I’m a huge fan of the show and am thrilled to be part of something that holds such a special place in so many people’s hearts.
“People might know me from work in the ring, but I’ll be every bit as passionate and dedicated on the dance-floor too.”
Nicola added: “I also wanted to thank the BBC for supporting me and making me the first ever all female-pairing; and it’s amazing to be a part of the movement for change, diversity and breaking boundaries in the entertainment industry.”
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The boxer, who won gold at both the London 2012 Olympics and Rio 2016, is dating Ella Baig and has been praised as an LGBTQ role model.
Clara Amfo Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP
The show will be shorter this year because of precautions surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
Bruno Tonioli will be missing from the judging panel for Saturday night shows when the series returns later this year because he is in Los Angeles, where he is on the panel for the US version of the show, Dancing With The Stars, and will not be able to travel back and forth.
However, he will be involved remotely in the Sunday night results show each week and will return to the show full-time towards the end of the series.
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Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood are all expected to return to their judging roles.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Trump’s Latest Excuse: Covid-19 Only Counts When It Kills The Perfectly Healthy

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Hours before the US surpassed 6 million coronavirus cases and reached a death toll of 183,000, President Donald Trump and his defenders seized on an amateurish misreading of federal data to claim that the Covid-19 pandemic has killed hardly anyone at all.
It started Sunday when Trump retweeted a QAnon conspiracist who claimed that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “quietly” “admit[ted] that only 6%” of coronavirus casualties “actually died from Covid.”
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Twitter removed the tweet, saying it violated the platform’s rules. But it quickly became the party line. Gateway Pundit, a far-right conspiracist website, accused the CDC of releasing its data “quietly,” while Dinesh D’Souza, the right-wing polemicist, called it “a brewing scandal of epic proportions.” Trump’s legal adviser Jenna Ellis retweeted the Gateway Pundit post. White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany repeated the falsehood on Monday as fact.
The implication of the message is that the vast majority of pandemic victims were already at death’s door because of another condition. But that’s not what the data says.
What is misleading and minimising about blaming preexisting conditions for the coronavirus death toll, or treating people with preexisting conditions as inevitable casualties of the pandemic, is that more than half of US adults have some type of underlying medical condition. It also risks suggesting to Americans that the illness is dangerous to only a select group of people.
The false claims stem from a misinterpretation of a routine CDC update about national coronavirus figures.
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What that data shows is that among deaths determined to be related to the coronavirus, 6% of the death certificates list Covid-19 as the sole cause of death and 94% list a variety of “additional conditions or causes.” Some “additional causes” were chronic medical conditions such as diabetes. Others were common symptoms of coronavirus, such as respiratory failure, pneumonia and cardiac arrest.
The upshot is that not all “additional causes” point to a preexisting condition. And it is not possible, from the CDC’s superficial figures, to tell who might have had a preexisting illness but died primarily of the coronavirus, or who would have lived for years if they hadn’t contracted the deadly disease.
“The measure of the impact of a pandemic is its impact on the population as it already exists, not its impact on a small, healthy, isolated population with no preexisting conditions.” - Dr. Nancy Krieger, a professor of social epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
But Trump supporters have falsely represented those figures to mean that only 6% of Covid-19 victims truly died of Covid-19.
“That is just ridiculous,” said Dr Nancy Krieger, a professor of social epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. What death certificates should reflect and how they should be filled out raise complicated questions even among physicians, she said, and the overview released by the CDC is way too superficial to draw sweeping conclusions about who would and would not have died if it weren’t for the coronavirus infection.
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“Anyone who thinks they can say off the top of their heads what they think a death certificate says is absolutely wrong,” Krieger said. “It’s not straightforward, and it requires knowledge, not opinion.”
A more accurate measure of the pandemic and its enormous toll comes from excess mortality, Krieger said. Since March, when the pandemic started, the United States has suffered 200,000 more deaths than usual.
“The measure of the impact of a pandemic is its impact on the population as it already exists, not its impact on a small, healthy, isolated population with no preexisting conditions. … That’s not how diseases work,” she said. “To the extent that some people are just now waking up and realising, ‘Oh, wow, a lot of people are not doing so great, in terms of their health’ — that’s an important public health awakening, but that’s not a reason to say Covid only counts if it kills people who seem to be otherwise healthy.”
“It’s important to recognize that it’s not some ‘other people’ that are vulnerable.” - Caitlin Rivers, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security
Public health experts, including those at the CDC, have warned throughout the pandemic that people with certain preexisting health conditions are at higher risk for severe complications or death from contracting the coronavirus.
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Conditions that are high-risk include extremely common ones, such as diabetes, obesity, kidney disease and heart disease. Experts also urge extra caution for people with asthma, lung disease and high blood pressure, or those who are pregnant or who smoke. Just one of those conditions, obesity, affects an estimated 42.4% of adults in the US.
“It’s important to recognise that it’s not some ‘other people’ that are vulnerable,” Caitlin Rivers, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, told The New York Times in May. “The kinds of conditions that put people at higher risk are extremely common.”
Blaming health risk factors also obscures the role that racial and economic inequality plays in determining who suffers severely or dies of Covid-19.
People of colour, especially Black and Latinx people, are more likely to live with underlying medical conditions and to lack health insurance or adequate health care needed to manage those conditions. But a growing body of evidence shows that underlying health disparities are not adequate to explain why Black and Latinx people are dying of Covid-19 disproportionately.
“They’re getting more exposure,” Krieger said. People are more likely to contract the coronavirus if they work essential and service jobs that cannot be done remotely, ride public transportation or live in small or crowded living spaces due to lower wages. “And guess who’s most overrepresented in those categories?”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Trump Compares Police Shooting Of Jacob Blake To Golfer Who ‘Chokes’ During Putt

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Donald Trump compared the Wisconsin police officer who shot an unarmed Black man in the back seven times to a golfer who “chokes” by missing an easy putt.
He was referring to the shooting of a 29-year-old Black father, Jacob Blake, which was caught on video and has kicked off a new wave of protests against police violence, as well as several nights of civil unrest.
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But Trump defended the police, saying they’re the ones “under siege.”
“They can do 10,000 great acts, which is what they do, and one bad apple ― or a choker,” he said. “Y’know a choker. They choke.”
He elaborated:
“Shooting the guy, shooting the guy in the back many times, I mean, couldn’t you have done something different? Couldn’t you have wrestled him? I mean, in the meantime, he might’ve been going for a weapon and there’s a whole big thing there. But they choke. Just like in a golf tournament, they miss a three-foot putt.”
Fox News host Laura Ingraham interjected.
“You’re not comparing it to golf,” she said as Trump compared it to golf. “Of course, that’s what the media will say.”
But Trump pushed forward with his analogy.
“I’m saying people choke,” Trump reiterated.
“People panic,” Ingraham tried to correct.
“People choke,” Trump repeated. “You could be a police officer for 15 years and all of a sudden you’re confronted. You’ve got a quarter of a second to make a decision. If you don’t make a decision and you’re wrong, you’re dead. People choke under those circumstances and they make a bad decision.”
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Trump’s Fox News Meltdown Over ‘People In Dark Shadows’ Lights Up Twitter

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President Donald Trump sat down with Laura Ingraham for a lengthy interview on Fox News Monday and his critics couldn’t decide on the wildest part.
Trump attacked Black Lives Matter, saying the name alone was “bad for Black people” and compared the police officer who shot a Black man in the back seven times to a golfer who missed an easy putt.
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“We had somebody get on a plane from a certain city this weekend. And in the plane, it was almost completely loaded with thugs, wearing these dark uniforms, black uniforms, with gear and this and that.”
Trump claimed the people on the plane wanted to “do big damage” to the Republican National Convention, yet offered no other details.
The president’s claims were so wild that Ingraham jumped in to try and save him several times.
The strange interview was all the talk on Twitter:
All of you idiots making fun of Donald and ignoring the VERY CLEAR information he’s trying to convey — people in the dark shadows who are getting on planes in black uniforms and flying to cities. Shadow People Dressed In Black On Airplanes. WAKE UP. https://t.co/ZhW5hX2HRV — Patton Oswalt (@pattonoswalt) September 1, 2020
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You know things are bad when Laura Ingraham has to save President Trump from saying stupid things. https://t.co/jBBp9x7e4U — Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) September 1, 2020
I'm sorry, but Trump's Laura Ingraham interview is comedy gold... If only the fate the free world weren't at stake. — Randi Mayem Singer (@rmayemsinger) September 1, 2020
Is this dude ok? https://t.co/pq9vKRJHe8 — Joy Reid (@JoyAnnReid) September 1, 2020
Trump should just keep doing TV all the time because it's going great for him. — Schooley (@Rschooley) September 1, 2020
When you need to be saved by Laura Ingraham, it’s not good. https://t.co/FOpiTPihE1 — Kara Swisher (@karaswisher) September 1, 2020
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you know you’ve got a problem when you can’t even interview with laura ingraham and not just machine gun your own feet the whole time — kilgore trout, non ass-talker (@KT_So_It_Goes) September 1, 2020
Trump says "people are pulling Biden's strings."
When pressed who, he says. "people that you've never heard of."
Trump is off the deep end folks! https://t.co/hO4h8c8QCH — Amy Siskind 🏳🌈 (@Amy_Siskind) September 1, 2020
If that was the part of the Laura Ingraham interview of Donald Trump that the editors decided was good to put on the air, what the hell did they edit out? — JRehling (@JRehling) September 1, 2020
Tonight Trump talked about people in the dark shadows controlling Biden and a plane full of people wearing black uniforms and more. And a lot of people are saying he's nuts.
He's not. This is a deliberate appealing to QAnon. Stop underestimating him. That's what got us here. — Joshua Potash (@JoshuaPotash) September 1, 2020
She missed the follow up here; Dark Shadows the original TV show or the movie? — Joyce Alene (@JoyceWhiteVance) September 1, 2020
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Dark Shadows is trending? Barnabas is pleased. pic.twitter.com/FaEPSAyNNo — V-Revolticon (@VRevolticon) September 1, 2020
I’d maybe just run this as a 30-second ad https://t.co/K9TmBjTauI — Jon Favreau (@jonfavs) September 1, 2020
Oh my. “Dark shadows” and “people wearing black uniforms.” How much is it worth to you that this unwell man is not president? $1? $10? $100? Step up and save America from this lunatic. Elect @JoeBiden at: https://t.co/8cqOQN2Ny3 https://t.co/JhW4LjK0kF — Eric Swalwell (@ericswalwell) September 1, 2020
The cops "CHOKED"?!? Trump saying the Cops in Kenosha that just SHOT an Unarmed African-American man 7 times in the back "CHOKED...like in Golf" . Trump's so bad EVEN Laura Ingraham herself stopped him & Cut Trump off for damage control!🤬🤦🏼♂ pic.twitter.com/gLWjACFfpg — DanielNewmaη (@DanielNewman) September 1, 2020
Trump couldn't even get through a softball, super-friendly Laura Ingraham interview tonight without spiking himself multiple times and Laura having to repeatedly interject in an effort to save Trump from himself.
But Biden's supposedly the one fearing the debates. — Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) September 1, 2020
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This is batshit, unhinged lunacy. Trump claims that “dark, shadowy forces” are controlling Biden, and that literall plane loads of Antifa folks dressed in black and riot gear are flying around the country fomenting mayhem. https://t.co/ypMBpHhx75 — Brad Simpson (@bradleyrsimpson) September 1, 2020


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Clara Amfo Is The Fifth Celeb Confirmed For Strictly Come Dancing

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Clara Amfo is the fifth celebrity contestant confirmed for this year’s series of Strictly Come Dancing.
Speaking about signing up to the BBC dance show, the radio and TV presenter said: “As we know this year has been a real challenge and escapism through dancing is something I know we all enjoy, so to be taught by a pro and live a fantasy is something that I can’t wait to fully embrace, see you on the dance floor.”
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Clara Amfo Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP
Nicola Adams will also feature in this year’s series and be paired with a female dancer in a first for Strictly.
The Olympian, who won gold at both the London 2012 Olympics and Rio 2016, is dating Ella Baig and has been praised as an LGBTQ role model.
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Nicola Adams Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP
The show will be shorter this year because of precautions surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
Bruno Tonioli will be missing from the judging panel for Saturday night shows when the series returns later this year because he is in Los Angeles, where he is on the panel for the US version of the show, Dancing With The Stars, and will not be able to travel back and forth.
However, he will be involved remotely in the Sunday night results show each week and will return to the show full-time towards the end of the series.
Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood are all expected to return to their judging roles.
The show would usually return at the end of September, with the final just before Christmas, but its 2020 launch is expected to be slightly delayed.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--Good Morning Britain's Ranvir Singh Confirmed For Strictly Come Dancing

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Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh is the fourth celebrity to be officially confirmed for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The journalist and broadcaster joins Max George, Jonathan Creek actress Caroline Quentin and former NFL player Jason Bell who were all announced on Tuesday.
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Ranvir said: “The initial feeling of being confirmed for Strictly is one of complete terror – feels like embarking on a rollercoaster, where you really want to do it but you are equally scared.
“Hopefully after the first dance I will feel exhilarated rather than sick!”
Ranvir Singh Karwai Tang via Getty Images
George, 31, Quentin, 60, and Bell, 42, were all unveiled on Tuesday’s The One Show.
Radio presenter Clara Amfo and Olympic boxer Nicola Adams will also feature on this year’s series, with the latter set to be paired with a female dancer in a first for the show.
Nicola, who won gold at both the London 2012 Olympics and Rio 2016, is dating Ella Baig and has been praised as an LGBTQ role model.
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Nicola Adams Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP
The show will be shorter this year because of precautions surrounding the coronavirus pandemic.
Bruno Tonioli will be missing from the judging panel for Saturday night shows when the series returns later this year because he is in Los Angeles, where he is on the panel for the US version of the show, Dancing With The Stars, and will not be able to travel back and forth.
However, he will be involved remotely in the Sunday night results show each week and will return to the show full-time towards the end of the series.
Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood are all expected to return to their judging roles.
The show would usually return at the end of September, with the final just before Christmas, but its 2020 launch is expected to be slightly delayed.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--'Heartless' Boris Johnson Accused Of U-Turn After Declining To Meet Bereaved Families

“It’s a U-turn followed by a U-turn,” said campaign co-founder Jo Goodman, who lost her father Stuart to the virus.
“The prime minister has done a 360: dodging five letters, then agreeing on live TV to meet with us, and now quietly telling us he’s too busy. It’s heartless.”
Liberal Democrat MP Layla Moran had earlier written to the PM saying she was “shocked” to learn that he had “refused” to meet the group – which says it represents 1,600 families.
Last Wednesday, Johnson told Sky News: “I am not aware of those letters but I will of course write back to every letter we get.
“Of course I will meet the bereaved.”
But writing to Goodman, the PM acknowledged “a letter will be of little comfort against the grief and heartbreak that families have suffered” as he declined a meeting.
“As much as I would wish to be able to offer my condolences in person to all those who have suffered loss, that is regrettably not possible and so I am unable to meet with you and members of Bereaved Families for Justice,” he wrote.
Johnson also said he understands the group have instructed solicitors who are in pre-action legal correspondence over an independent inquiry.
He said he will hold the inquiry “at the appropriate time” and urged all further correspondence to be dealt with by their respective legal teams.
A Downing Street spokeswoman said: “The prime minister has responded to Bereaved Families For Justice to express his sincere condolences to all families who have sadly lost loved ones to this terrible disease.
“He remains committed to meeting with members of the public and families of key workers who have been bereaved as a result of Covid-19.
“The prime minister is resolute in his determination to beat this virus and prevent further families from suffering such dreadful loss.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--What Chadwick Boseman Taught Us About Black History

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It felt as if the world stopped spinning when Chadwick Boseman died.
I had just spent my Friday evening watching Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods, in which Boseman plays Stormin’ Norman, the courageous leader of a team of Black soldiers in the 1st Infantry Division who was killed during the Vietnam War, when I heard the news.
My friend, with whom I had discussed the film earlier that day, called and told me she didn’t know Boseman had really died. I tried to correct her, telling her it was only in the film, until she told me I was mistaken and that he had really died at age 43 from colorectal cancer. It felt like I had been punched in the gut. From the looks of my timeline, I wasn’t alone.
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For 20 minutes, the only image I saw as I scrolled was a black-and-white photo of Boseman flashing his infectious smile as people began reacting to the news.
Everyone was experiencing the same level of shock. For months, we’ve been fighting against COVID-19 and systemic racism and less than a week after Jacob Blake was shot in his back seven times by police in Kenosha, Wisconsin, leaving him paralysed from the waist down, it felt like we didn’t have much else to lose. That, plus the heroes we’ve already had to bury this year, meant Boseman’s death felt personal for us all.
Boseman was so much more than an actor. He gave Black stories, both real and fictional, the dignity and wholeness that they deserve but too often don’t receive in Hollywood. His dedication to telling the stories of Black American icons was consistent — so much so that the running joke was that if filmmakers were making a biopic of a Black person, Boseman already had the role.
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But his portrayals of Jackie Robinson in 42, James Brown in Get On Up and Thurgood Marshall in Marshall show just how much reverence the Anderson, South Carolina, native had for the icons he played.
That’s because to Boseman our history was one of regality. He believed that and he carried himself in a similar manner. It made him the perfect choice to play King T’Challa in Black Panther, making history as the first Black actor to star in a major comic book movie, which broke records, barriers and limitations for so many.
While accepting the award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture at the 2019 Screen Actors Guild Awards for Black Panther, Boseman spoke about the burden of being “young, gifted and Black.”
“We know what it’s like to be told to say there’s not a screen for you to be featured on, a stage for you to be featured on,” he said. “We know what it’s like to be a tail and not the head. We know what it’s like to be beneath and not above. And that is what we went to work with every day. Because we knew — not that we would be around during awards season and that it would make a billion dollars — but we knew that we had something special that we wanted to give the world; that we could be full human beings in the roles that we were playing; that we could create a world that exemplified a world that we wanted to see.”
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Boseman was well aware of the doors his role would open for others to help build a Hollywood reflective of the diverse world we live in today. He knew the power of depicting the continent of Africa as gloriously as possible, even through fictional Wakanda. He knew the imaginations he would help expand as he gave little Black kids a superhero who looked like them whom they could look up to.
The news of his death was shockingly painful, but myself and so many others found comfort in the communal digital mourning that unfolded in our socially distant present.
Videos of Boseman’s commencement speech on the importance of finding purpose over a job at our shared alma mater, Howard University, made my heart warm. Boseman’s Black Jeopardy skit condemning Karen’s raisin-tainted potato salad made me laugh. And even the general sentiment of people understanding the importance of kindness on social media apps that often breed the opposite made me hopeful, even if only for a day.
Parents also posted photos and videos of their children commemorating their hero with their own homegoing services. Thousands signed a petition calling for a statue of Boseman to replace a Confederate memorial in his hometown.
MY BABY BOY AND THE AVENGERS HOLDING A MEMORIAL FOR BLACK PANTHER❤💪🏾#Wakanda4Ever pic.twitter.com/nYAnER23Ig — King Westbrook (@KingWestbrook7) August 29, 2020
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Boseman stood on the shoulders of giants and he didn’t miss a beat to place others on his shoulders until the very end. While privately fighting his own battle, he spent time supporting and inspiring kids with cancer.
At the 2018 MTV Movie and TV Awards, he gave his award to James Shaw Jr., who disarmed a gunman and saved lives at a Waffle House in Antioch, Tennessee. If that wasn’t enough, there were the scores of memories and testimonies to his greatness from the likes of Denzel Washington, Phylicia Rashad, Angela Bassett, Ryan Coogler, Michael B. Jordan, Danai Gurira, Democratic vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris, author Ta-Nehisi Coates and so many others.
He wore a heavy crown that required so much of him, yet he never bowed his head or disappointed. He always delivered. Boseman lived up to the gold standard of a king while working to make sure that Black people recognise that we are regal; he made sure we know we wear crowns, too. And that’s what it felt like watching 42, Black Panther and anything else in which he graced our screens.
Boseman’s life was undoubtedly short, but he made the most of it and lived courageously in his purpose. As we collectively grieve, I think about all that we’ve gained because of his commitment to making sure that we’re seen, heard and humanised. I think about a now ancestor that paved the way for starry-eyed Black kids who stared at the big screen in Black Panther costumes. And I think about the history he put on a pedestal while paving a way for those to come.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--The 10 Best Instagram Recipes From August 2020

The HuffPost Taste Instagram account reflects the foods that readers are craving at any given moment.
In July, readers unexpectedly dismissed refreshing summer fare in favour of Swedish meatball pasta, fried mac and cheese, and cinnamon buns. But in August, it seems everyone’s tastes finally came around to the idea of summer, because this month’s list is filled with homemade ice creams, juicy peach desserts and fresh salads.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-09-02--GoFundMe Page To 'Kill Gina Miller' Sees Anti-Brexit Campaigner Call For New Laws

Gina Miller said she felt a 'chill down my spine' when she saw the GoFundMe page PA
Campaigner Gina Miller has demanded tighter regulation for fundraising platforms after GoFundMe hosted a “Kill Gina Miller” crowdfunder – for five months.
The GoFundMe page read: “We want to raise £10,000 to hire a contract killer to kill Gina Miller. The traitor of democracy.”
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Despite the fact the page remained live for so long, the fundraising platform has been absolved of blame over the incident and avoided any kind of penalty.
In a statement, the platform said it had apologised to Miller “and implemented even more rigorous protocols since this incident”.
“No crowdfunding platform has more robust protections than GoFundMe,” a spokesperson said.
But Miller has warned that the government must push forward new laws that would hold online platforms to account if they failed to tackle harmful or extreme content.
The businesswoman – who has led two successful legal challenges against the government in the Supreme Court – said she felt “chills down my spine” when she first saw the page.
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“It was absolutely shocking,” Miller told HuffPost UK. “It’s inciting violence – somebody could have seen that page and thought: ‘It’s OK for me to go and kill her’.
“I just kept thinking: ‘In the last five months, somebody could have just walked up and killed me.’ It was literally thought that went through my mind.”
In October, when the crowdfunder was reported to police and removed by GoFundMe, the BBC reported the page had not received any donations.
In a statement, Miller added: “The fact that GoFundMe allowed this page to be set up and remain active and accept donations for such a long time should concern us all.
“It highlights a growing concern that there is a sinister side to fundraising platforms, due to what appears to be a lack of due diligence or algorithms to detect harm or scams.”
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In July, Barry Aslam – who set up the crowdfunder – pleaded guilty to “sending a letter causing anxiety/distress” and was handed a 26-week sentence, suspended for 12 months. He was also ordered to pay Miller £200 compensation.
“It’s absolutely outrageous,” Miller said. “£200 compensation when my children could have been left without their mother? From a personal point of view, I’m disgusted.
“But think about the much wider message it sends out that you can get less than a speeding fine for threatening to kill somebody.”
She has urged ministers to bring forward the Online Harms Bill – legislation that would be used to hold online platforms to account if they fail to tackle harmful or extreme content online.
The new laws could see these companies required to take on a “duty of care” for their users.
But in June, it was revealed that the landmark bill – which is still in the proposal stage – could be delayed until 2024.
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Miller called the potential set-back “completely unbelievable”, saying online platforms must have a duty of care towards users.
“This has to be taken very seriously,” she said. “Crime is moving online – from money laundering and trafficking to threats of violence or abuse.
“It’s like cowboy-land and nobody is policing. If crime has moved online, regulation and policing needs to move online too.”