Daily Skimm: Sometimes who you are is enough

September 7, 2021

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FX Impeachment American Crime Story 09-07-2021

Skimm’d while clearing tonight’s cal for FX’s new drama

Quote of the Day

“Tell us what you need us to do and we'll figure it out” – *NSYNC’s Chris Kirkpatrick on a potential collab with Drake. The possibility is tearin’ up our hearts.

Labor Day Woes

The Story

Labor Day was a dark day for millions of Americans.

Tell me.

Many lost their federal unemployment benefits. Just days after learning the eviction moratorium wouldn't be extended. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the gov has spent nearly $800 billion on jobless benefits to help keep Americans afloat amid COVID-19. Including things like a $300 weekly federal unemployment bonus and aid for gig workers who are usually left out. But yesterday, three federal unemployment benefit programs came to an end. And many Americans are left worrying about how they'll make ends meet.

Go on.

Across the US, 26 states already ended federal unemployment benefits weeks ago. Now, the federal gov's doing the same. Even as last month’s jobs report disappointed economists with its low performance. And despite reported concerns from White House officials that the abrupt end could lead many to poverty. It all comes as the delta variant continues to spread in the US. This Labor Day reportedly saw a 316% increase in daily coronavirus cases compared to last year's. And daily deaths are nearly twice as high and hospitalizations are up.

So, what now?

It's unclear. But an estimated 9 million Americans will lose all unemployment benefits. About 3 million will lose their weekly $300 bonus. Additionally, more than 15 million people reportedly risk eviction. And the drop in benefits could especially impact women and people of color. However, some Democratic lawmakers are considering a $3.5 trillion spending bill that'll in part focus on social benefits (think: free pre-K and an extended child tax credit). But it’s already getting pushback from lawmakers for its large price tag and what it could mean for the country's economy.

theSkimm

Labor Day honors the American worker. But as COVID-19 variants take the driver's seat and unemployment benefits expire, it leaves many wondering what the fall holds in store for workers and the economy.

Psst…we Skimm'd how to navigate your finances after losing your income.

And Also...This

What’s ready to play defense…

The Justice Dept. Yesterday, Attorney General Merrick Garland said the DOJ will “protect” Texan women who are seeking abortions. And that it’s exploring “all options” to challenge the Lone Star State’s controversial abortion ban. Last week, the Supreme Court refused to block the state’s law banning abortions as early as six weeks. And incentivizing private citizens to sue those who break the law – earning at least $10,000 if their lawsuit is successful. It’s one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the country. And one of the most serious threats to Roe v Wade. President Biden promised a “whole-of-government” response to help combat the Texas law. Now, the DOJ’s getting involved.

The details: The DOJ plans to help those who seek abortions via the FACE Act – a 1994 law that makes it illegal to physically prevent or threaten someone from getting reproductive health services. And is calling on US attorneys and the FBI in Texas to protect clinics and health centers.
Businesses, too: Lyft and Uber are pledging to pay their drivers' legal fees, should they be sued under Texas's law. And Lyft's donating $1 million to Planned Parenthood.

Who’s being remembered…

Michael K Williams. Yesterday, the actor known for his roles in “The Wire” and “Boardwalk Empire” was found dead in his NYC apartment. He was 54. Authorities are investigating his cause of death. In recent years, Williams has opened up about his struggles with substance abuse, calling addiction an “everyday struggle.” Throughout his career, the Brooklyn native has received five Emmy nods including for his work in “When They See Us,” “The Night Of,” “Bessie,” and (most recently) “Lovecraft Country.” Friends and fans paid tribute to him on social media, calling him “a beautiful, passionate, expansive soul.”

Where things are still changing...

Afghanistan. Yesterday, the Taliban announced it had seized Panjshir – the last remaining province not under their rule – cementing their total control over Afghanistan. Weeks before US ended its nearly 20-year-war, the Islamist militant group took over Kabul – prompting a mass evacuation effort of Americans and Afghan allies. Now, the Taliban’s claiming new territorial gains over the region for the first time ever (they didn’t control Panjshir during their previous rule). And is expected to announce its new gov soon.

Still fighting: A spokesman for the resistance is disputing the Taliban's claim – saying they'll continue to fight "until justice and freedom prevails.”
Evac efforts: Yesterday, the US said it helped evacuate four more Americans from Afghanistan – the first group since the full withdrawal. But dozens more remain.

What people are watching…

Guinea. On Sunday, special forces staged a coup, and said they detained President Alpha Condé over alleged corruption. In 2010, Condé was Guinea’s first democratically elected president. And his gov helped boost the country’s economy thanks to mineral mining and exports. But there were allegations that mining operations hurt rural communities in Guinea. And that the economic boost wasn’t helping most Guineans. In 2020, violent protests erupted after Condé changed the constitution so he could run a third time...and win. Now, the coup leader announced that the gov and constitution have been dissolved. And that a new gov could be formed in a few weeks. The African Union, UN, and US have condemned the apparent coup. And are calling for the president’s release.

Who’s standing strong…

Sloane Stephens. Over the weekend, the American tennis player opened up about the over 2,000 threatening and racist messages she's received since losing at this year's US Open. The tennis star – who is Black – joined other athletes in calling out hate (see: this and this), saying the abuse was “exhausting and never ending.”

Who’s getting an ‘adios’...

Christopher Columbus.

Thing to Know

Precontemplation

The first stage of behavior change, according to the *adjusts glasses on nose* transtheoretical model. Aka when you’re not yet motivated to switch things up anytime soon.

Precontemplation comes before contemplation (yep, when you start to think about it), preparation (when you start experimenting with baby steps), action (when you really go for it), and maintenance (when you do all you can to make the change last). No matter where you’re at, Noom can help. They use psychology, science, and cutting-edge tech to help people form – and stick to – healthy habits. Oh, and Skimm’rs get a free 14-day trial. So, go ahead. Take their short quiz. And move on from precontemplation already.

Office Hours: How To Align Your Investments With Your Values

Putting money in the market can be intimidating. Especially the part where you have to pick what to invest in to (hopefully) turn your money into more money. And if you also want your $$$ to make a positive impact in the world? You might not know where to start.

That’s where sustainable investing – and our upcoming virtual event – come in. On Thursday, September 9, at 7:30pm ET, we’re chatting with Fidelity’s Head of ESG Investing about what it actually means to align your investments with your values. She’ll also answer some Skimm’r Qs. Like “What do I need to look out for when evaluating an opportunity?” and “How often do you check to see if a company's practices still align with your values?” You don’t wanna miss it. RSVP here.

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. How to get rid of those pesky expression lines. *Unfurrows eyebrows immediately.* PCA SKIN’s advanced serum lifts, tightens, firms, and smooths. Plus, it’s full of peptides. Aka protein building blocks your skin will love. Just use twice daily for full effect. Skin-win.*

2. A unique way to satisfy those 3 pm munchies. This brand makes it easy to build custom snack stashes. They’ve got over 1,000 food, bev, and merch options. Including some verrrrryyyy sweet-looking made-to-order items (hiii, berry crumb pie). Oh, and Skimm’rs get 10% off.*

3. Wallet-friendly boots that were made for walking. And by walking, we mean strutting...right into the fall season. Saks OFF 5TH has tons of brands to up your shoe game. Like Sam Edelman, Dolce Vita, and Stuart Weitzman. With new designer finds every day. Get shopping.*

4. Something to help relax those sore muscles. And smell amazing in the process. Beam’s Fixer balm is made with organic beeswax and essential oils (think: lavender and eucalyptus) to soothe aches and pains. Plus, Skimm’rs get 35% off with a subscription purchase with code SKIMM.*

5. Light-dimming stickers for electronics that seem so bright at night. Aka your bedroom router and cable box. These stickers come in various sizes and are opaque, so they lessen the intensity of LED lights on appliances. Phew.

*PS: This is a sponsored post.

Skimm'rs

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

The plot thickens with...Erica S (TX). She started a book review podcast, Lit Sh*t, with two of her best friends. They’re celebrating the podcast’s one-year anniversary, and starting their fourth season this month.

Paw five...Kaleigh F (FL). She left her job in veterinary medicine after 10 years to focus on her pet sitting/dog walker business. Learn more.

(Some) Birthdays...Skimm Mom Barbi Zakin (NY), Cal Roberts (NY), Kathleen Bonnello (NY), theSkimm's Sara Allen (NY), Hanna Mahoney (IL), Manbeen Singh (NJ), Meryl Schreiber (NJ), Evan Lewellyn (VA), Jonathan Abelove (CA), Anne Brett (VT), Lucie Gareton (LDN), Deirdre Bardolf (NY), Mimi Mayberry-White (GA)

*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

Looking for other smart ways to spend your time?

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Skimm’d by Rashaan Ayesh, Maria del Carmen Corpus, Mariza Smajlaj, and Clem Robineau

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Daily Skimm: Sometimes who you are is enough

Labor Day Woes

The Story

Tell me.

Go on.

So, what now?

theSkimm

What’s ready to play defense…

Who’s being remembered…

Where things are still changing...

What people are watching…

Who’s standing strong…

Who’s getting an ‘adios’...

Older messages

Daily Skimm: You dream big and sleep late

Daily Skimm: Wake me up when September ends

Daily Skimm: Never touch my Bose

Daily Skimm: All the rumors are true

Daily Skimm: Into the thick of it

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