Bans and fees on single-use plastic bags are being implemented in multiple states. Columnist Kayla Mayer argues that a bigger issue with plastic lies within packaging, which makes up 40% of plastic produced.
For tip-earning positions, employers are allowed to pay less than minimum wage if the tips received would ultimately equal minimum age earnings. Columnist Maddie Peters argues that because tipping is not a required gesture, businesses should not rely on this added income when paying tip-earning employees.
A study by Northeastern University senior Alex Frandsen found that female candidates were described more negatively in the media than male candidates. Columnist Kayla Mayer argues that the solution to this is that voters need to consider whether they dislike a candidate because their behavior is violating gender norms or because their platform is unpalatable.
Participation trophies are rooted in the idea that “everyone is a winner.” Columnist Maddie Peters argues that society should teach kids how to bounce back after failure and to realize they will not always be the best at something.
The evil deeds of sadists like Jeffrey Dahmer and Ted Bundy are encapsulated in popular documentaries, movies and TV shows. Columnist Kayla Mayer argues that while it’s natural to be curious about their motivations, the curiosity becomes dangerous when media producers skim over the victims and the brutality of the crimes.
Homelessness isn’t a problem isolated to other countries or states. Columnist Kayla Mayer argues that to understand how we can end the issue, we must understand why people become homeless.
Last November, Woodchurch High School in northwestern England announced a clothing restriction in an attempt to “poverty-proof” the school. Columnist Maddie Peters argues that wealth disparities are shown in many ways other than students’ clothing.
Felony disenfranchisement is the exclusion from voting due to the conviction of a criminal offense. Columnist Maddie Peters argues that indefinitely withholding a person’s right to vote also withholds their full citizenship.
In the United States, 555 measles cases have been reported in 2019. Columnist Kayla Mayer argues that education can help resolve vaccine hesitancy, promoting a healthy community.
The cost of living continues to rise as the minimum wage remains the same. Columnist Kayla Mayer argues that low wages hurt both businesses and employees.
The coffee industry is built on a complex supply chain, moving from farmers, traders, processors, exporters, roaster, retailers and finally to consumers. Columnist Maddie Peters argues that understanding where our coffee comes from allows us to take better care of the aftermath.
A liberal arts education is designed to expose students to other subjects: culture, history, human interaction, the physical world and more. Columnist Maddie Peters argues that a liberal arts education is valuable to finding new interests, learning various disciplines and becoming a more well-rounded person.
People who struggle with mental health issues can benefit from going to regular talk therapy, and it should be widely accessible. Opinions Editor Abby Sliva argues that the St. Thomas Counseling and Psychological Services is not as accessible or effective as it should be.
Technology is one of the biggest distractions in life. New tech products are created every day, and people have come to depend on them. Columnist Maddie Peters argues that the consequences of technology can have devastating impacts on a student’s learning and academic performance.
Taxing the wealthiest people in America more is a controversial method. Opinions Editor Abby Sliva argues taxing wealthy Americans could provide positive outcomes.
