Could the actions within the Israel-Palestine conflict be classified as genocide against Palestinians? Social media has become a primary source for news consumption. As we view the footage emerging from Gaza, it is clear that the situation has persisted for far too long and has escalated beyond acceptable limits. Over the past year, 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, and each day, 10 children undergo amputations. While yes, 1,200 Israelis lost their lives on October 7, it is important to recognize that this has been ongoing long before October 7.
Why are so many companies firing Gen-Z employees? Many are concerned about the growing trend of Gen-Z employees being terminated. In a survey of 996 companies, employers cited a lack of motivation, inadequate performance, poor communication skills, and insufficient professionalism as key reasons behind this issue. While this presents a significant challenge, some companies have noted the advantages of hiring Gen-Z employees, highlighting their willingness to take risks and explore new approaches, rather than confining themselves to traditional expectations.
Should everyone go to college? Many of us were raised with the belief that “You need a college degree to succeed.” While college may indeed be the right path for many careers, some of the most successful business leaders did not pursue higher education. Young adults should have the freedom to decide whether college is the right choice for them, without facing judgment. Although choosing not to attend college can be a significant risk, everyone deserves the opportunity to explore their own creativity and potential.
Article for Topic 1: This article discusses the various definitions of genocide through legal, social scientific, and conventional lenses, as explained by Alexander Hinton, a genocide prevention expert. It highlights the U.N. Convention’s legal definition, which includes acts intended to destroy a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group in whole or in part. The article explores whether the current situation in Gaza meets the criteria for genocide. Juicy quote: “Segal believes that Israeli forces are completing three genocidal acts, including, “killing, causing serious bodily harm, and measures calculated to bring about the destruction of the group.” He points to the mass levels of destruction and total siege of basic necessities—like water, food, fuel, and medical supplies—as evidence.” https://time.com/6334409/is-whats-happening-gaza-genocide-experts/
Article for Topic 3: This article explores the idea that college may not be the right path for everyone and highlights the inequities within the educational system. It contrasts two students: one with strong academic abilities and another with less interest in traditional academics, illustrating the system’s uneven approach to different types of learners. Juicy Quote: “That second student, to be clear, has done nothing wrong. He probably clawed his way through his town’s standard college-oriented curriculum, though it neither targeted his interests and abilities nor prepared him for work force success. “https://www.nytimes.com/2019/01/16/learning/should-everyone-go-to-college.html
Dawali, also known as Warak Enab, is a Middle Eastern cultural dish commonly referred to as stuffed grape leaves. It originated during the Ottoman Empire and is most well-known in Palestine. However, variations of the dish can be found across other Middle Eastern countries, with each region adding its own unique touch. Due to the time and effort required to prepare Dawali, it is typically served during family gatherings or special occasions. The dish symbolizes the perseverance of the land of Palestine and its heritage.
Ingredients:
The Broth:
4 cups chicken stock
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
The Filling:
1 pound jasmine rice (or Basmati rice)
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
¼ cup melted butter
1½ teaspoons ground allspice
1 teaspoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 tablespoon salt (Depends on how salty you’d like your food)
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients listed under “Filling” and mix well until you see all ingredients incorporated.
Prepare the Broth: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken stock and the rest of the ingredients listed under “Broth.” Mix thoroughly and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: Clean the chicken and season it to your liking. Place it onto a porcelain baking dish.
Assemble and Cook:
If using jarred grape leaves, drain them and gently pull them apart. Place the grape leaves in a medium bowl and pour boiling water over them. Let them sit for 15 minutes, then drain. Cut out the central stem from each leaf.
Lay out as many grape leaves as you can on your kitchen table. Place about two teaspoons of filling in the center of each grape leaf (portion may vary based on the size of each leaf). Make sure the central stem side is facing you.
Fold the sides of each grape leaf inwards to cover the filling. Roll the grape leaf away from you, but avoid rolling too tightly.
Repeat until all grape leaves are filled and rolled.
Arrange the sliced tomatoes and potatoes at the bottom of a pot. Layer the stuffed grape leaves in the pot, preferably in concentric circles.
Place a plate slightly smaller in diameter than the pot on top of the grape leaves to weigh them down, this is to make sure they don’t float when adding the liquid.
Pour the prepared broth over the grape leaves.
Place the pot on high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 2 hours. Add the lemon juice five minutes before removing the pot from heat.
After turning off the heat, let the pot rest, covered, for 20 minutes.
Invert a serving platter over the pot and carefully flip the pot to put the grape leaves onto the platter. Gently shake the pot to release the grape leaves, then remove the pot carefully.
Cook the Chicken: While the Dawali is cooking, preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Place the chicken in the middle tray of the oven and bake for about 1 hour.
Serving: That’s all! Serve the Dawali with plain yogurt and the delicious baked chicken on the side! Enjoy!
