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As your trusted friend, we’re here with the “Reader’s Digest version” of social issues that impact the world around you. From gun violence statistics to the history behind the black power fist, and how to be an LGBTQ ally, our explainers will break it all down.

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What Is Critical Race Theory, and Why Is It Important to Understand?

Critical Race Theory has been alternately criticized and celebrated, but do you actually know what it is? Here, experts define this controversial concept and explain its real-world implications.

8 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch Coronavirus

Nope, the pandemic isn't over. Here are the places where experts say you're most likely to catch COVID-19.


55 BLM Charities (and Organizations) to Donate to Right Now

Here's how to donate to Black Lives Matter, along with 55 BLM charities and organizations that deserve your donor dollars...


The 10 Best Face Masks for COVID-19 Protection and Comfort

A new variant means it's time for a new mask.


Henry Louis Gates Jr.: The Lasting Impact of Alex Haley’s “Roots”

Alex Haley’s landmark book began in Reader’s Digest, where he worked as a senior editor. Its impact is still being...

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13 Air Travel Rules You Should Know Before Flying During the Pandemic

Getting ready to fly? Read these important rules before you head to the airport to make sure you're cleared for...


This Is the Word of the Year for 2021

This year's winner is a centuries-old throwback.


35 LGBTQ Books Everyone Should Read, Chosen by Queer Authors

We asked 16 queer authors to share the best LGBTQ books they've ever read. Here are their top picks.


Should You Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine and Flu Shot on the Same Day?

What's the safest COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine spacing per the CDC? Here's what experts say about those and other...


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13 Things That Are About to Get More Expensive

Get ready to shell out even more for some of your go-to items, thanks to shipping wars, labor issues, and...


How to Respond When Someone Says “All Lives Matter”

There is actually a productive, positive way to counter this statement that can help promote understanding and combat racism.

The 36 Best Books by Hispanic Authors You’ll Want to Read Right Now

From memoirs to Gothic horror novels, YA fiction to essay collections, these books by Hispanic authors feature fresh perspectives and...


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9 Things You May Not See in Theme Parks Anymore

Theme parks are open again, but you'll definitely notice some differences if you visit one right now.

What Anti-Racism Means and What It Means to Be Anti-Racist

It's not enough to get mad about racial inequality. You have to do something about it.


Colorism vs. Racism: What’s the Difference?

Even within minority communities, discrimination persists in unexpected ways. If you’ve never heard of colorism, here’s what you need to...


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Here’s Why Amazon Doesn’t Sell These 14 Things

Amazon has everything, right? Well, nearly everything. These 14 items can't be purchased from the retail giant.


20 Podcasts About Race You Need to Hear

Learning about race relations in America has to be a deliberate choice, and the responsibility falls on all of us....


What Does Non-Binary Mean? Understanding This LGBTQ Term and Why It’s Important

Gender isn’t always a straightforward issue, but being respectful about how someone identifies is. Here’s what you need to know.


What Is Implicit Bias? How to Recognize and Change Our Unconscious Stereotypes and Assumptions

Experts say we all have some bias, but there are ways to fight against it.


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8 Things You Won’t See in Hair Salons Anymore

Hair salons and barbershops are open again, but some of the pandemic precautions remain.


I Came Out After 20 Years of Marriage and Met the Love of My Life

Larry Best thought he had the perfect love and the perfect marriage, but until he found his husband and soul...


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3 Things You Won’t See in Costco Anymore

As the COVID-19 pandemic eases in the U.S., some stores are starting to ease restrictions—and Costco is no exception. But...

What Black Lives Matter Means: The History of the Movement

What is the true meaning of Black Lives Matter? Many are still muddling the powerful message of the global movement.


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Guns in America: 16 Charts You Need to See

While it’s clear that America has a gun violence problem, these staggering statistics shed new light on just how pervasive...


6 Ways to Be an LGBTQ Ally

Being an ally to an LGBTQ friend, family member, co-worker, acquaintance, or the population as a whole goes beyond acceptance.


What Exactly Is White Privilege?

Understanding the inherent privileges of being White in America isn't about guilt or fingerpointing. Rather it's the essential work that...


Meet Amanda Gorman: The History-Making Poet the World Is Still Talking About

The youngest-ever inaugural poet exploded onto the national stage when she spoke at President Joe Biden's inauguration. Here are some...


Latino, Hispanic and Latinx: What the Terms Mean and How to Use Them

Not sure when to use Hispanic vs. Latino or Latino vs. Latinx? We asked the experts what each means and...