10/31/2024

JRB,

            I met ten 1st year doctoral students yesterday & we had a brave conversation about the role of theory in educational research. We were unpacking a chapter by Bettina Love (BL), called “Theory over Gimmicks: Find your North Star.” Her audience is teachers (Ts) rather than researchers. She argues that theory can help people to heal. She wants Ts to be thinking about how racial injustice is perpetuated by educational, financial & legal systems that have a history of discrimination.

            You might give that some thought. If you can come up with something that helps explain 45’s popularity that doesn’t position his supporters in a negative manner, I’d appreciate it. 45’s ads attacking KDH popped up during breaks of the World Series & I found them profoundly troubling.

Speaking of theories, do you have one regarding what will happen in Burma as the various armies continue to win their battles with the junta. According to the Irrawaddy, ‘Bamar People’s Liberation Army (BPLA) is poised to move on to central Myanmar after fighting in Karen & northern Shan states alongside allied ethnic armies.”  The BPLA plans to “root out the fascist military” & plans to fight with the other armies in the area “in unity & mutual respect.” They anticipate intensified fighting now that the rainy season is ending. You might ask Jake Sullivan for his theory about how this will all end & whether there is any way we can ease the suffering there.

            I’m sorry that some media outlets keep getting criticizing you for your quirks. I’m sure you know that Newsweek has a whole article about how you “bit” several babies at your Halloween event the other night. It’s clear that you were being silly, but some folks thought it was weird.

Unfortunately, that kind of thing makes it hard for KDH. According to Edward Helmore writing in the G, her campaign is having a slow-mo breakup with you after the “garbage” comment, & I’m sure the baby biting will make that worse. Too bad!

            BYBS,