Thursday, August 31, 2017
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Sunday, August 27, 2017
WHAT IS THE CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN or CEDAW?
Friday, August 25, 2017
Bringing literacy and empowering women
This young woman is bringing literacy to her village, and empowering women, who once could not read or write, to be self-reliant.
Join the campaign to end world hunger here: http://wehavethepowerto.com/ and for every sign-up, UPLIFT will donate $1 to The Hunger
Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Child marriage : Gender inequality and Cultural Norms
In some cultures, child marriage for girls is common. This supports discrimination and the abuse of girls and women, treating them as commodities that can be traded for cash, goods or status. The expectation that a girl’s future lies with marriage and motherhood limits opportunities and can lead to the risk of serious abuses. In Niger, 77% of women aged 20 to 49 were married before the age of 18 compared to 2% of men.
Every year, millions of girls around the world become brides before the age of 18. It is also known as early forced marriage.
Girls who are required to enter into marriage at an early age are at greater risk of domestic violence and abuse. They are less likely to be able to escape poverty. Those having children too young have a significantly increased risk of health complications, death in childbirth and infant mortality.
Child marriage is prevalent in communities where poverty is widespread, birth and death rates are high and access to education and healthcare is low. It can be seen as a strategy for short-term financial security, often taking place in exchange for goods or resources that support the survival of other family members. Girls from the poorest households are at greatest risk of becoming child brides.
Monday, August 21, 2017
"A Woman's Place"
"A Woman's Place" by singer-songwriter Sara Thomsen
I am a woman, and my place is in the home
And my home is the whole wide world
We are world shapers, we are change makers
We are potters spinning clay, we are dreamers of a new day
We are asking questions, we are opening up the door
We are searching, finding answers,
We are wisdom seeking more
Rabbi, singer, teacher, professor, poet, preacher
Driving buses, styling hair
We are everywhere
We are women
We are sweeping the hearth
We are dreaming in the dark
We are weaving at the loom
We are the rhythms of the moon
We are world shapers, we are change makers
We are tenders of the earth, we are women giving birth
We are packing lunches,
We are sewing the clothes you wear
We are sleeping on park benches,
We are kneeling down in prayer
Doctor, dancer, scientist, carpenter and journalist
Telling stories, rocking chairs
We are everywhere
We are women
We are stirring the pot
We are keeping the fire hot
We are holding a child's hand
We are the rhythms of the land
We are world shapers, we are change makers
We are potters spinning clay, we are dreamers of a new day
We are laughing, crying, we are taking the time to play
We are singing, we are sighing,
We are making our own way
Politician, volunteer, refugee, and engineer
In the streets and on the air
We are everywhere
We are world shapers, we are change makers
We are potters spinning clay, we are dreamers of a new day
We are rule breakers, we are home makers
We are healers of the earth
We are mid-wives at the birth
We are women, and our place is in the home
And our home is the whole wide world
http://www.sarathomsen.com
(c) 2006 Sara Thomsen. http://www.sarathomsen.com
(Everything Changes CD)
Photography credits:
Rick Lewis: http://www.rjlewisphotography.com
Heriberto Rodriguez: http://heribertorodriguez.photoshelte...
Julia Cheng: http://www.juliachengphoto.com
Bob Fitch: http://www.bobfitchphoto.com
Dave Blumenkrantz: http://www.daveblumenkrantz.com
Andrew Kielbowicz: http://www.goingdigital.ca
Nancy Siesel: http://www.nancysiesel.com
Helen Mongan-Rallis; Mary Engels; Doug Fairchild; James Gensheimer; R. V. Spencer; Dave Ballard; Kathy Sloane; friends and family; personal collection; various online sources
Thanks to http://www.wunrn.com
Saturday, August 19, 2017
FACING THE REALITY OF END OF LIFE PLANNING 7/7
Planning for one’s end of life expenses is, certainly, depressing and stressful in and of itself. Trying to plan for what happens after death is even more stressful when funds are limited and focused on providing the living with necessities.
Arranging these discussions as early as possible can take some of the stress away from having to do so when the situation requires it. It cannot be assumed loved ones will automatically know one’s wishes or how final expenses are to be paid for. Preparation is key and having certain steps in place will ease the burden on surviving family members.
Completing steps such as health care directives including a living will which will expressly detail your wishes and completing a durable power of attorney for health care, which will appoint a trusted someone to determine health care in the case of incapacitation, will lessen the stress and alleviate the emotional toll on loved ones.
Next, consult with a legal representative to determine whether a durable power of attorney for finances, a living trust or a will is most appropriate for the circumstances. Ensuring finances are in order not only protects loved ones left behind, it also ensures wishes are respected.
Working with a hospice and social worker can help maintain the legal, ethical and moral expectations which can be missed when preparation is not completed ahead of time. It can also help to prevent unnecessary life-prolonging treatments which were not desired but implemented due to a family member’s inability to let go.
Reading or hearing an individual’s wishes in their own words can help those left behind to cope and process their guilt and sadness. Planning for end of life is not only a kindness to loved ones, it is also a benefit for those working to aid survivors through the entire process.
When it comes to retirement, pre-retirees have many decisions to make and a new world of opportunity to consider. While many choose to stop working altogether, there are many others who continue to work part-time to maintain a sense of purpose and supplemental income for their golden years. Preparation is paramount to preventing stress when planning for retirement and especially when it’s finally time to enjoy life.
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
Thursday, August 17, 2017
KEEPING UP WITH INFLATION AND THE COST OF LIVING 6/7
Hoping as the cost of living and inflation rise, salaries and Social Security benefits will increase as well is just wishful thinking. The Social Security’s annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is an increased benefit which is provided monthly.
Unfortunately, there was no COLA for 2015 and only a 0.3 percent increase for 2016. Those receiving Social Security benefits were left to fight inflation while receiving minimal or no adjustment for the rising costs.
For the most recent 2017 benefit year, award benefits increased by 0.3 percent, the same as 2016.
Attempting to keep up with inflated costs on a fixed retirement fund budget negatively affects the purchasing power of retirees. When planning began, their financial roadmap may have aimed for one specific amount which would have addressed the mortgage/living situation, debt, pending auto loans, medical expenses, possible unexpected expenses and to maintain a certain lifestyle.
Sadly, inflation is causing as many as three out of five middle-class new retirees to outlive their retirement funds if they attempt to maintain pre-retirement style of living. Pre-retirees will have to factor in an annual inflation rate of about 3% to ensure they do not outlive their retirement funds.
Researching the Consumer Price Index will provide additional information as to how much consumers are paying for goods and services now versus how much was paid for those same goods or services in years past. For those who prefer a more precise look at inflation, the U.S. Inflation Calendar uses the latest data to determine a cumulative rate of inflation for any date between 1913 to 2017.
Pre-retirees should also keep an eye on investments when gauging how inflation will affect their retirement lifestyles. 401ks and IRA’s are both examples of investment vehicles susceptible to the effects of an increased cost of living can have on retirement. Verifying value and all terms with the investment company or your agent can provide much-needed insight to protect your retirement fund as much as possible.
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
CONTINUING MORTGAGE OR DEBT PAYMENTS 5/7
As most pre-retirees plan for a future with a reduced and fixed income, those who are homeowners face the harsh reality where, just because they retire, does not mean their mortgage or debt will go away. Sadly, they will have to find a way to continue to pay higher mortgages on an even more limited income.
With the fluctuating housing markets, the equity in their homes rises and falls every couple of years. Many homeowners have borrowed against the equity in their home for any number of reasons including vacations, home or auto repairs, medical expenses or to supplement their monthly income, just to name a few.
Some turn to newer financial vehicles to prevent defaulting on their home loans. Reverse mortgages are one such method which provides greater financial security for seniors who have been allowed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Rather than paying their loan payment every month, qualified homeowners are allowed to convert a portion of the equity in the home to cash and halt payments on the loan until such a time where the home is no longer used as a primary residence or they fail to meet the obligations of the mortgage.
Ongoing debt from sources such as credit cards, medical expenses or financially assisting adult children can play a hefty role in increasing stress levels of pre-retirees and those already in retirement. Applying for consolidation loans, reduced monthly payments and using home equity to pay off other debt are all valid methods or addressing ongoing debt.
Working with a professional financial advisor to plan for and pay off ongoing debt can alleviate much of the unnecessary stress experienced by older adults. Understanding how variable interest rates, fees, and payment timetables can be adjusted and used to benefit the pre-retiree is just one way a financial advisor can work within the scope of an individual’s situation to provide relief they did not believe possible.
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
Sunday, August 13, 2017
THE INS AND OUTS OF SOCIAL SECURITY 4/7
How secure will Social Security be down the line?
For the Baby Boomer generation, Social Security and pensions were touted as entitlements and assurances when it came time for retirement.
Sadly, the reality is both of these former benefits are on the financial endangered species list and those planning their exit from the workforce are left to almost fully fund their retirements.
While Social Security benefits were not intended to fund retirement fully, they were created to provide much needed income support for seniors, especially those with a limited income. Sadly, the amount of these benefits has decreased due to the increasing number of individuals submitting their claims for benefits.
While many falsely believe benefits cannot be claimed prior to the government set retirement age, which is currently 67, this is not accurate. To receive the full amount of Social Security, it is best to withhold a claim until the full retirement age has been reached.
However, if circumstances necessitate submitting a claim due to financial hardship or early retirement, a lesser amount will be awarded for the duration of the claim.
The online Social Security Benefits Planner (SSBP) can provide information regarding the number of credits an individual has earned and whether it is sufficient for benefits to apply.
Credits are earned based on covered earnings per calendar year and averaged out over the duration of an individual’s working years to determine the amount of monthly payment they are entitled to. The minimum number of credits is based on the birth year, with those born in 1929 or later necessitating 40 credits to qualify.
According to the SSBP, the amount of the monthly benefit can increase for each year a delay for the request or application for benefits is delayed with the highest amount awarded at the age of 70. While there is no one age which is best for all to apply for Social Security, individual circumstances should be considered including health, personal finances, and family longevity.
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
Friday, August 11, 2017
MEETING RISING HEALTH INSURANCE COSTS 3/7
Many pre-and post-retirees half-heartedly joke they can’t afford to die due to inflated funeral costs, yet they can’t afford to live because of increasing medical costs and decreasing medical coverage for seniors. The impact on retirees due to rising out-of-pocket expenses for premiums and prescription drugs is palpable.
The inability to rely on a consistent plan with set premiums and costs makes it difficult for pre-retirees to plan for potential future medical costs effectively. Relying on Medicare to supplement medical expenditures means even the most conservative and well-intentioned estimations will most likely fall short of actual figures.
There are government resources available online provide a breakdown of costs associated with Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D for those in the pre-planning stages of retirement. These resources illustrate the costs for varying levels of coverage and financial status.
To ensure adequate funds are set-aside, and interpretation of plan requirements are met, it is highly advisable to review the MyMedicare.gov official site to educate oneself on the ins and outs or Medicare coverage before enrolling.
Supplemental plans are also available from companies such as Scan and MetLife to provide yet another level of coverage for those needing medical coverage at retirement but whose medical need is greater than what can be covered by Medicare.
Supplemental plans are also for those who may have developed medical conditions and will need to see specialists, have frequent medical exams run, or who need assistance with increasing prescription costs.
Monthly Medicare premiums vary state to state and year to year.
In order to help mitigate rising costs, a Medigap policy known as Part F is available to cover Part A and Part B co-insurance and deductibles, as well as other services. Speaking with a financial or health insurance professional can provide you with a roadmap of what services are necessary to meet unexpected health care costs.
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
Wednesday, August 9, 2017
DEPLETING THE RETIREMENT FUND 2/7
Of all seven on this list, completely depleting a limited retirement fund is the underlying fear causing the most stress for pre-retirees.
Determining how much money is enough to last through retirement so retirees can enjoy the golden years is an estimated guess, at best. The dollar, over time, loses its value, and living off more than interest depletes the nest egg principal.
Unexpected expenses, rising healthcare costs, vanishing pensions and Social Security benefits are all factors to consider when attempting to calculate just how much is enough to live comfortably for the rest of one’s life.
As far as major life transitions go, retirement is one of the most life altering. It affects an individual’s finances, self-esteem, self-identity, and eveninterpersonal relationships.
Unfortunately for some retirees, retirement is a choice made for them and not by them. Health issues, familial responsibilities and changing work environments are all factors when someone is forced to enter retirement earlier than planned.
There are also those who have come to the realization they are unable to retire when planned due to a lack of proper planning and saving.
Prior generations were able to retire with the safety net of a company or government pension to supplement their retirement savings in years past. Currently, these same pensions are on the verge of extinction due to declining benefits packages offered to employees.
For most pre-retirees, their identity as provider for their children and sometimes even senior parents is a part of how they identify themselves. However, retirement generally brings with it a change in financial status which can affect their ability to act as monetary safety net for grown children.
Having this conversation early on with adult children to cut the cord of financial dependence can limit unexpected expenses and protect limited retirement funds.
Funding an emergency fund early on in the planning stages will aid in ensuring unexpected expenses are not used to deplete the retirement fund and it can be utilized for the retirees to maintain some semblance of the lifestyle which they enjoyed during employment.
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
Monday, August 7, 2017
EXAMPLES OF STRESSFUL FINANCIAL CONCERNS FOR AGEING WOMEN : THE FEAR OF UNFORESEEN EXPENSES 1/7
Planning for the known is possible, but full preparation for the unknown and unexpected is challenging and at many times, impossible. From illness to major home or automotive repairs, unforeseen costs can negatively impact the limited income of a retiree. When the unexpected illness of death of a partner creates a chasm in retirement plans, the surviving partner must re-strategize and prepare both mentally and financially for their future.
Major repairs to the home or vehicles are stressful enough when pre-retirees are still working. Yet, due to the full income of employment, these expenses can be managed and the repairs completed. However, when one is on the verge of leaving a career and the comfort of a steady, reliable paycheck, unexpected costs cause increased stress when the same amount is now expected out of a much stricter budget.
According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, 49% of American workers plan to delay retirement due to a feeling of being unable to afford retirement.
They lack confidence in the size of their retirement fund and its ability to take care of most expected retirement costs, let alone the unexpected costs which are sure to arise in the future.
Finding a professional financial advisor is one step towards a secure retirement. These individuals will help pre-retirees to develop a plan for what they envision their retirement to look like as well as find a way to prepare for unplanned occurrences.
Together with the pre-retirees, the advisor will implement steps to increase health care coverage and increase savings goals from the six months of living expenses recommended for employed workers to 12 to 18 months.
For those able and willing, they can facilitate the creation of a separate fund for family trips, destination weddings, and other family fun events.
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
https://www.bestliferates.org/
http://www.wunrn.com
Thursday, August 3, 2017
ROSIKA SCHWIMMER, PACIFIST AND FEMINIST
A founder of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and the pre-World War II Campaign for World Government, Rosika Schwimmer was born in Budapest on this date in 1877. Schwimmer founded the Hungarian Feminist Association in 1897. She also helped to found the Hungarian National Council of Women, among other women’s organizations.
When Hungary gained independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, Schwimmer became ambassador to Switzerland, but when Mikós Horthy’s government was ousted by communists, she fled to the U.S. Due to her lifelong pacifism, however, she was branded a socialist in the U.S. and was denied citizenship in the 1929 U.S. Supreme Court case, United States v. Schwimmer. In 1935, Schwimmer and historian Mary Beard formed the World Centre for Women’s Archives, and Schwimmer was awarded a World Peace Prize in 1937. She died in New York in 1948.
“I have no sense of nationalism, only a cosmic consciousness of belonging to the human family.” —Rosika Schwimmer
End It Now: Understanding and Preventing Child Abuse
Child Abuse is much more common than we think. The statistics are staggering, with 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys being molested by the age of 18. "End It Now" gives us an inside look at this silent killer, and the dramatic effect it has on a person's life as they mature into adulthood. The video seeks to raise awareness and train audiences how to respond if they witness abuse, or if they're experiencing it themselves.
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Measures to fight harmful traditional practices 15/15
111. In the broader context of the protection of women’s rights, Australia reported on national action against female genital mutilation (FGM), through multi-sector efforts and collaboration. At the international level, Australia was supporting a number of resolutions and agreements that encouraged coordinated action on FGM and support for the women, girls and communities affected. A recent review of FGM laws found that Australia had a comprehensive legal framework in place to criminalize FGM.
112. Belgium reported on its holistic approach to the problem of FGM, with particular attention to the prevention and comprehensive care for victims. Several civil society organizations working in the field contributed to the elimination of FGM by preventive measures, awareness-raising, training and facilitation among targeted communities in Belgium. Several publications were developed on various aspects of FGM, a brochure on professional secrecy and a guide for the professions concerned
https://www.unodc.org/documents/justice-and-prison-reform/UNODC.CCPCJ.EG.8.2014.2-English.pdf
https://www.unodc.org/documents/justice-and-prison-reform/UNODC.CCPCJ.EG.8.2014.2-English.pdf
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