Harvard's International Student Victory, California's Green Grants & Connecticut's Gun Safety Progress

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of inspiring stories that highlight resilience, progress, and community action across the nation. We start with a significant legal victory as a federal judge extends the order preventing the Trump administration from revoking Harvard University's ability to enroll international students. This decision not only safeguards the academic journeys of thousands but also reaffirms America's commitment to diversity and the value of global talent in education. Next, we celebrate California's proactive environmental leadership with nearly $60 million in new grants aimed at protecting critical habitats. This funding will preserve vital ecosystems and endangered species, showcasing the state's dedication to conservation even amidst federal cutbacks. In gun safety news, Connecticut has passed House Bill 7042, empowering individuals and municipalities to hold gun manufacturers accountable for irresponsible practices. This legislation marks a pivotal step towards promoting responsibility within the industry and enhancing community safety. Maine lawmakers are also making strides in mental health support by approving grants to hire licensed professionals in schools, addressing the urgent need for accessible mental health resources for students. Listeners will be inspired by Missoula, Montana, which has officially recognized the LGBTQ Pride flag as an official city flag, ensuring its display in public schools and government buildings as a symbol of inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ community. Finally, we discuss the defeat of a proposal in Louisiana to end the addition of fluoride to drinking water, a move supported by health experts who emphasize the public health benefits of fluoridation in reducing dental decay. Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of hope, activism, and the relentless pursuit of justice! If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/judge-extends-order-blocking-trump-administration-revoking-harvards-ab-rcna209689 https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/despite-doge-california-habitat-60-million-grants-20347752.php https://www.courant.com/2025/05/31/ct-senate-passes-controversial-gun-safety-bill-after-11-hour-marathon-debate/ https://www.yahoo.com/news/maine-lawmakers-preliminary-approval-student-182014281.html https://www.montanarightnow.com/missoula/missoula-recognizes-pride-flag-as-an-official-city-flag/article_1efa00d1-a050-4ffd-9318-deeab3a77d5f.html https://lailluminator.com/briefs/attempt-to-remove-fluoride-from-louisiana-drinking-water-goes-flat/? utm_source=www.readthesmile.com&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=the-smile-5-29 More good daily news for democracy on Facebook , Bluesky , and Instagram . Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support .