Courts Stand Up for Immigrants, California Protects Students, and a New Hope for Student Loans

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen presents a compelling array of stories that showcase progress and innovation in the fight for democracy and social justice. First, a federal appeals court has made a landmark ruling that reinforces the principles of humane immigration policy and due process, stating that President Trump's attempt to expedite deportations of Venezuelan migrants through the Alien Enemies Act is unconstitutional. This pivotal decision marks a significant victory for advocates fighting for a just immigration system, highlighting the need for policies grounded in facts rather than fear. In California, lawmakers have passed the SAFE Act SB98, which mandates that K-12 schools and state universities notify families when immigration agents are present on campus. This legislation aims to transform schools into safe havens for learning, ensuring that students can focus on their education without the looming threat of deportation. In labor news, over 12,000 Stater Brothers union workers in Southern California ratified a new three-year contract, securing substantial wage increases and improved healthcare benefits. This achievement reflects a growing wave of solidarity among workers, emphasizing the importance of fair labor practices and safe working conditions. Additionally, a compassionate initiative by medical student Steffi Casimir in Oakland has led to the establishment of a free podiatry clinic for unhoused individuals, providing vital foot care to prevent serious health complications. This grassroots effort demonstrates how simple acts of kindness can profoundly impact those facing homelessness. We also spotlight an innovative student loan program in Hawaii that eliminates interest and fees through a Pay it Forward model, supporting low-income students while fostering a sustainable funding cycle for future learners. This approach is gaining traction across the nation as a viable solution to the student debt crisis. Finally, a recent survey reveals a growing consensus among Americans in favor of affordable housing, with 63% viewing it positively and a majority supporting new developments in their communities. This shift in perception is crucial in addressing the housing affordability crisis and promoting community stability. 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. More about today's stories: https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5483251-appeals-court-rules-trump-cant-use-alien-enemies-act-to-swiftly-deport-venezuelans/ https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/02/california-immigration-enforcement-schools-families https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2025/08/15/12000-union-workers-ratify-new-labor-contract-with-stater-bros/ https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/free-podiatry-practice-for-homeless https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/student-debt-pay-it-forward https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/affordable-housing-viewed-positively-poll https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/UadjngGQ4ddwHL850yH2lujNnqnffdnMUKGiTduI1SAkzd3gO3JeWikPBUYvHjqRpb3wl-6co5uiwT2a3QuBNyAA4S7xmWP5I49TUcuQe-Ki-wjrjbqOjlxWJgFCqEHK_7rOpyH81qxI_SjP42cp9EeOE6f7 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support .