It’s September 2021. What’s going on in the world? Where are we?
I always think it’s fascinating (and yes, occasionally eerie), to see memoirs and biographies that include prescient information. As a result, I try to write down everything as it happens as a reflection on society now, compared to society then and later. Who could have known that this post would have symbolized the beginning of over 18 months of face masks and lockdowns? It’s all very surreal.
In the spirit of that post (and a few others since), I wanted to take today’s post to mark down what the world is doing now, in September 2021. So, here’s to you, Marvin Gaye.
September 2021 – World News
The COVID-19 pandemic rages on across the world. Three different vaccines exist, and while there are still many in the United States who refuse to take it, third world countries struggle to provide enough to their people. Joe Biden is halfway through his first year of presidency. He has doubled down on encouraging the American people to get vaccinated, and his administration has pulled the last US soldiers from Afghanistan. Much to the shock and horror of the western world, no specific actions have been taken to ensure the safety of the people of Afghanistan, who are now at the mercy of Taliban law. Disturbing images have been released of civilians clinging to US planes, begging for refuge. This comes right before September 11, 2021, twenty years after the deadliest terror attack in US History. Times are truly scary.
September 2021 – National News
The media has churned out reflection upon reflection regarding the twentieth anniversary of 9/11. Survivors, family members of lost loved ones, former journalists, and government officials have offered their anecdotes of what they remember from that day. I, personally, am holding my breath all weekend out of fear that the Taliban will strike US soil this weekend. It’s a terrifying thought, especially after watching some of the footage taken from that day. How could it have ever happened? How could it ever happen again?
In other news, Texas has established a new law that essentially makes all abortions after six weeks illegal. As well, a whistleblowing website was established so that civilians could report any persons receiving an abortion, driving someone to an abortion, or otherwise KNOWING of someone getting an abortion, to be arrested. This new law has not been received well by most. Online activists flooded the tip site with porn, spam, and other nonsense, until the tip site was pulled by its host. The Justice Department considers this law an attack on the Constitution, and has declared it will be pursuing a lawsuit.
September 2021 – Pop Culture News
The two biggest stories in more fun, light-hearted, less chilling news involve love, baby carriage… but no marriage! Kylie Jenner announced this week that she will be welcoming a new family member. This will be her second child after the birth of Stormi in 2018. Her announcement set off a flurry of “I knew it” declarations. Apparently, an eagle-eyed Tik-Tokker had suggested the pregnancy weeks ago based on Kylie’s fingernails and birthday posts.
NEXT, after much speculation, comedian John Mulaney confirmed that he is expecting a child with his girlfriend, actress Olivia Munn. This news has led to a response from the internet that has been… interesting. Mulaney’s stand-up frequently referenced his happy marriage and lack of desire for children. as a result, his divorce took many by surprise. What took many more by his surprise was when his new relationship with Olivia Munn became public a week after the divorce announcement. The pregnancy confirmation this past week led to many tweets and arguments. What does it mean to have a “parasocial relationship”? Is John Mulaney insane? Do we forgive Olivia Munn for previous fatphobic comments? Is this any of our business? It’s all very delicious and has a hint of spice.
September 2021 offers a lot of bleakness, but I still hold onto hope. I hope that the world will carry on, and that brightness lies ahead of us. It’s hard to stay optimistic when you are hyper-aware of terrorism, disease, and the status quo only serving the 1 percent. I guess that pot helps.