The Smile: 5/20

Hi friend,

Happy Tuesday! We start with a powerful reminder that the rule of law still matters: A federal judge just ruled that Elon Musk’s DOGE-led takeover of the U.S. Institute of Peace was not only unlawful—it was a “gross usurpation of power.” It’s a major win for democratic institutions and the people who defend them.

👉 Add your name to applaud this victory and protect independent institutions.

There’s more to smile about, too: new protections for victims of AI-generated deepfakes, endangered species bouncing back, and students graduating with their biggest supporters by their side.

Let’s dive into some good news together. 💛

Judge rules DOGE takeover of US Institute of Peace was unlawful and 'gross usurpation of power'

Victims of explicit deepfakes will now be able to take legal action against people who create them

Endangered Species Day: Three animals on the path to recovery

New Jersey Democrats vow to fight Trump in final gubernatorial debate

This LA school is planting trees to ‘supercharge’ childhood development

Watch: Student and emotional support dog attend graduation ceremony together

Freed from ICE custody, Palestinian activist Mohsen Mahdawi graduates from Columbia to cheers

NJ Transit strike comes to an end with agreement between union and managers

Mom of Minnesota teen diagnosed with rare bone cancer creates support system for other "cancer parents"

House Republicans want to stop states from regulating AI. More than 100 organizations are pushing back

Today’s user-submitted photo was sent in by Bob M., who shared this sunset photo from Valparaiso, IN! If you want the chance to have your photo featured, reply to this email 😄

Thank you for reading, and we hope these articles shine a light on your day.

In solidarity,

Emily from The Smile

P.S. Know someone who could use a dose of good news? Forward this email and encourage them to subscribe to The Smile. Let’s spread the positivity together. 🌟