The Smile: 5/20

Hi friend,

Happy Wednesday! Senate Democrats just pushed forward a major war powers vote aimed at limiting Donald Trump’s ability to continue military action in Iran without congressional approval — a significant stand for accountability and constitutional oversight.

👏 Applaud the lawmakers fighting to ensure decisions about war and peace aren’t made without checks and balances.

There’s more encouraging news today: voting rights advocates are organizing across the South, courts are protecting immigrants from unlawful arrests, families are winning support for NICU leave, and communities everywhere are proving that compassion and persistence can create real change.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Senate approves war powers vote to rein in Trump on Iran

Senate Republicans fume over Trump backing Paxton in Texas race

Hakeem Jeffries: At least 7 blue states could redistrict by 2028

Brother, sister share special bond over basketball

Tiny patients, big fight: NICU parents win leave in 2 states and push for more

This ‘daughter of the Deep South’ is fighting for Black voting rights through storytelling

Federal agents can’t make arrests in N.Y. immigration courts, judge rules

Greenland Gives Trump Envoy the Literal Middle Finger

Salt Water Restores Native Queensland Ecosystems After Dozens of Tidal Gates Removed

Democratic district attorneys vow to prosecute federal agents who target voting sites

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Darlin M., who shared this cute photo of their cat, Chiya! 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. 🌟