The Smile: 8/22

Hi friend,

Happy Friday! In a big win for immigrant rights, a federal judge has ruled that the State Department cannot use Donald Trump’s latest travel ban as a reason to deny visas. This decision is an important check on Trump’s overreach, ensuring that families and communities aren’t torn apart by arbitrary and discriminatory policies.

✍️ Add your name to applaud this ruling and stand up against Trump’s cruel travel ban!

And in more good news: California Democrats are advancing their redistricting plan to counter GOP schemes in Texas, the White House has restored critical CDC research funds, and Albuquerque is standing strong against DOJ threats to its immigrant protections.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

State Department can’t deny visas based on Trump travel ban, judge rules

Oregon already sued Trump 36 times this presidency. And there’s more to come.

‘The City will not give in to bullying:’ Albuquerque defends immigrant policies after DOJ threat

Dogs lost during wildfire burning near Athol reunited with family

Alina Habba ‘unlawfully’ working as US attorney in New Jersey, judge rules

750 HHS employees send signed letter to RFK Jr. asking him to stop spreading misinformation

What it means to have a woman in a wheelchair featured on U.S. currency

Elon Musk must face lawsuit claiming he ran illegal $1 million election lottery

White House restores stalled CDC research funds

California legislators pass redistricting plans to put a Democratic-drawn map before voters

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Amy D., who shared this adorable photo of her cat, Phoebe, and her dog, Seamus! 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. 🌟