The Smile: 8/26

Court shuts down Trump’s “Alligator Alcatraz,” Illinois expands reproductive rights, and more wins for justice and democracy!

August 26, 2025

Hi friend,

Happy Tuesday! A huge environmental and human rights victory: a federal judge has ordered the immediate shutdown of the Trump-backed “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center in Florida’s fragile Everglades. Thanks to the fierce fight from environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe, the court ruled the facility must stop operations within 60 days.

And in more good news: Trump’s approval ratings continue to sink, Illinois has expanded access to contraception and medication abortion for college students, and a neurosurgeon in Denver performed a rare operation so a father could walk his daughter down the aisle.

Let’s dive into the good news! 💛

Today’s user-submitted photo comes from Jill T., who shared this pretty photo of hibiscus blossums from Hawaii! 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. 🌟

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