The Taliban, an ultraconservative political and religious group, has taken control of Afghanistan and established a government with strict laws and harsh punishments for people who disobey them. The takeover means the freedom of Afghanis, especially women, will be sharply restricted. U.S. troops had been fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan for the past 20 years, but recently left, prompting a Taliban takeover. Listen to learn why U.S. troops first went to Afghanistan and what the future of Afghanistan might look like under Taliban rule.
Story Length: 3:31
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November 23, 2021
2:45
Wearing masks has become part of many students’ everyday lives and routines, including at school. Kids have all kinds of feelings about wearing masks throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. In this audio story, a teacher asks her class of elementary students to share their thoughts and feelings about wearing masks. Listen to hear their thoughtful, honest, and relatable answers.
Read MoreNovember 16, 2021
4:06
World leaders have gathered in Glasgow, Scotland, to talk about solutions to problems related to climate change. Many countries agreed to produce less of the harmful gases, like carbon and methane, that warm the planet. Trees help combat global warming, and many countries also pledged to slow the pace of deforestation, or cutting down trees. Although the leaders made important promises, some people are angry that they are not doing more. Listen to hear about progress – and problems – at the recent international climate summit.
Read MoreNovember 9, 2021
3:10
An Asian-American superhero is fighting to save the world! “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” is the first Marvel movie to feature an Asian hero, a man bravely fighting crime while struggling with family issues. The action-packed film also has an Asian director and mostly Asian cast, and was released in theatres to rave reviews. Listen to hear more about the Marvel franchise and how a young reporter responded to seeing her identity reflected on screen.
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